Palm Beach Atlantic University Top Questions

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

Janella

If i was a senior in high school again I would push myself to do better in school and not give up. I would apply to colleges early and get prepared for the next chapter in my life. I would'nt fight with my friends over drama that meant nothing. You will look back at the decisions you made and all the friendships that you lost over drama. In college you meet friends that will one day be in your wedding, or by your side for the rest of your life. Always remember to choose the right friends because you don't want to be going through high school drama all over again. Anyways, college can be very fun but when it comes down to your future you need to give it your all. You have to push yourself and show what you're capable of doing. You may get overwhelmed with all the work at once but this is how you get prepared and consider time management. Lastly, pray every day because Jesus is the only one that can really help you and give you all the right answers you need.

Meghan

If I could go back to a year ago and give myself one tip of advise about college, I would tell myself to reach out of my comfort zone and join as many clubs as I can to gain friends and to become involved. I was always the quiet person but college is a whole new ball game. Communicating with others can involve doing good deeds for the community. One of my first projects I had done as a student at Palm Beach Atlantic University was helping assist teachers at a low income school in a poverty area. I by far stepped out of my confort zone, however I changed my veiw on the world. That day my life changed for the better. To this day, I am an active volunter at the school and it fulfills my soul knowing I am touching hundreds of little childrens lives everyday. If I could go back to myself senior year of high school, I would tell myself to jump out of my comfort zone because God has a special plan for everyone and mine was found by crawling out of my shell which I called my comfort zone.

Katie

The advice I would give myself is to not be afraid of taking chances and seizing opportunities. Like any other college freshman, I was nervous about starting college. I tried to make friends, but I was timid. I wanted to join clubs, but I was afraid I wouldn't like them. I wanted to go to events, but I wasn't sure if I would know anyone there, so often times I didn't. Looking back, I wish I had made the first move and introduced myself to more people, joined the clubs, and gone to the events. Overall, my college experience has been great, but I know that it could have been better if I hadn't succumbed to my fears. I've realized that four years isn't as long as it sounds. I'm only going to do this once, so why not make the most of the opportunities I have?

Leah

Dear Younger Me, Listen, I know you don't like school, but trust me, it'll be worth it in the end. In the beginning, you aren't going to like it, you're going to think it's stupid and you're only doing it because your mom made you. Stick with it, because it gets so much better. You are going to meet so many different and fascinating people and you are going to learn so many amazing things. Sure, there will be some tough assignments, and you'll consider quitting, but there will also be moments that will be filled with friends and fun and joy when you complete that tough assignment. You may not believe me or anyone else who tells you that going to college is a good thing, but eventually, you'll figure it out. Hang in there. Leah P.S. Don't forget to turn in that Psychology homework. It's the only thing that stops you from getting an A.

Gina

Dear High School Gina, Let me be honest. You procrastinate a lot, and will surely do the same in college. BUT, knowing college work is going to take longer than one night to complete, please don't wait. Remember when you waited to do that one English project? And you had a legitimate panic attack? Practice some self discipline and dilligence now so that it won't be so new and difficult to adjust to in college. Time management is the key to success in college. A nap may seem quite appealing, but drink some coffee and fight! -College Gina

Jeremiah

When in the decision process, make sure you are not settling for anything. College is going to be expensive, so you should not have to settle for any part of the experience. These should be the best years of your life, so make sure you do not regret the decision you make. The friends you make will guide you on a good or bad path. Do not be afraid to choose not to hang out with certain people you know will lead you down the wrong path. College is not a place to party every weekend, but a place to obtain an education. There is no reason to waste the money you are investing in the education just to drink it away. You can do that without going to college. Unless your life depends on your grades, the friendships you gain in college will be some that last forever, so choose to hang out with your friends rather than spending the extra hour studying for something you are already prepared for. There is a fine line between your social life and time spent with education. You have to decide what this line is, no body else can.

Shaeyla

The advice I would give myself is to make sure I know exactly where I want to go and to explore all my options because you don't want to go somewhere and be unhappy.

