SUNY College at Potsdam Top Questions

I would tell myself that it is okay to branch out and meet new people. The worst thing you can do is get stuck in a friend group in which you can't be yourself. Do not settle. You can always be nice and say hi to the nice people you meet, but don't settle just because they are nice people. Find the people that make you laugh so hard you start crying. Be brave and try new things. It is okay to do things by yourself. College is a time for new adventures, so go out and try whatever you want to!

Stop being lazy! To be honest didn't care about school nor did I try. I was lazy and I just got by with everything I did. I didn't even think I was going to college until my senior year. I expected to be a used car salesman just like my father. Knowing what I know now about college if I can go back in time I would defidently give school my all. Sitting in chemistry class I have to work twenty-times harder then the person next to me because I didn't learn the basic terminology that you learn in highschool. It's hars for someone to feel like they don't fit in with others. That is the way I felt when i first came to college. The transition was really hard for me. If I could do it all over again I would.

I would tell myelf that this transition is going to be one of the toughest things you have ever done, but you shouldn't worry about it because in the long run you will be able to provide for your family and make them proud. I would also tell myself that just because you are independent now, you should learn how to use your time wisely and make sure to concentrate on your studies. A life lesson that you should keep in your mind always is that friends come and go but your family is always there for you because there will always be people who don't like that you are succeeding further than them. I would advise to join clubs based on your own interests not other people because you never know if you find friends.

The best advice I could give my high school self is to not be afraid, embrace all that college has to offer, and be confident in your abilities. I know now that I am capable of so much more than my high school self expected. I would tell that scared, timid girl to break out of her shell and do as much as possible. Above all, I would say to my younger self, remember to write. Write all the time. I was a writer in my heart before going to college and the professors at SUNY Potsdam helped me to become a great writer. I would tell my younger self that the writer you long to be is trapped inside that shell and when you embrace it with confidence and passion you will accomplish so much. So, to that timid girl who was teased for reading rather than doing what all the other kids were doing, keep going, keeping reading and writing because it will all be worth it in the end. Remember to be you no matter what others say and keep writing.

I would have a long discussion about money. When I left college I had no credit, which is better than bad credit, but not helpful when trying to buy big ticket items like a car. I would tell myself to get a credit card and a wallet with a special pocket in it. The card would come out of the pocket for gas and go right back in again after. Making simple purchases and paying the credit would have slowly built my credit score over the years. Also I would tell myself to save money. When I was in college any extra money was spent on beer or cigarettes. I wouldn't say I abused either of these but when I look back and think about how much money I spent on them it seems like a huge waste, especially because neither is a significant part of my life anymore. There are ways to have fun without spending money and I would tell myself to explore those options.

My advice to my high senior self would fall somewhat outside the common demeanor of thought. Even though college is a huge leaping stone in a person's life, I believe that directing one's focus towards the future will cause this person to miss out on what the present has to offer. Sure, receiving extremely high grades and getting a top score on the SATs may get you into that top school, but there's so much more to life than just a number on a test. When we wake up and step into that school for seven hours of our day, that footstep resembles this person learning the necessary skills to progress through life as we know it. The number that one receives on their report card does not resemble oneself. Rather, the progression of a person's skills and relationships with others is what drives a senior to excel in life after high school. As I always say, "High School is not defined by what is written in an English or History book, but rather the messages that are conveyed in between these lines." This is the most vauable education one could ever receive before entering college.

I would tell myself to truly listen to our teachers in high school. They were not lying when they said they were just trying to prep us for college. Also, start studying because in college there are some classes that you will not pass if you do not study for tests and quizzes. I personally am not a partier but for my friends I would make sure to let them know they better be able to balance both their social/party life and their academic life or they will fail out (like one of my friends did this year).

