New Jersey City University Top Questions

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

Erica

Dear self, never be afraid to take chances. College life is scary but stay focused on the vision and we will be fine. What's most important is for you to stay focused on what you want and not whats best for everyone else. Everyone will have hopes, wishes and aspirations for you but follow your initial desire. Your instincts are awesome.

R

I would tell myself is to hang in there because you're too smart to just work a labor job for the rest of your life. As a high school senior my mindset was to just get a job and make money because I thought college was too expensive. Sitting for hours on end to conquer a video game, drinking, and hanging out was also expensive and a waste of time. I went to community college because my mom told me to, dropped out when I found a job making a lot of money, and went back because I learned making money wasn't as important as finding a job that I look forward waking up to. I would also tell me to believe in yourself, don't second guess your desires, and don't be afraid to stand out. I spent so much time knowing I was different and trying to blend in that I wasted time and talent being afraid. It took me a while to get to that point where I can grow and love myself so I would give senior me this advice and say it would save a lot of heartache.

leandra

In my personal experience and observations, i would tell myself not to procrastinate anything,be more organised and research as much as you can. Also, apply to as many scholarships as you can. Never take a day off when it comes to scholarships and reseaching about school. Furthermore, look at as many colleges as you possibly can even colleges that you think were to far fetched. Moreover, take a lot more pictures because once high school is gone you never get it back.Additionaly,set up college tours to all the schools that you are interested your junior year instead of senior year. Finally, apply for hesaa,fafsa and colleges as early aspossible, do not wait until last minute to do so.

Kisha

Dear Graduate I know it feels strange saying I'm not a freshman anymore . Well you are now contemplating whether to go to college or go straight into the workforce. As you walk through your halls you think back to a time where no mattter how long you walked you still can't see the end. You are now the young adult you dreamed of but the future is now what you fear. You have been through the rain, snow, and scaled mountains. You have stared down the complexity of math , the cycle of science, the nuts and bolts of history, and the beauty of the english language,. I applaud you for completing community service and recieving honorable mention to separate times. You held strong through the hspa and the sats. With your cap and gown in hand and your yearbook on your desk , remember that college is the introduction to the real world and always be informed..

Myles

make sure you look fo more scholarships and have people who support you around you

Lawrence

My experience at New Jersey City University College so far is a pleasant one. I referred to the school as refreshing. Being that it is my first year, I am classified as a freshman. Being that I am an adult, I say " Im refreshing." That's the most value, knowing that knowledge is there for the taking, understanding that the recession created a competitive mindstate so we have adapt and improve on our attributes. This experience will give me the chance to work on these neccessities.

nelson

I have gained a greater sense of responsibility and organization. Along with these attributes, I have learned to become more disciplined. Overall a better person and more intelligent.

shawna

I started college years ago, and obtained my Biology Degree. In 1996, a BS, I thought was the only degree I needed. Since then, life happened, two kids, and laid off from a great job I have had for 10 years, I am starting over. College is a second chance, I am learning. It is a chance of new possibilities, new beginnings. My new degree will help me help people. I want to make the world a better place, cure sickness, cure my son from his disabilities. I want to reflect on my life in 40 years and be happy that I have made a difference in this world. It is a world of endless possibilities, starting over, beginning again.

Tori

I've been in attendance at York Technical Institute since May 2010 and my program (Computer Systems Specialist) will run until Feb. 2012. Honestly, since the first day I started, I had my doubts about this program, and what I could actually get out of it: it's not like me to question myself, or second guess my abilities, but I knew absolutely NOTHING about computers beyond how to open applications, and web browsers, I honestly thought I was in over my head, and I wasn't sure if I could handle it at first....but I'm more than happy to report that inspite of all the challenges, and obstacles, I've been succeeding in my classes, and have since developed a ever-growing love for computers, and the related field!! I'm really enjoying talking to classmates, and socializing with higher term students about their various specialties, and skills in the computer, and IT related fields of study, and I'm learning so much everyday, that when I go home at the end of day, I can laugh to myself knowing that soon, I'm gonna be every bit as knowledgeable as those other guys are!!

Melanie

I have been taught that by going to college I recieve more money for the same postion then if I had not gone. It also opens up doors that otherwise would be closed to me giving me more opportunities. It shows you things that you didn't even know you were interested in and allows you to imagine a whole new future for yourself.

christina

Out of my college experience, i have learned to become more responsible in decision making. Unlike highschool, the learning enviroment is more intense and at a moderate rate.

