Salve Regina University Top Questions

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

Jocelyn

Jocelyn, stop worrying! You don't need to apply to thirteen schools! Narrow down your choices. Here's my advice: go on tours. Really pay attention to the atmosphere of the school, because it is more important than the academic reputation. I know that you're a high-achieving student and you are going to want to go to the most prestigious school that admits you. I am here to tell you that if you do that, you will transfer to a different school for your sophomore year. You'll transfer to a school with friendlier students, with humble professors who really care about you as a person, and with an overall welcoming atmosphere. These are the things that really matter to you, Jocelyn. You will gain so much more if you choose a place that makes you happy rather than a place that looks good on paper. Think about it. Think about what is important to you right now, and remember that they will still be important to you as you transition from high school to college.

Samantha

I think I made the transition pretty well, however I think I would tell myself that my friends from home will always be my friends from home. I dont need to worry about loosing them or not seeing them often enough. If they are truly your friends they will always be there for you. More importantly, having fun is important. School work will always be a priority but you need to let loose and have fun because college is only four years, and believe me they go by very fast.

Katelyn

The first thing I would tell my younger self is that you always need to work hard, no matter how easy you think something is. You never want to take the easy road because you can end up finding it more difficult in the long run than you originally imagined. I would also tell my younger self that it is okay to be yourself, soome people will judge you beause they don't know how awesome you really are. If they can't see that for themselves, then there is a reason you can choose who you associate yourself with. Lastly, I would tell my younger self that she has had a pretty blessed life with so many people that love and cherish her, and she should be more appreciative. You never know when you are going to lose contact with someone, or there maybe a situation that will cause you to no longer be close, and you don't want to take for granted the things that you have. There is always someone who deserves it more and has less than you do. Be strong, young one. The future looks bright for you.

miranda

Dear Miranda, There is no need to escape to a school across the country, you will make plenty of new friends even if you go to a school close to home. Your grades freshman year DO matter. Senior year it will be miserable trying to get rid of the damage that C + caused on your GPA. GET INVOLVED EARLY. Join the campus activites board and develop new interests, this is where you will meet your life long friends. It is also the best way to know about everything going on around campus. Never stop applying for scholarships, they can be given out year round. Also, write to the financial aid department at your school mid year to ask if they have any extra funds to award in the form of a scholarship or grant. Often, students transfer and their scholarship package funds become available. To help financially, become a Resident Assistant. It is an amazing opportunity to get free room and board and the best campus job their is. The RA staff will become your new family. But most important: you now have a clean slate and the sky is the limit, so dont be afraid to reach high.

brad

We must never give up, these would be the first words of advice to myself. I am now 33 and have a substantial work history loaded with dead ends and lost time that I will never get back. I would have to stress the importance of finishing College at a young age and following through the first time around, because while my back may not be broken now, I will surely be meeting some employers that intended it to be. And while finding a good job is a substantial benefit of finishing school, nothing compares to the feeling of empowerment we recieve from knowledge. During my two years at Clackamas Comunitty College I saw many kids just dissapear from classrooms I even urged many of them to stick it out, but they were never to return. This is what I must persuade my past self to endure, the riggors of College, because it in no way compares to the endless toiling of a dead end career.

Julia

Dear high school Julia,

Krystal

As a teenager I was timid and the idea of college was intimidating so I chose to wait to attend until I was in my mid-tewnties. Had I realized the strength and potential I have shown over the years, I would have started sooner. For this reason, if I had a chance to speak with my 18 year old self, I would tell myself to go for it. I would tell me that I am so much stronger than I gave myself credit for and I would inform my "younger me" that she can achieve anything if she puts her mind to it, but she has to take the first step. I would also inform her that she should never settle. You can not achieve your dreams, if you never reach for them.

tara

I would tell myself that being homesick is normal as well as feeling lonely. Making new friends takes time and to not rely on only one person because sometimes that person isn't as great as they seem to be. Concentrate on school and homework, but remember to have fun as well.

