Toccoa Falls College Top Questions

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

Amanda

In this situation i would tell myself, although college has it's challenges you can do anything you set your mind to. I was the kid who was overstressed the majority of my senior year, but i would also tell myself time management is key for sucess in college wherever it is attended. I honnestly would show myself just like work is required for sucess, breaks and fun is required as well. College has changed me for the better, yes in College homework must be done, papers must be written, etc. There is a beauty only found on a college campus that makes any adolescent's heart pump for the righteous things!

stephen

In high school, I believed my social life to be the most important thing and let my classes, grades, sports, and clubs fall to the wayside. Believeing my social life was everything, I fell into some hard drugs in order to fit in with the most popular kids. I quickly became addicted. It took years, through being expelled, hitting rock bottom, and wasting precious time, before I got clean. If I could give myself some advice, it would be to keep everything in perspective. To chase what matters, and to find myself. I would tell myself that unless I know who I am, I could fall for anything people wanted me to be. Don't lose yourself in a fleeting moment, but rather focus on the future and discover the things that are worth going after. Some things lose luster after time, but others gain beauty as time goes on. There is a difference between what you want and what you need, and most of the time in the moment its difficult to see, so trust the advice of your elders wisdom and pay attention in your class because knowledge has value. And lastly, time is never worth wasting.

Amalea

Now that I have been in college, I realize that there are so many things I wish I would have known as a high school student. If I were to go back to my senior year in high school and talk to myself, I would tell myself to branch out and learn new activities or hobbies. When you know a little bit about various interests and are well-rounded, you can relate to more people and see better from their perspective. This helps when you are getting to know others and finding common ground with future friends. Relationships are key to a healthy and worthwhile college experience.

Rebekah

It's your big day! You're saying goodbye to your parents and heading off to college orientation! You're excited and, even though you wouldn't like to admit it, a little scared to confront this great expanse of the unknown, called college, stretching out over the next four years of your life. Okay, maybe not just a little scared, a lot scared. No one else seems to be worried. All your fellow freshman seem to have it all together. They're friendly and outgoing. They know what they want to major in, and even what they want to do after graduation...which right now feels like it's light years away! It's a lie. Let me repeat that: you are not the only person on this campus who feels completely unprepared to survive this thing called college. Underneath their friendly smiles, most of your fellow freshman are just as terrified as you are. The upperclassmen don't have it all together, either. College is a journey. You're not supposed to have it all together. So don't stress, put on your confident, friendly smile, and remember you're not the only one who feels this way.

Morgan

If I could go back in time, I would tell myself not to be so pressured into feeling like I have to choose what I'm going to do for the rest of my life so quickly. There is such a huge emphasis on choosing your career right out of high school. That is very intimin\dating, but I can take my time. Go to college, take some general courses, weigh my options, and take my time. Choosing what you're going to do for the rest of your life is a big decision, not something you'll decide overnight. Also, if you change your mind while in college, it's ok. This is the time in your life that you can do that. Concentrate on the classes you have now, look at all that's available to you, and then decide. Even if you choose a career that you figure out later isn't something you want to do, you can go back and change it. It's ok to not have it all together right out of high school.

Haley

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself: Listen well, because this advice will save you a lot of headaches and stress. Don't stop applying for scholarships and grants just because you won one scholarchip already. It only gets harder from here on in, and you'll need all the money for college you can get. Don't give up, and don't back down form any hard challenges. Just because something seems hard and seems like a waste of time, do it anyway, because it will help you greatly. When you get to college, just because you can choose weather or not to attend your classes, doesn't mean that you should ditch any of them unless you're really sick. Always be there, don't skip out, and do your very best in all of them. Lastly, study, study, study. Just because things were easy for you all through high school doesn't mean they will be in college. Spending some time studying will save your grade and reduse the stress put on you durings tests. Listen to me, and you'll do great.

Mallory

I would tell myself to again focus on finding true friends. That having friends is very important and finding that sense of community and where you belong. To cherish those friends and never take them for granite. I would tell myself to be excited about discovering who you are, because it is a fun journey doing so. In that though, once you know who you are be true to it, and don't let people change you. I would tell myself to be patient in finding a relationship, the right one will come. I would also tell myself to focus on your school work. Don't fall behind, always stay ahead, even if it means skipping something fun. I would tell myself to hold on to the laughs, hugs, and memories you make because they're ones you'll carry with you for a life time. I would tell myself to be honest and and to be strong. Lastly I would tell myself to find a church family, because there is a lot of great oppertunities there.

