Northwestern College Top Questions

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

Josh

Find out who you are on your own two feet. Don't depend on someone else to to make you happy. Surround yourself with positive people. The biggest mistake you can make is being afraid to make one.

Laura

As a sophomore in college, if I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to be confident. When I made my decision to attend Northwestern, I was happy with my decision, but I was still concerned that I had made the right decision. Now, I know without a doubt I made the right decision. The people I have met here, the things I have learned, and the experiences I have had during my time at Northwestern had impacted my life in more ways than I ever could have imagined. The professors and class I have taken have challenged me in ways that will serve me well in not only medical school but in other areas of life. I know, as a senior in high school, I was worried about meeting new people. However, the friends and teammates I have met seem like family to me now, it's strange to believe I was even worried. They have encouraged, supported, and influenced my life in so many ways, creating bonds that will last a lifetime. Overall, I would tell my high school self to not worry and enjoy the ride.

Robbie

Hey self! Life is not about YOU! It's that simple. As you leave high school and move away from your family, there is only one thing you need to keep in mind to be successful: Life is not about you. It's about the One who made you and its about putting others ahead of yourself. You're very focused on "self" right now, but you've made your college decision and now it is time to think about how your are going to make your life count for others. You can go one of two ways: 1.) Go to college, do everything to get ahead (even if that means stepping on others), and try and make as much money as possible or 2.) Go to college, open your eyes to those around you in need, and use your God-given abilities to meet those needs. It is your choice. Yes, college will be challenging and you'll have to be responsible to be successful, but there is still plenty of time to look out for the needs of others. Our world needs servants. I hope you'll choose to be one.

Mark

Hide your valuables especially food, otherwise just enjoy the experience of the dorm life with a bunch of people that you will probably end up being friends with for the rest of your life. You may not "LOVE" everyone, but you will eventually find your group and become extrememly close to them. At that point you will start to fully enjoy your freshmen year. Other than that, practice being independent. Do your own laundry, cook your own food, and practice time management.

Russel

There are many diferences answering this due to graduating several years ago. There are stark changes in society now complared to my College ecperience at the time. I will respond in the NOW! Education is as or more important now than ever. The econmomy and moral values have changed ratically. There is a distinct difference of perspective with those seeking a college education NOW. Aplicants need to be certain about what they are really interesed in and find a school that fits them personnlly. I have already been accepted to Clevaland Chiorpractic College (CCC). Due to the Economy situation mentioned above, I am in hard spot at the moment trying to sell my house so I can relocate to KS. I was unemployed at the time I decided to investigate CCC after choosog 4 total in the Midwest. CCC has been very helpful and patient with my situation. I have been requiered to "default" enrollment twice and CCC keeps me up to date when I can get all my issues cleared and start undergrad. Thank you for this opportunity. Russel Jahn

Annie

College is the greatest present you can give to yourself, not only does it open your mind to new ideas and enhance you knowledge for your chosen field, but you also acquire great leadership and communication skills. You learn to be part of a community and experience what is like to work as part of a network, and you will also make connections that will last you a life time. Above all there is nothing more satisfying than knowing you worked hard and being able to proudly say i have a college degree.

Ashley

My advice to my high school self would be to really research your options a lot instead of being lazy. Also, I would tell myself to be more disciplined in doing my homework and put a lot more into it because homework in college is a lot harder. Also, I would tell myself that I need to learn how to study really well and find a way that works really well for me because having to start habits after you're in college is extremely difficult and stressful. When it comes to paying for college, I would tell myself to research scholarships more because college is a lot more expensive than most high school students think it is. Also, I would tell myself that I need to relax when it comes to meeting new and very different people because in college you meet a much bigger variety of people that you will have to socialize with. Lastly, I would tell myself that I need to get ready for the best years of my life!

Beverly

The first three months will be Hell for you. That's what happens when you live nine hours away in the middle of nowhere. So be prepared. But if you can soldier on, I promise you this will be one of the best experiences of your life. The landscape leaves much to be desired. But the people here are beautiful. They will leave a feeling of joy that will root deep within your soul. Remember to make time for them. Remember to keep that smile on your face. Remember to love. And don't take your time here for granted; ever. And, about those two professors. I know you hate them. But believe me, in the end, it will be more than worth it. Just stick with it.

