The University of West Florida Top Questions

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

Evan

I look back on my high school career with a significant amount of remorse. There are a thousand things that I wish I could go back and fix. However that's not the case, and every moment that I spent in indignant reflection was merely another moment in the present that I was wasting. I can't go back, I can't start over, but I can apply the things I learned so that I never make the same mistakes again. I created a list of 4 things that I would use everyday to help me self-actualize and gain the satisfaction with my life that I needed. Number one: go out of my way everyday to meet new people and experience new things. Number two: never alienate the people I love, including friends and family. Number three: do more of the things I love, including surfing, drag racing, and big wall rock climbing. Number four: never waste another minute to innactivity. So much wisdom and self- realization lies in nature. You need to get out and push your comfort zone to find it. I just wish I could send those four rules back to myself, but I can't.

Rigel

Work harder my last year than the other three years of high school.

Kim

I would of told myself to do community service so I could get more benefits from my current scholarship. I would also have told myself to do the AP classes that I didnt want to take.

Lerren

I would tell myself to start developing a better study habit.

Drysanna

If I could go back and talk with myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to pick a major between your freshman year and sophmore years of college after you have visited the career services center on campus and spoken with different students or graduates in the field your interested in. And do not wait until your junior year to put in your major because you will be behind.

Jason

Education is freedom.

Ambre

I would definitely tell myself to enjoy college, but be careful of many things. I would tell myself to make sure to do as well as possible in all academics, not to procrastinate, and value everything. I would also make sure I did more research into major choices before picking one based on where I think my interests lie. I would also make sure I learned all about the less pleasant realities of college and what can happen, and ensure I educated myself and all of my friends on the dangers of sexual assault and stress that you really can never trust anyone, so they should watch out for themselves and each other.

Heather

I would say study harder, get more involved, and to just relax; these are going to be the best four years of your life.

Kevin

The only advice that I would give myself would be to become more open. College is one of best times of your life and yet is only last 4 years. That is a really short period of time. Go out and do things that you have never done before. Grow and explore who you truly are. Become a leader and let your friends come to you. In college you are going make some of your best friends so do not be afraid to talk or hang out with anyone. The person that may look like the type of person you would want to hang out may not be the friend you are looking for. It's going to be the people you least expect that are going to become your best friends. Drop the shyness and learn to live and have fun. If you do this from the beginning your college experience will be even more enjoyable than what it is. Though just make sure you do complete your school work and go to class. Have fun, just not too much fun.

Christoher

I would advice myself to always strive to succeed, never to settle. I would tell myself to continue to be outgoing and try new things because you never know what new things can lead to if you never try them. I would stress the importance of education in my life and the importance of time management and good communication skills in every aspect of life. Above all, I would tell myself that no matter what happens, when the going gets tough, to always keep your friends close and to have some time for yourself to relax because if you never have time for yourself or your friends you won't be truly happy and the struggles you face in college will overwhelm you.

Amber

Do not take easy classes your last year. Take as many dual enrollment classes as you can. Don't overload your first semester.

Jeddah

I would have worked harder to get a 3.9 or higher

Tiffany

I wouldn't of waited so long to go to college and get a degree. I would of put my education first, and persued my dreams. You learn from the mistakes you make.

Kate

The one regret I have regarding my college experience is not taking the best financial offer presented to me. After being accepted to several colleges and receiving many academic scholarship offers, I chose to accept a scholarship covering partial tuition at a private four year college. My decision was affected by factors that I now realize were not what mattered. I based my decision on the prestige of the school, the beauty of the campus, and the desire to attend a college outside of my tiny hometown. I now realize my concern should've been what the institution could offer me in reaching my long term goals. In hindsight I would have investigated the facets of the education department, the financial contribution I would be required to make, and whether credits earned from this college would transfer. By the time I earned my bachelor's degree I had attended four colleges, lost thirty credits and paid my own tuition. In hindsight I should have attended the local junior college that offered me a Presidential Scholarship. I likely would've still transferred to the University of West Florida, for its proximity to my home, impressive education department and reasonable tuition.

Dylan

When you first get to school do not be shy, everyone is there for the same reason and is very willing to help. Meet as many people as possible, gaining new aquaintances and friends is a wonderful way to increase your social life and open a plentiful amount of new opportunities for you. One of the worst things you could do is to procrastinate on your work, the way college is set up is most of the time things are fairly easy going. The majority of your classes seem to go by the schools schedule so the majority of your tests will be around the same time, so it becomes very difficult for you when the time comes around. Most importantly enjoy it, embrace everything possible, and gain as much knowledge availible!