Abiodun

This is a very competitive world. You need to work very hard to stand out. What makes you unique from everyone else? your drive, your motivation, your determination and achievements. Work hard while enjoying yourself and you will have everything you ever wanted. 4 years is not long. Just close your eyes and finish. You will love the woman you become. There are many great things that we experience in the future, just you wait and see. Learn now play later. Fun and freedom will come. You need to find a balance between the two. Know what is important. There is nothing wrong in enjoying your life as a college student but never forget what's important. The main goal of a college student is to get a college education. If its money you are worried about apply for a couple scholarships. The higher your GPA and SAT scores, the more scholarships you will qualify for. Do not let your new found freedom deter you. Do not get overwhelmed Trust me there are a lot of pluses to staying on the right path. Start your journey in this direction and you will see exactly what I mean. ?

zahirah

I f I could talk to myself as a high school senior, I would start by expressing the extreme importance of education. I would suggest getting a mentor or taking college prep classes in order to prepare myself for the transition from highschool to college life. My high school didn't give alot of information on college selection and what to expect, so I would also have suggested finding information about different colleges and areas of study that interested me. I would have said to never give up even when things seemed to get difficult, because the reward would certaintly out weigh the hard times. I would also ask myself where I wanted to be in the next five years, and what exactly did I expect to get out of the college experience. That would be important to know in order to say on track and focused throughout the college experience.

Lynette

As a high school senior, I had become accustomed to the drama and petty problems of high school. However, I would have to tell myself that in college, the atmosphere is more relaxed. People are more open to making new friends, and do not often form cliques and talk badly about someone behind their back. I would advise myself to be open in the same way, and not to immediately judge people. I would tell myself to go ahead and strike up a conversation with the cute guy in psychology class or not to be afraid to sit with someone new at the cafeteria that I had met through a class or club. I woudl also go back and tell myself not to try to be someone completely different in college. For many people it is a "fresh start" but you still have to be true to yourself. Your personality will show through eventually. I would tell myself that it is okay to be a quiet, modest, and quirky person and that I didn't need to be fake in order to make friends. You will meet the right people eventually if you just be yourself.

Zulayca

In high school, I took for granted the ease by which I passed my classes. I surpassed most of my expectations of success without so much as a worry that I could fail. When I did have a moment of anxiety, there was always that realization that my teachers could help me out of a sticky situation with extra credit. Unfortunately, I carried these bad habits into college. As academically prepared as I was for college, I was not at all prepared for the responsibility of the course load and what was expected of me. As welcoming and as understanding as my professors were, they could not halt their lives to accommodate my irresponsibility. I would definitely tell myself to concentrate more on my studies and take ownership of what was expected of me rather than trying to find an easy way out. While the easy way seems like the way to go, the harder (and correct) way, will help you build character and give you more to be proud of in the long run. I would also tell myself that without the gym the "freshman 15" can turn into the "freshman 30" very quickly!

Edith

In your first year of college, your parents will separate, and even though it seems like the end of your world, you cannot let it get you down. You have too much at stake to sink into, "What does it matter, Dad's gone." You have your honor as one of the eldest of your generation of kids, you have your scholarship at the school, you have your friends, and you have your talent as an artist and your potential career as an illustrator, and face it: you've had eighteen years with both of your parents before this happened, while others have not had that, or any of this, not to mention lousy parents. Don't you dare get depressed and give up. You know better than that. Mom and Dad taught you well, and you'll need that resolve to get you through.

Elysse

As a high school senior, I was pretty depressed and confused. When it came to my college applications, I felt completely lost because I wasn't sure if I would be happy anywhere. If I could give any advice to my old self, it would be to do more research and to follow your heart. I chose Rutgers University because I had convinced myself to study psychology because I was worried about not making enough money in the future if I were to pursue zoology. Making that choice brought me little satisfaction during my first year of college. Now I know that I should have chosen a school that not make me a number out of thousands of others. I am also now aware that I am much happier since I am finally going for my dream of working with animals. My last piece of advice would be to not regret the mistakes I make. Although I spent my first year of college in unhappy circumstances, I wouldn't take back that whole experience. I learned a lot about myself and I will carry that knowledge with me for the rest of my life.

