University of Arkansas Top Questions

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

Tayler

As I've switched majors twice, I would definitely encourage myself to look deeper into my major before starting my first semester. I don't regret that I didn't stay in the first two majors. In fact, I think the changes have only made firm in what I actually enjoy studying. Still, I can't help but wish I had known what Architecture -- my initial major -- was all about. I might have been open to more options in that case. :)

Elizabeth

If I could go back in time, there are several things I would tell myself. First, patience is virtue. Making the transition from high school to college was not only the hardest thing I've had to do, but the most stressful. Many times I found myself worked up over something small. Little things would ruin my day, and began to be unhealthy. Second, time management is the key to success. Once you have the freedom to do whatever you want, whenever you want, staying focused becomes difficult. Make a plan for yourself. Balance your time effectively between school work, social activities, work, and personal leisure. Keep in focus why you're in college and what you're there to achieve. Last, stay healthy. It's important to eat three meals a day. Even though the cafeteria offers a variety of yummy, yet unhealthy food, doesn't mean you have to eat it. I would tell myself to try and make healthy food choices. Also important, make a work-out schedule and stick to it. No one likes the reality of the "freshman fifteen." Transitioning to college can be tough, but a few pointers could make all the difference.

Rachel

While college may seem intimidating, don't become discouraged too quickly. Everyone on campus, including faculty and students are open and willing to help through any hard times or struggles. The students are very open minded and you will quickly find friends for life. Learn some time management, though, because social life can easily take over academics if you aren't careful. Take opportunities to grow and learn more than just in the classroom. These are going to be the best four years of your life, despite all the troublesome times. Live each day in the moment, because time flies way too fast. Don't go home too often, because you want some separation, but remember to talk to your family even when things are busy. Midterms and finals aren't as stressful as in the movies, just look from a broad perspective and you will see that there is more time to study than you think. Finally, have fun. College is for learning, but also for adventure and discovery. Look for an adventure every day!

April

Do not be in such a great hurry to "grow up"! The things you want to do as a grown up will still be there 5 years from now. Enjoy being a kid and doing things that kids do. I miss so much lying on my back in the grass and staring at clouds, finding dragons and sand castles. This time that you are spending in high school can never be replaced. Make the most of it! The friends you make in high school should be the strongest bonds you will ever have. Study hard, volunteer, dream of you career, but most of all, have fun, these truly are the best times of your life!

Hunter

Choosing the right college is one of the most important decisions a student and his/her parents will ever make. It can easily be argued that college provides the most exciting, challenging, and life changing experiences a student will ever encounter. Finding the right college comes down to finding a match with the idea that the family already has in their minds about what type of university they want to choose the minute they step on the campus. Quite simply, it should be a place that the student should be able to easily call "home".

Tyler

Research all of the colleges you think you would like to be at. See what they have to offer. Visit each one and after you've done all of this it should be an obvious choice.

Bridget

There are so many colleges to choose from out there. Choosing the correct one can be difficult for both parents and students. My passions are theatre and singing. I love to perform. At the same time I like sports a lot. My brother and father had me watching football and basketball very often. So I realized that the University of Arkansas Main Campus was the school for me. I am involved in the choir there and I attend all of the sporting events. The fans and students have so much school spirit there. So to choose the correct school, one must match their own personality to an institution. Doing this will make the college experience better for a student because they will be in an environment of their choosing. Also, in order to make the most of the college experience, it is important to become or remain open minded. Many different types of people attend college. I have met people from Jamaica and even Russia at my school. It is best to keep the open mind, and to balance academics and social activities in order to make the most of college and to succeed.

Lacey

Visit all types of campus'. You never know what type is right for you or your child, they may find that they enjoy the small-middle-of-nowhere calm rather than the booming, fast paced city University. Or one in between. Definitely listen to each others reviews and reactions to the colleges visited, they probably have valid points. When you do get into college, join clubs. They're the fastest, eastiest way to get involved and make friends. It doesnt really matte what type of group, really anything your interested in or that just sounds interesting is good. And if you dont like it, quit. there's no reason to be miserable and give up your time. It'll be hard at first, but you have to be outgoing, no matter your nature, or else the whole year or semester will be unbearable. Getting involved on campus is a great way to making the most of one's college experience. It was definitely the contributing factor that made it of broke it for me. And I'm returning this fall.

Alex

Don't worry too much about what school you go to because there are interesting teachers and students everywhere, so seek them out and don't be afraid to learn about things that you haven't interested you in the past. Be open minded and really think about what you are learning and how it affects the way you live.

