Pepperdine University Top Questions

My college experience thus far has not been measured in my grades, the number of best friends I have or how many parties attended. Instead, it has been based on the different academic areas I have found interest in, the number of 'different' people I have talked to, and the variability in how I have spent my weekends. It has certainly been fulfililng. While it pains me to admit that some of these experiences have come only because of the price I pay, or will eventually have to pay, I do not think this necessarily says anything about the 'value' of my education. I see my experiences thus far as developing me as the driven, relateable, compassionate, respectful,and and intelligent human that I aspire to be. As trivial as some college experiences may seem, It is hard for me to think of any that will not, in some way, positively influence the rest of my life. And I believe, this is true value.

Attending Pepperdine was one of the best decision I have ever made. I have never been more affected by anything in my entire life. Pepperdine is beautiful, prestigious, tight knit, warm, expensive, and strict and I love everything about it. Even the things I thought I would hate, and at times did, I have come to love. Pepperdine has opened my eyes to so many new things from religion to basic business qualities that I will cherish for years to come. Just in my first year of college, Pepperdine became my home and my peers became my family. I was more motivated than ever to participate in school activities and events and the pride I developed for Pepperdine is stronger than ever. I have never once regretted my decision to attend despite expense and will accept with open arms the consequences post-graduation simply because the experience was so beneficial to me. I can honestly say that Pepperdine will be in my heart forever no matter what.

I had to quickly learn how to balance school, social, and personal responsibilities. I learned how to manage a set budget over a long period of time. I had to prioritize the things that I had to and the things that I wanted to do. I learned how to take responsibility for myself, the people I surround myself with, and my actions. Without these experiences over such a short amount of time, I would not be where I am today. Every month that I spent out on my own forced me to grow into a more mature and productive adult. Every decision I make now during college will shape me into someone who can be responsible and productive in society. It has been so important for me to go off to college instead of taking the community college route. I have matured and grown so much more than I would have if I had stayed in my home town for the first two years of college and I truly believe that the adversity and challenges I will and have faced will pay off greatly in the long run.

I have gained so much from my college experience so far. First of all, I have been challenged academically in new ways. I had a pretty easy time of it in high school, but since coming to Pepperdine, I have had to learn study and research skills like never before. I have also made some really great friends, both on my campus and off. I have a great group of people that go to Pepperdine with me, and everyone here is so friendly and open. I have also gotten to meet people from the Malibu and Los Angeles community through service opportunities, which Pepperdine provides. I have also been challenged in my ideas and have learned more about the way other people view the world. I have grown up, moved out, and moved on from being the person I used to be. But I think all of these things are positive, and can't wait to learn more and grow more.

College has created an opportunity for me to establish independence from my parents and life from back home. As cliche as it may sound, college is a growing experience. I have been forced to handle my own predicaments- such as studying, grades, financial aid, and health problems. Although my parents live an hour away, I still am forced to be an adult and create my own schedule, make my own money, and receive the grade I deserve. I've valued the experience of college because I believe I am officially an adult. There are times where I do call my parents and ask for advice, but I ensure that I make the final decision for my future. College is a great opportunity for an individual to gain control of their future and to find and create their own identity to benefit themselves for the future.

I have had possibly the most amazing college experience at Pepperdine University this past year. Not only has Pepperdine helped me define success correctly, but has also helped place me on the correct path to gain it. It has indeed had a huge impact on my life thus far. I have grown both mentally and spiritually. I honestly do not believe I have ever felt more intellectual or closer to God. I have made lifelong friends and held countless memories. Waking up each morning to the breathtaking view of the beach, actually learning valuable information from professors that truly care and are willing to invite you to their homes, it truly is a blessing. I could not imagine going to any other school for my remaining college years. This school has helped me enhance both my intelligence and determination therefore in order to reach my goals and aspirations to become successful.

First of all, do not be afraid to try new things. Go for anything you want. You will not get everything you want, but trying is so much better than regretting you did not even try. Do not hold back! Roommate relationships are very important - cherish your roommate, she will be your support when family is far away. Get involved. Say hi to new people, take chances, push yourself. If you want to make an impact, go for it. Know it will be hard work though. Learn to listen to yourself. Mom and dad have great advice, but you know yourself better than they do. With that said, get involved! If time commitments scare you, relax; you will find time to be a part of the things you want to. That does not mean rush off and join every club that sounds interesting. Prioritize! The college transition is pretty easy with the right community and support from back home. Embrace this experience, there is nothing else like it. Take time to enjoy everyday, and even when classes are overwhelming, remember how lucky you are to be getting such a quality education. Always remember relationships are the most important, not school.