Jennifer

If I could somehow go back to my senior year in high school knowing what I know now about college, I would tell myself that college life can be fun and exciting and very worthwhile. I would remind myself that I should not be scared or worried about the experience and can look forward to meeting new people and forming long-lasting friendships. Also, I would tell myself that the professors are like my high school teachers and may not always be able to help every student , but there are other ways to get help. For the most part, students have their peers, who are sometimes more knowledgeable and have experienced a similar situation before. Also, the different departments within the school are valuable sources of information. The key is persistence and desire. My experience, thus far, has reinforced the saying, "Where there's a will, there's a way" within my mindset.

Joshua

If I could talk to myself i would tell myself, to make sure that everything is in order for college before u start there. I will also tell myself to have faith in myself and not let the bad times get me distracted from reaching my dreams. I would say that everything happens for a reason and whatever does come, i should be thankful for it. I would tell myself, do not let anyone take your happiness away. I would tell myself if things get bad, keep my head up and have faith in God.

anam

college life is so mprecious life,for that time my advice would be that time is money use it dont waste time on such stupid activities who will be harmful for us in the future and have to take power decision and be determined on your aims and ambitions ....

Nanette

To find the right college you have got to look at location, finance, and class size or size of the college. If you are the type of student who can sit in class have your professor lecture and no discussion occurs, then a larger school with at least 200 poeple per class is what you want. Finding the right school is tought but you have to know who you are and what you want to be in life. if you know your major you can go to a school that concentrats in that. If you like being surrounded with things to do go to a city school. If you like the quite wooded area go to a small town school.

Jaime

The advice that I would give parents/ and or students about finding the right college is to take into consideration the diversity, price, provided majors, location, and campus activites.

Maarium

I would advise parents to be open minded about what their children choose to do with their futures and to be supportive. And most importantly, never make your child feel like there is something they cannot do or that what they choose is not good enough. Encourage your children to follow their own dreams, not yours. For all the students out there looking for the right college, keep in mind that the "right college" doesn't always have to be an Ivy League college. Sometimes the smallest and least expensive colleges can be just right for you. Most importantly, whatever decision you make, be sure it is for the right reasons, and be sure it is what YOU want.

Alyson

The advice I would give to a parent and/or student about finding the right college would be to start early in their search. Not only is it important to have an early awareness about what career choice he or she may want to enter, but by visiting schools early and meeting with various councelors, students, and staff, the student will be able to make an appropriate decision that will have an impact on the rest of their lives.

Amanda

Make sure to visit the campus and get a feel for the atmosphere on the college of interest. Be sure to get involved in activities going on, on campus.

David

The right college for your child is the college that is affordable , but perfect for your child's major. Depending on the major that they choose, it is best to send them to a college renowned for educating students in that particular subject. Your college choice should really be based on how your child is personally, if they are trustworthy, and what career they wish to pursue.

Denise

I would advise them to visit the schools they are interested and to ask a lot of questions especially to the students who attend. Also, if you do end up at a school that is not your top choice, try to make the most of your college expereince by trying new things and meeting people and by continuing to do things you like.

Maryann

Explore your choice of schools inside out. In addition to a campus tour, visit their website, learn about accessing the library at home, visit the financial aid office, the bursars office, and most importantly - talk to current students. Visit the cafeteria and ask them about the culture of the school, and what a typical day consists of. How far of a walk are the dorms to the library, classes, and social activities? Also, be sure you are comfortable with the distance of the school and getting back home. Are you okay with the drive, or flying home? Where will you do your laundry? Most of all, what type of counseling services does this school offer you towards planning your future? You will be a student there, as well as a customer, so keep in mind the services you would like to receive in turn for your tuition.

Raymond

I would say to start looking for ways to pay for college at the start or your Junior year in Highschool, and really go and visit the colleges that you are considering going to even if they are out of state. And if you have your heart set on a school thats out of state but are a little nervous about leaving family behind and living on your own, just go for it and everything else will fall into place. Follow your dreams.

Jennifer

Its a good college if you have money.

David

There are a lot of colleges that have great potential for academic success. Knowing what environment and type of people that your son or daughter does well in is crucial. While college is becoming extremely expensive, that should not be a deciding factor. In my personal experience, the more expensive colleges have provided a much better and more solid education. I regret chosing a less expensive alternative after attending a well respected, private university.