Southeastern Louisiana University Top Questions

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

Lane

If i could go back and talk to high school self i would have told him "Lane you need to buckle down and concentrate on your studies and never miss class it hinders your preformance."

MELISSA

If I could go back in time, I would ease my nerves about the whole college experience. Trust me, there are many responsibilities, dead lines, and requirements of being a college student, but stressing over college is the last thing you need to do. I would definitely encourage myself to apply for as many scholarships as I could, and invest more time in choosing a degree that would interest me. Also, keeping everything organized is a good tip. Between 17 hours at school and a busy work week, things can get very hectic, but with a good planner to see when things are do, you can balance everything together nicely and really see where your priorities need to be. Another thing I would want to ensure myself is to have a good time, and enjoy every second! Time flies by too fast to not take every adventure life takes you on!

Zaria

If I could go back in time and provide advice to my “senior” self in high school, I would start off by saying that you have to have a plan because without one you do not know where you sure be or what you should be doing and this goes for not only your classes but for your everyday life as well. Being in college has taught me to not only map my day and classes out so that I know where to stop and take breaks and where free time is available but it has also taught me to be organized and persist in everything that I do because without organization and a plan all that you want to do you won’t have time to do.

Courtney

College is defiantly more fun than High school, but it is no walk in the park. College does cost more and it is time since you are an adult to take responsibility. My first piece of advice is to apply for more scholarships than you did, because as I mentioned earlier college is pretty expensive and you have to pay for it. Secondly, I know it was not fun, but take the ACT again, the higher the score the more awards you could have received. My third piece of advice is get a job early start saving now because if you want to study abroad it cost a pretty penny. College has brought bliss to me, but I also know the bliss will turn into financial stress because money only goes so far. Although I’m working at a job I love, as a full time student you can only work so much in order to maintain a perfect GPA. My final advice would be this, if you want a miracle to happen, you have to make it happen. Do not sit around and wait until something maybe falls into your lap, go out and make your dreams come true.

Ashton

If I could go back in time., I would tell myself to stay focused on school. My freshamn year, I was on the danceteam and due to all of the excitement surrounded by that, I lost sight of the importance of my education. I lost TOPS due to this lack of focus. I do not regret anything from my past because it has shaped me into the person I am today, however, I wish I would have focused on school more.

Caitlyn

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to strive harder and to never give up on your dreams. Anything is possible and you can truly do anthing you want to do as long as you push yourself. I would also tell myself to make sure you set aside time for studying. The first year in college is the hardest and I think it is important that incoming freshmen know not to give up; keep trying, push yourself, and you will go far in life.

Joshua

My largest problem in college was the lost of medicaid which cause my schziophrenia to go into over drive and left me unable to complete the semester. I'd advise myself to find a form of back upp insurance and to stockpile medication just to hold me over until it could be renewed. I wouldn't have to worry about partying or drugs as I've always left those follish things in the dust while blazing my trail towards knowledge. I'd also warn myself to be a better boyfriend to my girlfriend at the time. Losing her broke my heart worst than anything during the summer before I started college. With medication, I know I can accomplish anything and now that I have secured medical coverage I'm returning to school and I know beyond the shadow of a doubt that my GPA will soar soon enough, yet again.

Crystal

I would tell myself to be sure of myself and my abilities. I would tell myself to focus, and not lose sight of why I'm attending college. I would also tell myself to not guve up on myself, join clubs, make new friends, try my hardest, and enjoy college life.

Melissa

High school made us map our futures so we knew exactly what to do by the time we graduated. We felt like we had to have an automatic answer for when people asked us, "What are you gonna do next?" I know you have that answer for now, but one day you're going to realize that fashion isn't everything. And when that day comes, I have this nugget of advice, RELAX. You are a deeply creative individual with so much to offer to the world. Be open to all forms of self-expression, even in your academic papers! You'll be surprised with the results. Also, if the course description terrifies you, it's probably a sign that you should go for it. You're smarter than you think, and more talented than you can imagine. The next four years will bring many unexpected changes in direction, but don't ever let them discourage you. Allow them to teach you what can't be taught in a classroom. In closing, I have these words for you: get ready, hang in there, and never stop learning.

tyesha

I would tell myself to make sure that I attend class everyday. Missing class equals missing important information therefore when a test come you wouldn't know something because you missed class for whatever reason. That is mainly why people fail because they miss class ,but other than that have fun and enjoy yourself.

