Union University Top Questions

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

Lauren

Advice I would give to parents/and or students would be to pray about the decision you are about to make. It could be the most important decision of your life. It will determine the quality of education you receive, what friends you make, and/or the type of career you begin upon graduation. Weigh the universities pros and cons. Try to find which one will fit you best. Each school will posess different qualities that could appeal to you or not appeal to you. Ultimately, take the decision seriously! It is very important and is more than just about partying. You are preparing yourself for the rest of your life. Parents, give your child wisdom and guidance, but ultimately leave the decision up to them.

Melissa

I would encourage both prospective students and their parents to research the schools in which they have interest. College visits are a great opportunity to get a first person perspective in addition to the opportunity to ask questions that may not have been answered in the college brochure. It is also a great idea, once you have chosen to visit a school, to request to stay overnight with a student. This gives the prospective student the opportunity to gain an understanding of what a typical day for a student at that college looks like. Host students are also an excellent source of information that may not be presented on a campus tour. A great way to make the most of your college experience is simple: get involved! Join organizations not only on campus, but get involved in the surrounding community. Not only is this a great way to make friends, but it is also a wonderful way to expand your horizons and worldviews.

Claire

Finding the right college and making the most of the college experience is all about balance. After reducing your list of schools to the ones that meet your desired criteria, a campus visit is the most valuable resource for a prospective student. No amount of research can capture the essence of a college like being on campus. My first choice was quickly changed when the actual flavor of the campus paled in comparison with my third choice. Choosing a college where you feel comfortable and meets your basic standards will position you to be able to make the most of your college experience. Once there, budget your time and get involved in things that interest you. Many students daily overbook themselves and leave no time to enjoy these precious years. There is just as much danger, however, in allowing fear to inhibit you from seeking out the many opportunities available to grow, learn, and experience things that will shape your future. The right balance of academics, wellness, social endeavors, and extra-curricular activities is vital to making the most of these years.

Stephanie

Dont be afraid to shopp around. Take aspects of each that you like and look for a college that combines them. As a new student, make sure to stay at college the first several weekends to get involved and meet people. It is very important to form a core group a friends, and then branch out to experience different people.

Michelle

In order to find the right college, I would reccomend that students and parents visit multiple colleges together. The student should be the one to pick their college, but the parents will have different questions than the students will. Together students get a more accurate picture of the college or university. The college or university should fit the student, both in size, academics, and beliefs. To make the most of the college experience I reccomend living on campus if possible. Many group gatherings can happen late at night or run into the night. Also many colleges and universities have a form of Residence Life that plans a few events for the people who live on campus. Living on campus can help you become more connected to other students.

Jessica

Go with your gut feeling. That sounds scary, I know, but really once you get past all the over-analyizing and the comparative charts, trust your feeling about that school. Of course, finding the right school does require actual work, but don't get too caught up in numbers. Once you choose your school and begin your first semester there, learn how to get out of your comfort zone. Once you hop over the proverbial fence of nervousness, you will be able to enjoy some many new and exciting experiences that would never have seemed possible before. Ask new questions, try new things, meet new people. It will be worth it!

Amy

Make sure you explore every possibility. Even if you don't think you could ever make it into a school because of the costs or the academic standards, check it out. I didn't think I would ever get into Union or afford it, but I have. God has opened up so many doors for me to be where I am now and I know I am in the right place. Things will fall into place if it's where God wants you to be. I would suggest attending a conservative Christian college if possible. Especially here at Union, your faith will be strengthened in and outside the classroom. You will be challenged to do the best you can do academically, be the best you can be spiritually and otherwise. Pray that God will lead you to the right school and trust Him, even if it doesn't make sense. It's always better to trust Him and be in the center of His will. :-) Good luck!

Andrew

You should always talk to other students that go there. Seniors are usually the best because they have experienced the most, but faculty will only tell you what you want to hear.

Lara

I would match my childs career goals with a school that offered classes and teachings that would further encourage growth toward their educational goals. I would select a that have a good reputation; however, it does not jeopardize it integrity to keep it.

