Southern Adventist University Top Questions

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

Joey

I panic alot for some apparent reason so the first thing I would tell myself is not to stress any situation, just remain calm and do what I have to do. In college, I learned that majority of the problems I stress about becomes irrelevant within a month and everything comes back to normal. Another thing would be is to not to be a procrastinator and to work on my hard working ethics. If I had done that, college would be undoubtly a breeze and I would learn alot more than I do now.

Robert

Senior year, class of 2012. Ahead of Robert Moore is a road of ambitions, failures, and hope. He envisions a picture of his imminent college life, tarrying in the grasp of the future. He does not want to screw up what he can start over, so in preparation of his future, he searches for guidance on how to have a successful college experience. Well, in giving words of wisdom, I would respond by asserting that every opportunity God blesses you with in your pathway is meant for you to accept and not to be overlooked nor doubted. Some opportunities run along with time, and they do not return. Mistakes and imperfections will always come, but do not be discouraged nor intimidated by them, for trying is greater than not trying at all. Do not be ashamed for your belief in Jesus Christ. Everywhere His name is proclaimed boldly you minister to someone. No matter how discouraging the world will become, stand fast in your faith and on what you were taught. Not only stand fast in your faith, but practice your faith, for others will see and be inspired.

Brenda

Though patience is a virtue, never be afraid to set given boundaries; we deserve to be treated with dignity!

Timothy

Tim, I know you're having fun and enjoying youth. In a few years, you are going to be entrenched in college applications and career choices. Youth is something to be valued and cherished, hence you should continue to cultivate your adventurous spirit; for the freedom and liberation you observe now is to be soon over. Without slowing down and without abating your ambition, you should slowly transition your immense energy towards achieving academic merit. Stay sober, and continue to grow humble. Humility is something you should learn fast in order to truly understand what compassion is. Keep that figurative chip off of your shoulder and stay skeptical. Keep asking questions, and never give up your quest for discover what life really is. Above all, believe in yourself...albeit I said to stay humble, always know that through your passion for learning, you can do whatever you want. As Abraham Lincoln said, "time is a great thickener of things." Let yourself grow.

Ugonwa

Dear Amy,Make sure that you are an active participant in your high school and college community. It is important to have a voice and be a leader to those around you. Don’t let all the negative things that Dad says or does to you affect the beautiful, talented, and courageous person you are destined to become. Believe in yourself and in your ability to make a difference in your life and the lives of others. You can have the best life if you have a solid plan and have the belief that you deserve it. You do deserve it. Make sure to take some college classes during the summer. You’ll be grateful you did!

Brandon

Dear Brandon, In your journey into college do not make the simple mistake of not maximizing all the resources around you. If you do not spend time reasearching the degree plan YOU want to work for, buy textbooks online, apply for scholarships, review professors before taking them, and not being serious your freshman year...You are going to have a bad time. Make sure to create a logical schedule when you choose classes and always remember and don't change your major five times in a row. Sincerely, Brandon from the future... yes i changed my major in my mind so many times and wasted so much money so don't do that.

Christina

I would tell myself to get invovled in the programs at college when I had time. You meet many people that way and you feel a part of your college community. Also, if you feel that you are having a hard time understanding a subject don't hesitate to ask for help. Many colleges have great resources designed to help your excel during your learning journey.

Sharia

Going back to my high school years, I would remind myself that college is no joke. I'm currently struggling with financial aide and figuring out how to pay for school because in my high school senior mind, I didn't want to go to college, I would just go to a community college and work full time. I'd tell myself to skip the community college and go straight to a university, because it's a beautiful experience. College is a place where you develop yourself, who you are, without familial influences. You learn who you are, and who you want to become, and I think that if I knew all that earlier I'd be in a better position.

Luke

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, knowing what I know now about college life and making the transition, I would give myself advice regarding two specific topics: time management and learning technique. I would explain these topics as follows, “Time is one of few priceless resources that all living beings possess. However, simple possession of this resource does not, in and of itself, make an individual achieve their highest potential. Proper investment of time, on the other hand, will play a key role in a person’s success, especially in regard to its use in learning. I would describe learning as a four stages of process: First, categorize information as either a key concept or a supporting example. Second, mentally outline the basic structure of the concepts. Third, commit the concepts to long-term memory by making mental connections between the new information and other areas of the brain. Finally, find a way to put what was learned into practice. If these two concepts, time management and efficient learning technique are applied prudently, the transition between high school and college will most likely be an enjoyable step toward higher education."

