Seattle University Top Questions

If I went back in time to tell myself about my college experience thus far, the first thing I would say is how difficult it is living away from home. I did not realize how difficult it would actually be. Coming from Hawaii, it was more than just leaving my family, I was leaving everything I had ever known. I would convince myself that even with the difficulties, I would get through them. I would talk about the great friends I made and the many things I have done that I would not have had the chance if I stayed home for college. I would talk about the trips down to Oregon, snowboarding, and bonding with my family living in Seattle. And finally, that this is all a big learning experience; in the classroom, living on my own, and the discovery of myself. Looking back to how I was as a high school senior, living away from home forced me to grow up and mature. The last thing I would say is, despite all the challenges, I will get through them and become a stronger person.

If I could go back to my senior year of high school, I tell myself to enroll into a running start program to take college credits. Optimally, this would mean time and tuition savings. The average college student does not have enough time to explore all the available possibilities for majors, and neither did I; that is why it makes sense to get core classes out of the way. Another important idea is to spend quality time pondering my major, other academic interests, and ultimately my career. Also, writing out a four year plan, setting out my goals and how to go about achieving them, would top my list. I would then choose the best college that would prepare me for my specific field. College is a time to transition from high school to a career, which allows one to grow and defines character. The point of my advice is that I am concerned that the average college student does not have enough time to explore different fields. After all, college is about personal exploration so taking your basic credits at a much lower price makes prudential sense.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would change a few of things. First, I would tell myself to take my school work more seriously. I received good grades but, I know if I applied more hard work I would have received excellent grades to achieve an academic scholarship. Second, I would tell myself to join more clubs and participate in community service. I worked part time and was on the cheerleading team so; there was not much time for anything. I wish someone would have stressed to me how important it is to have some leadership experience and community service for college applications. However, I think if I managed my time better I would have been able to join more clubs and extracurricular activities. Third, I would have started a saving account just for college. College is very expensive and if I prepared myself better I would not be struggling to pay for text books. There are a lot of things that I would have done differently during my senior year from being more active in school events to starting a college savings account.

If I could go back in time talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to plan everything carefully to not waste time. I would tell myself to take all the tough classes at my running start college because tough classes are even tougher at a university. Instead of working, I would tell myself to there are many loans available and money would not be a big issue. Lastly, I would tell myself that the transition to a university will be tough, but perseverance and time management is needed to endure through it.

I would want to make sure I was completely sure about where I wanted to go, despite where other people I would be graduating with were going and despite the cost of the school. Both of those factors impacted my decision greatly, but looking at it now I have come to realize that I came to higher education for just that--education. Peoples motives for going to a university are going to vary, and I just wish I would have assessed exactly what mine were about before commiting to go somewhere.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to relax and have fun because the next four years will be very tough. I would tell myself to find my passion and stick with it because that is where you will find joy during the rest of your life. Another thing I would tell myself to do is to focus on getting better time management skills. As an athlete, managing classes, practices, travelling, and still trying to have at least somewhat of a social life is one of the hardest things to do. The most important thing is to have fun and try new things because time goes by very quickly, and sooner than you think, high school and college will be over and it will be time to step into the real world and start the rest of your life.

If I were to go back in time to talk to myself as a senior in high school I would begin to research more about independent living. I became a fully independent student once I left for college, I had to start college with no support from my family while starting something new and exciting in a completely different state. I also would have visited the colleges before I chose which one to attend. This was difficult for me to do because of financial restrictions in high school but it would have changed the entire move in process and new student experience. i would also warn myself not to become "overly involved" in extracurricular activites that take away from my studies. I would encourage myself to continue the programs that meant the most to me and that gave back to the community.

I would tell myself to make the most of the time I have in college because I can only do it once. Join more clubs, study harder, make more friends, and enjoy myself because the working world is nothing like the college world!!

Jump in as soon as you get the chance. You're going to have to get out of that comfort zone because keep in mind that you're going to be a long way from home. Keep focused, you're going to college to study and finish your degree first and foremost, that is your priority. But, don't stress, find the time to do something you like, take a walk or go see a play or concert. The city is your campus, don't limit yourself to official campus boundires, expand your horizons! Remember who you are!

