Montclair State University Top Questions

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

Katie

If I could go back in time to speak to the highschool me I dont know if I would have a lot to say. I would make sure to tell myself that I shouldnt worry about making friends, and that the right ones will come to me. I would say be open to new experiences but don't make dumb decisions. I'd give myself the tips about getting around off campus and remind myself that the library is open 24 hours a day and to use it before I was a Junior!!! I would just assure myself that everything would be ok, I wouldnt still be me, and if i ever needed help to go to the resources on campus right away! The number one thing would be that I needed to know everone else is going through the same thing, so just keep your mind focused , and learn to DESTRESS!

Maxine

As an middle aged college student, I would tell myself to stay in school. It is a lot easier to learn when you have less responsibilities. I find that juggling a family, career and scholol take a lot of adjusting to make sure nothing is missed. Had I stayed in school when I was younger I would be in a different position in life and not struggling to make ends meet. As I grow I stree to my children the importance of a good education. Never take for granted that it will always be available and not put off tomorrow what can be done today.

isabella

If I was able to go back to high school I would, work much harder. I really did not take advantage of how easy the work was. I also would have requested better guidance from my counselors because I did not get beneficial help at my high school to better my future. Many of the rules and regulations that my high school possessed also did not make sense or really equally apply to each student. I would have tried to fight against their rules more. However, I do not regret anything I did throughout high school. I was very involved in the extracurricular activities that they offered and would not take those experiences back. I would just change the type of classes that I took. I took many classes that my guidance recommended to me because they believed it would benefit me however, they only hurt my GPA and did not help to bring it up.

Daniel

Do not go to University of Hartford.

Johanel

I'd tell myself to take afternoon or night classes, so I don't have to worry about waking up early or ever being late to a class. Also to utilize Ratemyproffessor.com when it comes to choosing classes. Finally just stay focused and avoid all distractions college life has to offer.

Courtney

BE PERPARED!! I came into college not knowing to much. I wish i knew more then i knew. Research.... really look into the major you want. And make sure you know what you really want to do. Montclair is a big teaching school.. I would make sure I knew exactly what i wanted to teach.. That pushed me back because i stressed myself out too much in my original major that now I am going to be behind. make sure you really look into what you want to do for the rest of your life. Also research financial aid, make sure you know exactly what you are signing and know that in the end it may cost you and you want to make sure you are getting the right education for every dollar you spend. TIME MANAGEMENT!!! make sure you know that you are going to have to learn how to juggle your social life, your home life and all your school work. That was a big stress factor my first year I wish I was better at it even now, I am still not good with time management! GOOD LUCK its all worth it in the end!!

Francine

The advise I would give myself is, to do more research on the schools of interest. If I had to do it all over again and I have that chance now in a way, I would read up on the schools, ask questions, go visit the schools, find out what campus life is like and look for scholarships and other funding for school, even when pepole tell you that you are not smart enough to get a scholarship. I would tell myself not to listen to other people, even family and follow your heart, instincs and passion for what you want to do in life.

isabella

I would have worked harder towards getting a better GPA. I did not fully understand or take advantage of how simple and easy high school work was. I did do well however, I know that I could have done much better. Besides that I have no regrets.

Jaclyn

Work hard and make sure that you get the accommodations you need. In large classes take advantage of your alert form acommodations. Don't take tests w/a large class. You can take them separately.

Johanel

Make sure you manage you're time well. Avoid morning classes and use Ratemyproffessor.com when picking classes.

Diana

You are correct in your assumption that you will receive a heavier load of homework, but fright not. You have days to complete the homework. Finish the homework piece by piece every day so you do not feel overwhelmed. You are wrong if you think you will endure living with a roommate. You sleep early and you need silence?you will not find a roommate that matches your needs. Find off-campus housing that is provided across the street and keep your all-you-can-eat meal plan. For having a single room and kitchen, it is cheaper than dorming. Interact with your professors. Participate in discussions, answer questions and sum up courage to ask questions--this way, the professor knows your name and face and marks you as a serious student. In the cafeteria, take your food and plop down in a table where someone is already sitting. Have a conversation and you will make a friend. The same goes for class. Sit where you wish and offer you name and hand to the one sitting next to you. Through this one friend, you meet tens of other people. Through this one friend, you gain a sense of community.

