Texas Woman’s University Top Questions

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

Mollie

Apply for all the scholarships that you possibly can. It seems that there are more scholarships available for high school seniors than for any other student classification. Spend a lot of time searching the web, talking to the high school councillor, and looking for scholarship sources at the public library. Work hard to keep your GPA up and study more for the SAT and AP tests. It may seem a bit overwhelming, but pace yourself and strike a balance between study and fun. Cherish your friends and family and the experiences you have with them now, because even though you are on your way to some exciting new experiences this is your last year as a student and though you may not know it, in many ways it is the last year of your childhood. Cut Mom and Dad some slack when you see that they hold on a little tight even when you're all grown up. Get involved in more community activities. This will look good on your scholorship and college applications, but most of all it will be rewarding in ways you will never expect and help you to grow as a person.

Anna

I sometimes wonder if I would warn myself that I would go blind and endure so much following high school. After overcoming dyslexia, abuse, and medical challenges I left high school feeling triumphant. Yet the proceeding years became a real life example of Murphy's Law. I spent most of my early life in the inner-city fighting against drugs and alcohol. I felt proud of the accomplishments but soon felt defeated when my fiancee became a cocaine addict and drug dealer. After finding the strength to leave this unhealthy relationship I learned that my mother had a rare form of leukemia. I left school and moved halfway across the country to help take care of her before being diagnosed with disseminated histoplasmosis which caused me to go legally blind. I could tell the old me what to do to avoid most of this but even if I could I do not think that I would. I may have bore more burdens than most people my age but I feel that I have become stronger. Because of this the only words I would say to myself in high school would be, "You're going to make it through this!"

Danielle

The best advice I would give myself if I went back in time would be to stay focused during your last your as a senior because these are the times that could be most difficult for you. Knowing what I know now about college life I would let myself know that I should take all classes seriously because anything could interfere with the transition on to college life. I would also tell myself to make sure that I venture out into different colleges to make sure that I am making the right decision.

Krysten

First of all, I would tell myself not to stress out about the supposed difficulty of college so much. Throughout high school, many teachers instilled fear in us that college was incredibly difficult and that professors don't care if we pass or fail. From my 3 years of experience at Texas Woman's University, that is simply not the case for the majority of courses. I have since reflected and concluded that because I stayed busy in high school (extracurricular activities) and challenged myself academically by taking upper level courses, I had already perfected my personal study habits including time efficiency. Having done so by my senior year of high school made the transition to college coursework almost seamless. To go back, I would advise myself to apply for scholarships sooner, talk with professionals in my field of interest for advice, volunteer at physical therapy centers (my intended degree field) as often as possible to build observation hours and to solidify my passions and use that energy to drive me through potentially challenging coursework. Finally, I would recommend that I never slow down, keep my eyes on the prize ahead and take advantage of every opportunity presented to me.

Sarah

Try to make and keep friends early on in college life. Simply working with academia will not entirely fill you with success and achievement. Do not be afraid to compromise when you are put in a group project, but also do not be afraid to stick to your beliefs and work to empower yourself with the facts. Join and be active in at least one student organization and/or volunteer work. Great grades alone will not help you in the future. A well-rounded individual always draws more eyes than a pure academic. However, do not be afraid to show your smarts - some people can handle when people are intelligent, and some will shun you. Only embrace those with study habits similar to your own, and do not fall into a rut of a slovenly nature.

Suzanne

Take your time to visit the different schools and really feel what it is like to be a student. Don't just take the tour and listen, ask students questions, participate, sit in on classes, and meet people. Where you choose to go to college is where you will be shaping the next few years of your life, and grow to be the person you want to be, so don't rush into it. Let your gut feeling pick the school, because that's how you'll know where you belong.