Danna

Your number one priority is your education and getting a degree, everything else will fall into place. Do not let the obstacles that stand in your way, push you away from reaching your full potential, because life will always hand you difficulties. It is a matter of how you react to them and push forward that makes you stronger. I know the full potential you posses, so do not let the fear of a challenge diminish that potential.

Duvonne

Going back to my high senior year after completely my first year in college would be a great opportunity if it were possible. When my senior year came around I was in the mind set of "lets get it over with". Although I reached my goals second semester, I wished I had taken my high school years more seriously. If I worked at my fullest potential in high school my first year in college would have been a lot less stressful, especially financially. After completing my last semester in high school, I noticed that I was a lazy student and could have gotten those perfect grades that I saw my other classmates get. Its extremely true when people say hard work pays off. Now that I'm a college student I have vowed to myself to work at my highest potential in all my classes because it better late than never.

Kiara

I would tell myself to take more than 2 or 3 classes a semester; to take 5 classes a semester and FOCUS! Try and apply what I am learning into my everyday life instead of reading it for the test or whatever. When applying it to everyday I am able to remember the information a lot better. Also don't be one track minded about the schools I want to attened ot anything, just pray about it because it happens 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} better that way. Leave the fun or the weekend not during the week! Focus on school get everything done, so for the weekend I can sleep in and have as much fun as I want too. Another is a planner/schedule is your FRIEND! They help keep your life in order and I wont have to worry about what is due or what to do next. Added into that is schedules make sure to have time for yourself to just relax for that day for at least an hour, no studying passed 10 and go to bed early to feel well rested for the next day.

Kamoya

Past me, you’re very intelligent; use it to your advantage. Stay in the state you grew up in and go to a college of your choice there, it will be financially beneficial for you and your family. Make the most of your senior year academically, don’t settle for one score, and push yourself to the best you know you can achieve. In a couple years, you will lose your aunt closest to you, don’t let that deter from school. Keep pushing yourself and focus on your goals until you graduate. Remember, you can do anything, don’t be persuaded by the misguidance of others. You’re a fast learner and you can do anything you put your mind towards. If you say you’re going to do something, do it. The people who do best in this world are those who follow through, who figure out how to get things done. As Vince Lombardi said, “Leaders are made, they are not born. They are made by hard effort, which is the price which all of us must pay to achieve any goal that is worthwhile.”

jesse

Be as open minded and ready to learn as you possibly can. And keep in mind that when school starts you are also starting your career so it reflects how your career will be in the future.

Alyssa

If I could go back to talk to myself as a senior in high school, the most important thing I could say would be--"Live in the moment, because this is going to be over all too soon." I spent too much time being shy, when I was younger, to really get the most out of life. It carried into college, and while it has largely vanished now, I wish I could have told myself to let it go sooner. I would have told myself not to be so convinced that I could do a long distance relationship as a freshman; I would have said, hug Gampy every chance you possibly have. I'd have told myself that those Sunday morning omelette sessions with Annalisa would get me through Biology, so don't fret. I would have focused less on feeling guilty for playing instead of studying, and more on studying effectively. I would have been less serious and more playful. I would tell myself to ask for help, instead of feeling stupid. Exercise during Junior year. Ask Nathan out. Be bold--dare to be scandalous in that you are perfectly confident.

Jacquelyn

First and foremost, believe in yourself and know that you can achieve your goals. Never give up, even on the tough classes. Don't be afraid to ask for help and truly apply yourself. Don't let fear stop you. Keeping looking ahead and know that someday you will become the Marine Biologist you have dreamt about since the age of nine. Be true to yourself and don't get discouraged by others who can not see your dream. During trying times, difficult days, you can always turn to your friends and family that will support you one-hundred percent. As for the professors at school, they may seem intemidating because they will challenge you to do your best, but they do this to help you grow as a student and they truly believe that you will succeed. Professors will impact your life, changing you as a person, because you are able to discover your own strengths and weaknesses. Also, remeber to participate in class discussions, take good notes, study everyday, and you will complete every class you attempt. In a few years, you will graduate and make your dream a reality, so what are you waiting for?

