Seton Hill University Top Questions

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

Cameron

If I could return to high school and tell my 17 year old self a few things, I would tell him to work. I play football and in high school I didn't push academics as much as I did athletics. I would tell myself to learn to study and to do well in the classroom before focusing on athletics. Nevertheless, I would tell myself to push myself as hard as I could in football because it would open up so many more windows of opportunity.

Erin

Apply to as many schools as possible. Apply to the local schools that send you mail, emails, and application fee waivers. Apply to schools you have never heard of. Apply to schools that your friends are attending and apply to schools that nobody knows about. Apply to in-state and out-of-state schools. Apply even if you may get rejected or wait-listed. Apply to as many schools as you can because the more options you give yourself, the more opportunities you open up for yourself. Picking the right school for you is a big decision, and having many to choose from will give you better odds of finding the perfect one. Do not doubt yourself. College is an extremely important part of our lives and you want to make sure that you find the right fit.

Jaclyn

As my freshman year of college draws to an end, I recall many fears I had a year ago about transitioning from a high school teenager to an adult colllege student. If I were to give advice to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to take more chances. I was hesitant for the first few weeks of school to really be the outgoing person I know I am. As the only student from my high school to attend Seton Hill University, I was left to experience the transition to college by myself, which caused me to be anxious of new social situations. The truth is, every freshman student I met this year was just as afraid to make the transition as I was. The best thing I could have done was extend a friendly smile to more people to make their transition, as well as my own, easier. If I had done this, I am sure I would have had more chances to get more involved with more clubs, meet more people, and make more lasting connections in my first year of college.

samantha

My advice to myself as a high school senior would really be to never procrastinate, always be organized, up to date on world issues, and to expand my literature. I would definitely tell my younger self to better prepare for the price of college!!! College is very expansive and I was extremely naive about the cost. Financial Aid didn't cover the cost of my tuition, let alone my books or any addition college supply costs. I would tell myself to expand my knowledge of worldly affairs because classes at Seton Hill University take what is happening outside of the classroom into the classroom to allow students to think using issues happening currently. Reading more literature would expand my vocabulary and which would expand my writing ability. Writing is very important in college, if I am reading good literature, and expanding my knowledge on literature, it will better my writing and vocabulary. I would tell myself to always pay close attention in English class and always pay attention to APA format! Most of all, I would tell myself to relax, just breathe, and enjoy the ride! College is a great, amazing, never dull, life changing experience! Have fun!

andrew

Stay in school. Do not be tempted by trying to tackle the real world at a young age. You need time to develop mentally before you can become an adult. Learn things you never were interrested in. Study as much as possible. Never stop questioning things. Fill your head with as much knowledge as you can. If you can major in something that greatly interests you then go as far as you can in the study of that major. A masters degree or a PHD. Do not work hard now to try and survive when you can stay in school and be what you want to be someday and then you can really live. Not just survive.

Taylor

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a High School senior, I would give myself the advice of applying for all the scholarships imaginable. I never realized how expensize college was, and if I could go back in time I would definitely applied for many more scholarships. I would also tell myself that I am now entering the real world, and I need to learn how to do things for myself. I would tell myself that being a college athlete is more difficult being a regular college student, because I must learn how to manage my time, due to all the practices and work outs plus study time. It is a difficult adjustment, but I will get into a regular routine. I would tell myself that I will appreciate my parents so much more once I am living on campus. A lot of high school seniors take their parents for granted, until they reach the real world. I will tell myself to stay positive in this long and difficult process, because nothing of value comes without hard work.

Elizabeth

If given the opportunity to travel back in time to advise myself on the transition from high school to college, there are several things that I would like to be aware of as the younger version of myself. First, I would warn myself of the risks of encountering my first taste of freedom. There are many hazards out there. I should be careful not to be drawn into the exciting fast-paced night life that can be found in college life. Secondly, I should always stay focused on the task at hand. Your education is more important than you may realize at this point in your life. I should not take it nonchalantly. Take things seriously. I am after all studying to prepare myself for my career. Lastly, take a little time to enjoy myself. I should avoid the pressures and stay extremely focused; however, I am still in college. I should learn to balance my life. This should be an experience to remember. Good luck. Make the most of it.

