Southern Nazarene University Top Questions

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

Kayla

If I was to give myself one word of advice to my high school self it would be to learn to study but not exhaust myself. I would tell myself to not worry about how hard of a class I can take but how much information I can obtain from one class. I was too focused on what classes I needed to take and how many I needed to take to be ahead of everyone else. I then lost the value of the classes I took. I didn't learn how to study diligently but study hastily. If I could offer any advice to a high schooler, especially those looking to succeed in college, is to know how to study properly and not look at school as a race they have to finish first at.

edgar

If I could go back In tIme, I would tell myself that I should fIll out my fafsa and apply for more school scholarshIps because school Is really expensIve. you need all the help you can get. The more you apply for scholarshIps, the better you wIll be to where you do .ot have to lay back loans after you graduate.

Christian

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself that college is what you make of it. It is ok to attend parties and other on campus activities as long as you balance it out evenly with studying and strong dedication to all class work. I would also tell myself that getting involved in on campus organizations is very important ad helpful to persuing a good college life. On campus organizations can help you network and get to know your fellow peers. Also, when it comes to applying for jobs later on in life, a long list of different organizations that you were apart of is a lot more impressing than no organiztion experience at all.

Madison

If I could go back in time and have a conversation with myself, as a high school senior, I would tell her to hit the books harder and practice better study habits. High school and college are completely different from each other, students are not required to study as hard for tests or classes, but college requires maximum effort in the study area. Deadlines on work are not pushed back very often and you have to make a habit of studying somewhere other than your room. I would tell her to limit the social time and increase the studying time. I would also encourage her to practice doing homework with several distracting events taking place around her so that she may be able to tune them out in college. Then I would tell her that she is going to do great and to stay focused on her goals no matter what happens she will make it through the ups and downs to come.

Ashley

I would definitely tell myself that I need to work extremely hard my senior year of high school. Your senior year is not the time to simply goof off because you are tired of school. It is very important to keep your grades up and end your high school days with a good GPA. I would also tell myself to take as many of my college general education classes during my high school years and take them from a junior college. It would be very cost effecient and also get me through college more quickly.

Kristi

If I could go back I would tell myself to stick up for me. The first semester of college was very hard. I am a very outgoing person so I ended up making a lot of acquantances and not many good close friends. So in turn I let somethings that I prided in go in order to make those close friends, thinking that friends were everything. If I could warn myself I would just say "all you need is God" simple as that. Although it's simple it's the most truth I've ever heard or seen. God does miraculous things in lives and I kind of let that thought of Him go when I got to college. Thinking that since I was at a Christian college I didn't need to work as hard to get that relationship with God. Little did I know, I needed to work harder. Thats what I wish I would've known last summer. God is the one and only true friend.

Austin

In my expeirence at college I have been to many different places. I first attended the University of Central Oklahoma where I joined Sigma Tau Gamma Fraternity and was very envolved on campus. Then transfered to Rose State College because of a internship at Tinker Air Force Base. I now am seeking to obtain a degree in Organizational Leadership with a minor in Religion at Southern Nazarene University because it is a government approved degree from that college for my career oportunities.

Laresa

When thinking of what I have gotten out of my undergraduate years, the obvious comes to mind. I have received knowledge necessary to my chosen career path. But when looking deeper, so much more has been taught to me. In the years since graduating from high school, I have learned a lot about myself. I am more independent than ever. I have taken on more responsibilities, and dealt in both accomplishment and consequence for it. I have changed many things from what I ?knew? to what I ?think? and many things I ?thought? I have come to ?know?. I think had I gone straight into the full time work force out of high school and bypassed college, I would not have made these advancements in my life in such large scale. While some of it can be chalked up to simply maturing from an 18 year old, a lot of it I owe to the college system.

Charles

My college experiance has been one of expanding my interests. I never realized that I may like classic literature or economics. I have also found my appreciation for learning, something I lacked in my youth. Over all I am going to use my college experiance to fullfill an unfullfilled dream of mine to work in the marine environment. I hopefully will serve as an insperation to my children to be the first in mune or my wife's family to complete college.

Micqueal

I have realized that in every profession there is someone that is passionate about it and they all work at Southern Nazarene University.

ENYA

DONT GIVE UP. THIS REFLECTS YOUR FUTURE. DONT SETTLE FOR LESS. GET MORE OUT OF LIFE.

