St John’s University-New York Top Questions

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

George

If I can go back in time and see myself as a highschool senior, I woul tell him that you make sure that the first thing in your mind is the work that you are going to do in college. I would tell him that he should not be worried because I am doing well in college. As a person I sometimes get really nervous about things. I would tell him do not worry because as long you take the class seriously you will be fine. There would be advise about diversity and different ways of thinking. Respect is very important and I think you should treat everybody with respect no matter where he or she is from. Me as a senior should be aware of diversity because in like people will always have to interact with different people. In college I do respect other people. That is all I would tell him.

Florence

I would tell myself to focus mainly on improving my SAT score and worry less about average. I would also tell myself to start researching on colleges during early senior year or during the end of my junior year. During my actual senior year, I rushed through my applications. Also I would tell myself to fill out all the scholarships offered to me by colleges that had accepted me. I made a change last minute on the college I choosed to go, and still regreted it. Tuition came smacking behind my head afterwards, and emptied my piggy bank I have been saving nearly my entire life. Also remember to fill out fasfa and tap as soon as possible. I had no idea that I did not fill out TAP and it gave me a headache on my first semester of college.

Bhiravi

If I could go back in time to my senior year in high school I would not want to change anything I had done when applying to colleges. During my senior year in high school I decided to pursue my dreams by putting my major as psychology on all of my college applications. I decided that I would fulfill my own dreams, not everyone else?s dreams. I wanted to become a psychologist; however my parents wanted me to become pediatrician. As a senior in high school, I had told myself that I would follow my dreams and I am glad that I did just that. For all those seniors in high school I would just like to tell them to follow their dreams to reach their ultimate goals in life.

Yanel

If i could back in time a will tell myself to write more beacuse the essays are hard and long. To be in college you need to know how write well because for all if not most classes you need to write essays wether the class has to do with writting or not. I would also tell myself to get used to staying up late because i college you stay to study, do work, or write essays. So it is hard to get a good night sleep or even sleepp at all.

Danielle

If I could go back to my high school self and tell her something I know now about college, it would be to get involved early. It took me until second semester of my first year to really get involved into organizations that have helped me create lasting friendships. It has also given me experience that could be used in real life, as well as in my future.

Adam

I would tell myself that i need to get ahead of the game, and to go and apply for as many scholarships as you can, and finish A+. Because something bad is going to happen and the army wont accept you, and that i would have to work a year so i can get some money for college and rent and you wouldnt like working a walmart. But its a job so all and all you will make it, it will just be very stressful and you will have to work hard. Just remember not to slack off and remember that things change in drastic measures even when you don't want them to!

Fabiola

If i was able to go back in time and give the "high school senior me" some advice, it would be to stay true to yourself. College definately introduces you to many different cultures and personalities and it would be very easy to lose yourself in all of the diversity. At the same time trying fit in socially and keep up academically is another struggle. Knowing who you are and what you like/don't like will make for a very positive college experience. You will be able to learn new things in addition to what you already know, rather than trying to become someone you're not. I'd also tell "high school me" to stay more focused on academics than friends. Overall, my advice is to know who you are and what you're there for. Don't let anyone/anything sway or distract you.

Richard

If I were to go back in time , knowing what I know today things would be a lot different. I would have entered freshman year with a completely different mindset. Some advice I would give myself would be simple. Be open to every possibility you come across. Meet as many people and you can and become involved in as many extra-curricular activities as you can. In today's society it's all about who you know and what kinds of impressions and connections you have made. Also I would have advised myself to get into a routine. That is the easiest way to stay on top of your school work and be successful in anything you do in life. Make time for everything: Class, Studying/homework, friends, gym, work etc. Most importantly though I would say just have fun. College is supposed to be the best four years of your life so you might as well do everything you possibly can, have the best time doing it and come out successful. Before you know it, it will be time to graduate and go out into the professional world. Will you be ready?

sugundia

If I could return to my senior year in high school to give myself advise about the college experience, my main piece of advise would be: ? what use to work for me in high school won?t in a college environment driven by a higher institution of learning and growing. There will be times when you cry out in frustration as you try and balance work, school, and a social life. You will experience lots of all nighters, cram sessions and study parties, but in doing so, you'll meet amazing people from all corners of the world whom you relate to universally. College is exciting, fun and open to all forms of interpretation, its also can be scary and, uncertain if you don't step outside of you?re comfort zone long enough to experience it form another angle. Iife isn?t only about being successful, and school isn?t all about getting good grades. The biggest advise I could give my high school self is: school is of the utmost importance but, do not bury yourself under books. Go out to parties, join a few clubs and enjoy being a college freshmen, the opportunity only comes once.

