Nicholls State University Top Questions

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

Destyni

I would give myself the advice of plenty of things. The first piece of advice I would give myself is to try to study even though my classes were simple and it was unneccesary. I would offer myself this piece of advice because that is what I struggle with now. Also, I would give myself the advice of learning how to manage my money. I know that I would not spend my money the correct way and I am now trying to fix that. The last bit of advice I would give myself is to never procrastinate and to manage your time wisely.

Kelcie

Going into my freshman year of college, I did not know what to expect. If I could go back in time, I would have told myself to carefully examine all of the classes that were required for my major. Also, in high school, I would have put a lot more effort into my work than I did, and I would have been more involved. Graduating with a 3.69 Grade Point average and being the President of a few clubs definitely helped me during high school, but I believe that I could have done a lot more while I was in school. Transitioning into college was difficult, and I would love to go back to my high school to inform the students about what they need to do for their final months of highschool.

CRYSTAL

Don't worry about going to college out of state. Go where the tuition goes. The school you choose for undergrad is not nearly as important as the amount of effort you choose to put into your work.

Alexandra

If I could go back in time and advise myself as a high school senior, I would have much to share on preparing for success in college. First, I would tell myself to start studying the material given to you in class as soon as it is recieved and not just the week before the exam. I would tell myself to break apart research papers into sections, to finish small pieces of it each day, instead of tackling the whole paper in one or two sittings. I would tell myself to be brave, and go after what I want because I might surprise myself in what I can achieve. Finally, I would tell myself to go out and meet people. As a freshman, I was shy, then my sophomore year I decided to change that, and I've made friendships to last a lifetime that I wish I could have made as soon as I started college.

Evelina

Don't give up. Keep up with your knowledge . Your knowledge will show your life path.

Kristoffer

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to not stess out over college before I even get there. Tell myself that I should just go to school to do what I want to do, not what other people want me to do. Regardless of how happy it would make other people. If it makes you miserable, don't do it. If something seems to be too good to be true, it most likely is. And most of all, relax. You'll be doing this for a very long time, so just relax and enjoy the ride. Just don't over do it.

Brad

Brad, As the senior year comes to a close there is one important factor to be considered, education. All though it may not seem important now, it truely is the key to the future. Education gives the ability to communicate and clearly understand the field you wish to study. Without the backgroud that education provides, as an employee, you will have no tools to fall back on and have no way to be innovative towards a continous practice which could use a little fine tuning. It also helps you develop important skills such a: research, patience and tolerance for the hardships that will come in your career. Lastly, if you step into a college classroom you will realize how many adults thought the same way you do and are now returning because they are unemployable without a degree. Four years may seem like a long time to be in school but I promise you there is much life to be lived afterwards. Don't give up and stay true to yourself and your dreams. Sincerely your older self, Brad

Nichole

If I was able to go back in time, I would advise myself, of course, to work harder. In high school, it was extremely to make straight A's even in my AP and honors classes. I applied little effort and although I have great study habits; I rarely needed to study for tests. During my senior year, I was in dual enrollment and attended L.E. Fletcher Technical Community College. I thought that I could apply the same amount of effort that I did in my high school classes and make the same grades. That did not work out as I expected. The tests in college were a little more difficult and I was not as prepared for them. Although I did pass all of my courses at Fletcher, I did not make all A's. So if I could go back in time and give myself advice about school, I would tell myself to study more and put a lot more effort into school. Now as a freshman in college, I realize that the grades I made at Fletcher are taken into consideration when I apply for clinicals. Its simple advice, but I did not use it.

Demi

If I was allowed to go back in time as a high school senior knowing what I know now about college, my transition process would have been tremendously easier. The advice I would give myself is not to allow myself to be "babied." What I mean by the previous statement is that I would take more resposibility on my own and not allow adults to do it for me. Acquiring responsibility would be the main source of advice that I would give myself if I were able to go back in time and be a high school senior again!

Breana

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, there are a few pieces of advice I’d give in making the transition from high school to college. Dear high school me, although you have been wearing a uniform for over thirteen years in private school, public college is a different world filled with anything but uniforms; don’t dress up the first day of school! Also, everyone in College hates the first day of class because the entire freshman population parks at 6:30 for their 7:30 class. You will learn that your classes are about two minutes from each other; so park at about 7:20. Now to classes, there is no possible way to pass by just being present in the room. You absolutely have to take notes and study. People really do go to the library to study, don’t be afraid. Everyone is in the same boat, so hop in. I know you want to take a break from all your extracurricular activities, but really, you will be more involved than ever. Use those time management skills you’ve learned and you will do well in College!