Christian

Finding the right college is like finding the right pair of shoes. You want them to represent who you are, what you like, and above all you want them to be comfortable. It is imperative to do the most research possible on any school you are planning on attending. Many students find that certain school simply do not suit them because they lack some of the students needs. Based on majors offered, and reputations in certain fields, some schools may be better suited for some students. Because of this, it is important for the student to make sure that the college choice offers a wide variety of majors and courses because not all students are completely sure of what they would like to study. So picking a school offering degrees in many fields is important. If looking to have the most fun at school, then the student must be willing to put in the effort. Any school can be fun, as long as the student is willing to socialize and become a part of the campus community. Making the most out of the college experience depends on how much effort the student is willing to put in.

Medji

Parents and students that are in the process of finding the right college should definitely visit the college. It is important that they do so that there are not any suprises in the end. In addition, they should visit it more than once. I think that visiting a college at least 3 times is a good way to see the college a different perspective. ex: visit when school is and isnt in session and throughout the year. It will give you an idea as to how the campus is when it snows, or when it rains, how does that affect campus activities. These can be important issues that can help narrow down your college choices. Always try the food that is very important and spend a weekend if possible on campus. Nevertheless, what I believe is the MOST important of all of these, is that both parents and student check out the surrounding neighborhood of the school. Do you like a secluded campus, or the kind of campus where businesses are conveniently close. I believe that this can really impact the overall experience of a college student.

Sam

You need to follow your heart and where it tells you to go. No one's words of wisdom will be enough to sway and/or persuade your own will. These prospective students need to go out there and see for themselves; experience the college way of life and then you'll realize what a struggle it is, what a great time it is, and what a rollercoaster ride it is sometimes. It's almost as if you're affected by every single event that occurs day after day, but that may also be defined as life, would it not? So in the end, it is up to the students to see where they're pulled and where their minds may make the most out of themselves. In a world like today's, everyone needs an education, but au contraire to what many say and think, an education is what you make of it. Not another person in the world can tell you otherwise; it's up to you.

Jacque

The best way to make the most out of your college is experience is to search for a college that is good for your needs. For example, the cost of living on or off campus, how much aid will you be receiving? The location of the college will I be able to get a job on or off campus to make ends meet. How far is it from home and family? Does the college have programs and internships geared towards me being successful in my major? These are some questions to take into consideration. After you have made your decision for the college of your choice the best thing is to go to that college with an open mind to new experiences religions, races and ethnic backgrounds Embrace all of the changes and new experiences and you will be fine. Make sure to keep your focus it's alright to get involed socially but if it affects your academic progress then it's a problem. Social activities will be come and go all of the time but your academics is the blueprint for your future. College is costly so don't waste time make the best out of it

Jaymi

I would advice parents and/or students to visit their prospective campuses and learn as much as they can about the school in question. Find out what the climate is like year-round, what the rooms are like, the teachers, the classes, the population, the food, and more; it's a very important and marvelous experience, and to make the best choice you need to have all the information you can get. Knowing all of this will also help you make the most of your college experience. The more you strive to learn about your college, the more people you'll meet, students and faculty alike, and it is a plus to become a recognizeable, friendly face. Give your peers and teachers your absolute best; after going for the best school for you, it is only fair to offer the same back to the campus. Be proud of where you learn, and make your school proud to have you.

Mike

When picking your school i believe you got to look at your self and ask how far away do i want to be from home. Its tough for the first month getting use to any new place and its always nice to go home. Then you ask yourself what you want out of school? Do you want a big school or a little? Do you want a lot of down time or be busy with things to do? Where you go there be people you can find you like. The question is weather the place is the right feel for you. You know as a junior in high school your looking for but u may not be at the right school for you first pick so like many people transfer, but there is always a school out here that i right for everyone.

Granville

I would say while finding the right college to become a "holistic" researcher. Don't ignore details and overlook figures because they may come back to haunt you later. Explore as much choices as you have. Don't make rash decisions and rush in head first. It may be overstated but exploring now will benefit in the end. Also at college, don't allow the "spirit" of college (procrastination and lack of care) to take over. Studying and making use of the free time isn't difficult, it just requires the right balance of time and effort.

