Spring Arbor University Top Questions

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

Lance

get money for college now. Get involved and study your tail off.

Jeanette

At first I would tell myself to leave the boy I was dating back in high school. You two will break up and it truly will be for the better. To believe or not but I am going to competely change as a person. I'm going to be the person I never thought I would be back in high schoo. You'll ne regilious and closer to God. Trust me, it's something so magical that you won't even care how you felt about it before. It is something that is you'll be somewhat shamed you never did. Your life values are going to change. Many wonderful, amazying things, friends, and actvities are coming you way. So please do your best to stay ahead in school. Don't fall behind. Be careful with your classes they will get harder. Try not to fight with mom and dad, trust me they know what they are saying. You may not wan to aceept it but they will be right later. You'll probably hate that.

damon

that college matters in this day in age

Joshua

First off, I would tell myself to work a lot harder the last year of high school to make the college transition easier. I didnt have a counselor that would talk to me about scholarships for school or anything like that, therefore i never even applied for one until now. I would tell myself that once you make a decision of what you want to do, stick with it. Its not going to be easy, but switching and transfering over and over makes it even harder. Also that paying for school is going to be an issue for us because we dont get financial aid and the loans never cover the full amount. Save your money before a lot of it comes out of our own pocket. The last thing I would tell myself is to go to a four year college and stay there. Enjoy the college expierence, work hard, studies come first and to get involved more than i did. I really missed the college expierence train and if i could go back i really would make sure i was on that train!

Cheyenne

If i were to tell my "high school self" something I would tell myself to "keep perspective". Getting all caught up in drama and boys and stupid fights with parents is completely irrational. Remember to think, and ask yourself, is my actions and reactions irrational? Most of the time you overreact and its just because of the maturity level. Boys dont matter! neither do girls!! (the drama that comes along with them). Just concentrate on school and your sport.

Rochelle

I would tell myself to be more outgoing, and involved in student activities. It will help you be more confident and even do better in class. It is always nice to know someone in your class, because there are times when you will need someone to help you. Be a leader, because then people will want to be your partner. It isn't 'cool' to be a slacker, like it used to be in High School. And always give your studies the most attention, try not to get distracted by the partying. Just be yourself, people will like the real you, Rochelle.

Bryan

Knowing what i know now, I would tell myself not to slack off my freshman and sophomore year of high school. My GPA dropped the most during this time! Another thing I would tell myself it to go the library more often my freshman year of college to study because that is where more work gets done!

Jenee

I would tell myself to not be afraid of men, but rather fear God. I would tell myself to focus on knowing His love for me, and loving Him with all that I am. I would tell myself to stop doing pointless things, to stop wallowing in negative emotion, and instead to think logically, and to start following what my Author was telling me my story should be.

Alex

Coffee trees take four years to become fully grown, and are not ready to be harvested for their beans until the fifth year. It takes a long time to get the benefits of the planted tree. College is the same way Alex. Don't expect to get these life long, deep friendships immediately. They take time, rain, sun, stroms, and winds. They take years, but in the end they are worth it. It is also okay to grow into maturity. You don't need to have all of the answers, or any of the answers for that matter. Just dig your roots in somewhere and give it time. Be patient, joyful, and faithful. Be willing to have your ideas challenged, and objected to. Be humble during that time, and always seek to understand before you seek to be understood. Get ready for the best time of your life Alex, but don't expect it to be easy, or fun all of the time. It won't be easy, but it will be worth it. Have fun.

chelsea

Get Involved! Things may be tough, you may feel overwhelmed, but everything will be better with new friends to share it with. Never think you are above the average it is only going to make you feel lonely and frustrated. Always try your hardest because that's how you prove that you are above the average and it's too much of a pain to pay for college twice. Make sure the teachers know who you are. Save your money. Stay in and study on finals week it will the best descision of your life. But wait there's more, if you thought that the school year was crazy the summer will only be worse. Get a job, swim every day, and don't wait to call your father. Love, Chelsea P.s. I love you.

anna

If I were to go back in time the first thing that I would tell myself is to study harder. The second thing that I would tell myself, is to learn how to manage my time more wisely and how to prioritize it, because in the long run it really matters and it really shows in your studies, so put forth more effort in everything that you do.

Nathan

Make sure to stay organized and focused on your schoolwork and studies. In college most professors will not be as helpful as high school teachers.

kristeenah

Try and get to know more people. Please stay frim in your faith and not have other waiver you. Try to remember your glasses more often. Do NOT apply to SVSU, you could have just gotten a full ride to SAU.

