Towson University Top Questions

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

Erin

First, I would tell myself what I actually want to do with a career and not waste my time in a comunity college trying to figure it out. I would also tell myself that it is not as hard as you think, your high school teachers make it seem hard but it actually isn't. You get to study your subject you want and if it is interesting to you the A's will come easily. I would also tell myself to learn not to procrasinate. That is the worst part, you can not write a 25 page paper the night before you will be too tired to concentrate in classes the next day.

Amber

Don't start college until you know exactly what you want your major to be. Find out what classes you need on your own for that major because the academic advisors will put you in a bunch of classes you do not need. Don't take what the academic advisors tell you too because they give you classes that do not even pertain to your degree. Also know if you need help with finding out anything academically the advisors will take over 3 hours to see you and will not listen to what you say, all they will talk to you about is your math classes even when you have finished all the maths you need for your major. Lastly don't get down when they tell you they can't help you because they really don't know what is requried and most of what they say will just set you behind a semester or even a full year of school.

Ashlei

While walking across the stage during my high school graduation, I realized that the twelve years of homework, waking up early and the exhausting eight hours of school was a very rewarding experience. I was on my way to Towson University. College is different from high school in many ways. As a senior in high school, while I prepared for the Scholastic Aptitude Test and college admission essays, there are a couple of things I wish I would have done in order to prepare myself for college. I definitely would have participated in more sports while in high school, considering that sports teach one discipline and how to work well with others. Also, participating in college athletics would have been easier with prior experience. As a senior, learning basic study habits would have benefitted in college. The studying required for college courses is much more tedious and complex than for high school courses. As a senior, taking advantage of advanced placement (AP) courses would have better prepared me for college level courses. Participating in clubs as a high school student would have enriched my communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills, all of which are necessary in a diverse college community.

Gareceshia

As a senior then,I would give myself ( Gareceshia) advice about the important role that scholarships play on your transition to college. I cannot stress enough how exspensive earnng a degree is. The idea that scholarships exist has helped with the very existence of how middle class students are able to afford and be able to attend a university where they can pursue a career with a higher level of education. Applying for scholorships is the key to also adjusting to college life, because some schools do not offer students a full ride to there university and may not offer enough money to assist with the cost of tuition, or university fees, housing, or even the small neccessities as books. With the aid of additional scholorships there is less tension within a student, and they are not as worried as to how they are going to pay the remaining balance on there billing account. Scholorships also offer the chance for students to express them selves or deliver there story to websites and sponsors about there current sitiuation and there need for assistance financially. Not everyone is awarded the same scholorship but anyone can be eligible for them.

Jennifer

If I had the opportunity to go back in time, I would encourage myself to get out of the habit of procrastinating and underestimating teachers. In high school, I was able to procrastinate and get away with it. For example, if I had an exam in economics on a Monday, I would hang out all weekend long and then study that Sunday night and be able to get an excellent grade on the exam. However, when I started college I did the same thing for a math exam and I didn?t do too well. So now when I know an exam is coming up I study at least a week or two in advance and it definitely pays off. Also in high school I used to always underestimate my teachers. For instance, once in a while in my forensics class, I would make formatting mistakes in my lab report, yet my teacher simply looked over it and graded the more important things like stating my purpose, results, and other important aspects of the experiment. Then again, when college professors see those simple mistakes made, they will make major reductions to your grade. Also, do not always expect extra credit.

Stacey

The first thing I would tell myself is how amazing it felt to be accepted to the college of my choice. Applications for colleges are overwhelming and nobody should try to sum up their existence in a 500-word essay - you are more than that. The first thing I would tell myself is how amazing it felt to be accepted to the college of my choice. Applications for colleges are overwhelming and nobody should try to sum up their existence in a 500-word essay - you are more than that. The next thing would have to be the adjustment to class size! Some professors not knowing of your existence, time management skills are pushed to the maximum and insane amounts of work. You have to find, reach and fight for your goals. There is way less drama and a lot more work. Last thing I would tell myself is that wherever you go, college is what you make of it. That's been true for me, and it's true for my friends, work hard and you will succeed!