Calvin

If I could back and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself be prepared to work. I would instruct myself to learn better time management skills. During the beginning of my academic career I had some issues with time management. I tend to wait until the last minute to do some assignments but I have learned and grown since then. I would tell myself avoid any form of distractions anything that carries the ability to hinder me from reaching my goal. Avoid student loans if possible because at the end they're going to be more of a burden and not a blessing. Look up any assistance program on campus for courses that you may be struggling in. Those are a few things I would've told the younger Calvin.

Trisha

I'd tell myself to take more of my required classes early on rather than trying to mix them up with my core courses and to look for which classes can be substituted for required courses, there is some interesting stuff out there I wish I would have gotten into earlier on.

Gena

If I could go back and talk to my high school self, I would tell my self to start saving as soon as possible. You always hear people telling you about how expensive college will be, but they never tell you the amount. You get so excited when you fill out scholarship and grant applications waiting to get the "approved" message, but that day does not come. You have to start saving as soon as possible and ONLY touch the account for school purposes and gas. Another piece of advice would be to act now. I have suffered with medical illnesses for most of my teenage life, and I would usually let it control me. If I took better care of myself, I could be a lot farther in my studies than where I am now. You always hear good advice, but it takes certain circumstances to actually understand and benifit from them.

Lana

There are many things I could tell my high school self. As a senior, although I had good grades, I was never performing to my best standards. I was alway focused on sports and my social life more than my academics. I have had to work a full time job at a hospital for a year before going back to college in order to save up for a car to be able to drive to school. I would have told myself to save during high school to be able to afford a car in order to get my college life together faster. I also would have told myself to make sure to have all of you scholarships and grants in order before I graduated so that I would not have to use as much government loans to pay for college. I most certanly would have told myself to study more and focus less on my social life. Now that I have to work full time, I have no social life at all! I made many mistakes my senior year of high school and I am working extremely hard now in order to get my life set.

Sunil

it is awesome. teacher are very affable. I got lots of scholarship that made it affordable. teachers are very good.

Caleb

I have gained knowledge, people skills, organization skills, and now find it much easier to voice my own opinion. All this just after a short while of attending Southeastern University. This due to the student teacher ratio, the interaction with peers, and the overall curriculum used at Southeastern University. I would say they will make a man out of me by the time I graduate in 2014.

Malissa

I never really wanted to attend college, however once I completed my first year I was so impressed with what I had done that it made me want to continue on with my education. College has given me more than just knowledge, it has given me courage and life skills. I would like to win this scholarship because it would help me be able to get my bachelors degree in business management/entreprenuership.

Naomi

I have found that college offers you a wide variety of life's lessons. The first few years of college are like your starting all over again. You learn responsibilities, you learn work ethics, you get to make mistakes and learn along the way as you grow. This is the time where you get to test yourself, and prove to others what you are capable of. You get a feel for the real world and what to expect once you journey out into the world. You are on your way to being an independent person. There are many opportunities for a student to get involved in groups/organizations outside of class. The cultures that you get to experience in college opens your eyes to new possibilities. No two people are a like, and college is the best place for figuring this out. The experience that you get from college will last a life time. We all have something to get out of college. We look to the future for our success, and during college, we find ourselves and the thrill that drives that success.

Kimberlyn

I waited three years after high school to go to college because I was raising my son. My first class of my first semester was exciting, I've always loved school and learning. A new opportunity to go to school and making myself better was something I couldn't pass on. I also knew in a couple of years I would have to be encouraging my own child to go to college and tell him what it was like. I constantly can't wait until the next semester starts and to find out what the new classes hold for me and my future.

cheryl

I have learned the value of perseverance. I am an adult learner that has faced many challenges while attempting to complete my college degree. From raising a family; as well as financial challenges, I have been taking courses off-and-on since 1979. I came to this university as a licensed practical nurse; seeking a bachelors degree in nursing. I wasn't able to attend school full time, as the degree program demanded. I did some research; and found that a degree in health educatuion and promotion would open many doors for me-as well as present opportunities I'd never dreamed of. I was burned out in nursing, but found that the knowledge I already posessed caused me to excel in my classes in health education. I am nearing the end of my studies and am very excited, I have spoken to my advisors about attending graduate school. My professoes have been so helpful; as well as offering the guidancethat I'd never found at any of the other universities I'd attended, I wish that I'd come to Southeastern Louisiana University years ago. I am so glad that I persevered in my college experience.

mason

Yes, it is very improtant to attend college. I am an intern at Halliburton, and I can say if you don't at least have a 2 year degree you're not going to make any money in the real world.