Daisy

I would tell my self to FOCUS on the whole picture, not just the biggest thing. Getting to college is much more than having that "perfect GPA". You have to count ALL cost including books, personal items, and traveling expenses. I focused on the "paper budget" my tuition was paid, but I had to scrape for books due to lack of preparation.

Sherry

Focus on what you want to do, make sure you have use all resources to the fullest. Apply early to college s and have the desire to further your career. I would also suggest that one visits many different colleges. Also know about testing available and what scholarships are available. Prepare way in advance on how you are going to pay for college.

Kendra

Be ready to leave family and not have them calling you often to check on you. Know your dad will not call you to check on you at all, so you need to call him and tell him when you are leaving and what is new. Make sure and get involved with different groups on campus. Keep exercising and try to eat health! Stay on top of your homework and you will do great!

Sarai

I would tell myself not to get stressed over the small stuff. Life has been an incredible journey since high school, and the journey goes so fast. In this fast paced world, it is so important for me to pace myself and not worry about every little thing. I have always been an over-achiever, and worrying comes with the territory. Knowing what is important and focusing on those things has helped me to overcome so many different challenges that I have faced. There are always going to be little things pulling me left and right, and realizing that the smalls things sometimes just need to be let go is one of the greatest lessons that I've learned since high school.

Alison

Hey, self! How are your last few days of high school? Enjoy them while you can, because soon you'll be thrown into the crazy, hectic, beautiful world of college! College really does throw you into a whole new world - a world where you're part kid and part adult and learning how to balance the two. On one hand, a boat load of new adult-like responsibilities will be placed upon your shoulders. On the other hand, you'll still be doing a ton of figuring out who you are as a person and where you want to go from here. I'll be straight up with you - college is SCARY! There will be many times where you think you it's just too much for you. Too many decisions, too many deadlines, too many things to balance. But DON'T GIVE UP! Surround yourself with those who will love and encourage you, and give it your all. College is a scary ride, but remember - it's the ups and downs and twists and turns that make something an adventure.

Rebekah

As a senior in High School I had a good idea of what to expect as far as course work but I would still stress prioritizing studies and socializing even more! Spring Arbor University gives many opportunities to be apart of a great community but it's up to me to say "no" to certain extracurriculars. Study! Study! Study! Your social life will just come along with being a good student. Don't worry about making friends and fitting here because it's an automatic. Develope healthy habbits like organizing work so that it puts your mind at ease. Healthy habbits like this can help avoid stress load which is very important.

Audriana

The very first thing I would tell myself is that college is a chance for me to re-create who I am. Everyone goes into their first year at college looking to make friends. I would tell myself that now is the time to be whoever I want to be. Unlike high school students, college students are very accepting of everything and anyone. I would also tell myself to be outgoing! Your freshman year in college is the beginning of a new life and new friends. Lastly, I would tell myself to relax, meet as many people as I can, and take advantage of a higher education.

Karen

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to go to college and complete a degree. I didn't know what I wanted to do back then and I didn't finish. But at this point in life I have come to realize that A) Just finish and get a degree, even if just a general Bachelors of Liberal Arts or General Studies as you will definitely have opportunities for better paying jobs; and B) time goes by so fast that 4 or 5 years will fly by and anything else that you want to do will still be there. I would tell myself that finishing college may have given me a little more time to mature and maybe then be able to decide what I would like to do with my life. As a woman who went through a divorce and did not finish her education, I am starting at the bottom and working my way up!! If I had stayed in school, I wouldn't have so far to climb! I would tell myself to stay in school

Toria

Knowing the information that I know now about college life, if I was able to go back in time to give myself advice about college, it would mostly be about the tuition cost of the different colleges along with being able to get along with many different people in a new enviorment. I would tell my self to apply for asa many scholarship as possible to cut down on the tuition cost of the school because with today economy the tuition is going up, and every bit of a scholarship is going to help.