Nicholas

Choose your roommates wisely. While it's fun meeting new people and taking a chance on living with new people, meet them before hand because it could make your first year a living hell. Also, even though money is always tight, take more time to do fun things around the city rather than working every single weekend night. It'll be worth it in the long run.

Rebekah

Choose wise when it comes to colleges. Follow your heart on what YOU want to do, not what your parents want you to do. It is okay to switch colleges if you find a better way of fulfilling your college career. Listen to advice given by other adults and not just your parents. Be open to more future career options, and if you need to take different paths in order to get where you eventually want to be in your life. Some people take one direct path to their dream career, and others take a few different paths, but you can still achieve your dream career if you are not enjoying the few other careers you tried. Sometimes it takes trial and error to figure out where you are needed in your life. whether or not you like the idea at first, go for it anyways, be open minded about everything because you never know where life might take you, and you will not know if you like something until you actually try it. Work hard. College is definitely way different than high school. But college changes your life and makes you who you will become.

Erin

My first piece of advice to myself would be that even though all those college clubs, activity groups, and professional associations sound great and you positively can?t wait to get started, don?t try to do them all at once. A few extracurricular activities makes college fun, but suddenly enrolling in five of them as a freshman is a little too overenthusiastic and akin to biting off way more than can be chewed. Too much outside involvement and volunteering will add unneeded stress to the college experience and make it difficult to complete coursework. Just start small with one or two, and then gradually add others on instead of trying to do it all at once. The second piece of advice would be that though college is pretty close, and going home every other weekend is great at the beginning to help with the transition to college, after the first semester or so hauling all the homework and books and art supplies home stops seeming like heading to a little personal oasis complete with free laundry facilities and just gets to be a pain. Especially when more of that pile of homework would get done at school.

Molly

If I could go back in time and talk to myself has a senior and give myself advice about all that I have learned in these past two years out of high school. I would tell myself to listen to my heart on where I want to go after high school. Don't assume that one positive factor of a school could make up for multiple other factors that the school doesn't have. It's important to pick the school that offers you everything you want and more. The school that gives you potential to grow and learn. I would tell myself not to second guess any of my decisions or to base any of my decisions of others and to just go with my gut. But I would also tell myself not to worry, that in the end I end up where i'm supposed to be and it all works out.

Jennifer

Knowing what I know now about college life and making the transition, I could really help myself if I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior. I was always the type of person that needed to learn things on my own. Before going to college, my parents kept informing me that I would have alot of free time and be on my own to handle my schoolwork obligations. I didn't feel that this would be any kind of a problem. When I started my Freshman semester this year, I took advantage of this free time, and my grades began to suffer as a result of my misuse of time. When I reached mid-semester, I finally realized what I was doing to myself and I decided that from that point foward I needed to become very serious about my time management and priorities. I had a successful semester and finished working very hard for it. I learned that I could have made things much easier for myself had I listened in my high school senior year. One good result was that I have learned my lesson for going foward with college.

Marissa

Dear High School Marissa, You're probably listening to all of you high school counselors tell you how important it is to get good grades and be active in extracurricular activities in high school. I also know that you're not listening to them. If anything you should study very hard for your SAT's to be placed in good classes your first year of college. Believe me, because when you get to be a sophmore and junior in college your going to regret having to take placement tests and getting into review classes as a freshman for no credits. It's bad when you're in those classes not because thats what academic level you're at but you didn't do well on one test. So the main advice I give to you is to not take college lightly. It's a serious matter and is very challenging. But with some effort I know you can do it. Sincerly, College Marissa

Laura

I would tell myself that college is hard work and i dont think even high school can prepare you for it. The emotional and physical transition is something that everyone will react to differently, yet the same. Going away to school or staying home, we're all growing up and need to make decisions for ourselves. The effort you put into work at college, is exactly what you will get out of it. No one will be there chasing you to get assignments in on time or a school bell to make sure your at class on time. College life gives you a sense of adulthood and what the real world is like. Maturity and responsibility aren't neccesarily taught at college, but attained. High school is only a stepping stone to a greater future.

