Mississippi State University Top Questions

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

Tyler

My advice to parents and/or students about finding the right college is to start looking early and look thoroughly. I regret when I looked at colleges most of my "campus tours" were done online rather than actually on campus. It's important to go the university and see it and spend some time there. If possible, stay overnight, maybe not with a parent but with a friend in order to experience the students' social atmosphere and personalities. Remember, this a a place and these are the typ of people you will, hopefully, be spending the next four years of your life with. If you're not happy spending a weekend there why would anyone want to waste four years of their life. Another thing I wish parents and/or students could avoid is only looking at the numbers. Just like the old saying "money can't buy happiness," just because one school offers more scholarship money than the other doesn't make it the right place to sign with. All in all, do what makes the student happy and what makes them feel comfortable, balanced with what the parents feel is in their child's best educational interest.

Erica

I would tell parents to be supportive of their children's college choice no matter how much they may disagree. I would tell students to go with the choice that makes them feel the most comfortable. I would also tell them to remember to study, study, study and always put school before play.

Nathan

Follow your heart.

Carmen

Many first year students jump into the college life without knowing consequences to one's actions. A student is living on campus with no parental guidance is something a student must learn to adjust to, but not take advantage of the privilege. When considering what college a student wants to attend depends on many factors: location, campus condition, education background, etc. Then, once a student makes their decision, they can begin to enjoy the positive things about college life.

Carolyn

Mississippi State University is a great school. It has many rescources to help students not only with school, but the resources at this college helps students learn to help themselves academically and to help better themselves as a person. There is never a dull moment, but that does not mean it is distracting. No matter what the activivty - be it sports, music, clubs, groups, ect - you always feel involved. Professors and teachers want to see their students work hard and reap the benefits from working hard. Though MSU was not my first choice, I never once regretted my choice in enrolling at this fine college. I love this school, I love the faculty - both teaching and non-teaching, and the friends that I have made here are friends that are the truest and rarest. Mississippi State University is not only my school, but it is my second home.

Caitlin

To look at lots of colleges, and apply to lots of colleges. Then, visit the colleges and let the student get a feel for where they belong. No college is right for every student. The student needs to be completely comfortable, and the parents need to let the student make a decision, not force them to pick one school or another.

Brian

Take a large group of colleges you like along with the fields of study that interest you as well as your social lifestyle needs and overlap the areas and see which college you best fit. Best fit as in a college you like with a degree program your interested in and enough social activites for you to engage in.

Benjamin

The crucial element of a college to look for is whether or not it offers the degree in which you are desiring to obtain. With those options laid before you, just visit the campus. By meeting with the financial aid offices and professors in your subject area you can get a good idea of how life oncampus will be. Finding a great college just for you is simple if you simply put forth the effort to find it.

Katherine

When searching for the right college, you want to consider what your major will be. Look at the colleges academic record with that particular major. Do they excell in that area? Most colleges specialize in one or two areas. Visit the campuses of the colleges you are looking to get into. See if you feel at home there, because if you decide to attend that college campus will become your home. If you feel akward and at unease you may want to consider somewhere different. Another thing that you might want to check on is does that college require you to attend all your classes or require freshmen to live on campus. Do you agree with the colleges rules? When you choose the college that you will attend get involved. You will meet new people that will become some of your best friends at college. Do not forget the reason that you are going to college though. It is important to remember to study, work hard, and maintain a high GPA so that when your college days are over you can find a great job and start your life on the right track.

Amber

My best advice would be for the student to pick the college that they feel they would fit in the best, not where the parent would like to see them attend. It is very important for the success of the student that they are happy at the school they choose. Make sure you tour many schools before picking the one that you want to attend.

Shaleasha

Think in terms of what you wish to major in, how far it is from home, and how much it will cost you. In college, join the extracurricular activities and make friends but also study hard.

Alyssa

When you go off to college, you won't always succeed on the first try. It's a wonderful, new and sometimes difficult environment and it takes some getting used to. Don't worry if you make one bad grade - study harder for the next one. If you have one disagreeable professor, you only have to endure them for one semester. College is a learning and growing experience, so try to use each mistake and trial as an opportunity to make yourself into a bigger and better person.

Heather

I believe it is important for their children to be able to have the choice where they want to go. It is reallt sad when you hear situations where a child just went to a school because their parents wanted them to "follow in their footsteps". Parents obviously should help guide their children in the decision but they should not over power them. College is a time for kids to learn about themselves. Everyone is unique in their own way and they need to be in an environment that is going to help them blossom. The happier your child is at the college they choose the more likely they are going to succeed. When you feel comfortable somewhere then you will work harder but still be able to have fun.