Didrick

If I could go back in time to talk to my senior self about college life and making the transition, I would tell myself to be prepared with a new environment. There will be things you will be unfamiliar with and people who you are not accustomed to, and you might feel uncomfortable at first, but you will get used to it within the first month. You will have to deal with roommates, some you will like and some you won’t like. However, try to build a relationship with them, and it will become easier. The classes you will be taking for your major will be difficult, but they will be easy as you progress. Find some clubs and interest groups you might be interested in. Do as much as you can while you are in college. Enjoy it, for it will be a great experience.

Megan

Don't stress out about the transition. It really is not that bad. You are not leaving your family. They are always a phone call or Skype call away and when you get to university, you will make great friends who will be your family. They will support you and love you in the same way that your family back at home did and still does. The academics are nothing to be scared of as long as you manage your time wisely and apply yourself to your studies. Also, join clubs. Get involved. Not only is this a great way to make new friends, but you will also learn a lot.

Belen

Often have I mused about this: if ever the opportunity presented itself, the first thing I would tell myself to seek immediate guidance from a school counselor to explain the process of applying to the UCs for the fall semester and the requirements needed. In high school I was virtually unaware of the application process and had no one to guide me. All around me my classmates were talking how they had been acceptable to UC Berkeley, UC Irvine and there I was perplexed. I would also tell myself to save a substantial amount of my earnings and only have enough available cash for things like gas and school materials. Those savings would have been beneficial for the study abroad trip to Cambridge University this summer. But most importantly, I would tell myself to sit down with my parents and discuss with them the importance of going to university and asking them for their moral support and encouragment which is what I have needed even now.

Alyssa

The transition from high school to college is extremely intimidating and overwhelming. However, this transition is also very exciting! If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, there are some things I would advise myself about! First and foremost, I would remind myself how blessed I am to have family and friends who love me and support me. I would tell myself to show appreciation to all of these people and enjoy every single moment with them. Transitioning to college requires moving to a new place with new people. I would tell myself to remember all of my loved ones while working on forming new relationships. The second thing I would tell myself is to take everything one step at a time. The transition can become overwhelming and confusing. It is so important to not let yourself get overwhelmed. I would tell myself to take baby steps, set goals, and do everything in my power to accomplish those goals. In conclusion, there are some wonderful terms of advice I would give myself if I could go back in time and advise myself as a high school senior about to transition to college.

Brandon

High school is a time of angst, stress, and desperation. Throughout my high school education I put so much pressure on myself to succeed and I aspired to develop my scholastic skills exceeding those of my peers. Now that I am a college student, the only advice I would give myself is not to change a single thing. Within the hard times it may have seemed impossible, but this only strengthened me intellectually. I do not believe in living with regrets and I strongly believe in the concept of gaining wisdom from past experience. Everything I have done in my past, including my senior year of high school, has only aggrandized my perspective on life. In retrospect, I believe that everything I have accomplished aptitudinally molded me into the person I am today and that without my past, I couldn't glorify my present prosperity.

Stephanie

First, complete the FAFSA as soon as possible. Procrastinating will just lead to a lot more effort later. Second, Don't become a part-time student. Ever! The Federal Grant just doesn't cover everything and you will end up owing the school money we just don't have. If you are late at registering, it's better to wait for the next semester and becoming full-time. Third, for Senior onward you should be completing every free scholarship and grant that you can find. Don't think that it isn't necessary yet, because you aren't in college. As soon as you hit Senior, even the summer before you become senior you should start completing applications like there is no tomorrow. Fourth, and most importantly, do your work. I didn't and had to do another year, and I still procrastinated and had to get a GED wasting 2 years, that I could have been in college for already. Stop procrastinating, I know we are good at it, but it isn't good for us. We have a lot of work in the future and we should start working on our procrastination right away.