Molly

I would say to go visit each and every school you are considering going to. Once visiting get a feel for the school and its people and community. The community will make a big difference, as will the surrounding opportunities. I would factor in the major you want but not make it the priority. It is very important to enjoy the school more and meet a lot of people. I would suggest being involved in many clubs and taking advantage of every opportunity you can, especially the first year of college. Meeting people will be very beneficial for later in life and having connections is never a bad thing. Its important to take advantage of your opportunities living close to so many people your age. At the end of the day, it is still important to find a balance between fun and school to take care of your future schooling or job. I also suggest studying abroad for at least a semester at some point. It goes fast, so live it up!

Andrea

Make sure you look into the major that you would like to go for and the accomodations the school has to offer as well as the tuition and payment throughout the years after calculated

Shawna

Definately do your research. If distance allows you to, visit the school and visit it often. At peak times and off-peak times. I live out of state and at my school a lot of students went home on the weekends so if you weren't friends with everyone on campus, there's a lot of weekends that there's nothing to do. Also talk to students, personally, who have been there for a year or two. Don't base everything on one person because that one person may have had a bad experience but get ideas from a few different students.

Jessica

Picking the right college can be difficult, but I found that as I was deciding where to go, it was all very much about what my best fit was. Just because a school is prestigous doesn't necessarily mean it is the place for you. In order to figure out what your best fit is, it's important to visit the schools you were accepted and ask as many questions as you have about the school and campus, especially things that are most important to you. And be sure you don't just ask faculty. Find students to talk to who will answer your questions. That is the best way to get honest, un-biased answers. Once you have chosen your school and you get started, try not to limit yourself. Push your boundaries and go outside your comfort zone a little to make friends and find things to get involved with, but that doesn't mean letting yourself be pressured. Have fun and discover new things about yourself, but stay true to who you really are and you will have a great college experience.

Elisha

Finding the right college starts by knowing who you are, so you know where you will fit. Developing into the unique person you were created to be is the first step to finding out what you are here to do. As you become an upperclassman in high school, and you mature as a person, this is the time to start focusing in on your passions and desires. "What do you like to do?" and "What subjects you study, activities you participate in, and services that you provide bring you the most satisfaction?" should be questions you ask yourself. Once you become aqcuainted with who you are as a person, and have an idea of what you want to do for the rest of your life, set goals and start planning how you are going to reach those goals. Choose a major that will lead you to your overall career goal. Now start finding colleges that have this major, that agree with the beliefs you have, and that have activities that you enjoy. Carefully decide on a college. Once you arrive at your college meet people and make friends with people that will support you in the pursuit of your goals.

Joseph

Senior year of high school is a year that many say they will never forget, and many say they never want to leave. While senior year can seem easy, it is only to make up for the stressors that preparing for the next stage of your life bestows upon you. Applying to college requires a lot of planning; first choose a region that you want to attend college in. Second, if you have a major in mind, within that region try to find the top schools for that field. Then start researching those schools, don?t be afraid to ask guidance counselors or teachers, they can be very knowledgeable. See what people think of the schools? reputations, when applying for jobs after college a school?s reputation can be an important factor, usually schools that are known throughout the country are good choices (Ohio State). Then go visit the schools, try to find a common way to rate each school, and pick your top schools from that. Also make a list for each school you plan on applying to with all the requirements and deadlines. Don?t procrastinate; try to show initiative by sending in all required forms on time.

rachael

I would recommend that you should absolutely visit as many campuses as possible, even those that might seem out of your budget. Taking the time to ask questions and physically be at the campus is so crucial because you're less likely to be surprised once school starts. State schools tend to offer many benefits to in-state students, and often have many scholarships available. Getting a well rounded liberal arts education leads to an overall better student, and will give the student more opportunities to experience a variety of subjects and coursework. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there once you get to school. Join an organization that seems interesting, but don't overload too much you don't want to take away from your studies. College is everything you make it, go in with a positive outlook and good work ethic and you will reap many benefits!