Rebekah

When you're in high school , all you wish to do is fit a mold crafted by others around you. The goal is to be accepted and loved, even if you are not being the person you truly are. I was shy and incredibly aware of what others wanted me to be. I had terrible self esteem and developed an eating disorder that would consume me for four years. The summer after I graduated from high school , I felt a sense being released from others; expectations. Entering college meant that I was entering my future. This new future is one filled with my goals and expectations, no one else's. Since arriving at college, I have discovered that my body and image is not what makes me beautiful, but what I do with myself and the things I can accomplish. That in and of itself has made all the difference. I am on my way to being a child psychologist and making a difference in lives of youth who are even now struggling with a sense of no direction. I want to tell them the things I wish I had learned long ago about what really matters in life.

Joseph

So far it is safe to say that my college experience has been a valuable one. I have learned that the experience of receiving higher education is not just about getting good grades, it is about learning to solve the problems that face me every day, whether it is a class that I dislike or an assignment that is frustrating me. College is about trying new things, and striving to make a difference. Aside from teaching me all of the necessary "basics" in education, this experience has been valuable because it is teaching me to become a more responsible and independent person. I realize that I have only begun my journey to become more intelligent not just as a student, but more importantly as a person. This scholarship would be greatly appreciated in order to continue on my path for higher education.

Derrick

I have gotten some much out of my college education at Northwestern. My professors in the Athletic Training feild came from well-known training programs and know how to push us to be the best. Not only do they teach the basic things for the major, they to are constantly up-grading their education and teach us the newest and most interesting research out there on the subject. It is valuable to me because they have provided a great learning enviroment both in the books and hands on as well as chances to shadow respected people in our feild to get real life application.

Meghan

You're going to love college. It really is an amazing experience. I know you're a little scared right now to leave your family, but you're going to make the most incredible friends ever. Trust me - you will love the girls you live with. Just go and be yourself. It's like a chance to start over; no one knows anything about you! You have a clean slate. The people there aren't going to judge you. You can be whoever you want to be, and you'll be loved just as you are. You probably won't get much sleep, but that's okay. Just take naps whenever you can. The social life is really worth the lack of sleep! Sometimes it will be hard to focus on homework when there are so many other fun things to do, but just do your best. Grades really aren't everything in college. I know they were really important in high school, but you actually might get a B once in awhile, and guess what - it's not the end of the world! Just go and have fun. Be yourself. Find your true identity. Enjoy every minute.

Hannah

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would definitely tell myself to be diligent and passionate about all I am involved in. I would also tell myself to prepare to selflessly pursue friendships to prepare for life away from home and familiar faces. The transition into college was difficult because I did not realize how lonely I would be. If I had prepared for that and thus acted upon my desire for friendship in a better way, my loneliness would not have affected me as much. Academically, consistency is key. It is extremely helpful to have a study routine and to not cram for exams or wait until the evening before to write a paper. Consistently being diligent in studying is something I had to learn during my first semester. On top of all of these things, I would tell myself to be excited about the next stage in life and not be anxious or worry. It was an exciting step and I feel like my anxieties hindered me from taking risks when entering life in college.

Kayla

Dear High School senior, there are some very important things you need to know before you head off to college. While picking your classes for 12th grade make sure you take classes that may help you decide what you could pursue a career in. Find a class that you enjoy and take the class now while you don't have to pay for class or books. This is the best time because next year they expect you to know what your dreams are and you will regret not doing what you love while its free. Out side of class get involved in as many projects and clubs as you can, it may be to late to join volunteer groups now, but if you are in some clubs stay in them and take leadership roles. Colleges and scholarships love to see extracaricular work out side of your High School. One last thing to do before you head off to college; during the summer take as much responsibility for your life as you can. Don't ask your parents for advice on everything because next year they are not going to be there. It is best to start now with your responsibility.

Holly

Don't think that you can make it on the bare minimum. Utilize the resources available to you such as the library and the tutoring centers. There is no shame in asking for help. The point of being in college is to prepare you for life, and you will live a fuller life if you attempt to excel not just get by.

Crystal

The advice I would give to myself is that go in to college with an open heart. Try out for new things and just think of college has starting a new adventure in your life. Another piece of advice I would give myself is that, I would try and be more open to making new friends. Also, classes are not as hard as I thought they were. People make you think that you have to read 20 chapters every night and eight page papers due twice througout the semester, but I did not find it this way. Yes, I had difficult assignments but I took the time to do them and got good grades.

Anna

Be open to change. Make the most of the people that you love at home. And feel blessed with the person that you have become, if you don't believe in what you have become, you will not know who you at the end of the day. And finally, get excited, the people that you are going to meet are people you will never forget.