Kaila

I am getting some of the best nursing experience that a student can get. Southeastern is very dedicated in this area and make sure that you know everything you need to know in order to become a successful nurse. I have learned to become dedicated and always finish a task on time. Also, I have become open minded to everyone and everything in this world because my way of living is not the only way of living. It has made me realize that everyone is different and we should accept that.

Nicole

I have learned many life skills, such as working with others, problem solving, and how to work in a professional environment. The people at this school are friendly and willing to help. There is always tutoring program somewhere on campus that is willing to help. I also feel that by attending this school I will be ready to face the world when I graduate. Being in the education department, I feel by the time I graduate I will be able to step in a classroom and feel at home. The department requires so many hours spent in schools observing and teaching before you can graduate, this is something I admire greatly about the university.

Erika

It was the beginning of the fall 2009 quarter and as I walked into the doors of Barber Hall I thought, "THis is going to determine the rest of my lifes future." It has only been four months and this has already turned out to be true. I have learned so much through my experience here at TVCC. First of all would have to be using my time wisely. With all of my homework and a part time job it is pretty challenging to keep a 4.0 gpa. But most importantly, I have learned to follow my heart and do what I want to do. I had started with an intent to major in nursing, but through my experiences in class and with other people, I started to realize that I am not made for this, and just because my parents want me to be a nurse doesn't mean I have to be. And finally I have learned to be happy in life, no matter what gets me down, whether it be bills or a hard assignment, I will never lose faith that I will succeed. And maybe with your help, I can change the world through art.

Lexi

I have learned many things although I have only been in college for approximately seven months. College is surely no joke, which I learned very quickly when entering. It is very important to do your work and not to procrastinate. As long as a college student stays on top of their work, they are very likely to be successful. These are the students that also have the most fun. If you stay ahead with your work you aren't so stressed out and can actually get some fun out of the whole college experience rather than procrastinating and cramming right before a test. Also, studying is no joke in college. I was not a big studier in highschool, but in order to succeed in college a few hours a week of studying and homework for each class is definitely required. I have enjoyed the past seven months and have caught on to the whole "college" thing very quickly. I'm glad to be here and can't wait to see what the future holds for me!

Emily

I have gotten a lot of valuable life lessons out of my college experience which have prepared me for this next chapter in life. I have learned to mangage my time and organize what my priorities are when it came to my studies. I have learned how to become more responsible for my actions and what it means to be held accountable. If i had the knowledge of how to apply these skills as a highschool senior, I know that I would have had better grades my freshmen year and I would have known the importance of making school a priority.

Samantha

I have gotten a sense of pride since I have begun attending Southeastern Louisiana University. Knowing that I am becoming a more respectable individual and that I am preparing myself for the future makes me motivated to go to school everyday. I enjoy waking up and wondering what new and exciting fact I will learn. SELU has changed my life, and I am so thankful that I have had the opportunity to attend such a great school.

Christopher

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior knowing what i know now about college life i would have plenty of advice to give. First I would start by telling myself to use all resources that are available, and will result in bettering myself as an individual. I now understand how essential it is to use every tool that i encounter. I would tell myself to set realistic goals and strive to achieve them. I would tell myself how important it is for myself to be ready to adopt new and harder study habbits, and how a couple nights of fun could jeopardize a life of accomplishments. It is easy to look back at past mistakes and think of what i could have done to change them. Truly though i can take those past mistakes and strive for a better future.

Carly

If I could meet the me of the past, I'd tell her three simple words: keep the faith. I've found that in college, people suffer from a general lack of faith--in themselves, in their relationships, in their decisions, in their world. People seem to be aimless during the first year of college, and that loss of vision of the future is what leads to easy mistakes that can make reaching goals even harder. I'd say, "Have faith that your path is being laid before you and that you are taking the right step. Until you feel that security, then don't decide; and as soon as you feel that security, hold on to it with both hands." If I had known that, then the little anxieties I had about choosing a college and fitting in once I got there may have been avoided. So now, I find that I tell myself to keep the faith with my new decisions and allow my path to fold out before me.