Kristen

I would warn myself that people are not always what they seem. It is so easy to get caught up in drama, and it is so easy to fail when you are not paying attention. I'd also tell myself not to rush into big decisions. It's not always as dire as it seems.

Bryce

If I was able to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would give tons of advice. I would tell myself the knowledge I would be learning and what I need to do to better prepare myself. This would to study more and focus more on my job and my studies. If I would have had a better GPA in high school I would be better off by getting more scholarships to help pay for college. In addition, I would apply for more scholarships and work more to raise the funds needed to fund college. Overall, college is doing great but the one thing that seems to be haunting me is financial need. As a culinary arts major, it requires a lot of time and money to achieve high standards in the foodservice industry. At Nicholls, I will have a chance to go to France, or anywhere in the world to study cuisine on a worldwide setting. This will take more finanical aid that I can provide. Improving my grades and applying for scholarships are two things I would tell myself as a high school senior.

Harmony

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior I would probably tell myself three things. The first would be to enjoy every single minute of senior year in high school. Thinking about all of the things I could have done but did not makes me a little sad. Secondly, I would tell yself to fill out as many schorlarships as I could. I did recieve some but, of course, I wish that I had more. Money is very important in college. The last thing I would tell myself is to work extra hard in my dual enrollment classes and honors classes in order to prepare myself for college classes.

Amanda

The best advice I could give myself is to not procrastinate. Most colleges have Priority and Early Application deadlines and taking dvantage of them is crucial. Materials can get lost, you might forget something in the stressful process, and starting and trying to finish early leaves plenty of time to correct any mistakes that might occur becuase once it comes down to the last few days of the regular application process it could be the difference between you attending that semester or not. This also applies to registering for classes each semester. Once registration opens everyone rushes to get the classes they want/need and if you procrastinate you will end up not being able to take that needed class to graduate.

Allie

Knowing what I know now and having the opportunity to go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would refresh my heart of Proverbs 19:21. (Many are the plans in a man’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails. Proverbs 19:21) I would have informed myself that the college I thought I should go to, is not the college God had preferred me to attend. I need to listen to what I feel He is telling me in my heart. My freshman year of college I was suffering at a campus that was not fulfilling to my spirit, I went there because of a scholarship for music, but because the opportunity was not to play my talents for the Father, I felt no purpose, joy or fulfillment. I am now trusting in God in this new opportunity I have been given, and although I spent a year of my life in a place I didn’t need to be, I know God used it in a way to help me grow in Him, and to learn to trust in Him so much more.

Xavia

I would tell myself to take school more seriously. Stare at the computer screen if you have to complete your work as long as you get it done. I would also say there is always time for fun don't think that you are going to miss out on something if you decide to turn down a trip to walmart or to the ice cream shop, even if you do your friends will tell you about it.

Mary

So far out of my college experience I have gained knowledge; it's not the knowledge you would expect, such as academic knowledge, but the knowledge of life and its power. I have learned that procrastination gets you no where, unlike in high school where it might have gotten you a B minus. I have learned that wether you attend the class or not, you are still expected to take finals and pass. I also learned valuable life lessons, and I hope to keep gaining this experience in other ways. Sure the academics have been a little different than high school, but college is actually preparing you for real life, unlike high school. The value to attend school, well it is priceless. College has made me into a different, more likeable person. Of course it is hard to adjust to college, but once you do it is fine. The envirnoment is just different, and the things about life (not just academics) that you learn will be with you for the rest of your life. Plus, a degree is a degree is a degree, and those things are worth something now a days!

Rebecca

I met so many new people of all races and ethnicities. College has definitely been an eye-opener to what the "real world" is all about. Going to college taught me how to be independent and how to manage money, which will truly become useful later in life as I pursue higher education. At Nicholls State University, I joined Delta Zeta Sorority. Through the sorority alone, I met ninety-three new ladies of different cultures and ethnicities. The sorority also taught me money management as dues had to be paid on time monthly. I would highly encourage others to become involved in their university's academic and social programs.

Romenia

I get to meet new people everyday. Its so much different from highschool you have to grow up fast. Your professors are not on you like in highschool. Its vauleable because your in a setting with people of different views and cultures, where you just learn so much its priceless!

Justin

I learned a broad area of skills and philosophy that helped me become more open to the different ways of the world. There are so many ideas that I would never have considered before, and it helps me realize who I am and what I stand for.

