The University of Alabama Top Questions

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

Morgan

Go where you feel the connection. That's all you need to know.

Danielle

Do your best to select a college that best fits your personality. It is very important that you visit the campus before you decide that is where you would like to go. Research everything that you possibly can about that school and even interview students that go to that college/university. Where you attend college has a huge impact on shaping your life as you become an adult and will be an environment that prepares you to become an individual in the world. Choose wisely as you make this major decision and consider a choice that fits your social, religious, and academic preferences. Making the most of your years at school will be affected by where you go and the people that you meet there. Don't stress, just research and you'll know where the right place is for you.

Corey

Visit the college. You don't get a true picture of the college's atmosphere until you visit it, preferably while classes are in session. Talk to regular students if you can, not just the people who lead you on your tours. Apply for any and all scholarships you can, because you never know what you are applicable for or what you might get, you could be suprised. Always fill out your FAFSA and don't be afraid of getting federal loans. Once you get into college, don't automatically join every thing you can. Take your time to feel out the different organizations and don't be afaid to join one off the beaten path that fits your ideals and hobbies. These are the people you will want to associate with. Last word of advice: go out and have fun, but make sure you are in class on Monday morning, even with a hangover.

Sara

This is a great school. School spirit is high for students and alumni. This UA has a great academic program, and although the couseload can be tough a times, it's such a valuable learning experience. There is a great social atmosphere here, and there seems to be something fun for everyone to do.

Jacob

let the student decide

Graham

Make sure that you travel to as many different colleges as you can. Make the colleges you are looking at offer the degrees you are most interested in. Pick a college with a good surrounding atmosphere because college isn't only about the classrooms.

Casie

Don't focus all on the academic aspect of a college. While that is very important and should be a major deciding factor, make sure that the campus offers some extra cerricular activities that interest you because you won't spend all of your time in the classroom. These activities are a great way to get to know people on campus and learn your way around.

Sara

just go visit the school see what kind of vibe it gives off to you!

Garrett

When choosing a college, learn more about the school outside of the settings. Learn more about the social activities that happen around the school; like the greek life, recreational activities, and sporting events. Also, learn more about how much fundings are given to the college of your choice and whether or not you will have sufficient enough fundings for your education department. Some of the funders are from better paying jobs and give more than others so some areas of education have better facilities than others.

Daniel

Find somewhere that has what you need. If you need the ability to be away from your parents but still close enough that they can help you if you need it, the about an hour from home is a good distance--two hours at the most. If you don't know what you want to do as a student, find a good school with a broad range of studies and then feel it out for up to your first two years in school.

Rachel

I am a girl from a middle-class family, with a lot of upper-class friends. This advice may seem to be on a superficial level, but I feel like it is very important because I see people like me everywhere. My advice to students and their parents is to discuss your financial situation and make an appropriate budget before every semester. I guess my parents assumed I had a better understanding of my spending habits, so we did not talk about money very often. I ended up making several financial mistakes that I'm still working on fixing. When you have friends that don't have to think about money, it is easy to think you can spend as much money as them. Well, that is not the case. When I was worried about my financial situation in school, my schoolwork suffered because I had too much on my mind. I feel like I learned a valuable lesson. It is not smart to try to live outside of your means. Although I have been able to recover from my mistakes, I wish I had been advised about my finances prior to entering college.

Lindsay

Apply to several schools that meet your geographic, and major requirements. Make on campus visits. Meet all deadlines for scholarship applications. Don't worry about the money at first. Don't let cost keep you from applying. If it's a good fit the school should help you find the funds needed. After you are accepted, then decide what school fits the best. Good luck

Lindsey

I would advise parents to tour the school that their child is most interested in and take a look at the buidlings that every student will be in at some point like the English building, Math and Science building etc, to make sure that no course of study is being looked over by the school and that every building offers a healthy learning environment. Some buidlings seem to get neglected and a lot of times it is the ones like the English building where every student on campus will have to take classes in at some point. It is important for parents to make sure that their money is going to provide thier child with a healthy learning environment and not just provide new flowers for the campus each week. Students should take an easy load their first semester to adapt to change and should not allow themselves to lose site of what they are really at college for because after college is over and student loans are there to pay off because one messed around instead of being serious, regreat and debt will overcome you.

