The University of Alabama Top Questions

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

Destin

College is a HUGE transition from a small town high school. You will meet new people that open your eyes to things you have never even heard of before and you will begin to discover your real self. Don't start out partying too much because classes here are really difficult. Learning to balance school work, a part time job, and your social life if going to be your biggest challenge yet, but hang in there you get the hang of it by your sophomore year. Ask for help as soon as you find something you don't understand. Waiting until the night before the test doesn't do any good and be prepared to make your first C on a test. High school was a piece of cake compared to college. It's a lot of fun though so don't be nervous. Good luck!

Cyle

I would advise myself to think past the idea that I would always be in the same field for my entire work career. I would recommend that regardless of the type school I chose to attend, a community college or four year university, place an emphasis on academic courses in science and math because they could prove useful in the future. And surround yourself with students who want to work hard to maintain a good gpa. If you surround yourself with good students to study with, everyone in the group will learn something from each other. Always go to class prepared to take notes and learn something new every day. Most importantly always maintain a positive attitude towards every subject.

Leigh

If I could go back ad talk to myself as a high-school senior I would first tell myself not to worry because it would all work out in the end. I would tell myself to have an open mind because anything is possible. I would also make sure not to be so hard on myself. The biggest thing I would say is that I would find the friends in college I had always missed. The last thing would be that college turns out to be great and nothing to be scared of.

David

The best advice that I would give to myself is to start learning how to manage time and be responsible and organized so that keeping up with classes will be a breeze. Also, I would tell myself not to commit to a major right away, considering I have already switched it once. Another thing would be to remember that balanced meals and much sleep is needed, along with time to study and do homework, learn how to be able to keep up with all of that. Most importantly, have fun, and make plenty of friends along the way.

April

I would tell myself to take harder courses to better prepare myself for my college courses. I would also tell myself that I should work harder to maintain a high GPA, because it really affects scholarships. Finally, I would tell myself not to base my decision of which college to choose on anyone or anything besides what feels right.

chandra

Every year of high school I took concurrent enrollment and/or distance education classes. My goal was to enroll in enough college credits to earn my associates degree at the same time I graduated high school. Most of my classes were in the same classroom with the same classmates so I did not really feel like I was in high school. College was a weird adjustment coming from high school classes, with an average of five students. Most classes, at the university I attend, had over twenty to thirty people in each class. However, when I graduated high school and started college, all the distance ed. classes were worth the work. I wish I could have told my senior high school self to work a little harder and be more involved in high school. Even though my high school experience was different from most people's, I am very glad I took all the college classes I did and was able to earn my associates degree.

Zarie

Pay more attention to your studies, you have PLENTY of time for a social life!

Iris

I would have told myself that just doing what the teacher has listed down on a piece of paper is not enough. At that point, I would have looked at myself like I was crazy and the words did not come out of my own mouth. Then I would continue to explain that success is not determined by knowing that the person beside you is not going to get a better grade. It is not even knowing that your easy work is better than the adverage. You have to turn in every essay, document, or simple math equation with pride knowing that you did more than the standard obligation, because that's what your professor's will expect back. It is doing your work to your maximum ability and that's exactly what an education at The University of Alabama is all about.

Daphanee

As a senior in High School, I was very goal oriented and involved in a lot of organizations at school and in the community. I felt as if the college life would be somewhat easier because I didn't have to take as many classes and go to school from 8:30am-3:30pm as I did in High School. Therefore, I would - if I could - go back in time and advise myself to take it easy, know my limits. I feel as if I needed to rest a little more before embarking on such a big journey in my life. I have no regrets at all; however, I do feel as if I could have changed a few things for the better.

Tawny

The same advice I have been giving myself since my father died when I was fifteen: do not give up. No matter how hard life gets or seems to get, there's always something bright to look forward to. Having your degree. If you have a bad day, know you will have a good day. If you see rain clouds and stormy obstacles, know that rainbows will come and radiant miracles will shine through. Never forget who you are and what you are trying to acheive in life. Life is incredibly short and you should live as if you are going to do it all. You should work hard to become the best that you can be at what you want to do and it will pay off. But remember: the whole time you are in college, you are always thinking of crossing the stage and being on the other side as an alumnus, but you should also take the time and enjoy being young and having the freedom to do what you want now. These are the days that will make you and take you throughout your life. Never give up what you want to do.