Kathleen

Kathy, life is not all about grades. As important as it has always been to you, relationships with those around you should not be put on hold because of long, lonely study sessions. Get out there and make a name for yourself. Be exactly who you want to be, and reach out to those around you. Learn a lot during your time in college, intellecutally, spiritually, and sociallly. Make sure you understand your priorities, and your purpose in life. Don't forget how to laugh. Enjoy the company of those around you, and embrace every moment of life that God has given you. Realize that the "big deals" that you will encounter during the next few years, when put into the proper perspective, shrink to events that will someday be shrugged off at the thought. Don't take anything for granted. Appriciate the time you have at college, and don't ever dwell on negative thoughts of mistakes you have made. Put the past behind you, get out there, and start anew. Never forget who you are, stay true to yourself, and honor God in all things. Life is a gift. Enjoy!

paige

While in high school I should have taken college classes while going to high school. If I were to go back to college I would have picked a different major. I also would have gone to a community college first and taken all my core classes then transfered them to the four year collge I would go to. The smaller college offered smaller classes and more individulized help and instruction. Also going to a community college would have helped me see what other degrees were avaliable. When going to a four year college I would have choosen to have my own room in the dorms. I like my quiet to sleep and study. After my first year I would have moved out of the dorms found a place to stay so I did not have to deal with all the drama. I then would have asked more questions of my advisors and instructors about different studies that would be more progressiv in the job market. When I went to school internet was not an option, but it would have been great to see what was avaliable in the job market to decide my education.

Matheus

Unforgettable experiences of how if you work hard at what you want and if you persevere eventually, your hard work will pay off. It's been valuable to attend because of the great people you meet and the incredible adventures that it provides.

Alexis

My college experience has truly changed me. Learning to be independent and to make so many decisions on your own really ages you quickly. I have learned how to stay focused and what it takes to truly succeed in a class. I have learned that people you associate with eventually rub off on you, and influence the way you think and act. It has been valuable for me to attend because with my knowledge in nursing I plan to help others, reach the unreached, touch those living in third world countries. I am in my last year of nursing school for my bachelor's degree at a small Christian school in Chattanooga, Tennessee. My dream is to become a Nurse Practitioner prepared for the mission field ready and excited to face those who have never before received medical care. I hope to inspire them to better equip their villages and towns with medical tools and knowledge to become stable on their own. Through assisting them with necessities, I hope to reach them spiritually and share with them the good news of Jesus Christ and redemption.

Trevor

I have learned that the most group of people taken for granted are your family. In the real world, out of your home, no one really cares what you are going through or what you are experiencing. This fall i experienced my first birthday away from home. I was not shocked, not even suprised as a matter of fact, to not hear a single "Happy Birthday" throughout the whole day. When i checked my voicemail though, it was flooded by messages from my family giving me many birthday wishes. College has made me consider and see how valuable family is and that no matter what, they are the people who will be with you through everything.

Elizabeth

My college experience has helped me define who I am. This experience has opened up areas of study and allowed me explore ideas and goals that have never been presented to me before. At most colleges, if you say nursing, most advisors will just assume that you have made a great choice; this is not how it is done at Southern. They want to make sure that your education is the correct career choice for you, made by you by helping you define who you are and what you want out of life. I have changed my major and my life's direction for the better, because of my Southern experience. Attending Southern is the best investment that I have ever made in my life. No matter what, I am having the best time in my life. Yes, it is hard work and yes, I am stretching myself to accomplish my goals, but I love it. I came for a BSN and found myself called into social work. I love my experience at Southern! It has helped me define my life as I want to live it.

Elizabeth

My college experience has broadened my horizons- both professionally and personally. I am a better person in my community as I see value to contined learning and consider myself a life long learner regardless of my academic enrollment. The only legacy I can leave my children is threefold: a love for God and Country and education is fundamental to a sustainable earthly existence.

Enid

Take high School very seriously, its is extreamly important to graduate with the best gpa since this will help you make you life a lot easier in college. Be concern about what you want to be in life you don't want to spend the rest of you life practicing a career doing something you don't like. Make up you mind do you like and enjoy the rest of high school responsably.

