Tennessee State University Top Questions

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

Ebonique

I Since I have been in college I have learned a lot about myself and the people around me. I have learned that we all make mistakes and it is not what we did, but what we will do after we have made that mistake. I have learned to care for others and not just for those in Africa, but for my classmate sitting next to me, the person using the computer in front of me. I have learned that I will fail, but with every failure to get back up and try again, work harder. I have learned all this while being in college, and although you can say, “Well, you can learn all this out of college,” yes that is true, but for me this has been my college lesson. College is so valuable because when we are placed in a class with 30-500 people, there are so many different views of life. Where else will I learn to stand up and defend what I believe, or to challenge my beliefs and ask questions.

Tashara

I have gotten alot out of my college experience. College has givien me the chance to futher my education. College has also given me a chance to meet people from many differnent places. My college experience has been very valuable because it has made me a better person as a whole. When I say as a whole I mean mentally and physicially.

Shakayla

School has been extremyl valuable within my attendance. Ive met so many different people from so many different places. Being in college has also helped me grow up in a sense. Since ive been in college, ive taken my education far more seriously. School is not something you should play with. You have to remain focused and remember why your at your school in the first place. You have to rememeber that your paying for your education, and given the opportunity to better yourself as an individual. I would also like to stress how important it is to obtain a high GPA. With a good GPA your opportunities are endless. My first year of college I didnt really apply myself as I should have, and now im suffering the cost.

Miguel

College is a once in a lifetime experience. Some people see college as a means to a better paying job, while others look at it as the start of a new and exciting life changing experience. I see college as a new book waiting to be opened and read. I've been attending college for the past two years and so far it has broadened my outlook on life. My college experience has made me much more independent as well as outgoing. The experience I've gained has taught me that everything in this world is achievable if you work hard and if you treat people with the respect that you’d expect in return. It is by far the most valuable possession I own. College has allowed me to branch out and meet new friends from all over the world, it is why I see college as just the table of contents in the novel of my life. Towards the end of my journey I foresee my experience in college to be a valuable attribute in attaining a well paying job as well as being a key valued member of society. Thank you

Monte`

I have gained a great deal of knowledge in the classroom and about myself. College has opened my mind up to many to concepts and ideas. I have also gained life long friendships through college, not to mention great networking opportunities. If you have the opportunity I suggest you go to college, one can't explain how much your life will change in such a positive manner and how much you will grow as a person.

Martin

BEcause it is a all new experience and you get to learn new things that you never learned before too.

Brittney

What I have gotten out of my experience of attending college is the luxury of having to be on my own and take responsibility for myself and my actions. The mistakes I made my parents couldn't take the blame for or try to cover them up, I had to become an adult and make my own decisions whether right or wrong. It has been valuable to attend college because many doubted that I would survive a month in school let alone a year and yet, I proved them wrong. Attending college gives me a better chance at making it in life and to show my younger sibling that if I can do it, they can also!

dustin

I think my college experience has allowed me to reach to the depths of myself to find motivation and drive to succeed. I have been fortunate enough to have teachers that saw my potential and chose to help me cultivate it. Apart from techical skills taught in college, I believe the purpose of education to be to show students the value of critical thinking skills and how to use them to enrich one's life as well as demonstrate how, with theses skills, much the world can serve them in helping one achieve one's dreams. My college experience has done all this for me. I consider no part of it wasted.

Justin

College can be defined in many different ways to a lot of different people, but for me it was summed up in two words: eye-opening. In high school, I truly believed I knew everything and all of these "mature adults" giving me advice really didn't know what they were talking that. However, when I got to college I soon found out that mom and dad were not around anymore, and there's a little bit more freedom to do what I want. Whether that means that I'm doing great things or messing up terribly. I have been raised in a conservative household, and college was a bit of a culture shock to me. Overall, I learned that I have a LOT left to learn in terms of life, school, love and war! The lessons I learned have been priceless, and I can't wait to see what more I can learn. I hate the fact that something so simple as money could possibly hinder that learning experience for me. If I could get this scholarship...well, there's not really words to express how grateful I would be.

