Saint Vincent College Top Questions

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

Robert

When choosing a college, make sure that the atmosphere of the college feels right. It isn't always the best decision to go to the highest ranked institution or the cheapest institution. Remember that you have to be at this place for four years so make sure you are comforatble and happy with your choice. Ultimately, what you get out of college comes from what you put in. Don't slack off freshman year, how you do academically and what professors and individuals on campus think of you can follow you throughout your time at school. Most of all, make the most of your time at school. You only have four years in school so try your best to do everything you want to do. Join clubs, participate in intramural sports, and attend a play. All of the activities on campus are there for you to enjoy and you will regret not taking part in everything after college is over.

Samantha

"Pick Criminology." Countless times I have mentally slapped myself for not choosing what I want. I have always been fascinated with why crime happens. I really want to do detective work or work within a federal agency. I knew that I would not enjoy studying science, but my mom wanted me to be a doctor so I declared a Physical Therapy major. If I could go back in time and talk to my high school senior self I would tell her "Do what you want. Don't you worry about what your family wants and pick Criminology as your major because you will love it!" I would tell her how extremely happy I am with my choice to switch majors and study something I love. There is one more thing I would say to the senior me: "Don't change anything else. The person you are now made me who I am today and I am happier than ever."

Carley

Dear high school self, I know you have been slacking in high school; I see it in your grades. It is time to step up and make something of yourself. When you attend college you are going to have the shock of your life but you must stay motivated. Carley, stay focused and choose accounting as your major from the beginning! You are going to get frustrated; it is going to be extremely hard. Trust me, it is worth it. Great things will come your way and believe it or not, you will attend a wonderful college. Everyone will be extremely proud of you. You'll meet new people and have a good student-professor relationship with many of your professors. You are going to realize just how smart you are. Stop second guessing yourself and keep your head up. You'll thank yourself in the future, I promise. Congratulations, you deserve it.

Olivia

If I could back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would say, "Olivia, even though right now your studies come naturally to you, take some time to form study habits that will help you manage your time once you go to college. Take advantage of all the college courses that your high school offers, you could end up entering college with almost a semester of college under your belt. Take the time to research scholarships and grants. College is expensive and any little bit of money helps. Save your money that you have been working so hard for the past few years, split it in half and use it towards your college tuition or buying books for class. Always remember that your family, friends and teachers want what is best for you and are always there for you no matter what. Lastly, trust in yourself and get excited about the future. Do not waste time worrying about the unknown. Believe in yourself that you made the right decision and start making moves to reach your goals."

Elizabeth

Don't let the people in your past hold you back from the great things that the future has in store for you. Some of your high school friends are going to forget about you and others might betray you. This is okay; life will move on. Along the same lines, do not think that just because you spent orientation with a certain group of people means that they have to be the people that you will always hang out with for the next four years. Don't put up with people who do not respect you for who you are. Your truest friends will come from unexpected meetings, and they will be there for you when your fake friends are not. Value these people when they come into your life. When bad things happen, these friends will be your lifeline. Don't make them prove that to you--just let them be your support system when you need them to be. They know that you will do the same for them.

Katie

If I could go back and speak to myself as a high school senior, I would explain to my former self that “although the destination should be kept in mind, it's the journey that will shape you and your future.” I'd then point out that every day is a learning experience and should never be taken for granted because every encounter , whether it’s with a person or a piece of information, has the ability to turn life around to face a new direction. I would also explain to myself that everybody has the power to be whatever they want to be and do whatever they want to do. It just takes determination, a willingness to work hard, and the courage to get back up from failure. Finally, as my high school self begins to roll her eyes, I would note that it’s the little things in life that add up to create the big picture, so never devalue anything, no matter how small. Then, with a pat on the back and a smile that says “You’ll see”, I’d wish myself good luck and remind myself to not worry, we’re in this together.

Kirstie

My college experience thus far has proved to be very interesting and worthwhile. So far I have found that there is a whole new world outside of my hometown. I have experienced meeting people that I would have never met without this experience. Also, since arriving at Saint Vincent College I have switched my major from Elementary Education to Business Management, which without the opportunity to explore my options I never would have decided on. In addition I have a better appreciation for education and I value my future so much more than I had previously.