Loria

I would tell myself to sit down, figure out exactly what I wanted to do, explore many schools including those out of state, and understand the limits I have. I have just learned that I have maxed out all that I can borrow from the government. My advice to myself if I were a high school senior would to understand how important it is to figure out your steps and don't just accept the first scholarship you are awarded.

Nicole

In highschool, I was so concerned with how I looked to attend school, making friends, having fun, and then came school. In college I've learned that it's more important to focus on school work and learning because this knowledge is going to help shape my future. I would have told myself to continue enjoying my life in highschool, because those are some of the best years, but I would have encouraged myself to focus more on developing study habits and time management skills to assist in the transition between highschool courses and college courses. Another piece of advice I would give my highschool self is to not worry so much about the transition into college life itself. I have a twin sisters so I have had the pleasure of always having a friend take milestones with me. Going to college alone made me anxious and I worried myself sick. The transition was smooth and I love it here. I miss her but I spent so much time worring that I didn't get to enjoy my last few months with her.

Jasmine

I wasn’t the ideal high school student. It wasn’t until I started volunteering and attending college hoping to find a direction for my life that I found a purpose. I believe I have proven myself a capable student at my current junior college and a determined individual. My professors have inspired me with their thoughtful discussions, their love for their subjects, and how much they want the students in their classes to succeed. After interacting with such strong individuals, I wanted to develop my own enthusiasm for learning and as I took a variety of courses, I not only came to love the excitement of learning simply for the sake of knowing something new, but I also came to understand the idea that giving back to my community adds to my genuine experience of life. Never once have I regretted my decision to attend junior college. The experiences I have gained here with the professors and students have been extraordinary. I will always carry what I have learned at this institution with me, and I look forward to sharing my experiences and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Lauren

I have gotten so much out of my college experience so far. I have learned so much at Seton Hill and have really broadened my horizons in my field of study. I've learned a lot about my campus and about myself also. I've learned how to study better and how to become more efficient in class. I think this is valuable information because I can use these habits in the future when I try to get a job after college.

Amanda

I have received a well-rounded education. Seton Hill is a Liberal Arts university so I have experience in fields from Religion to Art plus experience in my major of Forensic Science. The education at Seton Hill has made me more open minded and taught me to question and research everything. Don't just accept something, look into it further to expand your knowledge. I have also received valuable experience in my major which has better prepared me to work in the field of Forensic Science and to excel in a position in a crime lab or related area.

AnNesha

I have gotten the experience of living on my own. i have no family in pennsylvania so i have to depend on me to do everything for me. I gain the experince to be independent.

Rebecca

As an adult returning to school, this is very easy for me. I know now what I wish I new 20 years ago. Explore all of your options, learn what you need to know about financial aid and scholarships and actually use the information . It may take a bit of effort, but its worth the time. Enjoy your education and make sure you get the most out of each class-don't rush, take your time there is no hurry to move on. The more knowledge you secure-intellectually and spiritually will only help you as you begin your career and lifes journey as an adult. Network and make as many professional and social connections as possible, volunteer and intern, discover every option out there to see which path you enjoy most. Having not only a career you enjoy and can make a living at is the ultimate bonus.

Lehelt

As a senior I did not know lots of information about Universities in the United States because I was in Ethiopia for my high school senior year. One thing I wish I have done is to complete scolarships to fund my education, because everything is not as easy as I thought it would be like. I wish I had prepare myself better about being homesick .

Bethany

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior the first thing I would tell myself is to relax and do not stress. The transition can be difficult, but if you relax it will make things so much easier. Another thing I would tell myself is to be nice to everyone you meet and even though someone may seem different from you or come from a different country they are going through the same thing you are. I would also tell myself to study and read the assigned chapters because it will help you understand what is going on in class better. One more thing I would advise is not to procrastinate and get enough sleep so you do not fall asleep in class.

