Nova Southeastern University Top Questions

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

AMBER

If i could go back in time and talk to myself, I would let myself know not to let the stressors in life affect my performance in school. During high school I had a lot of responsibility, my mother is a glaucoma patient and she was declared legally blind. So I had to help her take care of my little brothers and the chores around the house. It was hard for me to balance school and handling the work at home. That the main reason I didn?t go to college right after high school,was becuase I felt it was my duty to help my mother. But knowing what I know now I would have definitely gone straight to college after high school. It would have been hard leaving my mom at that time but it probably would have been best for me. It seems much harder now to do it because of the two year break I took. This was a lesson learned! I would share this with anybody thinking about taking a break from school!

Isaiah

If i could go back in time to talk to myself about college life and making a transition i would tell myself to put more focus on my school work. The grade I get in high school will affect me Finacially and academicly. If i get better grades i get more grants and scholarships, which would take a lot of the stress of trying to come up with money to stay in school and academicly the grades would help me to get more advanced classes so i could skip classes that don't count towards my degree. I would pay less money out my pockets and get my degree much quicker.

Sara

Sara, I know things can be tough and trying to find out how your going to pay for college can be so scary but when it comes down to it, you are able. You need to keep your goals in focus and remember that by achieving them you will be a successful woman and will be able to repay your college depts. Keep in mind that you determine your success, others cannot obtain success for you. You will achieve what you put your mind to as long as you keep yourself motivated. Going from being a high school senior to a college freshman is a big step. You will be on your own, you will be responsible for taking care of yourself. You will learn to balance work, school, friends and family. Do not waste time in college to have fun. The longer you spend in college the longer it will be until you are able to really enjoy life. Just remember all the places you want to go. When you finish school it will all be at your fingertips. Things can be tough, but you are tougher.

Marsha-Ann

Words of Wisdom As you approach the first hurdle, of your educational journey; it is time to focus as you are now going to make life choices. What do you like to do? What is your passion? Based on your answers choose a career or course of study and stay the course. You may be tempted to quit as circumstances may arise, circumstances such as work, children, and family. While these life circumstances may bring joy, nothing will fill the void that an incomplete goal will leave. Listen to your mentors as the easiest and painless way to learn is from someone else's mistake. Lastly, as you begin with the end in mind, move forward with a step at a time, while maintaining a positive outlook at all times. This will help you set your self apart from the rest of the world. Have you ever heard anyone regret having a bachelor's degree? I am sure you may have heard some who regret not accomplishing this feat. Go forth and achieve you can do anything you put your mind to. One day you will look back and say I started well and I have achieved my Goal

Phyllis

You are an important person who has much to contribute to the area of children and disabilities. You are capable of doing a lot of good for future children and your experience will prove that. Believe in yourself and find new ways to face the challenges in your life head-on. God will always place the people in your life that you need. Count your blessings and remember to always be grateful for the little things in life, some have nothing. Challenge builds character, and you've got lots of that. So always believe in yourself and what you can accomplish. There was a time you thought you could do or be anything you wanted, all you had to do was study it. Now is your time - choose your destiny carefully and without reserve. You can never repeat this time in your life.

Nicole

There are a million things I would go back and tell myself! First I would start by telling myeself not to be scared to be independent because when I was about to leave for school I changed my mind and stayed close to home, which to this day I wish I hadn't. I always feel like I may have missed out on the opportunities to meet new people and have different experiences. Secondly I'd tell myself that the next few years are very important, but will fly by so fast! Its been 7 years since I graduated from high school and it seems like just yesterday. When I first started college I didn't take it very seriously and I didn't get involved, but now I want to get involved with everything and appreciate every bit of knowledge I can aquire.

Desiree

It is very important not to take education for granted. You must work hard at achieving good grades. If not, eventually it can catch up to you. In addition look into all your options with colleges, scholarships, grants and so on. Have an idea on what your major will be, you dont want to waste time taking classes leading nowhere. Dont take time off after graduating high school. That one year you give yourself turns into 5 or more. If you want a career and college then go after graduation. Dont waste time, it goes by too fast as it is. Once you are in college work hard and study hard. Its tough but it will all pay off in the long run. You must maintain strength, determination and focus. If you stick to this you will be fine.