Jacqueline

College is something in life that can either make you or break you. You have to be a certain kind of individual to withstand the financial, educational, and overall life pressure that comes with college. I began attending college as a wide eyes freshmen, with no clue about what was ahead. Quickly I learned that nothing is owed to you and nothing is freely given to you. You have to have serious work ethic, drive, focus and determination to push forward no matter what lay ahead until you receive that degree. Networking is your best friend, you just may come across someone that could be your potential employer, or a great reference to a great job. College has taught me that self-relization is the only motivation that I need to achieve anything. You have to forsee and believe in your goals youself, before you can begin working towards them. Succeeding in college has been of value to me because I have broken the cycle in my family of letting circumstances and a lack of motivation hinder educational advancements. Attending college has given me the skills to not only succeed in my career, but in life as well.

Chinetha

By attending college I learned many valueable things. I learned how to be more indepedent by going away for school and not having my parents here to do everything for me as usual. I also have have realized how much I will enjoy the career I plan to have. College has helped me realize what the real world will be like. I can no longer sit around and wait till my parents do something for me I now have to get up and do it all on my own.

abdihakim

work hard and you will successed

brittney

I have gained a better sense of who I am and what it takes for me to obtain my degree from TSU. I no longer doubt my self and I now know that I can be anything I want to be. TSU has taught me that diversity is wonderful and learning from others can only enrich my life. I have really lerned how to accept change and that change is uncomfortable but sometimes necessary. I have learned that being on my own isn't as scary as I thought it would be. I have been pushed to be independent and make decisions without my parents. I have learned that the decisions I make must support my choice to attend TSU and graduate in 2013. TSU has enhanced my belief that one person is of more value than the world and that we must help each other in order to be successful. It has been of great value for me because I am surrounded by many ppeople that really care and want to see me succeed. I love TSU

Rachel

If I could go back in time when I was a senior, I would tell myself to "buckle down" more. Higher my GPA and grades so I would be eligible to get more scholarships and grants than I have now. I would have also joined more clubs and societies because that looks good on your transcripts for college recruiters. I didn't think about these things in high school because I didn't really have anyone to look up to. They would pressure me to do it but I felt like it had no point. But now I know how it can affect your eligibility for what you want to do in the future. I would also let myself know that college is nothing like high school. I need to get a plan together and meet the deadlines of the college I want to attend. I would have told myself to fill out the FAFSA, the college applications, and the student loan papers ASAP. Those are the many things that I didn?t do on time and so it kind of slowed down the process of getting in school. That?s something that I want all future students to know.

Bobbie

I really wish i would have taken the higher education classes and done PSEO. By taking those classes and getting my generals done i would have been in a much better spot i am now. I would have understood more of how college goes and saved money if i would have done that. I would have taken more health related classes to get used to my field i want to go in. Would have been more involved with interacting with others who are interested in the same career path. Study as hard as you can, learn as much as you can, and do the best that you can in everything.

Leeha

The advice I would give myself as a high school senior is to start looking for scholarship money as soon as possible! I feel like schools need to focus on scholarship opportunities for their seniors. I would have told myself to go to my counselors and ask more about the process. College is essential and it is hard to pay for! I wish someone would have introduced myself and my classmates to the college setup. I believe they focus to much on studies, not that it isn't important, however you have to be able to understand what you are getting into before you can even get to those studies. I wish I would have known and I feel my high school did a poor job of getting us ready for the transition. I would have, as a senior, looked more into the process had I known how difficult it is. Studies is only one aspect, but as I mentioned before there is a lot to getting into a college and paying for it, if you don't have the money you can't get to the classes. That is what I would tell myself as a high school senior!

Success

The period of high school senior was all about fun and not reading. I took life so simply and never knew what was ahead of me. Now i have realize it, i know what is best for me. Back in the day i was one student that love to make fun of people and just dont care how it will hurt them. Never like to read and dont take high school serious. I did not have F or D in my report cards because i feel too smart about myself, never knew that college would not be simple for me as a freshman.High school senior work was easy for me to do. Comming to college has shown me different rules in life that i never knew i could acknowledge in my own mentality. If i could go back in time to be an high school senior i would have change the way i see ideas in life, like taking my books serious and never make fun of people, because it breaks their heart when u do that. and also be genorous and smile all the time. "Education is a Life Time until u see the Outcome in your Children".

Terica

If I were to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior knowing what I know now, I would say Terica your going to need seventeen jobs to attend college!

