Mills College Top Questions

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

Madeline

If I could go back in time and give my high-school self some advice for college, I would tell my self to learn not to avoid doing the assignments for my classes. In high school, I managed to skate by in a lot of my classes by either being able to understand the material without doing the readings, and therefore, without doing the assignments, or by manipulating my teachers to give me extensions, or even to think that they had lost the assignment. The biggest transition that I had to get used to was the fact that I needed to do the readings to understand the content of the classes was very difficult for me, especially dealing with the stress of realizing that I was behind in the class. Trying to play catch up for the material that I never really learned in the first place, while simultaneously trying to learn the current material is very difficult, and if someone could have told my younger self: “Really, really learn to do the readings! Complete the assignments!” I would have really appreciated that once I entered college because that was the hardest thing for me to learn.

Hanna

I came to college fairly prepared. I wouldv'e told myself to relax and not be nervous

Audriannah

I would tell myself that I did not have to be so afraid of failure and that I could live alittle more than I did in college. I would also tell myself that all of the hard work that I did in college would pay off and to continue all of the volunteer work because it really did make a difference in the lives of the women that went to my college. I would also tell myself to get off campus more and explore the city that was around me without constantly worrying about my homework. However, overall, I would tell myself that Mills College would me the reason that I become the person I am today.

Cecilia

Don't expect things to stay how they have been, many things will change within the next few months, which will change your outlook on college, and leaving farther from home would be the right choice for you. You should not hesitate to go away for college, it is probably the best experience you can recieve. Don't be afraid to leave your comfort zone, because you will get used to your new surroundings. Everything will work out in the long run and you shouldnt worry too much about what your major should be, you will figure it all out in time, and your first year of college is just trying to help you figure out what you like.

Ione

If I could go back in time to talk to my myself when I was a high school senior, I would tell myself to abancdon the complacency that I had become so accustomed to! My grades were always good enough, I usually had good relationships with my teachers, and I never struggled too much in school. This meant that I usually put the minimum required effort into what I did. From what I have learned since being in college, hard work and extra effort aren't necessary for the good grades, it's necessary for my happiness. Studying harder, asking for tutoring and pushing myself a little harder on each problem may or may not get me closer to my future goals, but where ever I end up, I'll know that my journey was happy and whole. It also takes hard work to build the strong friendships that I always felt were missing from my life. This time around, I'm not going to miss out on feeling that I did all I could. If I could go back and tell my high school self this, feeling happy and proud of myself could have have started that much sooner.

Yolanda

I would say work your best, try your hardest, and do your work so you can go to college and succeed. The best way to do good in college is to try your best in highschool. Dont slack and listen. If you stay caught up and do all your work and get good grades college will be easier. Do your best and after highschool start straight into college so everything is not hard to remember. Start college right after highschool and keep going. Dont stop to take time off, just keep going and youll do great. College is alot harder than highschool so you need to listen up and get good grades. The only way to succeed is to try your hardest. Without pushing yourself and doing what you have to to get good grades, college wont be simple. Try your hardest and youll succeed.

Natalie

Go to book renting sites to avoid spending all that money on books. Always check to make sure that you can get your books at cheaper prices. Also do not be afraid to talk to your professors. They are really nice and would love to get to talk to you because they are there to make sure you understand the material. Networking with these professors can help you later when you graduate college and start looking for a job. More importantly, eventhough the semester gets hectic, never stop looking for scholarships. Apply to as many as possible no matter what the scholarship amount is. Every little bit counts and it will drastically reduce how much money you will have to borrow from laons. Lastly, take advantage of all the resources your school offers because other students might not be so lucky. All those resources will make it easier for you to succeed in school. Being a first generation college student, does not mean that you have to do everything alone or by yourself.

mallory

Firstly, I would stop nagging my parents about letting me attend a four year university straight out of high school. I know now that going to the community college in the next town was a great transition experience and will better prepare me to take the plunge and move off by myself without any doubt that I can not just pass, but pass with flying colors. Secondly, I would make sure that I realize there is a balance between school and fun. Discipline yourself now so it won't be a hard change later. If you set aside a couple hours a day for your homework and studying, you will see there is plenty of 'me time' left in the day. This way, you won't get stressed out during midterms and finals when it seems that there is not enough time in the world to prepare yourself. Lastly, get out of your comfort zone and have fun! Other students are the best way to have a great time and get to know different cultures and worldviews. Use every tool you have got and do not be so shy!