Rebecca

Finding the right college is all about finding the place that you will be able to be yourself and express yourself in your own unique way. Dont choose a college based on its reputation or its student body size, choose a campus that will allow you to spread your wings and find yourself. Choose a campus that will support you not only academically, but socially as well and that is open to let you grow and learn openly with any social restrictions. Make the most of college by getting involved with everything you can, but yet be yourself. Dont be pressured to join a sorority/fraternity or to not join one. Dont be afraid to branch out. College is all about making friends for life and enjoying life. Go and out and find yourself.

Dominic

The most important part of any students college selecting process is actually getting out and on to the campuses which they are considering. I really implore all students to get out and visit multiple universities. I believe that I was swayed by my University because it was the only one I visited. However, college and the experiences you have are really dependant on you, the student.

Meredith

I think it is important for prospective students and their parents to sit down and discuss their options. Parents need to inform the student of their opinions, while remembering that it is not their own experience it is their children's. Students need to be realistic and understand that their parents usually do know what is best and can help them decide on the right fit for them. I feel it is very beneficial for parents and students to tour the campus' they're interested in pursuing. If money is an issue, it is crucial to realize this early on so the student can accomplish what they need to in high school in order to receive financial aid for college. Although not everyone ends up attending the school of their dreams, you can make the school the best experience by remaining open-minded and adaptable. There are great students and programs on every campus and the four years in college go by too fast to have a pity party.

DeMarquis

When deciding on the right college, I would advise students to visit college campuses so that they may assess which environment would be more conducive to their educational and personal well-being. The college visit allows prospective students to get the point-of-view of current students on the good and the bad that come with being a student at their respective schools. The visit also allows the family to meet faculty and advisors so they can assess how serious the institution is about placing the students' interest first. It's important that students choose an institution that will foster their interest both inside and outside the classroom; the college experience is about educational, cultural, and social enrichment. Whether one preferes to enhance their experience by joining a greek organization, participating in local volunteer opportunities, or starting a new student organization on campus, they should make sure that these opportunities will be available to them at their institution of interest. Overall, visiting the college and asking the appropriate questions is one of the best ways to ensure that prospective students don't get duped or disappointed by making a decision soley based on college information and pamphlets received via mail.

Cassandra

Take note of the sizes of the colleges and find a size that suites you. Don't feel like you have to have a career goal and/or major selected as soon as you get to college. Most people end up changing their majors at least once, so don't feel obligated to stick with something you don't enjoy. Take fun classes if you have time. If you enjoy tennis or art and don't plan on majoring in anything related to that, don't wory, take a tennis or art class for fun. Don't feel overwhelmed, there are tons of people going through the exact same things as you. Don't get so wrapped up in the social scene that you forget what your in school to do --learn. Don't schedule early classes your first semester, you might regret it later. Know that your teachers are there to help, they are not evil people who are out to get you. Go talk to your teachers if you are having trouble, just they fact that you came to them for help can give an advantage if you need one. The main thing is to have fun!

Holly

It's best to explore as many options as you can. I choose my college too quickly wished throughout my entire undergraduate career that I would have toured more colleges. Start your search early, visit as many places as you can, and don't feel like you have to pick anything immediately. You should take your time!

Cristina

I know it is very hard to find the best university, but my advice to parents of future students is to pick University of Arkansas at Fayetteville for the future of their children, because they will make the best choice in their life! For students I would recommend to get involved in extra-curricular activities on campus, as well as visit the Career Center at the university for more future job opportunities!

Timothy

Figure out what major interests you before reaching college, and then when you get there stay focused. The Times you put into your homework and studies will give you more self reward mentally and financially than anything wlse you will do while in school.

Justin

Spend time comparing the majors. Listen to what your child wants to do with their careers. Find the best fit of a school that offers majors which align with your childs goal. Encourage your child to spend at least one year in a dorm, this is where a lot of friends are made. Dorm life also helps prepare your child for living in off campus housing much better then jumping into an apartment from the beginning. Encourage the use of out of class help like school offered tutoring or extra study sessions. Stress the importance of your childs GPA for potential employers. Teach your child how to handle high levels of stress and how to be adequately prepared for each class.

