Sacred Heart University Top Questions

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

Gabriela

If i could go back in time i would tell my high school self to follow subjects that they are doing well and are enjoying. To follow strengths rather than to find oneself in college. I think many students do not know what they want to do with their lives after highschool and go to college to figure it out. I would tell myself to go to a small school since i perform better with less students. I would also advice my old self not to follow my heart. Following my heart lead me nowhere. If you want a change, sometimes the school that has less students we know is best because our focus is in school and not on people we know.

Emily

Hello Emily...theres a lot more you need to know about the future and college life than what you see on T.V and hear from your friends. College is hard. It can be easy if you try enough. You may be used to doing large amounts of homework during high school, but get ready because there's even more out there for you in college. Besides having tuns of work to do, you get to live on your own, and that is probably one of the best parts! Everyone says you won't have your mom and dad nagging to you everyday, and its nice...but you need to make sure you start nagging yourself and focus on your goals. DO NOT START SLACKING. The minute you procrastinate, or push something to a later date, you will fall behind. College is fun though once you get past the work, but don't go out there and have too much fun. There are so many kids who throw their lives away because of one stupid mistake, or one bad move. But if you are willing to stay focused and keep your mind right, you will be able to achieve anything.

shayla

Take advantage of what comes your way. The offer a lot of free things, and with the way work study is set up, free will be your best friend. Also, make sure you go out and have fun! Yes, you are there to excel, and excel you will, but you need to go let lose. Joing multiple clubs is the right way to go. That's where you can show off your talents/ get invested in something other than Netflix. Mkae sure you call mom, dad, and nana. You're basically 3 hours away from home and they miss you more than you know. All in all, use what you have and make sure to take risks because the actions you take, no matter how silly they may seem, makr for the best memories.

Kimberly

Do your homework and pay attention in class. In college, there is no one here to make you do things, you need to do them for yourself. Start taking care of yourself your seinor year by doing things without being asked. Volunteer more and get more comfortable with your classmates. Be more outgoing and join new clubs because college's love to see you being active and joining new things.

Kimberly

If I could go back in time, I'd tell myself to put more trust in others, be more passionate towards the things I love, and love with everything I have. I had great time management skills since I managed 3 sports and school at the same time, and I loved going to school, but shortly after graduating, I realized that I did not take my education seriously enough, and once I didn't play sports, I didn't know what to do with my time. I also took advantage of the relationships that I had in high school, and thought that they would last forever with a little bit of effort during college. I was wrong, and I am still mending those relationships to this day. I've realized that not every one is out to hurt me, that even though some people have disappointed me, that I cannot assume everyone else in my life is the same. As I go through graduate school, I am meeting new people, making new friendships, not taking positive things in my life for granted, and making every negative experience in my life a positive one.

Adria

I would tell myself that there is a college meant for everyone. I would also tell myself to join as many clubs and activities as possible during your freshmen year because that is how you meet so many people. In college, it is important to make as many connections with other as yo possibly can. With connections, there is future success!

Jessica

I would tell myself to explore all of my options and that some things aren't as important as I thinkthey are. Making a decision about where to go to college is a huge responsibility and greatly effects your life course. If I could go back, I would look into more schools and oppurunities, such as applying for more scholarships. I don't regret my choice in attending Sacred Heart University, I am doing very well academically and have learned alot. The attention I get in the classroom has been extremely benefitial to my growth. However, I was not prepared to make such a huge decision at the time I did and I wish I knew all the factors. I would also tell myself to cherish every day, hang out with friends as much as possible, and get involved in everything. As a college Junior, I feel like time is flying by, and If I could go back, I would get involved in as much as possible and not take a minute of it for granted. I personally had an amazing High School experience, but I'm sure with my knowledge now, I could give myself a few important pointers.