Jeanine

If granted the opportunity to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would have plenty of advice to offer regarding the financial aspect of higher education. I'd tell myself to do my research, to make sure I had my financial aid situation all figured out. I'd tell myself to cut back on the intensive studying, just a little, to apply to one or two essay contests and a few outside scholarships. I'd encourage communication with both my financial aid officer and local banker. And above all, I'd advise myself to rethink my decision to reject a full scholarship at an accredited university for an ivy league education. The reason for this last piece of advice being that I currently find myself working full-time during a voluntary leave of absence as opposed to pursuing my passion for learning and furthering my academic studies at Columbia University.

Mary

Education is not about the grades or the final piece of paper handed to you at the end! Education is a transforming journey that will encompass your classes, your professors, your friends, your outside activities and some serious self work! Be open to more than just proving yourself by achieving an A. That's completely missing the point of education and you can really benefit (and have a whole lot more fun) if you are looking at the college experience as a wholesome activity, not just a means to an end. Yes, work hard on your classes and do well, but also breath deeply, form a community, and make sure to be open to the college experience changing you in a lot more ways than only intellectually.

Alicia

Go to a Junior college as long as possible and pay attention!

Rebekah

As a high school senior I was always looking for fun on the weekend. It was hard to go from hanging out and watching movies with friends to working all day and staying up at night to do homework. If I could give myself any advice I would remind myself to spend more time applying for scholarships as a senior and not going out. It seems even now that even after I graduated with my Bachelors that I still am used to the act of staying home. As teacher now, I understand that some students don?t have the ambition to ever go to college and I realize that it is my job to spend my time to encourage them to do their best. Even in elementary school, students would rather play video games instead of doing homework. I give them the same advice as I would give myself that if you don?t try now, education will be harder later in life.

Brittany

As a college student, I cannot say that this journey has been easy. However, I have made the most of it. Which has made me even more statisfied with my choice to stay in the university. So my advice is to not really look at the university you are attended or will be attending, but you look at yourself. No matter what, make yourself the success and make the best out of any situation.

Aneshia

Students need to research all the possible schools for them. They need to learn about the classroom size, athletics, academics, majors offered, and the cafeteria. Also, the students need to learn what college will be best for them. Parents need to weigh in the financial situation and see if this college will work in their budget. If a student is set on an expensive college; they need to be willing to fill out scholarships. Most importantly, students need to visit all of the possible colleges. Personally, this is how I chose The University of West Florida as my final choice. The campus felt like home, and I felt very comfortable. Actually visiting the college of your choice can be a major deal breaker. As long as the student and parent take into account all of these things, their choice should be the right one in the long run.

cara

choose wisley find one you like not that everyone else likes dont choose for the parting choose for the education

Victoria

Advise I would give to students is, do not get distracted from reaching your ultimate goal. Life can be fun but temptation can also twist your path in ways you aren't meaning to go. Surround yourself with a group of people that support you and your goals.

ERICA

You have to just feel it; go with your gut! Give your child some opinionsand options and let them choose. Don't put pressure on them about decalring a major their freshmen year. Parents try and be supportive no matter what they choose as their major. It will all work out in the end. Besides life is a journey , let your child find their own path tot venture down!

Tasha-Marie

Choosing a college is very hard. Make sure your child or the student have the requirements of the school they apply to. Even if you do not meet the requirements, nothing beats a trial but a failure. Be involved in school or community activites! Take rigorous courses! Dont be discouraged if you are not accepted, it is not the end of your life. Just remember ,it does not matter what school you attend is how you make use of the resources to gain the knowlege in order to excel in your future career.

Jelice

The adviceI would give parents or students about finding the right college and making the most of the college experience would include finding the appropiate school that fits them, not what sounds good or looks big. Finding or choosing the right school is important and could be the biggest decision a person has to make. Just remember to look at more than one school, take names and ask around and if needed schedule a tour of the school before enrolling. It is always best to see and be apart of that campus before have to recieve your education there.

Kimberly

The best advice that I can give to students would be research all the schools before committing. There are so many schools across the nation that offer great educational knowledge. The more research that is done, the more comfortable they will feel about the final decision. As far as making the most of the college experience, don't be afraid to try new things. Always remember that it doesn't matter what other people think, just try it, you only live once. You never know, you just might like it!