Jamie- Relax! I know how stressed you are right now. You're currently flying from your home in New Jersey, to universities all around the country, auditioning for school's acting departments. Have confidence in yourself. You're more talented than you know and you will realize that when your decision letters fly back in April. When they come back, have faith in your decision. Pepperdine is the right place for you and your Freshman year will transform you in ways you cannot yet imagine. You will learn the meaning of discipline. Long acting rehearsals and intense workshops will mold you into a more versatile performer and give you the tools you need to make it in the real world. Becoming a member of a sorority seems so outlandish for you right now, but trust me, Delta Gamma will play the biggest role in your maturation. You will meet women from all around the country who come together and bond for a greater cause, and not to stereotypically party and haze. You will be nominated as a 2nd semester Freshman for a Position in Delta Gamma which will teach you the importance of organization. Overall, Relax! You are happy now.

First of all I would tell myself to make sure I know what I want. I have already changed my major once and may be changing it again this semester. I would tell myself to do what makes me happy and not major in something that I think would be better overall to have in my life but does not make me happy. Secondly I would tell myself to pick a school that best suits and not a school that just has a nice location. I should really look into all the schools I could be interested and pick the one that best suits my needs. Third I would tell myself to make sure financially I will be able to afford the school after my four year period of attendance. The school I attend is very expensive but I attended it without a second thought. It would be better for me to work out and discover if it is the wisest decision to go to such a pricey school. Lastly I would tell myself, in all honesty, to fill out and apply for as many scholarships as I can to be able to help financially in my school situation.

After my first semester of all- nighters, homesickness and immense stress, there are a few things I wish I had known before I was launched from my high school comfort zone into new territory of college life. Going back in time, there is some advice I would give myself to avoid the horrors of college life. The first thing I would tell myself is to apply to schools that fit my personality and learning style. I know that I am a spiritual person who enjoys learning about religion and learns better in smaller class sizes. I would advise myself to apply to smaller, religiously affiliated schools. This is beneficial because it is extremely important that I am comfortable in the school I choose so that I can to have more success. I would also advise myself to practice good study habits and learn how to manage my time while I am still in high school. Having time to study, work and have fun is important. Managing time reduces stress and decreases the amount of all- nighters. My father always says that college is the best time of your life. My last piece of advice is: enjoy life in college.

I would give four main pieces of advice: 1) College will make or break your faith...be sure that you are solidly founded in who you are as an individual with your values. Be open-minded, but stick to your convictions and be passionate about what you believe to be true. You will be admired for standing up for yourself. 2) Work the summer before college...you'll REALLY need the money during the year and you'll be glad you thought of it ahead of time. 3) If you're moving out of state, pack half of what you think you'll need. If the THOUGHT even enters your head of "Well...DO I really TRULY need this...?" don't bring it. I brought boxes and boxes of my favorite books and clothes I don't usually wear but thought I might need...and I haven't used any of this. 4) Be optimistic! Consider this quote: "I don't care whether my cup is half empty or half full; I'm just happy to have a cup." -J.Farrel. :)

Learn to organize yourself academically and socially. You can do both. Do not procrastinate. Volunteer, join school interest clubs and or sororities because they help you to meet people and some wil become like your family away from home. Live on campus the first year cause it will feel more like home and it's always safer. If possible, request your rommate as is better to share a room with someone you already know. Excersise, since you will be eating midnight snacks while studying. Dont' be a freshman 15 and besides working out gives you a lot of energy and you feel better about yourself. Always go out in groups, it's safer and more fun. Be wise who you tag along with because you will be judged by association. You don't have to feel any peer pressure in college, do what's right even if it is the harder thing to do. Have an open mind but live by your good moral values. Always smile and be helpful to others as you might need their help someday. When feeling down it's ok to call your parents, they'll be happy to listen from you.

