Shaw University Top Questions

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

Maya

I would tell myself not to obsess ove college choice, as if everything would fall apart and God would desert me if I chose the wrong college. If you feel like you made the wrong choice, you can always transfer. Life choices rarely come in just one narrow lane. Learning to be decisive even if you risk making a mistake is more important. Wherever you go, you will want to find a community and people you trust. It isn't the size of your social circle that matters but the quality of the people you choose. Success at a college campus doesn't just come to you individually. You need people. Finally, learn the art of time management. You have a limited amount of time to do things and get things done. You often have less time than you think.

Natosha

If I could go back in time to my high school self; the advice I would give myself is to do your research, and always have a back up plan. I would tell my self this because I didn't do my research on Shaw, and I hate to say that is was the biggest mistake that I made to start my first year of college off. I have so much potential, and talent, and I feel like it all got wasted coming to Shaw. I would tell myself to take time, and be vigilant, I have time to make the right decision. Knowing now what I know about college I would also tell myself to take everything step by step, and hang out with the people who influence me to do better. There is so much trouble that one can get into in college, and I rather hang out with the people who want to see me excel, and create a better future for myself. College is college we never know what we are getting ourselves into, but I'm glad I had my first experience, because now I know what can improve, and what I can learn from.

senetra

Stay Focused because anything is possible

brandon

knowing what i know now i would would have, asked for more help, talk more to my guidance counslers, tightend up more on my work and studyied harder.

raven

To be prepared for any and everything , have everything organized to the core. Haave and idea of the courses that i would be attending and to visit the university before hand; and stay focus on my classes .

Toni

Like most students, I began my college career after graduating from high school. As life's path took me in a different direction, I left school early, and returned later as an adult. If I could go back in time, I would advise myself to wait a while before going to college. I believe I was better prepared as an adult, having worked a few years. I had developed a discipline for hard work and study, and was able to work fulltime and attend school part-time for the first 2 years. The remaining two years I worked fulltime and attended school fulltime, and graduated with honors.

Nicole

If I were able to go back in time to let myself know how college would be I would tell myself to be persistent and to keep my motivation. I instantly lost a lot of my motivation when the middle of the semester hit, and I most defiantly was wanting to spend more time with friends than do work. So later on when I finally pulled my act together I realized I had almost screwed up. So I really would need to keep my motivation and to remember to have a good life you need to set a fooundation and my foundation is going to be my schooling. It is the number one thing next to family that comes first. I realized why my parents were always on my case about keeping focused on school and doing my homework its because I need this knowledge for my life it is something I HAVE to have I can't just slide by that will get me no where but struggling. And plus if I learn my work and my material you know how easy my classes are? There so much easier to follow along with if I know the material.

jessica

I f I could go back in time I would of told the myself that staying in school is important and that sometime life is hard but it is ten times harder without an education. I also tell myself to work hard and saty on top of my studies becuase in college you need to know what you are doing professor's wont chase you for homework or assignments and go to class everyday becuase it will help with your grades and to show you profssor you making an effort.

Jasmine

Going back in time as a senior in high school i was very serious about my work because i wanted to graduate and go to college and believe it or not i almost made straight A,s leaving high school. The advice i would give my self is when you get bto college dont get lazy because that can effect your grades.

Phyllis

Be prepared to meet alot of different people. Be pro active. Listen alot. Pay attention. Ask questions.

Julius

I have learned to become more independent and I have been able to network with people that can put my career to the top. I appreciate attending Shaw University because it gave me a chance discover my identity and the worth of myself.

Nyasha

The main things that I have gotten out of my college experience is the education that I am gaining. I have never felt so educated before . College has really help me grow as a person I recently voted for the first time inwhich I was very proud. College will help you become a better person inwhich will help you have a better life.

Moneaque

I have got or receive alot of experiences on this campus even though i have not graduated yet but it is very nice to have profesors and other staff member helping you to reach to your goal because in many schools it is not like that so i can only speak for myself and what i have experience so far at times it may be boring but it is not our fault yet it is in our hands to make it alive. it has been valuable to attend even though it is a black school and people may have all kinds of complaints about but it is better to experience on our own before we starts to judge. with all these different types of extracurricular it helps students to be healthy and be apart a sport which with help them to communicate better and know what it mean to be on a team or apart of something which pushes them not only with the sports but with their academics ability also.