Kelsey

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would first tell myself to stop rushing through the days. I would tell myself to slow down and actually take the time to remember all the things I am being taught. I would tell myself to enjoy the last days as a high school senior, because college is a whole new world. I would tell myself to save notes from high school, because I could use them in future college classes. I would tell myself to enjoy the minimum homework given my some teachers, and I would encourage myself to relax more in the afternoons. Lastly, I would tell myself to enjoy the last summer before college begins in the Fall, because College is a whole new, fun, exciting and different world!

Jennifer

I would have told myself to start college and take core classes, instead of waiting two years to go to college.

Heather

I would make sure I know that I will get homesick no matter how many people I befriend, but it isn't the end of the world and I will see my family again. I would have told myself that it is much more difficult than high school and I should be prepared for late nights and confusing homework questions. Also, to ask for help and not be afraid to ask for help with school work because asking for help is the smartest thing one can do to understand his or her school work and do well. Lastly, I would tell myself to make good friends and pay attention to my professors in and out of class; one never knows how much he or she could learn if he or she listens well and watches carefully.

willie

I have been receiving a quality education up to this point. I am a non-traditional student so I was looking for a strong spiritual and strong academic base. I am satisfied with that up to this point. There is an excellent student to professor ratio. Also the school is interested in providing for the whole person here. The fact that most classes begin with prayer is also a plus. There is a genuine feeling of Christianity as well. These people are believers. Overall this is an excellent college!

Ric

I have gotten a much clearer understanding of who I am as a person and what my life's purpose is. I believe God directed me to Toccoa Falls College, and my experience and spiritual growth while here goes well beyond the time spent in class. I am much more confident in my God-given abilities and gifts, and have a clearer understanding of how God desires to use me once I complete my formal education. My love , compassion, and understanding for other people has grown considerably during my time at Toccoa Falls College. I have met people here and formed relationships with them that I believe will be life-long friendships. I know that I am a much better person having been a student at Toccoa Falls College and feel as if I will forever be a member of the Toccoa Falls College family.

OZELIA

Intelligents

Haggeo

In my mind there is a clear distinction between earning a degree and gaining an education. A degree can be earned by simply retaining information before a series of tests. However, an education produces personal growth and betters an individual’s ability to project him or herself throughout life. I began college last year with my mind set on getting a degree and leaving college as soon as possible. When I witnessed the knowledge (and not just degrees) available at the education institution I completely changed my expectations. I have taken some social and humanity courses that have greatly increased my ability to understand, relate, and care for other individuals and cultures. I believe education (and not a degree) is an excellent method that improves the individual.

Teiarra

College brings to the understanding of life. The steps and levels you have to face before you can reach the type. College teaches you patience and the power of having to follow before one can lead. It also brings you knowledge, not only are you getting a degree to do something in life, you are also learning new techniques to use through life.

Joseph

I have been able to learn more about my faith and what God wants me to do.

Cory

Why are you living your life as though it will always be here? It says in James 4 in the Bible that our life is like a mist and it just goes away without alerting us when. Man live life to the fullest because the relationships you have now will make you and mold you. The decisions you make now will be with you forever because these are the glory days and you will always remember them. Let no opportunity to help a brother or sister out slip out of grasp because you never know when you might need a helping hand. Let everyone know about how much God is a jealous God and wants everything you have because He can prosper it and let life be abundant.

Traci

Dear Traci, This may be intimidating, reading a letter from your future self. Don't worry this isn't like the Christmas Carol. You don't have to worry about two more "ghosts" coming to speak to you. At this point in your life I know there are many scars from your past, present, and soon to be future. I know that your relationship with your dad is hard, which has also effected your self image. I know I should be telling you to study hard (which you should, I am not making light of that fact), however, I want to tell you how beautiful God has made you. When you seek Him first, He will produce in you confidence that will overflow into making the transition from adolescence to adult hood. He loves you more than words can say and He wants to produce in you compassion, faith, love, kindness, humility, passion, gentleness, and freedom. With these characteristics you will succeed not only in college life and pursuing your dreams, but also in your friendships and relationships with others. I leave you with this advice; love and seek God with all of your heart and soul. You, Traci Johnson

Brittany

If I could talk to myself when I was a senior in high school I would encourage myself to not be afraid of plunging into full-time college. Though it is harder than high school, it is not impossible! As for making the transfer into moving away from home to a four-year college, I would advise myself to give it some time before I can expect to settle in. Reliable friends take more than a semester to form, but they will begin to form. I would also tell myself to not panic about my career direction, but instead to give myself room for trial and error, because after all, college is the place to decide what I really want to be doing.