Jill

I would give myself the advice of working harder in college my freshman year. When I started college, I was not serious about my classes or grades. I ended up with a pretty low GPA. Now that I am a non-traditional student, I am older and more mature. I am very serious about my grades and I have brought my GPA up to a 3.28, currently! I am very proud. However, I wish I would have been the kind of student then, that I am now. If I could go back and tell myself one thing, I would say, "Work hard now, and it will pay off later!"

Dorita

I would advise myself not to give up and study harder to obtain good grades to get scholarships to good colleges.

Shawn

First of all, do your very best in every thing you do. In high school and maybe even in college, you're going to take some classes and have to do some assignments that may seem absolutely pointless to you, but you still have to do your best. You will thank yourself later on in life. Have fun in high school because it will be some of the best times of your life; however, do not let this fun distract you from your studies. If you do let this happen, you will grately regret your decision 5-10 years later down the road, I can promise you that. Don't wait til December of your senior year of high school to start applying for colleges, that can come back to bite you. Once again, high school is not a joke, take it seriously. The work ethic you are developing now while you are in high school is the one that will stick with you for the rest of your life.

Bradley

I would take my academics more seriously my senior year. With applying to different colleges and scholarships, it was hard to stay focused on my school work. School came easy for me, though, and I made a 4.0 throughout my high school years. I regret not setting up better study habits then so I would not have ran into a few bumps in the road during the first half of my semester here in college. I'd definitely say that was the biggest thing I learned after this transition.

Ryan

I would tell myself to learn to study before arriving at college, because General Biology I was very difficult for me due to that lack in skill. I would congratulate myself for how hard I've worked up this point and how much it pays off in the future. I would also tell myself to relax and know that the entire experience is in God's hands. Knowing what I know now I would tell myself how stupid I was for always procrastinating and stressing at the last moment on homework assignments. There are experiences that I would want to warn myself about, but wouldn't because of the valuable lessons I learned from having to go through the consequences of my actions.

Hannah

Though my college career has not been as tumultuous as some, there are a few things I would like to tell myself in the prime of my high school career, senior year. I was at the top, finally comfortable to be myself, satisfied with the friends that had made it through with me to the end, and excited for what was ahead. I would tell myself three things. First, always be yourself. You may be going to a place where no one knows who you are, but that does not mean you do not show them your true self. Second, do not ever do anything out of fear. Go to lunch, even when you are afraid to sit alone. Contact that acquaintance on a Friday night; they could end up as your best friend. Finally, get involved in campus life. The best way to meet new friends is to attend or even help plan school activities. When you throw yourself into a situation, you are forced to meet new opportunities. Start off your college career with confidence; do not let your insecurties enslave you. You can and will make it through the first semester!

Matt

I would tell myself not to settle for anything less than a Bachelor's degree. Also I would tell myself that we and our wife should finish college before having kids.

Mark

I would tell myself to not take the year off and fill up my platter with activities. This would help me get use to juggling the college lifestyle. I would highly encourage myself to take concurrent enrollment to put myself a step ahead of the game when it comes to college. I would tell myself not to just get by in my senior classes but to push myself and strive to be as close to perfect in them subjects. I would also tell myself to realize college is serious and too have a different outlook on college going into it. I also would tell myself don't stress too much though because even when it seems there is no way your going to have your work done on time you always somehow pull it off. Last but not least I would tell myself to enjoy high school why I could and to not try to act grown but rather enjoy my time as a kid because in college you don't have time to be a kid. This is what I would tell myself to better prepare myself for the transition to college.

Rebecca

I would tell myself to stop freaking out. I was very afraid this time last year and now I know it was all for no reason. I was very stressed about what was to come when everything so far has turned out fine.

tabitha

"Tabitha have faith in yourself, to not see only the negatives in your life but the possitives. Smile at people and say hi, to not be shy and believe that you am better off alone. Go eat in the Commons instead of warming a can of spagettie Os in the microw wave." "But then i would have to eat alone, and I am only a freshman, I have no idea what is going on." "Yes, i know it is way out of your comfort zone, but you have learned from experiance that when you take a chance you can see how it changed you and made you a better person. And besides you are a brilliant girl, you will figure it out. Oh and you need to go to the games and outings more, those are where you can make friends and then you won't have to do this whole college thing on your own."