There are two things I would like to go back and tell myself as a high school senior. The first would be to choose a college with a student population that are committed to a relationship with God, not just a "Christian College." Second, I would tell myself to take the time to fill out the selection survey for a roommate before the deadline so that I would have a roommate my first year with a value system closer to my own. I was having a hard time facing leaving home and my friends and church and I didn't feel ready to face the inevitability of living away from home. My first year was miserable in a lot of ways because of my roommate's drinking and drug use. It could have been a much better year with a different roommate. I also would be braver about making a change - I didn't want to step on toes, but it wasn't worth it to keep the peace.

To not stress so much about the future because it never benefts you. You have to stay strong right now because you have several challenges awaiting you that you must complete. Times may seem tough now, but everything going to be all right. Your a wise young man who sometimes doubts himself, but always finds a way. You can do anything kid because your awesome. There isn't anything you can't do. Be strong young man!!!

As a high school student, I would advice myself to emerse myself in more roommate situations. Growing up I was much older than my siblings and spent very few nights away from home. I believe this did not allow me an easy transition into an enviroment where I had to share space with a group of girls my age. I had never shared a bathroom or room with anyone close in age. I wish I had allowed myself for away trips with my friends. I did take a trip to Edinburgh with my theater club however I onec again had a room to myself. In college it takes time for girls to form long lasting friendships; fortunately I met a few people I know will always be a part of my life. However due to my slight shyness from not having more interaction with girls my age, I was less willing to join in different activities they planned or different university clubs they decidied to join. I believe I missed out on certain experiences. Also since I worked it was difficult enough to have the time. So my advice would be to learn how to create those bonds with peers.

If I could venture back in time and speak with myself as a high school senior I would be able to calm my worries about taking the step into college life. For starters, I would demolish any fear of not being able to acquire enough money for my college tuition and fees. I would also encourage myself to follow my passion as a career choice rather than what I thought I should be doing. There's no greater sense of accomplishment than to follow your childhood dreams and do what you love. If I'm involved in a career that I love then I never have to work another day in my life. Another area of the highschool to college transfer that I would address with myself would be about all the new people I'll be around and meet. I would remind myself not to be shy or scared of everyone that I don't know because they are equally if not more scared than what I am. I would remind myself that everyone I meet in college is just another thread in my network for my career. I would tell myself to be me.

Dear Esther, You never know what the future holds so try not to fret over your life-long goals or over your vocation. Many students in college change their majors at least two or three times before they actually find the right major to specialize in. Many students are pressured into studying too hard and too long to get into prestigious colleges but I truly believe the right college will find you. It is as if you are destined to go to that specific college. Enjoy your high school life, meet as many friends and accumulate the memories you have with your friends. However, as much as you play hard, work hard because everything you learn will be useful for you in the near future. Always be optimistic and grab every opportunity that comes your way. Nothing will go wrong if you stay strong. Sincerely, Your Future

Hi Kelsey! So you are going to be going to Pepperdine to next year, you don't know it yet because you still can't decide between colleges. I know you are beyond nervous and you don't want to leave home. You don't want your relationship with your parents to change, your afraid you won't make any friends, and besides all that, you are a little worried about the classes too. Well, guess what! You are going to be fine. I know it's hard to believe me because that is what everyone else has been telling you, but hey, I'm your future self, I have been there- done that. It's gonna be scary, but you will find that Pepperdine is the perfect school for you, and you will find your perfect niche and be happier than you have ever been before. Your relationship with mom will change, but not in a 'you never talk to her again' way. Your relationship will mature and as long as you make the effort you can still keep that close relationship. It's going to be the best four years of your life, suprisingly, just like they said.

If I could back in time with the knowledge I have gained thus far, I would tell myself to continue to pursue my hardworking nature in all I do and also start what I finish. College is a test of how much you handle and time mangagement is a vital skill. I would tell myself that I need to pick the activities and really sort my time according to the things most important. I have figured out that it is important to pursue specific activities in my possible career field. As much enticing and joining clubs, sororities, and events seem in college, I need to ask myself "what will this do for me in the long run?" Sure, it's great to join a club but I needs to be of relevance to my career path. For example, in my case "dentistry", "pre-med", "biology" are all reasons that I can assert as positive means to join a club. I would tell myself, when I do devout my time to a given club, I need to be proactive in my role in that club and offer the best of my time by seeking a leadership position.