Charleen

I would love to go back and talk to Charleen while she was a senior in High School. There are many things I would emphasize. These are the most important ones: first, and most importantly concentrate on obtaining the highest grades possible so it could directly affect raising her GPA. Secondly, prepare like if there was no tomorrow for the SAT/ACT. This serves as a measurement for so many things post- high schoool and will affect placement and colleges she would like to attend. other crucial factors include getting to know your advisors/ counselors in high school as they have a wealth of information on so many subjects. They also may serve as references for applications to schools or even employment opportunities. Last but not least, I'd advise Charleen to help her parents as much as she can economically while attending college. I'd make her take a close look at the cost of education and the sacrifices her parents have been making to ensure all three of their children attend college. Grants, scholarships and oter means to help. All in all, Charleen and I would have a long and serious talk!

Muyiwa

College is not a destination, its a launching pad. It is a place we go to make the crucial decision of which direction we want to launch ourselves toward in the persuit of a fullfilling life. How we choose to contribute to the world we live in is a very important decision and a sacrifice, however can be a sacrifice that we enjoy giving. Choose a path which excites you, which you are driven toward and which gives you a sense of purpose. Make a conscious decision to succeed in all that you do in college, because it is truly a significant investment. Financially it is one of the biggest investments you will make in your life, why waste all that time, effort and money? You are the consumer. You pay for the service of education. Take full advantage and get your money's worth. Make your investment worth-while. I once read that often times the great people we look up to, often had opportunities that put in front of them. What set them apart, is that they siezed it and ran with it. This is an opportunity placed in your hands. Do somthing!

Clara

If I was given the opportunity to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would give myself numerous tips on how to better prepare for the college experience. I would first and foremost encourage myself to do as many scholarships and try to obtain as much free money as I possibly could. I would also tell myself to apply to more schools so that when it came time to choose which one to attend I would have more options. I would also warn myself not to get too wrapped up in the freedoms of being in college so much so that I neglect any of my work. I would also remind myself the main purpose of college an any other higher institute of leaning is to increase my knowledge so any obstacles in college that do not promote increasing education are irrelevant. Lastly I would remind myself to always work hard and keep my long term goals in sight whenever I felt that I could not achieve. The most important advice I could ultimately give myself would be to work hard and try my absolute best not matter what.

Megan

Take school more seriously. Open your mind to learning, and classes will be easier. Limit the complaints about school. Take it for what it is and it won't be so bad. Be interested in learning about things, you may not agree with it but it will make you a smarter person. Also, do not give into peer presure. Be true to yourself. Do not let anyone make you feel bad or uncomfortable about your lifestyle choices. Get involved more on campus. Make lots of friends, be true to those friends. Just have fun and do want you came here to do.

Eden

It is important to socialize get to know people outside your comfort zone, but also remember that you are in schoo to learn. Learn time management now, there is a time to have fun and also a time to study. Also getting to know your professors will help if you ever need extra help or for future references. Most important do not procrastinate it ight seem like that paper can wait until after the part but doing it the night beore will not help.

caitlin

Dont be so nervous and I would have gone to a community college first. I am in a lot of student loan debt and had a really difficult time finding a job post graduation.

Brittany

If I could go back in time and give myself adivce there would be a lot I would say. I definately starting off at a community college is a great way to get started. By going to a community college you are saving yourself a lot of money on general study classes that you would have to take at any school. Also, it's a really big step to come out of high school and go right off to college when you are used to living at home. This is a nice middle ground. College is a lot of hard work. I think the most beneficial thing you need to know before diving in to college is how to manage your time. It makes a life a lot easier and you won't procrastinate as much if you plan ahead. Also, don't miss class. It's not like high school. Mainly, the best advice I could give is to put your best foot forward and try your hardest, put all of your efforts in to school because it will benefit you in the long run.

Jasmine

I would tell myself to start studying in the summer :-). Actually, I would tell myself to stay grounded and try hard for scholarships. I would also tell myself to know what major I wanted right off the bat. I know they say you have time to figure it out, but that isn't necessarily true, because the classes that you need fill up fast and the classes from one major may not count towards another major. Last, I would tell myself just be prepared to have fun, you will make some bad decisions, but it is all a learning process.