Yan

I would tell myself to simply pick a college that specialize in my major and have very good job placements in my field. That is really the main reason why we attend college. We attend college to prepare us for a job in the real world.

Larry

Any advice in this scenario would be due to regrets of mistakes made. If I were to be able to travel back in time to give myself advice, my advice will be heavily motivated by my current financial situation (as I suspect most responses you will be receiving in this survey will be). I half want to answer, "give my high school self the knowledge of this means of time travel" so that I'd be the first to patent this technology and thus eliminate my financial troubles. Realisticly, there are two main things I would like to force my past self to be aware of. The first would be to not falter from my work ethic. College classes are deceptively harder than my specialized science high school classes. Falling behind is guaranteeing my current situation of being .02 points away from losing all of my financial aid (which already only covers the smaller half). My second advice would be to purchase stock from rite aid when it was literally almost a 1/10th of what it is currently. I cant decide which I regret more.

Brittany

Beware, beware, beware for college is coming up! There is temptation lurking from every resident hall, so remain focused and do not, I repeat do not get involved in the drama. There are a couple of things that I want you to know that you should watch out for. A social life is important, but I would strongly suggest you hang around people who are focused just like you. Don't get lazy and get into the habit of missing classes. No one is there waking you up to go, unless you have really good roomates, but other than that you are responsable for you. Stay on top of your work, and leave nothing for the last minute. Try your best! Not everyone will get A's all the time. All that matters is if you've tried your very best. Get into the habbit of studying and learn how to balance your time early. Most importantly have fun! College is a learning experience so absorb all the information you can, make all of the healthy friends you can, and get involved in some sort of activity, becaue it makes getting to know people easier.

Christopher

Chris, My advice to you: don't waste time! I know the circumstances at graduation where difficult and a little confusing but looking back it seems a poor excuse for waiting. The longer you wait to pursue your goals and actualize your potential the more you will feel the need to make up for lost time. Your abilities where never in question and your intelligence has always been hungry for the novelty of learning. Waiting for the right moment just leaves you feeling left behind as your mind feels increasingly stagnant. I am realizing now that the right moment may never happen to cross my path. Only after acting and making an effort to advance myself do I see my life going anywhere promising. I am responsible for my own life and I am the one in control of my own destiny. So why waste any more time? Seize the day!

charity

My advice to myself would be, keep your head up and dont get wrapped up in any kind of trouble. If you have sex make sure you use some kind protection to prevent any unwanted children. Stay in school and dont get yourself into any major relationships. The most important thing I would tell meself is that no one can make you happy but yourself. Now go have fun with your life and love yourself.

Hannah

College is a big decision. I know that you are scared and think that this decision is too big for you to make, but you need to trust in God and trust in yourself. You will end up where you're meant to be. Things happen for a reason. Going away to college, especially a thousand miles away from your family, is going to be hard. Sometimes you'll be so caught up in your life in New York that you won't realize how much you miss everyone you left back home in Florida. Other times, your heart will be so heavy and full of sorrow that you'll cry yourself to sleep and wonder why you left in the first place. One day you may feel complete with the friends you surround yourself with and the next day you may feel like you have no friends. I know it's easy to only hang out with your roommate because it's convenient and easy, but branch out and meet other people. You will find someone that you really connect with. Make sure you take a break from all that studying too. And don't forget to call home.

Casey

I would tell myself that I should study hard, to use all resources find a job and that money is an issue.

Jarlin

Jarlin, get more involved! Instead of rushing to work after school, try to work out a new schedule with your boss. Volunteering is a great way to become more outgoing, make new friends, build your resume and most importantly help your community. In college having a positive and outgoing attitude will make your high school to college transition much easier. You will feel more comfortable and feel like you belong. In addition, finding the right organizations/clubs will help you narrow your decision as to what you want to study in college. You will find what you enjoy and feel most comfortable with. I guarantee this while make your transition as smooth as possible. If you want to join something, go for it! You have little confidence and wish to change that, well this will definitely help. Do not act like the mouse and run away as soon as the light is turned on, become the hawk that never misses an opportunity. Get involved!

