University of Arkansas at Little Rock Top Questions

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

Ashton

I would tell myself that college starts now. Many people aren't told much about college in their younger years. Back then I did not know the dedication it would take. Our high school years are not near as challenging as college. Because of this, we wait, and we tend to play around more. I would give myself the knowledge of sites such as fastweb, because our high school teachers did not inform us. I believe that the main reason people drop out of college is not beccause it is too challenging, but because of financial issues. Knowing about private scholarships and such would put me ahead. Most of all, I would congratulate myself because of my attitude. I knew then, and I know now that I would go to college and succeed. So I would say to myself, "Keep doing what you are doing. Someday you'll look back and realize your progress."

Aprilo

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a senior in high school I would make sure to inform myself to take schooling more serious. That when i did go to college for my softball scholarship to make sure to pay attention and not take advantage of the oppertunities i was given, and to take my career path to a higher level and not to settle when it comes to what i can occomplish. I would tell myself that "yes" I will go far in life and i will be happy in the end but i do end up going back to school later in life and if i would have just follow my heart at the age of 18 and not followed what my friends I would have a better career and would be able to provide for my children and family better in the future.

Heather

If I had the chance to go back in time I would tell myself many things. I did start college while being a senior in high school. However, I thought I knew what I wanted to do and did not care to listen to others opinions. I was told so many times that I should go into the medical field. However, I went to school to be a teacher. This decision turned into multiple changed majors, lose of scholarship and finally a hiatus from college. I am now going back to school for a degree in nursing. If I only had the chance to tell myself to listen to others I might have avoided a lot of hard times. I would tell myself to get more advising during my senior year of high school and freshman year of college. I would tell myself to live at home longer. Most importantly I would tell myself that the amount of loans required to do college without scholarships will exceed my own comfort zone.

Ashleigh

I would start off the conversation by telling myself to adopt new study habits. Preparing for college assignments is not as easy as preparing for high school assignments. I would also tell myself to get more involved in extracurricular activities while still in high school so it would be easier to get involved in college. When your activities have been limited for so long, it can be overwhelming when you try to do this in college. You are away from home, surrounded by hundreds to a couple thousand new people. Joining a group at this point may be pushing the comfort level just a bit. I would end by telling myself to just relax and don't try to be someone or something I am not. College is not about impressing your peers, it's about discovery of who you really are as a person. College is when you find out who your true friends are.

Sydney

I would say that, "College is an experience that is nessassary to aquire the goals we have for ourselves. There is a new dance department at the University of Arkansas Little Rock, take advantage of that and get what you can out of your teachers. Every program is only as good as their teachers. If you feel a connection to them then you need to use that and learn. College may not be the 'fun' choice, but college is to learn, and learning is fun." I would have convinced myself by saying that. My only goal from college is to learn.

Kim

One thing I would do is tell that teenager to make sure she gets her secondary education and obtain her degree. Don't stop there, keep going until you make it to the top, because the sky is the limit. Education is so important, and raising a family, working full-time, and going to school part-time is a tremendous amount of stress, nevertheless you can do it, but it is just that much difficult versus doing it right after highschool since the information is still fresh in your mind. You will not be able to have a decent job without having at least a Bachelor's Degree. Most jobs now, want you to have that, and your salary is based on that fact, along with any experience you might have. If you have a dream, dream big, and don't let anything or anybody deter you from getting what belongs to you. If you have an opportunity, take it because it may not be there tomorrow.

Marisha

Thus far I have made good decisions in my college career but I would tell myself to take more risks and don't be afraid of new things. Just do it!!!

Daentte

My advice would be to go to college right after high school, not to wait until I was 42 to go to college.

Jordan

The first piece of advice I would give is to be really focused on my education. It is easy to forget when you are sitting in a class and not doing so good that the outcome of that class could change your future forever. If I would have really known that advice was true, then there would have been more times when I would have forced myself out of bed to make it to class instead of just putting it off. The third and final advice I would give is to become more active in the community and in the church. Our society now is struggling and there are too many people that need our help, commnity service allows us to give back to those people and it is important to get involved because you never know when you might be in a situation that you will need someone's help. It is also important to be a part of a church family because they are always there to help pick you up when you have fallen.

