Saint Joseph’s College of Maine Top Questions

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

Lindsey

Id I could talk to the highschool me I'd tell myself to join every club that even possibly interests you. It doesn't hurt to test them out. Getting involved is the best way to make friends and make the most out of your college experience. The time flys by and before you know it your out in the real world and you might not be provided with as many opportunitys as you were in college. Also, apply for scholarships! It is NOT a waste of time, you'll agree when you graduate and start paying off loans. Lastly, enjoy every second of college, try new things and don't worry about everything so much.

Katherine

I was eight years old the first time I told my family I wanted to become a Veterinarian. Now fourteen years later, Saint Joseph's College has gotten me halfway to accomplishing my goal. I am currently a senior in the Pre-Vet program and will be graduating in May. Saint Joe's small campus and close student-teacher relationships provided the perfect environment for me to focus on the curriculum and accel in subject areas where I might have otherwise struggled. The extracurricular activities at the school have provided a social platform where I have made life-long friendships, and have had supple opportunities to learn new skills, build my resume, and give back to the community. Looking back on these four years, I would not change a single step of the way. Saint Joseph's College has made me a better student and member of the community, and I know these values will one day make me a better Veterinarian.

Jackie

I've been able to experience different people. I'm the only one from my hometown to attend and so I've had to make all new friends again. Plus it's allowed me to step outside my comfort zone and find out that I am capable of being on my own. But the skill of getting along with new people is only going to help me in the future. And I've had to learn to do things on my own, so my college experience has taught me to rely on myself more to get things done, rather than rely on my parents.

Shayla

I learned how to stand up for myself. During high school I let people walk all over me because I just wanted to be nice, but I learned that I can't let people take advantage of me. My first year I went through some rough times with making friends, changing to the different learning techniques and what was expected of me, and it also created a lot of anxiety for me, but I came out on top and overall my freshmen year gave me strength, courage, independency, and has made me a stronger individual.

Rachel

If I could go back and speak with my high school self, the first point I would emphasize would be to be friendly. Luckily I made best friends with my roommate and did not necessarily need to go outside of my comfort zone to make other friends. I think that I should have branched out more in the beginning and really introduced myself to anyone and everyone I met. It would have made the transition much easier if I had a lot of friends...I certainly would not have been so homesick if that were the case. The second point of advice I would tell my high school self would be to take studying seriously. When you only have two tests in a class throughout the entire semester, they matter a great deal to your final grade. In my opinion, I did well in my first semester of college, but if I had just studied a wee bit harder I think I could have made the Dean's List. And the last (but certainly not the least) bit of advice I would give myself would be to simply enjoy myself. You only have four years!

Cally

I love everything about college life! However, as a high school senior I was skeptical. If I could go back in time and advise myself I would say three things: meet as many people as possible, be you, and most importantly HAVE FUN. I know it can be hard, but I think we forget the fun in meeting new people. When you are new to a place it can be intimidating, but the first few days everyone is new. A simple hi or a compliment can go a long way. Be confident, I guarantee after making one new friend you'll be excited to make more. Peer pressure: we all know about it, but in college it's not such a big deal. People aren't as judgmental; it's actually admirable to be your own person. Lastly have fun! Try new things, join clubs, and stay out late once in a while. College is a place to grow. Yes there is work to do, but there's a way to balance it all. Experience life responsibly and you will adjust in no time. If you're like me you may find it hard to believe you were ever worried.

Rebecca

Before choosing a school, I would definitely visit all of my options to see which best fits me and I feel the most comfortable at when I'm there. I would also plan to meet with one of the students in my intended major and have her tell me what her view is of the school and the program. This would ensure whether or not the school would be an appropriate choice for me and my education. When attending Accepted Students Day I would take advantage of the opportunities to meet new people and learn what they are interested in and if they are people I would like to spend time with if I attended the school. Meeting other people that are interested in attending the same school can give one an insight on how the students already attending the school may be like. It is important to meet new people at every chance one can, especially if the school is small, because this allows you to get to know the other students that will be in one's class and could be a majority of the school.

Sarah

Everyone wishes at least once in your life that you could go back in time. If I could go back to my senior year of high school I would take that opportunity so I could tell myself about college. What would I say? So much has happened this year. One thing I would tell myself is to study harder and not get mixed up in all the drama. Let's be honest here freshmen year of college is no different then high school for some people. I was one of the first semester, but after looking back I think how could I have been so stupid and choose hanging out over grades, the most important part to college. Another thing I would talk about is sticking up for myself more. I have kind of let myself be dragged into things I wasn't really okay with so senior self don't give into to all the peer pressure and stupidity that will come your way. Although I can't go back and tell myself these things at least I know them know and have learned from them. I can stick up for myself more and realize that homework is important.

brendan

High school what a drag. Poof what the... why your me! yes but i am the college you. what do you want from me.?. I have come to you to give you some advice as to what college holds for you. Oooooookay. I know you have been sweating over your sat's, your fasfa and even your grades. AND?. I wanted to tell you that you are at a point now where your not a kid but your not quite an adult either and the chapter of your life i mean the one without your parents just you is begining. Its okay to be scared life has its advantages and its disadvantages. People will try to bring you down and you know what. What ? DON'T LET THEM!!!! stay true to yourself and as long as you are happy with yourself and you did the best job you could then thats all that matters. Listing to my mother also was a big help who told me to hold my head up hiigh and to never sweat the small stuff and thats what you need to do its your life live it as you want to.

Katharine

Hmmm...tough question, I'm not really sure what I'd give myself as advice. Maybe advice to live on campus instead of being a commuter because it is surely harder being a commuter than an on-campus student.