Kathleen

If I was to go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would definitely tell myself not to freak out about college. I will make awesome friends, and excel in classes. As scary as it is to go to a new place, especially with no one else from your graduating class going to the same school, the school you chose was perfect for you, and you will make friends that you will wonder how you ever lived without them. All in all, I would just say cherish the last moments you have in high school, and get excited for the future.

chukwunweike

knowing what i know about my school , i would still choose towson if i were to go back in time. It is highly populated by whites, but that does not intermedate me at all. it has made me so competitive. if i cannot survive a school with 15000 whites, how will i survive the real world with millions of white? i would tell my self to be focused, diligent and hardworking. i will tell myself to study and be excellent in all you do, because it is profitable to work smart and not hard

Joni

Don't take out any student loans! Go to Community College first and then pick ONE four-year institution to attend! When it comes to transferring classes from one school to another for degree credit, check with more than one counselor to make sure the rejected classes really can't be transferred!

Cassandra

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to pay close attention to what you learned in high school because it does effect how much you know in your college years. Also, I would tell myself not too sweat the small stuff and stay calm and focused on whats important. Times get hard when you are in college. It is a lot of work and should be treated like a full time job. What's important is that you just calm down and do what needs to be done. Everything works out fine in the end and the more you stress over something the harder it is to stay focused and come out successful. Finally, it is important to always apply yourself and reach your full potential. Slacking off and putting your schoolwork last on the list of things to do won't make your school experience very enjoyable. In order to have the smoothest ride possible it requires hardwork and dedication. In the end you will come out victorious.

Kelsey

I would tell myself that COMMUNITY COLLEGE IS OK! I went to community college my first two years and hated every minute of it because I saw all of my other friends going to these expensive four year colleges. I didn't realize that there isn't a difference between the two except that I won't be thousands of dollars in debt like they will be upon graduation. Another piece of advice I would give is something that is bascially beaten over students heads in high school...JOIN A CLUB. Find something you want to take part in and just do it. Don't think about it being embarassing. Don't be shy. Just do it. It'll open up new windows of opportunity for friends, internships, FRIENDS, something to do on a thursday night, and it'll look good on a resume. I spent the first six semesters of my college career in solitude becuase I didn't put myself out there and join a club. College will be so much better if you have someone to live it with. Lastly, enjoy. You'll miss this when it's gone. Trust me.

Cierra

I would have developed better study habits because I managed to get by in high school with A's and B's without really studying, and I wrongfully assumed that college was the same. Now I realize that most of my grades are based on exams, which requires A LOT of studying, and I have learned through trial and error that studying really goes a long way. Also, I would have been more involved in school activities and more active in applying for scholarships. Maybe I would have more financial assistance to be able to live on campus if I was more determined and not so intimidated about applying for scholarships. Although I did make these mistakes in the past, I have learned in my year and half being at Towson that I can push myself to do better and work harder and that I have a lot more in me than I ever realized I had before.

Krista

Knowing what I know now about college life, I would definitely tell a high school senior that the key to transition in college is learning how to balance your social life and your academic life. While it is important to have fun, and everyonce an awhile go crazy, you are there to learn and get a higher education. Those students that are able to balance academia and friends are the ones, I feel, have the most fulfilling experiences during their undergraduate career. I would also tell them that not knowing your direction when you are a freshman is okay. Sometimes it takes a year to figure out what subject area you want to pursue, and when it comes down to it, follow your dreams. I graduated in film production, and while the market is highly competitive, I wouldn't have changed my decision for the world. You are paying for your education, so get the one that you, and don't let external pressures push you in a direction that you don't want to go in. Don't be scared to take a risk with your studies, as long as your heart is in it, it is worth it.