Sarah

I have gotten a lot out of my college experience. Not only is my education helping me to prepare for a career someday, but I have learned valuable life lessons that will stay with me forever. I have learned a lot about time management. I no longer wait until last minute to study or to get something done. I have realized that I am happiest when it is done early so I don't have to worry about it. I have realized how I learn the best. In the library with my headphones in listening to classical music. It took much trial and error to find out the best way for me to study, but I am very happy that I have finally found the right way. I learned to get along with a lot of people I normally wouldn't associate with through group projects and living arrangements. College is such a great and helpful experience and everyone should get the chance to attend, because I truly cannot imagine trying to find a decent career without the experiences I have gained in just the year and a half I have been there already.

Mary

It is difficult to describe the most amazing that has ever happened to you.

Bob

College has opened me to a whole new world of possibilties. It also has helped me to realize that many people are a good bit different than me, which is a good thing. I have learned how to live with a variety of people, while retaining my identity. In addition to this, college has helped me better see where my strengths lie, especially in the field of economics and mathematics. Before going to school, I had know idea how these two subjects were so intertwined. Another beautiful thing about going to school in Latrobe, PA was that it has given me an even greater appreciation for the outdoors. Nesteld in the foothills of the Laurel Valley, there are many opportunities to hike and enjoy nature. I am so grateful that I had a chance to go to school at St. Vincent, to learn about life, especially from a Catholic, Benedictine experience. There is no price tag that could be put on the absolutely amazing things I have learned in four years at this school.

Anthony

My college experience has afforded me the opportunity to growth spiritually, academically, and globally. If I could, I would stay here longer because of the educational opportunities and the friendships I have made with both my peers and the adults on campus. Some of my professors have spent many hours with me helping me to determine which field of engineering would be best for me. The monks and priests are the back bone of this campus. They are readily available and willing to help us broaden our view of God and life in general. Not only will I leave this campus with an excellent education but I will leave with a much reinforced sense of spirituality and community. I am very grateful to have such an opportunity to experience such a worth while college.

Olga

I have gotten a good work ethic and do conquer challenges by asking for help when I need assistance. I have learned to work together with different kinds of people for a specific purpose and to be creative by using many different opinions and ways of solving any problems. The College is challenging but I know that I will be better prepared for the future with any upcoming challenges.

Daniel

I would easily go back and start over from the end of high school. I believe that I would have paid more attention to detail at the beginning of college, and would have taken the proper time to actually pick a major. I went into the wrong study, and I paid the price for it. But now I can say that I am easily a better college student for it. All the headaches, problems, and triumphs of both college and high school were, and still are, worth it. If I could go back I would change how I studied and prepared, but I would not have changed anything socially. I enjoy college, and will continue to fight the battle, and I will succeed in the end.

Lynnette

I would give myself the advice that class size is not that important and the academic advisors at larger schools are still willing to help. Also, I would tell myself that larger schools offer more undergraduate research abilities and have better facilities for the sciences.

Fredandra

Do not go to Saint Vincent College, don't go to far from home its miserable.

Minh

"Take a cement pill and toughen up. Coz when you're there and you screw up, you take the whole consequence."

Amber

Starting looking at schools in your junior year, it will make your senior year a little bit easier - you won't be rushing to finish applications or worrying about filling out the right paperwork. In the process of finding schools, the internet is a valuable tool, this often gives you the percentages of graduates, the ethnic diversity, and many also offer information to allow parents to feel at ease when sending their child off to college. Also take into consideration not only the academic challenges that are faced at each college and the student to faculty ratio for each school. I would suggest that they take the time to compare the opportunities available to them and visit the campus; many times the photographs that they show you aren?t going to tell you the whole story.

Adnane

I advise students to begin their college search as early as possible. I also advise them to apply to several schools so they can have a choice of where they wish to enroll. The right college would have to be affordable and fit the student's personality. Students who are very active and social would probably prefer a big university with lots to do. Those who are more relaxed and quiet would probably prefer a smaller college. I encourage students to visit the schools if they can, ask questions, and look at the websites. The Internet offers plenty of resources. Good luck!