Phaleck

If I had the chance to go back in time and talk to myself as a highschool senior, I would definitely tell myself to study and to make an effort to attain good grades. I was not able to get the HOPE scholarship because my gpa was off by .023. If I knew that this would have stopped me from getting the scholarship, I would have worked harder. I woud also tell myself not to waste money on unnessecary items. Money becomes a very important resource when you become a college student. If I saved the money that I spent, I would have been able to buy mybooks for class and pay off my tuition. This is the advice that I would give myself if I could go back in time.

April

I would remind myself to be careful in my desires to go to a school so far away from home. Make sure you are GOING TO college because you want to and you feel that is the right place for you, not simply as a means to RUN AWAY FROM something. If you go to college with the desire to simply run away from your problems and frustrations at home, then those unresolved feelings and issues will prevent you from developing fully into the person you need to be and enjoying college life to the best of your abilities. Go to college free of baggage from home, if that is at all possible. Then you can begin your college experience without any regrets and fears of repeating the same mistakes and you can continue to develop relationships from back home while you are away at school. No need to unnecessarily burn bridges and shut people out of your life.

Catessa

Knowing what I know about college life and making the transition, I would advise myself to take the ACT more than once before being accepted. Had I taken the ACT more than once i could've landed a better placement. I would also advise for me to stay focus

Brittany

I would definitely tell myself there is so much more to life than anything that happens in highschool- all the drama and trying to be somebody else or more popular- none of that matters. I was a level 10 gymnast and dreamed of doing it in college, but I ended up having to retire early, and it was terrible, but I see now how it has really made me much better and I have different dreams for my life other than a sport. I was given the oppurtunity to play soccer at a much smaller school, with no scholarship, but even with that I have learned so much. So I would also tell myself, if my plan does not work out, I know something better is in store for me, though it may be really hard time at first. You go through chapters in your life, and you have to give stuff up- that is just life! The real life is HARD! Worrying about money, jobs, relationships, food, etc.- enjoy living at home and not having many responsibilities while it lasts, because it will never be the same after you graduate high school! Don't worry- life goes on!

Alison

"College is absolutely one of the most fun, freeing, challenging, and dynamic times in your life. Soak up the challenges, academically and personally, as you begin questioning the beliefs, values, and ideals which you have previously felt to be foundational to your life. As you question these things, stay strong to that which truly matters to you, but also feel free to compromise occasionally. Stay strong academically, but feel free to compromise your time and your regimented planner for an occasional trip to Sonic, Wal-Mart, or Taco Bell. These times are when true relationships are formed through crazy, memorable moments. Stay strong morally, but feel free to compromise by not being so rigidly focused on your beliefs that you cannot be molded and changed by those who differ from you. Those who are different from you may only strengthen your former beliefs; others may help you develop and improve. Yes, obtaining and maintaining strong academics is important, but your memories with your friends are what will truly last when your transcript does not. Stay up until 2 or 3 in the morning laughing or crying, even if you have an 8:00 exam in a few hours.

Lindsey

Make a lot of friends, but choose them carefully. A reputation takes a lifetime to build and about five minutes to destroy. Your professors know so much more than you do, so take advantage of that. Become friends with them and learn from them. It's important to work hard in school, but save some time to have fun and learn who you are. You have all the time in the world to date and get married, if that is what you choose. Don't let it get in the way of succeeding academically now. Learning to get along with your roommate is a valuable life skill that you will need forever. If you are not sure what you want out of life, try everything until you figure out what you like doing.

Laura

I would tell my self to get ready for change. I would also say to go out of my comfort zone.

