University of Connecticut Top Questions

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

Charlotte

Make sure you look at the text book and read the chapters, rather than thinking that going to class will teach you what you need to know. Just because professors give you their slides, doesn't mean all the information is there (and that it will make sense). Study at the library with people studying the same things, and ask plenty of questions along the way. Quiz yourself often, as it will test your actual knowledge and ability to recall information.

Marissa

I am completely satisfied with how I made the transition, I was born to be a UConn Husky. My advice to future students is to come in enthused. Be excited to be away from your old life, be excited to have the resources and the opportunity to learn from the greatest pool of knowlege you will most likely ever have. It is a wonderful thing to take advantage of your campus, attend as many cultural events as possible, join a fraternity or sorority, run for student government, do service work, study abroad. Enrich your life while you still have the chance! Take advantage of your campus and reap the benefits before we have to go out into the real world and sit in a cubicle for the next thirty years.

Jared

I would give myself the advice to not worry as much about the transition. It's not as bad as you think it's going to be.

Lindsay

I would tell myself that I am capable of anything as long as I put my mind to it. I would tell myself that the transition is at times hard, but you have to put yourself out there and take advantage!

Jonathan

I would tell myself that getting your applications in early before the 1st waves of deadlines is very important. Also to enjoy the homecooking before college begins, because it is extremely hard to feed yourself for each meal of each day. The meal plan works for the dorm but eating at the same Dining Room for a whole year can get unbearable. Practice things like doing laundry and cleaning your own house. Never pick early classes when choosing your schedule, and classes too late aren't too fun either. Try and get a dorm that was built or refurbished or remodeled in this decade. Bring a intsrument, books, lots of DVDs. Label everything you have because stealing as well as mooching friends become quite the problem. Try not to get stuck paying for things like cable and internet. School isn't too bad if you can get to class. Rushing may have been something to do if I had a second freshman year.

Timothy

I would get to know myself better, so it would be easier to show people who i am.

Kathryn

I would remind myself that I *love* science, and my highschool advisor doesn't know what he's talking about when he says I should get into English. Also to sweat the small stuff, and to stay *far* away from online dating.

Jessica

If I could go back in time to myself as a senior in high school, I would have told myself to stay in JROTC my senior year, and get that scholarship to college. I would have told myself to go for my Veterinary Technician degree, and then apply to UConn. Do your best, that is what really matters, and make sure no matter what you do, that you do it for yourself, and not for anyone else. Please yourself first, because it is your life, not anybody else's. If you don't quite get where you wanted to get, it's okay, and I would remind myself not to get stressed out about a B instead of an A, it isn't then end of the world. My biggest lesson has been learning to RELAX, and try for an A and be happy with a B....as long as I do my best, then I accomplished something!!

Grace

I had a great high school experience socially and academically. I definitely felt prepared for college life, but if given the opportunity to tell the "high school Grace" something, I would tell myself to take advantage of every opportunity possible. The sayings "you only live once" and "life is short" are two things I?ve found to be incredibly true. I try my best to live my life without regrets, but there are definitely opportunities in high school and even during my freshman year of college that I wish I took. It is crucial for any high school student transitioning to college to keep an open mind and to realize the importance of meeting new people and networking. It took me a full semester into my freshman year to start making those connections and for that reason, I wish I knew the value of making new friends ahead of time, so I could have established my social life a lot quicker.

danielle

I think I would ask tell myself to really get involved in the community and the school. I always went to football games and other sporting events. However I now understant how important it is to be apart of school activities and make connections for jobs and other future plans. I wouldn't say spend more time on schoolwork because that can only get you so far in life. Even though working hard in school is important, I believe it's more important to see what the world has to offer while still in a school environment. College only lasts a few years and the people that you meet can have a great influence on your life. So it's vital to do everything that you can and if you can't do it find a way to make it happen!

