Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Schuylkill Top Questions

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

Ronald

I would tell myself to not be afraid to leave the small town I have stayed in. I did not leave my hometown, but instead have chosen to be a commuter student. I feel that if I were to have left this area, I would be benefitting more from college than I am. I would also have told myself to push myself harder through high school. I had the chance to take more advanced placement courses, but I did not. If I would have taken the time to take these courses, I believe I would have been more prepared for college. It is important to never settle, but I think that I have settled this time. However, I will not let that affect my future.

Sy-eeta

To not be so scared I will adjust well and prefer to live on my own.

Raya

I would tell myself to take science seriously. Do not be afraid of biology or chemistry and get as much experience as I can in that field. Even though, I had often thought I wanted to go to med school- I didn't want to work that hard and choose English as a major instead. Now I am going back to school to pick up the sciences as pre-reqs for my doctorate of Midwifery program. I could have saved myself a lot of time if I wasn't afraid of the hard sciences and had studied them first. Too bad there isn't away to pass that message back to myself. For others the message would be don't be afraid to take what you are afraid of. Jump in and do it!

Paul

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior knowing what I know now about college life and making the transition, the advice that I would give myself is stay focused, it's plenty of time to get to know people. The most important thing is to be true to yourself, do what you can, and if people do not accept you keep going and do what you got to do.

Kelsey

If I could talk to myself as a high school senior after knowing what I know now I would have told myself to try harder in school and to look into financial aid for college. I would have also told myself to retake the SAT's after a long study session, as well as get involved with more school activities. I feel that I could have benefited a bit more if I tried harder in high school and became more involved with school activities. My life may or may not be different from what it is now if I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I guess I will never know. The only thing I can do now is to work hard now that I am in college and let my future children know that education is important in life.

Nia

If I could go back to myself two years ago while I was junior in college I would tel myself to do more research on the colleges you desire to go too. Do Not go based off of word of mouth or a lenghty "about my caampus" paragraph on the schools website . Nothing is a good as grasping everything about a campus before hand so that when you do decide on which college you want to go to, you wont regret your decision. College is suppose to a be a BEAUTIFUL experience and you should love every second and regret little to nothing about it. Always keep that in mind. I would aslo tell myself to take the college process more seriously and give it more thought then anything else junior AND senior year; and last but not least I would tell myself to KEEP MY GRADES ABOVE AVERAGE. Doing that gives you way more opportunity for scholarships, grants and more colleges acceptances.

Maria

I would first begin by telling myself to relax! College is not a piece of cake. It puts a lot of responsibility on one and acing those exams means spending many hours studying (not only the night before the exam, of course). However, I know that senior year is very chaotic specially when it comes down to applying for colleges and writing those essays. And once being a senior myself, I was under stress a lot. I had three colleges in mind, and I didn't know how to narrow it down. I worried about everything. The list ranged from not being accepted and not being able to pay for college to burdening my family and not having enough time to do everything I wanted or needed to do. Yet, aside from responsibility, college also hands us freedom and opportunities. Once in college, you are your own time keeper, and it is up to you to decide how you are going to use your time. So during your breaks in between classes, you might have time to get some work done and even catch up with friends. Also, FAFSA is a great help and there are student loans and scholarships!

Adeola

My college experience was one the most rewarding and enriching experiences I have ever endured. Being a student at Pennsylvania State University has made me a more responsible, intelligent and well-rounded individual. Everything from class lectures to extra-curricular activities has helped shape who am I today and I am very appreciative of all that I have experienced. Because of my college degree, I have been given opportunities that I would have otherwise never been presented. I have been able to participate in several internships and secure a full-time job that I love. Classroom lectures and discussions prepared me for and have given me the resources necessary to go into the workforce with confidence. Gaining insight into the corporate world before actually becoming part of it made me feel more comfortable when it came time to look for post-grad employment opportunities. I will be forever grateful for each moment spent as a student at Penn State. It was the most difficult times that made me a stronger individual and the great moments that made college life that memorable. I am honored to be a Penn State Alumni and a college graduate.

Tiffany

College is a whole new ball game from high school. Classes get harder, work gets harder but it's a wonderful life experience. Having the opportunity to attend a great school and meet new people is sincerly a pleasure. Don't take it as a joke or look at it as a time to get away from home and be on your own. Just enjoy every second of it as long as you don't get carried away and forget that is your future that you control.

