Roanoke College Top Questions

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

ryan

If I had the ability to go back in time and give myself a piece of advice, it would be too start practicining being nocturnal. The hours That I have seen while doing homework are those hours in the night that didn't exist to me in high school. During my first semester, it was a big adjustment to have to stay up late at night to finish a paper, and then be up at 8 a.m. for a class. So if I could warn myself, it would pertain to the critical homework hours that used to be sleeping hours.

Kari

I would first give myself a slap across the face....I would say the I was wasting time, wasting a really smart brain, needed to try harder, was lazy... NOW I am almost a Junior in college (YES...at 30yrs old) and have a 3.98 GPA. I am happy I waited to go back to college...it made a huge difference in my learning. I love to learn now, and push myself to get A's on EVERYTHING. I had a 4.0 GPA just untill last quarter and I got a B on a final exam....O'well, I tried my hardest! I GUESS NEXT TIME I NEED TO TRY MORE THAN MY HARDEST!!!. I love school and cant wait to be AN ONCOLIGIST/CANCER DOCTOR!! :)

Courtney

If I could talk to my High School self I would tell her to make all moments last. Homework and school is important, but it's not the assignments that you remember doing it's what you did with your time and how you made the most of it with people who bring out the best in you. Try not to think about how much a college costs to attend, if money was not an object where would you go to school? There are a lot of new wonderful things and people that are about to enter your life , make the most of it. I will leave you with one of my favorite quotes: "You have four years to be irresponsible here . Relax . Work is for people with jobs . You'll never remember class time, but you'll remember time you wasted hanging out with your friends . So, stay out late . Go out on a Tuesday with your friends when you have a paper due Wednesday. Spend money you don't have. Drink 'til sunrise . The work never ends, but college does."

Heather

I would tell myself "don't worry about it"! "When you arrive it will be hectic and you might be a little scared but you have to remember that everyone there for move in day and orientation care that this HUGE transition in your life will be a bit easier." I would say "stay confident". There will be many new faces and you will have to get to know the campus but don't make it stressful, give yourself room to explore and get to know people because they might be the ones who stay your friends through college. If you payed attention in high school then classes won't be that hard. If you don't get it right in the first few weeks don't beat yourself up about it but talk to your professors and work it out, this is college. Since this is college leave the drama for high school, you are now an adult, a huge responsibility so don't take it lightly. While you’re in high school hone the ability to balance classes, work and social life that skill makes a difference. Your life might be changing but don’t forget your roots.

Dayla

If I were able to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself not to worry so much about getting into college. I was really worried senior year of high school that I would not be able to get into a good school and that I would end up studying at a community college. Looking back on it all I think maybe my worrying inhibited some of my college selection process. I was applying to so many schools and for so many scholarships and never hearing great news. The schools either were not a good fit for me or they just were too expensive. No matter how many scholarships I applied to, I was never selected. I felt unworthy, dumb, and ill-equipped for college. But once I got here I knew I was where I was supposed to be. I fit right in and got moving on classes and getting an on campus job. Roanoke College makes me feel like I am at home and that I am in control of my life. I do not worry as much anymore, I love it here and never want to leave.

Tanya

College is not an option, it is a must. Do your best in math and science so it will not come back to haunt you later. You must take your SATs to prevent having to waste time going to a community college first. Education should be the first priority in life. Don’t be scared about paying for college even if you have to take out loans, because it is better to go in debt for an education instead of going into debt for a car, home, clothes, etc.

umair

I would definitely tell myself to study hard and know what it is that you are doing. College is not a place for games nor a place to hang out, but a place to get a dignified education to make something out of your life. I was not studious in high school one bit, therefore, i would tell myself to sit down in a quiet place and open the books and read. I would also encourage myself to take difficult courses such as Honors or AP courses to better prepare myself for what college holds for me in the future.

Antuane

If I met myself back in senior year of high school I would give myself the following advice: "From here on out you will be responsible for your own future and there is nothing that can stand in your way if you have enough drive and determination! There is nothing stronger than the human will, always remember that Antuane! All you need to do is visualize what you want and work towards getting there. You have still a long road ahead but will have many achievments and moments to enjoy and cherish as you embark on the journey of college and this whole new life ahead of you! It will require effort but it will all be worth it in the end. You WILL succeed. I believe in you." From there I would end it with a smile and a wink of reassurance as I dissapear into the midst.