Lauren

I would tell future college students and their parents to consider schools carefully and slowly. Begin looking early so there is no rush or pressure on your decision. Be sure to consider every aspect of the campus. While the exciting athletic program or beautiful campus may be appealing, make sure to meet those who work in the admissions and financial aid departments because you will be dealing with them often. Also, look particularly at the aspect of the campus that will most affect you. If you are most concerned about the living situation, the athletic department, or your particular field of study, pay close attention to that aspect of each school you visit or research instead of wasting time researching or debating aspects of the campus that you will never utilize as a student. I would also recommend applying to as many colleges and universities as you can; you never know what will happen between the time you apply and the time you make your final decision. After all research and visitng is complete, I would recommend time to think and really consider which school has the most overall appeal and advantage to you as you prepare for your future.

Brittany

In advising a parent or student in choosing what college is best for them and how to make the most of their experience I would tell them to focus. They need to know coming in that they will be committed to their education. College, I do not believe, is for four extra years of play time. Yes, it is a great time, but it is work. If you are focused and committed in your studies you can have a good time outside of your studies as well, but in the end college is about soaking up as much knowledge as you can and learning to apply it to your life. Education for the sake of education is good, try to remember that in your decision. It is worth going to college in order to learn, it is not entirely about getting a job after graduation. Focus on learning as much as you can, select a school that has strong teaching and professors who love their students and who are excellent in their fields. This will create an excellent foundation for which college is chosen and what goes on during the years a student is there.

Ashley

Students and parents need to work together to find the place where each student will best fit. Sometimes this may mean compromising on one or both ends. Be open-minded when going into college. However, be careful not to get caught up in things that will wreck your college career. Be prepared for a challenge and be ready to meet it with open arms.

Kayleigh

During my senior year in high school I was surrounded by friends who had found "the perfect college." I felt like I was the only person who never experienced the feeling "this is where I fit" during any of my college visits. I felt like I would not have a good college experience because I had not found the school that was my perfect fit. Even the university that I chose to attend did not come with any bells or signals to tell me that this was where I would be happy. However, when applying for scholarships, the professors at this university gave me the most down to earth advice to take with me for any of my college decisions. I chose this school because they gave me unbiased advice to the questions I had and gave the most money in scholarships. I did not want to come out of college with debt hanging over my head. I believe the key to making the most of a college experience is not finding the perfect college, but coming into the experience with an open mind and a good attitude. If you have those, you could make the most of college anywhere.

Amanda

College is more than just a few buildings with classrooms and professors. It's a place where you discover a lifetime of knowledge, long-term friends, and cherished memories. Some may think you should choose the college that dishes out the most financial aide, and although that may seem wise, it's usually not the best choice. You should choose the one where everything seems to fall into place, as if this particular college is where you were meant to be. I first chose a school far from home to get out of the small town I felt like I was stuck in. Running away to far off and unknown lands was not the best way to go. Nothing seemed to be working out right. I finally gave up hope, and after much thought decided to apply to a school closer to home. It was more prestigious, more expensive, and yet it was exactly where I needed to be. Everything fell into place and I have loved going there ever since. When it's the right college, you know you can make the most of your college experience because the wrong ones just don't cut it.

Nathan

Most schools offer the same degrees. Not all schools offer the same experiences. Find somewhere that has a unique experience that not everyone is going to have. Whether it be through the setting or evironment on campus, find somewhere to call your own.

Eric

First, decide what you want from your college experience. What matters most to you? The education? The people? Social experience? The price? These questions will guide you towards certain schools. Once you know that, you can list places that seem to fit what you are seeking. Next, visiting the school is vital. Ask the people who are meeting with you specific questions - ones that an unclear answer cannot be given. For example, if racial diversity is key for you, do not ask, "Is your campus racially diverse?" Instead, ask "What ethnicities are represented here and what percent of the school do they make up?" After all, their job is to make the school appealing to everyone, but no school can truly appeal to everybody. Secondly, but even more importnantly, seek out a chance to talk to the students, especially ones you identify with in some way - area of study, faith, ethnicity, economically - whatever you value about yourself. These people are not motivated professionally in your choice, and therefore have no problems telling you the flaws. They also may know some reasons to come that matter to you that the school did not mention or not know were important to you.

Kristen

Deciding where to go to college is hard and big decision. For parents I suggest letting their children decide where to go and support them even thought you may not agree because whether you what to admit it or not they are on their way to becoming an adult! Also let them know that whatever they choose to do for a degree you support them, I do suggest giving them a time limit so they do not take advantage of you! And the first year/semester I think it is okay to hold their hand a bit, but make your son or daughter take responsibility, they may not like it but it will be good for them in the long run. For the student I would say your parents will not be able to hold your hand for ever....get over it your an ADULT now! Look at colleges that will really care about you and make sure the professors care about helping you because they will be the ones handing out your grades! Also do not take advantage of your parents, thank them for the opportunity you have to go to college, most people don't get this chance!