Cody

You (I) should always try your best and that's all anyone can ever ask for. You should always be open to meeting new people and making new rfriendships after high school. Don't get wrapped up in drugs or alcohol, and keep a good head on your shoulders and you should do just fine. Most of all, be self-confident!

Andrew

If i could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, i would tell myself to pay more attention in class. Even though so far im am holding around a 3.5 GPA, there are many skills i could have picked up in high school that I missed. I would convince myself that even though the material that was being presented didn't seem like it would improve or be apart of my everydy life and will most likely forget the information in a few years, the knowledge would prove very useful in college.

Juan

If I were a high school college student, I would say make sure you hang around people who are going where you are going. IF you want to be an executive hang around people whoo want to be executives. IF you want to be a lawyer hang around people who want to be lawyers. Decide what you want to be and build a persona on it. I would also tell them don't get distracted by people, look at them as networking opportunities

Hannah

Be more outgoing and make an effort to meet new people.

Angela

If I could go back in time to my high school year as a senior I would tell myself not to take any time off of school before going to college. It isn't as hard or boring as you might think. There are plenty of people who are willing to help you fill out applications and scholarships. There is nothing more important in life then your education. No matter where you go or what you do in life you can always take your education with you. You don't lose your education when the economy is bad and you lose your job, you can't lose your education if your house burns down, and if anything ever happens to someone close to you in your family and your whole life is turned upside down you will still have your education.

Ciera

Take your future and high school more serious because in the long run it pays off. Learning good study habits and being organized is very crucial to know in college. Getting good grades in high school pays off when you want to get into a good college.

Joseph

I would tell myself: Self "apply for as many scholarships you can so when you get started with classes you can stay focused on the end prize and not worry about your financial situation. Go out and make friends, because almost everyone here is just as new at this and is just as scared or unsure of this "new" path in their life. Have fun, BUT academics come first, this is why you're in school, as in not to necessarily have fun but to further your knowledge and soon be apart of a generation that stands out and continues the legacy of our world. You will miss home, but home i just a phone call away, make that phone call. And most importantly, keep God in ALL of your decisions no matter how small, for He is your Rock, and your Father, look to Him for Guidance for He gives it willingly and eternally! Stay in church and don't wander off of the priviledge and potential the Lord as bestowed upon you, because He could simply take it all away."

Katie

Pick a good school based on what you want. Don't pick a school just because of a certain major because you will most likely change your mind. Definitely don't pick a school based on a sport. Visit the school and make sure you absolutely love it and can see yourself there. Also, consider the price! You may not think about it now, but $20,000 a year compared to $10,000 a year is a huge difference!

Molly

I would have gave myself the ultimate pep talk. I would explain to myself that there is no reason to be scared and that I am worth the time, effort and energy. I would tell myself to take life a little more serious and to hold my head a lot higher than I did.

Kaitlyn

I would say make sure you keep you're priorities in order. Don't pull all nighters for ANYTHING. School first, social life second. Study, study, study and make the most of a great life experience it is all about the balance once you find it you are golden. Transtitioning from highschool to College is a big change but if you stay motivated and productive nothing can stand in the way of you're dreams.

De'Anna

If I could go back in time and give myself advice as a senior in high school, I would tell myself, "Apply at universities, and keep your grades up. Don't slack off because you know that you can pass without trying. You need to go to a good college and make a better living and be successful. Don't just barely get by because its fun. Push yourself and you will go far."

Susan

Susan! It's me, I came back from the future to let you know that you've made it! From all the hard work, to the stressing and preparation for college, you are now the first person in your family to attend college! The only advice I will give you is not to be afraid of the unknown, this way you will not miss any opportunities. Continue to reach out to people that are just waiting for you to make the first move. Penn State Schuylkill is full of people from staffs to faculties that are there for you in every step of the way. You have made the right choice in deciding to step away from the norms of city life for a change. Last warning; do not try the caf??s pizza! Good luck and I'll be there to see you succeed.

Eric

I would have told myself to go to Penn State Schuylkill. I love the enviroment that is up there: small campus, nice professors, and friends that I made will last me a very long time. My original choice would not have worked out the way I wanted it to do.

Joe

That there is nothing to worry about the transition is every easy and will not be a problem

Angela

i would have never did all the sports that i did becuase now i am suffering with lots of pain due to over doing it in high school with qualifing for states for two years and with also being captain of the cheerleading squad. i wish i would have spent more time with school work rather than being very actvie with all my activites.

