University of Delaware Top Questions

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

Laura

Focus on what will make you happy and what will give you the greatest benefits in the long run.

Chelsea

The best and only advice I would ever give to a perspective student would be to follow your heart and visit each and every school of interest. The main reason I chose the University of Delaware is because once I visited, I felt completely comfortable with the students. I'm a firm believer that you can never completely know how you would like the school until you spend some time on the campus. In order to make the most of any college experience, students have to feel at home at their school. They should get as involved as they can with any and all student groups that interest them as well, in order to meet a diverse group of new people.

Brian

There is only one thing that makes an institution truly remarkable, its people. The Professors and faculty at Delaware are truly amazing people. Professors are very accessible and generally care about the students and their well being. I had a professor freshmen year who called the 3 freshmen out one day in class to come to his office hours. I was a nervous wreck, was I failing?, did he suspect me of plagiarism?, what in the world could this professor want with 3 measly freshmen in a class of 70. It turns out that all my history professor wanted was to see how we were doing. How we were adjusting to life at the University and if there was anything he could do to help. So in thinking back on making a decision in where to go to college, yes consider price, location, majors, etc. but most of all make sure to visit the University and get a feel for the people who actually run the operation. Words cannot express how important people are to making a University successfull and it is pertainant for one to take as many opportunities as possible to meet and interact with everyone at college.

Julie

Do as much research as possible and be sure to visit the school. Talk to kids that go there already

Molly

Finding the right college is a tough process. One of the best things you can do is visit the campuses you are interested in. Getting a sense of the size of the campus, the buildings, and the student body are very helpful in making your decision. Sitting in on a class and getting a tour by a student are also very helpful. As for making the most of the college experience, the most important thing is to find a balance between school work and social activities. Spending too much time on school work can leave you stressed and depressed. On the other hand, spending too much time on social activities can have a negative impact on your GPA. Keeping in mind that your grades affect your future (for internships, student teaching, research, etc) is crucial, but so is having a social life. The best way to improve your social life is getting involved on campus. Joining a club, team, or greek organization are great ways to meet new people, network, and make the campus feel smaller.

Michelle

After being on a college campus I've realized that I probably could have fit it on many other campuses. My biggest mistake while looking for the right college was thinking that it had to be the exact size and in the perfect location. Although those things are still important, students will grow as they are in college and priorities that may have been important to them in high school are no longer top on their list in college. As long as they make an effor to get involved with their campus and have an urgency to succeed academically, many schools will be right for them. In order to narrow down schools in the process I suggest actually going to the school and spending a day on campus . It will help you to know what kind of people you'll be surrounding yourself with, if the climate is right for you and it may even feel "right" or "wrong" as soon as you step foot on campus. Just keep an open mind.

Lynn

Finding a college that "feels right" can sometimes be a tough decision and should be made wisely. You choose a university based on many things, namely its academics, but also the campus environment because, while the quality of education is paramount, so too is your student's happiness on campus. The University of Delaware has accomplished superiority in both: the academics are challenging, thought-provoking, and stimulating, and the environment is one of Academia where students are driven and intelligent, but equally open and friendly. I must have visited around fifteen to twenty colleges and universities throughout highschool, and when I first visited the University of Delaware, I had that feeling that I just "fit" somehow, like this was the right place for me. Many of the teachers are well-known scholars, experts in their fields. The social aspect of this university is very understanding and flexible: there are over 300 clubs and activities, and if you feel that one is missing, you can easily find the assistance to start one up yourself! When asked if, knowing what I know today after three years here, I could go back in time and change my decision, I always say, "Absolutely not."

Jillian

Make sure you do research about the school, find out about the programs you would be entering, and talk to current students. Go on at least two tours of the campus - one through the school and one with a student who isn't being paid to tell you only good things. Make sure you know what there is to do on campus and find out about the area around the campus. Talk to teachers in the areas that you will be studying. If you know someone at the school, spend a weekend with them so you can get a taste of what campus life is really like.

Sarah

In doing a college search, it is important to visit a variety of colleges and universities before making a final decision. Students may often have a one track mind, (ie. wanting a small school) and not even leave options open for larger schools that may offer more. This is why visiting a wide range of schools is esssential to the college searching process. Students often do not know what else is offerred in the United States without see beyond what they think they want. Prospective students need to understand that without trying new places they may never step outside of their comfort zone and experience the true ideas of growing up, being independent, and self sufficient.

Robert

Students should choose a university where they feel socially comfortable and academically challenged within their abilities. At least, that's what worked for me. Each student is different and has different expectations of college. Choose the one that best fits your expectations and follow through in a timely manner with applications, visits, and interviews. Did I say visit? Next to your home, college is the largest investment you will make in your lifetime. You wouldn't buy a car without test driving it would you? Also, make sure that your finances are in order, or at least make sure college expenses won't break the bank. Parents, encourage your student to take a vested interest in his/her college experience. Sending a child off to college without any accountability is asking for trouble. Kids, keep in touch with parents, because carepackages are great during midterms, and remember, textbooks will always be more expensive than you expect, so plan accordingly and shop around. Have fun, but not at the expense of your studies. Use your time in college to make the choices that will put you on a successful path, one day at a time.

Whitney

Reflecting on my college experience, I can honestly say I could not have asked for a better four years than the ones I lived at Delaware. With hindsight however, there are some things I wish I did differently. In seeing my friends' younger siblings starting the process of applying to schools I want so much to give them words of wisdom- advice and encouragment I wish someone had given me. In the broadest and simplest sense, the best advice I can give is to not hold back. If you are confident and happy with who you are, you are sure to attract numerous, worthwhile people, those that may be your friends for perhaps the rest of your life. Additionally, get involved! When first entering school, it can be an information overload with all the clubs and activities that are offered. Frustrating as it may be, find what you like, ask questions, and be active. I learned the hard way that school is not just class and books, but it's the relationships you make with others, and more importantly, what you make of yourself. In the end, how you have defined yourself as a person is what makes a difference.

