Stetson University Top Questions

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

Ana

Any school will be both fun and academically engaging

Nels

Find a school you can see yourself studying at. So many students make their decision about what school to attend because they know someone who went or goes there or they know there is a great social scene. Your academic success is the key reason you attend college. Also, be yourself no matter how other people try to change you. Being the same person, but better, when you graduate is very important. Find out who you are, not what others want you to be. Think every decision you make through. You will no longer have the collective decision making skills of you and your parents to rely on and if you do what you think they would want you to, you can't help but succeed.

Ginamarie

Go and visit the campus and talk to as many people who have information about the college as you can.

Glory

First, I would like both they to know that they should base their decision on finding a university based on your current situation and personality. The future will come in time and you will have a lot of growing up to do within your 4 yrs in college. Parents and students always base their decisions on the future, "who has the best grad/law school"? or "Where do you want to work after you graduate"? One should ask "who has a variety of majors, so if I decide to change majors I can always find something I like" ,"where have I always wanted to live at temporarly and is the campus safe"? "How is the school spirit in the school"? "Does the school have sport teams that I would attend games or are there clubs that interest me"? "Do I want small classes vs large classses"? There are so many questions that have to do with the current situation and personality of a student. And lastly, parents and students should take a tour of the campus. There is a feeling that you get inside that makes you belive "this is where I belong" you will know which school to pick.

Brittany

Choose a school that not only fits your needs academically but also socially and geographically. If you choose solely on academics, your overall well-being and social happiness will be compromised. Also, do individual research on prospective professors and their successful (and unsuccessful) students. Take a brief survey of the student population, is it diverse, with people of different racial, cultural and economic backgrounds? One downside to a school that isn't varied is the lack of a broad spectrum of beliefs, opinions and objectivity. Have an emergency financial plan; apply for as many scholarships as possible-even if you think you'll never have a chance of getting it. Also, apply for a school that you think you do not have a chance of getting into, a school you want to get into and have a pretty good chance as well as a school that you are positive you will get into.

Taylor

The college experience is all about making mistakes and figuring out who you are and what you want out of life. However, there is much advice that I would give to a college freshman and his/her parents. Firstly, take it seriously. Grades are crucial, and the first two years are the most important, given the way GPA is calculated. Secondly, get as many classes out of the way as possible during high school and summer breaks. This can be done through dual enrollment, or taking summer classes at a community college. Most schools will only accept community college credits until one has earned 60 credits, so do it early! This saves you time, money, and allows you to take classes you are interested in, not just general ed. Third, start thinking about career plans early. You do not want to graduate with the wrong major because you didn't start thinking about a job until your junior year, and by then, it was too late to switch from that biology major. If graduate school is your plan, take grades extremely seriously, and get to know your professors. They help with letters of reccomendation, advice, and more. Lastly, enjoy it!

Christina

College is the path through which your dreams are headed. Take the time and effort to apply everywhere your heart desires. Visit and talk to current students on the campus to learn more about what life is really like on the campus. Parents; please accept whatever decision your student makes about where to go and what major to pick. There is nothing in the world more inspirational then your acceptance. Students; apply early, and apply everywhere. College is more then just an educational experience; it is where you learn to "be a person", as my college band director always says. Soak up the independence, and take responsibility for the new liberties you have been granted. The more seriously you take college now, the easier your life and career will be later. College is untouched, freighting, and educational frontier. Enter with caution and confidence. Pick your path and enjoy the ride!

Michelle

You need to find the place at which you feel most comfortable. Campus should feel like home. If it doesn't feel right, you should probably keep looking. That's why it's so important to visit campuses. Don't let someone else tell you what you want to do at college. A lot of students choose a major or a college because it's what their parents want them to choose. This is YOUR decision. The only way it could be wrong is if you're not happy. College is about finding who you are. Choose the place that will help you the best. =) Once you're there, keep up with your grades, but don't get too stressed out. You can still get As and have a social life, I assure you. If you lock yourself in the library for hours on end, you may get an A, but you're probably not going to be happy. Study with friends and make time for yourself. If you get too stressed, don't be embarrassed to go to counselling. They're there to help you. Plus, you get to vent for an hour and it's free and confidential.