These Rules or more like Guidelines, will get you through College: 1) Your roommate may seem unbearable at times, but trust me, she will be one of your best friends and closest confidents. 2) DO NOT buy your textbooks....they're like unneccesary and you can easily get them through inter-library loans. 3) Never buy a dell laptop, they break consistentley (just ask your future roommate). 4) Don't give a guy the time of day unless they're gonna take you out on a date off campus. 5) Do not take any classes with Dr. Wetts. He's both a horrible teacher and person. 6) Eat healthy and exercise regularly! Trust me you will go down in sizes and you're gonna look great no matter what your do!!!! 7) The friends you're gonna make are really awesome and quirky! And they will always be there for you when you need them. 8) This one is really important!!! You're gonna graduate a year early and not know what to do with your life. It will all work out and maybe it's best to stay in school all four years since your friends will be there.

I would tell myself to study for at least 30 minutes every night. I would also tell myself the best way to manage my time.

Having gone to a wonderful college prep school I would simply reasure myself that my high school education would indeed be so very helpful when it came to going to college. I would have told myself not to be so scared to go off to college! I would also have warned myself that there is not as much money out there to pay for college as teachers made it out to be.

In college, you can be who you want to be. You have the opportunity to be a leader, make a difference, and be the best you can be. You can excel no matter who you are, where you come from, and no matter what you want. You learn what you want in your life - in all areas, not just career oriented ones. You learn who you ARE and who you will always be. You learn what is most important to you and what you want to fade into the background. You grow up, but not in a sad way. It is a completely rewarding experience. College is the perfect blend of your past, present, and future. You make friends, you gain a new community, but most of all, you find yourself. It's valuiable to attend because of career opportunities after, but also because it is a self discovering journey that is important to everyone, no matter who you are.

Through out my last semester, I have grown as person. I am no longer a high school student, I am now a part of something much bigger. SUNY Potsdam is like one big community, and I have never felt more welcomed in my life. I have learned that you can always find the good in a person. Though we all have our flaws, deep down there is a part of us that means well. Through group seminars, I have learned that you should give every one a chance, and that you should never judge with out knowing the person. The school teaches about diversity, and teaches us to embrase the differences in one another. We have a whole weekend devoted to diversity, and I got to learn about places and people I had never heard of before. You learn of their culture and their way of living. It really is truly fascinating, and made me want to learn more. This school has taught me to see the beauty in everything, whether art, a performance, liturature, or the way one expresses themselves. I feel as though this school has opened up my eyes, and helped me see the world more clearly.

After working so hard to become college ready, most people could not understand why I chose not to enroll in college after graduating from Holy Names High School in 2008. I applied to a few colleges but my heart was not in it. After a six month break from academics, my desire to go back to school was stronger than ever. I was eager to get back into a classroom and learn! In the spring of 2009, I enrolled in my local community college, Contra Costa College (CCC). CCC has been a valuable resource to me. It has allowed me to move forward academically while giving me time to mature and to make some very important decisions for myself. While CCC did not offer me the experience of dorm life or typical college sports, it did offer me the coursework required to transfer to a four year institution. CCC has provided me with the academic foundation to pursue a higher education. With the skills that CCC has instilled in me, I am now ready to transfer to a four year institution, bring my education to the next level, and see what the future holds for me!

After my fist year of college, I began to realize how important it is to take things in life seriously. I began to see the world through a different perspective, and rather than attending college because I had to, I started thinking along the lines of attending college because I wanted to learn more. I never thought that I would be aiming for a goal of taking more than one major, and trying to fit in as many classes as possible into each semester until college showed me that there is more to education than just learning essentials about a potential career. College has been a huge value for me to attend because it showed me that, while I can never know everything, I want to strive to know as much as possible, even the things that I do not have to. It showed me the true meaning of knowledge, and in the process, made me a more responsible and aspiring student.