Ashley

If I could have a conversation with my high school self, I would tell myself to breathe. I would tell myself that it is okay not to be perfect, that it is acceptable to be different from everyone else, and that often times our flaws are what allow us to find ourselves and flourish. I would also tell myself that chances are, the vision that you have for yourself in the future is far from what you envision at this time, and that is perfectly acceptable. There will be great times ahead, there will be sad times ahead, but in the end you will make it through everything and be a stronger woman because of it. You will find your calling, and you will excel at it. But most importantly, if you fail, you will have the strength to stand up and try again. You are beautiful, you are smart, and you are worth taking risks. Just breathe, and go after your dreams. You will find the path that you are destined to follow.

Cleora

I would tell myself that college is a rewarding, yet challenging experience. I would also tell myself that there are going to be obsticles that I will find very difficult and that I will have to use all of my determination and resources around me to combat these obsticles. Lastly, I would tell myself that I can look forward to a great four years in college and that I will enjoy all the activities and classes that I have been involved in so far.

julianne

If I could give advice to my high school self it would be to not over think everything about college. In high school college seemed like there would be too much going on for me to handle. But college is not as crazy as it sounds. Remember that college is a brand new start and that all the freshman are going through the same thing. Be yourself and you will be okay. You should think about a few clubs and activities to get involved in so that you keep yourself busy because it is better to be a little too busy than not having anything to do. Do not stress about wondering if you made the right choice because everything will work out and be fine in the end.

chelsea

I would make sure I focused on time management. Being able to get multiple large projects done at the same time, while still having a social life.

Joelle

I have not gone to college yet, but I know that you need to learn time management in order to have a successful high school career.

Christina

Make the best of senior year--it is still important! Take a challenging class that will be intriguing, it may lead to your major in the long run! Do not pick a school based on the money that they give you, chances are you are going to have student loans regardless. Choose a school that will make you happy because happiness has no price, and a rewarding educational experience is priceless. When applying to schools, choose at least one large, one medium, and one small university so you have the room to change your mind. Take advantage of any special days to visit the schools, stay overnight, and attend a class--the best way to get a feeling of the university is to be there. If a school feels right, you WILL know. Do what is best for you, not your parents, sibilings, or friends, because at the end of the day it is YOUR education and experience. College will be the best time of your life, because it is the only time you will ever have to do everything completely for yourself.

Lauren

If I could go back in time and give myself advice, I would tell myself to stress less about the social aspects of college life. My biggest fars about college were making new friends and living away from home, but it tuns out that the academics at the college a student attends is what will make or break a college experience. I chose the perfect school for me and I know this now because I am enrolled in one of the best art programs in the country and I have excellent professors who go out of their way to help me become the best student I can be.

Lindsey

Two years ago when I started out my senior year of high school I knew the year would fly by. What I didn't know was that I would have to make some of the hardest decisions of my life. Those decisions had to do with which colleges I would apply to and eventually which college I would attend. Now as a sophomore in college I look back and wish I could tell my younger self what college is actually like. I always used to be afraid I would choose the wrong school. I would tell my younger self not to be so scared, because college is what you make of it. Making friends isn't hard if you put yourself out there and try new things. Learning new subjects isn't that difficult as long as you put in the effort. What I didn't realise as a senior was that college would change my life. It would help me to find myself, disover my true friends, and find my pations in life. Even if I had known this two years ago, I still would've chosen Salve Regina University and I'd chose it again today.

Justine

As a high school senior, I was obviously overwhelmed by the idea of attending college. Mainly, I worried about leaving my friends and family behind because I could not imagine being truly happy or receiving enough support during college without my loved ones close by. However, within the first day of college, I realized that most of the freshmen at Salve Regina University felt the same way; students were crying as their parents drove away and that first night, students called their parents and friends to tell them every detail about their first day. I did not feel as vulnerable and alone anymore because the other freshmen were facing the same difficulty. In order to take our minds off our memories of home, the other freshmen and I involved ourselves in the campus activities, such as movie nights and cook outs. By hanging out with each other, we realized that even though we cared about our friends and family, we should not waste this opportunity we were given to meet new people and form strong friendships. Therefore, I would tell my high school self that the key to feeling comfortable in college is finding others to relate to.