Arielle

Without an education, you cannot have a future in America. Despite the economic recession you should take the risk and continue with your aspirations for high education. To make the transition from high school to college, the most important thing is to develop a support network. When teenagers think about college, they automatically assume freedom to make their life and make their own choices. However, when you have greater freedoms there are higher risks, consequences. What makes us wise is the ability to see the two roads and choose the right road that will be least harmful. Having a support system, it does need to be family, but friends and teachers that want you to be successful. To have people in your life that will be honest with you and tell you that the choices that you are making are causing you to travel down the wrong path. No man is an island, and having a community at college will help you become the person you were meant to be. It seems childish, but it most mature and adult people who can ask for help or guidance.

Brittany

The college experience is just like everything else in life, it is what you make of it. There is no guarantee that if you do certain things or act a certain way you will have the "traditional college experience." Make decisions based on your personality and what you want, not on what is "normal" or could be good if you were a different person. College should be the time you use to develop yourself as an adult not another version of high school. Do not try to fit the mold because you think you should.

Joshua

I am returning to school after working in sales for two years because I initially failed out of college. Saying that I wouldn't give myself advice is tempting because I believe the experience has created an appreciation for education that I would never have possessed if I were a traditional student; however, my first two years of failed college experience created a substantial school loan debt. Therefore I would, if given the opportunity to give high school me advice, justify going to Community College before continuing with my education. This would have given me an inexpensive and realistic picture of the discipline required to attend classes, something I did not possess at college my first time, and would probably have resulted in the same, failed outcome. I fully believe that I was meant to enter the work force before realizing my place in the world of higher education.

Brittany

Even though I had an amazing college experience and would love to live it over again, there are still some aspects that I would change if I had the opportunity. If I could go back and give myself advice about college when I was a senior in high school, there are two ways that I would have carried myself differently. The first action that I would change is to be more involved on campus from early on. I was very involved on campus but not until my junior year, and I would tell myself to get as involved as possible as early as possible. This is a very vital part of college that I wish I had taken part in earlier. The second action that I would tell myself would be to always plan a year ahead so that you can achieve your goals. It is critical while in college to plan ahead to ensure that you accomplish all requirements, but it is also important to plan ahead for the years after college. If traveling back in time were an option, these two actions are the ones that I would stress to myself before entering into college life.

Maria

College life is a lot different than you imagined it. You think you’re ready for it, you’re mature enough for it, and when your parents move you in, you can’t wait to rush them out. Just remember a few little things. For one, this is all new to everyone. It’s everyone’s first year and they’re just as anxious and excited as you are so don’t be afraid to get out there and meet people, being shy won’t get you anywhere. Remember not to sweat the little things and don’t forget to breathe. The wind might knock you down but you need to get right back up and remember that the storm always passes and to keep focused on what is most important: you and your education. It’s said that college is the best 4 years of your life. But that’s it, only 4 years, so don’t dwell on little things that won’t matter when it’s over and get out there and make the best of it.

leslie

Do not listen to your parents!!!! You DO need a college education to get a good job! And besides that, college opens your eyes to the world and to the truth. I know it seems like no one is there to help you but you have the tools to help yourself and that is all you need. Dont be affraid. Your family is wrong for insisting that being educated means forgetting where you come from. If you really want to make a difference in this world, you cannot postpone your education. Working three jobs just so you can move out and have a place of your own is silly. Get an education and then you can decide where and how you want to live. The time is now. It is so much harder to focus on school when you have other priorities that dictate your life such as a family and work. Listen to your heart and shoot for the stars.

Cathy

Roanoke College did provide me with an education that I find myself using on a regular basis in everyday life. I majored in Criminal Justice and I constantly see injustice being committed all around me. The difference is, that thanks to Roanoke College, I know when an injustice is being committed versus someone that has absolutely no idea about the law and how it works.