Vanessa

The moment you graduate, you're going to have a feeling of independence; you're going to think "I'm an adult, I can make decisions for myself, I'm on top of the world." Ignore that voice in your head because for the rest of your life, you will need to seek help and advice for all the milestones we have to hurdle, and that's ok. It's ok to not know everything . Life is not supposed to be easy, but take advice from the people that love you and are looking out for you, they have the experience and insight to help. As soon as you start college, it's going to be a different schedule. You get to pick your own schedule, so right away, smart decisions need to be made. It is not more important to pick Fridays off so you can party with friends Thurday night and hang out all day on Friday. You will have fun when you finish college and live the life you were meant to live. It is not easier to slack off and have fun then struggle to become what you should have become. Listen to your parents!

Joelle

If I knew then, what I know now! I recently figured out what my parents met when they used this phrase. After graduating high school, I was demanded to attend college. But like most freshman's I didn't know what I wanted to do. As a mature adult I would tell young 18 year old Joelle the following. At such a young age, your thinking faculties and preception of life is not mature. Don't simply attend college, take classes and throw money away. Take a year or two to meditate and reflect on a career path. Gain some life experiences so that you can committ to a regimen of strenous study habits. Become independent away from your parents, so you can understand the value of a dollar and responsibilites. After you've gain years of insight and knowledge towards independence, college life will be more respected. Attending college will seem more of a priority instead of something your parents forced you to do. When you apply for student loans under your name it can not be in vain,study and pass all of your classes. Respect your youthful days and while attending college committ to daily study habits!

Alexis

If i were to go back and time and talk to my self about college i would say a few things. I would tell my self to grab at least an hour out of each day and apply for scholorships, I would also tell my self that i havr to get more time oriented and be organized. I would also tell myself to become open to new ideas and to get involed around campus.

Daniel

I would say, Daniel don't stress over the relationship with your girl friend. You should go on to college now and if you are still "head over hills" for her after you graduate from college and get a job and/or enter a profession, then think about a possible future. But let her also pursue her own education goals. Marriage should not be contemplated at this point in your life. You must explore life a little on your own first before taking on a family with all the responsibilities that go with it.

Yineth

As a senior in high school, try to focus on keeping up a good GPA and scoring well on the SAT/ACT. Don?t agonize over the people that appear to be your competition, even if they are seemingly ahead of you. College opportunities will enable you to advance as much as you would like to, you still have greater chances to make a name for yourself. Dare to try new endeavors. For instance, write for the college newspaper or work for the university leadership department. Another fruitful piece of advice is to follow your own goals and transition from high school to college with clear and realistic expectations. Get to know your own study habits and don?t ever be reluctant to ask for help fearing to appear less knowledgeable than others. The smartest person is the one that takes full advantage of all the resources available including free tutoring services. College will present you with countless avenues to augment and improve your individual skills in order to reach your full potential. Secondary education is the vastest ocean of positive choices that you would ever experience. Don?t fear its immensity, instead embrace its wonders and enjoy the ride.

shanique

Prepare for the SAT and ACT because scoring high on either of them can guarantee bright future scholarship to pay 75 or 100 percent tution for college. Maintaine a high GPA because colleges look at your academic performance history. Do scholarship searching early do not wait until the last minute to apply. Visit the college to establish your descion.

Janescia

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to study much harder. I would also tell myself to look beyond the horizon and between the lines and make the best out of my school days and teachers; learn all that I can to be prepared for college and also to not take things for granted. Then, I would tell myself to go visit some colleges and take mental as well as physical notes. Finally, I would tell myself that life is not easy and you have to be prepared for different situations that may come along in life.

makenta

assuming i could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, knkowing what i know about college life and making the transition, i would advise myself to take school seriously not be as fooling as i once was and indulge myself in learning what it is i went to college to learn instead of goofing around.

Dionte

I would tell myself to take school more seriously, due to the fact that in high school I was more or of a adverage student and I was content with that when I knew I could be a better student. Now that im in college I'm pushing myself to everyday to make up for what was lost or not picked up in high school.

Vivian

My advice to myself, would be to take things slowly. Put into action everything you're parents taught you. Remember where you come from. Don't procrastinate. Process everything. Prepare yourself. Be diligent. Be assertive. Be ready. Be open. Talk. Network. Make acquaintances. Make friends. Get involved. Be a leader. Be you. Make the best of it and enjoy yourself... you're there for the long run.