As a first year college student, I have already learned a great deal of information that would have been beneficial for me to know as a high school senior. First, I would greatly emphasize the importance of being as outgoing as possible at the start of school. It is easy to understand how in a crowd of many unfamiliar faces, most new students will be prone to shying away due to a sense of discomfort or unfamiliarity. Nevertheless, in order to establish the best possible foundation in your new home of the next four years, it helps if you start making new friends fast! Secondly, I would inform myself that it is entirely logical to go into college as an undeclared major. During my senior year of high school I struggled to end the long search for a major before college. However, I did not realize that many students end up changing their majors soon after entering college. Therefore, it is entirely acceptable to declare oneself undeclared on this aspect in order to discover ones true passions and gain a clear sense of what path best suits ones interests.

Have fun but don't lose track of finding your own identity and vocation. Do not be clouded by your friends life objectives because when college is over its about who you are and what you will contribute to society.

Dont choose a school because of its popularity level or name, choose a school that is compatible with your study habits and personality.

To be focused and really do reseach or what you would want to do with life so no time is wasted in trying to accomplish my goals. Work very deligently, and do everything with excellence. Do things with honesty and integrity. Balance social life with school and create adequate amount of time for studying.

If I were able to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I don't think that I would give myself advice on college life or transitioning. I would definitely tell my senior self how wonderful and amazing life in college is, and can be if one chooses to make it that way, but I don't feel that warning myself against things would be a positive choice. My roommate was more terrible than I could have imagined, but I learned so much about myself through that difficult experience. I wouldn't have deterred myself from such a learning experience. I would have told myself that being with all new people takes some adjusting to. I suppose I would reiterate the values I choose to live by, in that one should take advantage of every moment, and never take it for granted. You only live once, and the only way to truly live is in the present, enjoying every little moment for what it is, regardless of good or bad. No matter what, at the end of the day, "la vita e' bella," or "life is beautiful." Always.

"Don't be afraid to be yourself and try new things". Looking over the past two years of college, I am sad to say that I have never stepped out of my comfort zone. It is important to work hard in school and receive good grades, but I have always been good and done the right thing. However, college is also about trying new things and have fun. College goes by so fast, that before you know it your graduating. I wish I could have told myself to enjoy everyday and not worry too much about the future. Time goes by so quickly and it is important to make the most of each day.

think about how much debt you're going to be in. remember you're a happy person and you'll find contentment wherever you are.

I would tell myself to relax. That making new friends is a lot more fun, and easier than I would have thought. That drinking is not necessary in college, and that grades from classes in high school were not worth stressing over. That life goes on, and get's even better, just stick it though.

I would have worked harder to have more options as far as the schools i chose from.

BE OPENED MINDED! I would have never thought in a million years that I would b a student at Pepperdine, however, Pepperdine has been the greatest thing I have ever done. Also, tough out the first semester. It's hard to come to a new school and being away from home, but that is the time hwere you grow from your "highschool phase" to "college student phase." It is also important to major in somethingt hat you love, because 1. your grades will improve, and 2. you will be happy .Lastly, college is a growing expirience, where you will meet and find new things that might take you into a great new direction, so embrace it and enjoy the ride!

First you need to make an outline of what you want in and from a college/university. What do you want to study? What can you afford? Do you care about the climate or geography? Do you want to attend a school that is academically rigorous? Do you want to attend one that is affiliated with a certain religion or denomination? How big of a school do you want to attend? Do you care about the guy girl ratio? Make a list with all of these answers and check to see which schools match up the closest. Check your information against other sources because there are some schools that are excluded from lists for other reasons than academics. Do the research and make a comprehensive list. Find the top 10-15 that appeal to you and research into those schools in more detail. When you get your list down to 5-10 go on campus visits and get as good of a feel of the school as you can get during your time there. Start studying for SAT 1 and 2 tests way in advance of the summer before your senior year.

Make sure that you're able to visit the campus of your choice before attending. If you can, make some time to maybe hang out with a student of your ethnicity on that campus to get their perspective of campus life. Plan accordingly and make sure that you have money saved up for unexpected expenses. Also, find a school that has more than one major of your interest because usually students will change their majors at least once.

Visit the colleges before. Try going to a place where you think you can fit in with the people. You won't study as hard with a sad mentality.