Elizabeth

Have fun in undergrad! Choose a major you enjoy or find interesting, but don't work yourself to hard. You can grow up later. Cherish your friends and family, because they will be the ones to pick you up when you fall. Make decisions based on what you want to do. Do NOT factor in anyone elses opinion, but your own (no boyfriends, girlfriends, parents, family, etc) these decisions effect you life. If those people do mean a lot to you and vice versa they will always be there for you no matter what. Graduate school is no joke so make sure you are ready for that comitment. Be careful who you choose for a roomate, just because you are good friends doesn't mean you can live together. Stop and smell the roses :)

Kimberly

If I could go back in time and give my high school self advice I would definitely take the opportunity! I think the most important thing that I would want myself to know would be to make sure to get out and meet new people. It is very important when transitioning from High School to College to step out of your comfort zone and do things you never thought you would do. College is a very special time in your life where you get to meet new people from different places, experience new things, and learn a lot about yourself. I somewhat let my first year of college pass me by, and I would want to tell myself not to let that happen. When someone asks you to go do something, do it. Even if you have reservations about not knowing anyone or being nervous, just do it. College is a great place to meet new people and you can't do that unless you make yourself available.

Sherrell

The most important thing I would tell myself is to be myself. Do not go and follow behind others because I will be alone. I will meet new people and work finew with them. Being in the shadow of another person is not a way to live. I would also tell myself to really look at all of the opportunities that I can acqurie because of how special I am. Never take no for an answer and always thank the people who help you on the way. You will never know what might happen to them and if you will get the chance to thank them.

Alyssa

Knowing what I know now compared to what I knew coming out of high school, I would definitely have to tell myself to work harder. In my first couple years of college, I did not focus on my school work as much as I should have and my grades suffered for it. I had made it through high school doing very little homework and still succeeded and graduated with a pretty decent GPA. When I got to college and homework was no longer mandatory, I chose not to do it and by the time tests were to come around I would be lost and had wished I had kept up with the reading and done exercises assigned but not checked by professors. Because I learned this lesson the hard way, I am working harder than ever to get my GPA higher and to ensure that I will graduate just a year behind schedule.

Gloria

You are going to meet some of the most fantastic people and ideas that will forever change the way you see life. Many of these people are already dead, but they are alive and wonderful in your textbooks waiting to meet you and spend some quiet hours telling you of fascinating things in this world. Some of your richest experiences will be when you are alone, with a book, getting ready for a paper and find yourself mentally chewing on such a great concept that you see yourself changing by the end of your paper. In order for you to gain the most from your college experience you will have to stick to one rule only: Plan it. If you fail to plan and you will plan to fail. Plan everything starting before each semester begins. Plan what hours you will study what subjects, where you will study them, plan when you will go to bed, when you will wash your laundry, and when you will go shopping. Make copies of your plan and put them in places that you will regularly see. Write your major goals. Your goals are, after all, what you are going to college for.

Kristin

I would give myself advice as follows: 1. Enjoy college for all that it has and all that it offers. 2. Plan your schedule and your schoolwork accordingly, so that you won't stress yourself out. 3. If you need help, ask for it. Don't be ashamed to ask.

Jermaine

Do not wait to go to college, go NOW! Apply EVERYWHERE and above all else, STAY AWAY FROM POP-TARTS!!!

Hyon

Looking for a place that is not too big or too small is perfect. Do not worry about SAT's too much because it does not matter as much as the GPA. Do not get stressed out too much because you will enjoy yourself in any college.

Lilia

Live for the moment. Don't do anything you don't want to do. Be yourself- the friends you make will like you for who you are, the ones who don't don't matter. :)

Angie

If I were to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, the most important thing I would tell myself is to stay focused and stay on top of my studies. I cannot stress enough how important it is to have a strong academic performance as well as a social life for balance. In order to get where one wants to be, there has to be a lot of effort put in and a lot of hard work. I would tell myself that college is going to be very different from high school (coursework wise) and that there is no room for procrastination.

Tiffany

If you do it well the first time, you don't have to do it again. Make it count.

Thomas

I would tell myself that in college it's totally okay to be who you are and that there aren't any excuses not to be. I would encourage myself to start opening up and not feel like I was in a shell.

Jacqueline

Undergraduate colleges offer many different things. But the biggest thing is networking and making connections. It really doesn't matter where you go whether it is a state school or a prestigious school, it is all about what you get out of it. College is not about making good grades, or making life long friends, it is about exposing yourself to a bigger world to connect to more people. Even in college you are still trying to understand yourself. Use college, the classes and faculty, as an anchor to pull you in to find out who you are. Without that stability in yourself, all the good grades won't get you anywhere until you know yourself. Don't be overwhelmed with college but rather use it as a stepping stone, another experience. Don't get lost in the crowd, excel and let yourself shine.

