Murray State University Top Questions

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

Kalene

If i was able to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior about what college life was like, I would tell myself to apply to more scholarships. This way I would not have to take out so many loans. I would also tell myself to get involved in clubs and sports in college right away, so that way I could become an active student at my school. I believe both of these things would have helped me achieve more throughout my freshman year.

Sydney

I would encourage myself to stay motivated about school. Senior year is a tough time, but it only gets tougher. I thought college would be a breeze since it would be focused just towards my major, but I found out that I was still going to have classes I didn't want to take. I would be sure to tell myself that everything will work out how it's supposed to and not to get too stressed coming into my first semester. I would encourage myself to join a sorority because it has gained me some of the best friends I will ever have and given me a family like I have never experienced before. I would go back and tell myself that I should have worked more the summer after my senior year, instead of spending more of it with family, because college has been expensive and it would have been nice to have that saved up money. Most importantly, I would have told myself to follow my path and not let anyone tell me I can't do something or that I won't succeed at it.

Danielle

I would say to myself to not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Join the sorority, go to the huge water balloon fight on the football feild. Participate in as much as you can. Donate blood, go to church, do not judge people by what they look like, call home, and dont forget about your friends back at home. Remember when the stress gets so high because you fear you wont make the grades and all you want to do is cry, is take a deep breath, go for a walk or something to take your mind off of it, go buy a coffee, call dad, and know everything is going to be ok. Dad will remind you of that and mom will keep pushing you to not give up. Stop worrying about meeting boys and being afraid that you will never find anyone, give it time. Use common sense, DO NOT drink and drive or be in a car with someone who has been. Know that you are someone special and worthy. Your family adores you and cannot wait to see you again and neither can your friends. Take care of yourself and remember to breathe.

Alex

If I could go back in time and give my past self some advice I would say to try harder. I would make myself take the ACT again for a higher score so I would be eligible for more scholarships. I would also tell myself to keep up my grades and try harder in class so my GPA woul be higher and it also would help me be eligible for more scholarships. I also would make myself apply for more scholarships because now that I am in college I am having a hard time affording it. I might even have gone to a differnt college that was cheaper.

KaDessa

If I could go back in time I would tell my high school self to fill out as many scholarship applications as possible. College is all about getting a good education but growing up in lower middle class a little assistance is mandatory. Things can be very expensive, but not if money is being granted. I would tell myself to try and not get more than three loans, they are good for the moment but paying them back will ost likely be a hassle. Picking the right school ahead of time ca nbe very helpful because I could go and see what sort of university scholarships they have available. Trying to get money for my future education is what I would discuss with my high schoo lself.

Meagen

Don't be afraid to jump in and get involved. There are thousands of people on campus, most of which are willing to make new friends and help new students. Do not limit yourself to just your comfort zone. In college you will discover things about yourself that you never would have imagined. College is the time of your life. Leave all the restrictions of high school behind and be who you have always wanted to be. Start fresh!

jillian

Knowing what I know now, I would give myself advice about broadening my horizens and exploring new options. In highschool, I was very shy and felt like I missed out on opportunities that I could have experienced if it weren't for my fear of getting out of my comfort zone. Once I started attending college, I became more outgoing and realized that there is so many opportunities and so much to experience that you can miss out on that if you choose to not take a chance because your afraid. Because of my transition, I had the wonderful opportunity of joining a sorority and taking a study abroad trip to London. I would encourage anyone to broaden their horizens to have the chance to experience new and exciting things. Don't let the fear of leaving your comfort zone hold you back. Wonderful opportunities may pass you by and one day you may wish you had taken those opportunities.

Anna

Looking back, I would study more and try to apply myself more. I have completed a semester at the University of Kentucky so I am starting Murray State as a transfer student. Last semester was very difficult for me because in high school I never had to do much since it came so easy to me. College is a totally different story. It was a great experience and has better prepared me for what I am going to have to do to become a nurse. I would also go back and try not to stress over small things. I was always worried about the small things when in reality those things don't matter. There are many more important things in life that need my attention like school work rather than worrying about my friends.