Anika

A women's college education will make you a stong, intelligent, indepentent woman. Always trust and follow your heart; you always know what's best for yourself. Choosing Mills will be one of those "heart" decisions, it's hard work but you will be so proud of yourself when you're done, never give up. You are on your way to great things, just keep believing in your abilities, and love yourself as much as you can. You will have the greatest life long friendships, don't worry if you don't make friends right away. Everything will fall into place, but you're already on the right track.

Troy

If I were to go back to talk to my high school self, I would have to tell myself that I need to look ahead of myself. That I need to think about what I need to do, as well as what I want. However; to get where I want I need to let go of the ties that bind me and accept that I'm going to need to put my needs ahead of my wants. In that, I need to do the work thats required of me regardless of wanting to get it done or not. That the people that I'm close to have good morals and beliefs. But they don't have the proper directional motivation that I'm going to need to get where I want to be. They will always be my friends, I just need to see the future that is in store for me. The future that I have right there at the ends of my fingertips.

Tamara

Note to Self: Start the process now, you are not as dumb as you thought. You COULD be successful with a little help from friends and family. Don't just assume that you are not college material. Everyone learns on a different level. You can do this.!!!

Jillien

I would tell myself not to be afraid. I spent most of my high school career afraid of doing the wrong thing or saying the wrong thing. I would go back and tell myself that it doesn't matter because i am beautiful and I matter. I would tell myself to hold on because when I go to college, I will be loved and supported. People will care about me and they will listen to what I have to say, in fact they will celebrate my opinions and genuinly care about me as an individual and a scholar. It would be important to remind myself to have an open mind and to consider other people's opinions and beliefs. I would tell myself that I am making the right decision and that I will in fact, be happy very soon.

Imani

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, the first thing I would tell myself is to choose my college very carefully, and base it specifically on my intended major. Another thing I would tell myself is to consider athletics when deciding which college to attend. When I chose Mills College, I chose it for the academics. I had told myself not to choose a school just because they had a lacrosse team. Looking back on my decision, I wish that I had chosen a school with a lacrosse team. I would tell myself not to worry about seeming too eager to make friends the first few days at school. Each person was just as desperate to make new friends as the next. Lastly, I would tell myself to stay awake later doing homework, and to not take as many study breaks as I did my first year. I was on Mills' Crew team, and I would go to sleep extremely early to wake up at 5:00 each morning. Instead of coming back from classes and putting off homework until later, I would tell myself to get it done early.

Ani

I would advice my high school senior self to leave behind high school, and come to college with an open mind for new experiences and new ways to get through classes. There are no expectations to meet from people, it is always best to just be yourself, especially when meeting new people. Also, collect a lot of quarters for laundry!

Tarin

I absolutely love my school. I have been able to explore my passions, both inside and outside of the classroom. I have met both like minded people and those whose opinions differ from mine. I have learned to question everything and articulate exactly how controlling images and oppressive behaviors affect marginalized individuals in our society. I have met the most amazing friends, and had amazing interactions with faculty members who take my artistic endeavors seriously. I have seen how my interests (poetry and dance) translate into real world applications, especially in the diverse and vibrant San Francisco Bay Area art scene. Every day I am challenged, physically, academically, and emotionally.

Emmalee

I'm opening up more thanks to college. They focus a lot on student participation. They help you when you need it. As college teachers they are more honest than high school teachers. College helps prepare you for the real world in a way that high school doesn't. They have deadlines they stick to and more in depth projects and papers. They allow for more involvment from their students, and help us achieve life long friendships and connections.