Megan

I would tell parents and students to do their research. Most High Schools give students college days. Students should use these to their advantage. It may not seem "cool" to take mom and dad along, but most-likely mom and dad will be the ones footing the bills. So they should definitely be part of the decision making process. When students and parents visit the campuses, they should sit-in on a class. This will give the students a good feel of what class life is like for students at that particular school. Parents and students alike should use these visits as days to ask tons of questions. Both parents and students should sit down and make a list of questions that are important to them to ask students or faculty of the schools. Some of the questions should definitely involve academic life, social life, and financial aid.

xavier

Make sure that the place offers your major. Also check up on the teachers in that area. Overall, go where you would be happiest.

Anna

I believe that the most important thing about picking a college is to find the college that is right for you personally. It is easy to attend a college because your friends are going there. It is also easy to pick a school that your parents want or expect you to go to. But, if you go to any school for anyone else but yourself, you will not be happy there. It is so important to select colleges that you think cater to you as an individual, decide what your budget is, and then visit them. You will discover what is right for you. Once you find a school it is so important to be equally involved in both extra-curricular activities and socializing as it is schoolwork. Once you find a good balance of studying and building relationships, your college experience will heighten. Overall, to have the best college experience you can have, you need to stay true to yourself. Do not change for anyone. Always be yourself. Apply yourself to your schoolwork and never compromise your beliefs. That is the secret to success.

Lucas

where you feel confortabule

Janelle

First of all, you need to visit the campus, hopefully more than once. The campus and the people who are there will give you a good ideaof if you will like it or not. Try to picture yourself walking to class with those buildings surrounding you. Ask yourself if you like the scenery. I love nature so Arkansas was a great place for me to choose. Also, pay attention to what is surrounding your campus. Is it just a bunch of office buildings or are there things to do and places to go and hang out? Eventually you will not want to live on campus, so a good thing to look at is if there are a lot of places to live off campus and if those places are a good distance for you personally. Pay attention to the things you are interessted in; are those available on campus or close to it? These are just a few things to think about when you are looking for in you new home for the next four years.

Amy

Don't shy away from colleges where you'll know friends from high school. It's important to have a good support group while at school (both from parents and friends). Communication with your parents about academics and life in general is key to not getting overwhelmed - they've been through it before. There's never ONE college you're "supposed" to go to - as long as you apply yourself and step out of your comfort zone to connect with others you can make any college the best FOR YOU. Contrary to what you'll hear from most students, making the most of your college experience does NOT mean trying everything new and filling your life with extracurricular activities. Moderation in everything is key. Treat school as a full-time job and you'll get the most for your money.

Peggy

Live each day to the fullest, ask for help when you need it, have fun and enjoy your education!!!

Heather

A Chinese proverb states, "A single conversation with a wise man is better than ten years of study." Although I believe that the ten years of study at a university would be far more than adequate, I think it is important for the prospective students to take advantage of the resources that they have around them on a daily basis. Prior to attending college, one's most helpful tool for selecting a school will probably be the advice and comments of college students and alumni; however, the search for knowledge will not stop there. Once a student selects a school, he or she will probably need advice concerning majors, classes, housing, transportation, etc. My main piece of advice would be to seek out answers to the questions that you have. Everyone knows that college is one of the most stressful, yet exciting and wonderful experiences, in a person's life. I think it's important to not be constrained to the "stressful" side of things. Parents and students need to enjoy this time, and take advantage of every opportunity imaginable. The professors and others are there to help you, so make the most of the conversations with the wise men.

Katie

I feel that as long as the initial items you read about the university?s overall goals and a visit to campus did not make you turn away in fear or shock, you can make a place for yourself on any number of campuses. Which one best fits? If you don't have an initial gut instinct about what university would be best for you to attend, in all honesty, I'm not certain that there is ONE university which will suit you perfectly on the surface. Part of the idea of a college education, is not just to learn what you need for a career in the classroom, but also to carve out a corner for yourself in whatever situation you find. Life contains surprises of all kinds, and imagining yourself at another college while still attending is difficult because you meet people and form bonds with people like yourself (whom may not be at their ideal school either). They become your friends, your partners, and it becomes hard to imagine your life without them. In reality, any university you choose is a separate path that has unforeseen consequences; embrace what/whoever you can while you are in school.

Dylan

It really does not matter where you go, college is what you make it. Retain your focus dont get dragged into badness and stay motivated through hard times.

Laura

The first year in school, do not associate with social clubs unless you have a grasp of solid time management. The school sprit at this school is awesome, and everyone gets along well.