Leanne

Looking back on my college experience, there were a few things that I would have done differently. If I were giving myself advice based on what I know now first, I would tell myself to enjoy my college experience as much as possible. As an undergraduate, I consumed myself with the result (graduation) rather than the college journey and, I never entirely experienced what my school had to offer; it still is one of my biggest regrets regarding my undergraduate years at St. John's. Although graduating from St. John's University is a great accomplishment, I feel like I gypped myself by not participating in any of the offered school activities. Second, I would tell myself to get to know my professors better; they are not your enemy but, your biggest ally. Professors have all sorts of connections into the outside world which can lead to an internship, be used as a reference when applying for a job, or even job placement. The best advice that I'd give myself would be this: "You're only young once. Live life to the fullest and experience all that you can because it will all be over before you know it!"

Jessica

Time is precious. You dont have time to waste and you surely dont have time to mess up. Dont sit around thinking I have time. Get up and do it now. Keep your grades up and dont let others influence you. Freshman year is a tough year and you have to stay on top of everything.

Teena

I would search for schools that had a solid mentoring program and a good support system for freshman year students. I would also search out programs in which faculty were more involved and where class sizes were small enough to permit more individualized attention.

Nadezhda

Work hard and stick to it, you can't imagne what you'll get done!!!

Yolanda

I would tell myself to pass the classes. Also to go straight to college. It would be better than getting married and having a baby. Because all of that puts your life on hold and you have to take care of your son. Also that I should try and get a good job and then plan my future. Make the best of my young years. try not to rush into married life. And do the best that i could do in everything.

Maria

The only advice I would give myself is to make sre I enjoy what I do. Make sure to take classes and participate in activities I enjoy doing and not do things because I think it will help me in the future. At times the things you think will help you the most, do not help you at all. The most important part of college is to have fun while gaining a great education.

Andrew

To keep a more open mind, and not to rely on the influence of other people to interact and make friends. I am my own greatest motivator, and should take that at great lengths.

mario

Stay in school, keep focused and go straight to college so I can graduate and begin my career.

Katrina

Firstly, I would have to prepare myself for the work load. As an art major, you get used to choosing between eating that day, or sleeping. You can't do both. I have multiple classes that are 3 hrs long and meet twice a week. It's extremely important to be well organized and stay focused. I'd tell myself to get a small planner and get used to writing things down in it. Procrastination has to be the worst possible thing you could do to yourself. Unless you're Chuck Norris and never cave under pressure, it will come back to bite you in the butt. It's good to get a jumpstart on projects and assignments so that you can complete them to the best of your ability. My parents and I are making a lot of sacrifices so that I can become well educated and I can't let them down. Most importantly, I can't let myself down. I wouldn't want to go back and scare or discourage myself , but these couple of tips probably would have helped me do just a little bit better.

Tiana

I would tell myself to be aware of the friends you make. That if I wasn't happy with the choice of schooling to review other options before getting so far along in my college career. Lastly, I probably would sit down with myself and try and persuade me to seriously consider community college since I was not fully decided about my major for the purposes of money.

patricia

never quit

Shannon

Expect nothing, allow everything to be new and exciting. Have fun, but always remember wat you came to school for.

Christopher

No matter what, stay true to yourself and what you want to do with yourself in life. No matter what people may tell you or what influences surround you, you will never be able to truly succeed and be happy if you don't love what you do.

Diona

nothing

Patrick

Let the student make their own choices. I am sure that parents have the ideal choice for their children, but inevitably it is the student's choice on what they want to do with their lives.

Kristy

Make sure you visit the campus, attend a class, eat in their cafeteria and attend any extracurricular activity possible.

TENISHA

THE NUMBER ONE GOAL IS FOR A PARENT TO FIRST TALK TO THEIR CHILD AND SEE IF COLLEGE IS THE BEST OPTION FOR THEM. SOME PARENTS DON'T GET INVOLVED IN THEIR CHILDRENS DECISION TO FURTHER THEIR EDUCATION AND THAT IS SOMETIMES WHAT MAKES THE ADJUSTING STAGE FROM HIGH SCHOOL TO COLLEGE HARD FOR SOME STUDENTS. I DIDN'T HAVE THE COLLEGE TALK WITH MY MOTHER WHICH WAS VERY MUCH NEEDED BEING THAT I AM THE FIRST IN MY FAMILY TO EVER COME THIS FAR IN LIFE BY ATTENDING COLLEGE AND GRADUATING SOON. A PARENT SHOULD ALSO BE A HELPING HAND IN THE DECISION MAKING PROCESS WHEN IT IS TIME TO SELECT A COLLEGE, ESPECIALLY WITH THE FINANCIAL ASPECT OF IT ALL. PAYING FOR COLLEGE IN THIS ECONOMY IS NOT EASY AND MANY STUDENTS MAY ATTEND A SCHOOL WHICH IN THE LONG RUN THEY CAN NOT AFFORD AND THIS LEAVE MANY STUDENTS AT A DISADVANTAGE. PICKING THE RIGHT COLLEGE SHOULD BE SOMETHING THAT MAKES THE STUDENT HAPPY, NOT EVERYTHING IN LIFE CAN BE TO MAKE YOUR PARENTS HAPPY. SOME THINGS JUST HAVE TO BE DONE TO HELP THE STUDENT PROGRESS AND THAT MAY MEAN A SCHOOL YOU BOTH DONT AGREE