Shannon

Being only a second semester freshman so far, I can already say Sacred Heart University is where I am meant to stay. I have no complaints about any of my professors. They are always available for extra help and willing to answer any questions I may have. The Nursing Department is top-notch, which gives me a great feeling on how happy I will be the rest of my college years here. Becoming involved in Campus Ministry, Sacred Heart's Liturigcal and Concert Choirs, and the Student Events Team has brought me to meet wonderful people that have already taught me so much. Attending a university, such as Sacred Heart University, is not only an exciting and thrilling experience, but a priviledge that I will always value.

david

College has been a life altering experience, insomuch as I have made lifelong friendships, have the avenue to achieve my goals, involvement in varsity sports and attending a top Catholic university with personalized, individualized, engaged learning. In addition, I have become involved in meaningful community service whereas the members of our community extend out services and time to the needy population in surrounding communities. The fulfillment achieved from the aforementioned is a spiritual awakening that has changed my outlook on life. Furthermore, the education at SHU is an outstanding experience, with dedicated professors willing to share only their acumen, and their time and attention with each student to ensure academic success. The privilege and opportunity to play a Division 1 sport, with stellar coaches, teammates and the support of the school spirit is an experience that will be indelible throughout my lifetime. The coaches not only support individual growth in the skills of the sport, but promote the community service, team commitment and encourage academic excellence. I continue to grow and develop autonomy, confidence, independence and seeing the world from the perspective of others through community service. I am most grateful for the academic, athletic and spiritual experience at SHU!

Jessica

So far I have gotten new study skills and how to balance a lot. My time management skills are beyond me.

Ashley

Many believe that college is just continuing school from high school but it is truly something much more than that. It is a step into our future careers, a place to find who we are and who we want to become as individuals. For myself, I continued dancing because it has always been a passion of mine. In being part of the dance team i was able to find friendships with many people and understand what it truly means to be part of a team and more importantly, a family. Sacred Heart allowed me to also give back and be very involved with local communities. With just 3 semesters left, i would not change anything with my experience at Sacred Heart amd can only build off it until the day of graduation.

Alexa

College is a place for me to grow and redefine my life completely. Before I attended Sacred Heart University I lived in a world that was self centered. I felt only responsibile for helping people with whom I had a connection. After only a few weeks at Sacred Heart I found myself thrown into a world of community service and surrounded by people who spent their lives giving back to others. I quickly found myself involved in activites that I would have never dreamed of doing before Sacred Heart. Sacred Heart has given me the opportunity to build three homes through Habitat for Humanity, raise money to purchase 500 turkeys for Thanksgiving (to donate to families in the Bridgeport Community), and mentor a little girl for the past two years. It has been valuable for me because it changed my life and the way I see other people and my desire to help them. I live by the quote, "the best way to find yourself is to loose yourself in the service of others" and Sacred Heart has made that possible for me.

Devan

College has opened me up to a host of new experiences. In my two years there I have met friends that will last me a lifetime. I have also expanded my educational reach and really learned a lot more than if I had just stayed at home. I am on the equestrian team and my riding skills have expanded greatly from my college riding experience.

Deanna

From my college experience I have grown as not only a student but as an individual. My peers and professors have challenged me to push my own limits and try new things. I have been exposed to people, cultures, and experiences that I would never have come in contact with if I had not attended Sacred Heart University. That exposure will remain with me when become a college professor myself and it is my turn to teach.

Kathryn

I have gained many friends at this school. I love all of my professors. I met the man I am going to marry. The amount of school work here is a lot but I know the school is preparing me well for my future! I would not have chosen any other school!

Ashley

Since I recently transferred to SHU I haven't gotten to experience much lately but I love it here. Everyone is so nice and the teachers and staff are so willing to help and include you that being here has changed me as a person and has made me love college!

Sarah

Beore I went to college I was very shy and very sheltered. After my 4 years of college, I am now pursuing my Master's Degree with a new found appreciation for life. I have a better outlook on life and am now very outgoing and have made life long friends. I know without Sacred Heart, I would not be where I am today and I am thankful for each and everyone of my professors for pushing me to be the greatest I could be. I would not change this experience for anything, which is why I am attending Sacred Heart for my Master's program.

