SUNY at Fredonia Top Questions

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

Holly

Don't choose a college based on it's prestige. SUNY schools are just as good as private universities and what's more, you'll make friends and learn things that will last a lifetime. Don't get caught up in what other people will think of your college choice, take the time to do the research and find the best college fit for YOU.

Doreen

Doreen, you are a high school senior now. The entire world lies before you like a wonderful adventure. You don't know that the decisions you make now can affect you for the rest of your life!!! But they can, and I am here to tell you to embrace the future, but keep in mind your goals. Try not to be victimized by your emotions, yearning, and desires. . . . but instead, use those passions to focus on your goals and dreams. Be patient, for all will follow in time, and what seems impossible or hopeless today will sort itself out in time. Remain true to your values, keep in touch with your friends, be open to new ideas. You are a worthwhile individual deserving of happiness. You can enjoy success in whatever endeavors you choose. The world is fortunate to have you in it, and there are many people in your future who will love and value you. Leave the others behind, for they will only cause you to doubt yourself. Let them find their own path, and perhaps some day it will join yours again. Trust in God to guide you; and continue to believe in ;yourself!

Kaitlin

The advice I would give myself is to learn how to juggle a varsity sport, academics, work, friends, and family. It is one of the hardest things to do. Also I would advise to get down to business and adapt great study habits because you do a lot of learning on your own. The teachers are there to help you so ask questions and don't be afraid of them. Your social life is not as important as you really think it is. You have lots of time after college and studies to be a social butterfly. Buckle down during these 4+ years and graduate so you can go out into the world and get a great job.

Jessica

There are so many things that I could change if i were to go back to high school knowing what i know now. Even though this may be I really would not change a thing. To be short, sweet and to the point if I went back and changed things i wouldnt be the person I am today everything has been a learning experience for me. Honestly i would not change that one bit because it has made me the strong person that i am today.

Melissa

I would have saved up more money to bring to college with me. I also definately would have broken up with my boyfriend, who wasn't good for me beforehand and not let someone else lead my life. I lost two to two and a half years of fun and experience because I listened to him and didn't go out and have fun with my friends. I also would have tried to participate more with student government and tried to be more active in fewer groups, but more dedicated to those groups. There are some things that I would go back and try or go to experience that I ran out of time with, like some different on campus activities. I would have been more involved in intramurals earlier and tried different ones. I also would have tried to do my work earlier and hand it in to be reviewed or asked questions instead of just handing it in when it was due. Overall, I wish I used my time there more wisely and enjoyed more, even though I did enjoy a lot as it was.

Elizabeth

You will miss college when it is over, so enjoy your experience and get involved!

Jazmin

The advice I would give myself is to not slack off. To prepare myself for what is coming ahead because I can't rely on my institution to do that for me. I would tell myself to focus srongly on the future and embrace the changes that are coming instead of focusing on the thing I did in the past because they'll only hold me back from my goals. I would tell myself to be confident and go for what I want because those are the people that thrive in college.

Jessica

I would tell myself not to bring too much junk, to try harder on my grades in high school, to be open to meeting new people and to step out of my comfort zone.

Elizabeth

Follow your heart and make your choices based on what you want. Don't let any one else influence your decisions negatively. Make good friends and be willing to work in groups with others and help others. Think about tutoring kids in Physics.

Zachary

Finding the right college is all about the desires and needs of the student. High school seniors/juniors looking at schools need to remember that choosing a school is their choice and no one else can make the decision for them. Parents sometimes like to give their input and try to persuade their child to go to a school that they feel is right for them but the choice that matters at the end of the day is the student. Students looking at colleges should visit them in person, do research on the schools, and talk to counselors and students. The best way to see what a school is like is by contacting a student one on one, so that they can get the real, uncensored, truth about what it is like to go to that school. But all in all, a student will know what school they want to attend when they visit a place and it just feels right to them, no matter what anyone else says. Overall, college is a new beginning where a person can find themselves , discover what they truly love while having a once in a lifetime experience

Aaron

Make sure the school is the right size (in population) and place (urban vs. rural) where the student can feel comfortable meeting people and studying. Also, pick a school that offers the courses that the student will be interested in learning.

Rachel

To parents, my advice would be to help guide your child to make a decision that is best for them; not to sway them towards what you would like to see them do. Give them a fair chance to find themselves as well as the profession that they wish to pursue. Growing up under that constant influence makes it difficult to branch out and act on your own accord.