Laura

Finding a college that meets your needs academically and personally is essential. Find a major and classes that you enjoy. If you do not enjoy the learning process, college is a waste of time. College should be all about the journey, not just the piece of paper at the end. Find people with similar interests but be open to new and different experiences. Always be ready to learn from those around you and ask lots of qeustions. You may find you leanr just as much from your classmates and yourself as you do from your professors.

Katrina

Students should pick a college that has a variety of activities available on campus. Of course the college should also have the degree program they are seeking, it is important to set a social atmosphere as well as an academic one. A new student should join as many activities that interest them, as long as it does not interfere with their learning. They will become better connected with the school as well as making friends they will know for years to come. New students should have a dorm room for at least two years, even if they don?t want to, they will never regret it. Students should eat the cafeteria food, just for the experience. They should go for long walks with someone they enjoy the company of; never know where it might take them. Last of all, enjoy the experience because the years go by fast.

Thomas

Decide what you want to learn and where you would like to be and then apply for all the financial aid and scholorships you can there are plenty of opportunities to where any one with enough determination can go where ever they want, but be smart about it. Don't be too worried about what you want to do for the rest of your life, find something you enjoy and classes that motivate you to study.

Toni

it is very important to find a school that can offer the most adequate classes for the field that the student is interested in, but also a school with a diversity in fields, so that the student has an opportunity to explore new majors in case they change their mind about the one they are in.

Ms.

I would advise parents to have their students nearby but not so close,students need freedom but in a moderate amount.

Rebekah

First and foremost I would visit the campus and speak to faculty to get an idea of how organized and friendly the staff is. Then do your research on where the school stands academically and what type of companies come to the school to hire graduates. Also, I personally like to see what type of networking is available within the school as this can be essential with certain degrees.

chelsie

Everyone has a college that is right for them. Visit the campus and research the school to narrow your options down. My college makes me feel right at home, mainly because i don't live far from the town and a lot of my class mates attend the same school. Make sure the school has everything to offer that you are interested in. Picture yourself there and interacting with the people. I have a very friendly campus and i can't imagine it being any other way. Most teachers are willing to help and it makes me not feel so lost. YOu'll see that it is a lot of little things that matter moreso than the big. So ask all the questions you want and make sure you are perfectly happy with your decision. you will just know!~

Tiffany

The purpose of college is to gain an education necessary to be a successful member of society. However, more than acadmic knowledge is required. College is supposed to offer the student a relatively safe and secure environment in which to explore independence and life as a young adult. The parent should make sure that the student realizes the necessity of being successful in areas both academic and social while in college, because if the student cannot learn to be successful and responsible in college, then the life in the "real world" will only be harder. Whatever area the student decides to focus on, the helpfulness and friendliness of the faculty is crucial. How knowledgeable are they about the career options available to their students? Are they willing to help students find internship and job opportunities? If they are not personable during campus visits, they cannot be trusted with the advising of the student. The same goes for their level of knowledge. If they do not sound like they know what they are talking about, chances are they do not. No one should ever belittle a student committed to their own success, especially one with a PhD attached to their name.

Cody

The best advice that I can give for selecting a college is to look at academic options first, and then financial ones. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the university I originally intended to that has a major I am more interested in (ecology) because it is out-of-state and costs more money. Yes, money is a factor, but I would rather go into debt now and end up doing something I enjoyed, rather than spending my life debt-free but being unhappy with my occupation. A degree lasts forever, so you mine as well get it in what you want! Now, I am not saying that a family who lives below the poverty line should sell all their posessions so their son or daughter can go to a university that costs $40,000 a year, because obviously we all have to be somewhat realistic. I am just saying be careful about limiting your selection based on money alone, because the money you save will not buy you happiness later if you regret your decision. Thank you for your consideration in this scholarship award. Cody Jordan

Tikeshia

I would say make sure that you are ready for college and that you major in something that you want to do and something that will benfit you later on in life.

Holly

When I was a senior in high school looking at colleges, I was overwhelmed by my college decision. I visited schools in-state and out-of-state and once I visited Mississippi State I knew I would be going there. I felt comfortable there and they offered degrees that interested me. It is very important that you are knowledgeable about the different degrees offered at the college you choose just in case you change your major. I think students should feel at home when they are looking for the right college because your college becomes your home away from home. As for making the most of your college experience, you will get out of it what you put into it. I suggest getting involved. If you like to have a busy social life join a sorority or fraternity. The Greek system is great for meeting people! No matter your interests, find the group of people you share them with and your college experience will be so memorable! When you find the right college, enjoy it because your time goes by too quickly.