Ericka

The advice I would give to parents and/or students about finding the right college and making the most of the college experience would be to visit as many campuses possible on your journey before you finding which one best fits. You never know what you like until you have discovered what you do not like in a college. Until one has researched and received a hand on experience on a collegiate campus, a student or parent will not be able to fully know the benefits the college provides. Make a pros and cons list with the colleges, and you will see which college is worth your time and money. Always important, the financial aid provided within the college can be key to the decision making process as well. It is not a decision that you can make over night. Each college offers different strengths. My advice is to take your time with the decision that can and will affect your career and the rest of your life. Look from every angle and take every step to fully grasp the benefits and avenues provided by the colleges of your choice. No pressure, just have fun with it :)

Kelly

I would tell parents and students to seek out every type of university considered in the application process. I would also tell them to consider out of state schools because it can be an amazing thing, and I speak from experience. I would also tell them to make sure that they visit the universities and take tours.

Danielle

My advice would be to pick a place you would love. I have wanted to go to the University of Alabama since I was young. This is my dream. Following your dreams are key to get you were you need to be in life. As life changes your dream may change, they may take you down a path that you never thought life would lead you down. Never give up even if it seems impossible. Success is always possible as long as you believe in yourself. Do not let others bring you down, show them you can do anything you set your mind to. Success does not discriminate against ethnicity, economic situation, or gender. Stay positive and always look forward. You can do anything you put your mind to, just believe in yourself.

Diana

Make sure you really do your research on colleges. Talk to the students not just the recruiters. That way you really know what campus life is like. If you don't plan on being greek and want to be active, make sure you attend a university where greeks don't control everything. I would love UA if it was not for their corrupt, racist, elitist greek system. The machine is a reality, and if you are not greek, don't even sign up for the SGA because even if you are elected, your opinion wont matter if it does not align with the greeks.

Leigh

I know that big universities are not for everyone, while small private schools are not for everyone as well. I would suggest to all parents and future college students to visit every possible school that they can. Just like I was with the University of Alabama, when you arrive you'll know you're supposed to be there. It just feels like home. When you do choose which school to go to, try to get involved as soon as you get there. I don't know what I would do without my closest friends at school. As long as you are disciplined enough with classwork, you can have as much fun as you want! Live your life in a safe positive way!

Shina

Campus tours are always great. If the students like to travel home often then closing a school that is far away is not always in their best interest. Research the school thoroughly and find out what student organzation they have that they may be interested in.

Angela

Learn, live, and have fun. This school is great, you just have to find you place.

Mallory

I would tell them to look around at as many colleges as possible. Never go with only your first choice. Don't base your choice on only the academic aspects of the school, but on the social aspects as well. There is nothing worse than choosing a great academic school when it is full of people that you don't want to be around.

Rachel

Visit the college campuses! Think about your values and what is important to your life. Consider the area around the school (big city, small town, suburbs?). Study hard and do not procrastinate because the acadamics of college will be much more challenging and labor intensive. Make good habits. Be willing to stay in on a weekend if you have big projects or papers coming up. It will make your life so much easier. Always look at the classes required and double check your advisors; they make mistakes! Find a church or social group to be involved in. Be outgoing and meet people, especially people in your major. You will need the people in your major for group work, contacts, tutoring, etc. Get to know your professors where they will be willing to help you and know your character. GO TO CLASS! Teachers do notice whether you are there or not. In summary: BE BALANCED.

Justin

Visit the colleges you are interested in. Plan several trips so that you really get to see the activity of the campus. Go at different times of the year and get involved with a campus tour. The best time to see what a college campus is really like is to attend a major sporting event. This way you as a parent will see what you child may be doing when you aren't around and you can discuss these things before they enroll. As a prospective student, don't become overwhelmed by everything! You'll soon find your niche and become a part of a group of friends just like you. Whatever you choose, have fun and try to balance studies with free time for yourself to unwind. Keeps the stress level down!

Lindsey

Don't go to the college because everyone else is going there. Strive to stay involved. Study before play time. Nurture the friends you meet and you will fin they are just as scared as you are.

Marc

Always visit the school a student is planning to attend. Many times you can pick up the type of environment the school has. Academics are important for a school, but the environment will impact a student's ability to meet those standards met by the University. Students are there for school, but there are so many experiences outside of the classroom where a student finds out who he or she really is. Whether it be in a residence hall, football game, or party, students should experience the struggles of social life and academic life. The school week is important, and it should be heavily devoted to doing well in the classroom. The weekend should be regarded as part of the school week too. Without this, I do not know how any student can perform well in the classroom. But a student should also get out and explore what the college town has to offer to get the most out of their college experience.

Jessica

I would give the advice of finding the right college by first looking at the education aspect of the school, the campus, the students/faculty, and social aspects as well. All of these factors are important in finding the right college. The education is important to look at as one is attending college to further their learning and it is important for the school to have a strong education background. Also, it is good to make sure that one likes the layout of the campus, and if the students seem nice and the faculty is experienced and good teachers overall. It's also important to make sure there are some social aspects such as sports, movies, etc., where one could have the opportunity have fun and take some much needed breaks from campus or school. In order to make the most of one's college experience, one needs to do well in their classes, get out there and meet as many people as one can, to also have some fun every now and then, and to participate in some on-campus activities & clubs.