Tiffany

In choosing a college, i advise you visit it, more so then just getting a walking tour. You need to experience the atmosphere and environment of the school. Most people that i know that were unhapy with their school and/or depressed and could not make friends, where so because they did not "fit in" at the school. You have to spend 2-4 years of your life there, you need to make sure you will enjoy living there and be able to make friends and enjoy your life and time there or you will be unhappy and therefore your school work will suffer. I would also make sure to meet the staff, if possible. I LOVED my professors and that makes all the difference. After all, they will be teaching you and their believes and philosophies about your field will be taught to you over and over. It is important you agree with these and connect with your teacher otherwise your pinion on your field may be changed. You must make sure you know, trust, like, and agree with the people you will be working so close with.

Nicole

The most important piece of advice I would give to parents about finding the right college, is to let their children decide which school is the right fit for them. Students, don't pick a college just based on the programs they offer, look at the community, the people, the extra curriculars. Put some thought into the choice, the school will become your home for the next few years and the people attending will become your family. Don't be afraid of what people will think of you, be yourself at all times, chances are you will learn a lot about yourself if you do. Enjoy the college experience, but don't forget why you are there, stay focused and have fun while doing it! College only lasts so long, so take it in and don't hold back!

Kara

My advice to parents and students about finding the right college is to figure out which school has the major the student is interested in by going online. Then make a list of their top ten choices, and then go on campus tours. Tours are great way to see the campus and get a feel for it. If you do not like just the feeling on campus you know that that place is not right for you. Also on a tour it is a great way to understand what the college's finicial aid policy is. It is also a great way for the students to network and meet some professors and other students on campus.

Scott

I would have it so each major was rated and you could compare it against the average, or have the person accessing the site take a personality test to see how compatable they are with certain colleges.

Kayla

You want to find a college that makes you feel comfortable and has a program that will keep you interested. It also helps to visit around to see what the college has to offer. I would advise that the student get involved in as much as possible because it helps to meet new people and get to learn more. These extra activities and the people that you meet will give you life long memories and experiences that you couldn't get anywhere else. It truly is a great experience!

Christian

Visit all of the colleges that you apply to and plan to apply to. This is very important becuase if you decide to attend one college without visiting it first, and you end up hating the area, campus, etc., then you might have to transfer to a different college and go through the process all over again. And if you visit colleges, you will get a sense of what the atmospheres are like. Plus, you might discover that dream college of yours is the one you really want to go to, or is the one you definitely do not want to apply to. As for your college experience, get involved in at least one club/activity that you are used to, and get involved at least one more that is completely different. This way you will meet different people and make friends. You might even discover you like something new. But do not get involved with too many groups or else your academic work will suffer. Also go some parties to relax and have some fun, but do not get pressured into performing acts you do not want to do. And save the parties typically for the weekends.

Nathan

When finding the right school, the most important aspect is flexibility, both on the part of the school and on the part of the student. Some students go into their college experience with a clear goal, and they know exactly what they want to pursue. They push through, they work hard, and they succeed in their chosen field. From my experience, however, most students don't begin their college experience with such a clear goal. Oftentimes, students entering college either have no idea what they want to purse, or else they find out after a semester or two that they don't like the major they chose quite as much as they thought they would. For this reason I think flexibility is key. A school needs to offer several programs of study, in many different areas. This keeps the student from getting trapped in a dreaded major, with transferring out as their only option. I also mentioned flexibility on the part of the student. This too is crucial. If a student is flexible he can make friends anywhere he goes and he can make important decisions without excessive amounts of stress or worry.

Timothy

Find a college that offers many extra curricular activities that apply to the intended major. These clubs and activities are what make the student go above and beyond the rest. It also creates friendships that will last forever and build up a list of cotacts for future use.

Matthew

In order to make the most of the college experience it is important to create a list of schools that accomodate your academic and professional goals in order to ensure that the first step is the right step toward success. The next step is to visit the schools and see them for yourself. Touring the facilties, dorms and meeting with faculty will help to generate the right feelings so that when you do decide on a college, there will be fewer feelings of anxiety since you have familiarized yourself with it. Once at the school, it is important for the new student to engage in new activities and join a club or two, or perhaps even a sport. By doing so the student is more likely to meet other students that share the same ideas and also expose them to new ones. Socializing makes the transition easier and more comfortable. Once situated with the school, it is important for the student to explore internships and activities that pertain to thier interests so that they can start building up experience in thier related field of study. The most important thing to remember about college: relax, study, and have fun!