Tamara

If i could go back in time as a high school senior, i would tell myself to keep thinking of the career i want to pursue in college and go for it and making sure I go with the best college. It is the right thing to do and there is no telling what i could accomplish if i try my best to go to college and make my dreams come true. By making sure I stay on the right path. A good education is the one key to your success.

keniece

If i could go back in time and give myself advice as a high school senior, first i would tell myself don't follow the crowd. Picking the right college is a major decision that needs to be thoughtout well. Secondly, go for the challenging schools never be too afraid to go far away, you'll be more diversed and familiar with unknown territory. Thirdly, check deep into the background of the schools (sports,administration,activities,students etc.). Lastly, go with your first mind never second guess yourself, no one can choose the right school for you but yourself. As a junior in college i now see some mistakes i've made in picking my school but i don't regret it; I'll take everything as a lesson learned and become a better person eachday.

Kathryn

If I were able to talk to myself as a high school senior I would say:Get yourself into college as soon as possible do not wait and that you should have a college experience including the hassles of living in a dorm instead of working full time at minimum wage and going to school full time.I would also tell myself to go to the school you want to not just because its close to where your significant other lives, and to take the ACT more seriously it determines your path.I would also tell myself that summer courses aren't a bad thing and put you ahead of the game.

Kysa

If I could go back in time and give myself the advice that I know now I would probably have to say to myself to make my time at Tennessee State University the best that it can be. It is very cool to be able to make friends and things like that, but I think I would like to make sure that I am more involved within my community and school. I would tell myself to always stay focused and make sure that I am always focused on the bigger picture because once I gradutate it is time for the real world. Make sure I take full advantage of the resources that I am given. It makes a difference and can help in the long run.

Tracy

If I could give any advice it would be to know why you are in school! You are there for your education not for a social life. Granted a social life is a must to unwind from the stress of school, but keep it is balance! Know that when you join an organization on campus it will take up a lot of you time. Make sure you can balance everything. Also, get to know you professors, do interships, volunteer, and make as many connections you can! Make sure you ask your advisor questions and that they are able to answer your questions fully and honestly, if they can't then GET A NEW ADVISOR!!! Be confident in who you are. Romantic relationships can be very distracting make sure your significant other supports and respects your study time. Never give up! No matter what is thrown your way press on. I dealt with the death of family and friends. Also a father with lung cancer! Live on campus if possible so you do not have to worry about paying bills! If you have to life off campus and work stay focused and work hard! Do not give up!

Dinh

If I were given the ability to go back in time to talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to set my priorities towards academics rather than partying and sports. By prioritizing academics before everthing else I would be able to get more scholarships and grants for school since college is really expensive. I would tell myself that college does not pay for itself. Working in order to pay for school is highly difficult. It is really hard to work and be able to have time to study and focus on school. Working and going to school will leave me with little time to myself and add stress to life. I would definitely tell myself to work hard , study hard, then party after I have succeeded.

Ashleigh

In high school I was a normal, rebellious teen who didn't understand that all of the things that my mom told me about getting good grades and actually filling out scholarship applications would help me in the long run. It took me to get into college and mess up my first year, and having to incur student loans to realize that she wasn't just blowing hot air. I would tell myself to actually listen to her and know that the dull paperwork that I would have to do then would save me from the headaches that I get now.

Cornellus

If I could go back in time and give myself about the transition to college life, I would tell myself to use all of the resources and people available to you. Make sure I ask my advisors and teachers as many questions as possible. I would make sure I use the writing center to help write my research papers and speeches. I would also make sure I attend meetings that involve my residence hall and my class so that I will be aware of all events taking place that might be considered important to. One of the more important things would be don't be scared to network and meet other people. Networking will be very valuable to your life after college.

Ke'Arra

If I could go back in time I would tell myself during the first semester study as much as you can. There is no time for play time. Atleast study two hours for each class that you have dailey. Also, i would tell myself that its okay to meet new people and join as many organizations as i possibly can.

Donald

Don, you need to live each moment of each day as if it were your last, to steal from the old cliche. Although you will have fun and make many lasting friendships while in college, you are there to study and learn what will guide you through the rest of your adult life. Please take the time to get to know your advisors and professors, as they will undoubtedly be able to help guide you while in college, as well as offer assistence in job placement, internships, and scholarships. Become involved in associations, clubs, and societies that will aid in your future career advancement and placement. Join study groups and seek tutoring when available as you can NEVER learn too much! Your sacrifices over the next four years will pay off in many different aspects of your life. Go forth and be proud, buckle down, and hold your head up high!!!