Kayla

The first thing I would tell myself as a high school senior is "Congratulation!! You just finished the easiest part of your life" college is no joke and teachers can make you want to quit at life sometimes. I know in high school you can have a lot of free time to just ?hang out? with friends and ?have fun?, which in college you can too, but the key is to have time management and determination. With both of these attributes you will be able to go far in life as well as to maintain a good GPA in college. Having determination in college you will also be able to handle teachers who treat you sometimes like a kid who doesn?t know how to add in math or count the ABC?s, which will only show you not to give in up and prove the teacher wrong. With acquiring skills to improve your time management throughout college you will be able to join a fraternity/sorority, clubs/organizations, socialize/party, going to class full time, and have a part time job, which can all be possible in just one day.

anam

the school and college is very precious time in which we made our good or bad memories but with these things we have to save our future and we have to acheive our goals ...so time is money .... i learnd this from my past

Kayla

The idea of going through college is a magnificent thought, but staying in college and aiming to graduate is a total different game plan. It has always been a main concern for my parents and me to find a way to pay for it with limited financial resources. Now my family?s situation has changed drastically from the financial point of view. On January 23rd ?09, my dad got a permanent laid off status from his Sarasota Company of almost seven (7) years. Now my family is facing a different challenge now that we are trying to survive with one (1) pay check income from my mom. I need to mention also that our home is in a ?lin penden? on its way to foreclosure; (documents will be provided upon request) which means soon we have to move and rent an apartment or a small house. It is also an additional financial burden helping my brother Kevin who is still studying to become an engineer and is currently enrolled at Manatee Community College in Venice, Florida. Final thought: I should preparer myself much better when it comes to financial aid, and ask more questions to my school counselors on site.

Jennacca

The advice that I would give myself if entering college, knowing what I now know would be to never give up, and do not be afraid to take risks. This can allow an individual to discover things about themselves they never knew. Another piece of advice that I would give would be to make friends with everybody, and be open to new experiences. By doing this you can discover some important lessons from another persons culture. Ask questions, even when you think you know the answer, or that you are doing it correctly. This can help to remember things for future exams. Have quality time management skills in order to be succesful in planning for tests and research papers.

Rayna

If I could go back to talk to myself in highschool, I would tell myself to attend classes, focus on the long-term and be open to ideas about school. I would also encourage myself to get a tutor for classes such as algebra in order to better prepare myself for entry exams. The last most important advice I would give myself would be to accept and move forward when challenged, rather than giving up, to enhance my self-esteem and problem-solving skills.

Kayla

High school and college life are so much different in many ways. Parents are practically out of the picture and we have to be responsible and do the best of myself [in my case, of course] I'm so sure about the program that I pick during my HS years, since I was always intrigue by technology and always love to see over the horizon with a different perspective. The idea of going through college is a magnificent thought, but staying in college and aiming to graduate is a total different game plan. It has always been a main concern for my parents and me to find a way to pay for it with limited financial resources. I just can?t believe myself that I am already starting my junior year at Nova this fall semester, and will be working part-time again at UTS (University Technical Services) on campus in order to help a little bit. I would not change the wonderful experiences I had at SLU for anything in the world. But, there are 1 issue where I would really advise HS seniors now: Get better Financial Aid preparation way in advance to avoid inconvinients to your parents.

Samantha

...(kicks myself).....What are you doing Samantha don`t you know what you have to prepare. Maybe you should take it easy your first semester of classes. Becoming a Doctor is not only your goal but its your dream you can`t slack. Don`t you know to get into a good medical school you have a C average in every class or better. Remember that medical school is what your aiming for, so you might want to examine science a little bit more closer. You don`t have to get on facebook today,...read your Bio honors book, it will really help you in the long run. Always remember...I can DO ALL THINGs....I CAN DO ALL THINGs....I am more than a conqueror.