Nina

First, I never would have been able to attend Mills College if it weren't for the amazing financial aid they provided for me. The college has, through that means and others, made me feel wanted, and extremely flattered that they chose to accept me. In attending Mills College, I have faced more opportunities than I have before. My caring professors always make themselves and other resources available for meetings and extra help with the work, meaning I have learned more than I expected to, about the subject and about how to do the work. Everyone--professors, RAs, administrators, coaches--have made themselves available for anything I might need, such as discussion about stressors. I have always felt hesistant, and nervous about my confidence with and in front of other people. But I learned to approach others for help. Additionally, I joined the crew team even with no prior experience, which would not have been possible at other schools, and became a coxswain, forcing me to be responsible for eight women out on the water, teaching me to look after them and drive them on, acting as a coach would, which has improved my confidence and leadership skills.

Kylie

I have met some of the most amazing people, classmates and professors who love what they do. The teachers care about how you do in their class and keep their classes interesting. I love running on the track and cross-country team because I am supported and I really love my team-mates. The value of classes and relationships cannot be compared to anything else.

Melissa

In the beginning, college was not for me. I just wasn’t ready, so I gave up. A few years later, I decided to try again. It has been the best decision of my life! I received my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology in 2008. Now I am back in school for a Nursing degree. I aspire to be a psychiatric nurse. College has helped me to grow up. Looking back, I see that the time I spent in college has helped me acquire skills and knowledge that I would have never had otherwise. I have made networking connections with professors and fellow students that have helped me to attain my goals in life. Without college, I would not be the person who I am today.

Jason

I spent one year in college, and I learned many things during that span. Some of things I learned went way beyond the classroom. While in college, I had to learn how to balance my school life, as well as a full time overight job. The work load in school was tough enough, but a night job paying for my education made it tougher. I also learned how important completing my schooling was. At 26 years old, I have matured a great deal. I'm ready to start my career, and I understand that having a degree is only going to improve my chances of being successful. In my field, Audio Production, the corporate world is looking for people with good technical experience and trainning. I could have gained all the field experience in the world, but without the classroom trainning, it's unless. I will be able to work, hands-on immediately in my field. That is imperitive for what Im trying to do. I would have the opportunity to be taught by some of the best instructors in their field. I believe attending college would be the most important and best I've made decision in my life.

Wendy

I have learned about different cultures, and how to approach someone who isn't like me in terms of ethnic background without being offensive. I have conquered the homophobia I had. I've learned how to call out people on their racist tendencies without becoming emotional. I have met people like me, finally, on intellectual terms, where issues like politics, religion and literature aren't out of the question. I hadn't had those sort of conversations previously because no one wanted to be offended, and even though everyone has their own opinion here in Mills there can still be this peaceful coexistence. It has been very valuable to attend because I have grown in these couple of months more than any other point in my life. I am grateful for my family, and I understand that a lot of people don't the privileges that I have had. I am poor, and Mills is a private institution, but after being here I understand that it is worth it. Working for my education makes me appreciate Mills more. College has made me humble.

Victoria

I would tell myself that I need practice making friends and being social. I also should read books like To Kill a Mockingbird and 1984 so i would know what the other girls were talking about. Also to not stress, it will be fun and it will be the right choice (which ever college you choose). Most of all let yourself try as many new things as possible and stay on top of your homework.

Miriam

Miriam, you need to start paying attention to colleges right NOW. Don't wait around for someone to tell you where you should go, take the plunge and look at everything and anything. Don't allow peoples personal opinions to sway you where they want you to go, look at where you want to go. When leaving for college don't stress. Everything will go smoothly and perfectly. And don't worry about the first week of school, making friends, new classes, and scary teachers because everything has to happen for a reason. Your family is always going to be there to support you so someone will constantly be there for you. Don't worry about the little things, live your life, enjoy your time, don't slack on anything, and work your butt off! You will be amazing!

Loren

If I could go back in time and tell myself as a high school senior what I know now, I would tell myself to enjoy the moments with friends and family, as well as to really pay attention to the advice my teachers kept repeating. I chose a school far away from my hometown and I miss my friends and family. As a senior, I had fun with my friends and family, but i don't think i appreciated it enough then as i do now. So I would have told myself when i was a senior that no matter how great of friends you are or how close to your parents you are, distance makes you realize how great you had it and how hard it is to be away from them. Academically, I would have liked myself to know that the one teacher that sometimes got on your nerves was right, learning those vocabulary words really will help you in college. My senior year I believed I knew what collge would be like and I did not need it to be told by a teacher. Turns out I will be using every single thing i was taught.

