Rowan University Top Questions

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

Dana

Listen to others' advice and visit alot of the schools beforehand, but ultimately go with the school that's the best for you.

Shannon

Only having one more year of college, I have learned alot, and seen alot, but I also have things that I would have changed or done differently. First off, in choosing a college, it is very important to see the campuses. I never had to live in a dorm or apartment because of the fact that I live so close, but if you have to live in one of those, it is important to check them out first. Another thing I definitely would have done, was once I figured out that I wanted to do Marketing, I did not look for a school with more minors, which would have been very helpful, because I missed out. Also, I think it is so important to be more involved and join more clubs, because that's something I definitely did not do, and I wish that I had.

Nicole

Get online and check out websites and request information for anything that interests you. Figure out how much debt you can handle and factor that into the school you choose. Visit as many campuses as you want. Most important being young this is your opportunity to really branch out. Don't undermine yourself and your experience by staying in state, this is you chance to go big and do something new. Were you go to school is often were you wind up getting a job and buying a home. Really look into the community surrounding the school you choose. Some schools are in a bad neighborhood and the quality of the school doesn't make up for the fact that your in a bad area. Make your choice wisely, if your not happy in your freshmen year then transfer immediatly but don't wait because you might wind up taking classes that don't transfer. Last but not least theres nothing wrong with spending a year at community college until you realize the things that are most important to you.

Denise

Go to the schools you're thinking of. Take a tour to see what they look like in real life as opposed to a glamorous website. Find out where the students who go there live; there is a big difference between commuter schools and tight-knit communities hidden away in the country. If you can, try to talk to alumni and current students; take their experiences and compare them to what you think you want out of college. Most importantly, it should be the student's decision where to attend. If you let your parents tell you where to go and what to study, you will be miserable. Your first step towards independence is choosing your own path to higher education.

Chris

don't be afraid to try something new. College is a time to grow and break your norms. extend and apply yourself!

Alexander

The advice I would give parents is to not stress their children out with the college the parents think is most appropriate. Each individual deserves their own right to make their own personal decision and college may be one of the biggest decisions in life. Parents should assist their children in the college decision-making process, not control the decision.

Jessica

I would advise parents that the most important thing when choosing a college is to focus on what their child wants and needs. Parents shouldn't pressure their children into attending a school that they prefer. Their child will be attending this school, not them. It is important for the student to select a school that meets their needs and makes them happy. Parents should support their children 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} because that will teach the student how to make important decisions on their own; something they will have to do for the rest of their lives. For students, I would advise them to make the most of their college experience by doing the following: 1. Go to all your classes! Ask questions! Learn as much as you can! Get your money's worth! 2. Volunteer. Experience making a difference! 3. Make friends! You can always learn from your peers! 4. Don't lose sight of your goals! Just because Mom and Dad aren't there to pick up after you doesn't mean you should go wild. Stay grounded! 5. Finally, have fun! Make the most of your time! Remember: college is the best 5 to 7 years of your life!

Anjelica

College is one of the most influential times in one's life, and planning for it may seem like a daunting task. Students should survey many various colleges, taking into consideration how they learn and what institution will aid them the most in their career plans. Visiting a college can make a huge difference; what is included in a brochure may not be indicative of what the college has to offer, among other small details. Personally, when I visited the first college I attended, I immediately fell in love. Based solely on their website, however, I would not have felt the same about its atmosphere. Despite what some may believe, "making the most" of a college experience is vital, especially if a student is paying a great deal to attend. Students should grasp every available opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture of their institution. Attending club, Greek life, or sports meetings is a great way to begin. If one does not find that appealing, however, socializing after class or on the weekends will help alleviate stress from schoolwork and create a social network if peer assistance is ever needed.

Lashana

Affordability and the environment and atmosphere

Concetta

The "college experience" is a myth. You can make the most out of any college that you attend, in most cases. The important thing is that you feel engaged at the campus. I would suggest sitting in on classes at campuses you visit, if the faculty allow you to do so. You have to remember why you're attending college. It's not because your parents tell you to, or that it's expected of you, or because that's what all of your friends are doing. You have to be there because you want to be there, and because you want to learn. You can show up for the parties, but at the end of the day, if you don't want to be there, you're just wasting your time. Find a school that makes you feel comfortable, but that pushes you to be your best at the same time. Surround yourself with people who make you strive to achieve. And if the school you chose doesn't fit, transfer as soon as you can. Who cares if it's ivy league? Do what makes you a better person.

Rachel

Go somewhere that you immediately feel apart of. Look into your major you want to succeed in and see if they have an appopriate course for what you want to do. Get involved as soon as possible and attend every orientation and freshman activity.

Brandon

You must know somebody who has allready went there, go to explore as many colleges as possible and work for the best grades you can while in high school

Jennifer

When selecting the right college, one of the first things to consider would of course be tuition rates. Of course this answer is going to be different for every family, so make sure you invest some serious time and research into this step. Don't let this be the only deciding factor, though, because every school offers different amounts of financial aid. Another important decision is school size. Do you want to attend a 2- year or 4- year university? Also, if you have already decided a major, this may affect your decision because your initial first choice based on tuition or size may not offer your major. Students, once you and your parents have decided what college you are going to attend, take some time to enjoy your choice! This is probably the biggest decision you've made to date, let everyone know how you feel! Once you get to school, it will be tempting to go crazy and not focus on school work, but..resist this urge. The educational benefits will pay off in the long run. College is the best time of your life! Soak in all the new knowlege each and every day.