Jason

I would take full advantage of the opportunity to manipulate my past. I would prepare myself for the amount of partying and camaraderie that takes place in college. I would make sure that I focused more on my schoolwork and hunting for scholarships. Being that I began my first semester undecided I would tell myself to explore biology, mainly because I would eventually declare it as my major anyway. I would warn myself how hard it is to find a job around my campus, and that it?s a good idea to search for one early. Most students at my school don?t have a car so I would insist that I capitalize on the lack of competition. My campus isn?t very lively so the transition was difficult because I come from an urban environment. Given the size it?s also very easy to make friends, so the only the thing about social life I would stress is activities. There aren?t many places to hang out, so it would emphasize the importance of a small nucleus of friends. I don?t have any regrets, however there are a few things I wish I could have don?t differently.

Jeremy

There would be alot of advic I would give myself before going to college. First I would worn myself of all the distractions and differen things that goin to keep me from my work. I would also le myself know the seriousness of college and how serious each semester is. I would prepare myself to have better study habits because the work load is a little more then when your in high school. I would tell myself that I could have fun but it would have to be at the right times when no work is due in my courses. I would tell myself to go to turtoring in every class even if I dont need help in it I should still go to turtoring so I can stay on top of my work. I would also reccommend that I dont party alot because that will make me loose my focus, and then my grades will drop.

Kelly

Throughout my college career, I've attended 3 different schools. If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to be more concerned with my final goal and career. As a high school senior, my main concern was moving away from home. The first college I attended just wasn't the right fit. I didn't look into all of my options and hastily chose a school I thought was right. After transferring to a different university, I found this school to be a better fit. However, in the end, financially this school also wasn't a right fit. Despite being happy at this new school, I decided to move home to save money. I realized I could get an excellent education while saving money living at home. The high school senior version of myself never would have considered staying at home, but after the past two years, I've learned it's what I need to do to get where I want to go.

Sebastian

Study hard.

JOANIE

As an adult, I am able to look back and reflect upon the past. Even though I cannot change my own past, I can influence the lives of those after me. I have two children whom are of college and high school ages. Even as they mature and lead their own lives, I try everyday to give them a tidbit of guidance and always support them in everything they do. In retrospect I wish that someone were there for me when I was there age to give me advice on what the real world would be like and provide encouragement like I do for my children. If I were to talk to myself as a high school senior I would give the same advice to my children now; even if the road is difficult strive for your dreams, keep persistence in your heart and keep an optimistic mind.

Tremaine

i will do a lot of what im doing now take advantage of all the college prep programs that i can.

Erin

The advice that I would give myself is to try to become more outgoing, to not stress so much, and to be more open to different ideas from different people.

Samantha

College is a big step to take because it's the time to focus on what you really want to do with your life. If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would say that first, just take a deep breath and quit stressing because the transition into college is much easier than you think. Second, I would tell myself that over my high school career, I feel well prepared and confident enough to say that I'm ready and willing to take the next step in my life. Third, I'd remind myself that new experiences are always fun and exciting and college is a great place for that, as well as a great way to make new friends throughout the journey. College may be challenging at times, but it's the next step to a better future so it's well worth it in the end.

Samantha

First, I'd tell myself to take a deep breath and know that the transition into college is much easier than it seems. There are plenty of people available on campus to help every step of the way so there's no need to worry about it. Second, I would make sure to remind myself to be confident about my decision. I prepared correctly

cody

I would tell myself to make the the wright choice go to the school that going to make the best student I could be in the field of study I want to do for the rest of my life and what I want to teach other people about my experiences about my school and what they could teach other students that want to further there education and learn what they taught me.

Linda

I am an adult learner and experiencing the difficulty of going to school while having a full time job, home and family. If I could go back to 1980 I would explain to myself how important an education is. Along with that I would make sure I understood what a golden opportunity full time college is and how much better then trying to do classes with a family, job and home to take care of. I would make sure I appreciated the opportunity and not only went to school full time but strived to do my best.

Daniel

If I could go back to my senior year I would tell myself to take AP classes so that I could graduate earlier because I am paying for college myself and it would be easier than to have to work 35+ hours during a school week.