natasha

While there is still time during your senior year, apply to as many scholarships as possible. Worrying about where your next tuition check is going to come from can really take a toll on you emotionally and how you perform in school. Also, once you step foot on campus you may feel a little homesick for about the first week or so (it is nice to have someone to call).You are living on your own for the first time?you can go out whenever you want and you don?t have anyone nagging you to do your work. That is fun and cool but you quickly have to learn time management and organization skills?no one is going to remind you of when a homework assignment is due.I recommend making friends with similar interest and that have a similar major. You tend to have a similar schedule and they can help keep you on track.It is extremely easy to get caught up in the party lifestyle. Don?t drink or engage in any drugs. You will regret a lot that you do when under the influence. You do not want to be known as ?that girl.?

laura

Many say that high school was the best years of their lives. That is completely wrong. I've only been in college for 1 year now and it is already so much better than the four years I spent in high school. I have learned to become more independent and responsible. Going back in time, I would tell myself to focus more on school and take my job seriously. College is very expensive but it is worth it in the end. I would let myself know that all those people who mocked me for being diverse in the friends I chose to hang out with were wrong. It's good to talk to people of different backgrounds than myself and I am glad I did not let myself get sucked into the world where it is shameful for an African American to interact with other races. At school, we were told to talk to everyone especially those who we wouldn't normally.

Meaghan

Consider everything, write a list of criteria and don't give up until you've found the matching school. Once you've decided on a school stick with it and get involved in order to make the best of it and force yourself to not want to leave or change schools if thats the case.

Christopher

There are many important qualities that require consideredation when selecting an appropriate school. First, it is important to find a school that will stimulate you academically and socially. This is important because as a student you want a school that will make you a well-rounded individual. Further, it is important to consider your career plans when selecting a school. For example, if you want to major in business, then you want to apply to schools suited to meeting your career ambitions. Class size is another important factor to consider when selecting schools. This is important because if you don't fare well in larger classes, then you would clearly want to avoid attending schools with 20,000 people. Cost is another important factor due to our current economy. It is important to consider the value of you education you will receive based on what you will be paying. Finally, it is important to pick a school that you like. As you will hopefully become a key component in the school's community, you should pick a school that makes you feel comfortable and successful. If you are provided with a positive environment at school, you undoubtedly will succeed.

Gretchen

A lot of colleges offer similar acedemic choices. I think the key to being happy at school is finding a place you want go to based on the people and the campus.

Sara

Use a well established and respected college search engine, such as CollegeBoard.com, to help match colleges with interests and needs. Once you have a few suggestions, practice navigating those university websites so you can do some searching of your own. Visits and tours are a must, but speaking with the current students can also provide valuable information and insight. Take it easy the first semester. By enrolling in courses that are interesting, but not particularly challenging, you can focus on easing the transition from home to college life by developing effective study skills and balancing social life with academic work; a good head start is not only impressive, but confidence building. After the first year, look for opportunities that make learning more fun and exciting. Internships and study abroad programs are beneficial to both those on a career path and undecided majors. Finally, if things are not working out, transferring somewhere else is always a smarter alternative to dropping out: nobody regrets completing a college degree.

Mallory

Attending college is a very special opportunity. Prospective college students should be sure to visit potential schools and select one that feels like it could be called home. Essentially, college is a student's second home and so it should feel comfortable. I worked as an orientation leader at my university for two summers, and the thing that I consistently told incoming students and their parents was the importance of getting involved in university life. A college diploma is invaluable, but outside of class experiences are a chance for true personal growth and help to shape one's development. I recommend that students take advantage of the different clubs and organizations that their school has to offer.

Samantha

Be ready to have fun and to learn a lot from the great staff here at UCONN.

Jamie

Picking the right college is a very personal choice. Help is always needed but in the end it should be the person who is attending the school that has the overall decision on whether to attend or not.

Rachel

Don't limit yourself to the school that has the highest ranking or is the most prestigious. Each university specializes in something and a school with a lower ranking may cater better to your needs rather than a school of a higher tier. Weight the pros and the cons, and take a chance. You may surprise yourself by picking the best opportunity ever.

