Stony Brook University Top Questions

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

Alex

Many times while day dreaming, I sit and wonder if I could go back in time to my younger self, what would I tell myself? After much thought, I realize that there are only three things I would have to tell myself. The first is to make lifelong friends who I could rely on whenever I needed to. The second is to focus on school work because our future is important and grades are very important. The final thing I would tell my high school self is to cherish your family and the moments you have with them. Make every moment with them count. Knowing these things back then would have changed my life for the better. Although there is no “undo” button in life, I like to imagine what my life would have been like if given the opportunity. I believe my college life and post-graduate life would have been greatly changed

Lauren

You’re going to fail sometimes and that’s okay. With every step you take outside of comfort zone you’ll become a new and more confident person; the person you wanted to be in high school, but were too afraid of failure to become. You won’t always succeed. Sometimes you’ll gather your courage and speak up in class or try something new, only to have it end in failure. Eventually you’ll learn to file your mistakes away as lessons and utilize them as motivation. You’ll always be nervous about speaking in front of crowds, but take a breath and do it anyway, because your experiences and opinions make you a unique person who has a lot to offer if you only give yourself the chance. Your interests will shine through and your excitement will light up your entire being, captivating your audience as you realize you have the potential to inspire others. At presentations and performances your heart will pound, your throat will tighten, you’ll be dizzy with nerves, and you’ll love every second of it. Don’t allow your fear of looking foolish stop you from accomplishing your goals.

Media

Looking back at the situation of my life as a high school student and all the life changing events that surrounded it I could have benefited from finding a strong female role model. My high school self was a good student with no mother and an over worked father lacking the support of extended family. As a now strong women in the nursing workforce I would have told my highschool self how important it is to get involved with activities of interest while in school. This discussion would be supported with words of empowerment to pursue scholarships that would enable admission to college. It would also be important to motivate my highschool self by providing the various resources to support work towards entrance to college and encouraging this thinking half way through high school. It would be challenging to stress the importance of working towards an education versus building a social life as most of the students in my high school lacked motivation to continue on to college. A discussion on how putting work into pursing and obtaining a good education might lead to a happier and healthier life full of many rewards might have been reinforcement to previous discussions.

John

Get involved in everything you can. Try new things. Take leaps. Even if you don't like it, you just cross it off your list and move on to your next interest. You will find your niche. But don't let your work ethic slip! Some of the best advice I ever heard was "Treat college like a 40 hour a week job: if you don't spend 40 hours in class, spend the rest of the 40 hours in that week studying outside of class." Take leaps, make mistakes, do some stupid things! Don't squander your college experience!

Adebayo

Be ready with a plan, write it down. Know what you want then go for it. Everything is possible. Don't doubt yourself, everyone does, none need to. What is next is exciting. Walk froward with welcoming arms. Mom and dad won't be around so much, this is your chance to show them that they have nothing to worry about. Try new things. Focus on your studies but focus more on your relationships with people. Be kind to everyone you meet. You will be surprised where you end up doing the most learning. Don't dwell in your mistakes because they aren’t mistakes at all, they are just more lessons that college has to teach. Enjoy the moment, each and every single one, you have no idea how often you will visit these upcoming memories. Enjoy as much as you can so you don’t spend the future wishing to return to the past. Focus on learning the things that make you happy so that you may practice the things that give you purpose. Fall in love if you can, you aren’t too young and life is supposed to be fun. Trust me, I know you. Cheers.

Amber

Be bold and don't stop! Don't take the break and go straight to college. You CAN do it and you WILL excel at it. It will change your life. It may not seem like a big deal now and you may feel like other things are more important, but you will be amazed at what you'll do with the degree. You're smarter than you think you are and I know you can do this. Don't be afraid to speak up, lean in and be yourself. You're going to change the world.

Ibn-Umar

To start, I would have told myself to be more connected with my friends from high school. I realize now that wherever I go, I'm going to make new friends but it's just nice to keep in touch with people. Also, I would have warned myself about how expensive college textbooks and supplies were going to be. If I had known this crucial bit of information, I probably would have gotten a job earlier in high school. My final reminder to my past self would be to tell him that college days can fly by even faster than high school days. You get so caught up in the rush of things that you forget to keep track of time. You come in as an inexperienced freshman and then, just like that, you're at your graduation ceremony receiving your diploma ready to take another giant leap into the world.