Melissa

Partying isn't everything. I know you've been sheltered, but life before all that has transpired was definitely worth its weight in gold. You should hold on to it. It was responsible, strategized, and carefully put together to create the perfect human being. You were perfect then, and now you just a faceted gem-no longer pure. Every painful experience will help to shape you, but some of those lessons are just as well not learned. Be the leader you know is in there because only she knows what's best for you. Trust your instincts. Believe in the instruments of your trade (your textbooks). Remain honest, don't waste time on those who wouldn't waste time on you, and most of all...accept who you are, even your faults, rebellion only brings you back to square one and you will forever be trapped-stagnant- and never progressing.

Ileana

I would tell myself that picking Penn State Schuylkill was the best decision I could make. Staying focused, determined and self motivated are my personal tips to success. I would tell myself that choosing a college to attend is not easy, but if you go on school tours, and attend all the information sessions, college decisions would probably go by easier. A smooth transition from high school to college is when your parents, friends and family support you. To feel supported is an essential process. If you ever slip or mess up, you will not have to worry because you have people who are and are willing to put you back on track again. I would also recommend to myself to stay not so far away from home if it is your first time living away from your parents. Going to school too far away from home can distract a student. You become home sick and are easier to not focus on your school work, which is the most important part of college. And my last advice to myself would be to make friends, join clubs and organizations and become recognized by staff and faculty personnel.

Jim

Prepare yourself more for what to expect. Dont slack off. School is so much more important than you think when you are in highschool.

Thomas

This age old question is one that many wish they had the opprotunity experience. The single most important advice I would give myself would be that the delaying of current income to obtain a higher education is more than worth the economic difficulties incurred. I would tell myself that dispite the good money being offered for construction work, don't take the job; stay in school. I would aslo advise that the power of the human back fades much sooner than retirement and that the power of a well educated mind lasts for life.

Stephen

When your a senior in high school that is one of the best years of your life. School begins to be easy. Not as much is expected from you except a little project here and there, but most of the time it nothing big. Wen you come to college its like u back in the 9th grade all over again. But this time you are living on your own. You might have so help from mom and dad from time to time, but mom and dad is not always going to be there now so you have to learn how to mature into a youngman/women. Most student begin to get lazy when they reach the 12th grade because not much is expected. In college laziness is not acceptable, this is where u got to bring your "A" game everyday. This help you get ready for the real world because , when you are at your job you can't work hard on day and then don't work at all. College shows you how to be consistant and to me high school did not show me that!

Maryann

Don't go in with any expectations, you will be really hurt when things don't go your way. Also, don't live with any of your best friends, you may find out something that you don;t like about them and end up ruining a friendship. Abide by all rules, getting a permanent mark on your record will haunt you forever. Lastly, don't give up on your dream, ask for help, go to class and work hard.

Kiara

I wpould advice myself to be prepared for anything ans study, study, study because you'll never know what to expect.

Katarina

Take high school more serious and definitely work hard at everything I do. Also join more sports and clubs!

Ryan

I would tell myself as a high school senior that all the parties, women, fun and games don't add to your GPA, it only subtracts from it. Although it might look attractive now to just party with friends, there is no real beneficial factor to it.

Matthew

Don't procrastinate! My work habits from high school transferred to college, my to my chagrin. I would stay up the day before a project was due, feverishly working into the night to both start and finish the essay for English, or the project for Economics. In college, I had to focus hard on starting early and finishing on time. Professors wouldn't give specific dates to have parts of a project done; they simply gave me a due date and let me go. If I had good work habits in high school, this wouldn't have been an issue. Also, cramming for finals until 3 in the morning is not the way to pass! Study in high school, even when you don't need to, and you will excel in college!

James

really there is nothing i would say to my self. My high school did a good job with telling us how college was going to be. Also my high school did a good job on brings alumi to the scool to tal about college.

Indigo

I will tell myself to fill out for more scholarships because tuition is no joke. I will also tell myself to appreciate the hard work that our teachers is giving because it will all be worth it when I get to college.

Monica

I wish this was possible, because I would tell myself to go to college. I waited 4 years after high school to go back to college. During this time I forgot many of the basics for writing, reading critically, and algebra skills. Although I have received an A in most of the courses I've taken, college would have been much easier if I would have went immediately after high school. Consequently, I take the initiative to explain this to any graduating high school students who are unsure about attending college. I genuinely hope they take my advice, and can skip the hardship that comes from waiting.

Julie

I would tell myself that college is a different world completely from high school. You don't get make up exams and professors do not care whether you study or not because it's not hurting them if you have to repeat their class. Also, save alot of money because books, no matter where you get them, aren't cheap. Study hard and do your homework and any extra credit a professor gives to you!