Jenna

Don't settle for the first acceptance letter you get. But be sure to find the school that fits your individual needs. By now, most individuals know their learning style. Find out the primary teaching methods used at the schools you are interested in and be sure it is a good match. If you know you are a kinetic learner, you know that a college lecture consistently using power points would not be the most successful match for you. There are classes and schools available for every type of learner. Do not settle for the college closest to you or the one that XYZ relative graduated from. You need to find the school that has the right program to motivate you to be your best. If you are interested and actively engaged you will be more prepared to enter the workforce and be prosperous in your future endeavors. The financial aspect is important but don't make that the bottom line. Be sure to check all your resources for ways to pay for your schooling. Don't take no for an answer, if you have found the right school, you can find a way to match your budget!

Ashley

Don't think that just because while you're in high school you want to get away from home that you'll still feel that way after you leave. It took leaving home and moving 2,000 miles away for me to realize what a homebody I really am. Don't make your decisions based on what your parents want, where your friends are going, or where your boyfriend/girlfriend is going. Doing that is only going to end up with you at the wrong school and miserable. College is supposed to be the best time of your life, but for that to be true, you have to do what you want to do. Once you get to college, I strongly recommend living on campus at first. If you don't, you'll never meet anyone new. Join clubs or get a job around the school so you can find people with similar interests. The best part about that is that you might even be able to study together. Most importantly, have fun! I'm not saying don't do your schoolwork, but find a good balance.

Hiren

i chosed my right college UWF in small town Pensacola, FL and i wanted to live in small town. I liked to live in small town and saving money for gas because of low traffic. UWF is a nice college for me and have a lot of friendly people in UWF.

Tania

STUDY! Keep focused and stay on track with your classes. As soon as you fall behind classes become tougher then they really are. Anyone can do well in school as long as they stay on schedule with their classes. It only takes a half an hour to an hour to do this. Just stay focused on what you really want. It is easy to get off track but EXTREMELY hard to get back on track.

Michael

Conduct a great deal of research.

Magdalena

Search for schools early and have a variety of schools on your search list. Small schools are better if you want to be more than just a number. Get your AA done before deciding on a major, that helps you discover what you would like to do before ever declaring your major.

Cely

find the college that fits the degree you want

Danielle

College is unlike anything you've ever done before. It's hard, but it's also fun and exciting. There are so many new experiences waiting for you, both academic and recreational. You'll have to learn new study habits and in some cases, seek out the professors in their offices. Limiting your learning to the classroom is not a good idea. Never be afraid to ask for an explanation or spend extra time working after classes to understand something. The dorm life experience is challenging as well. Balancing friends and school is paramount in college, but if you've chosen a school that you feel comfortable in, then it will be easier. Make friends with other students in your class, so you can form study groups and hang out at the same time. Never be afraid to say no to friends when you need to study. If they care about you, they will understand and encourage your commitment. College is fun and social, but it's also extremely important to your future. Don't let friends or even family stop you from reaching your goals in life, and getting the degree you want. Remember, it's your future!

Robert

Make sure the college has all that the student needs to be able to be successful, like internet access, space needed, cafes, sports facility, etc. Also, make sure the college is close to where you live (within 100 miles of the parents' house).

Rhonda

To receive the most benefit from any college experience a prospective student must be somewhat certain that college is the journey of their choice and not the fulfillment of their parents' dream. When deciding which college to attend the student and parent must take into consideration the cost of tuition, boarding, books, extra-curricular fees, and atmosphere. Once a student narrows the choices down, students and parents should attend campus tours in order to determine if the atmosphere of the campus is suitable to their individual cultural experiences and comfort level. After choosing a suitable college I recommend that the student and parent seek out various avenues available on campus to increase the opportunity for academic, physical, spiritual, and financial success. College affords individuals an opportunity to reach for dreams. It is the choice of the individual to take advantage of that opportunity.

Eryn

I would definitely suggest that students and parents research the schools in order to find the one that best fits the student's needs. This includes, housing, majors offered, and accessability of the student services. As for the college experience, I would have to say the student should appreciate the people and all their efforts to help one another. Have a positive attitude when things get rough. Keep your head up, and keep working hard even if you feel overwhelmed because its worth it in the end. When you need help, there is always someone there for you. All students struggle even when they work hard, so dont feel like you're alone when things get hard. College is not about memorizing the information, you have to listen and learn. Things are always a lot easier when you start to enjoy learning new things. It is important to appreciate the work you put into school, and appreciate the teachers for providing challenges.

Tracey

To parents or students it is in your best interest to find the appropriate college for you. The college that will be most comforting, safe and reliable when you are in need of guidance. To the student, know what you are going to persue before entering into a degree and changing numerous of times by the time you change the degree and go back to basics you can already have one degree. So with this in mind go for your dreams and reach them.