Justin

I have made a lot of good friends and learned a lot about what I want out of life. I have made a decision about what career I want to pursue.

Jerry

Because college life creates the real you and build characters inside of us.

Jason

Thomas More realized that "many are schooled, but few are educated." The same can be said in our time: many students go to college, but only a precious few become educated, incumbent to which is to possess a love for the lifelong pursuit of truth. Fittingly, then, my experience at Sacred Heart University is best described as one of intellectually vigorous classes, innovative campus events, and culturally engaging trips, all of which allowed me to experience and develop an ever-deepening and broadening desire to understand. To become educated in this manner?at once personally enriching and globally relevant?is increasingly rare. And yet, it is vitally necessary. The university, according to English political theorist Michael Oakeshott, must provide such a foundational experience, 'an initiation into a civilization? [a] beginning to learn our way about a material, emotional, moral and intellectual inheritance.' This is more than reading great books, although that is certainly an essential part of any education worthy of the name. It is primarily about acquiring fluency in "languages"?how to think historically, philosophically, scientifically?and having the "leisure," as in being wholly immersed in learning. I am very grateful for the opportunity to have done just that.

Jesse

Don't close yourself to the world, but open up and get involved right away. It is okay to attend the band social events even if you don't know how to dance at all, or cannot communicate as easily as other people. Learn both how to love and respect others, but if anyone rejects your gifts, don't let it get you down but stay true to yourself. There is more joy in giving than in getting. Be honest with yourself and then you can be honest with others, and most of the time they will appreciate that courage (those who don't may not make very good friends). You may not have learned any spoken language naturally, but you might instead be able to say that your natural language is music. Do your best to get closer to that answer.

Kara

In high school I was unmotivated. To be honest I never really had a passion for what I was learning. I was more concentrated on getting through the week to reach my beloved weekends. I have always been involved in clubs like the honor society, mural club but I never gave it all I could. Transitioning into college I realized my passion. As much as nursing is not the most glorious job, it is what I enjoy doing. I have met friends that I would do anything for. School has taught me to be open to different types of people and new experiences. I have so far been very successful and I believe that is because of my friends and the professors. I wish that in high school I was as motivated as I am today. If I had a chance to go back to high school I would tell myself to be more trusting and confidant.

Brian

If going back in time to talk to myself as a senior was possible, I would have very precise things to let myself know before starting college. First would be to NOT take chemistry on my first semester without better getting a feel for college work and time management. Chemistry was a very time consuming and academically challenging class that I was not ready to jump into my freshmen year of college. The next thing I would state would be to make sure I saved more money than I did for books and to order the books weeks before the classes started to ensure their on time arrival. I made the mistake of buying unnecessary purchase for my videogame collection instead of saving enough money to pay for books ahead of time. This resulted in an insane scramble for money and time when class started. This is a mistake, I?ll surely avoid this semester. Lastly, I would let myself know it will all work out in the end and not to get too stressed out because Sacred Heart?s faculty will be there to help immensely when things seem too overwhelming.

Cymone

If I could go back in time and speak to myself my senior year in high school I would simply give myself a choice. I would tell myself that I could continue to choose the path that I know I took or I could do better in school, really focus on going to a 4 year instead of a Community College and give myself an option to do better. It was harder for me to get out here than it needed to be but I know it was all worth it. I learned a lot by going through what I did and it also helped me to be more focused on academics while I'm here, away from home instead of trying to have a social life and partying hard because that's what I did my senior year and it definitely wasn't beneficial in the long run but it did teach me a lesson and I feel more responsible being here and finally accomplishing coming to a 4 year college.