Cole

After one year of college, there are a few things that I wish I knew during my senior year that I know now. If I could go back in time to my senior year and give myself advice, I would tell myself the obvious things like always putting school ahead of sports and sleep, and I'd tell myself to put more effort into saving money and not spending so much on food or other temporary things. But more importantly, I'd tell myself to be prepared to grow up and take on more personal responsibilities. College life can throw a lot of new, unexpected responsibilities into your life, and it is very difficult at times to remember what you came to college to accomplish. Mistakes are easily made but sometimes not so easily fixed. I would tell myself to have a great time, meet new people, explore new interests, but,, I would remind myself that I am now an adult and have to make smart, adult decisions. These tips, had I understood them better during my senior year of high school, would have pointed me in the right direction of success.

michael

If I could go back in time I would remind myself to enjoy the moment because it only gets harder in college. Enjoy your friends because once you graduate you really won't see them as much. That whole idea of "yeah we'll keep in touch!" can be a difficult to make a reality. There are going to be a lot of barriers to you getting an education. When I mean a lot I mean a ton! There will be financial barriers, plenty of test and assignments, time conflicts, and sometimes your own personal drive can run low. YOU HAVE TO STAY POSITIVE AND KEEP GOING! I know that you will need to spend plenty of time on your studies but trust me and spend a great deal of time on the art of staying positive! Even the smartest people can be brought down because of their own negativity but an average joe with determination and a positive attitude can be a someone who can change their life and even the world for the better.

Paige

Dear High Senior Me, You are going to LOVE college. It is a blast, this is the time in you life when you'll have the most amout of freedom with the least amount of responsibilties. However, it's not easy. You are going to need to work hard in order to suceed. Time management is key to getting the most out of your college years. Get enough sleep at night so you don't need a nap during the day. That way you can get your homework done between classes and have all the time in the world to hang out in the evenings. Also, college is EXPENSIVE!!! Right now, you don't have a full grasp on the reality of how much it will cost you. There will come a point when it hits you hard and terrifies you. My suggestion, save more now! It's not the most fun or easiest thing to do, but do it. Have conversations with your friends rather than sitting in front of a movie screen and spending $10, etc. Lastly, HAVE FUN! Don't let worries keep you from fully experiencing your life right now. Your Future Self, Me

Richard

The advice I would give myself would be to make more of an effort in obtaining the financial assistance needed to attend college after high school. A college education is very important to move up in the corporate world. Wiothout a college degree many companies will only allow you to move up so far. Earning that college degree will give you more opportunities to move forward, and earn a good salary. It will also provide a means of understanding, and figuring out what it is that you want to do in life. Many people already know at a young age what it is that want to do, but there are also many that need time to figure it out. College life is definitely a good place to start.

NaTaya

I would tell myself to apply for as many scholarships as possible because you never know how much money you'll need. I would also state to join more activities and to start saving money for a car because you will need one to get to your classes.

Alan

1. Have an understanding of what field of study you want to get into 2. Stay focused and motivated so that you can recieve good grades 3. Work hard in whatever you do, no matter the circumstances. 4. Never make excuses

Eric

It's a dangerous road, this life, and if you don't keep up, suffering is at the door.

Ashley

I would tell myself to go to local community school for my first two years to save money, and then to transfer to a university so that I don't have to take out loans. To eat out less, save more, and only buy things that are nessecities. Get all the hours you can at work, and spend more time with your family.

Kathryn

I would tell myself to just try harder my first two years and then I would not be a graduating late and without my friends. I have learned alot about myself these last four years and I have no regrets just wishes that I want to fulfill.

Fallon

I wouldn't go to the most expensive school because it's take a long time to pay off student loan. Find the major that you really want to do. Sometime its hard to find job after graduate from college with most competitive job. Make sure you check rate my professors website before take the class. I remember I took the worst english professor I ever had and I had to drop the class. The most important is to review student's comment about their expereince with the professors before you take him or her. Visit around the campus before you attend because to make sure to feel comfortable.

renata

I would tell myself to not procrastinate. There is always something fun going on but assignment deadlines creep up on you and doing things ahead of time will save you a lot of stress. Also just relax! This may seem contrary to the first bit of advice but adequate sleep and chill time is part of a balanced and healthy lifestyle that will also help you to reduce stress. Some more advice is budget budget budget! College students are known for being broke and there are many reasons for that. When friends constantly want to see movies on the weekends or go on late night taco bell runs it really eats into your finances. Budgeting will allow you to make sure you have enough money to do laundry, buy groceries, and not freak out when unexpected expenses are thrown your way.