Samantha

I would tell myself to study harder for the ACT and to do extensive research on the colleges of my choice. Look into every aspect of every college I would consider applying to. Make sure that you give yourself options and as many opportunities as possible. Apply to more than one school. Although I got accepted to the college of my choice, I should have made options available to me. Also, start saving money for application fees and books for your first year. Start resesarching scholarships and grants available to you. Do not procrastinate when it comes to deciding about your future. Prepare yourself well. Study hard, relax, play hard, and strive for the best. Make sure you have social and family support behind you, it is a very essential piece of the college puzzle. Don't let partying and relationships and stress affect your performance. Senior year is not the end, it is just the begining of the rest of your life. Make it count. Have fun but work hard. Look forward to every part of your life from here on out. You really can do anything you put your mind to if you work hard enough.

Catherine

I would tell myself to never give up no matter how hard it seems. I know I can and will succeed, but I must be patient and always remember that hard work pays off eventually. Also to try to have a little more fun in college. Always be true to yourself.

Lindsey

I would tell myself to be open to new experiences and to not be afraid of doing new things. Coming to a University this size can be overwhelming, but if you come in willing to meet new people and be exposed to different things you will be successful. Do not procrostinate on school work or skip classes and it should not be hard to be successful in classes.

Ashley

I would first of all tell myself to apply for every scholarship I am available because finding scholarships as a college student is much more difficult than as a high school senior. Also I would teach myself an entirely different approach to studying that I found I had to adapt to when I first came to college. I did not realize the importance of developing a personal relationship with professors either when I first came to college so I would recommend introducing yourself the first day of class and following up weekly with questions you have.

Henry

I would advise myself to begin preparation for college immediately, for that is the key to success. Accomplishing tasks and sorting things out as early as possible are essential in this preparation. Be studious, but not so much that your life completely revolves around academics. Volunteer for and join organizations, for not only the opportunity to socialize with like-minded people, but to genuinely feel a part of something that is a force for good. In essence, try your best at everything you undertake.

Alicia

It is vital that you get a good education. Going to the right college will give you that opportunity. I would like to make sure that you know that college is not a place to go and think that all will be fun and games. You will not be able to party all night and every weekend. You must give ample time to your studies or your grades will reflect whether or not you study. I don't mean that you can't go out with friends at times, but you must be mature enough to know what study time your classes will need. Your parents are sending you to college to get a good education. You will need to develop good study/eating habits because without these two things, your time in college will not be very successful. Learn to network with others who are studying the same thing. It helps to know someone when the going gets a little tough. YOU MUST ATTEND CLASS AT ALL TIMES, UNLESS SOMETHING IMPORTANT COMES UP. Learn to communicate with your instructor. Sometimes they can be intimidating, but let them know who you are and why you are there. Good Luck! :)

joseph

Save up money.

Ashley

High school is great, so don't rush it. Attending college is a big step, but it is worth the uncertainty. Going to a small community college before the four year college is the best move to make. The transition is so much nicer, you are introduced to college expectations, but you have the comfort of being in an environment that isn't such a far stretch from high school. Finish the basics there, it's easier to have those out of the way, so when the time comes, you can focus on what you really love: your major. Be careful to double check what your advisors tell you will transfer. In fact, it's best to find someone who has already been through the transferring process, they will be a world of help. Finally, when you get there, have fun. Grades are important, but don't stress; ten years from now, you will tell your kids about the fun things that you did, not what your GPA was. And remember, this is a means to an end. Keep your goals in sight because you will have some tough days, but you'll make it!

Kristin

I would make sure that I don't fret over the situation. What happens is always for a reason and you can find happiness in any situation you face. Go somewhere unfamiliar, try new things. Don't go to the same place where all your friends will be. The college experience is about new things and meeting new people and you won't get that by going where all of your friends are going, or where you feel extremely comfortable.

christen

Make sure you get involved in campus activities. It is a good way to build your resume, make friends, and stay positive through out school. never be afraid to ask for help, use all the free help you can get and never be afraid to ask questions

Zarie

Dont worry about the social life, beacuse you have plenty time for that. Your main concern needs to be your GPA. Once you eff up that it is hard to bring it back up.

Britten

nothing, i live life with no regrets. there is nothing i would change because everything i have made mistakes on, i've only learned from them and become a better person.

Sarah

I would love to share some wise words with my high school senior self. I would remind her that she is a smart and beautiful woman who is capable of pursuing any career she wants. I would tell her that she is a leader and should set the trends instead of following them. I would tell her not to sweat the small stuff. I would tell her to remember who she is and where she came from. I would tell her to guard her heart and her values. I would tell her that her relationships with friends and family are the most precious thing she has and to treat them as such. I would tell her to be patient and kind to others. I would tell her to enjoy this time with her whole heart because it flies by faster than you realize! Most of all I would remind her that life is precious. It serves no purpose to worry too much about the past or tomorrow. Let things go that you cannot change and live each day or your life to the fullest.