Kristin

As a current sophmore in college, I look back at my senior in high school self with a mixture of pride and a little bit of disappointment. I am proud that I worked as hard as I did and took two AP classes to help boost my grade point average and challenge. I would tell myself that I should not have been so concerned with my grades going down and calmed down during the application process. I did not give myself enough credit. I would tell myself to not let my fears get the best of me and would have applied to schools outside Connecticut and would tell myself that getting rejected from some colleges is ok; at least I would of tried. I would also have told myself not to stress so much about making friends because I found some of my best friends despite fights and what not. As a final note, I would have cherished my alone time in my house and my pets, but I learned that school and home both build up the foundation to a sucessful person.

Norma

I just cannot believe my high school graduation is tomorrow. I still remember how scared I was the first time I came in through the main doors of the school, it seemed that every body knew I was new to the school. Now as an adult, I feel sure and secure of what I want. I understand the responsibility of showing up for class, doing my homework, managing my time wizely seems important. Now that I have the will of attending college I must apply for scholarships. Having a baby and becoming a full time student does not seem easy, but she is my strenght, my curage. I want to give her the best, an education, so this is the time, it is the best moment of my life, I have the support, the choice of attending college, this dream is for you, my LIZA. In a couple of days I will be leaving you while I go to school. While you sleep, I will be doing my homework. As you grow up I will also grow in education,the jurney will not be easy but it is not impossible. I know I could do it, it is my dream.

Cambria

I would advise myself to watch my spending more closely. Do i really need to go out to dinner or to the movies so much? Also i would have advised myself to spend more time applying to scholarships, so that my debt at the end of my four years would not be as high. Mostly i would tell myself to enjoy my time in high school and not try to grow up so fast.

Tierney

Life as you know it now is about to change pretty drastically. I know how comfortable you have become with the consistency of your group of friends, your boyfriend, and even walking the very same halls every day. I also recognize the anxiety you are experiencing over change, especially one as significant as moving away from home and starting all over at square one. There are some things you should know that will help you with this. First, you need to stop worrying so much about what's going to happen to your relationship with your boyfriend. He is not worth the unhappiness you will experience and the classes you will miss when he breaks up with you. Do not waste your freshman year reacting to his behavior. Next, do not worry about the awkward lonely feeling you will have at first. You will make some great friends over the next couple of years. Work hard in school, but don't forget to enjoy yourself, in moderation. The more positive you are, the more people you will meet who are just like you. And remember to bring plenty of microwaveable meals...using the stove tends to result in fire alarms!

Kim

If I were to go back in time, and go back to high school, I think the main change I would make is to go to a prep school like my parents recommended. My high school was very small, there were no A.P classes provided when I went there, and I believe that is what has hindered my college experience the most. My first semester of college was difficult because many of my fellow students already knew most of the material because of what they learned in high school, whereas I wasn?t blessed with that knowledge. Everything was so new to me, and I felt that I started my college experience way behind. It?s a very discouraging feeling, that I wish I could change. I also believe that attending a prep school would have helped with my athletics, and might have increased my chances of being recruited to either play hockey, softball or soccer like I had hoped, which could have possibly helped with my financial situation. Overall, I think going to a prep school would have been the best choice in changes, but for now I just need to work harder than most, and do well.

Patrick

I would of learned how to write better. I struggle with writing and college is basically all writing. I would also of enjoyed high school a lot more and meaning of family. Once you get to college you are on your own in the semi real world. High school was a lot more structured. Family as well because I dont see my mom and dad to often. So in high school I wish I had done a little more with them.

Candice

Time management is the key to a happy and successful time at college. You must learn to plan ahead and focus on when and where you like to get your work done so you can be at your peak performance. Living a healthy life style by getting enough sleep , eating good stuff (occasional junk is acceptable, you are only human) exercising you body (gym, sports, walking) , and enjoying oneself with fun activities will refresh the mind and body and prevent BURN OUT. Learning the art of multi-tasking can give you extra time which there never seems to be enough of in college. Ask for help when you need it, there are many resourses but you have to make the leap to find it, they will not find you. Time spent worrying is totally unproductive and should be avoided at all costs. When in need of a pep talk call mom or dad! P.S. Don't overdo the caffeine -you won't be able to go to sleep!