Adam

Dear Adam, You wrote a letter to yourself at the end of junior year and opened it the summer of your senior year. This won't go back in time, but one purpose of reflecting is to act as if I'm actually talking to my former self so that I learn the lesson I'm trying to impart. I want to ask you some questions. Why did you only apply to two colleges? What changed from junior year when you wanted to apply to ten colleges? The purpose of these questions is not invoking an answer. The purpose is to inspire thoughtfulness. You react quickly to your impulses and lack self control. You avoid difficult obstacles and consider time a burden. My advice to you is to take a breath, momentarily stop time, and think. You are smart, and thinking is the best way to understand your values and adhere to personal principles. You are distracted by high school, but time goes on and the decisions you half heartedly make will catch up with you in a present moment one day. You can't avoid this, but you can prepare for it. That's how you can be content.

Matthew

Throughout my senior year of high school, I was bloated from the high marks I received in Honors Calculus, Marine Biology, and AP Computer Science. I concocted the notion that I was a scientist, and I was going to cure cancer with a biomedical engineering innovation. Yet, my true passion has been to become a lawyer. Running from the humanities, I applied to mostly science universities. This is when I should have heard, “Don't forget yourself. You hate science.” If I had received this message, it would have impacted me two-fold. The immediate impact would have been on my college application process. I would have applied to more and or different universities. This would have given me options to contemplate. The lasting effect revolves around class selection. I would have not taken as many science courses in my freshman year of college. Without those courses, I would have had a significant boost to my GPA and increased space for classes I enjoy. I would love the chance to gain a greater degree of happiness and intellectual development. A meaningful difference in my life could have been made with these six words, hypothetically speaking.

Gabriela

Do not think you can do well in college doing the same amount of work you did in highschool! The work that was able to pull you an A in highschool may not even be enough to get you a college C. There are exceptions, but for the most part, you're on your own in college. Teachers won't care if you do well or not as long as they're getting paid. Also, with all the adjusting you'll have to do to your new lifestyle on campus, do not get too distracted. Learn to manage your time effectively from the beginning. There is time for everything, and in the long run, what will matter the most are your grades. But that doesn't mean spend every second of free time you have in the library. You should also get involved in college. Clubs and extracirricular activities will set you apart when it comes time to write your resume. Most importantly, don't just study something that you think will get you money in the future. Find something you love, and with passion and hard work, money will follow. Good luck and enjoy the ride!

Lauren

When I transitioned to college, I forgot to take care of myself. I got so wrapped up in school and my social life that I never took a day to just de-stress, relax, and do something I enjoyed. I was bouncing back and forth between classes, clubs, parties, roommate gatherings, freshman orientations, and everything else I could get my hands on. I loved my new freedom to go out whenever I wanted to do whatever I wanted. I didn't sleep enough and my meals were less than nutritious. I'd eat what was offered at a party or a luncheon with an important staff member, but I'd skimp on dining hall food in favor of fast, unhealthy treats. If I could go back to my high school self, I'd tell her to relax a little. I'd remind her that it's OK to have a day to yourself to just sleep in, read a book or play a video game, and not go out with anyone. It isn't anti social to take time for yourself, and it took me messing up my entire freshman year to learn that.

Skyler

Your life, our life; a perpetual digression, so it seems. In comfort, you’ll understand how our life works. I shall not speak of the necessity of improvement, for there is no need in so. You may perceive your future entity as an empty promise, but I do implore and beseech you, to keep our name dear to your heart; Skyler. We are scholars; we ought to thank our mother for such a Dutching name. My simple speech is that of insurance, continue as you are. Continue writing wooing poetry, your romantic essence will serge from heart to vein, vein to wound, wound to skin, skin to pen, pen to ink, ink to paper. They’ll fall in love, as so will you. You will fall, and then rise, and then to fall again, and rise again. You’ll experience the cycle, as did I. From one Skyler Jon Thayer to another, just do what you do best.

Nesto

Take my time. Be patient and look forward to changes that may come. Look outward but most importantly inward, who you are and where you are going.