Kelcey

When I was a senior, I wanted to go straight to a 4 year college like everyone else. I thought just going to a 2 year community college was "not cool" because it was where the not smart people went. I thought I was prepared and fully responsible for myself by moving off on my own. I did listen to my parents and go to a 2 year. I would tell myself that it is not easy as you think to live on your own. You are not ready for this. You do not even cook at home, how do you think you will feed yourself other than wasting money on fast food? Now, going to a 2 year I have learned so much responsibility. It was the best decision I have made for my future. Also to take advantage of living at home paying no bills and soak up all the "home cooking". I would tell myself that it will be worth it in the end. No regrets. I would not have to worry about how late a bill was or when to buy groceries. My faith can grow through God more as I mature into an adult.

Tyler

I would stress the importance of learning good study habits and improving my GPA. College life is so different from high school that many times students are not totally prepared for college. I would discuss the importance of learning good organizational skills, techniques to improve researching of topics and writing papers. I would explain that improving my GPA will only benefit me in the future as it opens many more doors to me. The higher the GPA, the more colleges look at you and the better chance you have of getting accepted at the one you really want to go to. It also allows you the opportunity of being eligible for more scholarships and financial aid. Which is really important as college is expensive and having some help with expenses can really make a difference in the experience of a college student. It relieves alot of burden and stress. I would really go back and change my perception as a senior and would have definitley stressed the importance of learning better study habits and organizational skills to help me as a college freshman.

Sean

There is always things you don't know, so don't go into situations thinking you know everything because chances are i won't, so it is best to sit and learn than to speak and not know what I am speaking of. Learners learn because they want to, and speaker speak because they think their word choose is important. It's better to be a learner than a speaker.

COURTNEY

I would definitley join a sorority next time. I have friends in sororities and I have seen how they have made tons of friendships this way and there is always something to do. I would try harder as a senior to obtain scholarships and look into more colleges. I went to a technical school when I graduated college and then transferred to Murray State. I would not recommend doing this because you almost never get all of your hours to transfer. Having a great social foundation is key to succeeding throughout college along with working hard and staying focused.

Kara

As a current music major, I would probably tell myself to focus more on my piano. I would tell myself to work a little harder in some specific areas of music like technique and theory to help make the transition easier. I would also tell myself not to stress so much about going to college. You are not expected to know everything going into college, and professors are usually willing to help and want to see their students succeed. I would tell myself that I would make friends, and that in my major I would feel completely at home around all the people that share my interests. I would tell myself that yes, college is hard. In many ways, it is harder than I ever expected. However, the new experiences make it all worth it. Every day you learn something new, accomplishing something new, and meet new people. It is important to work hard and make good grades. But most of all, I would tell myself that academics should not become my whole life. A's are nice, but you can still achieve them while making time for friends and extra curricular activities.

Tyler

I would tell my highschool self to keep on top of organization. Don't let old homework assignments fall to the bottom of the backpack. Don't procrastinate but make time for yourself so you'll stay rejuvinated and motivated throughout the year. Next, do NOT bring your sketch book or other books to class that could distract you from what the teacher is wanting you to learn. Apply yourself harder in terms of English and History classes but take more Art and Science classes for fun. Don't let your physical appearance get you down, even if others want you to. You're better than that and you'll find a wonderful guy. He's waiting for you and his name is Hayden. He loves you for everything you are, even though you'll become obsessed with dead things like road kill and taxidermy. You're different, but that's special. Surround yourself with positive people who accept you and who encourage you, but whom you can also encourage in their doings. Don't be so judgemental of others, especially if you want to be loved and accepted. Remember, I love you. Your mom does too.

Chad

As it stands now, I would have forewarned myself about having a much stronger science backround than I originally did, in preporation. (based on my major) I would have also warned myself be be more proficient as a paper writter, for in the early years this was done often. There were also szeveral things I was misinformed about by advising that would have saved myself major headaches and stress. Mostly about how financial aid works, graduating on time, certain requirments etc. All-in-all it has been a fabulous experience, and though I looked at other schools nad was worried I would also assure myself of the choice I would thereafter make.

Astarry

If i could go back to my senior year of high school i would tell myself to try to get as much money as possible for school. In high school i would have told myself to apply for as many scholarships as possible. Especially my my senior year i would have told myself to apply for fasfa quicker than i did.

Hannah

Do your best to make better grades.

Kamaria

I would tell myself to be prepared to be challenged and not complimented as much as I was in high school. In a lot of high schools, they say that they are prepping you for college, when in all actuality, they are not. Most public schools do not even scratch the surface of what is required of students when they get to college. So I would tell myself to study effectively in everything...Thinking critically and analyzing things that I read is very beneficial in college.