Maryanne

I would definitely say to research schools! Don't be afraid to take long trips and visit schools- it's the only way you will get to know what the campus is like and meet with faculty and staff. Shadow a student. Get to know what the classes are like (sizes!) and the faculty and staff. Don't be afraid to ask questions and inquire about extracurriculars, the social life, and especially academics. Making the most out of the college experience requires motivation! Get out and meet people. There are always events going on in residence halls as well as off campus. Just ask! Also make sure to dedicate every night/day to your studying. Start your college career off right by focusing and working hard. Get involved. This is a good way to meet people and network with classmates as well as faculty and staff of the college campus.

Sarah

The best thing I can recommend to prespective students is make sure you visit each campus you're interested in. I thought I had made my decision on one school, then I went there to visit and realized it wasn't for me. The people you're around make all the difference, so getting to see how students interact with each other and how they react to you can really help you decide. These are the people you're going to be with for at least four years, you want to feel welcomed. As far as getting the most of our your experience there, make sure you participate! Don't be afraid to speak up in class. If there's a group you want to join go for it. Introduce yourself to everyone you can and above all be yourself. High school stereo types are in the past, college is more mature and far more accepting. Don't try to be who you think others want you to be, do your own thing and be happy with that.

Nicole

Try to find the right major before heading to college, then pick the appropriate college. Also consider the kind of area and environment desired

Sara

Hang in there. Freshman year is always the worst because it's your first year away from home and you're making your new "family" at college, but it will get easier, better, and more familiar. Good luck and congratulations for choosing to further your education!

Elise

Find a college that fits what you are looking for. Determine what kind of environment you first want to be in- whether that be a small town or a busy bustling city. The type of environment one is surrounded will greatly determine success rate in college. One needs to explore the size of the school and the specific program. I believe small classes sizes are a big part of the success of the student, but it is up to the individual preferences of the student. It is important to truly build a strong relationship with a professor. If at all possible it is good to find a mentor, which will increase one's education tenfold. It is important to love learning, and the more you put into your education, the more you will get out of it.

Katelyn

Unless you are getting a degree to become a doctor, or a lawyer, or something that cannot be obtained from a state school, GO TO A STATE SCHOOL! Nazareth College was my first choice, but I wouldn't receive any financial aid. I ended up going to Fredonia, and I couldn't be happier with the outcome! My four years there were wonderful! I got a terrific education without being completely overwhelmed with student loans.

Tony

You make the choice of what you get out of college. I know a number of people who flunked out because they spent too much time playing video games, or people who had no social life because they spent their time to themselves instead of getting out there and getting involved. Make the most of the best four years of your life.

Christopher

Take into consideration the internship opportunities that the school has, along with the extra-curriculars. If there isn't much to do besides school work than you won't be happy at school.

Megan

I know when I was a senior, making my decision from the colleges that accepted me, the main factor in my decision was ultimately the proximity of my school from my home. I wanted to be far enough to start my own life and experience true independence, but close enough to go home when I really needed chicken noodle soup and TLC. I know now that I wasn't considering alot of important factors. First off, I only paid attention to the campus itself when I visited. I completely neglected to notice that there were only ten stores in the entire town (practically). Also, though a good party scene can seem like a positive aspect to a school when making your decision, you're better off not going somewhere that the social aspect revolves around drinking. Sure it's fun initially and college is as much about experiece as academics, but do you really need that extra challenge? It is harder than high school, it's better too, but partying will hurt your GPA no matter what, even in moderation. Another bit of advice would be to check out ratemyprofessors.com and see how professors in your major stack up.