Adam

It is important for students to find a place that they can see themselves attending for four years, and feel that they would be comfortable there. It says a lot if a student doesn't know if something is the right match, especially if there is an overwhelming sense that maybe that institution is not even close to the correct fit. Parents need to be supportive of their students, and be understanding when a student finds something great or negative about a school. And most importantly, students should never limit themselves to one solid major, because it may not be the major for them, and thats ok. Always be open to different possibilities for your future and what is meant to happen will happen.

Rich

Explore your options and be open minded to every college. Find a school that you can't live without going there. Also, stick it out and don't transfer unless you have a very important reason too.

Frank

My advice to students looking for the right college is to search for their best fit, but not to expect a perfect match. A school can only do so much; it is an institution for learning, but it cannot make you learn! College is what you make of it and your college years are a time when you begin to create the self you want to live with for the rest of your life. With that being said, in all practicality, you should take professors who interest you, make close friends you can rely on for life, study abroad and travel widely, apply yourself diligently to your classes but be sure to pay attention to the life lessons outside of class, and most of all, leave time for leisure and decompression!

Corynne

It is really helpful to visit school before you make up your mind because you can sometimes find a school that you just connect with. Keep looking if you're not sure, don't just settle for what you can tolerate.

Carl

I remember when I was a senior in high school and how difficult it was to choose a college. Your fellow classmates in high school talk about what schools they are attending and each talk about the various reasons they want to go to the college of their choice. Some will say they want to be far away and focus on their social life, while others purely want to attend the most prestigious school they can possibly get into, which works for some but is rarely the right course of action. I started my search for college by considering how far away from home I would be willing to live. I looked at all schools in my chosen radius that were well equipped and noted for my major. After that I narrowed that list down by choosing what size of campus and atmosphere I wanted to live in. Finally I visited the couple schools on my list and applied to the school that I felt was instinctively the best. I believe the most important tip one can remember while looking at colleges is always trust your instincts, your first pick is usually the right one.

Canice

Go with your gut feeling and the atmosphere on campus. Don't let the hype about a place determine that you'll attend, make sure you feel at home and choose a school based on the relevancy of their programs to what career you desire. Don't pick a school because its where your parents went or want you to go, or just because its close to home. Take a chance.

David

Pray

Meghan

attend every on campus event... u already paid for it, might as well get your money's worth

Laura

Don't be shy! Do all of the work required and make lots of friends!

Kelsey

The college you attend should reflect your personality.

Katie

1 - First narrow it down to the colleges or universities that have a good program for your field of study. 2 - Decide if you prefer a small school, big school, or somewhere in between 3 - Visit the schools you have narrowed it down to

Deanne

Advice for finding the right college: Take a tour and visit, you'll know that the campus/college is right for you! Advice for making the most of your college experience: get involved & stay involved, live on campus and stay there as much as you can versus going home, go the the events and activities that your school has to offer!

Brittany

Make sure that you are being true to yourself. College is a time to find out who you are, just remember that to figure out who you are means to make sure that you are being true to yourself at this present time of searching for the right college. Follow your heart and you can never go wrong. If it feels right then do it.

Ashlee

Don't choose a college based only upon who you are today. Consider who you could grow to be during the next four years. If a college is filled with people who aren't like you, it may be a better place for you than a college where you feel at home immediately. You want to be challenged to grow, and you want to be in a place where you can really get to know people who you would otherwise not meet. If you go to a college where you totally fit in with most of the people you meet, you will leave in four years with intellectual growth only. If you can make five or ten good friends on campus, that's enough.

James

Some times a persons instincts are the best thing for trying to tell you where you should go.

Amanda

Visit more than one college. Research tuition and expenses. Get involved. Choose a major you like!

Andrea

If you are not a serious student this is not the place to be and if you are looking for a social school that is always busy this is again not the place. People who should attend this school should really be into school and working hard otherwise they are wasting their time. If you like the small school environment you'll enjoy this school very much.