Much of our education not only belongs in the classroom but also from life experiences outside of the class. The oppurtunity to pack up and leave your own comfortable environment and venture off into the unknown is an experience that one should take no matter how scary it sounds. College helps us through that process of helping us leave a known environment into something more that will help us become a better person and understand the world a little more each day. Taking a risks is part of the college experience. Take a chance and prove to yourself what you can do because not taking that risk will only limit your abilities. College prepares us for the future and it is okay to be uncertain of what the future holds because that is part of living. Life is an adventure and always seize the moment to surpass your current limitations.

Don't be affraid to go to art school or at least go to a public school becuase you won't get the education needed in your field with jesuits

Apply for more merit-based funding, gear the courses you take to prepare you the best for the exact career you wish to pursue (ie, make sure you have obtained the skills needed as basic requirements on the job descriptions of the jobs you want. Be more career-oriented.

Try your hardest in everything you do because you can not turn back time, you will regret it if you do not try your hardest. Live life to the fullest because time goes by fast.

Put faith in yourself. Others won't always be around, they have their own lives too. So trust your own judgement and follow your heart. Also, don't rule out situations and opportunties just because you don't think you'll fit in. That's how you meet the coolest and most real people.

I would have advised myself to follow my heart to the right college, not the money. If it's where you want to be and if you're doing what you love, there will be a way. At this college now, I feel isolated from the rest of my peers. I chose a school unsuited to my beliefs and my interests. Follow your heart. Even if everyone tells you it's naive, impractical or foolish to do so, you can do no right by yourself if you ignore your heart. Hold onto those high school friendships. They got you through the hardest years of your life. Now, surrounded by strangers, you will need someone to turn to more than ever. Treasure those friendships and let them grow. Let them change. They will become a strong network of history, love and support if you let them.

I would tell myself to relax and not to worry so much. There are things more important in this world than stressing about the right school. Not everything has to be perfect or fit into your perfect little plan. Try to go with the flow and let yourself enjoy the little things. Remember that you are in school so when you get out you can do what you really enjoy doing, working with animals. Things don't have to be difficult if you don't let them be. I would also tell myself to make as much money as possible while you're not in classes, it will make life so much better and easier. Oh and go to class, do your homework and have fun!

I would tell kids to really reflect upon what they need and want out of a school. I would advise them to surround themselves with certain qualities that the school and its surrounding area offer that will better their overall experience, including: class size, close or far away from home, both ethnic and racial diversity, religous or not, city or rural- take these into consideration, deciding which ones will enhance your college experience the most. I would advise parents to help their kids to focus on what will help them the most academically as well as what surrounding will make them most comfortable and able to perform the tasks demanded at college. As parents, you usually have a good take on what your child needs- offer advice whenever asked and support them in their search for a college that will help them grow as person and catapult them into their professional lives after graduation.

I would suggest that students visit the campuses of their prospective schools. I found it most helpful to go on a tour guided by a student, especially if you personally know someone who attends the school who would be willing to show you his/her dorm room and allow you to eat a meal on campus, because these are a few of the things that really affect your college experience. I would also strongly suggest reviewing the courses offered, as well as the general requirements for each school, and making sure you fully understand the extent of your course options. If possible, sit in on a class, visit the school's library, book store and other campus offices, and ask questions of the students on campus: if they feel safe where they are, if they enjoy classes, if they have met lots of friends, etc. Being on the campus of your future school is one of the most important tools in helping you arrive at your decision--you never know what you'll think until you experience it for yourself!

Make sure you visit the campus. Parents dont restrict your student to a school just because it's far from home.

To students (and parents alike): be cognizant of your reasons for choosing a specific college or university. Are you interested in studying something that will have tangible benefits for your future finances or economic status? Alternatively, do you wish to study a subject considered To students (and parents alike): be cognizant of your reasons for choosing a specific college or university. Are you interested in studying something that will have tangible benefits for your future finances or economic status? Alternatively, do you wish to study a subject considered ?academic? regardless of whether or not it may bring financial success? You may not be entirely sure. College is as much milestone as stepping-stone; a sincere attempt at being honest about one?s motivations can aid one in staying focused and can influence positively one?s perceived satisfaction as the result of the labor involved. Additionally, and as silly as it sounds, it can be beneficial to work at being ?periscopic? while in college; that is to say, trying to consider the word ?perspective? and all that it entails. Yours, theirs, forwards, backwards; one must at least attempt to see things that are not directly in one?s line of sight, to see around obstacles instead of only the obstacles. Further, trying to see from as many angles ? vantage points ? as possible whatever it is at which one is looking; flexibility is a must.