Kayla

Throughout high school, I was not provided with the financial support and advice I needed and have learned from my transitioning summer from senior year to my freshmen year of college. If I were to go back in time, I would advise myself to get a credit card and build up good credit, get a part time job, and apply for as many scholarships as possible. While in high school, all I worried about was planning events and passing tests when I should been looking at the big picture of how my future in college is going to be financially impacted by the decisions made at the time. Due to my lack of prior planning, it is now difficult to get a loan without credit and hard to financially support myself as I approach my freshmen year of college. I have to rely on my parents and family members for help when I could have relied on myself if I had planned out my finances. Also, I would tell myself not to sweat small problems and focus on the big picture; my ultimate dreams and aspirations are at stake!

Erika

First I would say, "When the professor says to read the textbook, read the textbook!!" More importantly I would tell meself to save more money and/or work on paying off my student loans.

Jeff

How much time would I have? The most important thing I would tell myself is pick a major you enjoy. Don't pick a major because you think it's what you should do. Don't pick a major because you think its what people want you to do. And don't pick a major because it's what people expect. Down the road you'll realize your mistake, if you even apply yourself to begin with. It's your future and what you want to do with it is what matters.

Samantha

I would tell myself that it is most important to focus on yourself and your grades. I would tell myself that I should have started studying more for my core classes at the beginning of the year. I would also tell myself to constantly review throughout the year that way come finals week, it would be more of a review and refresher than relearning topics. Had I known this, finals week would have been a lot less stressful.

rob

If i had the ability to go back into time and talk to myself, I would first tell myself to keep doing what I'm doing and that I will get somewhere. I would follow that by saying take the time to go visit colleges and meet people, as well as apply to as many scholarships as possibly. Having only applied to two schools and no scholarships, I would be able to go much further with my education if i had listened to both of the sound pieces of advice. I would also tell myself to listen to all advice that is ever given! College is a great place to learn, obviously, but it's also a great place to experience. If i had this advice as a freshman I would've been much further in my studies, been to more social engagements and joined more clubs. Most importantly I'd tell myself to search for this site and fill out this application. We all know what happens if you go back in time and change something that shouldn't be changed!

Danielle

If I could go back in time I would tell myself to apply to a different college because the material at Stony Brook is very difficult and ruining my GPA. I would also tell myself to not trust people as easily because the people at my college are socially awkward and are scared away by people trying to help them. Overall I did not enjoy my first year and hope the years to come are better, but unfortunately you would only know that from experience and for all I know other colleges could be the same.

Muskan

College is considered to be one of the best times of one's life. It is in college where one is exposed to different political views, ethnicities, religions, nationalities, and above all, different people. It is one of the most important phases of your life. It is a phase in which one grows to be a more mature person. If I could go back in time and talk to my own self as a high school senior, I would advise myself to step foot into college with a broad mind so I can welcome new ideologies and thoughts. For the course load, good organization and study skills are extremely important. I will balance my social life and my academic life, making sure that social life does not interfere with my study time. One of the most important things I would consider is the type of classes that I will take. Besides the core classes that are required for my major/minor, I will take other classes that highly interest me. I will give myself advise to join more clubs, volunteer, and participate in extracurricular activities. I will take college as a huge learning experience where I will grow throughout.

Paige

I skipped a year of college right after high school and if i could go back i would tell myself not to because it is wonderful. i love college and could be farther along if i wasent scared that first year out of high school.

Gilad

I would have told myself to not to slack off as much and to be more pressing about my college application.

Brittainy

If I had the opportunity to talk to myself as a high school senior I would have so much advice to give. First, I would tell myself to apply for as many scholarships as possible! Its amazing how much scholarships one can get and they IMMENSELY decrease the amount of those daunting school loans. I would also advise to know your options when registering for classes. Many times I suffered through classes that I didnt really need to take. Speak to your advisors, they are there to help and support you. I would advise myself to take advantage of any tutoring that is offered on campus. Many times I struggled in math and chemistry, not realizing that I had several opportunities to get great help. Most importantly, I would tell myself to relax and ENJOY COLLEGE. Yes, college is about getting a degree and positioning oneself for a career BUT you only get four years of college. Dont rush to graduation and enjoy it while you can because when you graduate, LIFE HAPPENS! Join clubs and/or sororities, gain lifetime friends, obtain experience through on campus internships and jobs. Have fun.