Stephanie

If I was able to turn back time and talk to myself in highschool and tell me everything I know now I would better prepare myself for the stress. College is hard to get used to. I would tell myself that I need to better perfect my time management and make a schedule for my life. I would also tell myself to prepare a better budget and look for work vigorously. There are many little details that you just do not think about when you are choosing a college.

Michael

When I look back at my personality while I was in high school, I wish I could have been different. Throughout my whole life making above average grades was a piece of cake, but I never challenged myself. I wished I didn't drop out of my college courses, in order to make my life easier. I wish I also took my ACT more times, not just as many times as it took to get the scholarship I wanted. My GPA was above a 3.8 during high school, but I would have had a 4.0 if I have only challenged myself. I am disappointed with myself for not challenging myself. I want to challenge myself not for recognition from others, but for making myself feel better, and also for thanking God for the abilities He has blessed me with. I wish I was able to gain better study habits in high school also. I also wish I had a better sleeping pattern throughout high school. Through all of my short comings in high school, I am glad I have developed myself into someone who challenges himself, and who has also developed a healthy scholastic lifestyle.

Janelle

I would advise myself to wait, like I have done, to enroll at SAU. I have been able to experience the world and people and experiences that I would not have been blessed if I would have gone straight to University. At an older age, I take my education more seriously and appreciate the hard work and effort going into a 3.8 GPA as well as the financial commitment. I would advise to live and experience, as I have done, and then pursue education when I am at a more serious and responsible phase of my life.

Liza

Two words. Time Management. Making sure that I know how to manage my time studying for classes is very important. Don't skip classes because even though there is no one telling you to get up, if you skip, your grades will suffer and you can't afford that. Getting enough sleep is also a big factor that will help me in college. Never underestimate any class even if it seems easy. Set your alarm for every test you have so you don't miss any. When you fall down, the most important thing is to pull yourself back up again and keep on going. No matter how discouraging life can be sometimes, it's only going to make you stronger when you pull through those times. Last but not least, always know that God is there for you.

Alexis

Be sure to give yourself down time and don't get too involved in everything. That "self" time is just as important as service to the school and community.

Janice-Raye

If I could go back in time and talk to myself I would say "Jan, continue what your doing with your life: staying focused on God, your school work, and success. Don't forget to take time out to socialize and make at least one new friend everyday. Build a network with these people as they are the people of the future. Also don't forget to do your research! Find internship possiblities from early, look for long term job possiblities, and work toward that goal because you'll be graduating before you know it and you'll be happier if you're prepared. Keep up the good work and don't let your success get to you're head because it is then you will fail."

Casandria

Think hard about what you want to do with your life. You're about to go to college, and college is a lot more serious than High School. It's good to know what you're doing, and the sooner you decide on your major the better off you'll be. Try this: Imagine that your life is paid for. Your house, your clothes, your car, your entertainment, everything is taken care of. You're not super rich, but you are comfortable and content. What one career could you see yourself choosing to work in for the rest of your life, and never EVER get paid? What would you do simply for the enjoyment of it? That is where your major should take you. Confucius said, "Find a job you love and you will never have to work a day in your life." That's not to say you won't work hard, it's just that it won't seem like work because you enjoy it so much. So, be prepared to work hard and be willing to accept constructive criticism. Be willing to love what you do, and be prepared to do what you love.

Kyle

I felt like I went into the college experience blind, not knowing what to expect. My first year, however, I learned so many things. I recommend to everyone that they first find a college equipped to make them a professional in their field of study. Second, it is necessary to find a college that is in a location that works for you. Whether a student who needs to live close to home or a student who just wants to get away, it is so important to be in an enviroment where one can feel comfortable and grow to be the person they want to be. College is meant to be exciting; full of risks and the unknown. Embrace the sense of adventure that comes with going off to college. Embrace the fear, the nerves, and the anxiety. It is all of these things that help one grow and succeed. Whatever you choose, choose something different. Volunteer, get involved, and live it up! Give yourself room to learn, explore, and blossom into the wonderful human being you long to be. Set your face, and don't stop running until you reach the finish line.