William

Ive gained the opportunity to prove my abilities inside and outside of the classroom every day as an adult, as well as the oportunity to learn and grow to become a hard working citizen

Katrina

My college experience has been amazing so far. I've enjoyed all of my classes and the teachers are always extremely helpful. The entire Roanoke College staff is very hard working and have provided me with a great deal of guidence and advice. My classmates are great people and I've acquired many new friends. As part of the Honor's Program, I was required to attend certain events and to complete some community service. I've enjoyed going to plays and concerts, further broadening my horizons and love for the arts. Also, the community service has allowed me to get involved with the local community and have fun while doing so. Attending Roanoke College has not only given me a new outlook on things, but it has also encouraged me to put myself out there a little more and explore what life has to bring me.

Brandon

College is a rewarding and eventful experience. So far it has taught me a lot. Not only am I recieving a great education, I am also having a great time doing it. The people here at Roanoke College are great, including faculty and staff that actually care about me as a person. I think so far, the most important thing that I've learned is how to deal with many types of people. At Roanoke College, there are many types of people that attend the school, making it so diverse. I often meet many new people and learn so much from them because of their different backgrounds. After learning their culture annd backgrounds, I often create friendships that last a lifetime. In doing this, I create a whole new outlook on life and have a better appreciation for different things. I can definately see myself attending Roanoke College for my entire college career.

Jennifer

I really have experienced a lot of new life adventures and plan on taking it to a higher level of education in my life.

Carol

Roanoke College was a great experience. I enjoyed the four years I spent there earning my Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. My education was invaluable in that it increased my intellectual ability trememdously. Being a liberal arts school, I was introduced to a variety of academic subjects. There was guidance when I needed it, yet a tremendous amount of freedom to explore the areas I was most interested in studying. I was encouraged to research new topics and find information I wanted to learn. Having attended a college that none of my high school acquaintances had chosen, I learned to meet new people and expand my social circle. It helped me to fulfill my educational requirements so that I can proceed with my plans to further my career objectives with higher degrees. I am currently attending school to earn my masters degree. If I am successful, I may continue on further.

randi

Besides the common ideas that having a college education helps you prepare for the real world and assist you in getting a better job, college has also changed who i am as a person. It's taught be how to be self-managing and self-motivated. Unlike high school, all of my effort has been for myself and my own understanding, not just for a letter grade. I no longer attend school for the social aspect, but becuase I enjoy the atmosphere of all of the eager students. I am eager for my second semester and also disappointed that the first semester is already over.

Courtney

As an International Relations and Spanish double major, I intend on getting the full experience. I have very big aspirations, and I plan on graduating with much more than when I came here. My college experience thus far has been spectacular. I have met friends who I couldn't see myself without, and I have learned very important pieces of information that I will never forget. My most valuable course in my first semester has been my course entitled Women & the Vote. My professor was very passionate, and while learning the history of the women before me, She also taught me a lot about being a new college student. She helped to shape our writing skills into less "high school thinking," as she called it, and brought us into "sophisticated thinking." It has been an eye-opening experience to be in that class. I'm the first to attend college in my family even though I have 3 older siblings, and my family has been so supportive. It feels really good to know that there are so many people that support me emotionally, even if they can't financially. Because of that, I became tremendously closer to my family.

Courtney

I have gotten a lot out of my college education so far. I have only attended one full year at my college, but I have learned a great deal. I am studying to become a high school history teacher, and had to take education classes in order to fulfill licensure. Some of the education classes taught me about teaching in multicultural classrooms. I think this is the most valuable thing I have learned so far. It is so important to learn how to cater your classroom to your students needs, because that is why you are there; to teach your students. You are responsible for them. During my first year I also had the opportunity to travel abroad to Japan. I feel this has made my college experience even more valuable because not only am I getting an important liberal arts education, I am getting to experience a completely different world and culture by studying abroad.

