Palm Beach Atlantic University Top Questions

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

Nicole

If I could go back to when I was a high school senior I would tell myself a few things: one would be to enjoy your time here while it lasts, because after this it is time to buckle down. The second thing that I would tell myslelf would be that when I ask the teacher "When am I ever going to use this?," I would tell myself that I am going to use it in college and that is all that matters. The last thing that I would tell myself is to apprieciate the teachers that I have because once you get to college they don't care about you like they do here. If I had told myself these things I owuld have been able to enjoy t more because I would know what to expect.

suleka

I would have paid more attention and school, and made sure I have it my very best. Even though I graduated with pretty good grades, I could have done better to get a perfect 4.0. Better grades equal more oportunities such as full scholarships, where I wouldn't have to worry about the cost of school now.

Christina

I would have told myself to go with my first college choice, Humboldt State University instead of havingg to try and transfer to the college. Because Palm Beach Atlantic University don't really care about their students even though they say that they do, that the school is more consider about get money out of the students. Humboldt State University cares about their students, are eco-friendly, culturally diverse, and where the students help each other out.

Christina

I was a senior in the International Baccalorate Program of Atlantic High School in Delray Beach Florida. I was actively involved in Drama and scholastic achievement. If anything, I would advise myself to search for more scholarships and spend more time building relationships. I overachieved and left high school with few relationships. I also am currently struggling with finances; I should've taken the opporuntity to search for more scholarships so that I could focus on learning instead of earning money.

Grace

The advice that I would give myself would be fairly simple: to keep doing what you're doing, because you're going to end up in the right place. Don't worry or stress about it, because you picked the college that you were meant to attend.

Stephanie

Don't transfer, get involved and study hard. DO A REAL INTERNSHIP!

Anthony

Make sure that, for one, the school has the major you want to pursue. Also, try to choose a school where you are more than a number; small class sizes are great for getting your own ideas challenged and growing through the Socratic process. Make sure the social environment is bareable; you'll be stuck with these people for a while. Cho0se a school that makes you do things hands on; taking that step of faith is necessary and emboldening. When you get to that school, be open to meet new people and at least listen to new ideas. Don't accept every idea that comes by. Be your own person and challege those things. Be serious about work, but don't hide yourself away socially. Stay focused: decide what your goal are, and do what needs to be done to reach them because it is easy to get sidetracked in the plethora of social activities. If you are undecided, don't worry; it's not that you are unmotivated or lazy, it's that you like so much of everything that you don't know what to chose. Don't procrastinate.

Brett

As a student who works in the admissions office of my school, I cannot stress enough to any prospective college student and his or her parents the importance of visiting the schools you are interested in and speaking with admissions counselors (or even deans) about what you're interested in. Be sure to ask if you can sit in on a class, because that will give you a great idea about what the experience will be like. These things are absolutely crucial, because almost any college will sound perfect for you on paper, so the onus is on you to visit and decide for yourself if it actually IS your dream school. Besides, there are a lot of admissions staff as well as financial aid people that will look at your file and call you less interested than other prospectives if you haven't visited. The more interested you are, the more money you'll be likely to get, because you'll be in what they would call the targeted group.

Chelsea

College is what you make it. Of course, everyone has preferences as to where they would like to go and where they wouldn't want to be. If you find a school that you're excited to attend, bring that attitude with you when you head to college! There is no other feeling like the excitement that goes along with going to college. Once you arrive at the school, be yourself and get involved. Whether it's small activities or something big such as playing a sport, put yourself in places that will cause you to meet new people. The community feeling of a university is created because of the fact that people know each other and are involved with their school. The experience of college can be extremely rewarding once you choose to make yourself happy and excited about being at school.Friendships that you make in college will be the ones that you cherish for years. My personal experience in college has been amazing because of the friends that I've made. Those are the friends that will know you most intimately and get you through. If you want to make the most of college,make your mark.

Rachel

I believe a prospective student should always carefully consider not only the type of school he would like to attend, but also the location he would like to be and the type of people with which he feels comfortable. If the student would like to attend a school of high standing then the reputation of a school is very important. Time should be taken to research different schools' histories. If the student has already chosen a major, a school should have an outstanding program in that field of study. Be sure to visit campuses. This is a great way to see the facilities for yourself and to interact with the student body. Making the most out of your college experience is about finding a balance. Learning to balance your academmics, extra-curricular activities, social life, and job is a skill you will use for the rest of your life. College is the place to develop this skill. Just remember to make goals, plan a budget, and work hard.