Amy

If I could have the chance to go back six years and do college all over again, I would take a much harder look at myself and what I want for my future. I've had a very difficult college career. I would tell myself that just because I can't identify myself as an "athlete" anymore doesn't mean that I'm not good enough. I would really figure out what I want to do, besides collegiate sports, and focus on that goal, not just quit when it got too hard. I would pick a focus that left me inspired. I would also tell myself that I don't have to go to college right away; it's OK to go to a 2-year college while still figuring things out. Finally, take advantage of everything college can offer, including travel opportunities and internships. Stress less and enjoy yourself and this experience more.

Michelle

There are going to be difficult times ahead, but hold your head up high and work through it. What doesn't kill you will make you stronger. Remember to register early, fill out your FAFSA early, make sure you have met with an advisor and figured out your schedule. Everyone is different, and no one knows where you came from so just keep an open mind. Make friends so that you can study with them, it is very important that after every class you look over your notes everyday. Be organized, it will help you in the end. And have fun, yes you are at school but it is an experience of a lifetime make the best of it!

Jamie

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a senior in high school I would tell myself to not let my emotions control my choices. I would tell myself to stick with what I had always wanted regardless of who I am with, and that I shouldn't rush into anything that I know I am not ready for. I would tell myself to actually be thankful for what I have once I started school and not look at it as your not paying for it you dont HAVE to go to class. My advice would be to follow my heart and not my irrational emotions. I would want me to know that things get better with time and any person who wants the best for you will support you regardless of what you do.

Katherine

I would tell myself that it is not important to get out of college in 4 years. Taking time to truly learn the material and ensure that you can do your job well is so important. I would take the time to explore a little more and not jump into things so quickly. I never had time to doubt my decision because I never had any time to think about it. In addition to these factors, I would tell myself that everything happens in its own time. Things can not be rushed. I would just remind myself that enjoying the ride is so important. And then I'd remind myself that I should LISTEN to myself and not just shrug the words off my shoulder. Advice is golden!

Jaimie

As a previous high school senior if I could rewind time back to my senior year I would tell my old self that college will be a time of new experiences and fun times balanced with stress and intense coursework. I would reassure myself that I am making the right decision to attend TWU to achieve my future career goals. The one thing I would change, though, would be the lack of information I had about my current campus. I lacked knowledge on the actual location, facilities, and services provided on campus. I also lacked true commitment to my career goal. I wish that I had volunteered at a local clinic or hospital specializing in physical therapy just so I would have a better understanding of what my future job would entail. This would of saved me a lot of unnecessary stress and doubt in myself if I had done more research and volunteer work into my future profession. I would have found out sooner what I actually liked to do, who I want to help, and how I wanted to help them.

Natasha

I would say to myself that college is nothing like your high school, Universities are completely different in caprison to public education schools, they mean what they expect from you and nothing less or you dont get the grade. Do not underestimate the workload and do not expect the professors to feel sorry for you, if you dont try and apply yourself completely then you wont get the grade, period. TAKE IT SERIOUSLY, as serious as serious can get. Dont feel to good to go to a community college for your basics because University is SUPER expensive., yes you worked hard to get into a top noch school and you did, but dont kid yourself into thinking you can afford the 4 years of tuition.

Amber

Go to a 4 year school right off the bat if you can afford it. It is a lot of fun and you will meet so many people and make great friends. Live in the dorms for at least a year because you will learn so much about yourself. Most of all have fun! It is the last couple years of fun without worrying about adult stuff!

LaDoris

Make sure you do your research, ask around for peoples opinions about the school and attend open house so you can become familiar with campus to decide whether you want to attend or not. College is what you make it to be. You put forth the effort and you will get the right results. Be smart and be safe, always remember the advice your parents give your because you will need it. You will be faced with so many temptations and challenges and you have to be strong-minded and don't fall for anything. Keep God as your number one and he will direct your paths and you will definitely succeed!!!

Amber

Pick a college that is in a good location where the student will have a good support system.