Pamela

College life at Keiser University mostly is revolved around academics. Here the sutdents take one class per month and even finish with a degree faster than a normal student at a local university. I would reccommend looking, huntung and scouring, or saving for grants or scholarships to be able to afford the campus. There is not much time for a social life. Most students work full time and concentrate on their academics in their spare time. I would recommend before one goes to college, to know what they would like to do and have an idea of what profession they would like to pursue as an older adult. Attending here will require one to come out of their turtle, anti social shells and focus on being a bit more social and friendly on campus. College requires studens to cooperate and complete projects in groups where the entire group participates in all aspects of the project and if one does not particip[ate then it reflects in their grade. It is necessary to focus on ones studies, it is essential here. The professors will bend over backwards to try to help spmeone understand what they are teaching in class.

Julia

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would have given myself some advice on family, friends, and focus. Since being away at college, I have had only an iota of time to spend with my family. My visits tend to be limited to the four major breaks in the school year--Thanksgiving, Christmas, spring break, and summertime-- wheras in high school, I had a practically unlimited amount of opportunities to spend with my family. If I could time travel back to that time, I would have encouraged myself to invest more in those lasting relationships I have in my family and less with those short-lived high school friendships. Although some of my friends from home are some of my best friends, most of my friendships died off, even some of my closest ones. Furthermore, in retrospect, my focus was not in the right place when I left high school. I was too enveloped by the idea that I had to find "the one" as soon as possible instead of being completely devoted to my studies, and as a result, I allowed my heart to be broken too many times.

Lauren

I have learned an expertise in my field of study while gaining meaningful relationships and a strengthening of my faith. I have enjoyed my time at this school and continue to work for my benefit. I have seen spiritual and academic growth in tremendous ways in just the 3 years that I have been here.

Nya

Ever since I was 8 years old, I wanted to live and attend school in North Carolina. College was the first opportunity I had to make that dream a reality, and I took advantage of it. I am so glad I did. The relationships I have built while in college will last a lifetime. This experience has also taught me how to manage my finances and time. I have become better at prioritizing which has helped me in every aspect of my life.

Rebekah

I have experienced being on my own, which really make me apprciate my parents even more. I have noticed that depending on God is the best decision that a college student would ever make. When situations become stressful and you may feel like you cannot bear it anymore, that is the time when you need to hand it over to God and let Him take absolute control. Trust in God and depend on Him for everything! This is what the college experience has taught me and this is why it is so significant to me.

Lauren

After spending three years as a Business major, I confidently made the decision to transition into the study of Pharmacy. The transition into the Pharmacy program has been one of the most difficult challenges I have faced in my life thus far. Coming from a background of business, it was quite a shock turning my focus to the study habits of a pre-health major. Enduring such a demanding course load forced me to modify and enhance my old study habits in order to succeed. Along the way I have been up against some of the greatest challenges that have lead to both success and failure. The application process into the upcoming Pharmacy Graduate program has been yet another demanding encounter. Through out my college experience I have encountered much stress and pressure to compete against others with the same common interest. It has been a bumpy road thus far, but I am deeply committed to pursuing the dream of becoming a Pharmacist. My devotion has allowed a positive attitude to stay in the game, while I strive for the best of what is to come next in the Pharmacy program.

Beverly

I have not attended the universty yet but attending a school tour and meeting with my counselor is something great i truly enjoyed it and the people there i know it will be a fresh start with a great surrounding, many achievements, plenty accomplishments, and lastly building such faith within God and myself.

Jonathan

From my experience at Palm Beach Atlantic University, I have gained a great deal of wisdom and been placed in some situations that are nothing short of unique that have allowed me to grow in countless ways. From Experiences abroad including an accidental arrest in India, to volunteering and leading community service projects in my local community; PBA has been an ideal place to show that you do not have to have much to give a gift and touch a life. Sitting on campus one mile from one of the richest places on earth to the east and one of the neediest places in the country to the west is a perspective that cannot be gained at very many schools. PBA is truly a one of a kind school and a one of a kind experience showing that there is more to a university than you can ever gain from a pamphlet. ..oh and the classroom learning is great too!