Gregg

The best thing anyone can do is ask questions. When you tour a campus that you might be interested in ask questions to anyone and everyone. Students are the most helpful because they have been in your shoes already. They will tell you how professors are and the school in general. If you already know what you want to study, do not bother talking to a regular academic advisor, go ahead and speak with the person that will be your major advisor. They are the people who actually know what classes you need to be taking your first two years. Trust me, that piece of advice could save you some money. While you are in college, enjoy every minute of it, but do not forget why you are there. Your degree needs to come first, even if it means missing out on the biggest party of the year. There will be plenty of parties, but if you flunk out you won't be able to enjoy them. Be involved in as much as you can while still getting your work done. No matter what happens, make sure you have fun because you are only in college once.

Shacondra

First, make sure you and your child are mentally and maturally ready for the strugglings and temptations of college life. Then, choose a college that matches your educationally needs and wants and budget.

Joshu

Research the colleges, visit them. Make sure that the college you choose has the program you want, but also other activities. Getting involved is the best way to enjoy college. Many businesses want to see the different experiences you have obtained, and by joining an organization, fraternity/sorority, sports team, or any other extra-curricular activities, you gain those experiences. Make sure that the college of your choice also agrees with your views on the enivornment, that they take steps to be green friendly. Make sure the college is involved with the surrounding communities, and that the alumni are still involved with the school. The one thing that made me decide to go to the college I attend, was that I felt I could make a difference; not only at the university, but in the community as well. Make sure the college provides counseling, and tutoring, as well as career and job services. All of these things are stuff I wish I knew to look for. I got lucky that my school was just right for me, and I hope every student gets that opportunity to find the school for them!!!

Stephanie

You must know the keys to your academic success to be able to cipher where you should go. If you like personal relationships and knowing your instructors then a small school is much better for you, but if you do not mind possibly getting lost in the people then a large school is a good option. The right college is only right when you know all the resources that campus has to offer you so do your research thoroughly on co-curricular programs to assist in your College career.

Jessica

Do not just consider what financial aid is available at the school or the location of the school. Consider long and hard about what your options are career-wise and base your decision on how this school rates in those professions and the research credentials of the professors. Once you get to college, get out and join several organizations and participate in as many activities as possible. It is great to live on campus so that you have the ease of interacting with several different types of people. Further, go to all of the school functions. Meeting people opens doors to new opportunities and new friendships that can help you not only in college but also in life.

Tomie

Before looking for a college to attend, think about what you want out of your college experience. Make a list of things that are important to you and then start looking at schools to see what fits, also be willing to revise your list as you see what college is really like. Once you start college, try to get involved in some social groups or clubs, they will help you make connections and friends. Keep in mind, however, that you are in college primarily to learn, so don't get involved in so many things that you don't have time to study for or go to class.

Jennifer

Both parents and students should visit prospective colleges together so that students can get a general feel for the campus, and parents can preview what college life may be like for their child. A college should be selected based upon a variety of factors, including location, availability of majors, academic standards, cost, and overall comfort. All of these factors should be explored before a decision is reached. Once a college has been selected, students need to be proactive in their approach to college life. Students should not be afraid to ask for assistance in matters such as choosing a major, enrolling in classes, on-campus housing, and both mental and physical health. Though the prospect of making new friends may be daunting, students should partcipate in dorm and campus activities in order to familiarize themselves with the school and fellow classmates. Students should explore the possibility of joining a club in order to become further involved. If a student is struggling academically, study groups or tutoring should be considered. Students should not be afraid to call home or ask their parents for help. Complete independence is a gradual process, which is greatly facilitated by the college experience.

James

I recommend looking at mulitple different colleges and making a decision after you have visited every college you showed interest in.

Holly

The most important factor in considering where to attend college is the comfort of the student. It is important for students to visit prospective colleges, to tour the campus, and to try to spend time speaking with as many students, factulty, staff and administration as possible. Being comfortable on campus and with the students, adminstration and faculty a student will be encountering is essential to the learning process. If a student is comfortable in his or her surroundings, then they are more likely to engage themselves in the classroom and seek help when needed. To make the most out of a college experience, a student should get involved. By getting involved early in the college career, a student has the opportunity to meet and get to know other students, as well as faculty sponsors. It also gives students an opportunity to get to know the campus and learn about the opportunities the college has to offer. Getting involved in student organizations is also a good way to be linked with alumni in the area who may be able to help a student find a job, either while taking classes or following graduation.

Lauren

Find a school that you want to be at and get involved. It is fun to be involved and live the college lifestyle.

William

I suggest you decide what it is you want to do and go to the best school you can, that specializes in that area of study.