Ryan

I would advice parents and students to visit several colleges/universities and be prepared to ask questions at each school. I also believe that families should pray about the decision of the college that best suits the student. Finding the right fit is important to a successful college career.

Casey

?All who call on God in true faith, earnestly from the heart, will certainly be heard, and will receive what they have asked and desired.? This quote by the great reformer Martin Luther speaks to the question at hand. The best advice anyone could give concerning a decision is to pray and seek God?s will. When choosing a college, the student and the parents should consider things such as majors offered, school and city population, and distance from home. For obvious reasons the college that is chosen should offer the desired major and, if the student is undecided, it should offer a variety. Some people are not used to large classes and cities or being away from home. For this reason population and distance are important. Once the student has chosen a school, it is vital that involvements in local campus activities are sought after. This is an excellent way to make friends and gain social skills, whether it is in the form of Greek life, clubs, etc. Be engaged in as many opportunities as possible while still making good grades. College is a great time in life so take full advantage of all that it has to offer.

melissa

look for a college with many majors if you are not sure what you want to study.look for a college that is the right size for your comfort. look for a college that holds your values and beliefs.

Shemeka

I would advise parents and students to choose the college that is very strong in the student's major of choice. I would also encourage them to choose a college that follows their values and beliefs. Picking a college with a very safe campus and a sufficient amount of security is very important as well. Choosing a college where the students are similar to the prospective student, as far as goals and personal choices, makes it easier for the new student to adjust. It would also be important to choose a college that has access to tutoring and activities to enhance their learning skills. And finally, a parent and student should choose a college that simply feels comfortable to them. The faculty and staff should be very respectful, helpful, and have a joyful spirit when it comes to serving their needs.

MATTHEW

My advice would be to start looking in your Junior year of High School. Begin by focusing on what your strengths are academically; then choice size; then I recommend the choice of area. The reason I would focus on my strengths first is so I will be choosing a school in which I can fit academically, a university in which I feel I am challanged intellectually, and emotionally. Next focus would be size because I was home schooled; and I feel a large campus would be too invasive, too cold, just too big. Last of all my choice would intell the area. I love my family, so I want to be away but also want to be able to connect them without feeling a sense of distance. Most of all after you have found all of these areas of fullfillment; there is the feel of the campus visit; how did I feel as I walked around and visited as a stranger at this place; did I feel at home; did I feel welcome or out of place? This last area would be the deciding factor.

Joy

When a student is considering a college or university, one of the most important things to remember is that college is furthering one's eduation; thus, I would encourage them to spend a lot of time thinking through their options and attempt to visualize where they see themselves for the next one to four years. The interests they have in a certain career could be a deciding factor, or out of state tuition could be a struggle they need to consider. Overall, I believe that both students and parents should take adequate time to process all the information regarding each school in consideration. Now, in regards to making the most of one's college experience, that is completely dependent upon the student. Do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone and try something new and fun. Get involved in ministries or activities. They sould find out what interests them the most, plug in, and commit to stay involved throughout their entire college experience.

Ashley

I would tell students to find a place where they could see themselves for their next 4 years. This should be a place that will help them grow academically as well as personally. Once they decide on a school, they should be as involved as possible without putting a strain on their academic performance. The next 4 years of their life will be spend at the school they choose and with the people that they make friends with. Some of these friends will grow into life long friendships that may be cherished for many years to come.

Megan

Searching for and finding the right college is very tough to do during the last few years of high school, however if approached correctly and cautiously students and parents can make the right choice. First, students should carefully consider all of their college options and never rule out an institution that seems to be out of reach. This is easy to do because students feel as if their grades are not good enough to be accepted to the institution; however, many admission offices are looking for well rounded students, which is more than just GPA. Also, students and parents should visit all options and not rule out any until a visit is made and the student has walked on the campus. By walking on the campus, talking with current undergraduate students and professors, and sitting in on a class, students will feel if the environment is right for them. Lastly, in order to make the most of the college experience students must not waste the opportunity that is given to them. Since the cost of a college degree is continually rising, students must not take for granted the opportunity to study under some the greatest minds in their field.

Emily

Choose a college with a campus that you like, but also in a city or town that you like. If you go to a college in a town that you really don't like, it will not be easy for 4 years because you have to live with it.