Jamie

No matter the program you seek, picking a college is all about finding the right fit for you. When you visit a college take a look around and see if this is where you feel comfortable and where you belong. Try not to let others influence your choice in a school, only you know what is right for you. Get involved on campus in a club or organization. This will not only help with the adjustment of being in a new place, it will introduce you to new friendships that will last a lifetime. College is about figuring out who you are without being judged, about becoming a whole person. Take advantage of every opportunity you can. Focus on your classwork, but keep in mind that it is only a small portion of your collegiate experience. The things you will learn in and out of the classroom will not stick only for four years, but for a lifetime. But the best advice anyone can give - take pictures, it goes too fast.

Jason

As long as the university allows flexibility and offers a diverse range of activities there should be nothing to worry about.

Bianca

Start researching school as early as possible so that you can have time to visit the campuses, talk to current students and staff, and way your options. Pick a school that best fits your personal wants and needs because your are going to school for yourself, not anyone else.

Julie

I would tell parents and students that when finding the right college, doing research is essential. Mindlessly applying to various schools is not the right way to go. There are many college searches to see what is right for you. I had picked Montclair based on the cost, the size of the school, and the wonderful education programs they have. It is important that if the student knows his/her major, they should look for a school which best suits it and in turn it can possibly help them with internships. I would suggest that by making the most of the college experience students should attend as many events on campus as possible. I would recommend students always to live on campus so that they can not only get the full college experience, but to also prepare them for what it will be like living on their own when they eventually move out from their homes. I feel from my own experience, living on campus has taught me overall responsibility and how to balance my time. But I would definitely suggest that all students should take advantage of all the campus has to offer.

Dan

On the verge of concluding my teenage years and moving on to a new chapter in my life, I have a sole grasp on a successful adventure into the world of selecting colleges and dealing with both social and academic affairs within it thus far. Upon searching for the appropriate college to attend, students must address certain situations that may not occur to them until enroled in an institution. Such situations include, comfortability and a sense of resiliency or adjustment to unfamiliar circumstances. Student must be, hands down, 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} comfortable in their new enviroment. Selecting an institution based on its reputation as a party school should not be essential. I find that many of my peers transfered out of their "party schools" and settled in a place that better suited their desires and comfort level. This coincides with their ability to demonstrate resiliency. When this student is placed in a new, post-high school setting known as "the real world," they must know how to bounce back from difficult grading or a rough semester. This resiliency will ultimately help them develope into a stronger individual and strengthen their will to further succeed once positioned in their desired field of study.

Mone

Make sure you visit each school and ask alot of questions, the more you know the better.

Jae

Do your research in the schools of your choosing on what fields there are strong, sign up for any and all scholorships you are allegeable for and choose your major carefully according to your interests and less with what your parents and/or economy dictates.

Chelsea

The best advice I could give is to talk to people who have gone to the school you're looking at (and I don't mean your tour guide). I would suggest just walking around campus on any given day during the year, just to get the general vibe of the school. Don;t be afraid to walk up to people and ask them how the feel about the school. Just tell them you're a prospective student and you want to know want campus life is like. Most people won't have any problem answering. Once you're in college, don't be afraid to join in school activities that are relevant to your interests. It's the best way to make friends on campus.

Nichole

If you are financial capable to choose the college of your choice, choose a college that will give you the best fit for your intended major and social aspirations and go some where that will allow you to experience life. If finance does not permit you to choose the school of your choice, then buckle down, do your research and choose a school that will fits into your education and career goal but also gives you the best opportunity to finish your education in reference to financial aid, distance from your support system and opportunities for work study and such. Keep in mind that all of this choice will be moot if you don?t make preparation as soon as possible to enable you to have any choice. Start early with your application process. Keep in mind your GPA and SAT/ACT scores are very important as well as being able to exhibit that you are a well rounded, moral and generous person.

Elizabeth

Apply to as many colleges as possible the first time. Go to any open houses that happen (preferably during the school year and during the week) because you can get a feel for how the campus is on a typical day.

Brooke

Choose your major carefully and quickly. It's really expensive to go an extra year or two because of a bad or hasty decision, so follow your heart and look deeply into the program you are applying to. It seems that often, schools will try to pursade you with things that are not all that true or that will not always apply to you. Also, if you plan to live on campus, think about applying to be an Resident Assistant. It's a very rewarding expereince, and your housing is free! I learned more by being an RA than I did in most classes. As far as finding the right college, cost is a consideration buut don't make your decision based only on cost. Make sure that you can see yourself there for 4 years and that it has the right programs for you and your interests. Transferring is always an option, but it costs more and will take you longer to graduate. Best of luck!