Debora

Dear College Seeking Individuals, There many things that I've learned while attending college. First I would like to advice you to make sure that the college you are planning on attending is affordable if not seek a great amount of scholarships. Don't take out any loans...you are better off paying the rest of the money yourself then to have to be in debt. Secondly don't be afraid to be yourself. Its ok to enjoy college, make friends, and to get involved- which I strongly encourage-, but remember to pace yourself and to keep your mind focused on your school work. Don't take more classes than what you need and choose them wisely. Don't worry about how you are going to make it thru four more years of schoolng, but just take each day as it comes and enjoy every minute of every experience you have. Lastly, be creative and explore different fields...you might find out that you're good at more than one thing and develop different interests...follow your heart and don't let anyone stop you from getting the things you desire...

Devin

A child needs to be removed from the town they spent most of their childhood in if they expect to make much progression. For as much progression as the student and his family wishes him to make, they should send him farther away. If the child has no desire to learn or attend college, a few months to a year in another country is good medicine.

Scott

College is over rated

Erika

I would say that the most important thing to know when chosing a college, is knowing what you want to major in. There are many students who don't discover this until the middle of their college experience, but if I could go back and do it all over again knowing what I know now, I would be able to only apply to schools that offered my major. Having to transfer set me back financially and academically. Thankfully, most schools are very accepting of transfer students. Another thing that I feel is really important to decide is what kind of surrounding does the student want to be in. Does he or she want to go somewhere warm and tropical, or somewhere where there will be cold weather and snow? I feel this is important because most of the year that you're in school will be fall and winter so if you don't like cold weather that could be a big deal. Most importantly above all, go somewhere you're comfortable being on your own and a place that has lots of opportunities for making friends.

David

Don't worry about only academics. College can be what you make it. Sometimes the most prestigious school is not the best choice. Also, do what you love to do. Life is short and should not be wasted studying things that will not matter or do not stimulate you. Make friends with people, not library walls. College is the best time of your life.

Kristy

It is extremly important to visit the campus when you are selecting a college. You cannot truly get a sense of the students, academics, or atmosphere unless you have been there. Once you are visiting, make it a point to talk to the professors and students as well as the admission counselors. To make the most of the college experience, students need to get involved. It is outside of the classroom that lifetime friends are made. At the same time, it is important to keep your priorities straight. Don't get so involved that you leave no time for stydying. You are at school to learn. Manage your time so that you get sufficient rest and study time.

Melissa

Do your research and visit more than two schools. Don't just settle for what you think is your dream school before you go and get a feel for it. Also, I recommend saving money by going to a community college for your first two years of college and then finishing off at a university.

James

It is my opinion that a prospective college student should know exactly what carreer path they wish to enter before selecting a college. While this may seem unrealistic in a world of uncertainty, it is vital because it lays the foundation of a wise college decision. Location and culture are certainly things to consider, but it is important that these do not distract students or parents from the actual purpose of college, which is preparation for a carreer.

Christina

My advice for parents and students searching for the right college would be to start looking before or during the junior year of high school. Don't wait until the senior year to begin your search, especially if you are looking for scholarship money. Most scholarships are for high school seniors, and the deadlines are very early in the year. You don't want to miss the deadline dates. Once you graduate from high school the scholarship opportunities decrease dramatically. In short, do not procrasticate; start early.

Cheyanne

There is no exact formula for choosing a college! There may not even be a college that is perfect for you. However, I do believe in finding a place that you call home away from home. Find someplace not only where you will feel comfortable, but also a place you where you will be stretched and grow intellectually and socially. You want to make the best experience of your next four years in college, so make sure you keep your parents in the decision process, they know you best right?! Make sure you visit the school you're most interested and spend some time on campus. Go to a class, spend time cheering at a football game! This is the surest way to really "know" the campus beyond what any flyer can tell you! Most of all, don't be afraid! Every other freshman is going through the exact same thing! Get plugged into a club or organization as soon as you get to school so you can find friends and make a difference right from the start! Remember to pray and look forward to your next four years of achievement in all areas of your life!

Nichole

Take your time, and do your research.

Leticia

In a country whose financial stability is slowly declining, finding a college that you know you will receive the best education for a good price is the most important thing to keep in mind when choosing a college. To the student I suggest they get involved in something they enjoy whether that be a intermeral sport, student government, or the book club. And always remember that we are blessed to have the opportunity to learn, it is a luxury, many people are not so fortunate. So always take advantage of the opportunities you will have to learn something new.

Michelle

To parents and students who are concerned about finding the right college and making the most of their college experience I would say that the most important thing is to find a school that you love. It will take a lot of searching, but once you find it, you know right away. As for the college experience, try as many new things as you feel comfortable with, but at the same time, try to step out of your comfort zone a little bit to meet new people and try these new things. You never know who you might meet! College is a time to make mistakes and learn from them, so go out and have fun!

Stephanie

The advice I would give to the parents or students to find the right college and then to make the most of the college exprience is to first get a tour of the campus and get a feel of what it offers, including the people. This will give a small understanding of how the school is oriented and if their focus is somewhere you/ or child could see them be involved with. Check out all the extra activities, talk to deens of the major you are considering and even talk to a regular student about the college. All fo these will help you get a detailed view of the school inside and out. And once you have been there for a semester, once school starts, you know if that is where you want to be or not.