Nicole

The right college for anyone is mostly based on what acadmeic atmosphere the student wants to emurse themselves in for four years (more or less). Acamedics will be at the core of any college, and is what should be looked at closely first and foremost. If you are looking to challenge yourself acamedically and grow intellectually a more rigorous school would fit best. If you are looking to merely obtain a degree to further a career, or financial status, than a less regorous school would fit best.

Jessica

Go to the place where you feel at home.

David

The earlier you know what you want to do after college the better. It allows more time for planning your place in the world and the steps you will have to take in getting there. At the same time, you may spend college searching for your passion and continue searching after graduation. The best advice overall is to keep an open mind and always look, listen, and learn.

Kayley

Research is an important part of the process. Don'y just take a tour of the campus, take the time to shadow someone in the field you are interested in to get the full picture. Make sure that you are financially able to cover the costs of attending the school. This is extremely important for both small and big schools. Apply to a lot of different schools and dont get burnt out in the process. if you do, you may end up in a place that you aren't happy with. although there is no way to know which choice will be the most beneficial until you get there, researching your options will definitely help. I definitely believe that researching your options and all of the pro's and con's is the most important part of the college process. research will allow you to have a wonderful college experience. it will allow you to see all of the aspects of your potential college life. if you are happy in your decision, you will have a positive and wonderful experience.

Cleo

Visit the campuses before making your decisions. Realize that tuition increases every year. Know that some degrees don't have a clear cut job path and researching job positions is important. Do as many clubs and activities as you can because you meet people through these opportunities.

Kim

Choosing where you want to go to college is an extremely personal , and frequently stressful , decision that teens and their families have to make. In order to ease the tension of picking a college one would determine what you might like to study or major in at college first, giving you some idea of a career. One could develop a list of criteria you want to use to evaluate and weed out colleges. For instance, distance from home, financial aid assistance , or class sizes. This would help to lessen your options. Another thing would be to visit the college first. The brochures might show you one thing but when you actually visit you could be expose to a whole new world. Th greatest outcome of the college experience is finding yourself in the proceess. With new responsibilities and a lot of time it is eeasy to discover something different in yourself. When you do, you embrace that innner person and apply it to the rest of your life.

Jennifer

Find out a situation that you are most comfortable with, and go with the college that best suits these needs. I weighted my need to stay at home with my divorced mother heavily in my case, and don't regret it. Because of this I picked a school nearby, and lived off campus to save money. If you're social, and feel that in order to experience college-life to the fullest you need many friends and need to be able to immerse yourself into academic and social pursuits, join a sorority/fraternity and definitely try living on campus. If you're into the arts, focus on schools who offer reputable Arts and Science degrees. Being a business major, I looked into the reputation of Stetson University's Business School before applying. It was rated #1 in the state at the time, so I knew I'd be getting the most out of my money. Always remember that you (or your parents) are paying for you to attend this college, and because of that you should be experiencing college life exactly how you want to. Never go second best, and always think ahead for your future in your career!

Chantel

I would pay attention to the size and the kind of environment that will be best for learning. It's also important to know what kind of financial aid each school gives becuase it is different at every school.

Michele

For prospective studnents and their parents, I think one of the most important things they can do together in selecting a university that fits their needs, is sit down together and make a list of all the features they want at a school and then continue to go through the process of selecting schools together. No one should choose a college without also visiting and seeing what the vibe is at every school they are thinking of attending. Don't choose a university just because your best friend or boyfriend is going there; make the choice that best fits your dreams and aspirations for your life. Follow what you think is right for you, and you won't be disappointed.

Jennifer

You want to make sure the college fits your personality. Also you want to think on situations such like not being close to home or not having small classes to see what your fit is.

Carrie

I would make sure parents and students consider what colleges are economically feasible for their family.