Cindy

To open up. It might seem like shallow advice, but my biggest problem this last semester has been dealing with a boyfriend i went into college with. We told each other we were committed, that we were serious. College is the time where people are trying to discover who they really are. It's tough to see people change sometimes. It's tough to see yourself change. But you have to keep this truth in mind. Give people a chance; give newness a chance. My biggest struggle was holding on to what I knew and was comfortable with for too long instead of enjoying and exploring the opportunity that was right infront of me. So it's what I'd tell to everyone about to make the transition. Calm down and let life happen. Don't settle too quickly, because you have your life to live ahead of you. College is a new world, a place to discover and to learn. Seize the opportunity. Open up to possibilities. I know it sounds cliche, but take the time to find yourself and find people.

Becky

The number one thing I would tell myself is that high school is easy. College is hard. Just becasue I didn't have to try in when I was a senior doesn't mean I can act the same in college. I would also tell myself to have fun. After my first semester in college I realized that I have not had much of a social life. I stay in my room watching T.V. all night. I need to get out and have some fun with my friends or at least spend my T.V. watching time studying. College is an adventure, don't spend all your time in your room becasue you're scared!

Erin

I recommend paying close attention to how helpful the staff is during the application process. If this process is difficult and unclear, that is a good indicator of your future years at the university. If they have to transfer you to a million different departments to answer your questions, get ready because you're going to be doing the run-around routine for the next four (or five haha) years. Also, don't be afraid to consider one college over another based on climate. If you hate the rain, do not go to a school in Seattle. You will be in a bad mood all the time. Who wants to be in a bad mood in college? One of the most helpful things I did in my search for my first university was look through a course catalog. This is a good indicator of what you will be learning. Lastly, check out their career statistics and feed-in's to graduate programs. If it is not a highly respected school among professionals, there is probably a reason for that and you should stay away (no matter how much fun you had at the frat party on your college visit).

David

When you are searching for a college, seek one that emphasizes building relationships with instructors and hands-on expirience at least as much as studying from the textbooks. A good working relationship with the professors of your college will help imensly in searching for a position after graduation and also for research and expirience as an undergraduate. Building relationships will do no good, however, if time is not taken to learn the necessary skills to make a carreer out of your degree. Be sure to keep up in your coursework and activly think and participate in learning, don't just soak up knowledge to be spit out on a test and forgotten. To do both of these well, you have to manage your time very carefully. Make yourself a study schedule for each semester and stick to it! I can't emphasize enough how hard it can be to say no to whatever it is that you'd rather do than study at times; if you don't have a schedule you can get buried in a pile of homework in a hurry. And have fun! Keep up a hobby or two if you can.

Kristen

Parents, let your child decide. Don't make your child go to your alma mater becuase it worked for you. Students, look at a few different colleges, make a smart, well-informed decision. Apply to more than one school. Talk to students on campus (not just the admissions counselors and student guides) and see what they think about the school. Your tour guide is specially picked because he/she loves the school. But it's the students around campus that you want to ask because they have pros and cons for you.

Matthew

Make sure that your child has fully considered all his/her choices; but, also make sure that you are allowing him/her to find the college and path in life that is best for him or her. When he/she makes their decision, support them and encourage them, but don't be overbearing. Girls may like to talk with their parents, but a boy often wants to become more independent. In the end, just make sure you love them, and things will work for the best.

Tiffany

Families need to consider the amount of money that is going to be required and the best place for the student to thrive. There has to be confidance and comfort within the student to be successful. Make sure and visit the campus of your choice before finishing all the paper work.

Joshua

Pick the school that is best for the individual not the pocket book.

Loren

Definitely start looking early. Sophmore year of high school open up discussions with Admissions counselors. Try to begin campus visits by your Junior year. Some schools offer more scholarship money if you apply as a Junior, since it implies a commitment.

Rachel

I think the most important advice I would give is to first do your VERY BEST to find and apply for any scholarships or grants that could possibly be given to you. This will help you base your decision less on whether or not you have sufficient funds, and more on where you could see yourself really fitting in. I would tell parents to be involved as much as possible to help their child find what they could to help keep them out of debt. But more than anything, do everything in your power to help them financially through school. It's a really tough time with many life adjustments taking place, and the best thing you can do is to just be there when they need you. If they can rely on you, they will have that much less to worry about while they are struggling through school. For the student, I would just suggest to do your best just to know what is going on around you; financially, politically, and academically. And last but not least, make this life-changing process a FUN process. Don't stress too much over the little things. Let God be in control.

