Stevenson University Top Questions

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

Kari-Ann

Knowing what I know now about college life there is a bit of advice I would have given myself. First off I would have let myself know, that it is okay to get stressed about work, but you just need to be able to work through it in a timely matter. I would have also let myself know that yes, the work load does come at you quick, but as long as you dominate it, then you will be able to work through it. The other advice I would have given myself is, school isn?t something to be afraid of, nor are the professors. Everyone is there looking out for you and wanting you to succeed, you just have to be willing to go find the help. The help isn?t going to necessarily run up to you, you have to go outside of the box to find it.

Chervonna

I would tell myself not to dwell on issues involving my social life. The issues will not last as long as they seem and it is very distracting to your education. Most friendships will not last either. Concentrate on your future. Stay very focused. Try not to get distracted, it will only hurt you in the end. Try your very best, nothing less.

Lindsey

Dear Lindsey, So now is the time to make a huge decision, one which will guide you along your career path and steer you in one direction or another. Most importantly over the next few years you will need to surround yourself with people who are as driven and motivated as you are because the connections you make in college will serve you for a lifetime. Maybe you don't know what you want to do? That's fine, and here's what no one tells you, DO NOT save your Internships for your junior or senior year in college! You need to think of what you might like to do and Intern at a different place in that field EVERY semester. Another thing NO ONE will tell you... don't look just for "internships." Find out where you think you'd like to work or where you think might interest you and just call them. Tell them you'd like to volunteer, or work for free. You will not get turned downed or rejected. You'll get your foot in the door and learn whether you like that field or not. This is how you find your path.

Oyinade

Learn more about the different aspects of loans.

Erica

If i could go back to my high school senior year I would advise myself to put alot of thought into my career goal and choose it wisely. Not only to choose a major in which i would be most successful, but to also choose a major that I enjoyed and could use my current skills and goals to be good at. I would also advise myself to learn and apply study tactics because I have discovered that studying is one of the most important skill used in college. The last thing I would advise myself is to join more activities and clubs. Becoming a part of a club can impact the world in various ways and is also a great way to meet new people.

Breana

Senior year was the most exciting year of high school, kind of like how my freshman year of college is. However, if I could go back in time and whisper some advice in my ear I definitely would. I would start by telling myself that college would be like high school away from home. Besides the freedom of choosing classes and not having to listen to your parents all day, your peers are pretty much the same. There are cliques, and people who are judgemental no matter where you go. Being a female, I learned that the males are also much worse in college then they were in high school. I did not realize college was all about "having a good time" to them and not taking any girl seriously. I would whisper loudly to the high school Breana, "Do not worry about the guys especially your freshman year!". I would aslo tell myself to get incolved in at least one sport to make lots of new friends. My biggest transition from high schoool to college would ultimately be adjusting to a new group of peers and learning how to use them to my advantage.

Crystal

Going back in time, knowing what I know now about college life and making the transition, I would advise myself as a senior to do career based research. I would advise myself to research the career that I would be spending the rest of my life doing. I would ask myself would I really enjoy doing this for the rest of my life and if so, do an internship or externship in that field to validate my aspirations about that career. Putting yourself into the actual workplace can either deter further interest in that field or further exemplify and strengthen your determination throughout your education. Knowing where your determination will lead can make the time go by fast and help you stay focused and keep your eye on the PRIZE- your lifelong career.

Jolie

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior; I would sit myself down and say "Now you listen here you hard headed child. This college life here is no joke, it is nothing to play around with it will put a dent in your pocket, however it will make a better life for you. First thing you need to do is stop being lazy and go after grants ,and scholarships, get as many as you can. If your school costs$30 thousand a month, get $40 thousand dollars in scholarships. Loans are bad , and once you get out of college you have to pay them back. Scholarships and grants are not repayable. The next thing once you get to college, it is a totally different world. The reason being is that you have entered the world of independency . Mom and Dad are not your care providers anymore, its up to you to get up go to class and study. Becareful of the parties an who you hang with. Good times will still be here when your dead and gone, now you need to worry about your career and your future, be smart".