Paul

"The only things one never regrets are one's mistakes." - Oscar Wilde

Nelson

Find a college that first of all will cater to the academic needs you are looking for. For example, if you are wanting to get a degree in biology, find a college that has a solid science degree program. Make the most out of your college experience by getting involved as much as possible.

Alexander

If you enjoy small town atmosphere, with little entertainment, and a demanding workload, you will enjoy Stetson University. This is a school for those who intend to work hard. For your $40,000 tuition you will receive a fraction of what a larger school can offer you in terms of resources, entertainment, and etc. All in all, if you have money and lots of patience Stetson is for you.

Caroline

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Daniella

visit the school

imogene

visit as many schools as you can to get a feel for what you want before you even begin to apply, dont apply to just the schools your guidance counselor gives you, do your research and get a feel for where you will fit best. 4 years is a long time, you should make sure you're completely happy with your final choice, and always remember that if you aren't completely happy, you CAN always transfer! its not a big deal!

Larry

Just look for a college that you find would be the best extension of yourself. Because it is you, who will be attending the school. You have an idea of what you want and what your possible career will need, so pick a college that will give you what you need. And you should think of college as an investment in your future so you shouldn't fret over the cost too much unless there is no way you can afford it. You should also do your best to meet new and interesting people becasue the friendships you make in college will last for a long time, possibly a lifetime. And the friends you have will make the time spent at school even more awesome. You should also try new things and find out who you really are.

Jesse

Just go with what feels right: visiting a campus is essential.

Cory

Visit the college you are interested in. It makes a difference to talk to real students, not just the ones who are giving the tour of campus. Shadow someone or a class. Do not be afraid to look at a school that your friends are not going to.

Melissa

Finding the right college takes much time and research. You must in order to get a feel for the school go on camps tours and talk to some of the students already attending. You must feel comfortable in you environment and make the most of your experience by not being afraid to go out of your comfort zone. Meet new people and join as many clubs as you can. Making connections and having those friends will allow for a smooth tansition. Always do your best because this is the only opportunity you will have to show people what you are made of. Always remember you have friends and family to support you as well as professors and faculty. You are never alone.

Kameron

Honestly, at the end of the day, you can get a very good education at a lot of schools, but it's the people there - the people who you meet who matter. That's why I've stayed at Stetson University.

Jana

You need to find a balance of academics and financial aid. If you're not sure what you want to major in, look for a school with strengths in a lot of areas so that if you change your mind, you're not stuck in the wrong place. Go with your gut in picking a school and hang in there -- everyone wants to transfer their first semester.

Julian

Choose a college that offers the most amount of activities that suit your child/self. I strongly believe that college is what you make of it, but if you are surrounding but people that are not culturly aware, or surrounded by activites that you dont participate in than college can be a real obstacle. Prepare yourself for the work load, because college can be very extensive, ivy league schools are not neccessarily the best schools, you can easily recieve a top notch education from a public or private institution.

Nels

Do your best not to follow your friends or loved ones to an instatution. Find a campus that feels comfortable to you that you can imagine yourself studying at, not partying. Pay close attention to the many majors the college or university has to offer, everyone changes their mind eventually, give yourself the freedom to choose.

Greg

What ever your choice of college is, no matter if its your third choice, you will have fun. THe only people I have ever met not having fun or not enjoying college are those either languishing over the fact that they didnt get in somewhere else, or the one who dont take advantage of what college has to offer. It's COLLEGE. Make MISTAKES. Make the same mistake twice because it is too good to only make once. FORGIVE others. Forgive yourself. Forget things. PARTY on a weekday. PARTY HARDER on the weekends. Forget that you partied at all. Get Sick. Get so sick that you DON'T REMEMBER how you got sick. SKIP Class. Watch movies instead of doing homework. STAY UP all night before a final. Be SPONTANEOUS. Make PLANS. Break plans. LOVE. Get Attached. Get Jealous. Fall hard. BREAK HEARTS and get your HEART BROKEN. Cry, then laugh at it later. LAUGH so hard you can't stop. Have moments that you WISH would never end. Have moments you wish never began. Have CONVERSATIONS that you'll NEVER FORGET. Say the wrong thing at the wrong time. Get angry. Be CONFUSED it will all become clear eventually.