Ariel

When I began searching for a college to attend, I looked first at what I wanted to gain from the college experience. Growing up in a family of hardworking individuals, I knew the importance of a strong education and the impact my decision would have on my life. I also wanted a positive experience socially. In highschool, I was the student who threw themselves into every activity and volunteered. That involvement was a part of me and I wanted to find a school that would allow me to remain involved. I found Saint Vincent College. It has been everything I wanted and more. As you look at different schools, the most cruical peice of advice I can offer is to visit each school. Create a list of what you wish to gain from college and keep it in mind as you tour. A college should feel like home, a place where you are able to see yourself growing and achieving your own dreams and goals making friendships that will last you the rest of your life. Keep your expectations high and dont settle. College is the gateway to your future so find your perfect fit.

Joe

Look at which college fits who you are, meaning, are you a large school student or a small school student? This is allow you to know if you will like your college experience or not.

Robert

Don't let others' choices affect yours. In choosing a high school I diverted from the norm and went to an extremely prestigous school. It led me to learning experiences and amazing teachers that I never knew existed. Faculty attention an drive was on making the students able to think outside the box and master techniques in the classroom. When I graduated I realized that I was a step ahead of my go-with-theflow friends. So, In choosing a college I did not go along with the trends. I chose a small rural school that offered me a chance to continue a football career. It has lead me to a fulfilling and fun athletic experience. In the classroom I have the chances to let my abstract mindedness run wild. I can let my abilities be known since the teachers at this small school are very open through papers, essays and projects. In summation, it is advisable to consult your conscience to do what's best for you and defend against those who might be steering you in the wrong direction.

George

A perfect fit college is just like a perfect fit glove, it can be one of three things. It can be small cramped and suffocating, large loose and cold, or it can be snug warm and welcoming. I like to think that the best fit colleges always feel the way the last glove does. This is why it is so important to understand the school you're choosing before you actually choose it. Don't buy into the hype of just any institution when it comes to where you will spend four years of your existence that will undoubtedly affect the rest of your life. The point isn't to say I went here or there, it's to say I enjoyed my time at this place, and because of that enjoyment I got a really great education that will allow me to distinguish myself from my peers within my respective field. The truest measure of any college is the quality of its alumni. Whether you become an alumnus who changes the world or not, depends entirely on your ability to love to learn and to learn to love, and to choose a school that can show you both.

Gabriel

It is important to answer some guiding questions because each individual?s personality will affect their chances to succeed at the school. Does the school have the major I want? Should it be a large school or a small one? It is important to remember that even small colleges/universities can be as large as some fairly big high schools. Is the location of the school important to me? To what degree is school spirit important? Along with this, do student remain on campus for the weekend? Are there people with the same interests as mine? This is extremely important because while most of your time is spent studying you need to find people you can form relationships with or else you will drown in your work. These should be people that share common likes, but can grow with you as a person. This can be done by finding what sorts of clubs exist and are popular. Finally, the best thing you can do is ask current student for their opinion. Sometimes the best questions are to ask what they do not like. Be sure to talk with your academic advisers. They are trained and want to help you succeed.

Justin

Find a college that gives the students the BEST education possible. A good school should have unbaised professors that instruct and delight. They should never be negative. Make certain the food is good. Test it out yourself at orientation. Go with the students when it is orientation. See where your money is going. Look for lots of activities that the student can participate in. Also be sure to watch out for the events the campus holds. Look for popular bands and concerts that the students could attend at either the campus theatre, stadium, off-campus nearby, etc.

David

My first piece of advice is finding a school that is right for the student. A student that excels in smaller class sizes, should not, necessarily, enroll at a large school. These students will, most likely, feel out of place and unwelcome and not perform to their optimum levels. Next, make sure the costs of the education are feasible for the desired field of study/occupation. With this, include all costs, tuition, housing, books, and any interest that may accrue on student loans. If the student is unsure of a field, start at a community college with basic courses that will probably transfer. After enrolling, make friends. This is your time to define who you want to be in life. Be open to new possibilities and be willing to experience other cultures. Get involved with clubs and other extracurriculars. While this may seem unimportant, this time gives your mind a way to relax. Use this time wisely. Work out. While this seems an odd suggestion, it was my experience in High school, that this actually helped me concentrate. Lastly, if you don't like what you're doing, change your field-of-study. Afterall, it's your life.