Katie

Be honest with yourself. If you know you can't be too far away from home, don't go that far. College might not be the last step of your education, or the college you choose may not be the last college you go to, so don't sweat it too much. Have an idea of what's important to you (size, location, educational offerings) it helps to narrow down the search. Also, don't disregard seemingly unimportant interests. For example, if you love sports, don't go to a school that doesn't have an extensive athletic program just because it has good academics. There's most definitely another school out there that has the academics and the sports. College is an experience so its not ALL about the education. If you're open to new people/places/expereinces you'll get a lot more out of college and you'll grow up a lot more too. Regardless of the schooling, this IS one of the best times of your life so be sure you enjoy it too. Also, join clubs, you will meet so many more people that way. = )

Susan

Think carefully about what kinds of things you really enjoy. Although you should let your friends and family give you advice about where to go to college, do not let them push you anywhere. Where you go should be your decision and you should be happy with this decision since. Now you're an adult, and your future is in your own hands. Once you get into college, take time to explore your surroundings and imagine yourself at home and comfortable. Find places that you really like being and keep those places in mind for later. Try to find people who have similar interests as you. Once you make friends, value and cherish them. They'll get you through all the rough trials that you might have to go through during college. Study and work hard, but leave time for yourself. Make sure to do things that you've always loved and find people to do those things with. And don't forget the people back home! It's just a phone call away to hear from the people you miss, and there's no shame in feeling homesick. Good luck! :)

Ryan

Finding a school that has what you want. Social networking, quailty of education, and awareness of important issues that affect students, graduates and the rest of the world

Lesondra

-academics is first, everything else follows thereafter -socialize with good people -Be yourself, don't give into peer pressure: you can make it -stay focused on your goal At times, being by yourself is a good thing!

Trish

It might take a year at a school to realize it's not right. A kid's dream school could turn out to be awful. Just be open to visiting many colleges and to transfering.

Danielle

Always remember that college is not for everybody. If you're feelling forced to go to college then maybe it's not for you. When you find the right college you will know right away. You'll just get a good feeling when you visit the campus. Visiting the campus of the college you are applying to is an excellent idea. If you are not comfortable living on a campus it could be detrimental to your education there. When you find the right college and start attending, make sure you try to be as outgoing as possible. Get to know people and make lots of friends. Also, get involved in clubs and sports. This will help you to get involved with school and you will meet some amazing people. Do all of these things and you are sure to make the most of your college experience!

Kim

Make sure you visit the colleges and talk to current students to make sure the school you choose is one that fits what you are looking for.

Jessica

I can honestly say that the past three years at SUNY Fredonia have been the best years of my life. I am dreading graduating this year because that means I will not get to see my favorite people everyday. The thought of leaving Fredonia devestates me. Fredonia is the perfect size school, I am constantly meeting new people but I always see good friends and familiar faces everywhere. The faculty is very helpful and the class size is intimate, ranging from 15-25 students, with a couple of lecture classrooms. The valuable education, best friends I have made and overall experiences have forever changed me and have shaped who I am today.

Nicole

My key advice is to keep an open mind. I had my heart set on a big campus far away from my hometown but when I wasn't offered enough financial aid, I scrambled to apply to cheaper schools. The school I chose is small and right next to my hometown, but I absolutly love it and I'm so glad that I ended up going there instead of my first choice. And once you get to the school, continue to keep an open mind. College isn't going to be just like high school, but everyone is in the same situation you're in and the more open you are to things, the more you will enjoy your college experience. College allows you to try new things and discover who you are. Without keeping an open mind, you might never discover how to let your inner-self shine.

Brittany

The best advice I could give someone tfor finding the right college for themseleves, would be to not only look at the school program you are going for, but also look at the school in general. The sports teams, the diffrent groups on campus, class sizes etc.. When your through looking at that and after finding some schools that you think you may really like, I would suggest looking at the area that your school is in and what they have to do around the area.. Would you rather be in a city setting or a county setting? Would you rather be in a town where there is alot to do or a small town where there aren't many stores.. All that stuff is important because If you do not like your college experience, it could talke away four years of your life. Also, it is important to remember that sometimes it may work out if you step outside your comfort zone and experience some things you may not of originally wanted to.

Carl

send them to fredonia

Ray

Come to Fredonia, you woun't want to leave. Its seriously a blast!!!

Melissa

As much as the apperance & cost of the college you are interested in affects your decision, your main concern should be what the students think and feel. Before choosing my college i talked to a ton of people i knew from highschool about their favorite things from their college. People take for granted the little things and strictly focus on the degree they are receiving as well as the credibility behind it... which isn't a bad thing to focus on. But what most people loose sight in is the experience. College itself is not just about the grades and the studying, but for those 2-3-4-5(ect) amount of years your attending that school you need to be able to call it "home." Many transfer students decided their previous school was not right for them because they weren't "fitting in" or enjoying themselves. Feeling a sense of belonging is a need that people must meet everyday. Without this, you will hate your college experience. Before settling on a school, set up an overnight visit, socialize with students you pass on the campus, and even find online blogs to discuss the college, it makes all the difference.