Erica

I would tell anyone that is applying to college to make sure that it is somewhere that you really want to go. I love my university but it was a very tough decision for me because none of my friends attended this school with me, which turned out to be a great thing. Yes at first it was hard to adjust, but it gave me a chance to show myself. It is also really important to find somewhere that you can afford, I know everyone wants to go to that certain school but it has to be something that you are going to be able to pay for. No one wants to come out of college with thousands of dollars in debt. Also HAVE FUN in college, and be yourself. This is your time to shine and live it up, but don't go too crazy. Its the time for you to mature just like your parents want you to.

Michelle

Take everything in consideration. The money, if you're working or commuting, or taking care of your family. Factor all of that in to help determine if the school's right for you- if it's worth it.

Julianna

Visit the schools you are thinking about attending and actually talk to some of the students there. Get a feel for what the campus, students, professors, and community is like. You want t o make very sure that the school you choose is going to be a good fit. Also, once there, get involved. Find something you are passionate about (outside of class) and get involved in it. Utilize all the things that your school has to offer so that you can succeed acdemically (tutors, career services, academic services, professors, librarians). Also, be friendly. You will feel more at home and part of the community if you become friends with people there, and people respond to friendliness the best. Put yourself out there; be willing to be hurt; be the first one to extend help, sympathy, support, and loyalty. Enjoy college! You only experience it once.

Natai

Make sure you look throughtly at all of the schools. Please do take a campus tour, preferably while school is in session. Ask lots of questions. Ask what is the worst part on campus. Ask to go into the buildings. Ask how many teachers are of color.

Marylin

Students should never go to college just to obtain a degree, get a job, and make more money. Individuals in our society seem to dwell too heavily on the fallacy that higher education immediately yields the promise of higher income; it does not, nor is this mindframe conducive to ideal academic success. Students should enter school with the mindframe to learn and grow into better individuals. This alone should be the goal parents feed to their pre-college students. With that said, some atmospheres fit a student's personality better than others, affective a student's potential to thrive. My overall advice would be to chose a college not solely because of reputation or stats, but because of the compatibility that school's atmosphere is with the student's blossoming potential.

Valentina

In order to find the right college for your child it is pivotal to visit each potential campus. A school may seem to be the perfect fit in a catalog yet may not be what your child is looking for upon arrival. For example, visiting a school and taking a tour gives a strong, accurate sense of the people on that campus and how they interact. It also truly displays the school's facilities unlike retouched pictures. Although the above is very important in finding what is right for your child, the most important thing to remember is to allow them to pick what school is right for them and stray from forcing a decision. The school that you feel is right for your child, or that was right for you, may in reality be unsuited for them, and forcing or pushing an institution on your child may take away from their college experience leaving them with "what if" questions.

Benjamin

I would suggest to students not to worry about whether or not you're school is going to be a fun place or not. All schools have their "party" scene, and what's most important is that you vibe with the location and size of the school you are thinking about attending.

Evan

I think its important to have a better idea as to what you really want to do before you apply to colleges so you can apply to schools that have the best programs for what you want to do. You don't want to know you want to study business then while you are in school decide that you want to study Asian business but then be stuck because your school doesn't have anything remotely connected to Asia. The more focused you can be before you get to college the better off you will be.

Sonia

My advice to students and parents is to take charge of your college search. From day one, make the college search about you and your academia requirements. It can be easy to turn they keys of your college search over to your parents, but for this trip you need to be in the driver?s seat. Many times, my interest and my parents interest are some what different . You must rank the necessary characteristics in order of importance to you and see how well each college matches up. Although this decision is ultimately a personal one, it never hurts to ask for advice from parents, friends, and people who know you well and care about your future. My advise to parents would be to prepare your child for the jorney, assist them in making right choices but encourage them to do the work . Your job is to prepare, encourage and support them to stand alone. All of these opportunities for the students help them to develop and grow , in the process it comforts the parent in watching their child develop into a mature adult.