Amy

I would tell myself to not be so shy and once I got to college to be more active my freshman year. I should join more clubs and be more open with people and talk to them. That way I'm able to make friends easier and not rely on one person continuously introducing me to people and I can make my own friends, which I did eventually. But I should have done it from the beginning.

Nicoya

I would definitely have to tell myself to not even second guess the decisions I made about career choice and college choice. Since kindergarten, as my year book from that time states, I have always wanted to be in the medical field and when in High School I did think about changing that career path. With changing that path I thought about changing my first choice for a secondary education which was Stony Brook University, the college I attend. Now that I have finished my first year and I feel more positive than ever that the medical career, more specifically Developmental Psychiatry, was the right choice. Along with choosing this amazing school. I would have to go back and tell myself not to worry about feeling alone and left out because the amount of new friends that I have made that feel like family took those feelings away in an instant. I was worry about course work then but not anymore. I will now be able to reassure myself that I can do this all the way to the finish line because I successfully made it past stage one.

tamar

I am now 10 years out of college and in the workforce. I am a mother and I am bogged down with bills that make paying for my doctoral degree next to impossible. I would have told myself to take time off after high school to work in two or three fields of interest, to help me get to know myself better and help me have a career focus. I would have advised myself that the true value of college is not the social and campus life, but rather the skills I would come out with upon graduation. I would also advise myself that no matter what career I pick, my focus should be realistic and about making positive change in the world rather than wanting to be a hero who saves the world. This way, I won't be overwhelmed or disappointed when real life shows me that I am only human and can't fix everything. I should steer my focus more on making small successful changes and looking for the fruit that even small changes can make.

Corinne

Try to make more friends. A social life is important.

james

I would advise myself to accomplish more, especially to improve my grades. Considering my high school had a very good reputation, if I had put a little more effort into myself I would have been able to achieve more.

andreyah

The number one thing I would tell myself to take more seriously is the scholarship search. Paying for school out of the pocket was difficult and I was not paying attention to the stress it may cause while I was breezing through my senior year. I would also tell myself to enjoy the easiness of high school life to the fullest. College is that major step that brings one closer to the hardships of adulthood, financially and responsibility wise. I know that my senior self did not try to enjoy high school as much as she should have, but looking back on it I know that I should have. Myself as a senior probably would have appreciated knowing that financial preparation is just as important as academic preparation.

Rachel

Although you got straight A's in high school to maintain a 4.0 GPA, you will have to study HARD to get straight A's. But professors wiil note your hard work and your drawing talent and constantly commend you.

Deanna

If I could talk to myself as a high school senior, I would convince myself to look for scholarships and internships early. The reason why I didn't attend the school I wanted was due to financial restraints. Although I recieved some financial aid, it wasn't enough. If I had started searching and applying for scholarships earlier, my dream school might have been affordable. Internships are a valuable way to gain experience. Since I already knew what my dream job is, a corporate lawyer, I should have made efforts to look into internships in a related field. By doing so, it would give me a competitive edge over other political science students and would also help me create valuable networking opportunities.

Ella

I have gained knowledge about the job market, as well as of the science world. Also, i have learned about the importance of contributing to ones society,not only by volunteering, but by using ones knowledge efficiently and correctly to execute the skills one has gained. My college experience so far has been very valuable because it taught me how to be independent, and be responsible for myself and my actions. Also it taught be the importance of enjoying every day but at the same time considering my actions and th eoutcome they might have on my future.

Sarah

My experience at Stony Brook has been indescribible. My professors, most notably, my anthropology professor last semester, have encouraged me, been there at any point in time where I needed extra help outside of class. This has led me to have a great relationship with some of the professors in my major department. They have been so influential, so encouraging, so ready to listen and give advice, that they were some of the poeple whom helped me make a decision on the career I have decided o pursue. Because of their help and guidance I feel secure knowing that I can become a forensic anthropologist, that highly respected anthropologists in their own right, believe in me, believe that I can be one of them. Their encouragement and advice has been invaluable to me and I can only hope to be such a mentor to students when I am in their position.

Samuel

My college experience has led me to understand that people are so much more different when you are actually living with them as opposed to just going to classes with them. Also i understand that in order to maintain educational integrity I not only have to work hard but to devote myself to doing that work as diligently as possible.