Daquishia

Be prepared to work hard and study. No time to play around. Education is very important.

Amber

If I could go back in time I would tell myself to always put forth all my effort into everything I do. Everything you do matters and makes a difference in your life whether you realize it or not. Keep in touch with you friends and your teachers, they will ultimately make a huge impact on your references to your college applications. Don't ever be afraid to ask advice from older people because they have been in your same shoes. I wish that I would have not let my college decision be based on my friends decisions because you never know which friends are going to be by your side forever. If I could go back in time I would change a lot of things but in the end I am glad that I am where I am right now because I wouldn't be who I am today if not for all of those things.

Chris

College is a four-year minute; love it, live it, and know that it will be the best time of your life. Know that responsibility must be one of your best qualities. There will be decisions you make that you will regret and things might not always go the way you had planned but to stay strong and confident and make your own road. There are not paths for you to follow. Enjoy it.

Jordan

I would tell myself that college is really important for your future and that all your effort needs to be made to ensure successfull completion.

Sadie

Don't work while in college.

Dawn

Man, if I had that opportunity! If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to do as much research as I possibly could on all the colleges in my area, surrounding states and even those out of state. I would have told myself to really search out the possible scholarship and financial aid options available to me and not give up on trying to get my higher education paid for. I would have also told myself to apply more and not have only one or two schools in mind - the more the merrier. Finding out more about Greek life, campus life and volunteering is also something I would've advised for myself as an entering freshman. I realize now more than ever how much that stuff really adds to the college experience as well as how much substanance it adds to the resume. I believe everything else is all about going through the college experience for myself and I feel as though I've really done the right thing since high school graduation.

Lindsay

To take the ACT more seriously, and to take higher level courses through highschool. Not that I am totally disappointed in my score, I just know that if I would have really studied more that it would have increased my score and increased my chances of receiving more scholarship money. Also, if I took more intense classes I think that I would have been able to be more prepared of the extent of studying that I undergo now. Other than that I am happy with my progress in school.

Sana

I know it is hard to go from a top private school in the state, to this not-so-reputable university not far from home. It's not what you think, there are still so many opportunities. Some very smart people come out of this university, it is just about what you make of your education and college life that will help you succeed. Plus, you got into one of the best education systems in the state in your very own home city, the Donaghey Scholars Program. So many people say that is an ivy league education in Arkansas. Just go at it with determined spirit and optimism, get involved, make good choices, and give back to the community. You will make many friends, that you will keep for eternity, and gain wisdom from your experiences. You are making the right decision, and you will be a proud alumni one of these days.

Joseph

Firstly, take a couple of courses on studying and reading college material. Study habits are a difficult thing to pick up, but would be very useful. And study VERY hard and make sure you know the material. Second, though you may think you don't qualify, apply for scholarships. You will need all the help you can get. Thirdly, go for what you want, and don't let yourself get distracted as you're prone to. Fourthly, stay focused. It might seem like drudgery, but you will be surprised how much you know by the end.

Ansheneike

I would advice the parents to allow their child to make the decision on their own, because being successfull in any type of college means to have comfort in thier surroundings.

Amy

I would give everyone the same advice. I would suggest a thorough examination of the school. The students need to research the school to see if they have the programs they need out of a school. They need to research the school's finances and see if they can afford the school. To make the most of a college experience, students should get involved. They need to make friends and take many courses allowing them to get a variety of ideas on what is available in the real world. I would suggest for the student to find a professor who could help them throughout the schooling process to make decisions and guide them in the right direction. Do not waste your time. You are paying for your school so do not blow it. This is our chance to make something of ourselves and obtain a knowledge that sets us apart from others; this makes us above average.

Uriah

Know what you want out of life in your future career, find a school that will help you get there and believe in yourself.

Chaslin

I would advice people to go to the school for their self and just ask random people their views on the school. Come and check out there programs and financial aid before you make your decision. You want the best or close to it education possible. Just weigh out your option. See which one feels like home to you and you can grow academically and socially.

Latasha

Picking the right college for you will be the most important decision of a person's life. You have to the find the one that suits your lifestyle for now and also the future. Once you find the right college, have a good time. Study hard and play safe, but remember to enjoy yourself. Your college years will fly by fast.