Kayla

The first thing I would tell myself as a high school senior is "Congratulation!! You just finished the easiest part of your life" college is no joke and teachers can make you want to quit at life sometimes. I know in high school you can have a lot of free time to just ?hang out? with friends and ?have fun?, which in college you can too, but the key is to have time management and determination. With both of these attributes you will be able to go far in life as well as to maintain a good GPA in college. Having determination in college you will also be able to handle teachers who treat you sometimes like a kid who doesn?t know how to add in math or count the ABC?s, which will only show you not to give in up and prove the teacher wrong. With acquiring skills to improve your time management throughout college you will be able to join a fraternity/sorority, clubs/organizations, socialize/party, going to class full time, and have a part time job, which can all be possible in just one day.

Brian

I would say to myself that it is important to stay focus and not to yield to the various distractions that are present in college. I would also say to myself that it is important to not to tak life too seriously ,get involved in various programs , and seek out work oppertunities (like a part time job,intership,volunteer work, etc) in order to build up confidence and ability to deal with other individuals. In addition, I would say that I need to make better life choices in order to be successful in life. Basically, I would try to aim for a good academic life as well as a good social life. Finally, I would say to myself that it is important to find a major that I like but at the same time I would choose something that will help me find a good job when I graduate from college.

Diana

If I could go back in time I would tell myself to earn my degree right out of HighSschool so that I could go on to Graduate School. In fact, I would probably earn multiple degrees because higher education is a valuable resource. The experience that you have in college is like no other. You make life long friends and you are sorrounded by other people who care about their future. Professors are a great resource at school and once you have graduated. They can serve as a reference if they believe that you were a dedicated student. One other important tip that I would give myself is to excell in High School so that you can obtain scholarships. The cost of education is rising everyday but it is well worth the price.

Marvel

College life can be fun as well as dangerous. College life as with any other area in life is what you make of it. Know what you stand for. You will feel pressured to do things you know is wrong. Just stay true to yourself and you will be just fine. It is not all about the books. Take time to enjoy yorself. Have a fair balance..

Sarah

Four years may seem like forever, but it goes by quickly, so set goals and have future plans. Take things one day at a time, but don?t loose sight of the bigger picture. Eventually, you will reach those long term goals without being overwhelmed. Go to class, ask questions, and participate. It?s your education, and you?re paying for it, so you might as well get something out of it. Make friends in each of your classes ? together you form a support system for each other. If you need help- ask for it. Most of the professors are willing to work with you, and they want to see you succeed. If you aren?t sure what you want to major in, work on completing the general education classes. Try classes in different disciplines- you never know when you might stumble across your future career path. If you think you know what you want to major in, job shadow/ intern in the area- that way there won?t be any surprises. Utilize resources like the library, your advisor, and your common sense. College is a privilege and an opportunity. Make the most out of your time as a student.

Angelica

Thinking back to my senior year of high school, I remember the anxious feeling in the pit of my stomach that resulted from the wait for my college acceptance letter. I had worked four long years to get this far, and now it all boiled down to one piece of paper. When I opened the mailbox and saw the envelope from the university I hoped to attend, I could barely breathe. I wished so badly that it contained good news, and thankfully it did. I'll never forget that day. I was filled with so much emotion, both happy and nervous at the same time. I had been accepted, but now everything was going to change. New campus, new friends, new life...could I handle all of that? Looking back, I didn't have much faith in myself. But now, I am a productive college student with a great grade point average and wonderful friends. My life couldn't be better. If my present self could go back in time and talk to scared little senior me, I would tell myself that I can handle anything. Everything life throws at me I will face head on...and I will succeed.

Tanesha

fully research the program that the individual wishes to enter at the particular school of choice. also, look for the extra curricular activities that might be of interest.

Zachary

Work hard now, play later!

Ericka

Keep open mind, examine all options

Cherie

To the parents, I would advise them to encourage their child to look into the college or univeristy that will best fit the academic and social personality that would benefit them the most. Academics are great to look at, but the student wants to feel socially involved as well. Make sure the school has a great orientation program for new students and also provides plenty of extra curricular activities that they would be interested in. I advise the students to make the best of their college experience by taking charge of their education. During the years in college, they will make many decisions that may affect the rest of their life based on what career parth they may endeavour into. Communicate regularly with advisors on courses to take and how many credits they will need for graduation. Decide what you can handle academically so you can also balance your social life. If you know that taking too many courses one semester just to get ahead will cut out on your ability to socialize with friends, don't spread yourself too thin. Finally, enjoy this time of your life! It will fly by very fast!

