The University of Virginia’s College at Wise Top Questions

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

tara

Dont change anything that you have done. You have made the best decision by choosing to go to this college. I would also tell myself to buy weather related clothing.

Jamie

As a freshman here at UVA Wise, ultimately I have learned to discipline myself to reach the goals I set. Graduating high school was a big success to me and being able to push myself and now being at college is ... quite the astonishment. A few years ago I had no goals, and I really didn't think I would graduate, now that I'm here and in the process of getting my degree, I have a faith in myself that I never had before. Attending college here has fully opened my eyes to a world where I know I can do anything if I set my mind to it. I have become an extremely hard worker and now that I've made it this far, nothing can stop me. Being here at UVA Wise has changed my life in many ways. Overall though, Wise has taught me nothing is impossible, and as long as I'm willing to do the work, I can take my life in any direction that I wish.

Justin

My tolerance to other people and their culture has been the greatest experience to date. I am from a totally different background than 80{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of my classmates. My school is in a very rural setting and i am used to more of a city environment. I have had to adapt to different and sometimes given up certain conveniences.

Jeshua

Out of attending The University of Virginia's College at Wise, I have received so much that has enabled me to grow intellectually and become a very well rounded persron. I have always had a sense of respect, but coming to this college has enabled me to refine that and set an example for my peers. The amount of knowledge that I have attained over the two semesters that I have attended at the college is substantial and is very beneficial to my future as a Computer Software Engineer. I find that one should take what they learn in school and apply it to the real world, so why not do this with ones education? The University of Virginia's College at Wise has benefited me by giving me the ability to understand many complex situations and resolve problems in the student body. Thank you for your time and consideration.

gregory

That is a hard question but here is what I would says "Keep working hard and never give up on your dreams you will make them come true some day." I will be a long road that you must walk but it will be worth it in the end. You will be close to your family and you will be even closer to your dreams. The people that you will met will point you in the right direction you just have to trust them . The people and the expenices that you will have gained more knowledge in a life time then if sat there and did nothing. So go after your dreams anything is possiable if you try. The last thing I would say is " Belive in yourself and the world can be yours."

Meghan

Knowing what I know now, I would tell myself to step back and think about my decision to go to Virginia Tech. I would ask myself to consider the fact that I would not know anyone, would be in classes with over 200 people, and that there would be times when people would pressure me to do things that I did not want to do. As a high school senior, I applied to only one college and was accepted via early admissions. I would tell my past-self to consider more options, and to create a back-up plan if I decided that I did not like attending Virginia Tech. I would also tell my high school self to enjoy the simple classes and to start developing better time management and study skills now, because they are valuable assets that can help alleviate stress later on. Finally, and most importantly, I would tell myself to enjoy the time that I have left as a high school student. College is another game entirely: there are many hours studying, irregular class schedules, time away from friends and family, and the high likelihood that you will have to work hard for every penny.

Whitley

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself that college is not one, big party like some people make it out to be. College requires a lot of hard work and going to class in order to make good grades. If I fail a class, then my GPA will be hard to bring back up. I would advise myself to stay focused and work hard to be a success and never let anyone tell me that I can't do it. I would tell myself to be confident and never take on more than I think I can handle. Study hard and prove to yourself and no one else that you are intelligent and can accomplish anything you set your mind to. I would tell myself to never let me down and to always know remember that ambition that I have always had and to never forget that ambition for one second. Always know that I have a chance to be great and I just have to reach for it and let myself have it. If I believe, then I truly can achieve.

Amanda

I would tell myself..." Stop worrying Amanda, you're going to love it. The people wont be as bad as you think. You can handle the classes, you'll prove you can handle anything. Don't be afraid to expand your horizons, and be willing to experiment with your life. Nobody is going to hate you because of where you're from. The stereotypes are not as strong as you think. Just relax, enjoy your senior year and get ready for some of the best times of your life. So, just remember, you have got to stop worrying."

Bridget

Wow i wish i could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior. Knowing what i know now about college life, i would tell myself to not drink alcohol, stay concentrated on your school work and stay away from the guys. I had never drank before until i attended college, everyone did it and i just wanted to try it. I was a great experience but since their was never anything to do at the school on the weekend. I partied all the time, i kept my grades up but it just became a party animal as i became known around college. I fell in love with a boy and when i could have transferred to a better university and i got caught up and my gpa dropped. it's sophmore year now and all i've learned from freshman year. I would smack some scence into my highschool self. Transition is hard and yes you get home sick being so far away but, but i would tell myself you're at college give yourself a good future don't crewe up.

Anne-Michele

I believe that finding the right college is based on your gut instinct. For me, as soon as i saw UVA-Wise, I knew it was the college for me. You do, however, have to keep in mind what you want academically, since that is the most important thing in college. Students must decide what they want out of their college experience. Parents and students alike must look at everything a college has to offer. Ask questions. Consider many options. Students must remember that they are their for their education and should always put that first. However, social life is just as important, so put yourself out there. Get involved in clubs and organizations, don't be shy to make new friends. I believe parents should trust their child that they will choose whatever is right for them, and that they ultimately should make the decision but with the help of the parents. So don't settle for anything less than what you want. Remember, these are supposed to be the best years of your life!

Sarah

Look for a college that just feels right. It should be a place where you feel comfortable and safe. Don't choose a college just because it was where some one you knew went of because it is as far from home as you can get and still be in the state. Know what you plan on studying before you choose a college make shure where you choose to go has an accredited program for what ever topic you choose. Visit all the colleges you think you might want to attend multiple times. Most importantly don't believe everything that tour guides and campus officials tell you when you are look at the college, remember they are trying to sell something to you and are not above streching the truth. Do lots of researce and talk to average students at the college who are not ambasitors they will give you a true sence of what the college is like.

Benjamin

Be positive that the school is where you really want to go

Samuel

From my experience in taking this survey, I would think reading results form similar survey's from magazines, that have articles on colleges state wide. Also going online and researcing, using some of the website focuced on this areas would help.

Lauren

Choose the school that fits you best. Look at all of the options available. Consider the academic programs, residence halls, food, professors, etc. You are going to spend four years of your life at this college so make sure it is the one for you.

Rebecca

Find somewhere that is going to make you feel like home. Many students come to this area being raised in large cities and find the life here quite boring compared to what they like. Make sure the school offers plenty of options in the courses you are interested in.