Classie

What I have gotten out of my college experience, is how to give my future patient’s the best care that they want and deserve. I have also learned how to be more optimistic whether the situation is good or bad for the patient. Going through college helped me to gain my independence and it helped me to mature. I believe that with my college experience I have gained charisma. The main thing that I gotten out of my college is that hard works pays off at the end of the day. What has made my experience so valuable for me is, knowing when I graduate, that every day I will have impacted someone’s life in a great way for them to hopefully have a successful recovery. My college education is so important to me because I was not able to attend school in the fall because I did not have the money which made me have to find a job which I am not happy with. It showed me how important my degree is to finish and what jobs I will be eligible for if I do not obtain this degree, I am very determined to work hard

Gemma

I have been able to truly explore all regions of my academic interests, and have been presented opportunities that I would not have received had I not attended college, such as emoployment, internships, and rewarding volunteer programs.

Rami

My college was experience was very beneficial and worth while and I am very glad that I attened. The two main things I received from my undergraduate college experience was a good academic background and knowledge, and I also made a lot of good friends and aquiantaces. I am very proud my academic achievements from my undergraduate college. I graduated in June of 2010 with a 3.78 GPA and acquired departmental honors. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Political Science, and I minored in Peace and Justice Studies. I learned quite alot in college, which I hope to use in my future career goals and aspirations. I plan on attend graduate school in the spring of 2011 studying Public Policy. I am very proud of all my academic accomplishments and the professors were very nice and cordial. They were very open to providing academic assistance to all students, and I found that very helpful. The main thing I received from my undergraduate was a good work ethic and the nowledge I need for graduate school and for my future career; whcih will be in public policy and the political arena.

Kaitlin

The best part about attending college is the independence and social experience. You learn to do things on your own , at first it is a bit scary being by yourself and not having anyone to depend on. After a little while that fear leaves and you are a stronger and more confident person beacuse of it. The people you meet at college is also a great experience that everyone should try, there are all different kinds of people out there and you never know who you will come across. At my current university there is an overwhelming sense of belonging, everyone is there for the same reasons and not once have i ever felt left out or out of place. The people are nice and the atmosphere is welcoming. It is worth every penny.

Mariya

I am learning alot and am able to take a variety of classes.

Rheannonn

I have learned in college more about myself than I would have otherwise. It's been a crash-course in me. Living at home, you always have a safety net, some place to return to. Here, you have to go out and find that net before you can use it. I suppose that is the most important thing that I have learned about since starting college. The academics are really really important, don't get me wrong. But college seems to be more about taking those academics, and finding the you that can use them appropriately.

Jessica

The main thing I have gained from my college experience is experience. I now better understand some of the workings of the corporate office and this has helped me to transition into a higher working level. I am no longer considered "entry level" and my supervisor has seen that I am incredibly dedicated to my future. Going back to school was the best decision I ever made and I am eternally grateful for the lessons I have learned that have benefitted me and will continue to benefit me for the rest of my life.

Nathaniel

I have recieved a whole new life from college. I have met many possitive influences and learned how to be self-relient and responsible. I have been through a rough life as teenager and college has given me a great oppurtunity to make something great of myself. I am currently at a community colllege but i plan on transferring to a university. The degree i plan on earning will take quite a while to achieve and unfortunately i am extremely tight on funds. Any scholarship i can recieve will greatly help me on this acedemic journey.

Cassandra

While I haven't been in college very long (less than 1 semester), I feel like it has already been a life changing experience to me. I grew up in a town with a population of 1000 people. This town was almost all caucasian christains, leaving me with a less than stellar cultural intelligence. Coming to SBU I have learned about so many different cultures and feel more well rounded because of it. I believe that the diversity here is one of the best selling points of the school and I would speak highly of this university to anybody. Aside from that, SBU is helping me realize my dream of being a marine biologist and is pushing me one step closer to acheiving that life goal. So far I appreciate all the opportunities that college has to offer me and I look forward to the next 6 years that I will be spending here.