Ashley

To parents: don't tell your kids where they should go to college because its financially easier or because the school appeals to you, let your child decide what is best for them. Students- be outgoing and push yourself to try new things and be open or new experiences whether it be an activity you've never been involved in or a person you normally wouldn't consider your type.

Amy

First and foremost, the most important aspect is to keep an open mindset. Take the time to learn about all aspects of a college including extracurriculars, the student body, the surrounding location, and academic requirements. Don't rule out a school just because of your initial impression; you may find the school has qualities that appeal to you if you delve more deeply. Once you've found the right school, it is important to become involved. Join any and all clubs or organizations that may interest you. However, it's a great idea to reach outside of your comfort zone and become involved in something that you would not join normally. Best case scenario, you find a new hobby to add to your list of interests. Worst case scenario, even if the club isn't right for you, you have exposed yourself to a whole new group of people that may become potential friends throughout your college career. Last but not least, be mindful of keeping a balance between your academics, social life, and extracurricular activities. Keeping a healthy balance of each of these things is key to obtaining a fulfilling college experience. Have fun and word hard!

Shannon

The best advice that I would give parents and student about finding the right college is to do your research and to visit many different college campuses to see what you like best. I know from personal experience that it was a tough decision finding the right place for me, but my campus tour definitely helped. The best advice I have for students when they get to school (aside from always studying hard) is to put yourself out there--try new things, meet new people, and join as many clubs as you can. You may be surprised at what new activity you might fall in love with--for me, it was marching band.

Julie

Explore a lot of different options because what you think you want may not be what you really end up wanting in the end. Make sure to try to visit the schools you are applying to so you can get a true feel for them. Go in to school with a positive attitude, excited to meet tons of different people from all around. Be yourself and use this experience to learn more about yourself and not imitiate the "trends" or what seems "cool" or "in." Have fun on the weekends but make sure to leave enough time for your school work because in the end, that is what you are at college for and doing well in your academics will lead you a great life in the futrue. Be excited because college can be the greatest experience of your life if you go into it with the right attitude.

Amanda

Go to the college or university that makes you feel like you can be you, not what your friends or your parents want you to be. When you find that college, do what you can to make the most of it. Join clubs, sports teams, school organizations. Get involved. So when you finally graduate, you will have not only memories to look back on, but experience working with different types of people, doing so many different things. And don't let anyone pressure you into doing what you don't want to do. Be your own person. Like the things you want to like. You will have a fun and successful life if you just be your own person, and don't let anyone try to take your dreams away from you.

Felicia

Make sure that you are going to be comfortable going to the school because this will be your home away from home. Also, make sure that you are going to benefit both educationally and socially at the school, because it will greatly contribute to your success.

Stephanie

Go and visit the colleges before hand taking a tour is a great way to find out if the school is right for you

Clarissa

The first few things that come to mind when trying to select a college are: money, location, academic reputation, and social life. Though all aspects should be considered, it really depends on what a person wants to put into the experience. For example, an individual can not attend a large school with numerous of extracurricular opportunities and expect to suddenly have many friends or social groups. That person should join a few clubs or form some study groups with some other students in a large class to be able to make some friends and to enjoy the social life that the school has to offer. Doing so will open up many new doors and create a more comfortable environment for the new student. It is tough to find a balance between doing homework and studying while trying to socialize and feel as if you belong to a group. Keeping this in mind, creating a study group could serve as a stepping stone to be outgoing. Although money, location, and academic reputation are key factors in determining an appropriate college choice, the individual should expect to get back what he or she gives in.