Sarah

The right college is a mix of your child's learning mechanisms and an adaptable environment for their standards of living. You have to be aware of if the student wants to be near home, what programs the student is interested in and if they are availble at the school of choice, and if the housing options that they have available are suitable for their needs. Perhaps meeting staff members of a program would be useful. You should be aware of the students weak areas and available tutoring programs. Also, parents and students should decide if they are comfortable with a large classroom or small classroom size; perhaps you should list the pros and cons of each on a t-chart. Most importantly parents and students should explore if their college environment offers the student the ability to apply what they are learning in an on-campus or off-campus job, organization, or scholastic club. Lastly, students should make sure that they have outlets to their non-scholastic interests through on campus or off campus activities to prevent burn-out.

Stephanie

My advice to find the right college is to find out if you want to stay near your home or get far away from family. At the time that I chose my college, it immediately followed the death of my brother so my family wanted me to stay close and I do not regret it. Also, You need to figure out what college size you would like to be at. I know a lot of people who do not like the small population at my university and end up transferring. The larger colleges are more impersonal and it is harder to find the right fit while the smaller universities tend to be a bit more boring but it is closer knit and more personal when it comes to financial aid and the classroom environment. The last bit of advice is to DO YOUR RESEARCH! Some colleges do not offer many degree plans or they have their individual quirks that may not fit you. The internet and a little bit of research does wonders!

Gabriela

I believe that the best college for you is the one where you can feel comfortable, express your own thoughts, and where you are able to get the necessary education you need in order to pursure your degree. A lot of people believe that college is a place where you grow and meet the people that will be your friends for a lifetime. The college you choose should also feel like home away from home. I have met many people that have gone to amazing colleges yet they end up coming back home because the town they were in didn't feel like home. You should feel happy wherever you decide to go because ultimately your happiness and motivation will help you get through the college experience.

Shumaria

Don't just accept the school that accepted you.

Dawn

Be sure to do as much research on the school as possible. Use the internet, talk with former students, and definitely visit the campus of choice. I recommend visiting more than once and talk with current students about their experiences and what possibly, you could expect. Ask how the professors teach, what' s their style and expectations. Don't be afraid to ask questions and ask for help. Just because a university/college looks good in a brochure or online, or was attended by a family member, does not necessarily mean it's the best fit for you.

Sandi

A great woman's college and the professor are not out to get you. Great for nursing and teacher education. Special education teachers can get a BA degree and not have to wait and get a MA in this degree.

Samantha

The most important thing to keep in mind when choosing a college is not the prestige of the college but the student themselves. So many parents/students are not realistic about the different aspects involved in a student?s success in college. Most people seem to look at the prestige and from there the experience in sink or swim. It is important to consider realistically what the student can handle in his or her roles. In considering this, one must look at the financial capability of not only the family but the student, the amount of tutorial and guidance support the school offers, and the learning style of the student. When you have a comfortable and stable plan covering the foundation of why one is attending college (to learn and succeed) you can then get the most out of your college experience. If a student is bogged down with financial stresses, learning stresses, or feeling a lack of support they are not going to get the most out of their college experience. Like the saying goes knowledge is power. Get educated on the important aspects of college so stability and foundation are present.

Samona

Find a college that really cares about the students.

Shannon

In order to make the most of your college experience, you need to be open to new experiences. By doing this you will be able to make more friends and find what truly makes you happy. I've found that to find the right college you have to go beyond the financial and pamphlets. Simply taking a visit to the campus, even without a guided tour, can help you get a feel for what it would be like to attend school there. In short, trust your instincts and don't be afraid of stepping out of your normal comfort zone!

Milani

The best advice I could give to parents and/or students who are trying to find the right college is don't give up until you have find whats best for you or your child. In more specific terms, you should find a school that complements or has the right size and space that you like, availability of the professors, adminitrators and staff, good resources from researching for a class report to being able to get to a grocery store, a nice, safe and fun social life, campus security, and most of all an affordable college tuition. It is not okay to settle because you or your child do not want to miss out on whatever they need to have to succeed.