Valerie

I would tell myself to go after my dreams and major in the subject that makes me happy. This is my second time through school because the first time I majored in something that I don't wish to do for the rest of my life. I'm now very happy as a music therapy major, and I would tell my high school self about that degree and to pursue it right away instead of having to go back for another bachelor's.

Bethany

I would tell myself to not get so caught up in hanging out with my friends as a freshman, that I get behind in my school work and make a lot of bad procrastinating habits that were hard to break, though I did break them. It would have just made it easier on myself to not develop those kinds of habits in the first place. I would also tell myself to break away from my roommate sooner than I did when I was a freshman. There are a whole lot of different kinds of people out there, so don't be scared to meet new friends. That goes along with attending more campus-sponsered events. They are free, fun, and open you up to new things that you might not have tried before or might not get another chance to.

Joe

If I could go back in time, I would tell myself not to stress out about college. It is basically high school, except the work is a little harder. I would also tell encourage myself to stay away from drugs because they are the downfall of a lot of college students. And finally, I would tell myself to just keep on, keeping on. Stay on the right track, stay focused, and keep making smart decisions.

Jasmine

The biggest advice I can give to students, especially in this economy, is to first figure out what YOU want. Parents: let your child decide what he or she wants to do, without influence from you. Then find a way to look at as many schools as possible. The more choices you have the better your chances of finding the college or university that is perfect for you. Do not worry about cost right away. That could limit your options too soon. Find something you enjoy and will stick with for the full two or four year duration, rather than "what you can afford" but presents no academic excitement. Please, visit the schools before you apply. If you can't visit before the application deadline - apply anyway. However, plan a visit before you decide to attend. As far as making the most of the college experience, this will happen quite naturally if you first looked at what you wanted to do. Be proactive and seek information about campus life, rather than waiting for information to come to you. Budget your time wisely, so that can get homework finished, but still check out the mall with friends. Most important - have fun!

Tatyana

The advice I would give to parent or student about finding the right college is to never give up. It is hard to find the right college because there are so many to pick from, but it is possible. It is very important to visit the college to see if you like the enivorment. If you do not like the class size, or the people at there it will be very hard to learn in that enivorment . Also it is important to know about the safty plan of the school. The college experience is wonderful, but when you have come to a point were you feel burned out and you feel like you cannot handle or deal with what you need to do, just remember why you came to school and how much you can help people with your degree. All you have to do is take a break from what you are doing and do something else so you can clear your mind to finish the work. Always make sure there is a equal balance of studying and enjoying yourself. This is why you should get involed with activities.

Colleen

Go where you feel most comfortable at and look at many differnt schools, not just a few.

Andrea

The college/univeristy that you a freshman chooses is their home for the next four years. My biggest piece of advice is to visit the school you plan on attending. When you visit a school you are able to get the full affect of the environment, other students and the size of the campus and its population. I volunteer as a tour guide and often meet with perspective students and their families, I encourage students to ask many questions. Not only are you investing money into your education you are investing time. Precious time where you will meet life long friends and professors who hopefully have the students best interest in mind. By visiting a campus students know first hand if they will "fit in" and if there are programs and activities that let them fully express themselves. :-)

Katherine

Making the choice for a college is a lenghty and hard process. However, when you go through all the tour visits, planning setions, and pamplets, and suddenly it hits you...THIS IS WHERE I WANT TO GO! Go for it! When you know, you know. It is so important to think about what kind of atmosphere you would like to be a part of. Do you want a small friendly school or a large school with thousands? Either way, when you get there...get involved. If you want to love the school you attend, you need to be a part of the "behind the scenes" things. Be part of student governement, give tours of you school, play a sport, or do it all! Slowly take one things and then when you feel like you can't do any more, don't. It is bettere to do a few things really well, then to do tons of things not very well. I think its key to not feel afraid and scared of your college pick. You have to go through the facts and see what you like. Take a visit to the school, talk to current students and see whats up!