Heather

College really isn’t anything like high school. There is a lot more time to fill, so time management is a must. You really will have to sit down and study in order to do your best. Social activities are great for making friends, but you must know how to balance school and friends. Sometimes, you will have to turn down an activity in order to study, but it will work for your best if you just keep at it. Also, professors really do want you to talk to them; they have office hours for a reason. Utilize them, and you will see that they really do want you to succeed in their courses and in life. Your values and beliefs will be challenged by others; know what you stand for now so that you will not fall later. Call your parents every once in a while; they really do care and want you to do your very best. Budgets are a must; you must learn the difference between a want and a need so that you don’t get into financial trouble later. Basically, college is going to treat you like an adult, so you need to be ready.

Arin

I would tell myself not to be so worried. It was a big transition but nothing that I couldn't handle. You have to have very good time management skills and know how to pace yourself. Procrastination is not an option. I would also tell myself to get as involved as you can because all you are doing is building your resume.

Miracle

Back then when I was a high school senior, everything came easy to me. My gpa was a 3.6 and I was at the top 10{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of my class so getting into college and paying for college was really a big deal. I expected the same thing when going to college but it was the completely the opposite being that it was a heavy load when all I wanted was to be apart of numbers of programs and groups. I would tell her first that college is the greatest experience of your life because you grow up and learn about everything. Then I would describe to her that besides all that "fun", you need to take your education completely serious to avoid any dissappointements later. Study like its no ones business and focus first so after, when you relax it won't be a regret. Apply to as many scholarships that you are able because every single one, even the small amount ones, add up and you won't have to focus on money problems as much. Have friends that are optimistic in your life and avoid the ones would brind you down.

Kristina

Knowing what I know now, I would tell my self as a high school senior that college life is only as fun as you make it. In the same way, classes are only as difficult as you make them according to how much effort you put into studying and succeeding. Getting involved is also a very important aspect in enjoying college, as cliche as it may sound, because being part of greek life, intramurals, or clubs is the best way to meet great friends that share similar interests. Those are the friends worth having.

Tyla

I would definitley tell myself to seize the moment. College years fly by and there is no reason why I shouldn't take advantage of each opportunity, try new things, and make the most out of every situation. I would focus more on my relationship with Christ and networking. I would focus less on athletics/caring what people think of me. College is a time for growth and new opportunities which is critical for personal growth and life happiness.

JAMES

My advice to my younger high school self would be to go to school right out of high school. DO NOT wait thinking that working and making some money to help pay for college later will work out. Financial aid is available and get in there and get it done! I am regretting not going to school immediately right out of high school because its now harder to get back into the swing of things. Not to mention you are now the old guy in the classroom. HAHA

Tirza

If I was to go back in time and talk to my high school self about the transition into college, I'd tell myself that college and high school are hardly any different . College is only a four to six-year period of life that builds a person into whom they are going to be for the majority of their life . I would tell myself to study, be a respectful, and well rounded student, but to have fun as well. Most people make college out to be a scary endeavor, when it is only scary if one it is not prepared for it . I would tell myself to do as much as I could to get involved in my school and to have as much fun as I could while receiving the best education possible. College isn't only about studying, it is about making connections, doing good in the community, and discovering who it is you want to be in the future . All of the experiences gained in college add to one simple thing, you.

Kelsey

As an undergraduate in college, I realize just how important studying outside of class is for my success. As a high-schooler, I never really had to study to succeed in my classes because I had an above-average intelligence. If I could go back and talk to my high school self, I would convince myself to gain better study habits, because studying is a vital skill. I would also convince myself to take an advanced chemistry course and calculus course, to give myself more of an advantage in college. I would convince myself to take the ACT again, because the higher the score, the more likely it is to get good scholarships.

Katherine

The goals you set are high priorities. Those goals are the reason you have been and will continue to be successful. Focus on one goal at a time and continue to follow your heart.