Miranda

If I could go back in time I would tell my high school alternate self that she should spend less time with her friends and get a second job because paying for college is not as simple as getting as many loans as possible. The application processes are difficult without a cosigner. I would also argue that if she did not want to get a job she should spend more time studying in hopes for academic scholarships because college is nothing like high school. It is unfortunate that my past-self might ignore my warnings but I would not give up until she understood that I am from the future and I have experienced college and it is a lot more than social gatherings and parties it is something she will really have to work on and devote all of her attention to in order to be successful.

Kurt

If I ever had the opportunity to go back in the time and tell myself what I need to do to prepare for college, the first thind i'd do would be to start off telling myself, I really need to find the right college for me. Second I'd tell myself how important it is to get the grades and test scores in order to earn scholarships or financial aid. I got myself stuck in between a rock and a hard place right now and I'm regratting every moment of it. I made the mistake of just picking up my stuff and moving to Florida where I currently attend Full Sail University. I knew little about the school and found that I didn't like it and that it just wasn't the school for me. Now i'm trying to come up with the moeny to where I'll be able to transfer to an actual four-year university. Without scholarships none of this will be possible and I never had the grades nor test schools needed to get academic scholarshops. If i ever had the chance to change my life that's how i would prepare.

Sade

I would tell myself to be more social and not to let the stress get to you. I was so overwelmed with tring to maintain a social life and school life I completely shutdown and became an anti-social insomniac. Thankfully the staff at my school noticed and after talking to a first year advisor i got back on track. Sadly my grades suffered which is sad because the work wasnt that hard. I would explain to myself parties and clubs can come during another time, but now this is for establishing yourself as an individual and not caring about who did what and who went where. And lastly I would tell myself that everyone has stress and sitting alone in the dark won't do anything so get up and study with your friends dance in the shower but just realize this is OUR life so don't MESS THIS UP!

Danyelle

Don't let others put you down. Keep climbing the ladder.

Emily

Colleges know how difficult the transition from high school to college can be. They try to make it easier by providing services and events. These can be surprisingly helpful. If I could talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to take advantage of the services the college I chose offered. One thing in particular that I wish I had taken advantage of was a sleepover night on campus. A lot of colleges offer you the chance to spend the night or a weekend on campus. I wish I had taken that opportunity because it would have given me a better picture of life on campus. It also might have diminished the shock of the transition. If nothing else, it would have given me a chance to get to know people on campus before move-in day. A good college will give you plenty of opportunities to adjust to life on campus. If I could go back in time, I would warn myself not to dismiss these events. Sometimes they seem a little weird, but good things hide in weird places. Let the college help you; that?s what they?re there for!

Kelly

I would tell myself to make sure that I am prepared to become much more independent. Living life on campus is a great experience because it allows to get a feel for what it is like to be on your own for a little while. But I'd also warn myself to not let others try to slow me down. The students on campus are friendly and nice but I always need to remember the reason that I came to college, not only to better myself in education but realize who I am and who I could be. I'd tell myself to not get caught up in anything like drinking alcohol in the dorms even if the weekends are boring. I would also tell myself to become very involved with campus activities whether it includes activities that help with my career or just fun activities. I'd tell myself to always make sure I have sufficient time to complete my schoolwork and make time to have fun with roommates and classmates. I'd also say make friends with upperclassmen because they've been where you are so they can help you. I'd say be safe and good luck.

Michael

If I were to go back in time to talk to myself about college I talk about studying. First I would tell myself this is not a dream this is really happening, you are meeting the future you. I would then say you should pay attenton to the few words that I have for you. First I would say is you need to learn how to study on a college student level and not a high school level. Myself would say what are you talking about and I would say college requires more precision when studting and its not about the quantity its about the quality of studying. I would tell him you must not study it like you are just trying to get it over with, but study it because you want to get something out of it. I then explain to myself that final exams are the one of the most important test you will take in your college career. I tell him that could notes are a vital part of flight of success in college or the crash and burn of failure. Depending on how you take your notes depend on how well you do. So farwell.