Kathrine

I have learned much about mathematics and education throughout my attendance at Stony Brook University. I have been given the opportunity have meaningful conversations with professors who are well known in the mathematics world. I have also been given the opportunity to explore other areas of interest through elective courses and extra-curricular activities. I have been able to create long-lasting friendships and important connections to the mathematics education field. By attending Stony Brook University I have been given the opportunity to succeed professionally. Upon leaving the University I will be confident that I am prepared to educate and guide young minds. I am grateful of the opportunities that the University has provided for me have a happy and successful future.

Natsumi

College expereince is not simply to learn new subjects or ways of thinking but also interacting with people. What one learns in class is important but the connections you make in those classes are equally important as well. I learned new ways of thinking, gaining skills and ideas but steps in overcoming the wall of my anti social behavior. It may help that I truly enjoy school but attending classes and participating and in class activities I have been able to express what I think. I have slowly but surely been able to put forth my ideas and views to other instead of sitting and saying nothing. I have gained more confidence and social skills needed to interact with my peers expanding my inter and intrapersonal skills. Attending college is a valuable experience not just for the schooling but for the social experience as well.

Jessica

So far, I've gotten more than I thought I would out of my college experience. I've learned proper techniques for treating patients and I've learned more about being a professional and using teamwork to get things done than I ever have before. This alone has made it very valuable for me because these are the things I'm going to need to know once I graduate and get out into the field and am able to use my skills. Everything I've been taught and will be taught are all necessary and are all very useful and important. I'm very happy that my college incorporates all this into its curriculum and that the students get the best training so that they're ready to do things on their own when it's time.

Jian

I believe that this cliche is very true, "Life is what you make of it." The quote also deduces that college is also what you make of it. Earlier in the school year, I was afraid to meet new people because I am an introvert. I did not make any friends the first week until club fair day arrived. I registered for a few clubs. As time passed, I attended their meetings and met new people. I became more sociable and currently has a group of close friends. I strongly believe that attending college is the first step to independence. Especially if you are going to live in dorms, college is all about balancing your own classes, work, study, and party. Any imbalance would cause unneeded stress. College is also valuable to attend because you get to live away from your lecturing parents. Over time, I realized how much I missed them and the things they do for me makes me appreciate them more. College is fun.

Tara

What can I say about college that hasn't already been said? I believe that it is everything that it's cracked up to be; it's a perfect way to learn about living on your own, it's a perfect place for kids to grow up and take responsibility for their own selves and their actions, it's a perfect place to party. There's nothing like college; it is an experience in and of itself that no one could possibly understand as well as someone who has experienced it for themselves. I would never recommend that anyone pass up going away to college, mainly because there's nothing else like it. Four years of learning, partying, and just living...I believe that you'll learn more in college than you will during any other time in your life, and if that's not valuable, then I don't know what is.

shailee

In some peoples eyes, they view getting a college education as an expensive burden uneseccary to achieve. Today I am ashamed to say that my first year of college ended a few weeks after it started because of the same poor prespective. After a few months of experienceing life as a "looser", I realized that I was so stupid and there was no way I was going to end up like the people I was associating with. Education isnt just a way to increase earning potential, its also apart of the human life. Without it you still learn from experiences but why would anyone want to limit themselves to only that! This year I was so excited to start school that I couldnt wait for summer to end. Part of being human should include taking every opportunity to learn more and more. My view of college now is completely different. It is valuable for its important role in helping me exceed the "natural man". Even though the price of attending college is expensive, the value you get out of it can not be placed at any price. Instead it remains an experience that provides you with unlimited blessings and opportunities.

Heather

Before attending Stony Brook I went to a community college and I didn't really know what direction I wanted to take. When I recieved my Associates degree, I knew that I wanted to continue my education. Attending Stony Brook University has really pushed me into a direction in life. The teachers and faculty members at Stony Brook Univeristy know how important it is to succeed and have a good education, this is why the course work is challenging, there is a low tolerance level to failure and there is always so much to learn. Research is highly encouraged and there are so many different oppourtunities for anyone who wants to do research to get involved with it. When I got involved in a Psych research lab at Stony Brook, I was so excited to be apart of something so valuble. I learned in a different way that helped to open up new doors for me and push me even further into a carrier goal. I am now so excited to be graduating in December with a Bachelors in Psychology and I cannot wait to further my education by going to grad school and possibly even a Ph.D. program.