Jessica

Find a college that suits what it is you plan on doing with your life. Going to a school that is known for its parties is fun, but not a good choice for your future. Pick a degree plan and then locate the college that is known for their sucess in that field of study. Explore various options, and chose the one that you feel suits your needs the best. Be sure to balance both the fun aspect of college and the studious aspect. In most situations you can not spend all your time playing around and expect to be sucessful in a degree plan. At the same time alsways spending your time studying is going to take away from your college experience that you will more then likely only go through once. Don't waste it by neglecting your school work, but don't waste it by not enjoying it.

Brantley

Go to the school and see how you are treated by the staff and stundents. Also, reserch news articles to see what has been going on in the school recently to see if they are getting involved in things that you are interested in being involved with. The most important thing to look at is if you are looked at as an individual or as a list of stats on a piece of paper.

Alkennia

The advice I would give parents and students about finding the right college is to do their research first. College is a lifetime experience and is the beginning of all things. College is gateway to success. The process of finding the right college is important in a child's life because each college does not offer the same courses at the same rates. If the parents guide their children with finding the right college with the right offers or benefits will alleviate much stress. Prospective students and their parents should take tours of the schools to observe the atmosphere of the college and get acquainted with campus. Prospective individuals who wants to attend college should make the most of the college experience. College is a special time for individuals to make long-life friends, gain networking capabilities, and receive a higher education to make something of themselves. A person's college experience onlyu comes once and goes by fast, so parents need to encourage their child to be extroverted and make friends, and to get involved in extracurricular activities, but be safe in the process. Students need to have fun but take the college experience seriously to get their education.

Jennifer

Honestly, I would tell students and parents that if you or your student are not sure of what he/she wants to do for a major, then seriously consider looking into Community Colleges first. They are a good way to get your basic courses out of the way, and also they allow students to get a better grasp of what they want to do with their lives. Once you choose a college, do your work. Go to classes, take notes, ask for help if you need it. Many students feel anxious about seeking help from their professors, but they'll find that most professors are more than willing to help if their students go to them. Get involved on campus, whether it be with a sport, the Greek system, or even starting your own club. You'll feel more at home that way, and chances are, you'll find other people that have the same interests as you do. Most importantly, be yourself, and if you don't know who you are yet, then college is a very good time to figure that out. Follow your dreams. They are a lot closer than you might think.

William

Research each and every possibility carefully before choosing a college.

Hanna

As with any student going off to college I suggest making a trip to campus and getting to know people. Parents should always try to be as knowledgeable as possible and helpful with their childs decision. If you have any questions never be afraid to ask. Many schools have things or programs they are known for but that never means that is the only type of person who should go there. Always follow your heart and mind and you will always be happy wherever you end up!

Martin

Finding the right college isn't easy, and there's no simple way to do it. I strongly suggest that students select colleges that best suit their needs (money, major, etc.) If a student goes to a college just to have fun, their education is not their top priority and it will suffer. To make the most of the experience, the mindset of the student needs to be open. Attending a college with a closed mind won't get the student anywhere. The students need to aim to be friendly and understanding.

Martamara

First, in order to find the right college a student should have an idea as to what they would like to pursue a career in, because some colleges focus on or have excellent programs in certain areas that other colleges might not put so much emphasis on or some colleges may not have a program or major for the area of interest of the student. So at least having an idea as to an area of interest would really help a lot. A student wouldn't want to be at a college that doesn't have a program for their career interest. Second, to make the best of the college experience the student should just relax and have fun. Not saying just go out partying and things of that nature, but just try not to stress too much or just be so buried in the books that the student has no social life. I say do your work and make the best of leisure time!!

Shobal

Come prepared to work. Make sure you sign to a college that you want to attend. Make friends, they can make your college life better.

Jonathan

Don't go to community college unless imperative; Stay in the dorms first year

Kristin

I would tell the students excited about college that they must never let anyone tell them what they can and cannot do. Shoot for the stars and you will find it hard not to fall from that.

Lee

Find a college that will best suit your major. If the college you choose is not known for having a good department in your field of study, than you probably made a bad decision. Research your school before you make a hasty decision based on friends and fun.

Blake

Find a college that is not all about one thing. Find a college that is balanced and is diverse and has a place for everybody to fit in no matter who you are, and also has a great education program. Get involved as much as you can and meet as many people as you can. Live life to the fullest and try your hardest in what you do so that you will make the most of your college years without any regrets.