My college experience has offered me a chance to experience the carreer I want while I'm still studying my degree. SUNY Potsdam offers many observation and interern oopurtunities in the teaching field. You have to complete two practicums in a school, and student teaching before you graduate. Besides those there is mentoring oppurunities and other optional practice with teaching. SUNY Potsdam also has many clubs, and i have gotten to participate in the running of three different clubs. I also have been working in my SGA (student government) and the school offers leadership confrences that help you gain skills for the work place.

I have gotten a lot out of my college experience. I have grown so much through my experiences. I have had some of my best memories during my years at college. I will cherish the times I shared with my friends and professors. I?ve learned a lot from them inside and outside of the classroom. Whether it?s finishing a paper on time, being in my college's fashion show or studying abroad I have changed for the better. These experiences made me more responsibility, outgoing and confident.

For me, college so far has shown me some amazing opportunites. I have been able to meet many different kinds of people from all over the world for different reasons. I have met actors, scientists, historians, I even learned how to spin a rope from a Chinese circus artist. So many things have happened because of college. I been able to open up more in social situations, I have gained confidence that I lacked before in my ability to handle situations, I have grown as a person and an artist. Most importantly, I have discovered my love of learning. Every single class I have taken has taught me more than what is outlined in the course syllabus. With each class comes fellow students and an instructor. And in each person there is a different viewpoint and experiences. It helps us all to learn when we can see the problem at hand from other peoples viewpoints. Sometimes, I only was able to grasp an idea because someone elses vantage point. To me, college is more than an education, it is about learning how to be around other people and learning to absorb as much as possible when you can.

I have found myself in attending SUNY Potsdam. By going away to school, I was able to break free from high school and create a new name for myself, something I have greatly enjoyed. Meeting new people and making new friends has been great. Everything I have experienced at SUNY Potsdam has been wonderful, and I've learned a lot of good life lessons.

I am currently attending Anthem College in Beaverton OR. It is one of the best experiences i have had the teachers and staff are very supportive and do everything possible to make sure you succeed. Its a family atmosphere and its an open door policy with and of the staff members from the counselors to the dean of education. I love that they not only teach you your core classes but they also prepare you for the professional world.

Beginning college after some traggic times in my life was the best decision I could have ever made. This was such a wonderful college that helped boost my spirit and gave me a stronger sense of self. I raised three children on my own for several years and continuing college at SUNY Potsdam has been a blessing for my family. My oldest son will be graduating from high school in June 2010 and now he is deciding to pursue his education into this college also. He has seen the strength and wisdom I had gained from my duration within this beautiful college and he wants to have the same. Education no longer appears to him as a chore but as something fulfilling and enlightening. SUNY Potsdam has not just brought me progress and education but a sense of peace that my children believe that if I can still struggle with obsticles and make it, so can they. It was a win, win situation due to my choice of attending SUNY Potsdam.

College has been a frustrating experience but has helped me to see being exceptionally bright in high school holds equivalence of average in college. I have learned in my third semester you must stay above the game. Meaning always strive for successes in every homework assignment, every lecture, everything you take time to learn never forget. In college there is always something new to learn and a new teacher to learn from, so adjusting is frustrating but necessary. Work very hard, high school was easy because the teachers taught to the average student -college, you?re on your own -sink or swim you?re paying for it and if you?re like me and don't receive financial aid there is not enough money for... OOPZIES! Success was something that would come in the future- success was a dream that I was slowly building up for myself. But entering into a state college makes success feel like every day is pulling me closer and closer to my dreams and unselfish aspirations. From high school to a college student I have learned hard work is not optional and because I have understood that concept, I will be successful in the future.

When I started college in 2002, I was terrified. I figured that I was going to have the same experience as I did in high school; I would be laughed at for asking questions and made fun of for trying too hard to fit in. At the start of my college career, I told myself that I was going to focus on my studies and let everything else fall into place. That is the best thing that I could have done. I was able to enjoy schoolwork and the people around me while discovering my true self. My college experience as well as professional experiences while in college have molded me into the strong person that I am today.