Kimberly

As a senior in high school, some constant worries of mine included the daily girl drama, stressing myself out about getting good grades, and focusing on my future. I would tell myself "once your in college, things will be different" and now I know first hand. One thing I would go back in time and tell myself is that the drama continues and not to expect it to stop, although you can control this "drama" by picking a close group or friends that can be trusted. This would lead into my next piece of advice. You will only be sucessfull if you do not stress yourself. Find friends you can vent to and have well needed fun with. Stress will not make you do better on tests and assignments. Moreover, I let myself know that college, refering to coursework, is no harder than high school. The information may be more complex, but it is more interesting. These few pieces of advice are a few of the ones I pass onto my younger friends now, and I believe if they take it, they will be jsut fine in college.

Samuel

The advice I would give myself if I could go back in time would be to not be afraid and go out to make as many friends possible; to never be shy, always confident. I'd also tell myself to get into good study habits and work twice as hard as I already did athletically. Staying involved with the schools functions and the surrounding community would also be vital advice. Lastly, I would advise myself not to change my personality for anyone or anything; that I should just keep being myself and to enjoy life.

Amanda

Continue to be organized and well prepared. Never procrastinate. Be social, but know that education always comes first!

Megan

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would inform myself. I would tell myself to do tons of scholarships and apply for any grants. Also I would tell myself to check out more colleges and universities to see if any really focus on my major.

Colin

If I was able to go back in time I would tell myself to just trust your instincts in applying to the schools and make sure that the school is the best fit for you. The transition is pretty easy if a person's head is on straight and knows whats important about life and school. Also I would tell myself make sure that you expand your horizons and try many things because you only live once and these oppurtunities might never come back, so you need to take advantage of them while you still can and are able to see how good you got it. Another thing I would say is work hard but at the same time be sure to have fun and grow as a human being because you have seen the outside world and you are one of the lucky ones to live in this great nation with all the chances to travel and experience what the world has to offer. The most important thing I would tell myself is to be yourself and do not let any one take that away from you and stand up for what is right and what you belive in.

Christen

College is going to be hard. You need to prepare yourself to deal with hared situations, because life is going to get harder. You're going to have to deal with new situations, people are going to be frustrating and pig-headed. You need to know when to fight and when to let it go, but don't back down when your know someone is wrong. Just be strong and you can handle what comes your way.

Tyler

There isn't anything I would tell myself to change what has happened. The transition happened the way it did for a reason and it has made my life great. There isn't anything I would do differently.

Cierra

Keep your options open. Don't just focus on just one school, may sure that you are looking at all your choices.

Brittany

First thing is to visit all colleges they are interested in and pick the one that you feel the most comfortable with.

Casey

Think finacially, no problem with community colleges.

Chelsea

Parents and their students must keep their lines of communication open when applying for colleges, and discuss all possible options. Parents need to understand that if their child is adament about attending a university 300 miles away, they should allow their child that experience, no matter how bad it hurts to see them go. However, if the student does attend school far away without the parents around, they will need to understand that with freedom comes great responsibility. The student and their parents should visit as many campuses as possible, both large and small, and in between to allow the student to decide which school, student population, faculty and curriculum is right for them. College is only what you make of it, so parents should be supportive, and students should be adventurous whether that be joining a club or fighting for a cause. Why do I give this advice? Because, it worked wonders for me!

Leah

Keeping up with your schoolwork is the most important thing, because once you get even a little behind, it is hard to catch up. But don't forget to have fun too. Otherwise you will end up stressed. Devote small chunks of time throughout the day to be "power hours" where you completely focus on your work for a short time. Then take a break before doing something else. I find this way I get work done, but don't feel overwhelmed.