Cory

Do the best you can in everyclass, because this University will help you get where ever you need to get in life. The friends you make here will last you a lifetime and nothing that you have the option to get into should be turned down because everything will help you in the long run. The faculty will help you get where ever you need to go, or want to go that's just how they are: willing, helpful, and there. In the end you will be more than thankful for going to the University of Arkansas, its a bargain for you money. Proffesors put in more than anywhere I've ever been. This university is a great university.

Courtney

Put yourself out there; get involved with whatever you are interested in! There are tons of clubs to join whatever your academic affiliation is. Let people know you are there!

Courtney

My advice would be to not take it too seriously. Do your best and do well, but don't think that your whole life rides on how you do. College will be over before you can blink anyway, so don't waste it by worrying. Just live your life and enjoy it to the fullest. By finding a balance between work and play in college, you will be better off for the rest of your life and more prepared for what is to come. The bottom line is, don't take it too seriously.

Brittany

Make sure to diversify your options when applying to schools. Have a good proportion of dream schools, middle-ground schools, and safe schools. Be sure to check out what each of the schools typically offer when it comes to financial aid, because this will have the most bearing on where you get to go. Look into what each school's areas of study have to offer, and make sure that it will be able to accomodate your idea for a major. Check out what the core curriculum for the school , to make sure it lines up with your idea of a general education. Make sure that the school's credits are transferrable so that, should you switch schools, you can take your hard earned credits with you. Look into job opportunities in and around campus (this is helpful for students paying their way and those picking up extra cash). And also, if you're going to live on campus, do a little research on the different living environments. As a freshman, you might not have much say, but be sure to be informed with what little say you do have.

David

Think about what you want to do after you get out of college. You don't have to have a specialized degree to get a job most companies just want you to have a degree. Study something you enjoy and your experience will be much more fulfilling. Get involved with a group on campus, college life isn't all about being greek, there are many places to go and things to do. Explore the town your college is located in, find out if there are any parks or lakes around. Keep tabs on any concerts or shows the university puts on, usually there will be some good ones.

Justin

To make the most of every college experience you must become involved in campus politics, intramural activities, clubs, everything. The problem you run into with being involved in everything is managing time and your GPA. You want to live with or near friends or possible friends. The dormitories are great because they remove many responsibilities that would otherwise cause conflict. Look for a University that has a large enough campus that can provide most basic requirements (long cafeteria hours, proper study space in Student Unions or Library, a safe environment for you to walk around at night). You will stay up late, that is something you must understand (12am-5am). There are tricks to everything when you are in college. If you live in the dorm then leave your door open as much as possible, attend the Friday night activities that the school sponsors (volunteer if possible). Basically what I am trying to say in a finite amount of words is to get out and meet people, become active on and off-campus, try to get along (mainly with roommates), be careful, and research (everything from what not to do in a dorm to how you are suppose to study).

Shashank

Study hard and also have a good social life.

Margaret

Finding the right college depends on what you want your EXPERIENCE to be like. I chose Arkansas because it has a breath-taking campus, HUGE football & sports, and a predominant Greek system. These three things are what I think of when I think about college. It's very traditional and conservative, which I like too. I am from Dallas and am more liberal than a lot of people here, but it's the experience of the 'culture shock' that made me learn how to tolerate other kinds of people. And I think I taught them a thing or two also :-)

Stephen

The important thing is that one is dedicated from the beginning. I learned that the hard way. High school was a breeze for me. After started college and approaching it in a similar fashion, I soon discovered that it would not be as easy. After not taking my classes seriously the first year, I received my first C ever. That was hard for me, knowing that I could easily have done better. A student searching for the right college needs to find something that they would love, something that they are truely interested in and something that they are willing to dedicate time to. College is not as easy as high school. One must dedicate time to it in order to be successful. That is a whole lot easier when you love what you are doing. So I would suggest making your desicion based off of what you want to do with your life and what school will most help you reach those goals. And then from the beginning, give it your all, dedicate yourself 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} to successfully completing what you have commited to for those next few years. You will be so much happier. Your future depends on it!

Thomas

Consider the type of people who go to school at a college you're considering. Hendrix may have an excellent academic reputation, but if you don't drink, there will be very little for you to do recreationally. For this reaon, it is very important to visit the schools you are considering. In the case that no schools seem to be bursting with people who you would want to be around, remember that the larger the school, the more people there will be that you like, and the easier it is to avoid those you don't. Just be sure that you don't go to a school so large that it's impossible to get any attention from professors in academic matters.