Abbie

"College is an option" describes my friends' attitudes of college after graduating high school. To my friends, college is the biggest waste of money and time. After graduating, I knew higher education would eventually lead me down a road that I couldn't get to without higher education. My college experience has led me down a difficult road. I am a typical poor college student working two jobs and living off of eighty-nine cents cans of noodles while my friends have government jobs that allow them to dine at nicer places. I am your typical college student working hard, making ends meet, pushing my limits, and testing my strengths. But through difficult times, I have learned that higher education will allow me to succeed not only in educational circumstances but in life. My college experience has had its ups and downs but ultimately higher education has taught me life lessons that exceed beyond the classroom such as financial budget, my strengths and weaknesses, pushing myself to limits and ultimately to believe in myself and the better financial status I will have in future years. Thanks for considering me for this.

Angel

While college was certainly not THE defining experience of my life, it has certainly has been a contributing factor. Through my college experience, I met fantastic people, made lasting connections, and built relationships that have helped me to continue my educational journey. I was fortunate enough to hold two different campus jobs, and both put me in contact with different people and allowed me to explore multiple interests and career paths. While my major, English, was not designed to prepare me for a a certain career, the classes I took prepared me for thinking through real-world situations; evaluating arguments for myself; relating to other people; and taught me how to really listen to what other people say--true communication, an invaluable skill in any situation. But ultimately, the people with whom I shared four years of my life--fellow students and professors--helped to create a truly amazing experience. They were there to talk with, to learn from, to share successes but also failures. They were there to inspire me to attain my goals and to grow personally and professionally; I had the same effect on them. Earning a degree was just a bonus.

KIAMIE

When deciding on a college to attend, there are several factors to keep in mind. Location, by finding out the geographic location of a school, it can help you determine its cliamte. If you like warm weather, you would benefit from attending a college located in the south. If you like seasonal weather, you may prefer attending a school located in the west coast. Crime rate;I believe that all college students who venture out of their home town want to go somewhere safe, research the crime rate in the area(s) for the college(s) you are looking into. When you choose a college, make sure it is a school you take interest in, do not choose a college just to follow your friends. When you start college, join clubs/organizations and become active,and if you experience academic difficulties, seek extra help from your instructors and the toutoring center. If you experience personal issues that become overwhelming, visit your school's counseling center. If you think an instructor is difficult within the fisrt week of class, change your instructor immediately, because the work will become more difficult as the samester goes on. Do not procrastinate.

Vanessa

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a senior in high school, I would tell myself not to stress so much, and that every thing can be worked out, no matter how hard. I would tell myself that I will have to keep trying, keep pushing forward, and can't let myself stay down if i fall. Its scary, but you won't be alone. There will always be someone there to help you. You can do it. Its nothing like high school, true, but isn't that whats so apealing about college? Its okay if it means you'll be away from the family for long periods of time. They're only a half-hour drive away. Nothing is too difficult if you try, so don't give up; Ever.

Ashley

I would tell myself that college is a lot harder than high school. You have to study a lot harder, write a lot more, research almost all semester long, read a lot faster, and do all of this while working so you can put gas in the car to get you to school. It is a lot of work, but it is also worth it. You meet new people, learn many new things, and find a piece of yourself with every passing semester.

Tracie

If I would go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself many things. First of all I would remind myself that college is nothing like high school. You need to apply yourself more and study more then you normally do. Second, ?Nothing is more important than your studies,? would be the second thing I tell myself. Your friends will be there tomorrow and on the weekends for you to spend time with, and when it comes to your school work you need to apply yourself to that first. Finally, I would give myself tips I have learned since I started college. One is study every day not the night before an exam. Another, pace yourself and set goals, if I would not have done this I would have been so stressed out and would not have gotten much accomplished. Those are the things I would want to tell myself if I could go back in time to my Senior year.

Brittany

Take a deep breath, relax, and smile. College isn't like what you see on television and it is nothing like you've ever heard. It isn't impossible! Sure, you are entering into one of the most competitive nursing schools there is, but it is not impossible. Don't sit back and let the experience pass you by--prepare for every test and you will succeed. Four years of your life is just a blink of an eye--don't think that you are missing out on the best parts of life if you choose to stay in and study rather than go out for a night on the town with your friends! You are a strong minded, wise, and intelligent girl who can do anything she sets her mind to. You can do this. You just have to have faith in yourself and you WILL rise to the occasion.