Holly

If I had the chance to give myself advice before graduating, I would tell myself to enjoy myself. My grades are very important, but not at the expence of my social life. Growth and independance will come with time. Your family loves you. You will make friends that will last a lifetime. Don't worry about not seeing your high school friends or the people that are mean to you. You will see the people that you want to see after high school. College will be a growing experience that will prepare you for life. College isn't easy, but it will be worth it. Continue to work past your dyslexia. Trust God. He will always have you in his hands. He has amazing plans for you.

naheel

If I could go back in time and talk to my self as a high school senior, I would have alot to say. To start off I will tell myself that I should have definitely paid more attention to school rather than worrying about being Miss. Popular. The reason why I say this is because paying better attention in class would have definitely prepared me to be better in college. I look back at it now and realize everything I learned in college was introduced to me in high school. I would have done so much better now if I just paid a little more attention. Another thing is managing my time, such as saving my money that I worked hard for and not spending it on silly things. Instead I could have used that money for important things such as expensive college bills. Unfortunately, what i have done in high school is the past and cannot be fixed, but what I can do for myself now is better myself and learn from my mistakes. This would have helped my transition to college.

Tiana

Dear High School Senior Self, After completing my first year of college I have some insight I'd like to share with you. First of all, working hard like you are is great, but when you trust in God to be your provider you don't have to stress out so much about doing everything on your own. If you make time for Him, he will provide you with time to complete everything you need to. Also, do not be invisible; be friendly, make friends, and make your mark. Get used to doing it now so that when you get to college you won't be so trapped in your timidness. Lastly, work on breaking bad habits now. If you can get better at waking up on your own without someone yelling at you, your roommate will be much more happy. If you can solidify your time management skills now, you'll save yourself a lot of stress during your first semester of college. Always leave a bit of time for rest and for fun to keep those stress levels down. Overall, just smile and be thankful for everything you have. Love, Your College Sophomore Self

Mariah

If I could go back and give myself some advice as a high school senior I would say apply for more scholarships to make the monetary situation easier. I also would say try to work on building a budget for yourself before you go to school. Money is important and spending wisely can help when you really need the money at a later date. I would also tell myself to do things without my parents helping me every step. When you get in college you wont have parents helping you at every step so you need to learn how to do things on your own. It is your life and your descicions actually effect how it will be played out in the years to come. Make good study habits. One of the best practices you can do is pay now play later. Fun is really fun once you have all of your work done. Work hard and you will see the benefits, not only in school but in work as well. Live life to the fullest and appreciate every day because you will never be able to go back to that particular moment in time.

Cody

Apply for more scholarships.

Ariel

I would tell myself to get involved more. Don't be so scared to get to know people outside of your own room. And, above all, don't procrastinate so much on papers. The more you wait, the more stress you bring on yourself. Be willing to do anything and EVERYTHING to succeed.

Paige

I would tell myself that grades are worth money. I did not understand the better grades you get the more scholarships your school will give you untill I was already graduated. This is a valuable lesson that every freshman needs to learn.

Brooke

I would tell myself to plan ahead. Be ready to set yourself on a schedule and keep track of due dates. Have your due dates posted somewhere in your room where you will see them. Enjoy your time with friends, that's good but don't push aside your homework to do it. Homework is important you have to get it done. If you don't your grades drop and then your in a worse situation than you were to start and cramming just makes that time with friends less enjoyable. Dorm room life is good but if you notice problems early on deal with them early on. Don't drag your feet because most often they don't improve they get worse and it's even harder to get out. You may feel bad getting out but sometimes it's necessary. Most of all enjoy every bit of college from the classes to the community you will gain memories that will last a life time and it's entirely worth it.

Jaycie

The advice I would give myself as a new high school senior is one, don't stress!! Things will eventually work themselvtes out, so just do all that you can, but don't try and rush things. Prayer is a big help when you are making such big decisions. Two, I would say do more college visits. Going and seeing the campus is really the only way to make a decision about which college is best. A website is nice, but it doesn't really help you narrow down your choices. Thirdly, I would say to get things done early! Make a list of deadlines, and get started way in advance. If you do this you won't miss any important due dates, and you will be sure to make yourself eligible for more scholarships and financial aid. The last thing is apply for as many scholarships as you can. Even if you are busy, make it a priority to get these applications in. Paying for college is expensive, and every extra money you can get is helpful. College seems like it is far away, but it is really closer than you think! Work hard, and everything will be alright!

Suzanne

When I was in high school, I looked forward to going to college and being away from home. I was nervous that I would miss my family and friends who went to community college, but I am overall very satisfied with my choice of going to a 4 year university away from home. If I could go back in time to my high school self I would say, "don't worry about leaving because college will be good for you and you will make new friends and learn a lot more about who you are by going to a university where you can live on campus." I hope I would be able to tell myself that the experiences that I have gained from living on my own have allowed me to grow as a person and become more tolerant of people who I had not had contact with in high school and would not have encountered had I not decided to go away to school.