Julie

I would tell them to decide what elements of a college are extremely important to making your decision, and what aren't. If the religious/political atmosphere of a college is important, make sure you find a school that matches you on those elements. Other important things to considers are class size, location, majors/minors offered, and things like that. The fact that a school is prestigious or well-known does not necessarily make it the best college for you. Know what you want- and, just as importantly, what you don't want- and try and find the best match for you. As for making the most of the college experience, it is important to be open to new things and to consider all options. Being involved in extracurriculars is a great way to not only meet people on campus (which will enrich your college experience), but to relax and enjoy aspects of the campus other than the academics. However, don't feel pressured to join an organization you have no real interest in. Also, explore the area around your college. Cultivating local knowledge will help your college campus feel more like home, and provide great opportunities for new experiences.

Aliya

When looking for the right college, keep in mind exactly what you wish to receive from advancing your education. After you have narrowed down your list based on the common factors, like proximity, size and financial aid, make it a point to visit your top picks. When you do visit, picture yourself standing on that campus, and if you do not get the feeling that this place is like home, or close to a place you can call home, do not consider it as much as another campus that gives you that strong vibe. Make sure the college you wish to attend has all the facilities you will need to be satisfied, or as many as possible: be picky, because this decision is a very important and weighty one. Of course, if you are not pleased you can transfer to another school, but why not spend the time initially and make a really great choice? Be sure to make the most of your college experience by using all your time wisely! Take advantage of all that your college has to offer and do not be afraid to ask for anything.

Andrea

When choosing a school, pick a school that correlates with the way you learn. If you work best in a small class room environment, pick a school with a small classroom environment and not a lecture hall. Decide whether you'd be most comfortable at a small college or a big university. It's perfectly okay to go into college un-decided but do browse what degrees the college offers and what you might be interested in, otherwise you mind end up changing. Visit a college/university several times before deciding on it and try to get to know some of the faculty. Go on campus tours and get to know the campus well. It'll help when starting school.

Erika

When searching for the right college, parents should visit several different schools with their child and talk to staff/faculty and find out different information about each school. They should keep a list of the pros and cons about each school so that when it comes time for their child to choose the college they will attend, they will have a guide to refer to. To help the student make most of their college experience, parents should give their child space to experience and learn on their own and with their own friends. Also, parents need to trust that their child can make the right decisions, but don't just leave them to do everything on their own. Students should study hard, and keep a goal in mind so that they can stay focused in school. Another helpful tip for students is to get involved in every possible program that they can. Have fun and work hard; if the student does this then they will have a great college experience.

kathy

Think about the college tuition and if the school has the major your intrested in. Visit the campus look at the class rooms see if you see yourself going to the college.

Christina

There are alot of things I wish I knew before going to college last fall. Some advice I would give parents/and or students about finding the right college and making the most of the college experience is by being as true to yourself as you can. Alot of people tend to choose a school that their parent's want them to go to, and or their friends. It is best to choose the school that YOU feel most comfortable at, and know that you can learn in that particular environment. Also, when you go to college it is smart to get involved. Whether it is a small campus, or large one, becoming apart of school activities makes you apart of a community. I guarentee the best college experience if you just be yourself, and join clubs or other organizations that involve activities you like. College does not just have to be about academics, it is also about finding yourself.

Imaira

The advice i would give to parents and students is, start your search as early as high school. Parents should talk to their children about the many diffrent jobs and careers available to them. Find out what your childs interest are. Most high schools have programs that offer classes with college credits. Students should take advantage of this. They should also speak to their college advisor. The college advisor can help them search for colleges and also help them with financial aid applications. They can also help them find scholarships that they your child can apply for. I would also recommend a visit to the college you child chooses. It is also a good idea the visit other schools to see what each one offers and do a comparasion. Weigh is certain factors such as, tuition, room and board, books the cost of traveling or campus life etc. You want to choose a school that your child can get the most out of and one that will prepare them for the world. Before you chose a college I highly recommend you do some research about the school, its reputation, and success.