Kylie

I would tell myself to save up to live on campus or go to a school that's not close to where I live. I feel like I'm not even a college student because I don't have the normal college experience as my classmates. It also would make things so much easier being able to live close or on campus instead of living so far out it's impossible to go home between classes because of time and gas.

Natalie

Always do the thing you most desire. Dont let the ability to get a job form your desicion for college. Thats what grad school is for. Do something you are going to truely appreciate and really be passionate about. Only then wil lyou really put forth the real effort in learning and caring about your studies.

Daniella

It is important to look at all your options throughly and know which place is best and right for you. Being in college its easy to get caught up in a lot of different things so also making sure you surround yourself with good people and ones you can trust is very important as well.

Jesse

I would tell my senior self to live it up in high schoo because college is a lot harder.

Dan

I would tell myself to go to The University of Alabama. I have not regretted it since coming here. First off, the financial aid is excellent, especially for high academic achievers. In addition, the housing is amazing and the people are VERY friendly. Also, having the number 1 football team in the country is a plus. The most important part of my time here, however, has been the Computer Based Honors Program, or CBHP. It is a program dedicated specifically to undergraduate research projects. I am currently working with a professor from the civil engineering department to code small radio transcievers to keep track of equipment on large scale construction sites, and I am only a sophomore! The University has spent over 2000 dollars on our research initiative.

Senthony

dont exspect so much out of college.

Nakeisha

To work harder in school and to save my money. To make lots of friends and to go out and meet people. College doesnt seem that hard but it is and to stay on top of my work, dont lag behind.

ashley

I would probably try and teach myself good study skills as a high school student and try and keep my options open for the schools i would choose to go to college to.

Jesse

The purpose of this letter is to inform you (myself) that although high school has been very fun and rewarding, college is much better and will be even better for you if you adhere to my advice. First of all, I wish to inform you that the transition to college is actually going to be very difficult to handle. Living in a dorm and away from your parents for the first time in your life is going to be quite the experience. Know that many of your friends will fail out of school by the second semester because they are not mature enough to know at what times it is acceptable to cut loose. However, you will find that by following your father's advice of studying during the week and only partying during the weekends will come in handy. Also, unlike highschool, you will realize that cramming information for a test into your brain in one night and not going to sleep is not very effective anymore. Furthermore, to do good in school and have a supportive lifestyle, I encourage you to become friends with as many people in the Chemical Engineering department as possible.

Corrie

Looking back, I would advise myself to take my schoolwork much more serious and establish a study plan. Along with schooling, I would myself to become more social and join more clubs and organizations to make useful connections to use in the future.

Ashley

That i should always take college seriously, and in order to better myself, I should choose the college that is best for me. I should check out pontential great colleges to see if it actually suits me. I should also seriously think about a major that I would really love and something I would enjoy.

Jennifer

Take it easy on your parents. I know you are more than ready to escape the small town you have always lived in and step into semi-independence, but Dad is going to miss you more than you could ever know. You are his baby girl. When he emails, respond quickly. When he calls you, don't ignore him. Visit him every chance you get. Don't you dare forget his birthday. He is going to download a ringtone by Sugarland called "Baby Girl." I know you hate that song, but when he sets it as your ringer id and asks you if you like it, say, "I love it". Remember, he is just like you. If you miss him, he misses you more. When you get homesick, call him. When you need some advice, ask him. Even if you already know what you should do, ask him anyway; he gets a confidence boost when he sees that you are willing to learn. Constantly remind him that you love him and appreciate everything he does for you. Whatever you do, do not let him down. You mean the world to him. His world rides on your shoulders. Make him proud.

Matthew

I would strongly encourage students to seek a college that best suits their needs. Make sure that the university of interest has a good department in your intended field of study and that you will be able to succeed in that environment. Don't go to a university just because your friends are going; you may come to dispise it quickly. Go to a college that is right for you. The most important aspect of the college experience is stepping out. Do not be afraid to leave your comfort zone and have fun.

Jenny

The right college choice is not always depending on what the school offers academically. You need to have a feeling for the atmosphere of the school, and if it fits you, then you will have made a good choice. Making the most of the college experience starts right away, and it is up to the student. You have to put yourself out there and step out of your comfort zone just a little. If you do, you will not regret the new and great things you will experience.