Whitney

Of course everyone has there own preferences when looking for the perfect college. Whether it's sports, academics, or your social life that is most important to you, make sure you will be happy during your college career. As for making the most of your college experience, get involved, get to know people. Go out and have fun, but also find that balance between school and play.

Wes

To find the right college you need to find a place where you feel comfortable and where you feel like you can fit in. I would reccomend making at least a weekend trip to your college one in each semester to get a better idea of wht it is like throughout the year.

Vincent

The main reason people go to college is to learn and to obtain a degree with which to start a career and begin making money, so you should look for a school with a strong academic program, first and foremost. You also want to have a bit of fun while away at college; I suggest you do not need to select a college far out from civilization, but schools in large cities can cause numerous distractions from you studies. Lastly, you probably want your school to be a place that you look forward going to everyday. You should look for a school with a campus pleasing to look upon and is a fun place to be. College life would be boring if the only buildings on campus hold only classrooms and administrative offices. Make sure the school you select has a gym for you to stay in tip-top shape and plenty of open spaces so you can throw a football or a frisbee around with your friends in your downtime.

Ross

Don't just look for academics. Yes, they are important, but students need to feel like they are at the right place for them to succed well. Go search the city the college is in and make decisions about it as well. Learn about the traditions of the school and then add those with academic records to choose the right school.

William

The first thing that I would reccomend would be to visit the schools of your choice. After visisting the schools make a list of the campuses that you like the best. This is important becasue you do not want to be stuck somewhere for 4 or more years that you don't like. Next would be yo judge the faculty of the department that you are interested in pursuing. The better the faculty the better the qulity of the education. Finially look at the financial aspect of the school. If its going to be too much of a burden then do not go to that school. One last piece of advice go where ever you feel comfortable.

Christopher

I would suggest to visit the school on more than one occasion and actually go to a class that relates what you would like to study.

Nick

Dont be shy. Get involved and meet as many new people as you can, you would be suprise at how many best life-long friends you will find. Last but not least stay on top of your school work and almost everything else will fall in place.

Derek

First of all, find the college that has the right kind of environment for the hopeful student. If the student likes quiet environments with little activity, find a campus that matches that personality. If the student likes busy, fast-paced action, find a campus to suit that personality. Second, the student should keep in mind to work on his or her assignments first of all, and then they can enjoy themselves. It is important to have a daily work schedule in order to keep up with studies and assignments. Fun can always come later.

Carlye

I would say just find the place that you will feel must comfortable with that isn't known for alot of drugs. People are friendly just find the place that you fit in at. My best advice to anyone is to get involved espicially if your going some where far away from home. Make sure you also study alot and make time for acadmics because that is an easy way to leave college real fast. Try and help your parents out and get the most scholarships you can. Parents find the college that you will want you kids to go to or atleast agree on together and you feel that they are safe at. Don't let your kids come home every weekend they need to get involved have fun and meet people tell them to go join a club. If you let them come home every weekend they will never adapt and never let there hometown go they will just depend on home. And we all know you want your kids to make friends for life and have a great time doing it and get a great education too.

Alvaro

find a school that makes you feel good, that you like and try to make as many friends as you can...

Alex

Determine as early on as possible what you want to do with your life. I am now married with two children, and I am back in school earning a second bachelor's degree because I didn't enjoy what I did with my first one. The decision to return to school has caused a great deal of financial stress on my family.

Seth

Find the right college that tailors to your needs. You should do lots of research early and find the school that best fits your career path. As always, money is an issue. So you should make sure that you are finacially able to attended where it is that you apply. Apply to lots of schools. There's no harm in applying. As for making the most out of your college experience, you should find a good balance between the academic and social aspects of going to college. Academics are very, very important. After all, thats why you are here in the first place. But you should definitely find time to have a good social life. I have seen way too many students focus completely on academics. They drive themselves crazy. When I say social life it doesn't necessarily have to involve alcohol. There are many, many ways to socialize on any college campus. Find something you love to do and go with it. You have a lot of fun and make some friends in the process. But don't forget about learning. GPA is important, but you should worry about broadening horizons more than your GPA.

Betsey

Find a college that is a great compromise between what the student and the parent is looking for in higher education. It's not that important to find a college that promotes a huge social life and yet at the same time it's important to not accept a college that completely disregards it. College is a time when friends will be make that will last a lifetime. longer even than the education that you receive. However, choosing a college cannot be chosen with only a social life in mind, the academics must be strongly considered. Parents should not though try to push a college for their own personal reason, but rather should take into all account all possibilityies.