Helen

I believe the parents and students need to pray about where God wants them to go. I think before they even go to visit a college campus they should really see where God is leading them. Then, when they visit the campus they will have an overall peace about it and know that is exactky where God wants them. Also, sitting in on a class and talking to some of the faculty and even some if the students can be very beneficial on helping a person decide where to go. To make the most of a colleg student the student just has to trust God and open up. He/she just has to throw himself/herself into activities and discover what he/she loves. Overall God is key to finding the right college and for making the most of a college experience because some pretty horrible things can happen but with God there one can realize just how much of an amazing experience it has been.

Joshua

I would advise parents to chose someplace that is far enough away from home that the studend has to be independent and live life without his parents. This is to allow the students to grow and ways that they never could if they were sitll living in their parents' house. I would also recomend to the parents that they not support the student very much, but force him to work and make a living on his own, but be ready to step in and help if the student asks for assistance. Both of these things combined molds students into why they want to be faster. They become more mature and act more like audults because they are being forced to live like an audult.

Kelsey

While the financial aspect of a college is usually the first thing a parent considers, I encourage the parent and the student to look beyond finances. You are going to be living on this campus for four years and you need it to fit you. My university isn't very fancy and doesn't have high-tech facilities. It's also very expensive since it is a private Baptist school. However, I love Union University because of the people that go here. You should be able to get a sense of the kind of students that attend a school and whether or not that's going to fit your personality. I feel absolutely comfortable with myself here and that sense of self-confidence inspires me to accomplish what I came here to do. There's not a perfect college out there, but it's about finding what fits you best. College is a wonderful thing in that you discover who you are in those four years. Making the most out of your college experience involves learning what you are capable of through very unique personal experiences and how you can apply your specific skills to something you value in life.

Christina

The best thing to do is get a head start. If you can, go to the preview days of your top choices. When you get to experience a day in the shoes of a college student, it can reveal more than any brochure or web video can show you. Talk to the students, the faculty, the staff - find out what they feel their school has to offer that others do not. It really helped me to make a list of positives and negatives after I toured each school; this way I could remember what I liked or didn't like about each one. Weigh the positives and negatives, depending on which are most important to you, and pray about where you think you will gain the best education and college experience. You are not only there to gain a higher education and enjoy college life, but your next four years will shape your character, molding you into an adult who will eventually be faced with the professional world. My decision to attend Union has tremendously shaped my worldview, pushed me to strive for a higher degree of excellence in my education, and provided me with a number of lifelong friends.

Leslie

When looking for the right college I would recommend finding a place where you feel most comfortable and accepted for who you are. Choosing a college based only on your major is not the wisest idea because most college students change their major mulitple times before finally settling on the right one. I believe that making the most of your college experience is all in how you look at it. What do you want your college experience to be? Everyone has a different idea of what they want. For me, participating in the activities provided for freshman such as, focus groups that met during orientation and Life Groups that met weekly for the first semester, provided opportunities to meet people right off the bat; and it was in those groups that I met some of my very best friends that are still around 2 1/2 years later. So, I say all that to say, do not be afraid to commit to being involved on campus just be careful to not over commit. Pick a few activities that you know you will enjoy; activities that will allow you to use your talents and gifts and dive in deep.

Amy

I know that parents and students both get bogged down with the whole financial part of the college experience. For me, personally, this was a huge factor. I was not able to pay for the type of private college I wanted to and had to seriously seek out scholarships. I would advise students, especially to apply for as many individual scholarships as you can. Also, the environment of the campus should be a major influencing factor. This is the place you are going to be living at for four years. It is important that you, as the student, feel comfortable on campus and really enjoy the campus. Overall, this is the students decision. You can make the most of your college life where ever you are. Get involved. Make friends even if it is uncomfortable at first. I would advise parents to give their children some freedom and trust them as they go off to school. Trust that the college they chose is the right one for them. This is the time in their lives when they will grow the most. They are preparing for their future during these years. Let them enjoy it.

Joshua

The advice I would have to give parents and students about selecting a college is simple. Select several institutions that support the academics and character they hold to be important in their own lives. Treat it as investment because in the long run it will pay off. I know money is an important factor and should be considered, but the quality of your education is just as important. Choose a school that best fits you and the standards whether social or academic that you set for yourself. After selecting the right school, give it all you have academically and socially. Get to know people, work with people, and serve people. Learn life! Also, studying hard in and out of the class room. Enjoy hard work and the pay off that is recieved at the end when the job is finished. Basically, to get the most out of college put your best into it and the blessings will flow.