Brittany

I think that parents and students should definitely go on a campus tour. It is critical to see what the campus is like when students are actually attending class, so don't go during summer. If you happen to attend a summer tour, go again on an individual one during the fall or spring semester to get a real feel of the college. I know one thing that helped me decide on Saint Vincent was doing an individual tour which included sitting in on classes. If the college that you are visiting doesn't normally do this, I would suggest requesting it because it really helps you see the classroom aspect of things before the first day of classes. I also did an overnight visit in the dorm rooms with a current freshman which helped me see that aspect of living on campus away from home. Most colleges do not do this due to insurance reasons, however you may be able to stay with someone you know who attends the college to see what the experience is like. A lot of research into the surrounding areas is also a good thing to do before choosing a college.

Ashley

To the students i would say that choosing the right college should be a decision that is made over time. It doesn't happen after one visit or after receiving one pamphlet. It is also important to remember that you should choose the college for your own reasons not for those of other people. I know it is hard to let go of a boyfriend or girlfriend, and your parents want you to choose their alma mater but the best choose for you is the choose that meets all your needs. Also, keep in mind that this is a four year experience, there is no need to try and cram everything into the first year. Now, to the parents, just know that this is a hard time for your child. No matter what they say it is hard to let go of the security of home and move to the next step in life. You may want the best for them but make sure in the quest to find the best you let them know you are proud of them and show them that you support their decisions. Your support will be important to them.

kylee

Expect to adapt to your enviroment, nothing is a good or as bad at it seems

Allison

any experience is a learning experience, look for a school that best fits your needs and wants acedemically and socially.

Scott

Finding the right college is a difficult decision for anyone to make. The most important thing to consider when selecting a college is finding a comfortable fit. The size of a college is very important and directly corresponds to what the college can offer. Smaller colleges with enrollments of fewer than 1,000 students will provide students with a close relationship with professors, however some students feel like there is a lack of interaction amongst students in such a small college setting. Meanwhile, colleges with 25,000 or more students will likely force students to take classes in large lecture halls with some classes containing more than 200 students! Many students find it difficult to learn in this environment. Therefore, middle-sized schools (1,000 - 5,000 students) tend to be a good choice because there are plenty of students to interact with, yet class sizes are typically smaller and students develop personal connections with the professors. Just remember to find a school where you feel you best fit in. If you do not feel a connection with your school, four years of school will seem like an eternity! Therefore, choose your college wisely!

Casie

Students, Know what you're looking for. Have a realistic idea of what will work for you. Look into all the options. Do not make this decision hastily. Do not think you can do this on your own; talk to students who go to these schools and be open with your parents/family. Do not settle for a school you are lukewarm on. Find a place that makes you feel something, one that excites you. Be open to new experiences. Actually go visit the school, perferably overnight. Choose wisely, this is the biggest investment you have made up to this point in your life. Parents, take a deep breath. Have an opinion one way or the other. Be there to guide your child but, allow him/her to choose on his/her own. Be excited for your child. Get informed. Be willing to discuss all the options, even the ones you are not thrilled about. Be supportive and open about what you feel/think. Go see the school with your child. Talk to the administration, faculty and other parents. Help your child choose what is truly best for him/her, not just what you want. And remember...breathe.

Kelsey

I would suggest finding a school that suits your nature the most. Make a compare/contrast list of things you want out of a school and qualities you have that could enhance your college experience.

Amy

To those parents and/or students who are trying to determine which college is right, I would say to look for the college that makes you feel at home. Determine whether your fellow students and faculty members are welcoming and friendly, because this will not only help you academically, but also socially. If you do not feel comfortable on a college campus then something is not right and that college is not right for you. When you step onto a campus it should feel right. You should feel welcome and feel the urge to continue your education. Finally, when trying to decide which college is right for you, first determine what you would like to major in and do with your life, and make sure of which colleges offer you these components. It is a lot easier when you know what you want to do in your future, and if you do not know, make sure someone on the college campus has some good advice and helpful information for you to make this decision.