Chloe

Take the time to learn to study. It's not possible to pass college classes by just showing up and paying attention.

Chelsea

I f I were to be able to go back in time, and talk to myself when I was a senior in high school, I would not only tell myself to stay on top of studies and to be prepared for college life. I would also tell myself to enjoy every minute of highschool, before it's gone. High school was a chapter of my life, that taught me alot of life lessons. Knowing that I'm done with high school, helps me realize how fast my college experience is going to be.. I also miss high school because it was worry free, compared to college. High school was somewhat 'easy' for me, and I miss that. College is a 'full-time' job, that requires over time. So, I would advise myself to enjoy high school while I can, and not to rush.

Ashley

Finding the right college can be hard. I choice mind because it had the best nursing program in the state; it was just a plus that it was so close to home that I would not have to leave home. College can be overwhelming at times but thats no reason to not join some kind of club. At my school they have clubs you can join where you can meet people who are going for the same major as you and they also have clubs like sororities, honor society, etc. I joined a sorority because the girls are always there for me when I need advise or help with school work. No matter which club you may join you will always have people willing to help. Even people out of the clubs are there to help as well.

Kiala

Make sure that you go to the college that best fits you, not what your parents or friends want for you.

Eric

Find a school that maches your needs and has what you are looking for in a college. Allso find one with an healthy and envoralmental condition.

Geri

I would tell them to make sure they have a wide variety of degrees available. I would advise them to think about the overall college and what positive it could bring into their existing life; not only academically but socially as well. I would also advise them to stay focused and socially involved as much as possible.

Tabia

Advice I would give to parents and/or students is to pick the college you are most interested in and make the most of it. Many people just pick any college to get an education and get there to discover they are unhappy and do not really like the place at all. Because of this, they fail out or just don't have a very happy college experience. Also, many people believe college is a place to go and get an education and graduate. This is true, but there is more to the experience. Meeting new people, joining clubs and forming lasting friendships are just a few of the many wonderful things that you can experience in college.

Amanda

I think students should visit a few of their top choice campuses with their parents, take tours, and speak with students presently attending the school. Also, have a list of questions prepared concerning the aspects of college life most important to the parents and a separate, but similar, list for the student. It would also be beneficial to sit in on an entry level lecture in the student's selected area of entry.

Isaiah

Finding the right college is not an easy task. Students have to make sure they choose an environment the feel comfortable in or can adjust to easily for the best experience. Parents should let their kids travel as far from home as they want so students gain independence and be more focused on school so they can be more successful when they graduate. Just remember the size of the school is not the most important thing when choosing a school and you get what you want out of school. It is best to choose a school that you feel most confident , so you can get the most out of the experience.

c.demming

Decide what is best for the perspective student first, then consider amount one would ask parents to pay.

Johnny

Find a college that has a excellent teaching staff for the desired degree. Nicholls is top-notch for nursing

Sydney

Really consider the size of the school in your decision. A large school usually comes with more temptation and a harder time getting help from your professors. Also look at the reputation of the school. Schools such as LSU may get a big rep for their football team, but if you look past the sports teams you either see really persistant students who will do anything to get their A or partiers who just get by. Some of those A students get converted to the party side and can handle both lives while others flunk out.

LaShayla

Take your time deciding. Get involved. Freshman should stay on campus. Campus life is totally different if a student stays off campus.

Danielle

Look for a college that has a great emphasis on academics. A campus that is beautiful and full of trees. Look for professors who are friendly and know you by name.

Trina

The best advice I would give to parents and their students as far as finding the right school is make sure that the school that they choose reflects the personality of the student and is also an environment where they can stay both focused on their schoolwork while having fun. As far as making the most of college, I would say that the student should not only go to class and study hard, but try to get involved on campus in anyway possible., whether it be with a club, group, or program/event. It is so important to get involved in extra-curricular activities because this could be a powerful way to network even with professionals in that students field of study, and when it's time for them to graduate and find a job, then it could be possible that they could give that person a call.

Celeste

Students who are entering college for the first time should consider their personal preferences and not attend a college just because friends go there or their family members graduated from there; college is a personal experience. Visit a college and ask the current students how they feel about it without letting them know you're completely new to it so you can get honest, unbiased answers. Take advantage of the help your professors and instructors offer to you; they get to know you and your interests. Never skip class because I believe every student deserves to get the education for which he or she is paying. Enjoy yourself but don't lose focus on studying. Don't worry abour what other students think; most are very open-minded and welcome any new ideas.