Lin

Senior year of high school: time to lay back, relax, and reap in the hard work of the last three years of high school. We were wrong to assume so. Having now experienced a little bit of college and real life, having learned to trust my self and my own knowledge, if I could go back in time, to my senior self I would say, "Snap out of it, get organized, get working, and balance it all with fun!" As a first generation Chinese-American daughter, I was expected to study, study, study. I had studied hard and worked hard, but when senior year came around, because EVERYONE became lazy, I slacked off and attained an apathetic work habit. My reasoning had been that because I had worked so hard all those other years, no one would care about the last year. Colleges wouldn't even see the second semester grades until after acceptance letters were mailed out. Because of these views, my first semester of college was disasterous. Instead of working your very, very hardest at and dedicating your energy to one point of life, everyone, especially my senior self, should learn to balance all parts of life.

Elizabeth

There are several things that I would tell myself as a high school senior with the experience of the first semester of college. First, I would be clearer in believing in my capabilities, both as a student and as an individual. I am not attending college in order to simply land a job, but also to become a more well rounded person academically, emotionally, and personally. I'd be more aware of my goal to gain a wider, more comprehensive world perspective. By believing in myself, I am creating the groundwork to learn who I am, not only academically, but also culturally: what my role is in this world community framework. This is the most important peice of advice I could offer. In addition, I would convey the importance of establishing relationships with professors and faculty members. They are there to help every student--to meet me where I am; don't be nervous in asking for help! The lifelong friendships will develop with time, and these are just as vital to the college experience as the academics. My last peice of advice would be to make the most of the four years I have in college in every way.

Kamiel

It will happen as soon as the family leaves and you find yourself alone in your new dorm room amongst the boxes of your belongings. The strangeness of your surroundings will hit you like a ton of bricks, heavy and horribly unexpected. Those people wandering around the halls are strangers, and the loneliness will sneak up behind you and rob you of your excitement, replacing it with knots of dread in your stomach. You?ll be terrified at the thought of starting all the way back at the bottom rung the social ladder, especially when making friends was never easy for you to begin with. Pretending to be fine by acting tough and aloof will be your first response to your situation. It also won?t help you at all. They?ll see you as unapproachable and treat you as such. Don?t be silent. Speak up and introduce yourself. Don?t be afraid to join your dorm mates when they gather together. Opening up to others is difficult for you, but once you get over that, you?ll be able to make new friends who will be there for you during the ups and downs of your new life.

Katy

I know things haven't been easy. But please, relax a little and enjoy yourself. High school puts a lot of stress on college preparedness, but what you really need to do is take some time out. You don't have to cram the night before the exam. It doesn't work in high school, and it definitely doesn't work in college - believe me, I've tried. Take a bath, rub your feet, go to yoga - and then work on your assignments. They will be so much better once your head is clear and your heart is happy. Once you get yourself straightened out, everything else will fall into place. And please, stop wearing those shoes. I know you love them, but they're falling apart! It's time to let go.

Wiljago

Don't be too quick to judge an experience a failure. Even the strange false starts that end up cluttering our lives teach us something, at least. Everything there is to do takes longer than you think. Having respect for the project will give you patience.

Maja

When I was a senior in high school, I wasn't really aware of all the options available to me, since my parents and I were immigrants. I believed that higher education was outside of my financial reach. I was also intimidated by the application process because it sounded very complex. Therefore, I began full time work when I was 18 years old. Needless to say, inexperienced and lacking a college education, my work was not very fulfilling. However, after working for years and learning that I could succeed as a professional, I grew as a person and gained confidence. I became ready to pursue my college education, which I dreamed of all along. If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself that going to college was a real possibility, and that whatever obstacles I perceived could be overcome. I would have encouraged myself to research all the options available to me, including financial aid options. I would tell myself to dream and pursue what I really want.

wafa

The advice i would give myself if I was a senior in high school I would have applied for scholarship and you have to work hard to earn your grades. Be flexible and I didn't know exactly what I wanted to be when I was 18 and take different courses in college and change majors, change colleges, and take longer to graduate if you need to. I would find a work that I love to do, not worry about what job that pays the best and take good courses that will help you and college life.