Lesley

Go to all available orientations, and get involved with an organization whether it be Greek sorority or fraternity, sports team or working on campus!

Luke

The main thing to remember is that everyone is different. Some people know exactly from the moment they enroll is a secondary institution what they will be. Most people don't. For those of the latter, I say to you this: take your time. College is an expensive choice and should not be used to fill a gap in your life. I say to you "Want to go to college!" because if you simply show up with no direction, you will end up lost and confused, not to mention a couple thousand dollars in debt. You will end up like me. I was lost for a year but I was enrolled. On the one hand I found out that I loved atmospheric phenomenon while attending and enrolled in what I feel is a very impressive Physics Program. However, for a year I felt like I did not know what I was doing and my grades suffered. I felt like I was wasting money. So, please, consider your time, what you are truely passionate about and above all, is college right for you right NOW. Colleges will always be around for you.

Kory

make sure you tour the campus and the town. rowan unversity has its ups and downs but i love coming back every year.

William

Make sure you visit all the colleges you are interested in, regardless of distance. Make sure you can afford the school, and that the student uderstands his percentage of the payment. Make sure the school offers the programs and education you are looking for. Make sure the surrounding area is something you are comfortable with, try to meet some of the students and ask them directly what they think of the school. Check out all the different activities, clubs, sports, etc. that the school offers and make sure it coensides with your needs.

duane

look at the surrounding community

RJ

The right college has to be the right fit for you. The size, location, how close it is to home, what there is to do, and what the other students are like is just as important as their academic programs and the price. Once you find the right fit your college experience can be the best.

Kelly

The college experience is a great one. The best advice I can give about finding the right college is to visit any school you are even slightly interested in. Sometimes when you get to a school you thought you would love, you hate everything about it. Also, don't be focused on the "name" of the school. Sometimes the schools that do not have the division I football team or the IV league reputation, will fit your personality and goals. Also, remember to not put so much pressure on finding the exact right school for you on your first try. Many high school students are only eighteen when they are searching for schools and they can make mistakes. Transfering is always an option and many times a tremendous learning experience. To be sucessful in school, manage your time! You can easily get into the habit of going out every night and skipping a class here and there, just do not lose focus of why you are there... education! Most importantly have fun and try new things. College is a time for growing and most campuses have wonderful opportunities to learn knew and exciting things, so take advantage of your school!

joseph

Dont settle. Go where you want to go and where you feel will make you feel good, the rest should fall into place. Better to be lost but happy then lost and miserable.

Lauren

Allow your children to choose the school they think is best for them. If you choose wrong you will never hear the end of it!

Caitlin

For parents, I would encourage them to believe in their children and let them choose their own paths. Let them know they can choose wherever they want to go for whatever they want to do. Don't limit them. I would talk it over with your children about what restrictions there may be (distance, money, etc..) so they do not go beyond what is available to them For students, I would highly encourage you to stay overnight on your prospective campus before deciding on it. You never really know what college is like until you've been there for the nightlife. Definitely experience all that you can - sit in on classes, try the food, go to the library, talk to other students, visit the gym. Make sure you are totally comfortable with the school and its surrounding area. Make every attempt to make friends, too! Be outgoing as a freshman and get involved right away. If you let too much pass you by too early, you will wind up disliking college before it's even started.

Melyssa

Definitely visit lots of schools

Kevin

Look for colleges that have strong programs in what you want to do with your life. How much you pay for doesn't really matter. It's all going to be worth it in the end.

Ariel

To find the college that is best for you, you have to visit many colleges. I suggest saving all literature from each college and bring a notebook to jot down notes about what you like and don't like about the school as well as what questions you still have about the school. Going to the school is important, becuase you can usually get a good feel by visiting whether it's your type of school or not. Once you're in college, I suggest getting involved in various extracurricular activities. The trick is to balance these activities with school work. It might not be easy, but it certainly isn't impossible. Any activity in which you can show any sort of leadership skills or service to the community is well worth while and can open up many doors in your personal and professional life.

Ryan

Look at as many schools as it takes until you find the perfect fit for you, don't settle. Once you find the right school and you are settled in get involved. Find a club or organization that interests you or play some intramural sports. Make sure you make enough time for everything, time management is very important. Plan time for studying, recreation/workingout, and social time with friends.

Matthew

In order to truly pick the right college and create the best college experience, you truly have to rank what is important to you. Start with the program you want and look at schools that offer it. Look towards the ones with the highest retention ratings and most job placement ratings. Next separate the schools by region or size, depending which is more important. Do this for a couple of schools and visit them. I can not express the importance of visiting a school enough. Physically take in the school and listen carefully on a tour; you may find out some pointers that are not listed on the school's webpage. It is a bit overwhelming at first, but if you break up the vast options into tiny pieces, the work becomes fun and defining of yourself. Good luck.