Denise

If I had the chance to talk to myself as a highschool senior I would probably just say relax. I look back now and remember worrying about getting accepted, trying to get my grades in order, and making last minute decisions. If I had the chance, I would have liked to do things differently. I wouldn't have taken so long to take the ACT before leaving highschool. I also would have taken it more than once. Thinking of all the scholarships I could have applied for and didn't, makes me realize that things probably would have been easier and less stressful to deal with. What mainly got me in my transition from highschool to college was how spaced out everyone is now. In highschool the friendships and the classes are a lot more personal. I would tell myself that it is infact a very large transition but it's manageable. I don't think I could ever give the right advice to prepare myself for college. Not many people are completely sure and prepared. If I went back in time I would tell myself to enjoy life, chase dreams, and just breathe because it's only the begininning.

Evelyn

If I could go back and tell myself somthing as a high school senior, I would tell myself to wake up your living in reality. Since I turned 18 my senior year in highschool and I was already living in college town, all I could focus my time was to parting. I made alot of bad decisions my senior year. I moved out of my parents house, I dropped my 3.9 GPA to a 3.4 within one school year, rearely attending school, and most of all joing the overpopulated group of teenage mothers. All of these decisions have affected my college life tremendously. I lost many of scholarships that where awaiting me, I passed highschool by the skin of my teeth, and now have a daughter that I am responsible to take care of on my own for my college life. Although I would go back in time and tell myself that I should not have done those things, I think they are the reasone for where I am today. I am a 4.0 GPA college student and mom and I could not be more thankful.

Janelle

If I could go back in time and talk to myself about college life, knowing what I know now, I would be very persistent with my advice. The first and most important piece of advice would be to take it slow. There will be enough time to figure out what it is that you want to do; the more pressure you feel, the the more you will want to quit. Take the time to really learn about yourself as you take courses that interest you. Go to class. When your teachers see you trying they will be more apt to help you when you need it. Communicate with your professors and your classmates. These are the people who can be your crutch at the most critical times. Set aside some time for yourself. Do not get so enveloped with school work that you forget to take care of yourself. And lastly, be smart with your money. Start a savings. If you do not need to spend money, then don't. You never know what obstacles will be thrown in your path. But mostly, remember that you are why you are in school. Make the very most of it. Good Luck!

jarrad

If i could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior knowing what I know now about college life, I would tell myself to get in the notion of studying a certain amount of hours each day. I would also tell myself to save up more money because intuition is continually rising as well as meal plans and the cost of dorms; and after knowing all of this information you should be very more than ready for the college life.

Kristen

Pace yourself. You don't have to say yes to everyone. It's ok to say no! Your time is YOUR time. The first year will be difficult, because you'll struggle with the balance of "work and play." Seek guidance from friends who've been there before, because they know what you're going through! And no matter what, if you try your best and make a few mistakes along the way, you'll survive!

cady

If i had to go back in time and let me know what the future. I would say they need to finish high school and then college. The first semsmter of college isnt the easiest becuase everything is new and you have to make yourself foucs and You can not rely on other people like you did in high school. The teacher at college dont care if hyou go or not. HIgh school teachers were the best beacuse they would baby you a lilttle more well when u hit college. they do not baby you at all. If you do not go to class. it does not hurt them it hurts you. THey do not call your mom or dad and say that u missed school. I would say enjoy your high school years and prepare your self for college.

Lucas

I would tell myself to relax your first semester in college, but the only way to do that is to take more advanced classes in high school. That way college isn't such a big leap for you. Being on your own can be stressful but as long as you surround yourself with the right people you are sure to do fine. Being with friends is very important but studying for your exam the next day is more important. Try not to let outside conflict interfere with your studying. So it is best to not get into fights with your girlfriend or bringing a television set into your dorm. All of these distractions will either end up earning you a lower grade or possibly failing you in the class. Most important is to not let peer pressure overrule you and your old nature. Just be your usual self and you will excel greatly.

Clara

Don't be fearful of this stage in your life. Just live it. All it is is the next step, like going from middle school to high school. A few thoughts: You have to learn when it's best to listen to your mind and when it's best to listen to your heart. Neither of them is bad; they are both a part of who you are. They're just different. Discovering is fun though, so have a blast! College is like life condensed. The semesters may seem to drag, but the years fly by. Don't waste this time. Managing your time is more critical than managing your money (which is very important). Take advantage of everything that crosses your path, and go after the things that may not necessarily come your way without your pursuit. Don't be a follower (in the bad sense). You are the main one who lives with your decisions when all is quiet at night and you lay down on your pillow. That's all college - and life for that matter - is: decisions. You won't always make the best one, but please don't dwell on that. I love you.

Bridget

To never get down on myself, do what I want to do and what I am comfortable with and never let anybody put me down. College is not that hard as every one says but do make sure to always study and try to not procrastanate. Apply to other schools as well as Southeatern. Try to not get overwhelmed with school and work. You will do great and be successful!!