Andrea

I questioned if I even wanted to go to college. I was graduating from my high school in Maine and feeling disconnected from the college search process and my fellow classmates' elation. I wasn't drawn to the colleges I looked at the same way the other students in school were 'so pumped about.' I felt alone and doubted my intellect as well as potential for change. I was overwhelmed with my academic future and felt my college career was bounding towards me so fast, I couldn't know how to slow down to catch myself. Of all the things, however, that I can reflect upon and realize what I got out of my college experience, it is to be grateful and allow for the process of life to unfold. Had I not gone to school I would be a very different person today; a person unchallenged, dispassionate, and indifferent. Through the years at Salve Regina, I met countless people who have changed the way I think, see, and learn. Being part of the field hockey team, extracurricular clubs, studying abroad in Ireland, and meeting my fiance, there are countless experiences that have changed me now for the better.

Jessica

The transition from high school to college can seem daunting, but if you go into it with an open, optomistic mind it can be a great experience. Don't be afraid to approach people or join clubs or sports teams. Durring the first couple weeks everyone is in the same situation, and chances are the person you start talking to was just too afraid to do the same thing. This is a time to step out of your comfort zone and take advantage of any opportunities that you come across. Go ahead, try new things and make new friends. College is so much easier and more fun when you have a great support network of peers around you. You can wipe you slate clean and start anew. No one knows who you were in high school or about that time you tripped in the cafeteria in middle school, so don't be afraid to show people who you are, because there is nothing holding you back. This is only the beginning of a fun, exciting, sometimes stressful, but always fulfilling experience.

Honore

Don't be scared, you are going to do just fine!

Daniel

My advice is to go to class, since most teachers have an attendance or participation grade, you get a better education, and you?ll get higher grades. Study, since there are fewer classes per week to spend on a subject, so most of the material is your responsibility to learn on your own. Set aside times to do your work, so that you can have fun without worrying about unfinished essays. Working with classmates in study groups can help a lot, especially around exam time. Take advantage of the free campus activities because they are usually entertaining and you can win prizes without needing to lose money. Make sure to do your laundry early in the morning so other people do not interfere with it getting done. Overall, make sure you do the work, stay organized, make friends, and set aside time to have fun so you do not become over-worked.

Jennifer

I would tell myself to take a deep breath and just relax. Everyone has their own horror and sucess stories and the important thing is to not base the idea of your college experience on that, rather to go out and create your own version of college life based on the happiness you find at your respective schools. Every person is in the exact same position you are in; new school, adjusting to dorm lifestyle, finding new friends. I found the most important thing for me was to take it one day at a time and just appreciate the opportunity that was given to me to further my education and provide a stable lifestyle for myself in the future

Maria

Pay attention to what you want to study. Not being interest in the money this would give you in the future, but what makes you happy and fill your needs as a human being. Also to use the opportunities, inlcuding teachers that can help you fallow the correct path. They have experiences, an can know more than what you think they can. And last but not least, usea every penny your parents are paying for high school, so use all the services, clubs and get involved in everything you can. This will not only give you more credits, but will make you more sociable and know a lot more people, that could open doors for you in the future.

Marisa

As a senior, I attended a small-town, public high school, where the majority of the students were mostly Caucasian and my graduating class consisted of about 100 students. It had never crossed my mind that I would someday leave the ?bubble? in which I grew up, and experience the extreme diversity of places outside my home. When I was accepted into Salve, I thought it was going to be high school all over again (the ethnicity, the closeness of students, the gorgeous campus) ? and that comforted me. However, my comfort level soon took a plunge as I found out that Newport was not all about the rich Caucasian families and their 1920?s mansions. As I started mandatory community service, I learned that most of Newport?s residents live in extreme poverty and consist all different ethnic backgrounds, needless to say I was not prepared to experience this live changing moment. I wish, in high school, I was more prepared and open to the fact that real life was not the bubble that I grew up in, but something that consisted of all kinds of people and socio economic classes, which I learned to lend a helping hand to.