Kaliopy

Make sure you are finicially secure. At all the meetings and fairs I went to everyone said money isn't an issue, well I hate to say it but they lied, it is. And make sure that you really like the campus, that's a big thing too.

Iris

I think that parents should let their students decide since it will be them who has to spend the next four years there. I would say definitely visit each of your choices and get a feel for the campuses. The most important thing is to find a campus that offers balance and options. If you pick a school just for a sports team or academic program it could be a long four years.

Eric

When looking for the right college ask yourself if this is the place you can see yourself at for the next four years of your life. Is it a place you think can make you comfortable as your high school made you. Is it close to home if you need to go home? Are there activities that interest you? Do you like the surronding area? Take a tour given by a student..they will fill you on their own experiences.

Christy

Everyone's choices and preferences are different when it comes to making personal decisions. When looking at colleges, one must consider all the possibilities and not rush. Making a list of all the pro's and con's of what you want and don't want in a school is the first step in the right direction. The next is to make sure you visit and ask LOTS of questions. In order to feel you're making the right choice in your school you must feel comfortable and confident and there's no better way to gaining these feelings than to ask questions and experience things first hand. One major thing I wish I did was plan over night trips places. Every college is unique and has a different lift style to it. Unless you really experience it first hand, you'll never know what you're getting yourself into until it's to late. Start looking early, apply everywhere and anywhere that looks interesting, and enjoy the search. You'll learn new things and meet new people which will make the transition even easier when it comes time to make your final decision and move in!

Michael

Be sure the size of the institution and the location are right for the student. For instance I am in a rural area and for some this would drive them crazy. However, I love the peace and quiet of the country along with the nature it offers me.

Samantha

Students: You need to think about what you are interested in. If you like a big city, small town, or even a desire to be by the ocean, look for schools in areas of interest. Then find a school with academics that interest you. e.g. business, education, nursing etc. The most important thing is to arrive at school with is an open mind, be ready to meet a lot of new people, and have fun! Parents: Don't limit the schools your student may attend by saying that it is too far away or cost too much. There are scholarships they can apply for and student loans available. Have an open mind when they tell you what they want to do and where they want to go. The more support you give them, the better off they will be. Be a friend, that way they will be sure to call home often and keep you involved in their lives.

Stacy

Go visit the college... Its the best experience you can get. If they offere over night stays do it!!! Thats even better to truly understand a college life, at that specific college. If you looking to play a sport meet with the coaches and some of the players to get a feel for the team. Dont apply to just one school. Look around theres thousands of them out there...

Mitchell

Finding the right college: students should listen to themselves, it is good for mom and dad to get involved, but if they do not pick a college which they like, they will be miserable. making most of the college experience: GET INVOLVED around campus.

Katherine

If I were to give students one important bit of advice about planning for college, I would tell them that it is crucial for them to find a school that feels like a home away from home. The first year at college can be intimidating, challenging, and very stressful; it can also be exhilirating, stimulating, and an incredible experience. A school that provides the right atmosphere, activities, and support can make all the difference. Everyone has different needs and desires, so make sure your choice fits all of your criteria. When you are out "shopping" for colleges, it is very important to remember to look beyond the label. The name and the price tag do not make the school. Your years spent at college will provide you with the degree and tools you need to embark on your chosen career, but it is essential for you to be happy with the path that gets you there. The school that makes you feel like you belong will help give you the confidence and assistance you need for academic success, building lifelong friendships, and enjoying your journey to your future.

Brittany

You know, you'll only get out of the college experience what you put into it. Put yourself out there, try things, if you decide you don't like them, at least you tried. You also may find things you never thought you'd like, meet people you never thought you'd want to be friends with, and have all sorts of new experiences. Don't go in with a certain set of expectations, try a variety of classes. I really think that any college can be the right one, you'll make the best out of anything... but I've only attended one school, so I can't say that from experience. I do know that my school wasn't on my original list, but if I had the chance to go to my top school I'm not sure I would. I can't stress enough getting out what you put in... you have to want to be there. College is an amazing time, and if I could be a student forever I would be. I don't want to graduate, there are so many other things I'd love to learn. Enjoy it.

Amanda

It is important to visit many colleges. When you have found the right one your student will get a feeling that is hard to explain. You will just know that this is the place for me. Once you have found the right place get involved! Meet new people and make a difference. Most of all, remember why you went to college- remember that you are paying for this experience. Most of all, if you need help ask for it. There are numerous people out there that want to help you succeed.

Lindsey

I would definitely tell students to trust their gut when choosing their college--try to find a college that meets most of your needs, because if you don't meet most of them and only a few, you will be disatisfied is someway somehow. Most of all, find a college where you know you can be yourself, study exactly what you want, and have fun doing it all.

Heather

RESEARCH!! Check out all types of schools- big/small, private/public, competitive/not as much, coed/same sex, religious/not, in order to find out what you like and don't like. Make sure you have a meal in each cafeteria- that's important! And ask to tour ALL dorms that you might be in freshman year- often on the biggest, newest ones are shown, and you may end up living in a dungeon. Make sure you check out the local area too. Some colleges are very nice, but the area around them is not as appealing. Ask students (not just tour guides) that you see at the school if they like being there. And ask about student affairs/ security/ advisors, and how helpful students find them to be. What is the reputation of the administration? It's frustrating to be at a school which does not support its students.

Danielle

Go with your gut instinct. When you go to visit a campus, and you just don't feel right being there, don't go there. If you go to a campus to visit and you feel at home and you can honestly picture yourself being there, then it's worth looking into. While taking a tour, or talking to anyone at the campus, don't think any question is stupid, chances are, if you have that question, someone else does or already has asked it.