Elise

You are an organized person, so try to stay on top of everything including courses, financial aid, and housing. Apply for more scholarships because although it takes time and thought it will be worth it if you actually win one. I know you hate it when mom is right but listen to her because she knows you do not want to graduate with all those students loans, and trust me they are a lot. When you get to college, get involved as soon as you can, it helps to make friends, connections, and it gives you constructive things to do outside of your school work. Also, get a job, preferrably off campus, because you will need to pay for books and you need to save now to pay all those loans back. Most of all remember you are in college for you, so do your best because you can get As, make yourself proud as well as mom and dad. Also, your grades and what you do will be a reflection of you and your work ethic for future employers so working hard can only help you in the long run. Good luck, Elise I know we can do it!

Chris

The very first statement I'd make to myself as a high school senior would be to, without a doubt, visit and RESEARCH your possible school choices. Do not choose your institution by the mere reputation and "prestige" associated with the name of the schools; being misled by what many have described as "resume boosters", a young adult choosing a 2- or 4-year institution will find themselves in an unfamiliar place that doesn't suit them at all. The most difficult thing a young person can experience is the disappointment that follows being accepted to what they truly believed was their "dream school", making their way there, and finding that the experience was lightyears away from what they'd hoped. I'd sincerely suggest to my younger self to view college websites, take a virtual tour, and take a look at the avaiable programs the school offers: sports clubs, campus activities, volunteering. The more interested in the campus itself you become, the more likely you are to visualize yourself immersed in everything the campus has to offer. Before you know it, you're more satisfied and confident---first, as a student, and with your choice to attend the institution.

Meghan

The first week is the toughest but get involved and don't be afraid to go up to people and say hi. Everybody is there to make friends. Study during the week so you can go out on the weekends. Time goes by fast so make sure you don't put anything off.

Pauletta

Make sure that the college fits what you are looking for as far as location, your choice of major, student to teacher ratio etc. The school should be able to help you get to wherever you want to go in life.

Angela

I can keep the short I think every child shoule be open to college choices and let the school almost pick you. I was not going to attend Towson until after my first visit and I am glad I pick this school because it is just right for me.

Craig

One thing I would suggest is to visit the schools. You want to get a good feel fot the schools you are applying to so you know which one is best for you. Thos is important because you will be deciding on where to spend the next for years of your education. Also make sure that you apply to many schools. Some that you know you can definitly get into and some you are not sure about and maybe even some that are a reach. You never know which you will get into and which you wont but always expect the best outcome. Also dont get to overwhelmed because no matter where you go to college, you are guarenteed over that the next four years will be the best years of your life and you will make life long friends. Also study hard and have a social life, but dont let you social life over take your study habbits because that will never have a possitive outcome and no one wants to fall behind. But if you dont have a social life you wont have a good time in college.

Matt

Know what you are looking for in a school. I chose my school because I will graduate in 3 more years into a job in education, which will pay for my masters degree. You just have to know what you want, and visit the school at least once. Take a tour of the school, but don't be afraid to break off and ask students questions yourself. My favorite thing was asking students, what was the best part and worst part about their school. That way you don't get the glittered up answers from the admissions workers, but straight from the students. Make sure if you are going to be living on campus you know what ALL of the dorms look like, because they might just show you the nicer ones to draw you in. Once you have found a school, just have fun. Do your work, but more importantly make friends, because college is a once in a life time experience. Even if you go back for a second degree, you will never have the experience of those first years out on your own again. Overall, just enjoy it, and make the best out of iit.

Steve

Make sure you go on a lot of school tours and check out the surrounding area before you make your decision. College should be the best time of your life. Make a decision with that in mind.

Danielle

I would tell students to visit as many schools as they can so they can determine what is right for them. Of course you have to take into account your financial situation etc., but the best way to choose your school is to go where it feels right. Sometimes the best school you get into isn't necessarily the best fit for you. When you consider that you will be spending a minimum of 4 years at a university, you should want to be somewhere that feels perfect no matter the case.