Morgan

If I were able to go back and speak to my High School Senior-self, I would tell her to just keep calm. The anticipation of college living was far worse than the actual living itself. I would tell her that having a roommate in a dorm is not as bad as it seems. If she has an issue, she is not bound by a curfew or an adult telling her she cannot leave. I would tell her that classes are hard, but the university staff really cares about helping the students and making sure that they succeed, so there is no worry. I would also tell her, that while it may take a while, she will find friends that love and accept her eventually. College is not impossible if one stays on track. Homesickness is inevitable, despite the assumption that one will not experience it. But no student has died from attending college. Students are powerful creatures, but with power comes great responsibility. So the only thing to do is accept what life hands out and take it one day at a time.

Sarah

If I could go back in time and advise myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to prepare myself for the distance from friends and family, study more for my AP exams, and explore my college options more extensively to find the perfect college for me, not just wandering aimlessly until I decide on one college over another.

Martha

Dont play around come ready to work!

anna

Hey kid, You don't understand how awesome school is going to be. I would tell you more than anything to do more for people and volunteer at more places. Doing more for people is not only helpful for you but also for your YNL major. Bet you wish you knew that don't you. I'd also tell you to work harder to save money better and learn how to plan better. Organization is key, elsewise things fall by the wayside in the flurry that is a semester.

Elena

Pick your classes based on the professors that teach them. A professor can either make your class experience unforgettably great and life-changing or turn it into a dreadful struggle. Look for professors that have good ratings on ratemyprofessor.com, also ask for upperclassmen's advice on that. A good professor is one who cares enough to make sure you learn, not the one who gives away A's and B's for no reason. Building relationships with your professors can turn into life-long learning and support systems. One professor still gives me great life and career advice.

Mary

Don't be afraid to get out of your shell. Meeting new people, and try new things is part of what makes college so great. Definitely pay attention in your classes, and maintain your studies. Everyone needs to let off some steam, relax/party every now and then, but don't let that defer you from obtaining your dreams. Always be respectful to those you come into contact with, and keep a sense of professionalism. Make good relationships with people (peers, professors) because you never know who may be able to help you in the future. Don't neglect to use your resources. Take advantages of all college has to offer you. You'll make mistakes, but you'll learn from them.

Elizabeth

My advice, would be to go away for college and not stay close to home. I feel I missed opprtunites by staying at home with my family. I missed out on the life you have when you live on campus. Also not to procastinate.

Brian

Brian, I know you're tired of school right now, but in college you're going to learn more than just academics. You're going to learn some important life lessons: responsibility, love, and even how to overcome some of your shyness and work through your depression. It's going to be very hard at times, but in the end, you're going to succeed and do well, not just academically, but in your personal growth as well. Stick with it, it'll all work out. From, Future you. P.S. Don't get to broken up about Sarah, it'll hurt, but you'll eventually realize she's crazy, and not for you.

Katie

If I could back and tell my high school senior self what I know, it would to be go in undecied and that you are going to fail a couple of classes, but that is okay. Don't let family and friends pressure into doing something that you do not want to know or a major that you don't see yourself using later on.

Kelly

If I could return back to my senior year and tell myself anything, it would be to keep my head up and perservere. My first semester consisted of a very difficult time adjusting and I had trouble making friends. I would love to tell my younger self to put myself out there more in classes. I would tell myself to not give up after talking to a few people, and to look at area's that fit my hobbies more, such as: The animal shelter, the vet clinics, and even the Agriculture Farm to try and visit and maybe make friends. This would have given me the hope I needed to transition easier as well as give me something to boost my confidence and happiness much faster.

Kaleigh

Do not underestimate the amount of time needed to study. College is a completely different animal than high school. The professors vary on the amount of work required, however one thing remains the same: time. You must always allow yourself adequet time to study the materials given, even if you think the class is easy, the tests require indepth, consice answers. Knowing definitions does not cut it anymore. You must be able to take what you have learned and apply it to various situations given the class and the material covered. Although you may have lots of friends, do not let their happiness get in the way of your academic success. Declining an invitation to party or hang out should not make or break a friendship, if they are indeed your friends. True friends know that grades come first. The opportunity to attend an institue of higher learning is not available to everyone, so do not waste it!

Megan

I would tell my high school senior self be more out going, do not push animal science and college algebra aside, be more prepaired for test, do not date this person, and only spend an hour and a half preparing for the National FFA Parliamentary Procedure CDE every day. And do not be afriad to put yourself out there to meet new people.