Amanda

If given the chance to go back in time I would tell my high school senior self of the financial hardships attending college brings about. Back when I was still in high school I could care less about saving money for the future. I was living in the moment day to day, and not thinking about what would become of my financial situation after graduation. I was completely dependent on the college fund my parents had been setting aside for me and was completely taken aback when that money ran out and I was left to find my own means of paying for college. The financial toll that tuition, student fees, and books took on me was so severe that at one point I needed to take a semester off and find a second part time job just to save up and get ahead. Knowing myself when I was about to graduate and my strong desire to continue my education, I feel that this advice could have been the most helpful advice I have ever received.

Nicole

I would tell myself to make a better effort at keeping to a study schedule. College courses are not only tough, but time-consuming, and I wish I would have spent more time studying for certain classes. I would also tell myself to apply for scholarships like crazy. I am pretty much broke right now as a college student and can barely afford books. It would have been extremely beneficial if I had earned some more scholarships that would help me through this year, and hopefully into the next three years of my college education.

Anna

If I could go back in time and give my "high school senior-self" advice about college based on what I know now, I would share two things. First, I would say that getting good grades, though very important at this college and strived after by most students, is ultimately not the most important part of a college education. I have had to put my schoolwork first and work hard in my classes, but I have also had to make the choice to set down my books and make time for the people in my life at school. Maintaining close relationships needs a priority, as should be being a good student and keeping my grades up. Second, I would also tell myself to make the most of every opportunity that the college presents to students. Those who are enrolled in college are a privileged group, and those students are given the chance to go on service projects, study abroad, volunteer, and take a stand for important issues on their campus and in their community. It is good to be reminded that for many, the opportunities in college are unlimited and we should make the most of them.

Chelsie

I know you are nervous about going to a different state to attend college. Remember how this has been your dream since you were little and your parents are so supportive. A new state and environment are going to be intimidating but you are a little socialite and will have no problems making friends on the first day. Your gift of socializing also comes with responsibilites. Make sure you limit yourselft to how much time you spend with your friends. School is so important to your future that much time will be needed on your studies. Find an even balance between your passion for people and learning must-needed things for your degree. Remember that you will learn just as much outside the classroom as you will in it. Don't be afraid of taking risks-you never know what path they may lead you down so be careful and wise about which ones you take. Sometimes it is okay to say No. Always be open-minded but firm in your own beliefs and values. Most of all, do not forget who you are and who you belong to-this is the time to solidify your life. Enjoy every moment.

Ashley

I would tell myself to take as many AP courses as possible and make sure I am very involved during my last year of high school. Also I would have to say it was kind of a shock when college classes first started. I would tell myself to not be afraid of all of the studying and to take advantage of the professors and their willingness to help. I would also tell myself to do all of the problems that are assigned from the begining because they really help alot when it comes to test. Lastly, I would say don't give up. It has been an amazing first semester and I can't wait to see what is ahead. Its just the start of my life.

Josh

I would tell them that even though I though I was very busy my senior year in high school, to still take time to apply for scholarships.... they help you stay out a debt. College costs a lot of money!!!

Kayli

I would tell myself to stay focused all the time. Learn to me a better time manager and get things done on time or before they are due. I would tell myself to jump right in to things and not be scared to try new things. I would teach myseld how to balance my social life and school life so I wouldn't feel like they where running into each other. Most importantly I would tell myself to relax, meet as many new people as you can, learn a lot and enjoy college while I'm there.

Jennifer

Make the best out of the gifts God has given you. He will provide you with opportunities and will be with you every step of the way. Trust in him and remember to honor him in everything you do. And the people that come into your life... love them and do everything you can to let them know you do. Life is short but full of so many possibilities, work as hard as you can and push yourself because it is a true sign of character. Dont ever for a second doubt yourself or feel like your not worth what you have. Thank those who helped you get to where you are and remember to love. In everything you do, love.

Sara

Start good habits now. If you already have, don't let them fall apart! After two full years of college I have finally figured out that in order to maintain good habits, it takes intentional decisions to be consistent. I am thinking specifically of sleep habits and study habits (sleeping and studying make up a lot of college life, after all). I have had way too many short nights, and a perpetual lack of sleep makes life seem exponentially more difficult. I have found that it is better to go to bed and get decent rest than it is to stay up all night slaving over a philosophy essay or meticulously studying every last biology note. As far as study habits...it is far less stressful to start studying and writing papers generously ahead of the due date (duh). Sure it works to do it the night before, but then I'm up way too late (bad sleep habit) and potentially sacrificing other commitments I have made (irresponsible). I want to live a consistent, controlled, healthy lifestyle as a student and as a professional. And doing so actually helps me focus more on other people than myself.