Find a place where you feel comfortable, but challenged at the same time.

I would advise students and parents to visit as many college campuses as possible, because you will know that it is the right place if you feel at home there.

Figure out what part of the country you want to be in and what kind of community you are looking for and make sure you know everything about the university when you make your decision, including class size, financial aid, student life, religious affiliation, study abroad programs, community service, athletics, school spirit, professor participation, etc. Finding an upperclassman on facebook and asking them about their experiences is far better than what you will find on any website or book, because they will typically give you a true, honest answer. But most importantly, figure out what you want from a college and go from there, and you will end up at the best place for you.

College plays a huge role in the paths our lives take and the people we become. So, my first peice of advice: don't take it lightly. Don't assume that most schools are the same. Think about where you want to spend the next four years, and what kind of people you want to be around. Think about the quality of education and what each school can offer you. Size matters. A school with10,000 people will provide a completely different experience than one with 2,000. Make pros and cons lists. Visit the schools if you can and try to imagine yourself as a part of that community. Once you get there, cherish everything. College only happens once, and it really is the best four years of your life. Prioritize. There is more to college than partying and being free. Give to others. Make your life fulfilling and rewarding. Invest. Invest in your studies, invest in OTHERS. The relationships you build in college can and will change your life. You may not know who you are now, but you will find out in college. So make the person you become a person that you're proud of.

Meet with faculty members and try to spend a few days on the campus to get a feeling for whta your future home and classmates will be like. Also, sit in on classes that interest you, both large and small ones.

If possible narrow your choices down to a half a dozen from your original list. Try to visit these campus's and talk with some of the students that are attending and attend some classes and talk with the Professors if possible. Go back to your short list and construct a new pro's and con's list of those campus's that you got to visit and then take some personal soul searching time to really consider why or why not you wouldn't want to attend that particular campus. Discuss these pros and cons with your family that will be helping your through your college career. Finally make sure that the decision you make is honest for yourself, not one out of spite or obligation. Remember you are the one attending the college, not your family member, but also remember who is supporting you through this! Good luck and have fun!

If I was asked to offer advice to parents and/or students about college, I would say first it is very important for you to first evaluate exactly what you want in a college. It is very important that once you have a few colleges in mind, you then research and see which of those sit closely with you're lifestyle and upbringing. The university I attend was the perfect choice for me because it coincides with my religious background, my success in small (25ppl & less) class setting, and the great relationships between staff and professors. Once you have taken into consideration the aspects you care about most, then it is important to make the most of the college experience once you're at your univerisity of choice. Don't be shy or afraid to make friends; however this can be easier for some more than others. In between classesand studying, go to as many campus activities and social events as possible. This will help get you accustom to the college lifestyle, surrounding off-campus community, and whatever unspoken "social norms" there may be at your college or university. Most Important of all, is to remember to have fun!

the only advice i would really give to parents and or students in the choosing of the right school is to follow your heart, and it will lead you to the right place. :)

More than the right major or academic standing of a college, I believe the key to finding the right college is about determining the community that exists on campus. Besides actually attending the college (through summer programs or college visits), another way to determine the community setting of a university is to assess the surroundings. This includes the actual city and state of the college, whether it is rural, suburban, or urban, as well as the collective people that attend the university. Another way to determine the type of people who attend the college is to find out what its values are, demonstrated through its mottos, clubs, and extracurricular activities. The last piece of the puzzle to determine whether a college is right for you is to really evaluate yourself and what values you want to promote in your life. Being open to the new experiences of college while not placing all your expectations in one basket will allow you to get the most out of your college experience no matter where you end up attening. Give everything a chance without forfeiting your moral core, and you will find your home.

Before you choose, think about what you want your life to be like in 4 years when graduating and what it could be like if you chose a given college. Pick the closest match. This is not something you want to regret. Be active in touring the school and asking counselors and students there how hey feel. Loom at the student body. Your academic success will be dependent upon your happiness at he school.

Go see the college for yourself. Spend time there, See if you fit in with the type of students that go there. Find out if you can afford it. Look into what activities and extracurriculars are offered, and sit in on a class or 2.