Alexandra

One of the most important aspects of finding the right college is figuring out what kind of college you want to attend. If you do not have a specific major in mind, the best choice would most likely be to attend a community college for a year or two. This allows you to get general education classes out of the way, as well as experience classes from different fields to get an idea of what major you would possibly be interested in choosing. If you do have a specific major in mind or you have already attended a community college, the next step is to find a college that has all the aspects you want in a school. Although location is important, do not choose a college for the sole reason that it is close to a beach or other major attraction. Once in college, get to know people in your chosen field. These are the people who you will most likely be working with for the rest of your life, so build relationships with people you enjoy being around. Give constructive criticism instead of cutting comments, as they will come back to you later in life.

Corey

Make sure you visit all of the schools you are considering attending and talk to faculty and students before you commit to a school. Be sure you can afford to attend the school you decide on, either through scholarships or loans. Do your coursework, meet as many people as you can, and participate in your class discussions.

Morgan

The best advice that I could give parents and students about finding the right college is to really examine yourself as a person and see what is important to you and what type of personality you have. Some people can go to a large school and are social enough to reach out to people and make friends, others get lost in the crowd and never make friends or get homesick and leave early. Either way you should determine your personality type and think about going to a smaller school if you can afford it. Having a tight knit community like the school I went to is priceless. It can mean the difference between the best four years of your life or four years of frustration and loneliness. We all go to college to learn but we should really be there to make lifelong friends and open our minds to new cultures, experiences, and people. If you can find a school that fosters that type of environment then by all means check it out! You'll never regret the fun of going off to college, living the dorm life, and meeting new people.

michael

In search of the right college, one must be open minded and curious. Brouchures and statistics such as US News Ranking systems have their place yet nothing can subsititute touring the campus and actually observing what life is like at that school. When you find the school that has a certain comfort level, find out more about it. College is going to be a second home for students, and they need to make sure they can be comfortable at the college. Once one finds the right college for themselves they should not let other people greatly influence their decision, the student is the one going to the college, not the parents, friends or neighbors. Once at college, the key to happiness at school is involvement. Living on campus, joining clubs and organizations, or just trying to meet people and spending time with them are all great ways to integrate oneself into the college life.

Michael

Although this little bit of advice I am about to give never did apply to myself, I recommend parents and especially the students themselves to explore and locate the right college. Most students settle for colleges that are near their own homes, but those same students might not benefit at the local colleges. Finding the perfect school is vital to one's own personal growth and knowledge. Taking trips and spending several weeks locating the right college might become expensive for most families, but events like this make parents and students realize that there are numerous opportunities available for the student to pick from. Never settle for anything less than what that student really wants in their education, personal development and lifestyle. A student should choose a college after visiting at least three or four campuses. Most decide after visiting one, as in my case, but this practice does not work for everyone. I have friends that have even visited seven colleges before making a final decision, and they are quite pleased with the results. Why attend several universities and then find the right one when that right one should have been visited in the first place?

Kristen

The most important thing about picking out a college is first visiting it and chosing the college that you feel most comfortable and "at home" at. You also need to focus on how large you want your classes to be. This school is really small, which fits me and my needs best and is why I feel so comfortable here. When you get to college, you need to learn to manage your time appropriately. I have seen many freshman come in and get as drunk as possible and ignore classes. ALWAYS attend class, most professors here grade you on attendance, but missing one lecture can be detrimental. Always set aside one day a week where you do not do anything school related, it will help your stress levels. Also, living on campus prevents a separation of a home life and a school life, so make sure you plan a few days to get off campus to help stress levels as well.

Jeanne

I would advise families to go and visit the school before you make your final decision. If possible arrange it so that you can stay the night in one of the dorms with a current student. The student ambassadors are hired to present all of the positive aspects about a school while giving tours and will often not mention less positive aspects of the school. While staying the night in a dorm, high- school students are exposed to different opinions about the school and will get a more accurate representation.