Nicole

If I had the chance to go back and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself that even though you ultimately attend colleges and universities because of academic reasons, the school's social life also plays a huge role in the students overall happiness on campus. If you take tours of certain campuses and get the chance to interview students, really ask them about the social life; "how is campus life on weekends?" "does the location of the school affect your life on and off campus?". I would make sure that I reminded myself that I like to have an even balance of a good social life that isn't overwhelming, along with an academic experience that isn't overbearing.

Sydney

don't give your mom any leeway when it comes to doing her taxes, youwill need that money more than you really know.

Lyndsey

Bring more towels, don't live alone (it sucks), and don't take Calc, you stick at it.

Chelsie

The best advice I could give to students and parents about finding the right school would be to apply to a lot of them, and to visit. My biggest mistake when choosing a school was that I only applied to the few that I heard about or that sent me free applications. Because of this I didn't realize that I could get more scholarships from small private schools and ended up applying to schools that I could never afford. I encourage students and parents who are able to visit schools because every college and university has such a unique environment and aura. Visiting schools and meeting students was the biggest factor in my decision to attend Mills College. As far as how to make the most of your college experience, I urge students to get involved, to come out of their shell and to have fun. Mills is an amazing school academically, and I've learned a lot, but one of the main reasons I've stayed is because of the strong community I've built with other students, staff and in the outside community. Getting involved and "putting yourself out there" is the best way to get started.

Brittini

Visit your college choices both formally and informally to truly assess the whole realm of the college.

Becky

First of all they have to decide whether they want to live close to home or far away, then from there whether they want to choose a big school or small school. It is hard to choose but have to be open and have lots of options. When finding the right college you have to go visit it. You have to walk around and imagine yourself if you see yourself going to that school. Try to have an overnight stay to see how it is to stay in campus. That would give you an opportunity to see the college life and get to ask questions to college students. To make the most of college you have to be up for challenges and know that you could overcome them if you work really hard. Its really hard to be on top of things when you have friends who invite you to go out placesm=, but sometimes you just have to make sacrifices. You could go out once in a while and get yourself distressed, but not too much that gets you out of getting work done on time. Just enjoy college and have fun and of course work hard.

Rashida

As soon as I began Mills last year, I knew it was the right place for me. I was terrified on my first day of Journalism class-- excited because I had always dreamed of becoming a journalist, but nonetheless terrified that I would not be good enough to succeed. In spite of my fears, my professors saw potential in me, and encouraged me to minor in journalism while also writing for the school paper. That one semester changed my life and I am now certain of what career I'd like to pursue. My advice to students would be to seek out a college where you feel supported to try new things, things that perhaps you would have never thought you were able to do. While attending "brand name" universities of high prestige is a source of great pride, it does not necessarily mean that you will get an education that will inspire you to choose a specific career, the way my education has. I believe that being a place where you can freely experiment with different career-focused disciplines will enable you to hone in more on what you would like to do after graduation.

Rachel

For a student who does not know which field of study they wish to pursue, school attened a college that is willing to work with that student and a school that has a varity of options.

Kaetchen

Because of the financial situation many families are having to deal with, I would reccomend making tuition a huge part of the college searching process. This was an idea that used to be taboo, often thought to deter students from making the right decision about their college, but keep in mind that when the first exciting year is done, and you or your student has been paying that bill every month, the reality will set in that education is the number one important thing about college, and frivoulous things can come later. A good idea is to maybe go to a state college to get in state tuition for the first year or two years, and then transfer to a college that you would prefer once your general education classes are fulfilled. If you do take that option, which often puts less financial stress on both the student and parents, make sure to communicate with your chosen college for your last two years. You should make sure your credits will transfer, and that you are getting a good base education so that you will be able to do the academics at your chosen university. Be Yourself when you choose.