Laura

There is something unique in the soul of each student, something that no one else can tell them about themselves. Listen to it. There is some subject that drives every student, a subject in which you flourish and can't get enough of. Choose this major. There is a specific atmosphere for every student, one that nurtures and gives life. Find your home. When choosing the college for you, there are certain aspects that are important, such as the ability to prepare you for a career. For me, I knew that pleasing God with my life was the most important factor, so I prayed hard in order to choose the school where God wanted me. But when it comes to the particular details of a school, it's okay to go by instinct. Don't feel silly for listing among the pros or cons of a school, "the atmosphere". It may be vague, but feeling at home and feeling nourished is important if you want to thrive. Choosing a major simply because you have fun with the subject is perfectly alright. Nothing will motivate you more in school than classes that you can't get enough of.

Brittany

Study a little every day. Don't wait til the day before a paper is due to start working on it. Invest ALOT of time into friendships. Talk to your professors outside of class. Get involved with the campus community. Rely on Christ for everything. Pray.

Joshua

Make sure to visit the schools tha tthe student is interested in, that way they can get a feel for the school and get a layout of the land. It will also allow them to talk with some financial aid representatives to see about the money situation for the particular school. For the students, to make the most out of the college experience, they need to try new things, get involved, and be active. A good student is one who gets their work done, but they should also have a well develpoed social life, otherwise they will get burnt out and slowly break down. Some younger students may not be allowed to have vehicles, however there are plenty of older students who will be able to take a few people into town. The student should also explore the town and get to know the area as well while visiting the school, just to see what the community is like.

Whitney

Don't focus solely on what you're looking for educationally. Make sure the social aspect is what you're looking for also, because that will affect your grades. Whether it's too much socializing or too little, find what's right for you and let that effect your school choice. Also, if you're a first year college student, don't be in a rush to go straight to a four year university, especially if it's out-of-state, because you may spend money you needn't not spend yet. Use your community college wisely! Lastly, don't let academics bog you down. Stressing too much over them will make your experience at school unenjoyable. Take your time if you need to. Don't waste a moment.

Brooke

My best advice for a parent or student that is looking for the right college would be to take your time looking at each college. Even if you are unsure of your major, narrow down what you would possibly like to study at that college and then narrow down your choices from there. Its best to pick an environment that suits you the best and definately visit the college. One important thing is to go where you know you will be happy WHILE you do your work. Dont just follow your friends but be independent and have fun!

Crystal

I would say to choose the college that best fits the requirements for the career intended and a college that is affordable for the family. Also, a college where the student will feel comfortable, almost at home, and where the student can have some activities for when there is free time.

Michael

College is all about moderation, it is the best time of my life but I want to stay there and have a successful life when i get out. Students should go to schools that fit their personality, and offer opportunities in the areas they are interested in.

Christina

If I were to give advice to parents or students about finding the right college and making the most of hte college experience, I would tell them that to make sure that they have realistic expectations about it. Students, there are going to be hard times, financially, emotionally, and mentally. There are going to be times when you will want to turn back, give up, and go home. Parents, there are going to be times when you will question whether or not it was the right choice, or if you should go through with it. My advice to you would be to question, but do not worry or doubt. There is a reason that this choice was made, and at the end of it all, you will be grateful. You will be a stronger person because of it, and you just have to believe that. Having this mindset of realistic expectations will allow you to prepare for upcoming possible problems, and will help you to remain confident while you are being stretched.

Paj

I believe it is important for students to have an idea of what they want to pursue and to research the program that colleges offer in their field. Parents should ask about the professors who will be teaching their students to see if they have both adequate education and real life experiences that gives themcredibility. Students should also check that colleges are accredited. It is important to check if the college offers small enough classes where students will be able to interact freely with the professor and with their peers. This way, students can more easily approach the professors about anything they need help with and create lasting and real relationships with others. College tuition should be compared to see whether or not it's worth investing in education at particular schools. Parents should also make sure that the college adminstration care about the safety of their students. It is important that administrators care enough about students to enforce rules and regulations that will keep students out of harms way. It is also essential to look into the community of the school. A visit before hand can provide a preview of what type of community the school offers.

Tiffany

When looking for a college, I suggest that the students/parents do not just look at the setting of where the school is. When I chose my first college, I didn't look at the academic program or the social life or the chapel life. I saw the campus and loved the beauty of where it was at. With in the first week I was at that school, I knew that it was not for me. I stayed for the first semester then I transferred to TFC. During the transfer process, I researched TFC. I found out what their spiritual/ chapel life looked like on campus. I even looked about the social life and their academic program for my major. I knew that TFC is where I wanted to attend based on my wants in those areas. I never visited the school until I arrived for Spring Semester 2008. I don't advise you to not visit the school. Visiting will help you get a feel of the school, but I do suggest that you look at more than the setting. I hope you enjoy selecting your college, and I hope that you choose the right one for yourself.