Ines

I would have applied to more schools, especially now knowing the type of major I would have chosen. I wanted to major in international affairs, but my school did not offer it. Also, I would have lived on campus to get the true college experience; living at home, while saving money, has been a burden in terms of making lasting friendships on campus. Other than that, I am satisfied with my school. Of course, with time comes wisdom, and I have learned quite a lot in the past four years. Now I can only take that knowledge and plan my future accordingly.

Ines

I would tell myself to live on campus, yet to also work hard and try to get involved on campus.

SAMANTHA

It's sort of like in Mitch Albom's "One More Day," where the main character, Chick, gets a second chance to change decisions he'd made along the way. If I were given the opportunity to talk with my senior year-self, in addition to trying to convince the 17-year-old version of myself to be a bit nicer to my mom and to please get rid of those beat up jeans, I would definitely advise myself to visit and tour more college campuses. As a senior I knew I would be going to college, but my grades were merely average. That said, I knew Harvard wasn't in my prospectives, but neither was community college. I was somewhere in between. To me, if it wasn't a 2-year school or and Ivy League school, they were all the same. If I knew then what I know now I'd most definitely encourage myself to look at more schools. Tons. Twenty if that's what it takes. Each and every school is so different and going to their campus is the best way to discover what school is right for you as an individual and a student.

Cori

The college search process is difficult but invigorating. Parents, be sure to be there for your kids and LISTEN to them - they are the ones who will be attending the school, even if you are paying for it! Forcing them into a school that you like and they don't will only end up in wasted money because they will not try as hard as they should. And students, show your parents/families/friends what you are made of. Figure out what you are looking for in a school, and only apply to those. Be honest with yourself - this is your future and you need to do your best to make it what fits you. Apply yourself academically, to extracurriculars, and socially. Remember to leave a few extra hours a week to do what you want, whether it be spending time with yourself of catching up on sleep! Surround yourself by the right friends - ones who will support you and will be positive! And if you end up unhappy where you begin, don't settle! Keep looking until you find your college, because I know that I did!

Courtney

I would have to say to definitley take the time to visit all the colleges you're interested in. You'll most likely get that "homey feeling" on one or more of the campuses- take into account how far away it is from home, how much it costs, and if it will help you in the long run for your career/sports. If you know anyone in your area that goes/went to that school I would advise asking them ANY questions you have if you didn't already ask when you visited the school. Go into your freshmen year with an open mind, ready to make new friends. I know there are a lot of horror stories when it comes to gettin your first roommate- don't let that worry you- seriously, there's ways to fix a little problem like that. Don't take your courses lightly, but don't forget to have fun when you can. You shouldn't be stressed out everyday throughout each semester, these are some of the best years of your life that you can't get back once you're in the real world.

Alexandra

For students, the main advice I would give is that they should join clubs when they get to school. They need to be outgoing for a while, even if that isn't their personality because you will probably make more friends and meet more people. For parents, you should know that your kid will be ok. If they need you, they will call, but they really will be ok.

Christina

I would tell parents and students to start the college search early, make multiple visits and to talk with current students to really get an idea of what the school is like besides from the tour guide's perspective. If you have a chance to stay with a friend overnight at the school, I would encourage that. That way you can get a real insiders look as to how the college will be.

Eric

My advice for choosing the correct college is that parents and students should make multiple visits to each college in which they are interested at different times of the year (i.e. once in the summer, once during February vacation, and once while school is in session). Also, understanding the culture of the school is about as important as understanding what it offers from an academic standpoint, because a school's culture is generally what makes it unique and is what can make the student either happy or disgruntled for 4+ years. To make the most of the college experience, a student should introduce himself or herself to many people on campus as soon as possible. A new student needs to develop a strong network of peers, upperclassmen, and faculty/staff so that making friends and becoming involved in activities will feel/be natural rather than a forced effort. There is no substitute for good networking in college, because you never know who will help you get your first job or help you develop into the person that you will be for the rest of your life. Make sure you meet as many people, and learn as much, as possible.