Dwalyiin

Go visit the school and decide from there, start really early and go see the classes and professors makes sure they have what you want.

Juliana

My advice to those searching for the right college to fit them is be patient and take your time. The college that is right for you will just fill that you fit into place along with everything on campus. Do not be deterred or discouraged if you have been to many colleges already; when you find it, you will know it is the right school for you. Oncve you find the right college, enjoy every experience you have over the years. Do not just bury your heads in books...yes it is great to study, but allow yourself to get out there and make some friends and join some clubs or organization. Allowing yourself this freedom will give you a balanced life of work and socializing. Balance is definitely one of the keys to a successful college experience.

Melissa

Finding the right college is very difficult especially if you are unsure of what you want to do with the rest of your life. It is very expensive to switch schools so make sure when you pick a college to go to you are one hundred percent certain that's where you want to me. College is a great experience and definately the best learning experience of my life.

Erika

Study and pay attention and don't forget to participate in every class.

Josh

Your college experience is what you make it. Appearances are not everything. Get up, get out, and start learning how you can become an active member of your campus community.

Laurie

As a senior, I have attended four schools. I have transferred three times and I offer one bit of advice to parents and students. Parents, help your kids decide but do not decide for them. Students, you need to decide for yourself. You cannot go to a college because your friends are going there or just because you like their mascot. You need to look at the size of the classes, where you will be living, the quality of the food, how far the stores are, you need to make sure they have a good orientation program so that you do not feel lost. You also need to check out the majors your school offers. Even if you have no idea what you want to do, evenutally you will, and you need to have options.. Take your time and do not rush your decision.

Robin

My advice would be to explore your options and discover what it is that you or your child truely wants (i.e. class size, atmostphere.) Talk to faculty and staff as well as current students to help you make the decision of whether or not the school is right for you or your child. Also, look into finacial aid options because there are tons of opportunities for everyone to get some kind of aid, regardless of race, class, or gender.

Kelsey

Make a list of what you want your college or your child's college to include. Research university's that fit the list the best. Be sure to visit colleges you are interested in. I know when I visited some colleges I knew right away I did not want to attend that school. Once selecting a college it is important to learn time management. Overall, make sure you have fun too!

Mike

The advice I would give is no regrets. My first choice for college was too expensive to go to since I did not get a scholarship. I used to regret not working hard enough in high school so I could have gotten that scholarship. But the choice I made to going to Rowan university was the best decision I ever made. I made so many new friends, joined a fraternity, played club soccer, got involved in two clubs and am so far enjoying every minute of. Living with regrets only hold you back from reaching your full potential. If you want to make the best of your college experience, just be yourself and have fun. You need to know school comes first and play after.

Rachel

Decide for yourself. Don't worry it is natural to be nervous. The first year will always be hard, a part of you will always miss home. Parents don't be overbearing. Students don't forget about your parents they love you very much. Make good choices. Students- its ok to party once in awhile its usually unaviodable in college-life but keep your mind on your work. Focus! Get involved with your university and make the best of your college years (parents- let your kids grow up and enjoy the fact that they aren't completely grown up; they still need you.)

Mike

When you're in college, do not get caught up in everything around you. Have fun as much as you can, but do not forget what you are there for. You want to learn as much as you can and build your resume as great as you can to ensure a good job and life afterwards.

Brian

VISIT COLLEGES! It is the best way to best know what kind of school you or your children will be attending. If you have older friends who attend there plan an overnite visit to get the "inside scoop."

Katrina

Find a school that you are compfortable, not too far but not to0 close is key. Be ready to be open to new friends, new ideas, and new work. Stay in connect with your family, you will miss them and they will miss you. Dont let something that is bothering stay inside let your friend/roommate what is on your mind; communication is key. Be ready to work but do not work too much make sure you give you self the chance to relax or party at least once a month. Dont let partying take over your life, drinking and staying up will efffect you. Talk to your professor they are there to help. Take friday classes; they are smaller and they will help you graduate in four years. Stay on campus the more you go home the more you lose out one and you do not get as close to friendds/roommates.

Anastasia

Rowan wasn't my first choice, but I chose it. I was accepted and offered money by my first choice school. Sometimes, you don't just have to think about how great a school or program is, but how great the school or program will allow you to become. Smaller schools can mean more opportunities. For me, it definitely did. At my first choice school, three thousand students were in my program versus three hundred at Rowan. I am an officer in three clubs and involved in two others. That would have been impossible at the larger school. There are two sides to every story; make sure you read them both.

Deepak

Talk to everyone and read websites. Call the school with questions. Visit the school and take the tour and ask questions. In college, get involved. Learn to MANAGE YOUR TIME!!!!! Always keep your grades up.

Marie

The best advice I can offer is to truly think about the location you want to spend the next four years. Take advantage of the oppurtunity to live somewhere new. It may be the only chance you can get to experience somewhere different. Hey it is only four years and no matter where you end up you can always find good people and new friendships!