Elaine

Be sure that you really want to go to the college you choose. Check for andy scholarships available to you because paying for tuition can be pretty rough sometimes! And take advantage of any oritentations or programs that will help incoming freshman get used to the school and meet other students. Get out there and have fun! Don't stay cooped up in your room.

Jessica

Let your child decide what school they want to go to. Also make sure that you look at ALL of your choices and do not just settle for one based on fraternaties or parties. Also, when you do go look at schools. talk to people. It really hels.

Yvonia

Make sure they do a very thorough search on some colleges in mind. Once they find the right college to fit their needs and future career get involved in school activities and support any teams representing their school. They can meet many friends this way and possibly find new interests. Also percrastination is something that should be avoided at all times to help take the stress off students which also gives more productive papers.

Roy

fine one that challenges you enough, but at the same time allows you to have a social life, without the dangers of alcohol and such. encourage them to take part in sports that they enjoyed int high school.

Shaeen

When choosing a college it is best to visit first. It is also good to ask around to see how good of school it is. It is best to do a little research on the college first. As a student living on campus it is a must so it is best to make sure that every students will get housing. A safe enviroment is best for a students but also it is good to have a fun environment.

Kory

I have had an interesting college experience. I started off at Albright College in Reading, PA then transferred to Montclair State after changing my major sophomore year. After being accepted into Montclair State, the only school in New Jersey with a music therapy program, I once again changed my major. If I could provide any advice for parents and students about finding the right college and making the most of their college experience, it would be the following: Don't limit yourself. Look for a school that gives room for their students to explore and change majors if need be without losing credits Try to find a school that ensures the best financial aid possible Don't solely make a decision based on financial aid If social life is an important aspect of your campus experience, look for a school with a variety of student organizations Research program requirements before committing to a specific major Visit the college and try to get honest opinions from current students

Sean

find a school that is comfortable for the student and he/she will persue their major in that has a good course outline.

Elizabeth

Pick a college that is worth your time. Don't pick it because of the way it looks or how the people look. If it is going to benefit you in the long run choose it.

marcia

be patient. make sure yo make the right choice or else the changes you make can cost you more money than you orgianlly hoped to sepnd. have fun and be careful not to stray away from the academic responsibilities.

Peter

Regardless of what major you're going for, the most important thing to look for is balance. It is true that too much is anything can be bad for you and school is no exception to this. Sacrificing social time for academics and vice versa, among other things, will leave the student unsatisfied until he/she finds the middle point of the two. It is entirely up to the student, regardless of school, to make the best of the time alotted. It is true that the majority of college picking is about name and reputation, however with the falling economy and rising price of college, it is best that students get the most of their money. Again, one must find balance between the affordability of the school vs. its academic prowess, post-college life, and of course reputation. Finally, don't be shy. Go out and ask around for information about schools, and after finding the school of your choice, visit it and ask around campus about the life there. After all, knowledge is power.

MAZEDA

THIS IS A GREAT COLLEGE ..JUST STAY FOCUS WITH CLASSWORK.

Mone

You learn so much in college , i feel college shapes you into the person i am today. It brings out your creative side and opens your eyes to so many views and aspects on life.

Kristen

Make sure you feel comfortable with whatever school you choose. Make sure it has your major or anything that you're interested in studying. Remember that if you realize you don't fit in at the school you're in, you can always transfer.

Deirdre

The greatest decision that I made in regards to my college life was to live on campus. Living in the residence halls opened up so many possibilities for growth, responsibility, activities, and really being part of a community. It is so wonderful to be so close to all of your classes, yet feel you have your own place to live. In my case, 95{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of my friends from college were from the residence halls and organizations, NOT from my classes, and making friends is absolutely CRUCIAL to having a successful and enjoyable college experience. Besides that, chose a school which offers very good financial aid. Also, in my case it was close to home, yet far enough to feel like I was somewhere new. Having your major available is important too! The school did have my major, which I chose during high school and saw through to the end. Make the most out of your college experience by working on-campus and joining student-run organizations. As for me, I started an organization as its President, and even studied a semester abroad in Japan. Independent studies were also offered. In the end, choose the school that will work for you.