Students should visit the college as many times they can before deciding. If possible, the student should sit in on classes in both GE and in the program they intend to study. Students should seek the school that is strong in the area they want to study. They should also seek a strong program in the extra-curricular programs they are interested and most comfortable in. They should recognize the travel costs and living expenses of the area. It is important to find out about on and off campus housing and whether or not you will need a car or can walk/ride bike/bus, etc. All colleges are expensive. Seek any financial aide possible and see what kind of help you will get if you attend a certain college. Another important aspect is the weather. I almost changed schools because the weather is so depressing in Seattle. I am from California and I physically got depressed from the lack of sunshine. I have a strong base of friends and play on the soccer team so have decided to stay. Once you are going to college, take advantage of all the programs and extra-curricular events the school offers.

Determining a college is all about the environment. More or less, one can find an academic and athletic experience at any university. However, finding the right mix of peers and faculty is critical to the selection process. Also, even seemingly insignificant factors are essential such as the location and structure of the university. This involves being in a larger city, a suburb, or in a rural college town, but also describes the size of the campus itself, the landscaping, and the architecture. You will be seeing the same campus for four years, and it should be something you are willing to see for those four years and continue to love and cherish.

My advice would be, when you are ready for college, that's when you're ready to make the most of your college experience. That may sound silly but that was the best advice I gave myself. When you are pressured to choose a career, you tend to be forced to go towards a path that was not chosen by you. You end up being in college longer than you had expected. Your college experience has now "dragged" on longer than you wanted. I dropped out of school right after highschool and did not think college was the thing for me. As time went by, five years later, I realized that I was ready for college. I realized I was missing something in my life. I made the choice to go to college and it was the best decision and college experience that I had. I was able to enjoy what I was learning because by the time I made the decision to go back to school, I knew exactly what I wanted to do and I did not waste any time. I was able to focus and interact with other students with the same common interest.

My advice to parents and students who are trying to find the right college is to keep an open mind. Choosing a school is one of the most important decisions you will make in your lifetime and more than anything you want to make sure that you will be happy attending that school. Everything that you will strive to do in your life ultimately comes back to making you happy. Choose a school based off of the qualities it will instill in you to strive for what you want in life. Success is not measured by the amount of money you make or the things you have experienced but rather your happiness with yourself. Make the most of your college experience by finding your nitch. Try new things so that you can further understand what you enjoy. Keep an open mind to schools and activities that you previously would have never given a second glance. You will be surprised how much you find out about yourself and how much you can grow in just a few years. A better understanding of yourself will help you attain the happiness and success you are seeking for yourself or for your child.

Honestly, I would just say to go with your gut instinct. It is usually right. I had no idea where I wanted to go, and I just went where it felt right. I do owe lots of money, but I am happy with my decision because my school is teaching me so much more than just my major. It really comes down to you as a person, and which school would fit you best. You meet people very similiar to you at your schools because of what drew you to the school in the first place. Good Luck! Always remember it is an adjustment, and if it really doesn't fit you, you can always transfer!

Take a tour of the school with a school guide, but also wander on your own. You have to get a feel for what it's like to walk around and be a part of the campus student body. Read up on the school mission and their goals in educating you, the student. When visiting the school, also make it a day to visit things near the campus. Is there a coffee shop near by? What's the neighborhood like surrounding the school? Are things walkable? These are things you should consider when deciding on a school. Don't get too caught up on deciding a major before starting college. When looking at colleges check what they're most known for and take that into account to what you as a student would like to focus on. Lastly sit in a class period (if possible.) Decide if you like small or large class sizes, whether or not it's an big deal if the professor knows you by name or only by number.

When searching for the right college for yourself or your child, don't be afraid to reach. There are tons of schools out there, across the country and around the world. If you find a school that you really love, but are afraid you wont get accepted, or won't be able to afford it, apply anyway! What have you got to lose? Most schools will work with you to help you pay for college, and there are tons of scholarships and grants to help you out. Sometimes the best way to pick a school is to visit the campus and talk to the students there--don't be afraid to reach out to them! They can tell you all about campus life, coursework, and many will share their stories with you. Finding the right college should be exciting, but don't be discouraged if it's difficult at times. No matter how fun college is, choosing a college is still a huge decision that will change your life forever, so take your time and explore all of your options.