Asia

The most valuble thing I have gotten out of my college experience is having to do for myself. I am so use to my mom being there for me that now I have to be an adult and do for myself . This is not a bad thing it's a great thing because it prepares me for the future.

Rachel

This HBCU experience was indeed priceless. It helped me grow and navigate the more complicated bureaucracies that exist. I was also able to take advantage of the many extra cirricular activities this school offered, such as Model UN, ans AU as well as Mock Trial and Quiz Bowl, and sorority life. I had an extremely well rounded experience here.

gilbert

In my personal opinion, I have gotten alot out of my college experience. The most important tool would have to be a purpose in this world. By going to school it has given me a reason to feel good about myself because I am pursuing something that is positive. Furthermore college has helped me set short and long term goals. This in my belief is critical in my growing as a productive member of society. College has also given me a more deeper understanding of myself as well as other people. Thanks to school I now understand how important it is to build relationships with the people around you and that everyone is unique with something to offer. I have realized that going to college in America is a luxury and that many think is out of their reach. I feel that I am blessed to have partaken in this adventure that has dramatically changed my life for the better. The college experience has opened my eyes to a world that I never knew existed. It has taught me that the world is a great big place and that anything is possible I just have to work hard for it.

Wilma

My college experience increased my belief in my own abilities and made me very happy. When I began college, I was anxious. I was nervous because I had been out of school for years, and the thought of attending college as an adult full-time student was intimidating. The results of my first homework assignments had a calming effect on me because I did well. As I studied my lessons, my self-confidence was made stronger. When I passed my exams, I was elated. With every success, I craved more success. On 10 February 2010, I received a letter from the Interim Dean, David Marshall, Ph.D., congratulating me on my academic performance for the Fall 2009 semester. Dean Marshall said, "Your cumulative GPA of 4.0 was most impressive! You should be very proud of your efforts." Attending college is valuable because I learned a wealth of useful information. My self-esteem has grown exponentially, and I made friends among staff and students. Furthermore, attending college is important because it improves chances for employment and promotions.

Shemila

Before leaving for college I never left the state of Pennsylvania. My family could not afford it. I loved the diversity and differant cultures. I learned how to make friends who have enriched my life and I and still close with them today. I learned to be open-minded and to not always think of myself. Most importantly i could learn and achieve anything!

Telley

If I were given the opportunity to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would offer firm encouragement and tell myself to remain in college and finish pursuing my degree. I am a 36 year old single mother of 3. I decided to go back to school Fall 2007. I have had many regrets about not graduating from college but I am determined to earn my degree this second time around. I am scheduled to graduate Spring 2011 but regret not having received my degree in Social Work before this stage in my life.

Shayla

I would tell myself to stay focus and set goals because it is so much peer pressure and its so easy to get caught up in what others are doing. I would tell myself to surround myself with positive people ,people that want to make something out of themselves .I would advise myself that if I need help or if I'm stuggling in a class to seek help ,find a classmate that understands the subject or seek a tutor if you dont understand . I would tell myself that college is not a joke so take it serious because your parents are paying for you to attend school so dont waste their money or your time. Finally I would say theses word to myself: focus, study,manage your time ,ask for help ,set goals, stay postive and be encouraged.

Terrika

College is not going to pay for itself. Knowing what i know now, I would tell myself to apply for more scholarships and financial aid, and just be more active in school. To begin with, i would tell myself these two key things because money doesn't grow on trees where i come from. I think if i would have pushed a little harder and had someone to help me along the way as far as money for school i would not be in a financial mess. In the fall when i first arrived at Shaw i wasn't financially squared away. I couldn't get any private loans to cover me because I didn't have anyone to cosign. It just made me want to give up on life and school . I was so stressed i had a nervous break down. I now pay for school out of pocket and can barely do that because i don't have the money. IIf i would have applied to more scholarships it would have cover me and i wouldnt been so stressed.

AbdulBaaqiy

Be yourself and remember what you are going to school for, and thats for chasing the dream towards greatness...

Mykjuan

When you get there dont think of it as im away from home and i have freedom because the school is your home and the school also has rules that you need to follow or you will be going back home.

Avion

I would tell myself as the years grow on you, you must remember to remain focused at all times. Friends will come and go but you can always depend on God to be by your side. Try to think of the positive out of every situation and remember that their is always something not doing as well as you. Be of encouagement to all those you meet and remember to have fun!