Emily

Parents should respect their child's choice of schools, adn should not try to sway them away from their rightful choices. Students should research the school based on acedimic, the school's standing in industry or employee field, diversity, activities on campus and internships. In college it is important to get involved in the activities on campus because it enhances interpersonal relationships. Interpersonal relationships are the forground for building and keeping relationsships and network contacts.

Faizan

Choosing the "Right" college is a hard and thought provoking process. Do not take this decision by yourself. Involve many individuals including advisers, counselors, parents, mentors, current college students, and allumni. Remember that you can change schools if you find it "not fitting" for you. When you have chosen your college, make sure you get involved. Studying and going to class are important, but just as important is your legacy that you leave. I would encourage every student to live on campus. Living on campus was one of the best experiences of my life. I have learned and grown so much more. As a resident of your school, you have access to your school at all times and you meet more students. You live and you learn together. That to me, is how you make the most of your college experience. Good Luck!

Laura

Parents and students should discuss what the student wants out of college. If the students knows a specefic profession or major they are interested in, consider schools strong in those areas. If not, choose a college with a more diverse, wide-range set of course work available so that a student can find what proffession is best for them. A student should never choose a school to follow friends to a city or university, but spread their own wings and make their own experiences. College is a time for discovery. Step out of your comfort zone and try new things. Learn and grow.

Patrice

Make sure the college fits the needs of the student.

Joy

Prioritize what is most important to the individual student that is attending. If you plan on living in the dorms... make sure that you are confortable staying in that room for long periods of time. Prepare yourself for the classes BEFORE they start. And relax. College is supposed to be fun.

Jeanine

Look around. Keep in mind what you want and what you do not want in a school and find one that matches those criteria.

Luz

I am a single parent and what made my choice of college important was the convinience of location, academic support to students, a university that accepted previous college coarse credits, as well as one that provided adequate financial aid assistance. I found that these services were most helpful in making my experience less stressful.

Tarek

Do not limit your kid to In-state schools, let them explore their options. There is generally a way to off-set the cost of tuition. Let your would-be future college student explore their own options and discover what they truly want to do. While money is important in life, there's more to it then just that.

Lacy

To the parents: Make sure that the college is in your child's best interest's and not your own. It is the responsibitlity of the student to choose THEIR university. This is what will get them out of the house and making money in the real world. Let them ahve that experience. To the Student: Don't go into college with the mentality that you will be partying all the time, and still make good enough grades to get through school. That's all a big lie. Study hard, work hard, then play hard. It pays off in the end. Otherwise you will be drinking your parents money away and will find out one day that your goals and dreams did not amount to much because of bad decisions on your part. Think about it.

Rene'

Don't be pressured into living on campus if that's not your scene. Find a school not so focused on research and has well rated programs.

Jennifer

Choosing the right college can be a very time-consuming, difficult task. You should take the time to think about what you are looking to gain from a higher education. You should decide important factors such as the preferable distance from school to home, majors that interest you, where you will live, and the cost of each school. It is smart to make a pros and cons list and assess each school thoroughly. You should pick a school that best suits your needs as a student. Choosing the right school for you means not attending a school just because all of your friends are going there. You need to pick a school that offers what you need and that helps you succeed in the future. In order to make the most of your experience, you have to get involved! Many college freshmen have a hard time transitioning from high school life and living at home. One of the best ways to meet new people and make friends is to join clubs and organizations. Also, remember that you are at college to learn, but you should also experience all that college life has to offer.

Diana

There is only a efficient way to consider the perfect college, in my opinion, and that is to go visit it. Texas Woman's University offers site visits and orientations so that students may personally see what they will be getting into. Brochures, websites, and ads will obviously be exaggerated, so you must pick a school which you feel is affordable and that offers your degree program that you are interested in.

Meredith

The most important thing to do before selecting the right college or university is research. You must research the campus, housing, finacial aid possibilities, department foci, and faculty members, etc. For example, as a dance major, I hear students every day complain about the department. However, I feel if they had actually researched the department and faculty, they would have been better prepared coming into the program. I did my research and believe I have chosen the best school for me. I could not be happier elsewhere.