Finding the right college should be much more than simply settling for whichever school accepts you first. The college you attend defines who you are for the rest of your life. Basing a massive decision such as this on where your friends choose to go or how far the college is from your home is limiting and damaging. This is your future; embrace it and take charge. Certainly, applying to many schools is the first step in finding the correct, best fit university for yourself. Think outside of the box. Do some research on a specific college then find out what other colleges are in the area around it, and research them as well. This process should be grueling, and it should take time. Making a half-hazzard decision on your college is like setting yourself up for future unhappiness. You are going to spend four years of your life at this university-- make them the most memorable, unforgettable years you will ever experience.

Many students make the mistake of only looking at schools where everyone is just like them. But the reality is, being open to a change can make all the difference in having a great college experience. Moving to a warm weather climate when you are used to a cold one, or surrounding yourself with more conservative people than you are used to can really help you find yourself, which really is the essence of college. You're going to change in college, it's a fact, so finding a school to match you as a high school senior doesn't make sense. Go to a school that is the epitome of what you want to be. Even if you are incredibly academic, as long as you are personally excelling you don't need to be surrounded by similar stressed-out people so why seek that in an institution? The truth is, the admissions process will keep you out of any school in which you might feel in over your head so when choosing your school, don't lean on how hard you think the work is going to be. My advice: Be bold, don't be afraid of change!

I believe that getting to visit and 'experience' a school before deciding to go it is very important. Sitting in on a class, hanging out with current students and exploring different aspects of the school that are interesting to you are essential in truly finding out of the college is right for you. A school should bring out the best in its students and students should excel in their academic and social careers at their school. When visiting a school, be sure to get a guided tour and ask questions!!! Ask any questions you may have (especially if the guide is a current student) in order to feel as though you have learned as much as you can about the school. Although financial situations can be an issue for some students, don't choose a school based on the cost because you can be giving up priceless learning experiences. At school, try to be involved and always have an open mind and you will go far.

The years that one spends in college are some of the most important and irreplaceable years of one's life. My advice to students: be selfish! Think about YOUR needs. I understand that what I'm saying can be a hard thing to accomplish, but it's necessary. I know there may be money issues, the opinions of your parents, where your best friend or even a boy/girlfriend is attending, but something can change or be done about each and every one of those circumstances. Financial aid is out there, you just have to work to find it. When it comes to a friendship or a relationship, if it's meant to be, it will work out. I promise. Your happiness depends on you thinking about yourself, your needs, your desires, and your dreams. Parents: let your child fly. Many students listen to what you say, they observe your opinions. You may not notice but, you have immense amounts of power over where they choose to go. Help them by listening to them and assisting in finding solutions to their problems and worries. Don't hold your child back, rather be their support system on their road to success.

Definitely go on a campus tour, and if you can, spend a night at the school with students. Apply to a myriad of schools, and make sure you have enough schools in your Safety, Target, and Reach categories. Don't limit your kids to a certain area, as many schools all over have wonderful programs. Your kids are adults now, not children; they will be on their own whether it's 20 miles away or 2000 miles away, so don't limit their college experience by giving them geographic boundaries. Also, for students: make sure you pick a major that you know you will like and that you truly enjoy, otherwise college (and life!) will be a drag!

I would say that it is most important for the student to look at all the pros and cons of any given university or college and weigh them to make the decisions about their possible choices. Location is very important and it is also important to be in an area where you know you will be able to get off campus and enjoy something else from time to time, parents dont restrict your children's choices because the school is to far from home, they will enjoy their college experience much more, learn more, and be happier and more willing to come visit if their college experience is the best it can possibly be and that hinges on them being able to choose their school no matter where it might be.

I strongly suggest to parents and students that visiting campuses prior to attending is a crucial step when planning to attend university for 4 years. Furthermore, do not merely take the organized campus tours but walk freely around campus, talk to students, and faculty & staff. This will definitely help you ascertain how the campus works as a community, of which you might be a part. Making the most out of college adds to your overall satisfaction of going to school. Making friends and building relationships that will last a lifetime is second only to learning from your courses whilst at college. This network you make in school is more important, in most cases, than your coursework as it will shape where you can go with your career. Furthermore, I suggest looking at smaller schools because like Pepperdine, you will have one-on-one interaction with Professors and even go to their houses for dinner which provides valuable time to question and get to know your instructor. I know friends who went to big name schools elsewhere who never met their professors in a class! In the end, your gut feeling will tell you which school is best. Go for it!