Kelsey

If i knew what i know now i would have applied myslef more in highschol. When i came to college i really got focused in my school work but if i had done good like i am doing now i probably wouldnt have defiently not ended up at Shaw University. The most important thing is to stay focused and never let anyone or anything stop you from accomplishing your dreams.

Richard

Richard, I can truely tell you that there's a huge transitions from being a high school senior to becoming a college student. I would like to share some advice with you. While you're still in high school, don't hesitate to apply for scholarships. It may be long and sometimes boring, but trust me it'll pay off in the end. Paying for school is a struggle so why not take advantage of the opportunities thats out there waiting. Entering college, be willing to let go of past mistakes and personal struggles. Don't let that distract you and take away your chances of getting a good education. Stay focus. You may pick a college out of state, so this will make you more independent, but remember you came to school to get a education and not goof off. With independence comes responsibility, so come prepared to make important decisions. Its so much i can tell you about this college life, but i don't want to ruin the surprise. Just know you're going to love it. Last but not least, be sure to call your parents and tell them how much you love and miss them.

AbdulBaaqiy

Stay focused, and calm and collected its just another walkthrough of accomplishing your dreams.

Timothy

My advice would be: "Tim, what you do now has an effect in the future. If your friends now do not want to go the path that you are going, to be a succesful leader, leave them and move on. Take in as much as you can because it may seem like you don't need to remeber what you learn in high school but in college, you will be tested. Don't be afraid of college, it also a fun enviroment but it business time. Erase that negative thought saying how you want money first before education. Think this way: Education is the foundation of having money and supports for your family in the future. Tim, Keep God first and hold on and hold out to the end because BUDDY after High school your journey willl begins. Have a good Senior year and live to the fullest. Love you brother."

Dominique

If I were to talk to myself as a high school senior I would definately tell myself to keep my head forward. I would say to think about your future. Graduating high school is not the end. It is only the beginning. I would make sure that I'd let myself know that college is not as difficult as you may think it is. If you can make it through college you can can make it through life. College teaches you about life. It teaches you how to become responsible, make your own decisions, to be independent and how to manage time between your personal and non personal life. One issue I would address to myself is that college life can sometimes be stressful. While there are some people that try to help you succeed, there are many people that try to hold you back so keep being strong and you will succeed.

Alicia

My advice would be, make sure you have everything organized such as your FASFA, do not wait late to file. And to make the most of your college expericence by meeting and making new friends.

Stedman

When you pick your college that you want to attend think about this on a raining day will I get out of my bed and go to class or just stay in the bed all day just because it is raining.When you can not go home on the weekend will this place remind you of home. If you love small class enviroment pick a smaller campus just make sure that you fill like you can learn something there.When picking your college that you want to attend make sure you have people there that want you to graduate from the university with your degree and with high GPA.

Kristen

My best advice to give parents and students about finding the right college is to go there and take a tour. I know alot of people who just decided on a college without seeing it. Its better to go and see whats going on first hand then to trust a brochure. By going on a tour you can see not only how the campus looks but also get a feel for how it operates. As far as making the most of the colleg experience only two words to help with that, BE OPEN! In college you're going to see and experience different things just be open and take it all in, these four years will be the best four years of your life!

LaQuita

The advice I would give to students/ parents that are looking for the perfect schoolis stop looking because no school is perfect. Tour as many college campuses through out you junior and senior years of high school as possible. Write down what it is you look for in a school and see who matches it the closest. Look at location and your own personality. Things such as do you want to be far from home, close to home, urban environment or a prep school. Look for where you feel the most comfortable and at home. Me personally, my first choice was North Carolina A&T but being from the small town I am from, Shaw was more at home to me because it was more LIKE home.

Tayvein

Well for me as a music major choosing the right college for me started with evaulating the aspects of music programs. When looking at colleges you should look at the aspects of campus life, education level, admission process, financial aid, and campus activities including groups and social events. As a musician i have to be expose to many skill levels to obtain my degree. For example, when studying music a student would learn mathematics, he or she would have to count the number of beats in the measured. As you learn the values you soon learn to add and subtract in order to find out the counts in a measure or the length of volume to hold out a note. There also comes into place the aspect of history. I use this to evaluate the school's program. When examining finacial aid you use this to determine the right school that gives you the most money for your education. Remember your investing in your future make sure you making all the right decisions. With Social Events you want to make sure that it fits you such as sports, band, social groups, and Fraternities & Sororities.