Eric

Finding a place is minimal to making the college experience work for you. If the student like the campus, regaurdless of the reasons, go for it. I knew my college was right for me when someone held a door open for me, looked me in the eye, and said "Hello." Something I didn't get at other places. For the student, take a chance on everything: Talk to strangers, apply for an RA job, join a recreational floor hockey league, attend one meeting of the college republicans and college democrats, attend free high arts events, take a road trip with people you barely know, rush a fraternity or a sorority with no intention of joining. You never know who you will meet or what you might enjoy. It is so easy now to relax after classes, play video games and watch TV. I wasted two years doing only those things. It will never be this easy to do it again.

Kevin

For undergraduate, unless you are very capable or have deep pockets, choose a more affordable state school, and if you do well there, then go into a more expensive private school. Find a college that gives you the best feeling upon a visit, the vibes you get from other students there can be a good indicator to what kind of people they are. Check the food and the money provisions, I am poor and hungry right now because I did not plan out completely for that. Look for a school that has a park or body of water near by, I always need a place to go and relax away from the college. People are strange, go where you won't be pressured and can be who you want to be, college is a place to learn more than just schoolwork.

Anne

VISIT THE COLLEGE! You can't tell what the college is like until you go and see it for yourself. As soon as you step onto the campus you'll know whether it's for you or not. The way people are interacting, the facilities available, and the general layout has to be comfortable for you. This is where you will make soo many memories, and get the education you want to move onto better things in life. Don't be scared to ask to sit in on a class and meet the professors they can and will give you great advice. Future students don't get upset when your mom asks that "stupid question" because really it's not only an experience for you, but them as well. Believe me that stupid question will seem like it made all the difference when your down to the final two colleges and deciding which one you prefer to attend.

Kaity

Student: There are two incredibly important things that I can tell you about choosing the right school; A) Choose the one you can see yourself being the happiest at, and B) Don't go there just because your friends are. Believe me, I'm telling you this from the perspective of a student that did just the opposite of these. Your first year will not measure up to what you hope it will be if you do not follow this advice. My first year here was miserable because I expected that living with a friend from high school would be enough to keep me happy. I didn't try to join clubs or meet new people, and that was huge mistake on my part. She went out and had a blast while I bummed around in the dorm. I missed out on so many fun experiences. Another important hint: Don't go crazy with partying. It will ruin your GPA. And lastly, if your dorming, always have plastic ziplock bags, paper towels, and some form of cleaning agent. You'll thank yourself. Parent: Let them have fun. Trust them to make good choices.

Corynn

To parents, I would say to let your child choose the school they think is right for them. Help them with the decision process, make a pros and cons list, and let them decide. Students, look thoroughly through a book of courses offered, and choose what you think is best. If finances are a problem, all schools help so that you can get the education you want. Also make the best out of college. Study, do your homework, ask for help if you don't understand something... But don't just focus all of your time on your school work. You need to go out and make new friends and have fun, because you could make a new friend that helps you decide or rethink what you want to do with your life, and it could be the best thing for you. Have fun and focus and just be yourself.

Molly

Web search a college with different aspects that you're interested, and that gives you a starting point. Take a look at those colleges, taking the cost and location into consideration, and that helps narrow things down a lot. Also, absolutely visit the campus; that can be a definite make or break situation.

Andrea

As a high school senior, it is really hard to know what you want to do with your life. The best advice I could give, based on my own experience, is to go to a school that has a lot of options (as compared to a school that specializes in a certain field). Even if you think you are 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} sure that you know what you want to do, you may change your mind somewhere down the road (you might even change your mind several times). Just go in allowing yourself the time to make up your mind...don't put too much pressure on yoruself. Even if you have to stay in college for an extra semester, it's not the end of the world. Also, don't worry too much about having an "ah-ha" moment or finding your "perfect fit"; sometimes it doesn't work out that way. Just pick a college that has a lot of options and activities and is located in the type of environment you enjoy (urban, suburban, rural) and make the best of it. Because when it comes down to it, the college experience is what you make of it.