Carri

One of the most important things I found out when I was looking at schools was that it is crucial to stay organized. Students need to stay on top of application and scholarship deadlines, and having a system and a plan really helped me. Another thing that students need to know is that choosing the right college is ultimately up to them, not their parents. Mom and Dad can help with the process to an extent, but it is mainly the student's responsibility to make sure they have everything turned in on time. Once a student has been accepted and has started school, I think it is very important to get involved with things on campus. The roomates may be great, but it is in different activities that they will make friends the fastest, and therefore will also make the most of their college experience.

Tsega

Visit the campus and TALK TO THE STUDENTS! The recruiters are paid to tell you all the positive things about the school, but really just look around at the students and see if they look happy and satisfied. Also, find schools that have a diverse population, not just racially, but politically, religion, etc. You want to get the best out of your college experience and you want to learn not only about yourself, but about other people and their beliefs. This is so important because you want to graduate as a well-rounded individual, not someone who is stuck in a bubble with people who are exactly like your high school peers. Academically, be sure the college can prepare you for the field you want to pursue. Check the quality of the education, the acceptance rates into graduate programs, etc, as relates to your intended field. Extracurricular activities are also so important. You need something other than just schoolwork all the time - find out what students do for fun, as well as the college's involvement in volunteer programs and the community.

Kayla

Try to find the place that you feel most at home. Of course be sure that they have good academics, but you can find that at many schools. Look for a place that provides extra-curricular activies, ways to get involved. You are going to be in college for 2-4 years, so it needs to be a place that you can see yourself being 24/7. The best way to check out a school is to visit it in person and to stay overnight if you can! Meet some of the people there to see what your peers will be like!

Karie

College is the moment in your life when you grow up and not find who you are, but rather create who you are. Surrounding yourself with that care and professors who want to do succeed is essential. It is important for a student to feel comfortable with where he or she is. If the student isn't comfortable or doesn't like where he or she is, then they are less likely to succeed in their education. I know that every parent wants their child to attend the best college and do well, but they must realize that it is the child's decision as to what college they choose.

Katherine

Everyone is going to have a different college experience, and not everyone's right college is where all of their friends are going. Picking the right college is an extremely important decisions. When choosing my college, I made a list of the things tha tI was looking for in a college (example: what major I was interested in, sororities, dorms, etc.) and then I made a list of the important aspects of a college (example: location, tuition, scholarhships available). Keeping both of these lists in mind, I found the perfect college for me. Wherever you go, I would say that one of the most important things that you can do is to get involved. Being involved allows you to meet new people, become more affiliated with the school, and get to know the community.

Peter

You need to look for a place that may be out of your comfort zone because it is only there that you will be stretched and forced to discover who you really are once you get away from all the stuff that has influenced your life growing up. The decision needs to be one that the student makes otherwise it will be miserable and sad because in being miserable they would miss out on all the awesome things that being a college student has to offer. Pray hard and find the place that you are called to go. In college, I would say study hard but have fun. My greatest memories will be the crazy times I share with my friends and it will be those that I will look back on and enjoy. Grades are important for sure, but don't let them govern your life. Also, get involved, join clubs, meet people because you never know who you will meet and the affect doing those things will have on your life. Give back more than you take and you will find that you end up with more than you could have ever imagined.

Victoria

The greatest advice I could give any prospective student would be to visit the colleges that you are looking at. You may be able to read all of their statistics and brochures, but until you have been there, slept in a dorm room, talked to the students and met the faculty and administrators, you will not know what the school is all about. Ask lots of questions and discover how helpful they are. The selling point for me when I visited the university that I attend was the genuine interest of the faculty. Most colleges treated me like a number. Whether I attended did not affect them, but at Union I was a person, and a person that they wanted to attend their university. I would also encourage living on campus. Being in the dorms gives you a sense of community that you cannot get off campus. Besides, when in your lifetime will you ever have the opportunity to live in a place surrounded by all of your closest friends? College is an incredible experience. Be responsible, focus on your education, but also enjoy the unique position you are in. Have fun, be involved, and love every minute of it!