Keith

Have a good idea about why you want to go to college, and do a little bit of research on the schools to find the ones that are known for those fields. Apply to as many of those schools as you can. Visit them. Visit professors. Talk to students. Choose the school where you feel comfortable.

Jessica

To make the most of your college experience you need to be prepared before you even start. Since high school was so easy for me i thought college would be the same but i was wrong. College is hard and you have to put a lot of time and effort into it. Finding a college that is close to home or more importantly that is financially resonible is very important. Paying for school is a huge challenge for me and i'm going to assume that it is that way for a lot of people also. It seems so pointless at times to be spending that much money on a few classes each semester, the costs are adding up to this huge lump some and at times you want to ask yourself is it really worth all this. You just have to grit your teeth and tough it out because yes it will be worth it in the long run after you finish school and are working your dream job with an excellant education behind you, just don't think about all the student loans you will have to repay!!

Emily

The best piece of advice i can give about finding the right college is to attend the college that is nearest to where you live. When you go to a school close to your community you are far more comfortable with your surroundings, making yourself more relaxed when you start school. It is also very convenient because of it's location (especially if you already have a job that you like or if your kids are in school), and best of all, you have love and support of your local friends and family that keep you going all year long. The best advice I can give about making the most of the college experience is to be very social and get involved with campus activities, such as an international student day. Honestly, I am not a fan of fraternaties and sororiteies because they tend to do a lot of partying and you are always around the same people. But if you were to participate in an international student day you would meet so many more people, and that is what is most memorable. I know that if you follow this advice you will have the experience of a lifetime.

Jeremy

Research information on the colleges of your choice. Then visit the different colleges, and ask as many questions as you can possibly think of asking. This will let you know which college is the best for you. Once you enter college try to get involved with some activity on campus.

Keith

Don't focus only on the big names, or only the cheapest schools. Take the time to do a little research and see how the students at prospective campuses feel about attending there. If at all possible, visit the campus. Talk to departments. Talk to students. Visit campus libraries. One thing you do not want is to feel like you don't belong where you are going. Sometimes first impressions can be the deciding factor.

Allegra

Find a college that has programs that you are interested in, or specializes in the field you are thinking of going into. Make sure there is a wide variety of electives to encourage finding new interests. Look into how interactive professors are with their students. Professors are a valuable resource. Take advantage of the guest speakers and lectures taht the university offers on campus as well as the programs that are offered. Many unicersity spend a lot of time and effort organizing events, clubs, and lectures to create interest in different occupations, interests, hobbies, ect. They are also a way to get networked into the university, make contacts and friends.

Joseph

make sure the college "clicks" with you, if it doesn't you'll never succeed at that college

Brian

Study hard and don't slack or get behind, pick a school with things you like and will be helpful to you.

Amanda

Go to orrientation, talk to advisors, professors and students, and determine if you qualify for financial aid!!!

Danielle

One of the biggest things students need to consider when choosing the right college is to not always go with what all of your friends are doing. This is because the majority of those friends will end up transferring to another college after the first semester. Really look into the school's program for whatever major you are seeking, because you dont want to end up attending a college with a bad pre-medical program, for example. You should definitely take a campus tour of each college you are considering so that you get to see just how big the campus is and how it is layed out. Most of all, this is not a decision that needs to be rushed. Students and parents should start looking for colleges early, and don't make any decision certain until you've tested all of your options. Good luck!

CaTrina

If at all possible live on campus the whole time. This way you meet new people and learn how to deal with other personalities. Try to go to most of the campus activities which most of the time have free food and are always free and fun. Try to make good use of the gym; you are already paying for it so why not. Make sure you schedule your classes where you know there will not be a chance you may over sleep and miss. Always go to class unless it is an emergency and you have to miss. Try not to be late all the time. Also if it's possible get a workstudy job; this way you can work until five o'clock every day, no weekends of course. Because of the relationship I have with my boss, I love going to work everyday. Everyone in the office is so nice. By being a Spanish major, I get help if I need it from the spanish professors. I don't think I could have asked for a better job ever.

james

The advice i would give to parents and students on choosing a college is to really take there time and waigh out the options. It is a very important choice and if a college is chosen that is not liked then it may affect the student, and he or she may not do as well as they would in one that they feel confortable with. One must keep in mind that atleast the next four years of there life and several thousands of dollers is finxing to take place at that college so it should be one that they will enjoy and suceed at.