William

I

Keiara

Make sure you do research and dont just choose a school based on what they can offer money wise or social wise. Make sure that the school fix what the student want to make a career out of and be sure of what you what to major in because it should be something you love. You could be doing this career for life so love what you do and not the money. Far as the experience enjoy the party scene but it should always be after school work is completed because if you dont then you wont be able to stay to party.

Tyanna

I would tell them to first make sure you know everything about this college and set up a tour so you can see what the living conditions are if you planned to stay on campus. Tp make the most of your college experiecne you have to geet along with different kinds of people and explore, make sure you get out and go to a little bt of the parteis but at the same time make your work and classes your first priority.

Rashameka

There is a college that fits everyone who wants to go to school. College is a wonderful experience. It also helps you to get far in life. Going to college is a break through for anyone. Alot of positive things come out of it.

Ashley

make sure you talk to someone reliable about the school but do not fully take their advice until you visit, make sure you visit.

Stephen

I would advice students to be open minded about finding the right college. College is full of new experiences and many students discover new hobbies and interest during their college experience. First find colleges that offer degrees in subjects that interest you. Next research the programs and activities the school offers. Most colleges offer scholarship for programs such as sports, fine arts programs, and academic clubs. Next you should find out the cost of tuition and fees. If the school is affordable set aside a date to take a campus tour. Consider all of these factors when making your decision, remember that social programs are very important to a students college experience.

Jessica

Please prepare yourself for the worst and the best colleges because there's Only one college you will attend and grow into the person you surrounded yourself a round. Pick with your heart not for the family but for you.

Denise

Make sure you know everything about the school before you sent in the paper work saying you are goning to attend the university or college.

Julian

There is tremendous advice that I would be glad to give parents and students who are pursuing the right college and making the most of the college experience. First, in finding the right college I would advise parents and students to apply to at least three schools. This gives you options, and you won?t feel rushed into making an uncomfortable decision. It is best to choose schools that fit you as a student, and as well as a person. Lastly, in making the most out of the college experience, I would tell any student to stay focused on school work first. In college prioritizing is important, and with your priorities out of order it is very easy to spin off track. In closing, the last piece of advice I would give to a student entering college would be, stay true to yourself and uphold your morals and values you were taught at home.

Malissa

I would advise parents to visit the schools that their child maybe attending. It is important to get the atmosphere of the school as well as the surrounding areas of the schools as well.

Kelli

When you begin to 1ook for that perfect schoo1 for you, make sure you have very high standrds in your decision. Meaning, make sure the schoo1 fits your financia1 standings, make sure it gives you adquate security and make sure the 1iving condition is up to par!

Julian

Some advice I would give parents and/or students about finding the right college and making the most of the college experience would be to start as early as you possibly can. Procrastination will only hurt you, and do your best in choosing the best school that fits you. Lastly, I would say during the college experience always be a leader and do what you belive is right, regardless what someone else might think. During the college experience you also need to lean how to motivate yourself and stay focus in and out of class.

Jo

In finding the right college and making the most of the college experience, I would say do a thorough investigation of the college(s) you plan to attend to make sure that the school you plan to attend is everything you desire it to be. In my experience, I found the best way to find out about any college is to ask former students concerning the school you are interested in attending to see if this is the right school for you to attend.

Tri

N/A

Akaia

For the parents of students that are looking forward to going to college in there future. Make sure that the student goes to the campus before they apply for it. This will help the parents and the students get a good idea of what they will be dealing as far as living conditions, the nutrition, and places to study. I would also tell parents make sure they keep the children openminded. That statement applies to applyin to college and being in college. In college you will deal with a lot of different beliefs and it is always good to have an open mind. My last and final piece of advice is to make sure that you know the schools of the univerity,diversity and student to teacher ratio. Not all students are ment for large universities, some universities will not have the schools that you need to major in what you want to major in and some times schools are not diverse enough for a student.

Ericka

Advice for the parents and students to find the right school. You have to find a school that best fits you as an individual. That fits the areas of life you want to work in. You have to do research. Find out what you want in a college such as, academics, activities, organizations, scholarships, internships, etc.