I strongly believe that you get back what you put in to college. We are a single income family, so broadening my career horizons, allowing me to earn more income for my family, is essential. A few weeks ago, one of our neighbors had an explosion in their home. This sparked a fire that destroyed our home and everything in it. We lost every possession we owned. This event really did a few things for me. It made it all that much more important that I continue my education so that some day we can afford to replace the things we lost to the fire. The fire also made me very aware of an existing need to care for people who are injured, but specifically, by fire. People suffering from burns require a lot of care, and who is more capable of understanding their needs, but some one who has been through a similar ordeal. Through all of this, I have managed to maintain a 4.0 GPA. The teachers at my college have made this possible. Their teaching process is so easy to understand. Through this process, my college has given me a future; a better future.

My experience at SUNY Potsdam has been a rich one. Living on campus has exposed me to many different ideas and lifestyles, and I believe that my view of the world has been greatly expanded. The value of education here is great, but even the professors and staff stress going out and living life, encouraging students to take acceptable breaks from studying and writing papers to go out, have fun and relax. Typically, professors will encourage many school-based events that are applicable to the subject matter we're studying in class. This tends to give people a break from the classroom setting, while still encouraging them to learn without someone lecturing at them. The classes can still incorporate a heavy workload at times, but they're still relatively stress-free. It's almost relaxed, while still keeping the expectation that you will try to learn the subjects. Overall, the atmosphere is what has made this such a valuable college experience.

An education so I can obtain a well paying job.

Assuming i had the chance to go back in time and speak to myself as a high school student, the most important thing i would tell myself is that i can do it. Upon coming into college the fear of failure is lerking aroud every corner. The classes require more input than in high school but you are capable of completing each with the best of your ability. High school classes and teachers try to get you ready to enter the new enviornment and be able to coop with the changes. The self doubt is what drives you to do the best you possibly can and allow for improvement on topics you thought you knew. Overall, the fear of not knowing how well youll be able to do once finally enrolled in classes is scary and nerve racking. However, there is no need to worry every second of the day because there are people willing to help and further your success. Thus, i would tell myself that it is possible for me to accomplish my goals and not fear the transition from home to college.

Looking back and being able to talk to myself as a high school senior would be immensely helpful. I would tell myself to think rationally about finances for college and to ignore the pressure to declare a major right off the bat. Instead of jumping right into a four-year college without a defined plan, which I did, I should have taken the chance to attend a two-year community college free of charge on account of my good grades. This would have given me time to feel out different career paths and make a sound decision concerning a major. Also, I wouldn't have to be concerned about paying back student loans quite as soon. I would reiterate to my high school self that doing what you love is the most important thing in life, and no one can tell you what makes you happy except you. Truly, if I had this opportunity to go back in time and talk to the younger me, it would have made a huge, beneficial difference in my life.

I would tell myself to not give up. I was rejected from Crane, and had to work really hard my first semester at SUNY Potsdam to get in, but I did it. I would tell myself not to lose hope, because the first semester is the start of something wonderful and life changing. I would not tell myself about my ex-boyfriend, because even though I was in a depression for two month after he dumped me, it helped make me into the woman I am today. I would tell myself to have fun and enjoy the first semester. I would be very careful what advice I gave, because through my many mistakes I became a better, stronger woman. My last piece of advice would be to be strong and brave, because I went through a lot of tough times, but in the end they have all been worth it.

I have an advice that I gave to myself: Have fun, keep your mind on the books, get awesome grades, and don't think for one minute that you're going to give up everything you've worked hard for.

I would tell myself to look into financial aid optoins more thoroughly before going to college because if I had I would possibly be going to college for free. Other than that, I would tell myself to be myself and by doing that I will find life long friends. By being myself and giving others a fair chance I have made some of the best friends I have ever had in my life and have had a very positive experience.