Katlyn

The advice that I have to give, is to really take time to reflect on yourself. Think about aspects of life that are important to you. If being near the city and always being on the go is important to you than think about a bigger school with lots of extra-curricular activities, but if taking it easy is more for you than look for a school that is set in the country side. Also, shadowing a student at the school(s) that you are interested in is extremley important. You sit in on classes and mingle with current students and it allows you to get a feel for the college!

Chanelle

The factors that I would suggest to look out for are: teacher/student ratio, available financial aid, location of school, tuition, available programs to study, and career services department.

Frankie

I would advise that parents AND students visit several colleges before making a final decision, and base their choices on mutliple factors. Among them, location, tutition/scholarships offered, meal plans, sports teams/extra ciricular activites, and how the academic program is set-up, and especially if the major the student would want to pursue is available. Upon selecting the "right" college, being accepted and beginning the college career, a student should get him/herself involved with extra ciricular activities, avoid costly decisions (such as partying during weekdays), befriend fellow classmates, get to know roommates and hallmates, and use all of the resources the college has to offer, including libraries, fitness centers, teachers/staff/administration, tech labs and any other resource the school offers.

Laura

I would say to be sure that you can see yourself at the college. Make sure that it is a well balanced environment. You should find your college a good place to learn but also filled with social activities and good clean dorms to live in. It is important to look for a school that is also focused on life after college. At my school, there is a huge emphasis on your career and the faculty and staff walk you through the process of developing a strong resume and building a career you will love from the time you enter the college. If I could sum up what to look for in a college in one word: balance.

Laura

The cheaper the better.

Jason

Visit at least a half dozen schools. Absolutely shadow a current student. Sit in on classes that you will be taking throughout your college career. This is huge. If you are planning on living on campus, spend a weekend w/ a host student to get a feel of the social life. Visit the Career/Job Placement department and speak personally with them about the job search process and assistance they provide. Once in college, get to know people. Even if you're shy, just walk up to someone and introduce yourself and start asking questions. Everyone else is in the same boat as you. Everyone likes to talk about themselves. Asking questions is a great way to start and hold a conversation. Seriously, boldness works. This is coming from a "shy" kid who realized this his senior year of college and wishes he could go back to fresman year with this knowledge. :)

Yan

My advice is simple but rather important; always review your choices. Never settle for a college because you think that is the best college for you or your child, settle when you have done the research and have found it to be the best college for you or your child.

Jessica

Make sure you take a tour and find out everything about the school from its social activites to the education and sports. And make sure you are 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} comfortable with the school. try not to get any loans unless it is necessary. Save your money do not spend it on stupid stuff like shopping books are no joke

Stephane

Look into the financial aid, check out the academics and feel at home with your school of choice.

Tiffany

Let your kids explore and find what interests them the most. Dont try to choose for them yet assist them in making their choice and finding the right colleger for them. Stay on your kids side and support them all the way.

Kimberlee

Make sure you take notes during class and try to go to every class possible.

Mallory

the best advice i have for new students is to find out what the school does in regards to activities and whether you find them fun or not. try to find a student with your intended major, that goes to the school, so you can go on a school visit with the student and sit in the classroom and experience the classroom so you can judge it for yourself. You can see first hand what you'll be in store for. do not just settle for the campus "visit" where you walk around with a guide. also find out what the general interest is within the school and find out if students like the school before investing time and money in the school. Check out the grading policy, some people may not agree with a plus minus grading system. My general opinion in finding the right school is search early, make sure the school fits your personality and satisfies all of your needs before you enroll.

Dawn

Go see whats out there! Schools you may have never thought of attending may be the school for you! Bigger is not always better! Don't let tuition costs influence your decision; everyone is struggling to pay for it too! Ask questions, chances are you're not the first who has wondered that! Don't ask what you can do for your college, ask what your college can do for you. Get involved in clubs and organizations! Not only does it look good on a resume, you'll have fun! If you have the chance, STUDY ABROAD! It is a life changing, eye-opening, amazing experience that you won't forget. Make friends! Get a life out of school! Keep in touch with old friends. Talk to your parents, they actually give good advice. Most importantly, be yourself. If people don't accept you, they aren't people you need to be associating with.