Tori

I would tell myself to be more active on my studies and to be more involved with the student organizations. I would tell myself to take harder classes and push myself to the highest level and get myself ready for whats to come.

Camille

I would tell myself to be more focused and more dedicated to becoming the best individual I could be. Rather than worrying about the latest fashion or the latest trends I should realize that those things wont matter 30 years from now, but my education will.

Andrea

If I had the opportunity to travel back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, knowing what I know about college now I would choose to tell myself nothing other than to take chances and make the most out of every moment, treasuring both the good times and bad. As a college Senior, I have realized in four short years that I have grown not only in my accademic field, but more so in my personal life. I have discovered the person I am: a community member, an educator, a leader, funny, friendly, and I could list many more attributes. The reason why I would not give myself any other advice is because with every good time and with every bad experience, I have grown and have learned valuable lessons. Without the bad, there would be no good in my opinion. Taking chances is a scary thing, especially when your a college freshman trying out for the cheerleading squad for example, but without taking chances I would have never experienced the moments I will remember forever. In conclusion, I have no regrets of my college experience because I took chances and treasured every moment.

Rachel

As fun as school is, and as exciting as it is to be able to take classes that you finally care about, don't get distracted. Remember to take time to stop. If you try to do too much- academically or otherwise- you will get exhausted. Stay focused, and remember that you're here for the education in its entirety, not for the grade.

Zach

I would tell mysellf to take more college courses for free instead of taking those classes in college and paying money. Also, I would have applied for more scholarships and looked at more collges or universities outside of Michigan.

Hillary

At college, remember to work hard but don't forget to play hard. It is important to have a good balance between work and social life because you can't keep working if you don't stop to play and take time for yourself and your friends.

Megan

My advice to you is to take yourself seriously and realize that THIS is reality. As a first generation student, know that this will be a tricky ride, but it is NOT impossible. Get together with other students to do homework and study. Form good, healthy relationships will all sorts of people. Push yourself to get out of your comfort zone (academically, physically, socially, culturally, spiritually, etc.). Do not let the time go out the window. You only have four years at college so make the most of it. Do all that you can so that when you look back on these years, you'll be completely satisfied and have absolutely no regrets about missed opportunity. Go to class and be an active participant in your world.

Sharon

Prepare ahead of time. Consider what program you desire and compare college programs. Don't wait until its time to attend college. Preparation starts before you graduate from high school. Adult learning programs are also available at many colleges. Now may be the time you consider furthering your own education.

Michelle

If I could tell myself what I know now. I would tell myself "Yes I can." I would remind myself that even though I have a child, it is better for me to go to college now than it will be 15 years from now. I would tell myself to take a couple of day trips to the local community and four year colleges, to discover the hidden gem just waiting to polish me up. I would tell myself I need the education now to pay for my childrens education later. I would tell myself how hard it will be to go back to school 15 years and endless new technology later. I would also tell me self to relax and fun, make friends and maintain those friendships.

Jaryl

Never stop working hard. Always keep your eyes on the goal, and do your best to make it out as the best. Take the iniative and go the extra mile. Don't let standards set you back, but strive towards success. You may trip and fall - everyone does - but be sure you get back up and keep fighting to win. Lastly, never forget the debt and the gratitude you owe to the community and everyone around you. Do your best to return all the good done to you, and work for the community.

Andrea

I would tell myself to start working on making sure i do my best. Nothing is worse than settling and regretting it later on. College is what matters in the long run and just doing enough to get by is not enough at all. why get a B when you are capable of an A. i would also tell myself to not just do the homework actually try to commit the information to memory because it really does put you ahead of the game if you really tried in high school. Break bad habits in high school. Procrastination is not a college student’s best friend! Nothing is worse than rushing to get things done when it could have been done weeks ago. In high school it was easy to wait until the last minute but in college everything seems to be due around the same time. Midterms, finals are when the homework really gets heavy so be on top of your game and crush those bad habits now.

Marisol

At my university, Spring Arbor University, I am recieving a liberal arts education from a Christian perspective. Those who run this school have done an outstanding job at making it an inviting place that teaches students not only academic subjects in an incredibly effective way, but also teaches students about life in a way which cannot be ignored. Through seminars, specialty classes, and twice-weekly chapel built around the mission to enrich students, I have gotten a better understanding of myself in relation to others and to God. I have learned how to live in a healthy, happy, and effective way. Being a part of the community of learners at Spring Arbor University has given me instruction on life that I will regard highly and put to use for as long as I live. Not many people get THAT out of college!