Learn how to study. Many High School students get by with decent grades without actually studying- but find they don't really know how to study and learn material when they are in college, where the classes are much more challenging. Get involved in campus activities as soon as you get to school. They help you make friends and build a support system. Study abroad. There is no greater teacher than to go out and experience the world, gaining infinite perspective. Keep in touch with your family. Now that you're out of the house you just might find that it's easier to talk to your parents, siblings, etc. You don't want to lose those connections; now is the time to build real adult relationships that will last forever. Don't let a romantic relationship consume your life and govern all your decisions. You will lose yourself in that relationship and down the road might just look back and realize you didn't get to do everything you wanted to during the best and most important years of your life.

Since I am an aspiring athlete I would advise myself to attend a college which would best assist me in achieving my dream of becoming a professional athlete. I have attended the State University of New York at Potsdam with the purpose of recieving an excellent education, but the athletic aspect has been a major short-coming. I would advise myself to find an equally excellent education at a different school with a better athletic program.

Okay, so when you get there you're going to be scared and unsure of how to meet friends. You won't have curfews & someone will invite you to a party. If you go, be safe. Go with somebody you trust. There'll be alot of activities to do on & off campus, don't hesitate to join a group of interest, or at least go to one of their meetings to learn what they're about. If you don't participate in the extracurriculars you'll miss out on alot & partying is not what really matters. Develop & create who you want to be, forget about popularity contests, make the most of your education, you're paying for it. Money issues might stress you out, but online resources, the financial aid office & FAFSA will help. It's worth it to take a chance, see where it can bring you, who you will meet, & what you will learn. This is the time of your life, live it to the fullest. Try, if you fail, try again, learn, ask questions & introduce yourself to others, they're just as intimidated by you as you are of them. You will look back and be proud.

Keep in mind that college is only four years. It is important to get out, explore new things and take chances to meet friends. Your college friends are your family, so try to stay out of petty drama, although, it is unavoidable. The best way to avoid conflict is to communicate. Don't worry about not fitting in; there are enough people on campus where you will find your clique. Choose a college based on the overall atmosphere rather than just academic programs. Academic programs are very important, but if you aren't happy with the energy of the campus, you may not get the most out of college. Don't worry about not knowing what you want to do in life, just get into an academic program that is challenging and interesting. Learn to leave your comfort zone and explore the world because soon you will be in the real world and will not get as many chances as you will now.

College is not about drinking/ partying. It is about growing into a responsible adult who will contribulte positively to society, and learning the most you can about your occupation to give back as much as possible. Remember to take a break once in a while from academics and make friends- they can help relieve some of the stress you are feeling, but never forget why you are truly at college. Do not pick a college based on what your friends are doing: Do what feels comfortable and safe to you. Pick a school that fits your needs and where you can see yourself livng and growing. Do not be afraid to go to a local school until you can figure out what you REALLY want to do.

Apply everywhere, visit everywhere you get accepted, choose the college that suits you (not just your wallet) and have a blast there!

It's not necessarily the reputation of the major or academic program to look into, but the ability to make the most of what's given to you. Even if the school doesn't offer many social activities, it is possible to find people and activities to participate in. Be yourself and be relaxed and open to the possibilities and opportunities around you. Take advantage of off-campus studies, be social, and don't be afraid to venture into the surrounding towns and country side! You will be surprised how much more you will enjoy your college experience if you enjoy the outdoors and get to know the town and locals!

Take a tour of the campus before applying (do it during the school year to see the students out and about)

Choose a school based on its academic merits, but also take into consideration it's proximety to home, the weather conditions of the town and just the overall feel that you get when you walk onto the campus. Gut feelings really say something about what you're feeling, even if you can't put it into words. Also think about the size you want in a school. That's really important. You're the one attending the school, so you have to do whatever's right for you, even if others scoff.

Find out as much as you can about each school before you make your decision. Go to their website, visit the school, talk to students; get an overall feel for what life is like there. As for making the most of the college experience, don't let fear hold you back. Going to a new place and being on your own for what is probably the first time can be terrifying. But don't let it keep you from branching out. Engage in extracurricular activites, join clubs, meet new people. It'll be scary at first, but believe me, it's worth it.