Azure

Try not to let other's influence your decision. Come up with a strategy BEFORE you start looking for colleges. Make a list of the main things you want to get out of your college experience whether it's small class sizes, competitive atmosphere, social activities, etc. if you keep your list in mind as you visit schools and talk to alumni and students you will be much less likely to be swayed by their "Sales Pitch". Almost everyone you meet (esspecially recruiters) will go on and on about how great their school is but if it's not for you, it's not for you! Another piece of advice is to phrase your questions wisely. Never hint at the answer you are seeking when you ask a question. Here is an example: Do not ask: "So, are there a lot of active things to do around campus?" If you phrase your question this way you will get an answer that is tailored to the response the recruiter believes you want to hear. Instead phrase your question this way: "What kinds of activities are available?" This question is much more open ended and you will get a more honest response.

Rachel

Try to figure out what environments you work the best in (larger or smaller class sizes), and also try to find a school that, at least for the most part, matches up with your political views. It's a nice thing to have other people to relate to, as well as challenge you.

Elina

Remember to visit the campus. Make sure to find out whether small are large classes are right for you. Remember to take any opportunity that presents itself. It is better to ask for forgiveness than permission.

Keshia

I think that what you should look for first is if the school has the academics and extra curriculars that you are interested. Then cost and location should come next in your consideration. Once the student has come to the school the best thing to do is to get involved in everything that interest you to see where you fit and to find out what doesn't work from the beginning. Once this is all established you can start planning the direction you want to get out of the school and your education there.

suki

Visit the college. Take the time to explore the neighborhood and community before coming. Try to make friend via face book prior to coming. Study what you are passionate about, not what you think will make the most money. Take the first semester easy on yourself. Allow yourself time to transition and ask for help. Use all of the resources available because your paying for them. If you need something that isn't already available find a way to create it. Don't always trust what the college is trying to sell you. Talk to students or visit websites created by students.

Alison

Absolutely visit the school first and make sure that it's in a neighborhood you want to live in. Also, meet the professors of your major first, if you are going to a small school.

Darcy

Until you've tried it out, you won't really know how much you'll like it. Always try to stay overnight at a school you're really interested--twice if possible, so you can get two different experiences. Attend as many classes as you can, even in subjects you don't think you'll be interested in taking. If you already find yourself engaged in learning, that's a sign you might do well academically. Finally, people-watch. If you can easily imagine yourself among the students of the college, then you've probably realized the school is right for you.

Andee

I would advise students to look for a strong community and peaceful environment foremost, somewhere they will quickly feel happy and at home. Academic rigor should be looked at in consideration with the balance they want between school and life in general. Before looking at prestige, they need to evaluate somewhere that will be a good fit for them, they will be learning and living there for the next 4 years. finally they should make sure that the college has a wide selection of majors to explore so they can discover what they are passionate about turning into a career.

Margaret

Do some soul searching first. Figure out what you love and who you love. Know the people you want to be with before you choose. Accept that you will change, be prepared to be open to new experiences and see college as a challenge. Don't be afraid, the college you pick will not make or break you. Alway remember, you will do your best in a place where you are happy and challenged. You did not make it through High School to wind up in a bigger version of it. Show the world what you are made of.

Maxamaris

To students: take a deep breath. Just pick one. College is about two things: the present and the future. Forget the past. Forget about what your parents want. Forget about what you did in high school. College is where you will realize who you are. That sounds cliched, but believe me: you can feel it happening. You can be whoever you want to be. Once you're in college, spend your time enjoying everything around you. Your major, your grades, the professional contacts you make - not going to lie - those are important. All I my advice on that is to listen to your gut. What do you like? In most careers, you need at least a Masters to be competitive, so spend your undergraduate doing what you love. You need to remember the things ahead of you, but you will be better prepared for them if you just learn how to take care of yourself and how to make the most out of the incredible world we live in and the people in it. Eat some fruit and vegetables. Call your family once in a while. Return your library books on time. Don't plagiarize. Get into some extracurriculars.