Carmen

I didn't have a dream school. In my mind, though, I had this picture of exactly what I wanted college to be like. And my most useful advice to you? Don't settle. And once you get there? Don't give up. Don't settle for a school because of cost- if you are determined to make it, you'll be able to pay off loans and make it worth the experience. Don't settle because someone ELSE thinks it's the best fit for you. No one knows you better than you know yourself, and there would be nothing worse than being stuck somewhere you don't love. Don't give up once you're there. Make friends with people from all different walks of life. Learn to balance fun and work. Don't give up your old friends, but don't sacrifice and not make new ones. Don't give up on learning. I promise, teachers DO want you to pass, and they're more willing to help you than you may think. And most of all, love what you're doing every minute. Have fun and don't forget a minute of it.

Janieke

Parents/students should always keep one thing in mind when choosing a college "is the the right place for my child/me?" When choosing a college you have to make the decision based on whether you could see yourself in that type of an envrionment. They also have to decide whether they want to live close to home, or far away. Also they have to decide if they want to be in a warmer climate or a colder one. Parents/students should also take time out to visit any colleges of interest and to ask any students whogo there what they experiencehas been like since they have been there. For students to make the best out of their college experience they should join activities on campus, get to know the people in their dorm if they're living on campus, get to know their classmates, and go to any campus ororganization sponsored events.

Danielle

I would tell students make sure you pick a college that has more than one major that you are interested in. In case you do not like your first choice, you should always have a back up. When looking at colleges keep financial areas in mind. You do not want to graduate college deep in debt. Parents, let your child decide on their future. If they want go away let them. It is them that has to deal with everything, not you. Make the most of your college experience. These next four years will be hard, but just think of the outcome. You have a goal and you want to reach it. When you graduate you will look back and say these past four years were the best years of your life. Most importantly enjoy it!

Tenisha

For Parents, I would suggest not putting any restrictions on your child's decision. Let them be free to make the proposal for school and be there as a support system for them. Ask them if this university is right for them based on character traits that you know about them. For the Student, I would suggest picking a place where resources are close by, where you'll be comfortable and where you can make the most of this experience. Don't be shy or self conscious. Get active as soon as you arrive on campus because that's the way friends and relationships are made. I would also suggest good time management and less procrastination since kids in our generation tend to do it alot. Juggling the academic with the social is the hardest thing to get used to but it can be done. Utilize campus facilities and the faculty because they're here to help you in anyway possible and also because you're spending all that money on it. Overall I would say good luck on the hunting and, with hope, you'll end up as happy as I am with my decision.

Tanya

Every individual is different, choose whats right for you. Decide if you want to be in a city (no campus) or on a campus. Visit the school and while touring the campus picture yourself there. .look to see the different types of crowds. Try to expose yourself to a diverse campus.

Agnieszka

The advice that I have to give is to be on the "lookout" all throughout high school. Don't procrastinate and leave everything for last minute because this is the future of your children that you are dealing with. They need all the help and support, be it emotional or financial, that they can get. Who else is going to give it to them if not their parents? What helped me the most was devoutly talking and discussing certain aspects of my future college experience with my high school counselor. They are there for a reason, and they have your best interests at heart. Let them help you. If it turns out that you need more help, then they'll gladly be able to direct you to someone who can do so... Most importantly, you can't stress too much in the process. This is supposed to be a great learning experience for everyone who's involved so keep the environment as laid-back as possible. It greatly helps to keep everyone at ease and concentrated on what they need to accomplish. Just encourage your kids and you might be surprised where they could end up...

Jessica

I think finding the right college for anyone starting out should not be simply based on which college is cheaper or more publicly accepted as prestigeous but based on comfort. If you're going to be involved with a place for 4 years, that is a commitment to yourself so you might as well make sure you would enjoy it. People should definitely do campus tours and participate in the "shadow" programs. At St. John's, I know prospective students can spend a weekend and a school day following random dorming students around in our daily activities and classes to get a feel for the school's conduct. What is most important for me is diversity and the school's global influence. I found out a lot of people from all over the country and around the world attended St. John's. I've made Nigerian, Vietnamese, and European friends. I've also made friends from places nearby like Pennsylvania and Boston to California, on the other side of America. I know we also have a Rome and Paris campus and many study abroad programs in Latin America & Asia. We also have strong charity programs across the Americas and Europe.

sarita

make sure you find the college that best fits the student

Philippe

You need to find out what is the best fit for the prospective student and see what feels right.