Clinton

If you do not know what career you want to work in after college, go find the college information for a large university on a website like FastWeb. Most division I schools should work for my suggestion. Using the website, find the list of majors for a large school and go down the list. If you do not know what career that major can go into, research it. After you decide on majors and/or careers that interest you, check local schools, instate schools, neighbor state schools, and any other schools that you may be interested in attending. With a major in mind, you can now research the schools online, through friends, and alumni that you may know.

Brooks

The main thing a student needs to consider when he or she is trying to select a college is that you have to make the decision for yourself. There are so many great universities around the country and it is important that a person picks the one that he or she feels the most comfortable in. This school may be down the street from your house or hours away. I would strongly suggest visiting many schools and getting tours of the campuses and going to the athletic events to get a good feel for the school. Also, a student needs to take into consideration how hard it is to leave your parents for some. Even if you arent really close to your parents, it is different not getting to see them at all anymore. But, that being said sometimes its not a bad idea to get a little ways away from home and learn to make it on your own. Make sure you visit home but also spend weekends at the university and get a full grasp of the college life because after all, you only get four years (tentatively) to just have fun.

Rachel

Choose a college that fits your interests and that will best cater to your academic needs, but also step out of your comfort zone. I have always lived in a small town of 1,000 people and went to a small college for two years. I then transferred to the U of A in Fayetteville. I did not think I would like the size because it was so much bigger than I expected. However, I ended up loving the size and atmosphere and enjoy attending college there! Sometimes, by taking a chance, you end up making the best decision and get much more out of the experience than you could have ever imagined.

Nicole

Be open to other options. I originally wanted to go to school on the west coast but I ended up loving Arkansas.

Nancy

Go where you will be happy and not just where is ranked higher!

Brittany

Just make sure that you really know as much as possible about the school that you are picking. Parents be supportive of your student especially when they are overwhelmed with school work. Students find the right balance bn personal and social and work aspects.

Mark

Apply and visit as many schools as you can. Dont just go on tours of campus hang out with the people that go there and get their points of veiw of the school. Get as involed as you can, dont sit around on your butt and expect for things to happen to you you have to make things happen yourself. Be open to many new things your life will change dramatically.

Emily

The advice that I would give parents and students about choosing a college is make sure you allow the person going to school to make the decision. I understand parents that you went to a certain school, but like your kid decide. It is ultimatly their next four years and an unhappy child will not do as well in school. Also, go and visit the school that you are planning on attending. Go over all the cons and pros of each school, is it to far away, to close, to large, to small, and the list go on and on. You really need to be certain about what is right for you.

Michael

Students need to go into college with an open mind, and their parents need to nuture exploration in their children. It is impossible to have learned every opinion and mindset available before entering college, so students need to be flexible and willing to listen to the opinions of others and weigh ideas carefully. Following the crowd is useless the student is moving in a direction that they do not truly believe in. Parents need to explain to their children that having an open mind to new ideas is crucial for the formation of a well-rounded individual. A college or university that provides students with a variety of experiences and teachers, a safe, effective learning environment, and oppurtunities for a positive and healthy social life should be selected. In the end, the mindset and attitude of the student and parents will have a much larger impact on the overall effectiveness of the students' college education than the school selection. If a student goes into college hoping to learn and expand his or her horizons, then the result of the education will most likely result in the formation of a happier, more complete, and better functioning individual.

Vesta

To find the right college you should research all the ones you are interested in and then look at the course work and degree plans they have to see if they fit your wants. Then after that narrows it down look to see if the activities you love to do can be done there and if the campus life at a particular college is what you would want to be involved with. Also keep in mind the distance from home to college and where you would live while attending college. Looking to see how much financial aid you have available is another big way to decide if a college is good for you. Know that you probably wont find a college that fits all of your expectations but make sure to prioritize your expectations and base your decision on that. Viewing the college campus' and talking to some of the professors can help decide which place you like better.

Caitlin

The most important thing, at any school you choose, is to form and maintain strong relationships with friends and family. No matter what lies ahead, friends and family will always be there for you when you need it the most. Also, take things one step at a time, life will always go on. Do not bite off more than you can chew, just take a minute to breathe, relax, and enjoy the great experiences, and learn from bad choices that you or those close to you have made. No one is perfect, don't expect yourself or those around you to be. Get involved and give back to your community. If you feel the need to complain about something, volunteer in that area so that others will have a better experience. Reach out, there are very few people in this world that don't appreciate kind words and friendship. Follow your heart, always. Only you can know what is best for you, if you follow your heart, prioritize, and stay true to yourself- you will blossum into a mature, healthy, and happy student.