The best advice I can give is to tour the campus and ask students who currently attend what they like and dislike about the university. I think parents should be helpful in the process but remember to leave the ultimate choice up to their child because it's a big life decision that I think a student should have to make for themselves. Check out financial aid things and make sure that the campus offers the extracurriculars and programs of interest for you. To make the most of the college experience, it is important to become involved in extracurricular activities and clubs where you have a chance to interact with the same students over the entire school year. Becoming part of orientation or campus tours is also very helpful in getting the most out of the college experience.

One of the important aspects of going to a univeristy is for one to know what type of enviroement he or she like to live in. I was unaware that I loved living in the city until I spent my freshman year at lifield collge, which is a great college academically but the small town living was not for me and that's when I realized that i need to live in a city.

Make sure that your school is an environmental, social and cultural fit for you. So often people say that what matters is the degree and not where you go, but location, atmosphere and makeup of your school has a huge impact on your experience. Don't look just for programs and on-campus activities; make sure that you will be comfortable in the city where your school is located.

The advice I would give a parents and/or students about find the right college is take your time looking at every aspect of the school. First figure out what you want out of a college to narrow down your choses, ask questions, go and look around the campuses. Finds out how much their getting for finanically for each school, and not to skip the opportunity to sign up for scholarships even if it for only one hundred dollars, because it will pay off in the long run.

Do not pick a college that you know you cannot afford unless you recieve substantial financial aid. The stress of trying to pay full tuition when you cannot afford it or amassing debt in loans IS NOT worth it. Parents really need to let their child pick the school because the location, size and way the student feels is what will create a successful student and worthwhile college experience. Parents simply cannot make that decision appropriately and I have seen that failure that results. Students must pay attention to their instinct, you can only be successful if you are comfortable and happy with your college. Do not rely strictly university specialty or purported graduation and employment rates. If you do not pick a major you enjoy, you will not do well.

I would tell parents nd students alike to choose he school that best fits the students background, needs, career goals, and personality because I feel those are the most imprtant attributes to picking a school. Financial Aid may be a big one too. Parents should be sure to allow their children to go to a school they can afford for the full number of years and even anticipate price increases in tuition.

Try to not become overwhelmed, that will just complicate the process. Don't soley focus on the academics of the school, but also look at the attitude of the students and the surroundings. Academics make a huge impact on you, but you would be surprised how much more your peers and surrounding area have an impact. Listen to Father Sundbourg made a difference too - knowing that the President of your college has a sense of humor is key, it lets you know that the school isn't stuffy or uptight.

I applied to over 11 schools, several were In the IV league, I was accepted to all 11. Dont sweat it. Find a good school, one that will challange you, and help you grow. Undergraduate school 'names' (like Harvard) are not such a big deal... Go where you can afford, where you will have fun, and where you are at least far enough away from home so that your not still using your parents place for laundry on the weekends. Gain some indpendence, your gong to need it. But most of all, learn to be open to more the one idea. Your going to come across a lot of people who disagree with you on issues. Learn from them. Learn from the expirences that other have had, and learn to look to see where each idea or opinion is comming from. You have so many options even if you dont yet know what they are... So try new things, try strange classes and discover where your passions might trully lie. But no mater what, keep execpting that to solve any problem that you face, there is more then one right idea. Good luck!

You have to look for a school that matches the attitude of your student. Ensure the vibe of the campus matches with your student. Do take the time to thoroughly research the school and know what your getting into before applying.

The most important thing my parents said to me when choosing a college was to not worry about the price tag. Parents cannot put a price on education and need to encourage their kids to go to college because it will provide so many opportunities for them. I'm going into the same industry (Accounting) as my mom, but because I went to college out of highschool, I have had so many amazing experiences that she can only dream of. College is a remarkable experience and I have watched all my friends who took "breaks" after highschool to figure things out and it will be so hard for them to get back into "school mode". They wish they had started out of highschool because they would have been done by now. However, I know that because my parents were supportive in my drive to go to college, especially one that I felt was right for me, I will look back on the completion of my college degree as one of my greatest achievements. Therefore, I'll say that having choice will make the most of the college experience.

I would recommend doing a lot of extra carricular activities.

Don't worry on costs if you can take out a loan.

It is important to look at many different types of schools. Even if you think that you might know what school you want to go to you might visit a completely different one and decided that it is right for you. That is what happened to me and I am glad that I chose the school where I ended up. In order to make the most of your college experiance it is important to find the right balance between schoolwork and social work (and your job if you have one.) This balance is different for everyone, and it may take some time to figure out. However, almost no one will be happy if they do not spend any time with friends, and yet learning is also incredibly important. After all, that is why you come to college in the first place.