Kayli

Get a better score on my ACT. Work harder on my grades

Molly

Be brave making new connections with many peers and faculty members. Relationships will be key for needed guidance, as well as forming purposeful learning communities. Make sure to get involved in extra curricular activities and groups, but only as much as you can handle while getting your studies. As a senior, it would be beneficial to do some job shadowing to get a better understanding of what different occupations have to offer. During your senior year, it would also be helpful to practice your independence in different areas including: time management, study strategies, laundry, and money management. Remember that college is a prepatory step to the rest of your life so you should take your studies seriously, but not yourself all the time! It's okay to change your major, and you probably will at least once. If you are struggling in a class, don't just drop the class because it will stay on your record. Instead, you should talk with your professor, take advantage of review sessions, and tutoring sessions. Last, but not least take care of yourself by getting plenty of rest, eating a balanced diet, and exercise regularly!

Lisa

The advice that I would give both parents and students about finding the right college and making the most of the college expereince is this. Go to as many colleges as you can for college visit days to check out the school, eat the food, attend a class, and see the dorms. It really comes down to a "gut feeling" when you finally decide. You have to know you made the right choice, and this has a way of showing in certain ways, like how everthing thing seems to fall in place for a certain college. For example, my good friends are going there, they have my major, and I got a great scholarship. In regards to making the most of the college experience, I would say to just enjoy it and to not worry. College is a great time in a person's life and it really only comes around once, before the work day world begins after college graduation. Grow, go out for clubs and activities. Embrace life. Life only comes around once and I truly believe that we need to live each day to the fullest. Thank you for reading my advice.

Andrea

Make sure you take time to visit the campus. Meet with professors. Eat lunch with current students. Attened a campus sporting event. Get a feel for the atmosphere of the campus and the surrounding community. While on campus ask students what they dislike about the college. Often times they will give a genuine answer and you, as a prospective, can learn a lot about a college by current students' complaints. Do you like what you see? Can you see yourself fitting in? Besides the social aspect, it is also crucial to make sure the college offers the major you are interested in. After all, academics is ultimately the reason why students attend college. What about the cost of tuition? Everyone is going to have student loans, and so cost of tuition should not be the deciding factor. Don't settle for a college simply because it is cheap. Lastly: try new things, get involved, take risks, stretch yourself, be you!

Sylvia

don't go somewhere just because it's cheaper/more affordable than where you want to go. sometimes it will be tough to find the money, but if/when you find it, the experience will be worth it.

Kristen

College is too expensive and too big of an investment of time to waste or make a hasty decision about. It's a decision that needs not to be made lightly, but only after careful consideration of the effects of the decision. I think that college is one of the greatest times in a person's life but can only be that way if a student ends up at the right school. While I believe that it is important for parents to have some impact, or voice, on the chioce of schools a student decides on, it should ultimately be the student's decision because it is their education and their experience. Going to a school that a student doesn't want to be at won't promote learning, but will more likely permeate a dissatisfication of the school and the education and may push the student away from their degree and their family. I think the most important part in choosing a school is visiting it! Go on a tour, stay in the dorms, and eat the food... that's real- you can't fake it. What you experience there is what it will be like!

Caleb

When trying to decide on a college to attend for your career there is one factor, if not the most important factor which is visiting college beforehand. I?d recommend at least two different visits, one with parents, and the other one where just the student visits. These two visits can tell you a lot about the college. The first thing is it will show the parents what the college is like. Classes that they sit in can answer the question to what the professors are like. The second time the student visits by him or herself, it will allow the student to get a good feel of what goes on in the dorms. Dorm life has probably been the most crucial factor in my time at college. The school that I go to isn?t a party school which allows for me to create long-term relationships and focused study time. The community life that the student will experience in his or her visit will be their new family for the next few years that they have at college.

Jacob

My advice for finding the right college is to evaluate your reasons for going to school. If the reasons are purely social, then don't spend thosands of dollars on a school that has high acedmic standards. If the reason is to study the field you have been waiting so long to be in, then find the school that matches your expectations.

Abby

I would say, no matter what college you decide to go to, you will not know if it is the right one for you unless you stick with it. I have wanted to transfer for 2 years now, and in the past semester I have realized that this was the college for me. It is very hard to decide what college to attend, but find one that fits your ethical and moral views, and stay away from "party" schools. Also find one that fits your finacial standing, and stick with it. It is very surprising to me how many people attend a college and want to transfer, but again stay with it. Make sure that the college you apply for is close enough or far enough away from home. Make sure it is academically noted. Make sure it is the size you want (the college and the town it is located in). Don't stress out about it too much as I did, no matter where you go, you are getting an education and that is the most important part, and that is the reason we all attend a college.