Wendy

Visit the school and attend a class or two that you would take if you attended the school! This is the best way to find out if you really like being there, and if you could picture yourself as a student there. Also, to make the most of the college experience, remember that you are in school for the classes, and do your absolute best academically. Make sure to also attend parties with your friends, give back to the community that you share with, and make time to do the things you really like, such as playing basketball or joining and quilt-making club. Be outgoing any way you can - like meeting peers, or starting a club, or even just raising your hand in class. You never know what will look good on a resume or what teacher you may want to write a recommendation. In fact, you may discover what you really want to do with the rest of your life by stretching beyond your comfort zone! So go ahead, if you have never had the chance to ride a horse, sign up for riding lessons. College is for learning, and learning who you are.

Tiffany

As a student applies to various colleges and universities, it is important to look for a campus that will provide a student with a major that has everything that the student is looking for. Each college has different resources and opportunities to present its students with. The availability of professors and extra help on campus is very important. Especially for a new student entering college, the student may become overwhelmed. In that situation, you will want to be able to talk with a mentor or professor to asure that the coursework does not become unbearable. It is also a good idea to look for a college that has a background of students that form study groups. Study groups are a great way to stay on top of schoolwork, while bonding with fellow classmates at the same time. I believe that the campus social life is equally as important as the education the student is receiving. The more clubs and activities a school has to offer, will encourage the student to become involved and make new friends. Building friendships in college will help the student to feel more at home and will eliminate the feelings of homesick.

Nicole

Ever since I began to develop interest in the arts, I found myself being constantly discouraged and ridiculed because most believe there is no future in the field. I always did well in school but never had an interest in it. Now that I've moved past these obstacles I have a new passion and desire to learn. I truely believe it is because I not only chose to ignore those who discouraged me, but also used that as fuel to push myself harder to prove myself. I now absolutely love the school I chose and I'm glad I never settled. I have seen one too many friends leave school because they were miserable doing work for classes they didnt have an interest in. Therefor my best advice would be to choose a school and a major that you feel strongly about because you as a student are the only one that is stuck with that major and that career. As for parents, always encourage your child to do what they love and experiment in different areas and activities. Being discouraged by a parent is the worst feeling in the world when it comes to doing what you love.

Rachel

Do it yourself. These three words are the best instructions a college applicant can receive. Choosing the right college is essential to a successful four years of education, and a student is most likely to apply to schools that best match their interests if they do it themselves. Tidbits of advice from parents never hurt; however, parents shouldn't control where children apply, and it is of utmost importance that the final decision of what school to attend is made by the student, and the student alone. Once the transition from highschool to college is made, these words of advice only gain importance. If a student is calling home each day asking what to eat, what clubs to join, or even asking for help on papers, they'll never gain true independence, which is what the college experience is supposed to embody. Students must figure everything out themselves. By choosing activities for pleasure rather than those reccommended for a resume, they learn identity. By approaching professors for help, they develop important relationships with adults who can help them reach career goals. By not confiding everything in parents, new friends will come more easily. Doing it yourself is all it takes.

Erin

In order to find the right college to attend, it is best to visit the different colleges you are considering to decide which campus offers the best for you.

Julie

Finding the right college can be difficult, but doing research about colleges that interest someone, and then visiting those colleges to see if the campus is right. I think visiting the college is one of the most important parts of choosing a college. A college might seem great on paper or online, but visiting the campus can really help in making the right decision. When you visit the campus, you can see the dorms, talk to the students, and see the academic buildings as well. Visiting my college campus really helped me make my decision. The best advice I could give a student in making the most of their college experience would be to get involved. No matter what school someone goes to, there are sure to be plenty of activities to be a part of. Whether it is an on campus job, community service, a religious organization, band, choir, clubs, sports teams, Greek Life, or a mentor program, getting involved is a great way to learn time management, meet new people, and make some great friends as well. Getting involved on my campus has made my college experience so much better than I ever thought it could be.

Casey

The advice that I would give to parents and/or students regarding finding the right college and making most of the experience would vary in many ways. Choosing the right college relies 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} on the student, what their needs are, what their desires are, and what their hopes for the future are. If a student likes a close, tight knit community, then a smaller college should be the one to choose. If a student wants to expand their horizons, meet many new people, experience a larger campus, then a larger college should be the one to choose. When visiting a college, I knew right away if it was the one for me, and like other students, I'm sure this happens for them too. On a campus tour, a student can tell immediately if they can see that place as a new home and whether they will fit in there or not. Overall, picking the right college depends solely on the student and their needs. There are thousands and thousands of great universities across the globe, and the possibility of finding the right college to suit one's needs is incredible.