Jennifer

I have gotten quite a bit out of my college experience. I didn't come to university straight out of high school so I have a different experience than most of the students on this campus. It is nice to be away from home, although I miss it so much sometimes; I have learned so much about myself while being away. I have to fend for myself and it's nice to know that I can survive without my parents right there. I think it's so valuable to attend becuase the community is absolutely amazing. Most people here truly care and will go out of their way to make sure you're okay. I have made some wonderful friendships that I know I will have for life!

Ivy

My college experience has been a whirlwind so far. In a place where I am expected to grow up and go out into the world in only 4 years, it seems like there would be a lot of pressure. Here though, the pressure is inviting and acceptable. I am confident that attending Spring Arbor University will prepare me to be a stronger, wiser and healthier person so that when I obtain my undergraduate’s degree, I will walk on with a clearer purpose and the ability to emanate integrity in my future job. I will walk into the future with that kind of confidence and determination because Spring Arbor University will have taken me on a journey of growing accustomed to successful relational, spiritual, and vocational life. I am on that transformative journey now and I am absolutely certain that I will continue to branch out and grow even after this one comes to a close. These vital years at Spring Arbor University are the roots that will cultivate the strength to branch out in the future and the purpose-driven journeys to come.

Chistina

College has been an incredible experience for me. I have lived in the same community my whole life and when I moved to college I only knew four people. It was such an opportunity for me to grow. I had picked a Christian University which was one of the best decisions of my life, it challenged me to grow in my faith. I was so nervous leaving my community at home, but I am so glad I did. The people at Spring Arbor are so loving and so welcoming. I, like many other college freshman, had my lonely moments, but everyone was there for each other and really showered me with love. This taught me how to go out of my comfort zone and love others. I have learned how to appreciate the people around me. A lot of my college experience has showed me that God's people are everywhere and we are all united in Him. It is a unique experience to have growth in God and in community through college, but I would not have gotten it anywhere else. I would not trade my experiences for anything else.

Nick

I have learned a great deal since entering college just under two years ago, and have learned first hand the value of a solid education. I entered Paradise Valley Community College, a confused, uncertain 18 year old. I will leave that school with a firm grasp of my future and the necessary knowledge needed to continue to achieve my goals. An education is one of the most valuable commodities this country has to offer, and I have learned not to take lightly just how extraordinary obtaining a college degree can be. By going to a two year school, I also learned the value in saving money, and being patient in accomplishing my goals. Instead of entering University of Arizona a deer in the headlights freshmen, I will instead enter a fully confident young man, with my two year Associate of Arts degree. I will also graduate from the Honors Program with PTK recommendations on my record as well. In just a short amount of time, college has taught me the value of my education, and giving me hope towards creating a better future for myself and others.

Jessica

This school has made me a better person. It brought me out of my deep depression, showed me that I can me a smart, integgligent women, and put some of the best people in my life. I have had more than my fair share of hard times, and as long as I can remember, I always let them get the better of me. Spring Arbor showed me a life where I could learn to let God help me through that, put good and caring friends in my life, and that I can go after my dream. I am currently working towards being the best teacher that I can be. Honestly, I look back and try to think about where I would be if I went to any other school. I probably would have failed out due to getting wasted and partying all the time, and would be at home living with my parents and (if I was lucky) working at a fast food place to get by. Spring Arbor has given me a chance, hope, and a drive that I didn't have before and wouldn't have without it. Spring Arbor has completely canged my life for good!!!!

Kristina

Being in college has been a wonderful learning experience. As a student, a person learns in the classroom about the world and the career he or she plans to pursue. However, some of the most important parts of a person's education happen outside the classroom. A student can learn so much more from the people they rub shoulders with everyday than he or she can in a classroom setting. My own experience at college has taught me to look at the world through different eyes. As a white, middle class female, I see situations in my life and the world as something which can be overcome with hard work. Through my college experience, I have learned that this is not the case for all people. College has exposed me to people of different ethnic groups and I have seen from their experiences there are problems in the world which cannot be fixed but still need to be fought. This is one major lesson I have gotten through my college experience. If I learn nothing else from my years of higher education, this lesson has made my college experience valuable because I see the world through a clearer lens.