Anna

In high school, I ended up being one of the top 10{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} percent of my graduating class. If I could go back, I would make sure to apply to as many scholarships as possible. Money has been the biggest issue of college for me. I have had to work all the time it seems and live at home. Paying for gas is such a big expense these days plus I have to drive an hour to get to MSU on the days I come to school. In high school, I would have joined a lot more clubs instead of just one ot two. I look now at people from high school that have already graduated and I want so much to be like them. But. money has caused a problem and delayed some of my schooling. Looking back, I should have been doing a lot more than just thinking about my weekend plans. I would tell myself that college is the most important thing and would help me out so much in my future plans and goals.

Mallory

I would tell myself to stop stressing out. As long as it is an informed decision and you get involved on campus, you will fall in love with your college. If not transferring is not that bad, no matter how bad your college experience is , it could always be worse. College is about finding yourself and that's exactly what you will do on campus.

Brittany

I would tell myself not to pick your school just basing it off your major you will think you will want to do. Don't lose motivation and if there is something you really want to persure go for it. I wish I would've got the opportunity to dance in college and took advantage of more opportunities at an earlier time.

Layne

Layne: Start out with a major in Occupational Safety and Health. You might not know it now, but you will enjoy it. This will save you some time. Join the Murray State University Rowing Team, and enjoy it as much as possible while it lasts. Join Sigma Sigma Sigma, and really get involved. These two organizations will give you life long friends and long lasting memories. Don't try to do everything; it is impossible for anyone to accomplish. Really make the most out of what you learn in college. It will help you out later on. Good luck! I know you'll do well.

Ethan

The most important thing I would tell myself to do in college is to get involved in activities and clubs because it will make the rest of college easier and much more enjoyable.

Andrea

There are so many peices of advice that i could give to my high school self, so many things i wish someone would have told me. If I could give just one peice of advice to myself senior year of high school I would tell myself to be wiser in my decisions. Take the time to think everything through clearly, dont rush into any decision making small or large. Nothing is secret forever be sure to think before you speak because a bad reputation can be made in a minute and take a lifetime to correct. Take your time choosing classes, churches, friends, boyfriends, and even clothes these are all things that you may regret so choose carefully. Above all else be wise in deciding who keeps your company. It is the people you are near the most that you are the most like. So no matter the decision at hand take your time, think, and choose wisely.

Leia

If I were to go back in time I would tell myself to try to become more outgoing. One difficult aspect for me during the transition to college from high school was making new friends. I had become so accustomed to the people in my hometown that it was a shock to realize there are more people out there and hard to choose which ones I liked. Not only was I changing my environment and stepping out of my comfort zone but now going to college I had to meet completely different people and have them like me.

Killian

I would tell myself to be more social at the start of my college career, because the friends you make in college will more than likely be the friends you will have for life. I would also tell myself to buckle down and study hard, because although college can be academically challenging, it is worth it in the end to work hard and study dilegently. The last thing I would tell myself would be to keep up on applying for scholarships and do my best to fund my education and my future.

Miriam

Even though graduation from high school was only months ago, I feel as if it was years. I was very nervous about going to college, meeting new friends, living in a dorm room, and handling classes. If I could go back and give myself tips and advice there are many things that I would say. One of the most important things to do while in college is to get involved. All you have to do is follow your interests and be willing to put in time and effort. By getting involved on campus, you automatically make new friends and connctions. Being involved allows you to create memories and gain skills that otherwise you would never have the opprotunity to do. I would also tell myself to be organized with keeping classes, activies, and homework in check. While in college, I have found that it can be very tempting to hang out with friends, instead of study or write a paper. I would tell myself that sometimes you have to say no, since you are going to college to get a quality education. There will always be time to hang out with friends after.

Samantha

I would tell myself to work harder, to push myself to be the best that I could be. My ignorance in high school has caused alot of ripples in the transition. Get involved in more activities, time management skills are crucial to college success. Try to get a feel for handling personal finances. If you start saving now you will worry less about finances later. Make your web of personal and professional contacts bigger, because no matter what you do with your life, support even in small amounts can make a big difference. Be happy with who you are and who you want to be. Even if you are unsure of what you want to do with your future, be happy with all the steps you take. Live with no regrets the past is the past and the future is the future, they call this time the present because it is a gift.

Reannon

I would tell my self to study more. not to let anything get in my way and to always do my best.