Alyssa

If I were to talk to an incoming freshman, there are a few pieces of advice I would be sure to give him I would be sure he knew that it is critical to put yourself out there the moment you get to school in order to meet people. Be yourself, don?t be what others want you to be or you will find out right away you?re mixing with the wrong group. Go to class. There is only one way to find out what your professor is like as an instructor and a grader. Don?t go into the exam after attending only a few lectures and fail because you had no idea what was expected of you. Class is important, but so is the work outside of class. Don?t wait until the night before a paper is due to start it. Professors are willing to help, for the most part, as long as you contact them a few days before the deadline. Last, I would tell an incoming freshman that college is a great part of life. Don?t spend every Friday night at the library. Get out there and let loose after a long week.

Jessica

Submerge yourself completely, this is the time to be your own person and learn what you are capable of. No one is behind you breathing down your neck telling you what to do, it can be overwelming... but if you are determined, you will do great things in life.

Ashley

Being flexible and being intentional are the two keys to happiness and success in college. If you learn to take the good with the bad you'll always be happy with your choice. No school will be completely perfect for you both academically and socially, your college years are what you make them. The more things you involve yourself in, the more satisfying your college experience will be, thats why it is important to find a school that offers a wide range of extr-curricular activities. On the same token, if you know what you want, intentionally seek it out. Take the classes that will give you the most valuable experiences, not just the easy A. Be involved in the activities that translate well to a resume or career experience. It's not enough to be just an advanced student anymore, you need to be a well-rounded individual. Most importantly, have fun. College really is the best four years of your life, so take time to enjoy the things you do and the different people you meet.

Clarice

When looking for the right college it's very important to do your research. When I was trying to decide what school to attend, I made a list of pros and cons for each school to help organize my thoughts. If possible, attend a tour and don't be afraid to ask questions. Some schools allow potential students to shadow current undergraduates to get a feel of college life. There are many resources available online and in your local bookstore that can help you make your decision. Overall, it's helpful to know what you are looking for and how you would like to benefit from your education. Make the most of your college experience by taking advantage of the resources that the school provides. Resources may include: Writing Center, Quantitative Center, Career Services, Study Abroad Office, on campus museums, Health Services, Recreation Center, Community Outreach, and more. If your ever find that there is a service or club that the school does not provide, you can start it yourself and become the founder of a new organization. Students and parents should always remember that the school is there is to serve you and that your voice is valued.

Julie

I think the best thing for a student to do when picking a college to go visit schools before you apply. You may think that a school is going to be perfect for you, but if you don't visit before, you could find out too late that you don't like the campus or the students on campus. Visiting the campus is so crucial because you can get a feel for what the school is really like, you can see the current students on campus, and possibly even talk to them to get their view of the school. Obviously choosing the right major and program is extremely important as well, but if you don't like the campus you're studying at, I don't believe a student will get the most out of their college experience. I think a student's experience in college depends on what they put into it. If a person gets involved in activities on campus and tries to make new friends, then they will have a great college experience. There are so many amazing opportunities at universities that there is something for everyone. Making the college experience good is up to the person.

Salina

I would say to definately make a few trips up to the school to become familiar with the atmosphere and make sure it's somewhere where your kid would be able to not only excel, but fit in and feel at home. Also, just because a school is a little out of your price range isn't really reason to eliminate it immediately because there are always scholarships/aid/loans to help you out and if it's somewhere your child will be really happy, it is definately worth it, since there's nothing worse than a student that is miserable at a school but feels like their stuck there. And once your kid is in, it's important to make sure they get involved inside and outside of the class because althought academics should be the focus, their entire lives can't revolve around just studying and there is alot more to the experience than books, all of which they will miss out on otherwise.