Heather

It?s your senior year of high school, and the guidance counselor is breathing down your neck about college applications. You glance at the pile of college brochures on your desk, a pile that has been steadily growing ever since sophomore year. Where should you start? First, you need to decide on your priorities for your choice of college. Are you looking for a college that caters to a specific major or one with a certain environment? Do you want to attend a college that is close to home or is distance not even an issue? Once you decide on your priorities, then you can delve into that intimidating stack of pamphlets. After finding colleges that fit your expectations, go visit them. Experience the atmosphere, interact with faculty and students, and explore all facets of college life at that school. The more you experience, the better your chances of discovering the college that is right for you. Finally, do not be afraid to take risks. This advice relates to both applying to colleges and to making the most of your college years. Try new things and step out of your comfort zone?you never know what you might discover!

Katy

It is vital when selecting the right university for you or your child, that you consider the place where he or she will learn the most. Not necessarily just in the classroom, but at that particular university in general. At the university that I attend, I have learned more than I could have ever imagined about my major, my beliefs, relationships, and myself. I honestly don't know if I would have learned this much at another institution. I found the place that spoke to the different facets of who I am. Not just as an art major, but on a personal level. That is what is important; a combination of the knowledge to be obtained inside and outside of the classroom. My hope is that every college student will find the fulfillment that I have found and am continuing to find in the choice I made.

Grant

Listen to what God has to say about where to choose and don't go anywhere for yourslef.

Corey

Go to a University that you love from the moment you see it. Get to know everyone you can!

Corey

The decision for a college is one of morals, ethics, social life, academic priority....and possibly even climate. To find the best fit, you must examine yourself. Search out your interest in academic standards. Do you want small classes that challenge you to think critically, or would you rather file into an auditorium and memorize terms then ask help from a TA. You should also decide what type of campus you wish to be a part of. What importance to you put on your religion or community. Do you want to go Greek? These are two incredibly important questions, because every student body is known for the activities on which it places the most emphasis. Many schools promote cultural integration and religious learning, while others promote the Greek system and athletics more. One of the biggest decisions you will make, possibly before you look to academics, is to choose what type of social and cultural environment you wish to be a part of. Most importantly, visit campuses. The best way to rule out a college choice is by visiting and saying, "This doesn't feel right." Go with your instincts; They're usually right.

Andrea

Don't pick a college or university based on your friend's choice!

Lindsay

Apply to several different places. Also, take several campus visits and let your child stay on campus with a student to get a real feel of the college.

Bradley

Considering that college is one of the most important parts of a student's life, strive to be thorough in your search for finding the right college. Examine yourself so that you know who you are and what you want most in life, and be aware of any interests or leanings you might have towards new things. Take every opportunity you get to do something you haven't tried before, and revel in the learning experience. Life is about doing your best, but no one is perfect, so realize that even failing at something provides more wisdom in life, if not increased visibility in what you have planned for the future. When you get to college, know that there are two equally important parts to your learning there. Focus on studying in your discipline; this is imperative to having a successful career. But no less valuable is the task of making good friends and learning about life from them. Getting to know other worldviews and a wide variety of important cultural ideas is just as significant as focusing on job-specific skills.

Dustin

Not every college is for every student. The student needs to dig deep inside and discover both who he or she is and what he or she wants out of life. Only after this has been discovered should you choose a college. Once you have answered this question, find a college that fits your self-description. Find a school that will help you get what you want out of life while providing an environment that encourages you and gives you a sense of pride about who you are as a person. Academics is an important factor when deciding, but it is not the only factor. If a school can give you the degree you want but makes you miserable for the entire college experience, this school may not be the right one. Conversely, if a school gives you a sense of belonging but does not challenge your mind, another school may be a better fit. Never settle. There is a college that can meet your academic, social, and personal needs. Find it.

Amber

The best advice I could give to a student looking for a school to attend, is to not settle for a school that is just "okay." Make sure you love your school. When I visited Union University for the first time, I just knew it was the right school for me. I understand that not every student will have this automatic feeling of certainty, but I would encourage students to keep all of their options open. I know that I will walk out of Union University with loans to pay but I don't regret attending this school. I know that the education I'm recieving is worth it. I would encourage parents not to pressure their children to attend a certain school or pick a certain major. It may make the parent happy but if the child doesn't enjoy what they're doing, they could be miserable. Support your children no matter where they decide to go or what major they choose. My parents have been supportive throughout my college career and it encourages me knowing I have that support. I would just encourage parents and students to be open to all different kinds of schools and majors.