Nichole

Finding the college that best suits a person's expectations can be a difficult task. The best way to approach this decision is to pick your favorite five. Then, compare each college. Consider the size of the campus, the student-to-faculty ratio, the diversity, and the extra-curricular activities available. These are only a few of the examples to compare. Safety is also a contributing factor. When you know what you're looking for, take the opportunity to actually visit the campuses you're most interested in. Try to meet some new friends while you're there. They can give you the best perspective on the college life. Meet a few teachers in your field. When you choose your college, check out all the activities they have to offer. Being involved gives you a better chance of finishing college. However, don't sign up for every organization and spread yourself too thin. Just pick a few, and dedicate your time to those. That will make the best impression in a future job interview. But most importantly, just have fun. College years are the most important of your life. Those are most times where you find you life-time friends.

NiCarla

Remember that the ultimate goal is finding a school that best fits your child. This is the students opportunity to grow and mature. Don't hold them back because you're scared to let go.

Amber

Sending a child off to college is not an easy task, and for most families proves to be a stressful time, but that does not have to be the case. Finding the perfect college can be alot simpler if parents and students would make a few changes to the way things are typically done. Students should start with college visits their sophomore or junior year of high school to gain exposure to the campus atmosphere. Junior year of students can begin filling out college applications, but before that they should create a check list of things they expect from a college and begin crossing schools off due to inadequacies. The check list should include items like academic major, eating options, housing, costs and financial aid, location, and amenities. Narrow the list down to three schools and apply. You may finalize your choice by personal preference. I would like to encourage any college student to take advantage of today and plan for tomorrow it's something that I live by and has yet to fail me. Be sure to have fun, work hard and build networks to advance your career beyond the classroom.

Randi

I would tell parents and students to take tours of any school they are interested in because it can change your total perception of the school. You might think the school is the one for you, but when you finally step on campus it could totally change and be nothing like you expected or be everything you expected. So, look into everything and make sure you (the prospective student) makes the final choice of where you want to end up.

Jordan

When finding the right college, students should attend a full orientation. Also, students should spend the night on campus to get the full efffect of campus life. If a student does this with several different colleges, he or she will be able to narrow down the decision.

Shawn

The biggest mistake I believe I made in choosing a college was not choosing based on the schools reputation in my planned major. The University of Alabama is not known for its engineering; it is known for football and business. I would also suggest that students should not join fraternities or sororities, as this limits the people you can socialize with. Other than that, I would just say to make sure you can meet new people; do not go to a college that all of your friends are going to.

FabryeAnne

Start Early! The key to finding the right college and enjoying the college experience is to start early. Being potent in all your decisions will allow you to take full advantage of the college life.

Kayla

I would advise that you weigh all your options and decide which school is best for your major. I went to my favorite school but didnt take into account what was best for my major, therfore, i am now transfering. I would also consider the costs. Parents and Students need to communicate well and work together on making decisions about costs. For students: get involved in anything that interests you because that will only make your college experience better. Live your life to the fullest and do everything you want. You are young and now is the time to experience everything you can before your out in the big world on your own. Last but not least, HAVE FUN! College isnt all fun and games but you cant be all hung up on school work. Take some time for yourself and make sure you have a great time.

Lauren

Regardless of what you hae heard about a particular college, it is important to go there yourself and decide what college is the best fit for what you are looking for in your college experience.

Willie

For both is to be strong and let things fall into place.

Adam

When beginning the daunting yet exciting task of choosing a college, there can be no greater advice given to you than simply ?be true to yourself?. Don?t go where friends are going simply in fear of the lonesome embark on the journey of college. Go where you need to go. If that happens to be the place where your friends end up, so be it, but you will have new friends wherever you go. Be true to yourself.

Angela

Really look into the school you are considering to attend. Make sure the school's environment fits your personality and, most importmantly, make sure that the school have the major that you would like to study.

Kenny

The most important thing parents and their children should do when looking for a college, is to start early! At least after your child completes their junior year, you need to start looking for colleges that interest you and have the right blend of academic and social life for your child. Not everyone can excel and enjoy college in a rigorous academic setting; some cannot handle all the freedom at a big party school. So, finding a school with the perfect balance of academic rigor and extracurricular activities is another important factor in finding the right college for your child. Living on campus my first two years helped me make the most of my college experience. I was able to get to know my roommates and floor-mates and start out with a good group of friends. As far as academics go, my motto is simple: start early, study often. To excel academically, do your homework right after class, and review your notes every couple of days. This helps you stay prepared while still having your nights and weekends free to hang out with friends.