Devin

I would tell myself to go to a coolege that is more organized

Jamil

Taking a future decesion more seriously. As a high school student, sometimes the future doesn't seem as important as others may think. The ending of a high school students career is one peak in their social life. They may have a car, a part time job, or even a high school sweetheart. But going into your first semester at a university, life sets you back four years. The status you had as a senior in high school is now a freshman in college. And the process of growth begans all over again. As you go through this process, take what you learn and apply it to the future. Become the master of that destiny and serious consider what life you want to led when school is done. Because when that time rolls around, that is when reality becomes real and you are an adult in a world you prepared yourself for.

Kaiwanna

Looking back as a high school senior and knowing what I know know about college life and making the transition I would tell myself that college is a little different than high school. College you have to have good study habits and on top buisness. You have good study habits because in High School you may have had a lot of time to study for one particular test but in college you have multiple test at one time and you do not get as much time to study. You also have to be on top of your buisness because your parents are not here to push you and tell you what to do. Another thing I would tell myself is college is what you make it.

kaycee

Knowing what I know now, I would have changed my whole outcome on my education throughout high school in general. Being out on my own, and living on my own, I have to pay for college on my own. If I knew then that I would be working three jobs and still be needing help financially, I think I would have tried harder, and prioritized things better. If I could go back to myself my senior year, i would tell myself to pay attention and to make better grades, to try harder than my hardest and to start preparing for college right then. If I would have done better throughout high school, I would have possibly gotten a scholarship and life now would be so much easier on me.

Gabrielle

Knowing what I know now, I would tell myself to apply for more scholarships and don't get discourged. Life is full of mistakes and just learn from them. I would tell myself to stay focused on the dream and don't fall off course. To not worry, you will make plenty of friends and to just know that being an out of state student has benefits! I would also tell myself that starting college is a beautiful thing and that its the best time of your life, ENJOY IT! That is what i would tell myself knowing what I know now!

Jonathan

As a senior in high school, I always anticipated what it would be like to attend college. The things I found myself having concerns over were questions like, What if they don't accept me? Am I going to make any friends? How will I pay for college? Questions and concerns such as these and more, I believe, cross the minds of any, and many, graduating senior in high school. The most important question could've possibly been how am I going to fund my education? The money factor seems to scare everyone who has to go to school, especially for out of state students, and especially with this economy. If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would make sure that my performance in school, extracurricular activities, and community service were at the top of my game. I would tell myself to fill out more scholarships and retrieve as much information as I can to be able to fund my education. College transition was fine for me, but I'm still learning new and more things everyday. What's important is what one can get out of the college experience.

Jena

If i could go back in time as a high school senior, i would tell myself to continue to strive for the best as far as grades. I would also tell myself to plan ahead and accordingly to my life goals and to keep a positive attitude. Another thing i would tell myself is to take care of everything before i make the transition of moving to another state or even county, because you don't want to be up for any surprises. I would also tell myself to save all the money that you get as a graduation gift, simply because college is expensive and you never know how many books you need for a class (clothes and other material items can wait and always be purchased, an education will always be there too but it's way more important). In conclusion, I would tell myself to enjoy my senior year, but to put my college plans as number one on my priority list because that's when life really begins.

roy

I would tell my self to take more chances. Not to be embarrased and join clubs! Some clubs are very helpful and educational and can benifit myself. Not to care what other people think or how I look and do whatever I can to succeed. To work hard and do all my work. When I didn't know how to do something, ask for help or stay after school for tutoring. Not to satisfy myself with just passing or having an average grade but to work hard and pass with a high grade.

Gilbert

The advice i would give is to remain focused. Being focused has helped me realize that there is a time and a place for games and other activities. In high school, I did not understand the importance of being focused. Now I have realized how important it is.

Kenya

Knowing what I know about college life and making the transition, I would have told myself to concentrate more on the academics. Yes, forming good, healthy relationships with my peers was important but the doors that open up for students that do well in school are far more greater. Doing well in school doesn't only provide an avenue for getting scholarships and grants, but it too helps form healthy relationships with faculty and staff, other students and potential employers. Good grades will not only allow for an easy transition into college but allow for an easier transition into the work force. I have found, when speaking with different employers, that being on top of your game and being well rounded helps when competing with fellow job seekers.

Calvin

I would have told myself to take your future more seriously and to apply for more scholarships. I would have also told myself to save up as much money as you can.