Dean

When entering into college, one of the most helpful things that you can do is going to a school that fits you. I would discourage people from going to a college just because people that they know are going there, because that school may not fit with your ideas of what you want to get out of college. Choosing a college that has a lot of options in areas you are interested in is also very important, because many students do not stay with the program that they start with, so acting as if you are entering for multiple programs is important. Priorities and goals can change, so a flexible university is important. I would encourage people to live on campus, as I have seen that once people move off campus at smaller schools, you can become isolated from the school and lose school spirit, treating school more like a job than a place to learn and interact with peers. Many people call college the best 4 years of your life, and choosing the college plays a big role in making it that way.

Rebekah

Searching all the options out there is so important. Students need to compare and research quite a few colleges before deciding where they want to go. That way, they understand all of their options. Also, the college experience is in the hands of each individual student. College is what YOU make of it. It can either be a horrible experience where one is in his/her room studying all the time, or it can be a fun experience of both making friends and staying strong academically. It is crucial to pick the right college to attend. In order for that to happen, the student must know what he/she wants and be willing to search until he/she finds it. College has been and will continue to be an awesome experience for me, and I want every person to have a positive and life-changing experience like I did.

Laurie

Realize what college is and think about what you want from your college experience before you make your final decision about college. College is not high school all over again; there is more freedom and more choices so when you are choosing a college, think about if it is a place you want to have that freedom. If the campus scares you or bores you, that may not be the best place to experience new freedom. Thinking about what you want from your college experience is also important when considering your options. What are you most looking forward to in college: Sports? Academics? Social life? Religion? Living on your own? Find your top priorities for a campus and compare that list to what the campus has to offer and what other students have heard about the campus. Remember that college is not just a school; it is a place you will be living at and associating yourself with for a while, therefore don?t let other people talk you into a decision or rush you. Take time, visit the campus, talk to current students or alumni, and consider your options carefully.

Miranda

I would first advise students to apply to a few colleges, instead of just applying to their dream college. It is wise to keep one's options open and actually visit each of these colleges. By going to the college or university, experiencing the culture, and even sitting in on some classes, one gains the truest perspective of the institution. Another way to understand the life of the students on the campus is to actually talk with them. Some colleges offer a student preview weekend in which high school students can actually stay in the dorms and get to know other students and go to classes with them. I highly recommend attending these becuase by getting to know the students that attend the institution, one can get an understanding of the student life on the campus. By finding as much information as possible about each college one can certianly make a confident choice. The student may be surprised to find that one of his other choices surpasses his initial perference. College is a big chapter in a teenager's life that needs to be approached with as much knowledge as possible in order to make it a great, memorable experience.

Aurora

My advice is that the student and their parents research the schools and its values, in order to make a decision that will profit the goals and dreams of both parties.

Heidi

To make the most of your college expirience visit the college campus to really see that it is a fit for you, don't go just because that is where you are getting most financial help from. The better fit that you have the better the expirience overall will be. I know that I chose my college on the homey feel that it has and that has made all the difference to my ability to work hard and succeed in my academic pursuit. Make sure you fit there both socially and academically and you will prosper in what you are doing!

Angela

Advice on Advice: Learning from those who have gone through similar experiences will always yield invaluable results. Take the time to hear people out; it is not only beneficial for you, but uplifting for those of whom you ask. Advice for STUDENTS! 1. Start the search in advance to give yourself enough time to make decisions when you are stress-free. 2. Be patient. 3. Only pursue what you are passionate about. 4. Make a list of things that are most important to you in life and pursue those in a college. 5. Take ownership of your search?do research yourself, invest your time, and pursue things wholeheartedly. You will reap incredible satisfaction when you are through. Advice for PARENTS! 1. Speak into the lives of your children about who they are and what they are passionate about. 2. Be authentic about your own experiences. 3. Let your children engage in discovery for themselves. Pray...there's incredible freedom in entrusting your life to the God who created the universe. He so carefully orchestrated the way this world functions and has its being; he will most certainly orchestrate the plan of your life in ways you've never dreamed of.