Rose

As a senior in High School, I had many problems; from being in the middle of my parents not able to afford the school of my choice and me, not qualify to have any financial aid. Since I came to the United States and moved to Rhode-Island with my family and went to Salve Regina University for a retreat, I was determined that I wanted to pursue my education there. The way I felt about the school was extraordinary and I couldn?t spare such feeling on half the school I visited. If such opportunity were to come, I would have couple of advice. I would have pushed myself harder on applying for scholarships and help with my tuition. I would converse with myself letting me know that I can achieve anything; all I need is the confidence and motivation to reach my goal which right now is education. Even with my barriers, I would have told myself to reach out because one person could have help. Also to be more motivated and would teach myself that asking for help don?t always make people weak but shows courage and willingness. Lastly, compliments to myself for being as prepared.

brittany

I would tell myself not to worry so much and to apply to more schools than just Salve. I did early action and received my acceptance letter before the others were due.

Caroline

Follow your heart; plain and simple. Don't just go to the school that your parents want you to go to and that you feel that you should attend. Go to the school that, when you visit, feels right and like a place at which you could live, learn, and make friends. That ultimately will be what makes or breaks the college experience for you. College is all what you make it. You need to make the conscious decisions to go to class, study, meet new people, and get yourself involved. Involvement is key to any successful college life because it makes you feel that the campus is yours and that you are a part of something much bigger than yourself.

Liana

If I could go back in time and give my old self advice, I would tell myself not to be afraid of going after what I truly want. I always wanted to be an actress, but back then, I was too afraid to audition at schools with competitive theatre programs, even though I had the talent. Now, I am looking to tranfer to a better theatre school, and it is much more difficult to do now that I am a sophomore. However, instead of regretting coming to Salve, I am thankful. This is where I got my confidence!

Gina

I would tell myself that to be more outgoing. You only go through college once and like high school it goes by fast. People respond to people who know what they want and make their wants a reality. Also, I would tell myself not to sweat the small things because in the end they are not going to matter. College is about finding yourself and having the time of your life so don't get too caught up in class and homework. Remember ti have a social life because the friends you make could end up being your friends for life.

Sydney

Make sure you know what you are looking for in a school. Do your research prior to applying and visiting schools will be the best way to picture yourself on campus.

Haley

I didn't let anyone else pressure me into choosing a certain school. I just knew when it came down to the last minute of which school to pick.

Samantha

Picking the perfect college for you is easier than it seems. Narrow your top five priorities down first such as majors, athletics, location, size, and food. Then from there select and visit schools that grab your attention. College is all about what you make of it, so regaurdless of what school you choose it is possible for that to be the perfect school for you if you have the right mindset. Get involved in everything you can, you will meet lots of new people and form strong bonds and lasting friendships. Make great first impressions and always remember who you are and everything will work out perfectly!

Alexandra

I truly believe that there is a college fit for everyone, it is really important to go and visit your prospective schools because I know for me, the moment I stepped onto Salve's campus, it just felt right. I think size is a very important factor because I think the smaller the college, tighter bonds between teachers and friends will form. I also think that it's important to see a lot of activity going on around campus, this is good for several reasons. It is a way to meet new people, it makes students want to stay on the weekends instead of going home, and it helps to avoid the potential of breaking rules and getting into trouble. It is so important to join a club, a sport, or find a hobby that makes you happy because aside from just academics you need something to make you happy and keep you busy. Parents definately need to let their kids make a choice, while for financial reasons I can see parents needing to hold some weight, but the experience is for the student and there are options to be sought for financial assistance.

Carlos

In order to find the right college you need to know exactly what you want in a college. Pay attention especially to the number of students, activities, and the majors offered. The most important factor in making the most of the college experience is taking any opportunities to try something new. Trying new things helps you to meet new people and learn something new.

Elizabeth

In order to find the right college, the best thing to do is keep your options open. Visit as many schools as possible. You need to see all the options in order to make the best decision possible. And attempt to find the school that you get that comfortable feeling, like that place is the perfect fit for you. During the application process, keep yourself organized and on top of every school. Also do whatever you can to make yourself look the best you possibly can on paper. Use all the resouces you have around you to the best of your ability. Make each college understand why you should be accepted to their institution. Once you are at the college of your choice, you should attempt to do whatever you can to make the most of your college experience. Get yourself involved, take plenty of time to focus on your studies, meet as many new people as possible, develop as many resources as possible, and experience as many new things as possible. College is a crucial time in your life where you are in a whole new environment and preparing yourself for your future ahead. Work hard, but enjoy yourself!