Bridget

I would tell them to choose a school first based on major. I know a number of people who have had to transfer from their college after they decided on a school which does not offer what they want to study. Go to a school with a vibrant social life and where students have a lot of pride in their school.

Amber

Find out how you are going to pay for it. Not just one year but all four years. Include books, extra activities, tuition, meal plan, gas, bills, clothes, and extra things.

Brandy

Visit the schools, it can look great on paper but a visit could completely change your mind. The biggest school isnt always the best school.

Kathaleen

Choose a college you know will help you best in your success. Make you you will not be in overwhelming debt as well. If you need a small loan thats great but having a huge loan turns into a problem. Look at different schools and visit them to get a feel of how they will be when you are there. Do not be afraid to ask question because that will better help you understand their structure. Pick a school you know you will be able to get your work done but also have a social life where you can interact with people who are in the same position you are at school. It is a great help to meet with advisors to help you make yourself feel comfortable with being at that college or university. If you are not sure on a major choose a community college and figure out what you want to be while getting all the required prequistes. It is easier to make these decision so you will not be in a bind in your junior year at a college that you are not happy at.

Renee

Make sure that the college that the student wants to go to is their choice, not yours. Extensive pressure for students to go to their parents' college is not fair to the student. The parent is not the one going to college! I also think its important that the over protective over involved parents release their parental grip on their children. Let the student experiment. College is not just a place you attend to go to learn. There is a lot of mental and emotional transformations that take place at college and a student should be able to experience every tear, every let down, every late paper, every broken heart, and every laugh that coming to college has to offer. Students.... take this opportunity to find your true passion and once you find it, strive to do it well. Lastly, parents and students remember: college is the beginning place to become who you will be for the rest of your lives.

Katie

The first thing I would tell students or parents looking for the right college is always to visit them. The website you look at may seem great, but actually going to the college and talking to students and professors is the best way to get to know the school and if it feels right to you. I visited a couple of different school and came to find that I prefered a small school with smaller classes, but someone else might prefer lectures and higher student to teacher ratios. To get the most of your college experience, I would say to try new things whenever you can. Often school have orientation days or social events that have tables set up with the different clubs and organizations available for you to participate in while on campus. Talking with the member of the clubs will give you insight on whether or not you may want to do that activity while giving you a chance to meet some of your peers and start creating relationships. This will also give you a great opportunity to make friends in clubs. The best way to find a college and experience it is just to try new things.

Nicole

Do whatever you feel like doing during your college years. Don't stress about things; everything will be fine in the end. Look at different schools and do more than just the campus tour. Have someone show you the campus that actually attends the university! Go there on the weekend and get a feel for student life.

Jessica

Go into the college experience with your eyes open, relaxed and brain working. Think not only what you look for now but a school that will help you look forward to our future as well. Somewhere that will prepare you for everything that comes up in your life so you will never be taking off guard. Look for a school that will keep you safe, will bend over backwards to help you, teach you and tutor you if needed. Find somewhere like Villa Julie, when you walk in the door everyone smiles.

Jessica

I would suggest first and formost to look at all the majors, and options for payment, living, dorms, food, and all other needs at the colleges that you have chosen to apply for. Next I would suggest going on tours of the schools and visiting during the summer or school year before you attend. After you have toured the schools you have chosen and looked at expenses you should apply for a FAFSA and other financial aid, grants, and scholarships. Then make a final list of your favorite and most affordable schools and fill out the necessary paperwork to apply also try checking the school's website to see if there are any other loans, grants, or scholarships that can be awarded to you by the school and possibly sign up for a payment plan if necessary. Try to go to as many open events at the school as possible so that you can get a feel for the schools setup.

Dominique

Advice that I would give parents and students about finding the right college would be to make sure that you have enough aid that will cover you for your time at that college.get to know you academic advisor if you have one, also get to know your teachers, also make sure that you get to know the financial aid people sometimes if they know you well enough they can pull strings for you. Overall, just enjoy your experience, you only live once!