Katy

Every high school senior experiences some degree of what we all know as "senioritis." As a high school student, "senioritis" and I butted heads frequently. I was more concerned about spending my last year at home with my friends than studying my academics. I was not a bad student, I continued to maintain a 3.4 GPA. However, I did not push myself to the potential I had. Now I look back and realize, I sold myself short. I was content to settle for an academic second rate. I chose to do grade B work, when in reality I was entirely capable of A work. Never settle for second class, mediocrity, or B work. Do not be content to stay lukewarm in your academic career. Instead, press on toward the goal of a better future. After all, the future is all we have to look forward to. Push yourself to new heights and discover the potential you hold! Have faith in yourself. Set great expectations and you will make sure you rise to meet them.

Greg

When you transition from high school to college it can be a traumatic or wonderful experience. It is tough to fit in the first couple of days becuase you do not know anyone and everyone comes from diffrent backgrounds. But d not let this discourage you because you will find your group of friends sooner then later. Another great piece of advice is to get involed early and find things your pasionate about. Getting involved will help keep you busy and keep home off your mind. Yes it is ok to go to parties but dont get carried away, the parties will always be there. Drinkng to get wasted and get wasted fast never ends well. Be a social drinker and have fun. College is time in your life to experiment, learn, love, and find yourself. Do not waste it.

Mallorie

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior I would stress the importance of time management and learning good study skills. Throughout school I was never good at studying because I got good grades without doing it. I have learned in college that studying is something everyone needs to do and to do effectively. I would encourage my high school self to start implimenting study skills and spending more time focusing on school projects to help prepare for life in college. I would also suggest to myself to start using a planner to keep track of important papers, readings for class and other homework. In college the way you spend your time and how much work you put in outside the classroom is the most important element to a successful college experience.

Hayleigh

Once again, I would simply tell myself that high school is easy. People are willing to bend over backwards to help you graduate. College is about your level of commitment to achieve your dreams. Learn to set a schedule. A planner is your best friend. An alarm clock is your second best friend. If you don't need a job, you should get one anyway. It will help you manage your time.

Jennifer

If i could go back to my senior year of high school i would tell myself that if my heart is really not in going to school dont do it. college takes alot more than just knowledge, it takes heart and determination. i would tell myself to never give up no matter how hard it gets because school is my escape, it is my only chance to make a better life or myself, one my mom prays for me to acheive.

Renee

It is absolutely necessary to attend the campus you are considering. If that is not feasible, find a way to contact a student on campus who has similar interests or is from you area. Don't just look at paying for college itself, but also books, transportation, weekend expenses, and such. This isn't something you decide light-heartedly. Don't go into this thinking "I f this school doesn't work I can always transfer." Transferring isn't always easy and it interrupts your college experience.

Lindsay

Always visit the schools you're thinking of and don't ignore the feeling you get when you're there.

Aaron

There is no set way or method to finding the right college. You can have gut feelings and visit, but until you have been for at least a semester, you really cannot accurately gauge your feelings towards an institution. Knowing basic things such as what size school, what amount of money you're willing to pay, and what kind of people you're looking to be around are helpful. As far as making the most of a college experience, that is totally in the hands of the student. At all schools there is partying. Some choose to kill their livers and lungs while others enrich their brains. Some do both. Even the most poorly rated schools have something to offer, you just need to know where to look to find it. Roanoke College's extremely poor advising has led me to be more independent in my choice making and decisions. It has also helped me to be more decisive. If I could describe college in one wod, it would be "variable." Some cliches such as "adventure" and "journey" do not fit. It's a very variable experience and its path is totally in your own hands.

Brent

Don't make a decision solely based on financial offerings. Go with the school that is the best fit for you, not the one that offers the most money!

Erin

I would suggest parents and students to do their research! Make sure you know what you are looking for in a school and that it has the major, activities, and opportunities you are interested in. When you narrow down your choices, be sure to visit the campus to really get a feel of what the college or university is like. You want to make sure you know what the school, faculty, and students are like and if it will be the right fit for you. If I didn't visit the college I am at right now when I was doing my college search, I would definitely be at the wrong school and I would have had to go through the hassle of transferring. You want to make sure you're happy because college is supposed to be the best years of your life!