Jessica

Students need to value their parents' opinions on finding the right college, but not go to a school just because the parents want them there. Parents need to be careful about pushing a particular school on a student. Even though they may feel it's right for their child, it may be exactly the opposite. Having the freedom to go where you want while valuing the opinion of your parents is hard, but essential for both the parents and the students to remain happy through the college experience. As far as making the most of the college experience, allow yourself to let loose and take the time to find out who you are and who you want to be. This may be one of the few times you are able to start with a fresh slate. Take advantage and be who you want to be. Parents, let the student find their way and make their own mistakes. You can't protect them and teach them "life." It's much better for us to figure it out ourselves - no matter how hard that may be for you to watch.

Michael

Dont limit yourselft to just one college find a couple that will meet your needs then narrow it down to the one. Get involved and stay involved. Try new things and dont worry what other people think.

Chris

Parents, PLEASE make sure you help your kids find scholarships before college! If you don't it will only come back to hurt you when they graduate and can't afford to live anywhere but home.

Jeremy

Make sure the student is actually comfortable with the school, not only what their parents want for them.

Courtland

The most important factor to discovering and deciding on the right college for you can be answered by the question "Is this somewhere where I can grow and become who I want to become". If that college can and will help you on your growth into that person you wish to become then by all means that is your college. Honestly the worst reason for picking a school is because your friends are there or you parents went there or the fact that it's Ivy league. Those are the worst types of reasons, you may just end up sending yourself down a road built for someone else. Make your own destiny and discover who you truly are and let that guide your decision. If your friends happen to go there or your parents went there too that's great, just know that you made your decision on a reason infinitly more sound. Now that you're at your new school it's time to get down and dirty. Go have fun, enjoy your time... but don't forget to study! Explore your world and discover what it's you were meant for. This is what college is about.

Stephanie

It is very important that one finds a school that they are comfortable in. One should be able to feel that school is their home away from home. Also, check to see how many and what kind of extra-curricular activities are available on campus. Arrange to make a campus visit to see how things are around campus on a day to day basis. It might also be beneficial to go to campus on a day that they are not doing sponsored school tours so you can see it on a regular day. Also, look at how far away the school is from home. The distance may cause the new student to become homesick and miss out on many of the opportunities available. One also needs to get involved in campus activities. College is a great time to find new friends and try new things.

Jessica

For the parents I would say help your kids. This is a big dicision, so when they come to you listen to everything they say. Do not force your desires on them, but help them find the school that is best for them. To the students I would say know what you want. Have an idea of what you are looking for in class styles, professors, and community life. Take the time to to visit the schools you are looking at. Meet the proffessors and students. Ask question and be honest.

Amanda

Decide what you want to do, then look at the major that corresponds, then look at those programs at the schools. Visit! Get to know the professors. Activities may look great. The campus may look awesome. The reviews may be fantastic, but the quality of the professors is most important. It has made a world of difference to me that my professors truly care.

Kelsey

Have an idea of a major, so you can choose the school that will most benefit your student's education and career options. Demand a list of EVERY class needed to graduate for their major and the schools requirement. This will allow you to save money and keep your student focused and on track, while also knowing what extra classes can be taken without interferring with the major.

Heidi

The first and most crucial piece of advice that I would give to future college students is one that I wish I would have taken more seriously myself: Give yourselves options and look at as many colleges as it takes to find the one you really click with! It does not matter how long it takes or how much effort you have to put in, in fact the more effort, the more sure you can be that you are doing the right thing. Know exactly what you are getting yourselves into before you begin college by researching, touring, and talking to staff, almni, and current students. Your college years will matter more than any previous schooling when it comes to impacting your future. When beginning college, I encourage students to remember one thing--to keep an open mind. Although at first it is very difficult, much of the purpose of college is to stretch, challenge, and purhaps even alter those views and convictions that you have for so long held so dear. Don't shut out the voices of the more experienced, instead welcome what they may have to say. Never forget that you only attend college once!

Emily

Live life to the fullest. College is a great season of life. Choosing a college is a unique decision. I don't believe there is really any wrong choice. I was having a tough time deciding between schools and I ultimately believe, the school will be what you make of it. What you choose to get out of it will determine your experience. It so important to embrace the community and really make yourself one with the other students and faculty. Having gone to a smaller, private school, you really get a feel for a supportive community, where not only can solid friendships develop, you also deveolop great relationships with professors. They not only care about your academic success but truly care about you as a person. My greatest piece of advice would be to live life to the fullest and really seek out those friendhips and continue to challenge yourself academically on whichever path life leads you!

Leslie

plan way ahead of time. Start financial aid planning far before you attend college.

Clint

GO TO CLASS!!!