Temmesce

Visit it and talk to some of the attending students there. Ask what they think of the campus, community and professors.

Christi

My advice for parents and students would be to find a college that has a good reputation for the degree they are wanting to obtain. I chose my school because it was ranked very highly in the nation for their Nursing program. You don't just want a degree. You want to go to a school that will put you in very high demand, and with a degree from a highly ranked school you will be highly saught after. I would also recommend for students that if you aren't sure what you want to do, take some of your basics at a community college. You still get the college atmosphere, but you save lots of money. My last advice is to find a school that is conducive to your learning needs. Make sure they have everything you will need to succeed.

Fabiola

First, make sure you visit the school before making a final decision. When it is the right college, you just get that special vibe just like I did for my school. You also have to keep in mind about housing, meal plans, tuition an how you will be able to afford everything. But the most important thing, you have to make sure that you are mentally and emotionally ready to attend college because it is a huge change and you have to prepare fot that. Do your research, make sure that your major is offered and that your degree plan compliments what you are trying to do with your career. Once in college, join maybe one or two organizations so you make friends with similar interests and feel more comfortable and at home at your college. Make sure to use your time wisely because time management can make or break you. Last but not least, always be aware of deadlines! In high school, deadlines were not that important but being in college deadlines are everything. Be on top of your stuff!

Tamara

Know the type of person you are. It will help with your decision.

Christa

Visiting the school, and talking to the students is the way to go!

Kaili

First of all do lots of research on your school of choice. Make sure they offer the degrees and programs you are interested in. Also be sure to know your deadlines, so you don't fall behind, and aren't struggling to make up for lost time, this will put less stress on the parents and student. Also check out what groups and activities the school offers. It is good to be involved in activities, this way you are meeting new people, and learning from one another. So find a school that offers activities that you are interested in. One other important factor, that I think many people look over is the city in which the school is located. You want to make sure that the city meets your standards, whether you want to be in the city or out in the country, public transportation, and other things the city has to offer. This will allow the student to find cities that have amminities with activities they like to engage in.

Brandi

I think the most important aspect about applying for college is visiting the campus before you make your decision. The campus can give you so much insight to the goings on of campus life. You can visit the department your interested in, talk to financial aid, seek out sports clubs and athletic teams. There is so much you can find out from visiting the school. Many people I have talked to research some items online about the school they want to attend, they don't visit beforehand and they end up transferring somewhere new. I also believe that college should be fun. Pick a college that has activities you will enjoy in your free time. School is important and the obvious reason your in college. However, the college experience is so much more than academics. You truely can meet lifelong friends and have memories that will last forever.

Emily

It's okay if you don't know exactly what you want to do, pick a school that you can try a lot of different things. Or go to Junior College to explore and get your basics out of the way, it's much cheaper.

Affifa

I would encourage students to choose a college with a diverse population of students and also one that they know offers a wide variety of courses and career-friendly majors. The reason I emphasize the importance of a diverse student body is because America is a melting pot of races, religions, and ethnicities. Unfortunately some students coming from smaller, less diverse towns are not exposed to all that diversity growing up. In today's world it is very important to know and learn about other countries and cultures. It helps make a more rounded person and even helps one become more aware of themself and their own values and beliefs. In order to make the most of your college experience, I would tell students to explore. Explore careers, professions, clubs, organizations, etc. Learn to leave your biases at home when you enter a classroom that may or may not be full of people who disagree with you. Do not come under peer pressure. You will regret it later. Being able to go to college is a privilege, because there are people out there who can only dream about being in college. Make the most of it while you are here.

Laura

Encourage your child to never lose focus of his or her primary goal in life as far as career, morals, and family. Don't let a college take any of that away, but rather to add to it.

Dannielle

Trust your instints!

Meaghan

Visit as many as possible and go with your gut feeling. Do what you feel is right for you!