Lelia

Searching for the right college is one of the most important decisions that face students. The most important thing about the right college for you or your student is feeling comfortable on the campus. Without loving the campus, the rest of the college experience will not be all it can be! I was lucky in that my program is only offered at a few schools, so that narrowed my choices down. It is also important to be involved in what you enjoy in college, but not at the sacrifice of your studies. The main thing is just finding a school that you love and that will help you to be the best person you can be!

Kurt

Take as many visits as possible. DO NOT go to a college just because it is close to home or because that is where your friends are going. Look into the future when deciding. I know it is scary to think but you need to pick a college that has a strong program in what you intend to major in. Other than that best of luck and I hope that they find the college that best suits them.

Adam

I would definitely visit the campus, know the climate, and know what type of people attend the university.

Adam

Look at schools outside of your geographic area. Apply to different types of schools. Think about organizations and activities you want to take part in before you enroll. Make sure you're active as a student.

Elizabeth

When choosing the best college for you, be sure to visit all prospects. Take snapshots of the facade of the stateliest building and of the bathroom floor in your potential dorm. Paste the respective pictures onto a list of your pros and cons for the school. Once you have created your list, ask someone who attends the college in question to make a list of his or her pros and cons. This person will include items you cannot know yet, such as if the school has a terrible roach problem. Add the student's list into yours wherever you choose. Follow the aforementioned steps for each prospective college. Next, forget about the lists for two weeks. Has it been two weeks yet? OK, look at the lists again and re-slate anything as you see fit. Now comes the hard part: ranking your lists. From there, pull your top two lists and play eeny meeny miny mo. Unless, of course, you think it would be a better decision to analyze these top two lists according to your rationale and opinions. Remember that you will get out of college what you put into it. Good luck with your decision!

Cole

I feel as though a prospective student should think the decision through quite well. You have to find an institution which you will benefit academically and one which will put you in a good position to be successful in the future. Look into what you are planning on studying and see what the school offers - you are there to learn what you believe will excite you and assist you in the professional world. More importantly - you are going to be an Undergraduate for four years which means being comfortable in your surroundings will greatly benefit you.

Zachary

Number one rule: Visit the campus beforehand Number two rule: Don't be afraid to ask students on campus their opinions Number three rule: Try your hardest to make good grades early in your academic career, these grades weigh heavily in your GPA

Whitney

Make sure that your college choice is best for you, the student, not your parents or anyone else. You are doing this to make a better life for yourself, so make sure you are doing this for you and not for other reasons.

Jenny

When choosing a college, first look for what you are really interested in and then the quality of the program offered at the college. Do not look at sport issues. A college with a good sports team but bad program does not benifiit you in the long run when you go look for a job.

Andrew

The greatest advice I can give to parents and students about finding the right college is go outside of your comfort zone. The college experience is all about finding yourself. Throughout college, students face many hardships whether they be social, financial, or academic, they are definately out there. I believe in order to make the most out of your college experience is the cliche statement about balancing studying and partying is key. It has taken me three years to realize who I am and what I want to do but now that I have found myself, its much more relieving. Throughout my college experience, I personally have faced many hardships, but I have found most of them were brought on by myself. Time management is a must. In a nut shell, have fun, study, make lots of friends, find yourself, and move out of your comfort zone in order to find the right college and make the most of the one you choose.

Blake

I would consider all colleges based on what field my child was wanting to enter then research what type's of programs and networking that particular school offers. I would also strongly encourage the magnitude of studying and keeping your grades up to par in order to graduate with a respectable degree. Getting invloved with your peers and professors is also a big deal as this may be an employer or potential refrence for your career.

Kellen

Make sure there are job opportunitues for the major you choose!

Krysta

College is a great experience that everyone should have the opportunity to participate in. Don't be afraid to get out there and visit college campuses, the more choices you have the better your chances of finding the right campus for you. Try to stay ahead of the game, visit with advisors and tour the campus before your first semester begins. Don't be intimidated, tons of other students have no idea where there classes are either, so don't be afraid to ask. Enjoy the experience, while it is important to make sure that you get your studies done one should also make time to get out and socialize and make new friends. Remember that you have family that love you at home and that if you ever need anything you can call them 24/7. Finally uphold your morals, don't be afraid to show your true colors and the wonderful person that you really are. I hope that you enjoy college as much as I do and that your experience is fruitful and intriging.

