Truman State University Top Questions

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

Justin

In the end, the academics is by far the most important thing on which to base a college choice, because it is the only thing that will truly ensure success for the rest of your life..

Matt

Put some serious time and effort at looking at a diverse sample of schools, in size and location, as well as general feel of your student in the setting of the university. Look at the resources and ways for involvement that are going to shape one's college career and lifestyle. Make sure to avoid feelings of limitation in your search for your niche.

Leah

Please consider Truman as a place to receive a quality education. At Truman, there may not be a whole lot going on in terms of a vibrant city life, but it is here you learn that friendships are what make the difference. Because there is little to do outside of school activities, people tend to spen a lot of time with friends. Also, the teachers here really care about their students and want them to succede. I would recomond Truman to anyone who wants a quality education for an afordable cost. There really is something for everyone here.

Jenna

When searching for the right school, there are two things you should look for. First, academics are important of course. Check out the educational programs and make sure that you find what you are looking for. Also, make sure that there is a variety of programs, just in case you change your mind. The next tip would be, notice the way the school makes you FEEL. Does the environment feel like home to you? You will probably be there for the next 2 to 4 years. Sometimes you will be stressed out, and having a comfortable environment makes a big difference during these times. Make sure that there are clubs you would join, places you would go, and things you would like to get involved in. While academics are important, college is about much more than brain work. College is a life experience that will greatly impact the way your journey continues.

Kate

Find a place where you can see yourself going. Look at all factors--education, money, activities, etc. Everyone is different, so make sure it is a place that you feel you would learn well in and enjoy.

Jamal

To make the best of a college expirience there are a number of factors needed for the best expirience: size, racial diversity, extra curricular activities, location, etc. It all basically depends on what kind of person you are. If you sstay to yourself and dont go out a lot, a small academic based school is probably better for you. If you like to party a lot, rather in school or not, a big division 1 school is probably better for you. Overall there are many combinations that benefit to your succession , but in order get right the first time you have to research whats best for you.

Angie

i do not know

Zach

visit colleges a lot

Emily

Definitely don't make the mistake I made by going to the cheapest school instead of one that was a much better fit for me. Look for a school that encourages activities you are interested in and will provide an environment you will be comfortable in. If you like to party, don't go to a really small school. If you don't like to study, don't go to a school that is known for being hard. If you like sports, go to a school with a good athletic program. If you like to live in a city, don't go to school in a remote area. If you like small towns, don't go to a school in a huge city. Basically, just consider all aspects of the school you will be chosing, not just price so that you will find a place where you fit in and will be comfortable and will look forward to going back to every year.

Leah

Be considerate of your budget, but do what feels best. Consider the quality of education you can afford. Place yourself in an evironment that includes what you feel is important. Decide what is a priority in your college experience. Ask yourself if you could feel proud about your school and excited to be there. Don't overlook your social life, it is always important to enjoy people and fun activities no matter how overwhelmed and busy you may become. This is the such a wonderful time in life that offers so much room for personal growth and acedemic advancement. Go to a school that will strech you and allow you to feel like you got a quality education for your money. Also consider how important the city/environment is to your experience. College could be a time to experience a very different climate/geography and population, but keep in mind if quality of acedemics is the top priority to you. Are you willing to give up a big city feel and large student population for a quality education that is highly affordable? This is the attitude I approached. Think of your parents and your financial future.

JW

College is one of those times that seems so important when you start out. It is so very important, but it's important to remember that no matter what happens and where you end up, college will be a brand new experience and you will learn no matter where you go. There is almost no such thing as a "bad-fit" college, students just aren't looking hard enough for the life that they want. Students, no matter where you go, make the most of it and live without regret. You will make tons of new friends and learn so many new things in and out of the class. Where you go almost ceases to matter after a while. Parents, your kids are adults now, and it's important to let them make this first huge decision of their adult lives. Don't fret if they don't get in to the college you have picked out for them, almost all college have a life-changing, adult-making effect on almost all students. Remember that choosing where to go to college is the most important choice you can make that won't matter in the end anyway.

Emily

Parents should look at what class sizes the school offers, the financial aide packages, and also the location. Students need to be in an environment which they enjoy.