Sarah

In my opinion and experience, college is what you make of it. If you send in your acceptance letter with an open and optimistic mind, you can't lose. College is an opportunity for a young person to experience, learn, and grow. Selecting a college can be tough, but all you need to do is go with what makes you comfortable and choose the institution that makes you excited and anxious to go out into the "real world" on your own. Your college should want to teach you, and make you the best and most educated person for your career. While in college, you must be willing to learn and make decisions for yourself, while not worrying about the past or what people think - this is YOUR time and YOUR education. College is the time to grow up and discover who you are and what you want to become. Have fun, but stay smart and listen to the advice you are given, because you are there to learn. Take advantage of the wonderful opportunity you have been given.

Adam

Think about what exactly you are looking to get out of college. You really need to sit down and think about what each school can offer you, and which on fits you as an individual the best. You need to look at everything from academic standards, to social possibilities. Everyone knows that you are there to earn a degree, but you will also be growing as a person/adult at your chosen school, so you need to choose a school that will allow you to do that in the way that best suits you as an individual.

Shantavia

Follow your heart. I didn't understand how important the experience of college was until I began to experience it myself. At first I wanted to go to a school to be close to my friends but in the end I decided to branch out and start my life. It was the best decision I ever made. Seton Hill is the complete opposite of what I am use to. I grew up in NYC and never saw a real winter wonderland until my freshman year in college, in the middle of rural PA. Needless to say it was breathe taking. It was that moment that made me realize that following my heart to this hidden treasure was the best decision I could have ever made. The college experience is one that can not be "made" it just simply happens. Whether you sit and study or go out and party your experience is one you will remember forever and it will change your life.

Karissa

Take the time you need to find out how you will fit with a given school. It's important to find a place that suits your personality (not your parents' personalities or your best friend's personality--YOURS). You spend a great deal of time and energy at college, not to mention money, so make it an important adventure in your life. Explore options you may never truly consider possible, just to see if there's anything at all that fits. You get what you give with college, so taking the time and energy to find a good fit will benefit you in the long run.

Blake

Try to find a college that gives good financial aid and will help you as much as they can to help you pay for tuition.

Brandon

My advice is to do your research and as as many questions as possible. Be sure to see how the school has developed over the past 10 years because this is usually how much more will be built in the next 10 years. Make sure you love the school before you choose!

Jaynelle

If you have a lot of money then go here. If not, go to a community college.

Michael

Make sure you visit!!! Never go anywhere without visiting first.

Jonathan

Take your time in deciding which college is best for you. Make campus visits and talk to students rather than professors, to get a feel of what your life at school is really going to be like. Parents should understand that drinking happens in EVERY college , unless that college is a jail. Don't worry if you are undecided on a major, at most universities I gurantee your major will find YOU if you don't know what you want to do. Have fun : )

Kayla

Go to the college that you like, not the one that will give you the best financial package.

Justin

You need to pick a college were you feel at home. It is difficult to describe but when you drive up to a campus you usually just have a feeling that this is the right place and it is where you are meant to be. Never settle.

Chris

Look around at schools that are both nearby, and far. Ask your college-age friends about schools they looked at. Don't only use the stregnth of academic programs as the leading factor in your choice, but also look at the overall experience and other various campus services as well.

Rose

Always visit the college before making a final decision. There is nothing which can give you a true feel for the campus like visiting. Meet some of your potential professors, coaches, or program heads. Talk to current students in your field to see how they like the school. Once you start school, participate in activites. Don't stay holed up in your room, make friends outside of your roomate(s). Don't skip class all the time, it's understandable to want to try it a few times, that's what college is for, but you are paying too much money to never go. Majors were invented to be changed, it's OK to not know what you want to do... just do something. If the school really isn't right for you, transferring is always an option. Remember these years are for you to discover who you are - have fun with it!

