Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey Top Questions

What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

Brooke

When transitioning into college, continue to work hard as you always have, but realize that classroom learning is a small fraction of what you're there to learn. The most important part of college is experiencing new activities, meeting diverse people, and supporting others in the achievement of their goals, especially when they begin to falter. Learn the skills you need to be successful in your career, but also learn patience, compassion, and leadership. These skills will take you further in life than anything you can learn in a book. Learn to stand your ground when you need to, but be kind and respectful when you do it. Take the time to study abroad because nothing can replace the knowledge and experience you acquire through seeing and experiencing the world. It will teach you tolerance and compassion and you'll likely acquire professional skills such as fluency in a foreign language, cultural expertise, and the ability to relate to people of diverse backgrounds and mentalities. You'll never learn these things in the classroom, but they will guarantee your success in everything you do.