Heather

Do whats best for you and get involved

Katelyn

Look at more than one place. Sit in on classes, talk with professors and financial aid. Make sure you apply for all the scholarships you're eligable for. Don't become set on one school; be flexible, especially if you aren't 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} sure what your major will be. Choose a school that has more than one major you like, just incase you're like me and decide to switch once you find it the department isn't what you thought it would be. Make sure any classes listed in the catalog that you want to take are being offered and that the professor hasn't retired or something.

francena

visit the school and if it feels like home you will know

Michelle

going to the best school isn't the goal. it's finding a place that really fits with the indiviudal's needs.

Jessica

PIck a college where you feel comfortable and welcome. This is going to be home for about 4 years so you want to be in a place that feels that way. Decide what is important for you and what you want to get out of the school, then pick the school that will be able to deliver that for you.

Matthew

Make sure you are picking a school that has a high rate of placing graduates in jobs. Try to find a school that will help you toward your career goal, many colleges let you major in whatever you wish and then there is no hope for employment afterward with your degree. Be careful!

John

Small schools have great communities, and let you make a lot of lifelong friends. Go somewhere warm and live it up!

Tara

Visit, visit, visit! You won't know how the campus and the school will really feel until you go see it for yourself. But try to avoid the official tours if possible, they tend to sugar coat things. Talk to the professors and current students, look at reviews online, and strongly consider cost. It doesn't seem that important now, but once you have graduated it will be VERY important. Also check out professor websites and see what they're publishing. Make sure they are contributing to their field - that way they're certain to contribute to your education!

Maggie

Visit as many schools as possible.

Chastity

The biggest step in determining where you will fit in best, after you find a school in a region you want to study and that offers subjects you want to major in, is visiting the school. Attend an open house, get a feel for the current students on campus and the faculty. Interpersonal style is an important element of feeling comfortable in your environment. Feeling comfortable where you are going to attend college for 2 to 4 years is important in determining how much you take away from your school and the education/experiences provided there. I find it hard to imagine that one could take a positive stance on his or her academics in the face of negative interactions with peers and professors.

Jennifer

Go take a tour and if it feels right, make that choice

Catherine

Pick the one that's right for YOU, not your friends.

Franklin

I learned a lot from my college experiences. Out of everything I learned, one of the most important things I figured out was college is what you make of it. It does not matter where you end up but more importantly it is the journey you make for yourself. In order for you to truly be happy at your college, it is important that you have an active roll on campus. I did not go to my first choice school or even my second choice but, I am glad I came to my college because it forced me to want more. By demanding more from my college, I was able to have a greater impact there. When choosing a college, it is imporant to reflect on what is important to you and your goals in life. This might be a hard objective to deturmine so early in your life. Try to find the answers to those questions and then choose a school that can help you get where you want to be. Please remember that college is not the be all and end all and there are still many more opportunities to accomplish your dreams.

Erica

Make sure to visit the campus before choosing and go into it with an open mind. Make sure you are open to new things and meeting new people. Don't let money be the difference of where you go to school (if you can).

Alyssa

Students should be able to step onto a college campus and know that it is where they belong. It is very important for students to get involved in extracurricular activities, from on-campus organizations to off-campus activities or community service. That is the best way to build a strong peer group. Even if a school does not offer financial aid, monetary issues should never hinder a student's opportunity to attend an institution; there are thousands of dollars of scholarship money that is unclaimed every year. It is acceptable to enter an institution without knowing what career path to take, because college is a time to find your niche.

Marquisha

Make sure that you have a second, third, fourth, etc. choice of college. You do not want to depend on that one college and when the time comes when you do not get accepted to that college, then you are out of luck. Make sure you have everything in order and everything is "peachy" (for the lack of a better word). Make sure the student takes the SATs early, that way if they don't like their score, they can have enough time to retake the test. File for financial aid; even if you think you are not going to get any, do it any way. Make sure you do file late December early January; the longer you wait the less money you may possibly get. When leaving for college, make sure you have a list of things to bring. Check the school's website; sometimes they have a list of items you may need to bring, to help you out. Also, when deciding what college to go to, the school website is handy. You can find out about the different majors and minors.

Sophia

Remember that this is a huge commitment. Find the college that is perfect for you and dont settle for anything less. If money is an issue, stick to colleges that you can afford (unless they are truly worth the money). Dont make your decision just based on a visit, do a lot of research if you are interested in a school.