Elizabeth

To some, the right college for a certain person is based on money, family education background, friends and social life, and/or convenience. While all these ARE important, the most important factor to consider is whether a school has the program that you are planning to go into (and has a good reputation in it). This is important because YOU are the one going to school, YOU are the one doing the work, and YOU will be the one making a career for the rest of your life in whichever area that you choose.

Karma

Find a worthy mentor

Ashley

Know what you want. Think about the location, student/teacher ratios, on-campus housing, activities, scholarships, and academic success.

LaKeshia

I would say to parents and/or students who are looking for the right college to not take for granted the "in-town" campuses. Yeah, students, you may think you're ready to get out on your own, but truth of the matter is if your not mature and responsible enough,college life can consume you. So make sure that you're ready to be out on your own before jumping out there and wasting alot of time and money. Also, to make the most of the college experience all you have to do is get involved in academically based groups as well as extra-curricular to help you balance your fun things and the more important things; you're education because thats what you're there for in the first place.

Jessica

In choosing a university, a student should research whether it offers good departments, faculty, and specific classes in all significant fields of interest so that the university can handle any changes in major the student may contemplate. The region and culture, both on campus and in the surrounding areas, should also be ones that the student feels will be conducive to growth and happiness. A student should choose a region that will provide them the optimum balance between freedom and security, which may mean a marginal or expansive distance from family, depending on circumstances. Scholarships and honors programs should be researched prior to starting at a university to avoid missing deadlines. And, though finances are important, if a college is better suited to the student?s needs, it may be worth the additional cost. Before attending any university, it is very important that a student feel ready. In the world as it currently is, the risk of never attending college is negligible, as advanced degrees are necessary for vocational security. Taking a year off may mean starting off as a productive student rather than needing to retake numerous classes to bring up a grade point average harmed by freshman partying.

Kristen

Always go with your first choice! Even if you have to take out loans, it will be worth it in the end.

justin

The advice I would give parents and/or students about finding the right college eperience would be to remember that this should be the funniest time of a young persons life injoy it.

Sabra

Great place to learn but be financially ready for it.

Tiffany

Make sure it's what you want.

Keith

Make sure you (or your kid) know what you want to do, or at least have a good idea of what you want to do after the first year. Many science degrees require alot of classes that are in succession, so there is not a whole lot of time to play "catch-up". If you have goals and determinations that will put you in a competitive field, do a little research and find out which schools are the best, and more well-known. If someone is looking at 50 resumes or maybe even more, that could make or break the deal.

Terilyn

My advise to a student about finding the right college is to visit the campus before making the decision to attend. It's so much better if you can visit more that once or twice just to get a feel of the environment. During these visits, I would suggest going to the science labs, the library, the student center and if you know your major before-hand, you should visit the department in which you plan to obtain a degree. Visit with some of the professors in that department and find out about intenships and ideas to work toward your career.

Ben

Students should find a school that has the best education for their preferred field. The obvious choice for a school is one that graduates can proudly display on their resume and be confident to launch into a career.

Krystle

Make your the size is good, the atmosphere is good, and the faculty is good. After that everything falls into place.

Taira

Take the time to sit down and carefully choose your college. Make sure you read about that particular college, tour that college campus, and even interact with some of the students that attend that college. Your college choice should be based on the quality of the professors and the quality of the school. Student activities are not near as important as the quality of education you receive in the classroom. You want to make sure you get a well-rounded, beneficial education, so that you can better succeed in your future.

Shane

Go with the right college the first time and stick with it. If you try to transfer you will only make the college experience harder on yourself. Go to several colleges to see what they are like, go without your parents and see if you can stay there without the aid of your parents, if not then find a different place. Dont make your decision based on money alone, there are tons of schoolarships and finacial aid available. Find the one you really like and go with it, and never let anyone tell you that you can't do it.