Andria

I would tell parents to encourage their children to think about the long run when it comes to tuition. Is a private high priced school the best for them in the future when they have to repay student loans. They should simply look closely at all aspects of the school. For students I would say stepping out of their comfort zone is the most important after two years at Salve Regina University I have finally found a core group of friends who I am fond of and enjoy spending time with. I know that taking time to break down your own personal barriers and experiencing things that at one time may be frightening is very important to becoming an independent self sufficient person!

Kara

Get financial aid!!!

Matthew

Making a decision based on the first feeling about the college.

Becca

Try to find a school that fits you. It sounds cheesy but you really will click with the right school. I have tons of tours to prospective students and I know that you're eager to find the "right" school. Listen to your heart, ask the important questions and you will find it. Good luck!

Kym

I would tell students to go to a college where they feel most at home. Spend the night with a friend who goes there to see if you like the extracurriculars. Attend a class and see if you feel like you would be able to succeed at a college like this one. I would make sure that you are far enough from home that you are not tempted to be there all of the time, but to be close enough where you can go back easily if you need to. I would tell people not to live with a friend from highschool because friendships change and this will prevent you from growing on your own.

liam

Look carefully and visit the school before attending. also give yourself at least two semester to adjust to this new lifestyle

Amanda

students:Do what YOU love, choose a school that YOU are completely comfortable with...parents: KEEP AN OPEN MIND! My mom did not know what I would be doing with my life as an art major at a Catholic Liberal Arts School but...I'm a senior and about to graduate with BA in Graphic Design and Photography and it's safe to say I made all of my own choices and do not have one single regret about picking my ideal school and setting up my future plans.

Ryan

The best advice is to visit as many colleges as you can before you make your decision. Because there are so many colleges and universities, one is bound to fit you academically and socially. When you do pick a school, make sure to get involved with on campus clubs/organizations right off the bat!! This allows the new student to get a sense of what their school has to offer.

Paul

Take your time and make sure the teacher student ratio provides a learning envirnment

Lee-Anne

My advice is to find a college that gives you everything you want, regardless of the cost of tuition. I chose a college out of my price range because it offered me everything I was looking for in a college, and although i'll be paying off loans for many years to come, I have never regretted my decision. It is incredibly important to find a college that not only offers you the educational experiences you want, but also will provide you with extra-curricular activities, internships, and social networks that will give you an all-around experience and provide for you the best outlook for the real world.

Caitlin

Judge each college visit upon the "feeling" that you get from being there, surrounded by students that you may or may not easily see yourself being a part of. Do not judge any students that you meet before getting to know them. Potential friends lie around every corner if you are willing to let them be so. Strive to be open minded, challenge your ideas and values, be willing to contemplate introspectively, be ready to grow and change, want to learn and enrich your life. Try to take best advantage of your professors-- they will be the smartest and most inspiring people you meet. Ask around for who the good professors are-- even the most toturous material can be taught and learned if the prof is exciting and engaging enough. Learning is the most important thing one can do with themselves in making the world a better place. Appreciate the opportunity for education and greet every day with eager enthusiasm.

Allison

You need to find the college that fits your needs and wants the most, not just a few of those needs.

Leanne

Many students are eager to graduate high school and immediately leave the environment they have grown up in. For small town kids, they may believe they want to get away from home and be on their own in a city. I also thought that I wanted to get away from home and be by the ocean. O boy was I wrong. I had also let my parents pick out my institution for me because I had wanted to make them happy. My advice to parents; be very patient with your kids as they venture into a world they don't know. But watch their faces very carefully as they go to visit each school. You do know them best and your advice does count, but not for everything. Take into account, the professors and extracurricular activities because without those two factors, an individual will not succeed. Everything else will work itself in to the picture.

Blair

I would say to go on visits to the schools and observe the social setting as well as the teaching methods to determine whether or not it is relevant to what you are looking for. Definitely consider the distance from home, as many freshman get homesick and feel a little lost in the begining of their college life!

whitney

I think a college should be chosen based on the academics there. College is very expensive and i think it is best to get the most out of it. Last year i hated it at my college and soon realized that although it is nice to have friends the money is so i can get a better education. You will always find those people who you know you will be friends for life. So chose your college based on the teachers and the major you are interested in and worry about friends once you get there :)