Christa

I would ask the parents and students to make a list of the most important qualities of a college and look for evidence of that during college visits. I would talk to different students on campus to get a feel for the campus life and work load. I would encourage the student to get involved with campus activites, meet new people, develop friendships, but don't neglect studying either. Some of my better friends are the ones I study with.

Steven

Pick somewhere that you can have the right kind of fun. People at the school you want to go to will be watching out for you and be encouraging you to make wise decisions. Listen to God, He will guide your path, direct your steps, and open the right doors for the school which is best for you. Enjoy these years, they are to be cherished for the rest of your life, and yes, they are just as much fun as everyone says they are!

Kory

I advise everyone to check out the college for yourself. I thought I was going to go to a college in Colordao, but when I went to visit Northwestern, I decided that this was the college for me. You can never judge a book by its cover so I encourage everyone who is looking for a college to go and experience what life at the college is like. Also, do not be affaird to ask hard questions beacuse this place might be where you spend the next four years of your life. You better like what your getting yourself into.

Erin

The most important part about making the most of a college search and the college experience is being open to understanding and considering different points of view. You will encounter people who are different from you in every way in the classroom, on the intramural field, in extracurricular activities, and at the weekend hangouts. College is the best time in your life to expose yourself to different viewpoints and let yourself be challenged by them. When you do this you will be making the most of your college experience.

Aaryn

I believe that you can find whatever you want at any college you attend. So the choice is not as crucial as many high school seniors and their parents would make it out to be. Try to attend a school that people have heard of, because it will help you a lot in terms of furthering education and careers later in life. Other than that, choose the school that feels best when you visit. And look for whatever you want, because you're sure to find it.

Katharina

Some advice I would give are to look at all your options and apply to many places. They would be surprised what they may find in a college. As I did, going to a 2-year college, such as a Community College or Junior College, is a great idea because you save a lot of money, and if your major changes, and have to stay longer at school, you (if your school is expensive) won't be wasting money. I also would write down everything you're interested in and check to see if that school has majors/minors of your interest. In order to make the most out of the college experience, I would say to get involved as much as you can (as long as you're not letting it interfere too much with studies) and try to get to know as many people as you can. Stay away from the alcohol, and college will be a different, but I know, a better experience.

Nick

If you're going to spend thousands of dollars on an education, be prepared to learn. I've seen people who come to college just to party and get drunk, or just to play video games, or for some other reason. It's a waste of money. If you go there to learn and to meet new people, you'll have a great time. But don't just focus on the learning...there is a lot more to college life than that. And parents, don't think you can "force" your kids to behave by putting them in some conservative, high-end college. If they want to get drunk, they're going to get drunk. You can't protect them forever, and if you try to, you'll just end up losing them for good. The best thing to do is trust their choices, and help them through it if they make a mistake or two. Just don't be afraid to let go.

Anne

Wierdly enough, looking for a college thats right for you or your child has a lot more to do with how much you know about you, not the college. If you don't know who you are how can you know what college you want to go to or what you want to do? If you aren't certain about who you are it's best to go to a medium sized college, with a friendly atmosphere, and with good accademic departments all around, to leave room to grow.

Matthew

Don't focus on the cost. Americans make a million dollars in the course of their life on average, so the price you pay for college is only 20{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of that at most and it is worth it to get a solid education. Also, find a place where you will be encouraged towards your beliefs and your sense of morality. Parents, don't force your students to go someplace they don't want to go or to study what they don't want to study. Students, don't go to a college for a girl/boy friend, or parties, or friends. Go because it is a place where you feel comfortable. Finally, don't party during the first 2 months of school and don't go home for the first month. This will help you to have a healthy start to your college experience.

Kirk

I would suggest many college visits to different types of colleges such as large universities to small colleges. Spend the night in the dorms to experince what it would be like to live there. Research success rates of graduating students to them finding a job in their field. To make the most of the college expeirnce I suggest that you should get involved into clubs or sports that you really enjoy. This is a great way to meet new people and also belong. Also this helps you learn new things and how to manage your time well.

Michelle

Don't choose a college simply because of its academics or financial aid package. Choose a place that is challenging not only academically but in other ways as well: emotionally, spiritually, socially... College is going to be home for the majority of four years and should stimulate personal growth and act as a springboard for "the real world." Get to know the people you live with. Be involved in school activities whether it is attending athletic events, school sponsored concerts or plays, or any other community event. Don't wait for happiness to come to you. Go find it.