The best advise I can give is to go with your gut. If you are accepted to your first choice school, make sure to visit the campus and get a feel for the learning and living environment. Consider where you will be happiest, becasue successful learning will be dependent on how happy you are at the school you are attending. Check out the neighborhood around the school as well. Make sure it is a community where there are things you will enjoy doing and that it is a place where you feel comfortable. Check into the professors and talk with some students who currently attend the school. If the school offers an open house, attend it! That is one of the best ways to meet faculty, students, and other prospective students, and it will help give you the best feel for the campus and the community of students.

Really think about the size of school you want and how accessible you want your professors to be.

make a 4 year budget, loans, everything

The most important aspect of the search for post-secondary education is an open mind. Although economic status, family, and other concerns are always present, scholarships and other opportunities are always available for high school graduates. Post-secondary education, whether it be at a community college, trade school or university, is an integral and important choice towards a successful future. That being said, it is important to find a school that fits each student's individual needs. Try to start planning early, around junior or senior year of high school. With the help of the internet and your high school college counselor, each student can search for post-secondary options that best suit their needs. After the college search and application process is over, it's time to make sure you make the most of your education. Be sure that you take advantage of all the opportunities available to you at this time. College campuses offer a wealth of experiences, and the 4 years will go by much faster than you think. Get involved on-campus and off. Find things that you are passionate about, and you will have a very successful and enriching college career.

I would advise parents and students to explore all options--not all colleges are a perfect fit but when you find the right one, you'll know. So explore! Don't hestitate to visit colleges because they might be far away...these will be some of your most rewarding years ever so don't let a few extra miles scare you off. It'll be your home away from home and the students will be your brothers and sisters while the professors, your figurative parents, pushing you forward to succeed. Once there, realize that higher education is not guarenteed but rather a gift-- utilitze it, treat it like you would nothing else and try your best. When you've selected what you feel is the right college, embrace it fully; meet new people, get involved and open up a whole new world to yourselves! You won't regret it.

Finding the right college has a lot to do with intuition. If there is any way that you can spent a night at the college, do so. The college might seem perfect on paper, but you are not just looking for an institution with fantastic credentials, you are also looking for a new home. It is vital that you find a place that will push you out of your comfort zone, to explore your passion. Academically speaking making the most out of your college experience involves perfect attendance. It is crucial, because material covered in class if often material not covered in the text. Furthermore, college is a time to explore various areas of interest in order to really find something that you are passionate about. You can not do this if you are not willing to get uncomfortable and try new things. Hence, you need to get involved as soon as possible. Your extracurricular activities will connect you to the campus and the community. I feel that this is a very important step in making the university your new home. You can not succeed if you do not have a place where you feel at home.

Students and parents should visit the campus of each school they are considering. They should ask a lot of questions regarding financial aid and job placement. They should be sure that there is affordable housing and public transportation nearby the campus. Lastly, they should talk to alumni who graduated in the same field of interest to find out their impressions of the school and whether or not they would recommend it.

The best advice I can give to students and parents researching colleges is to talk to the current students who go to the college, not the students hired by the school, but real full-time students. If you can, go see the school and see if you like the feel of the environment. College brochures sugar-coat everything that they can in order to get more people to attend. The best way in picking a college is by getting as close to the real college experience as possible, either by talking to current students or visiting the campus. Once in college, try to experience all that the college and surrounding environment have to offer. I go to a college in the city and tend to go downtown and see the sites. It's good to want to stay on campus but you should expereince all you can that is in and out of campus. College tends to offer programs and events (ex. movies, dances, sports) that help get the student invovled and interact with others. College is a fun way to explore life and learn the necessary subjects for whatever work field someone is interested.

Apply to schools that you may not think are "good enough" for you. Chances are, they'll turn out to be. Also, don't choose a school just because your parents want you to go there! Once you get to school, don't spend all of your time partying. Check out other things to do on campus, check out the area around campus, maybe study once in a while. There's plenty of time for parties on the weekends.

I went into my college search without knowing what really mattered to me. I thought that what I needed and desired most from my school was a name, a reputation, and the ability to turn out graduates with high paying careers ahead of them. When I got to Seattle U, I realized that those are only perks. Finding the right college should be about finding a place that will support you as a complete individual and help you to either discover your calling or enhance your love and understanding of your passion. By far, that is the most important thing to look for in a school. It won't make the next four years any easier, but it will make them much more fulfilling.