Matthew

Live on campus.

sierra

Really take the time to visit the schools you are interested in, be sure to go on a guided tour of every campus, it makes it easier to compare the schools. Also, prepare any and all questions you have before you go to visit, so you get as much as possible out of your experience. and it also can be used to compare the schools you are interested in. Make sure you find schools that are diverse in their academics. Although you may think you know what you want to do, it changes as you are exposed to a greater variety of majors and careers. And once you find the college of your choice, get involved as much as possible, try new things, take advantage of everything the school has to offer, you're paying for it, so use your resources! Academics come first, but don't be afraid to get the most out of your experice. Have as much fun as possible and experience as much as you can, college goes by so fast and you don't want to miss a second of it!

Renee

The one thing that I would tell students about finding the right college, is to make sure that this is the best college that fits you. Don't worry about what other people want, because at the end of the day, you are the one that will be attending the school. Make sure you do research and try different types of schools. Visit a big school, a small school, a religious school, a school in the city, a school in the country, and anywhere else you can think of. You never know what feels like home until you've seen it all. When you start attending the school of your choice, make sure you live each day to its potential. Remember that your academics come first, but also look into things that are out of your comfort zone. Try new things and meet new people. You have the opportunity that a lot of people wish they had. Study hard and have fun!

Allison

Don't let money be a factor, scholarships are given and it just takes time to find the best ones. Try to be well rounded.

Amanda

When looking for a school, remember that you will be spending most of your time there for atleast two years. The student should choose the school that they love, and that supplies them with everything that they need to be happy and productive. When attending school, give yourself a chance to make friends, and while you may begin to miss your family and home by the first weekend there, resist the temptation to go home. Take the time to get to know the new people around you. However, do not let your work fall behind with all of the new freedoms that you have. The worst thing for a first year college student to experience is falling behind in their work, and not being able to catch up because they were having too much fun. On the other hand, it is important to remember that you do need time to relax and unwind, and it is okay to take a break sometimes!

Samantha

i would advice students to pick at least 5 schools to choose from this way if your first choice ...doesnt accept you you have a few more to choose from. i would also advise students to sit down with their parents and talk openly about which school they want to go to and why. to the parents i would advise them not to badger their child into picking a school to which they really do not want to go to just because mom and dad went there. they are not going to college their child is and they are the ones that should have the choice in which school they want to attend. students should be the ones communicating with the school not mom or dad. students should be the ones to take over their own lifes once they are in college. its all part of becoming an adult and it will make college life more pleasant doing things for yourself

Danielle

RELAX!! Take your time and familiarize yourself with all the wonderful options out there. Take the time to research scholarships, grants, and all resources available to help make your college experience one of the best in your life. There is so much help available to you....don't be afraid to ask for it. You will find the right fit for you.

Lindsey

Dont be afraid to travel, leave the comfort zone of your own town, your own state and really look around out there to find the school that suits you. If you are concerned about leaving your old friends and family when you go off to college, this is understandable. But the truth is, after high school everyone goes seperate ways and whether you stay in state or move out state once you move onto your campus you will be surrounded by an entirly new group of people and a new set of priorities will evolve naturally. So if you can, why not make this move to an entirely new environment. It is really important to move around at this time of your life, to begin gaining a valuable wisdom by letting exposing yourself new persepectives and lifestyles becaue at this point you are backed financialy byscholarships and loans and free responsiblilties that keep you from being able to up and travel. So if you grew up in Maine where the winters are long and cold and have always longed to be in a sunshine state, dont hold back yourself back keep your range open, the sky is the limit

Michael

Make sure that the college offers many different majors/ activities to accomodate any change of interests while in school. Transferring is a burden and sometimes can cause a student to graduate later because of transfer credits. Also make sure the school can offer good academic standards and is an accredited university. When in school get involved and meet people, because they can be a big help getting through the transition to independence.