Lindsey

Use your resources. Every high school as a guidance department, ask questions. Talk to older siblings, cousins, family friends to get an idea of their college experiences. Think about the things that interest you and look for schools with great programs in that area of study. If you are undecided about your future education plans, choose a school that has a variety of options and majors and exceptional core curriculum classes that allow you exposure to many studies. Look at school websites to get an idea of what the school looks like, before you go on a visit. Mostly, dive into the college search with an open mind. It can be exhausting, nerve-wrecking, and stressful, but it is all worth it to make sure you have the real "best 4 years of your life." Parents, your input is well appreciated, especially if you can offer advice from your own experiences. Try to be relaxed and helpful during the process (the kids are already stressed!). Remember, afterall, it will be their time to grow, so let them choose a place where they feel they are most likely to prosper!

Jennifer

Look for a school that makes you feel at home. Notice the other students when you go to visit, and try to have a one on one conversation with a professor in the field you plan on studying: this will be able to give you a good idea if the school is one you will feel comfortable in and will grow in. You want a school where you feel you can grow as a person and as an intellectual. Check out the dorms and make sure they fit your needs. And parents, if your child's first choice school is one that you cannot afford, do everything in your power to try and make it happen. It will mean the world to them and they will be more likely to try their hardest and to succeed.

Jennifer

The best advice I could give to a prospective college student and their parents, is let the school find you. You will know where you truely fit and belong when you first walk onto that campus. Do not stress over the tuition, or constantly compare or critique every school. Keep an open mind, visit, learn, talk to students and don't be afraid to ask questions. This is where you could be spending the next four or so years of your life, make them the best.

Kathleen

I would say to go on campus take a tour and meet some of the students. A visit to the campus and asking questions from a real, honest student is good to judge how a campus may be.

Heather

make sure that if it is an extremely costly school, that your children are going to focus and do well

Sophia

I believe the most important thing a students should consider when choosing a college is passion. There is not point in pouring all of your time and money into something that, in the end, is questionable. Since graduating, I have learned that many of my friends realize they still do not know what they want to do with the rest of their lives. It is ok to not know exactly what you want to do. The most important part of college is not the money you will make when you graduate, or the status of your occupation, but if your college experience and the outcome feed your passion. Take the time to find out what you really love, instead of jumping into a major. In the end, listen to your heart. I switched my major from business to psychology because I knew that, even if I was compromising potentential job oppourtunities, I would be happier now and in the future. I did not listen to what other people said, I knew in my heart what I wanted to do and I went for it. If you complement your passion with education, then that is the key to happiness.

Dario

have a plane and take as many internships as possible

michele

Stay overnight at a college before you decide! it'll help you get a feel for the campus and the people.

Caroline

Visit every school you want to attend, stay overnight and see how the atmosphere and how the weekends are, go and sit in on a class, and get the overall feeling of the campus. Make a friend when yo uvisit and see how they are dealing and how they feel. Find someone who's transferring out and ask htem why they're leaving maybe it'll tell you more than you would expect about the school. But most important make it affordable, going to college is a big step into debt, make sure your really happy for the amount your paying and the education your recieving.

Courtney

First I would make sure whatever colleges you apply to, have everything you are looking for. That could mean, athletics, academics, social, housing, etc. Then once you narrow your choices down, go visit the campuses. You will be able to tell which college is for based on your visit. You will feel at home somewhere and that feeling you can't get from a letter or website.

Jennifer

When finding a the right college, there are a few things to look for. Do the students that attend the school enjoy going to school there? Does the school give a lot of financial aid? How is the atmosphere of the school? Also when you step foot on the campus can you see yourself attending the college. With these few things, it is helpful when decided on whether or not to attend the college.