Kaitlyn

The point of going to college is to receive the best education possible in order to pursue the career of choice; however, what most students fail to realize is that college is not just an academic institution of preference, but rather, a complete lifestyle. I have personally grown in so many different ways since I started attending Palm Beach Atlantic University two years ago. College has become so much more than an education. During the last two years I have discovered myself as a person, been actively involved in the community, held many diverse leadership positions on campus and I have also learned how to be a more rounded individual. Palm Beach Atlantic University has enabled me to develop into the well rounded person I am today. During my last two years at pba I have given back to the community through workship opportunities, and I have also held leadership positions such as orientation leader for freshman, and Resident assistant for my hall. In conclusion I have learned how to better cope with change, conflict, and stress. College has opened doors and taught me how to succeed, how to be a leader, and how to thrive as an educated individual.

Joanne

During my college experience, I made a handful of lifelong friends and worked hard to learn as much as I possibly could. Due to how closed-minded many of the people on campus were, I learned a lot about how I don?t want to act towards others. Overall, I grew as a individual and academically.

melissa

college is a great experience. It gives you an opportunity to learn, interact with students and grow as an individual. i have personally grown to mature and look at the world in different perspectives. i have learned that you cannot conquer what you dont confront in life. That whatever i put my mind to i can achieve it.

Anthony

College has taught me some of the most valueable life lessons. I finally got the chance to be on my own. I had no fear surprisingly and began to take my role as an independent adult. I now have no fear of being on my own along with the knowledge I now have plus the beginning of my collegiately volleyball career.

Erica

I love attending college! It's gives me hope that someday I will have my dream career and be able to help children in other countries speak English! It's extremely difficult to find the financial means to attend college , however, I'm positive that it will be worth it when I am the first of my family to graduate college!

Ruth

Dear Ruth as a senior, First, you should take time to invest in your teachers as much as they have invested in you. When you look back on all they have done for you, you will realize that they did more than the ?job? required. Second, use your time wisely. I know that you think you are using your time to the your best ability, but just because you are taking hard classes, being captain of the soccer team, working at Publix part-time, and attending church weekly, does not mean that you are enjoying life. For instance, classes are there for you to gain knowledge, not just to get the A+ that you desire. Also, this soccer season will be your last, so enjoy every second of it (even the horrible running drills) you will miss it terribly next year. Lastly and the most important piece of advice, build up your friendships! You have great friends that love every inch of you. Do not take them for granted, set aside time for them daily. I tell you this because next year you will be moving to West Palm Beach! That?s right; you got into your dream college!

cesar

all the time you still learn and learn

Candy

If I could talk to myself back in high school I would've told my self to study harder. I would've also told myself that college was not going to be as easy as I wanted it to be. It's easy to be a high school student and that's not entirely a good thing. I would probaby advice myself to find a high school that's a bit more challenging than the one I attended. I would studied harder for the SATs and the ACTs. I would take college courses that could help me succeed in scoring high on those standardized tests. I would have told myself to try harder and not to settle for anything but the best. I would've also told myself to worrk on my attitude problem and to learn how to be less hot headed and not to take things so seriously. I would probably tell myself to be more socialble because in college good social skills can also get you far. I wish I could back in time and tell myself to build relationships with my teachers, in college that can also help me out.

Tiara

Knowing what I know now about college and the transition, if I were to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior there is not much advice that I would give myself. I have always been a free spirited person and I like to be fearless and challenged, so going to college for me was already a challenge. The only advice I would have, would be to have a good financial plan. By me not having a real financial plan or knowing how to budget, I had to sacrifice the college of my dreams. Or so I thought it was, until I attended a better school. There is no possible way to give accurate advice for college because it all depends on the person and how well he or she adjust to change. College is all about experience and transitioning, and you cant prepare too much for that.