My advice is to get general education requirements from a community college, as they will most likely all transfer and is a lot less expensive. I would advise against taking very many field related courses, as they will more than likely not transfer very well. The Best thing to do is to figure out what 4-year school you want to go to, and check the transfer tuation. And of course once in school do not waste your money; take as many classes as you can handle and go to school to get an education, not a party life. That does not mean no fun at all, just have consideration for those who are paying out of pocket to give you an education.

Make sure a choice college provides the right physical as well as academic environment conducive to your optimum learning experience and maximum success

Truly consider whether your child should become dependent/independent. I sometimes wonder if I might actually fare better if I were to remove myself from my parents (their income is too high for me to be awarded with financial aid, yet they won't pay for a dollar of tuition). Make sure that when you find the right college you are involved with clubs. Clubs and organizations are great ways to network and meet great people (friends and professional references).

I think that it is important that the student visits the college before they decide to go there. While there, the student should talk to professors in the field that they are interested in so that they can get a feel of how the department is run. Students could also see if they are able to get contact information from alumni that graduated from the field that they are interested in so that they could contact them and get their views on the program and the school. While at college, I would suggest to become as involved as possible to make the most of the experience. I have been involved in about 15-20 clubs and organizations while at SUNY Potsdam. I have been the President of our Greek Counsel for the last two years and that has given me many skills that will help me in the future. Getting involed will make the college experience much more memorable. Lastly, studying is important. You go to school to learn, so while you're there, learning new things will benefit your life much more then skipping class and disregarding your work. ILOVESUNYPOTSDAM!

Pick a college that has a major that you want and offers classes that fulfills that major completely. Look for a school that is comfortable for you, and be truly honest with yourself about what you want. I personally HATE dorming, but am getting through it until I can find off-campus housing. Think about what you want in a school: class size, dorming, location, school size and make that a part of your search. Make sure you visit the colleges you are applying to. Things can sound great in your head, but your mental picutre of the school may be completely different from the actual school. When you walk onto the campus of the school you will attend, you will know it. You feel at home and at peace. You can picture yourself there.

In finding the right college, you have to consider wha tis best for you. Go on open houses and ask questions to see if the campus and it's students go along with your values and ideas. Their are so many differnet colleges out there, so take your time and look for one that has the major/majors you want, the classes that you are interested in taking, and clubs that you would want to join. It's not all about classes thougha nd to make the most of your college experience you have to get involved in clubs, and/or sports. Go to events sponsered by your college, like Comedy Shows, Picnics, Concerts and other activities.

Make sure the college has the right feel for you, a home like feeling where you are not presured or held back from your dreams. Making life long friends, participating in events, clubs, and sports (varsity, co-ed, or just for fun) is worth the college experience and you learn so much both in and out of the class room that everything you learn will benifit you in one way or another. Take every chance you get to explore the world around you and every oppertuinity offtered to you.

I would tell anyone that it is important to do your research prior to choosing schools to visit/apply to. If you have a major in mind, find a school that is known for that field, even if it is a famous school or a rarely heard of school. Know what size you're looking for, and be sure to visit each campus that you may attend, because you will get a feel for the campus right away. You make the most of the college experience by working hard in your courses, and also getting involved with clubs, organizations, and/or performing arts groups. This will be where you make the most friends and remember most of your college experience.

When picking a college don't think of what everyone else says is the most important. Don't think that going to a private school is so much better because they degree is worth so much more no matter how many people tell you. Pick the school that is best for you. Pick the one that you feel comfortable in and can feel like a second home for you. No matter what anyone says feeling like you fit in to your college environment can be more important that the degree it gets you. What degree you get doesnt matter as much as how you use the skills you obtained in your four years at college.

make sure to start looking as soon as possible and visit before making decisions. If they offer the choice of staying at the school before going while students are there take it!