Batrina

When it comes to finding the right college I would tell students that they should research at least the top 5 schools that have the best program available for them in regards to their major. Next I would tell the student and their parents to research the cost of attendance at the school that bests fits them and make sure that this school is in your price range. When it comes to making the most of the college experience the student should stay as focused as possible because there are alot of obstacles that come to get you off track when you go to college. Also I would tell the student to get as involved as possible so that they can get the most that college can offer them which includes a nice social life!

Kristen

I would say to just listen to your heart when you are visiting colleges. Generally, if you instantly feel at home on a campus, then it is probably right for you. That's the way I felt at the University of Alabama, and I wouldn't have loved any other school as much as I did Bama.

Brian

Finding the right college can be more about following your gut then all of the research in the world. Definitely do your research and see what is best based on what you would like to do with your life. However, if you visit a school and do not feel like you will fit in, you might not. The right school will not only have the qualities you are looking for with your education, but will have the correct atmosphere to enable you to succeed. To make the most of your college experience, don't be afraid to get involved in on-campus organizations. Find common links with people and embrace them. The people you connect with in college will be your friends for the rest of your life. Another recommendation is to go to one of your school's sporting events with a fan. Even if you personally have never been to a game, the atmosphere may draw you in. Enjoy all of the new experiences college offers.

Ashlyn

Making the right college choice is a difficult process for High School students, but once you are on the right path your selection can be easy. My advice would be to start the process by taking the SAT and ACT test. After getting your results go to your High School counselor and discuss what area of education you would like to study in college. The high school counselors are great at helping students look for colleges or universities that may fit their style of learning. After that, make a list of schools you would like to visit and go to visit them. This is an excellent opportunity to see the campus. You can get a feel for the environment in which you will be learning in and a chance to meet some faculity memebers. If you can do a campus tour, you can get a lot of information about about the school. That is what convienced me to attend The University of Alabama. I found it to be a very friendly atmosphere. The knowledge for higher education was present and the faculty members that I met were very enthusiastic and happy to answer any questions we had about college selections.

Daniella

I would suggest that you look at all your options carefully and seriously weigh all the pros and cons. Education is very important and you want to find the best school for you. Also visiting and getting to know the campuses is very helpful.

Ninna

The advice I would give parents and/or students about finding the right college and making the most out of the college experience would be to visit as many different colleges as possible. Talk with the students and professors at the colleges the student and family visit and throughout the visit notice the way the students interact with one another. How comfortable a student feels on a campus can be a big determining factor, as well as if the college offers the program that a student is wanting to enter. When it comes to making the most out of the college experience, remember to have fun and study. Making sure that the work is done before the fun helps relieve a lot of stress and makes college a lot more enjoyable. Meet new people and have study dates or just hang out. Some of the friends that are made in college will become life long friends.

Paige

Any student who has decided to attend college should evaluate his/her options thoroughly and in depth before making any kind of decision. Any stuent looking at colleges should know that the process of deciding on a college can and will be overwelming at times. However, making a list of both qualities one wants and does not want in a university, I believe, is the first step---deciding whethere one wants a big or small campus, rural or urban environment, public or private, and deciding in what geographical area the student would like to study in. After that comes investigating individual, specific, universities--it's especially important to have "visit days" at universities, beacuse it gives one the chance to sit in on classes, talk to students, and really get a "glimpse" at what life at a particular college would be like. During the application process, it is also very important to not only apply to the schools one is more interested in, but to also apply to a few "backup school" in case one does not get accepted to the schools of his/her choice. Overall, stay calm, focused, open, and never afraid to ask questions!

Tanjula

The advice I would give to students is that you shouldn't choose a college based on financial issues; just because a school offers you a scholarship, doesn't mean that it is the right school for you. You should choose a school that has a surrounding in which you will feel comfortable learning in, because if you are not comfortable then you might have to deal with things like depression and anxiety problems.

T'Chilandria

Make sure that you let the incoming college student make that decision as to what college they want to attend. not somewhere their parents or any other family memebers want them to go. Also when you have made ur decision it is vital that you prepare yourself ahead of time, to make it easier on yourself when you first go off to school.

Amber

To study, go to class, adnd don't be shy

Cody

If someone doesn't really know where they want to go to school, the best thing to do would be visit several campuses, meet some of the faculty and current students, ask questions, and just talk to people. After they've had some time to marinate on everything they've seen, read, and heard about the school, they can forget all of it. You can't base a life changing decision on someone else's experience or what you hear from other people. You have to go where you feel most comfortable and where your heart tells you to go. I visited other college campuses before visiting the University of Alabama and I liked a couple of them, but when I came here I felt at home and that's the best feeling you can have, because where ever you choose to go to school that will be your home for the next four years. When someone does decide on a school, they need to get involved in some kind of organization, whether it be an intramural team, a fraternity/sorority, or club.