Thuy

If I could go back in time and talk to myself, I would tell myself to make the best of my academics. Grasp the materials the first time around will build a good learning foundation. This will help guide you when you have to self-teach the course materials in college. Invest the time to join clubs and get involved in social activities. These opportunities will expand your social skills and help you become a well rounded team player. Also do not be afraid to take risks and put yourself out there, chances are you have more to gain than to lose. This lesson will open up opportunities in your journey of life.

shawna

Hi shawna, i am you in the future in January 2010, getting started with collage with you is going to be a rough start, because of you having those babies, also it is going to be hard for you to finish high school, but you do it. One thing that i want to tell you is for you to just not have sex, and at that just try not to have any relationships they can really make you fall behind. Also just to tell you that first and for most keep your school at the top of any of your list, that you may make. In the long run you will thank me that i gave you this advice, having kids really slow you down and when you think that you can not have twins you do just keep school your top prority.

Sasha

The advice that I would give to myself is to take college seriously. I would tell myself to do all the homework when it is given, and not wait until when it is due to cram. I would also advise myself to participate in all the school's activities, go on all workship (community service) opportunities, and do everything that I can to do my best in school. I would tell myself that college wasn't like high school and that I shouldn't change my major many times. I would also advise that I shouldn't show up late to any classes, and that I shouldn't miss any classes as well if I could help it and be there. I would also advise myself to do the absolute best I could in school.

Rebekah

Be prepared for separation anxiety and slight depression when you move away from home. Everyone talks about how fun and independent college is but not many people tell you about how much you are affected when you live on your own for the first time. Spending time in the bible is a huge help. At times you will feel like leaving college altogether and going back home, but just try to work through it because the depression will pass.

Silene

If I was to go back in time as a high school student there would be many things I would tell myself about college. The first thing I would tell myself is to not be a procrastinator. That I need to get my homework done that day I receive the assignment. Some other wise words I would tell myself would be that college is not all about studying, that I need to go out and have fun but only after my homework is done. The last thing I would tell myself as a high school student is the biggest of all; when I need help, go get it do not wait until it is too late. I would make sure as a high school student I understand that help is the way to succeed when I am struggling. If I could go back and tell myself what to do in college to thrive this would be it. Also I would be willing to share these secrets with anyone going to college.

Jessica

I would tell me as a high school senior to pace myself. It's not necessary to join everything and do everything that college offers in the first year. I would tell myself to prepare to get way more organized than I ever was in highschool. My senior self would also need to know that friendships are made over time and that you don't need to rush or cling to people just so you don't feel alone. I would let myself know that I will make a lot of mistakes and have hard times but that I will learn from those mistakes and that as long as I keep trying I can push through the hard times. I would like to let myself as a senior know that this is just another leap I have to brave to make it to where I want to be in life. I'd tell myself to stay myself and do whatever it takes to get the most knowledge, educational and otherwise, out of this experience.

Jeanne

Never say never and don't go in with expectations. College is what you make of it, what you put in to the school you will get out of the school. The moment you say I will never, most likely you will. When you have an expectation you will be let down. College is a lot different then high school. Things that were a big deal in high school are no longer important in college. Be open to new experiences and different people. It is the people that you would never be friends with in high school that turn out to be some of your closest friends. If people have a different view then you, that is okay, it is the different views and ideas that challenge you and shape you into a better person. Any opportunity that comes your way take it! You won't regret the experience or meeting new people!

cindy

Oh Cindy you have a long way to grow! Don't worry about today and your lack of education or desire to learn because that will soon change; although, it may take twenty some years. Sit back, learn about who you are, and love the Lord. What's that you say? You don't have a personal relationship with Christ? You don't even know who He is? That's ok He has you in His arms and will guide your path! It may hurt a bit but He knows the way, just trust! Ps. Cindy, you will learn to love yourself, even with your disability! I am proud of you! :) Serving Christ with a smile and loving it! YOU/ME xxxooo

Jon

i wouldn't give myself any. i took a year off after highschool which gave me enough time to think about what i wanted and to go for it.