Jennifer

As a college student, if I could go back in time to when I was a high school senior, the first thing I would say is to get involved! Being more involved with the community, school, and clubs give the information and knowledge needed to make decisions on what career path to choose. In order to be more prepared for college and "the real world" a student in high school should be aware of any opportunities to gain more knowledge of how to make the community a better place and maybe easier for those who are not as privelged. Working or volunteering in the community can help a high school student gain perspective on what they want out of life. Finding opportunities in the community such as part time jobs in what a student is interested in can help to get prepared for what they want to do upon graduation. If I could talk to myself as a high school senior, I would want to make sure that I knew all of my available options after high school and what are the things that interest me the most.

Kirsten

As a high school senior, I would have gotten out of the habit of procrastinating and learned how to manage my time more wisely. I would have better prepared myself for the financial side of college as well as the social awareness of what was going on. I wish I would have gotten out of my shell and tried, or experienced, more in order to meet more people and feel a bit more at ease in school.

Amber

I would tell myself that the first 'good' opinion that comes your ways may not be the right one for you. Look at every school possible. Do your research. Weigh all your opinions. And pick a school that is totally and completely right for you.

megan

Nothing really, just wish i would have started school during the summer i graduated from high school

Brittany

If I could go back in time to my senior year, there is a few things I would tell myself. First, I would tell myself to form new study habbits and be sure to always do the homework even if its not graded. Any extra homework helps tremendously in your understanding of the material. Another thing I would tell myself is get involved, but not too involved. Overloading yourself with activites only stresses you out more than you already are. I would probaly also tell myself to live closer to campus, commuting everyday has its pros and cons. And lastly, I would make sure to tell myself not to procrastinate, this also adds a lot of stress. I think these tips would have helped me a lot in my first semesters in college, and would be useful tips to all high school seniors.

Megan

I would tell myself to focus more on my studiesp; however, I did make good grades in high school I did not receive an ACT score high enough for a scholarship. I would also tell myself not to stress and to go to more football games. The advice I would give myself would also be to destress, talk to everyone and live my high school years to the fullest because when they are gone they are gone.

Holly

Have fun now but still put forth the effort for scholarships. Apply to more than one school even if you meet the requirements for your first choice, that way, more financial aid may be offered. The cost of living on your own while in college doesn't seem like that much but it's a lot after doing the math. The friends you make this year will be some of your best friends for life.

Kaylyn

If I could go back, I would tell myself to be completely focused my freshman year in college. I would also warn myself about all the stress involved in college but also remind myself that it's worth it in the end.

Monica

If I could go back in time, I would tell myself that it's not as hard as I think it'll be to go to college. It's well worth the trip, too, because of the different names and faces you meet. Everyone has a different background, including teachers. College is not a game though. To be successful in college you have to keep your mind on your goals. I have learned that you cannot count on friends to help pull grades up if they drop lower than they should have dropped. Also, it is great to have a social life, but when you lose focus of why you are here at school then you're wasting the hard earned money of your family, alumni, and even yourself. College is worth the experience even if you don't know what you want to be when you get here. As the days, months, and years pass on you will soon realize your purpose and you've got to put yourself out there to notice it. Organizations are worth it to invest your time in because you get out your stress, meet people, and even develop yourself in the process.

Courtney

College. It may be one of the most important decisions of your life. You will overthink every option, weight all the pros and cons, and you will still, somehow, always find yourself asking, "Did I make the right choice." I understand these feelings of confusion and dread. The best advice I could offer to someone who is in the process of making this critical choice, would be: RELAX. Congradulate yourself for making it this far and choosing to further your education. When I graduated highschool, my main concern was: "What do I do know?" I never thought to take a moment to enjoy the victory. So now it is your turn. After deciding where you should go, you should ask yourself: "Where do I WANT to be?" Staying close to home may seem like the ideal choice. It's where all your friends are going and you will be close to mom and dad, right? But did you ever wonder about the choice to explore your world? Think of the opportunities and people you will meet along your journey through colllege if you just gave yourself a little push to try something out of your comfort zone.

Tiffany

Think beyond the cost and go visit the school during the fall or spring.

Emily

Don't make yourself miserable. I have seen about half of my freshman class drop out because they hated the major they picked. Try out several things your first year. Don't choose nursing if you hate chemistry and biology. Also, don't drink your semester away. Again, I have seen many students fail out of school because they drank too much and didn't go to class.