Alicia

A school may seem like the perfect fit, but can turn out to not be. My advice is to not get frustrated with it and to keep searching. Eventually you will find the perfect fit, and it is a little easier since you generally know what kind of school you're looking for after you experience one that did not work. I transferred this year and was so nervous because I didn't really know anyone, and everyone had already made friends their freshman year. Fortunately, Seton HIll has a very friendly campus and I did make friends right away. I also tried to get involved in activities, like cheerleading, to make friends. This turned out to be the best thing for me, because I made new friends and I get a ton of exercise. Also, my coach in understanding that my schoolwork needs to come first.

Olivia

Start looking for qualities that you want in school early. It is never too early to start looking for schools because there are so many schools and so many programs to choose from. When looking for a major make sure you have more than one major in mind at the school you wish to attend because a lot of the times students change their minds after their first or second year. You want to have something to fall back on and this will keep you from transferring after your freshman year. When you start college, stay away from home for about a month because you need to establish independence and start taking the necessary steps to adulthood. When applying for colleges attend college fairs because a lot of the times they waive you application fee and this will save you a lot of money because applications cost. A big part in surviving college is time management so buy a calendar and mark when things are due and what events are going on. Most importantly remember to enjoy the college life because when it is over you will be wishing you were still there.

Danielle

The advice I would give would be to apply to a variety of schools and make sure you visit each one for a good chance to get to know the campus and what kind of things are offered there.

Nichole

Take your time. Read the fine print. Do not sign anything until you understand what you are signing. See as much as you can before you sign.

Chera

I would say to make sure you visit--multiple times. Talk to other students and ask them any questions you can think of. How do they like it here? What are the professors like in their discipline? What's the atmosphere like? What's there to do for fun? I would also strongly recommend spending the night at a school you're considering to get a better idea of what it's like to be an actual student there. You'll learn about social life, the food on campus, and dorm life. Although these aren't class related, these are important aspects of a potential college that you'll want to consider. If you can, sit in on a class in the content area that you're interested in. You can get an idea of class sizes, college professors, and a little experience of what it's like to be a college student taking college courses. Meet with financial aid! Most students skip this part, but they can give you some great advice for paying your tuition. Parents, talk to students and go on visits too. Your comfort is just as important as your child's. Most importantly, ask questions!

Jodi

I think that the most important thing in choosing a college, is picking a place where you feel comfortable. Both mentally and physically. If you can not feel secure, within yourself, and within your dorm room, you will never be able to concentrate on success.

KAYLEY

Don't just stay in your room go out and do something.

Brittany

Sometimes you just have to go with your gut feeling and make it work no matter what. I had the choice between a school I really adorded, but couldn't really afford and a school I wasn't really comfortable with, but could afford. When it came push to shove, my mum and I made it work because it's such an important decision, that if you're not at least 90{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} sure of your choice, you could really end up having a miserable time. And I say 90{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} because there will always be little "what if" questions dangling in your mind and that's totally okay. It makes your opinion more human.

Chelsea

Don't just look in one place, keep your options open. If you need to audition or ave a portfolio review for your major, try even at places you don't think you could ever get in to. And once you are at college, GET INVOLVED. Join clubs, intramural sports, anythign that gets you out of your room and socializing with other students, the people you meet in college could be your life-long friends if you let them! So take advantage of the many social activities your college plans, most of them are free and your tuition pays for them so go to them! Most importantly have fun even while you are learning things that will help you for the rest of your life!

Sara

When choosing the right college and making the most of the college experience, you really need to be able to visit a campus, sit down alone, on a bench, look around, take everything in, and say 'this could be home.' I think you need to feel at home in order to have a good college experience, first a fore-most. You also need to remember to be outgoing and personable, in order to make new friends and learn new things.

Denise

Sometimes the most popular schools aren't the very best schools. Dig deep & look closely at all your options.