Candace

First, I would say to pray. Pray about your life goals. Pray about where you want to see yourself in ten, twenty years. Second, I would say visit as many potential schools as possible. Sit in on classes. Stay in the dorms. Talk with students and professors in the department you was looking into. Visiting and getting a feel for a school as well as knowing students and faculty's views of life on campus will be very helpful when making a final decision. Once you are in college, join extra-curricular activities that you think you can balance with your school work. That way, not only would you be getting to know the students in you classes, but students in other majors than you that have the same past time interests as you. You will have friends all over campus! And if you want to have a great relationship with your professors, talk to them. They like to know their students outside of the classroom. And when recomendations start to happen, it will be easier for them to write good things about you. And of course study a lot! You have to pass your classes to stay in college.

K.

Look around and do not settle because you don't think you can find anything better. Find something you like and students, listening to your parents advice is important, but focus on your own dreams! Do your homework and participate in class, as well as extracurricular activities. Get to know your professors and make the best of every situation! Keep a positive attitude and try your best!

Jasmine

I would strongly encourage both parents and students to physcially visit the univeristy or college that they are contemplating attending. It is vital to see the environment that they will be learning and living in. Some schools look great on paper and on the website but until you set foot onto the campus there is no sure way of knowing if you will be comfortable there. It is also important to make sure that the school you choose to attend has the best education possible in the area of study that you wish to recieve. The college experience can be difficult but choosing a school with an excellent education system as well as a social network is the recipe for success.

Renwick

Do not select just any school that has the degree you wish to study in. Take time to look at the number of people who graduate per year. Also take time to find out what type of people attend the school. You want a school that is friendly and helpful. You will need a school that has a good counseling system for when you feel down and out. To make the most of your school life, don't sweat the small stuff. Give class all that you've got, then be satisfied with the outcome. Don't belittle yourself over every single mistake that you will make. Call home and talk to your family weekly. The most important thing for you to do in order to make your college life experience the best; find some good dependable friends and stick with them. You need people like them to talk to and have fun with. Never give up no matter how things may turn out.

Janelle

Choosing a college is as easy or difficult as you make it. It is important to define what exactly you are looking for before beginning your search. When you have decided on a field of study, a price range, a student population, a guy:girl ratio, whether or not you want to live on-campus, where in the country you want it to be, and whether or not you want a particular religious affiliation, you will probably have narrowed the options down to just a few choices. Try to talk with students at or alumni of the colleges you are interested in; meet the professors you might be working with; visit the campuses. It is much easier to start at the right college than to try to transfer once you've begun a program. Listen to people and consider all your options; decide what aspects of college life are most important to you and find a college that matches it. As important as the location of a college is, however, a good college experience depends mostly on you. You will get out of your college what you are looking for; your grades and your friends will reflect your efforts.

Andhere

My advice would be that they make sure that the school they are thinking on going to provides a balanced education. It is a good idea to go and visit the campus, and see how is like to study there. It is good to look at the differnt clubs the school have and get involve in some of them not all of them. Participating in community service is great and a wonderfull oppotunuty to meet new friends.

Mathuel

Pray.

Sarah

My advice it to prepare ahead of time, know your options, balance you life, and stick with it. I think that one of the biggest mistakes that students make is the failure to look towards college while they are in high school. Many students would have an easier time in college if they had prepared by getting good grade, working on scholarships, saving for college, and getting to know what jobs are out there. Get out there shadow people, know what jobs are available and what type of jobs you want to do and would be good at. Then get to know the colleges that offer the degrees that will get you where you want to go. Look at all the aspects of the different schools. Once you are in college it becomes a balancing act. You have to learn to balance your academics, work, social life, health, and whatever other responsibilities you may have. Once you are on the road you want to be on do not give up even if you have to take some time go back and finish what you started. And finally give back to your community.

david

make sure u study hard to make good grades, and dont forget about your social life, so attend to many of the extracirricular activites.

Theodore

Always pick a college becuase of the academic programs they offer, not the social things. In the end when you graduate you are going to be hired by your skills in a certain area, not how many concerts or parties you have attended.

Natalie

Make sure the student knows exactly what he/she wants or what the school offers so he/she can choose. I know many people who just come to college not knowing what they want or what their choices are and they just burn out pretty quickly or pick and choose a different major every semester. Also, if you are spiritual, make sure you do all you can to maintain that spirituality. Believing in God and trusting in Him will get you through pretty much everything.

Logan

It doesn't matter what college or university you go to, you are going to find what you are looking for. Be active in you college experience, so you get what you pay for.