Ronald

I would tell the parents or students that it is important to pick the right college because if you do not then you will be miserable. It has been such a blessing being at a place where I feel comforatable. It allows me to focus on my studies and to enjoy my time with friends. I think it is important to make the most of your college experience too, but realize that you are here to learn and to receive an education. If you waste your time partying and having fun then you will miss out the reason you are at college. Realize, however, that you will make friends who will be friends for the rest of your life so do not just hole yourself up in your room to do homework. It is about balance. Your priority should be your school work but also realize that this is a once in a lifetime opprotunity. Don't waste it!

Amy

I would firstly tell them not to judge schools by mere appearances. Just because a school has a lot of money does not mean that this is the school for them. Simply having a prettier building will not give you a better education. Secondly, do not visit schools during campus previews, as this is when schools promote themselves the most. It can lead to a false depiction of the school, and your decision might be based on mere hype. Make logical decisions based on what you want to get out of a solid education and what you plan to do later in life. Sure, have fun in college, and make friends, but that will not ultimately allow you reach your goal as a professional in your field of study later on. Incorporate balance and discipline into your daily schedule at school. Come into college with a strong sense of belonging, self-awareness, personal convictions, and thirst for knowledge and adventure. Only then will you be able to take advantage of this new college environment, all the while expanding your horizons and mind. Look ahead with anticipation learn from the past, while working hard in the present.

Erica

Encourage the upcoming college student to discover what her/she wants in life. Promote and explore the desires and talents of the student and then match a college with the student?s desires instead of limiting colleges due to geographical or parental restrictions. This way the student is pursuing what he/she enjoys and is confident with the next for years of their education.

Jonathan

I would advise parents/students to focus on finding a school that maintains a good balance between social life and academic life. Thus, first observe what the faculty is like. Is the library up-to-date? Sit in on some classes and note the general atmosphere and setting of the campus. Also take into consideration whether the students are (as a corporate group) academically focused. And secondly, examine the social life on campus. Is it healthy (e.g. sports, exercise, the arts, group outings, honorable relationships) or unhealthy (e.g. excess of alchohol/drugs, excess emotions, excess pop-culture). Observe the students on campus, and ask yourself if those relationships are respectable and healthy. Furthermore, figure out whether the campus' social life dominates or whether it is held in balance with academic life. In the end, to determine the right college for yourself/your child means integrating many, many factors for one final decision. My conclusion is that a primary factor in choosing the perfect college is finding one which emphasizes a healthy balance between social/campus life and academia.

Stephen

My advice to you parents who are embarking upon the journey of locating the proper school that will adequately prepare your son or daughter for a lifelong career begins with one simple word, research. If you do your research diligently and couple it with some good old fashioned patience , you are sure to be successful. As you may already know there are a host of resources on the internet that can facilitate your research. Avail yourselves of every piece of pertinent information you can find without getting bogged down with the non-essentials. Of course, you will want to have both casual and formal conversations with your son or daughter as to what their goals, likes, dislikes, needs, and preferences are. Try to cover as many bases as possible. Although financing is the first thing that comes to mind with many parents, don't let that be the ruling factor initially. You may be surprised at what resources you find to help in this area. Keep all your information neatly organized as you move through the process. Remember to diligently research, be open minded, patient, conversant with your son or daughter, and hopeful that the perfect match will be found.

Britian

Students need to find the right school to suit their needs, and best educate them in their career field in life. Parents should help their kids find a school that is affordable so their student won't have a lot of debt when they graduate. The parents and student need to find a college without many bad temptations, so the student can stay focused on school and graduate with a good GPA and a lot of knowledge in their field.

Mary

I would highly recommend that parents and/or students first look closely at any and all opportunities to get an inside peek of the college. Many schools offer the opportunity to preview the campus before attending. This will give the prospective student the opportunity to get a feel for the college environment. Not only this, but it also gives the opportunity for questions and concerns to be answered. How thoroughly the school answers these questions is a good indicator of the investement the staff and administration are willing to make in their students. I would also encourage a prospective student to look closely at the academics offered. I have watched as many students have entered their college education uncertain of what opportunities lie ahead for them. Not only this, but they are just beginning (within their Freshman year) to experience some freedoms they have not yet known. As they do this, they are discovering "who they are" and beginning to find outlets to express this. I would encourage any serious college student to wisely declare their major; assurring that it is a field that they will truly thrive in.