Sabrina

Research the school. Everything from the teachers, to the students. You need to know what surroundings you will be placing yourself in. Try to pick a school where the credentials are there, yet you feel most comfertable in.

Tamara

RESEARCH

Wael

I would suggest that they decide the intended major if possible since schools differ in the strengths of each department. If not I would suggest to choose the place that feels comfortable to the studnet since he/she is going to live four years of his/her life there.

Javeshnev

Ensure that when picking a college you take into consideration not only the schools pricing, but the schools environmental effect on its students. If you go to what is deemed a "party school" then forget about a proper education. Your purpose is to get a profession, not to fool around. The schools academic plans, the schools prestige, finances, learning disability assistance, tutoring assistance, scholarships offered, diversity, and above all class size. Those that do not like class sizes above thirty students ought to consider small private Universities over public, those that prefer large class sizes ought to consider large public Universities.

Shilpa

Make sure you visit the campus and explore all of the educational opportunities and what you would like to study before choosing your college. Also it's important to make sure the college fits you, whether it be small and personal, large and social, in a big city, small town, etc.

Nottania

Be realistic interms of what you expect from your college experience. Sit in several of the upper division classes for your major, as well as, ask freshmen and seniors to be honnest with you interms of their likes and dislikes in regards to the academics, faculty, social life, and course work load, and most importanlty, advisors.

Sheela

Find a school that you can call your second home! A place where you will grow, mature and discover much about yourself. College is a monumental time in your life and you want to walk away from this experience with no regrets.

Dana

Visit a lot of schools.

Brandi

Make sure that you and your child visit the college along with several others to make a list of the pros and cons.

Daniel

Make sure that you visit the campus. Also, it would be a good idea to speak with current students and see how they like the school and try to see if you can get any advice from them as well. Talk to advisors about special programs. Talk to financial advisors to discusses various payment options. The biggest college isn't always the best. Sometimes, it is the smaller, lesser known ones that can provide a more than adequate academic environment. Make sure you know your research. Know everything about the school you are about to go into. It is better to spend extra time doing research than to not spend any and regret attending the school later on. I enjoyed filling out this survey and I hope that my answers are adequate for your study. Thank you.

Lorena

If I were to give advice to anyone going to college it would be " make your own college experience". Get involved ! If you don't look for anything fun and engaging to do you wont see it. If you go to a school that isn't really vibrant search for the fun it. Join a club, sorority, or fraternity. It's a great way to network and meet lifetime friends that will make you feel at home and more comfortable. Also, don't expect for anyone to hold your hand. If you need help go to tutoring and become friends with your advisor. Don't lose focus in your classes, because it is difficult to catch up and bring up your GPA. You are also paying for those classes it is a good idea to pass them the first time around so that you don't waste money. I would also tell a new student that it's ok to party, but it isn't a good idea to party if you havent done your work. When looking fo r a college consider what you can afford, and make sure you find a school that focuses on your main interests.

Juan

First to make sure the college offers the career that you want to study. The right price and make sure is the school you feel comfortable in.

Stephanie

I would say don't pick a college because the campus looks good. Research and look at the class sizes and read up about teachers. Maybe even take a look at clubs.

Belkis

Make sure you feel right at home when you go visit the school.

Stephanie

Find a college that fits your major, also find a school that is not very far from home, a culturally diverse school is good to learn new customs, a school with cozy dorms, good security, good extra curricular activities, a gym, many clubs, good organizations. Also, a school that will accept your financial aid. High quality professors, an honors program, a school with a good reference library. Also, a school that looks good and is in a location that has moderate temperature year round.

Stacy

Choose a college that fits you, whether you're into the college life, studying, making friends, etc. This is starting the foundation to your life, your career. Pick a college you will be proud to say you attended. Pick a college you believe will help you succeed. Most importantly pick a college that you KNOW you feel comfortable in to attain all of these things. Make sure you find out what the average class size is, how helpful the teachers are, learning resources, extracurricular activites, college life, passing rates, financial aid, cost of classes and books, etc. Decide which traits are most important to you as a potential student of that college. When you finally find a school, your best friend will me balance. Balance your personal life, friends, and study time. Remember studying will get good grades, which will take you on a path to a successful future. Friends will always be there. Balance them so you don't slack in any area. It's a big decision, so take your time and think about all aspects of becoming a college student.