Marcus

If I could go back in time and tell myself the things I know now, the first thing I would say would be "boy pay attention" your future depends on it. Also take your time to learn your chosen field of study. Do not under no circumstance think that you are not good enough to ask questions about something you don't understand. Just because you are one of the first in your family to have an opportunity to go to college doesn't mean that you will fail. Stay positive and don't let the failures of those that are close to you determine your future. You can do it. Believe in yourself. You can do it. Just believe in yourself.

D'Asia

I would take advantage of advanced placements courses because it could give you credits towards college. I would study a little harder for the ACT and SAT because with low scores some colleges or university would place you in developmental classes based on your scores. Which could put you a semester behind. If you want to attend an out-state college or university try to get as many scholarships as possible because out- state tuition is very expensive. I would have ask for help more often and asked more question on what I didn't know because there is no such thing as a dumb question.

Monique

I would attend a school that provided the most financial aid. I look back now and see that I turned down a scholarship to atend a school that was giving me almost a full ride. However, I chose a school that I truly wanted to attend based on my visit to the campus. I liked the people, the staff appeared very nice and helpful and it was in a warm climate area. I loved my first year being on campus, and the teachers were very helpful during my first year. However, now that I have been there three years, money has gotten very tight. I have had to take out student loans because my parents could not afford to pay my full tutition. I feel that the school should be providing me some sort of scholarship based on my 3.3 gpa, the fact that I have been on the Dean's list for the past two years, and the fact that I am in their honor's program. I have gone to the financial department but they have not been very helpful at all. They say that the school has no money.

Mollie

I would use better judgement in time management. Juggling social activities and academics can be very overwhelming. Having a better financial knowledge would also have helped. WIth all hard work comes great rewards and making the dean's list is very rewarding. It is possible to have both a great social life and good grades, it is just a matter of discipline. Going to college makes you grow up, so embrace that and do not run from it. Being a grown up has its pros and believe it or not, life gets much better with age. So, enjoy the experiences and learn from them. Take advantages of all opportunities and it will benefit you in the long run. By asking questions, you learn more, so ask away. If you open your mind to new experiences, you will have the world at your finger tips. And last, just show up. By showing up, you are taking the first step to the rest of your life. Do not give up the opportunity of a lifetime. It will all be over before you know it, so enjoy the ride.

Dominique

If I could go back in time as a high school senior I would have been sure to become more involved in comunity service projects , volunteer work, in organizations for leadership, and I would would maintain a GPA higher than 2.5. This could help because a student may gain experience to prepare them for activeness in college, qualify for more positions in orginizations, scholarships, and invite more oppurtunities.

Avian

Always prepare for success. Enjoy every step of the way. Campus life is great. Take the time to learn time management. Study hard.

Briana

The guidance I would give to myself is if I could go back in time as a high school senior, I would enlighten myself to increase my 3.67 GPA to a 4.0 in order to receive more scholarships for my school tuition. While I worked as a fast food restaurant cashier, I would have saved more money toward my emergency financial aid issues. I would also have said to attend Tennessee State University like I am now. Stay a person in charge, and never become an admirer. Admirers hang about in the background, while the person in charge shines in the front. Lastly, I would say to never settle for less and always do my best because sticking with my goals will make me very successful one day.

Jessica

If I could back to senior year in high school I would primarily advise myself in the area of financial managment. I would really teach myself how to budget and manage every dime of my money as well as to take advantage of all scholarship opportunities that are available. I would also teach myself what it really means to study and get a thorough understanding of all class material as well as maximizing not only my study time but every area of my life.

Leanna

I would tell myself this: "You should work hard on any and everything, because it will pay off, get involved in your surroundings, in order to be a voice for your fellow peers, take the time to research the school, go your advisor every chance you can get to keep him/her updated on your progress during your college career and ask for their help when it is needed, and stay focused on the reason(s) why you want to go to an university this is what will fuel you to be head-strong and active in getting a worthy education."

Chelsea

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself, "Chelsea, you have so much more potential than you know. Do not get discouraged everytime something small comes your way. Life is filled with trials and tribulations, but they will all make you a stronger and better person. Hurtful and shameful words that others say about you do not determine who you are. Don't let others make you feel like you cannot succeed because you can. Let the negative things that people say be your motivation. In the words of Eleanor Rooselvelt, "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent." College is the most important time of your life. This is where you set the foundation for your career. Not only are you setting the stones for your career, but you are discovering who you truly are. Keep your priorities in the right order so that you don't lose sight of your goals and what is truly important in life. Do not give in to the influence of those around you. Be your own person and stay true to yourself."

Jameka

Have fun and make sure that your choice is the best