Sahar

I advise all students and parents to not look into the school's name and tuition alone. The overall college experience and oppurtunities should surpass the cost of the tuition. If a student is going to dedicate 4 or more years at a university, visit the campus first! Talk to students and ask them what they like and dislike about housing, food, the teachers,etc. Diversity is very important as well. A diverse school is one that will exceed a student's experience further. Being exposed to new ideas and backgrounds can teach the importance of community and communication.

Alyssa

i would let students know that getting help from parents in important. Students tend to want to be independent and try to prove that they can do things by themselves; that is fine, but dont forget that there are always people that know more than you do and that can help.

Andrew

After the intitial online research, you need to "check it out". Walk around on the campus, see how it feels; can you see yourself walking here for the next several years? Check out the students; talk to them, join them for lunch and possibly monitor a class. Check out the administration offices and talk with the staff. See how you might fit with the cirriculum, options for your major, and the job-opportunities when you graduate. What size school suits your personality? Pray about it and you'll know. Something will click and you'll know where you belong. There are so many schools that have good programs for your area of study, your interests and your geographical preference. Be sure to do your college-shopping, and then check it out. You'll know. Attend an Orientation or introductory session. You'll meet people who you'll rely on the first several weeks of school, and may become your best friends for life. Colleges, universitys and your parents want you to succeed, so take advatage of the opportunities they offer. It's an exciting opportunity and experience. Check it out, then jump in with both feet!

Sara

Visit the campus before making your choice. It makes a world of difference.

Alex

Make sure that you don't judge a school on it's location. Check into what kind of activities and requirements the school has. Live on campus at least for the first year. Be open to meeting new people that you may have never been in contact with in your hometown. Get involved.

Gregory

For me, personally, the community of the school is very important. without a close community, your experience won't be as fulfilling.

Jeremiah

College is an important place to learn new things about the world. I started college at age 16 and at 18 I left to go enlist in the military. I changed my orders so I could come back to school and continue learning. I've been enlisted for 3 years, and this is now my 6th year of college (several years of study were lost while on duty, so I'm a little behind). I've seen alot, I've learned alot, and at this point I think it's save to say I know alot of things. Palm Beach Atlantic University, the school I attend, is a family oriented school with good values that encourages learning. There are light moments from time to time but that is for the weekend, college is for learning. If you don't like my school find somewhere else that wants to learn everything you can in a way that you'll remember. You never know when you'll get a change to come back and learn what you missed.

Abigail

Find a college that is in your price range. Go to college right out of high school. Become involved around the college campus. Know your options and apply to different schools. Find schools that fit your personality and personal belief system.

Lauren

I'll give some biased advice as a student at Palm Beach Atlantic University. It's a fun school, mainly because it's on the beach, but it is also academically invigorating. I have learned so much and am so proud to graduate soon. As a Christian, this school has helped me grow and mature spiritually, but PBAU also admits students of other religions. We have a popular Catholic club and mass at the Chapel. But there are also a lot of other great schools. A lot of my friends are just as happy as I am, and they attend other schools. So don't freak out about finding the perfect one . . . because there is no such things as perfect. Don't bed over backwards about it; rather, just do your best to find a great school and take it from there.

Mike

By far the most important thing to consider when trying to decide what school to go to is whether or not you feel comfortable when you visit campus. The place that you are meant to be will give you an ease and comfort that is almost hard to explain. When I first came to this school, the admissions office and the other students on campus go out of their way to make you feel comfortable and welcome. This is usually a sign that if they are really nice before you are even a dtudent, they will be very comforting and helpful when you actually enroll. Of course, no college is perfect, but keeping an open mind without compromising on the important things can be extremely helpful.

Harold

The most important thing about choosing which school will be the perfect fit for anyone is deciding beforehand what you would like to get out of college. For those who simply want to receive a college degree, it would be easy to find a school where the curriculum is not going to be challenging and the classes will be easy. For those who would like to see themselves become very successful, which should be each individual, choosing the right college has to do with the history of the school, the foundations on which the school has been established, and the quality of the professors and studies at the school. It will become very important that you do the proper amount of research and do not simply settle for a school that sounds good on paper or from someone else's perspective. Being comfortable with your decision begins with a great start. The right college is out there for each person, if you are willing to do your research. Do not settle for less than the best and find the right fit by finding what is most fulfilling and promises a prospering future.

Christina

Start looking for a college during your junior year of high school. Look at lots of schools. Don't rule out the small colleges and universities. They have a lot to offer. Especially in the way of small class sizes. Don't focus on only the schools with your favorite football team. Think about how far from home you are willing to live. Seriously, how far can do you really want to be from your family? Apply for scholarships early also. Many scholarships are only for high school seniors, some are even more specific, like only age 14! Go figure.