Tikeyla

Find the college that fits into your life at the moment bu t because things can change find one that will work with the student and their needs.Find the college that fits your budget and the one that best supports your goals later in life

Julian

The best advice I can give to someone is to find the school with the right size. A big school can be overwhelming to some people, and it may make them feel out of place. A small school will allow for smaller class sizes and a relationship with teachers.

Susan

As a high school student, college seems like such a far-off dream. But leaving decisions for the last minute is the worst thing you can do. As a junior, all I thought about was senior year and how much fun I would have, and college hardly ever entered my mind. Looking back, I can tell you that the earlier you begin to look and to prepare to go away to school, the better the outcome. I am very pleased with the college I chose, but had I begun earlier, I may have received more finaincial aid and found out more things about the campus on which I live. So although you know you won't be leaving home tomorrow or even next month, start looking now, at least browsing catalogs or searching online. It will only help you in the longrun.

Ryan

Learn to balance social and academic life.

Kristin

The advice that I would give parents and/or students about finding the right college and making the most out of the college experience is to start looking early. From my experience, I started looking at colleges when I was a Sophomore in High school. Doing research on schools, and starting to think about what you might want to study when you go to college is really helpful. Start looking at what schools have the majors you may be interested in and see when the open house dates are to plan trips to visit the colleges. If your undecided, its not a problem, many students do not know what they want to do. Make sure the colleges you are looking at have majors you may be interested in. I would also advise that students look at a wide range of schools from small, medium, and large to get an idea of how big of a school they would like to go to.

Kristen

"College is the best four years of your life". As clich? as the saying may be, I truly believe college is an experience that everyone should make the most of. For some students this makes finding the ?perfect? school a daunting task. So how does one go about finding an institution that will provide them with a great education and a great social life? Research (through books and online) majors available, average GPA, and statistical information about the student population at every school you are interested in. Visit and make overnight stays at as most schools as possible. Talk to alumni and current students at every college you are interested in. It is important to get a feel for what each school is about, to help decide where you'll fit in best. You should have a feeling that you will 'belong' in whatever school it is you choose to attend. Therefore, when you begin life at your 'home away from home', study hard but always remember to play just as hard. Getting a good education while enjoying every moment of it is what I can say made my college years some of the best days of my life.

tanner

It's all about the feel of the school. Sure, some schools may be better at certain things than others, but unless you feel that you belong there the moment you step onto campus, then you're at the wrong school. The grades and achievments really only matter and mean the most when you truly feel that you our at YOUR school.

Andrew

Parents should sit down and listen to their child about career choices. The biggest help was my mother. I told her I wanted to pursue a career in Hotel, Restaurant Management and perhaps own my own restaurant. She helped me weigh the pros and cons of this field. Parents and their student should look at the cost of tuition, books, meal plans, and housing. If the school you want to attend isn't within your financial reach look for a school that is. College life can be stressful enough without worrying how you are going to pay for everything. If available, students need to visit the campus with their peers and then again with their parents. Parents are accustom to controlling and making most decisions for their child. Parents need to take a step back and let their child ultimately make their own decisions. Students need to embrace their new found freedom with discretion and good judgement. Students should also keep in mind that parents are parents for a reason; they do, on occasion, have great advice, knowledge and experience.

Kelsey

I would tell parents to have a hands off approach when it comes time for their child to choose a college. I feel the best thing my parents did for me was to let me make all the decisions on my own. That way they knew that I was interested in and passionte about the schools I had choosen. I would also tell parents not to focus on or get too attached to one school. This could potentially lead to dissapointment if their child was not accepted. Applying to college can be very stressful and the last thing a student needs is the weighted pressure of their parents dreams that they go to one particular school. I saw many high school seniors who were crushed and completely depressed if they got rejected from their favorite school. Choosing and accepting to a University should be fun and often times outside pressures especially from parents or loved ones makes the process more stressful. In order to make the most of the college experiance it is important to surround yourself with positive activities, relationships, and courses that stimulate you and keep you engaged in your school.

Caitlin

Keep your options open and don't settle until you find the perfect match. Then, don't give it up for anything.

Christopher

Finding the 'right college' is imperative to ones success at a higher institution of learning. You cannot just pick a university based on name or popularity; it has to fit you, the student (and no one else). I knew that Entomology was what I was passionate about, and that I needed to be able to pursue a career in that field, so that was the primary way that I found out about the University of Delaware. Having the opportunities to conduct research and study abroad were also important to me. But it's also about feeling comfortable at the school you want to attend, and having the opportunity to pursue your interests while also being exposed to a variety of things that you might not be interested in or know about. College cannot solely be about the things that you're interested in, because that's not how it is in the real world. I chose the University of Delaware because I felt that it would expose me to new ideas, new interests, and new people, and this added a whole new dimension to my learning experience. Feel comfortable, but also be open to stepping outside of your comfort zone.

Eric

Get involved. Be proactive. Opportunties rarely float to you.

Nicholas

Of all the variables that could affect college choice, I feel that environment is absolutely the most important aspect to consider. The environment of the school could include such variables as: closeness to home, type of campus, type of people, accessibility of services, etc. What is most important is that the student is comfortable with where they choose to go. Not only will a high comfort level increase the ease of the transition from home to college, but it will make getting work done easy as well. I noticed early in my career that I do my best work when I am content with everything else going on in my life. When I can complete my work easily I am able to learn more efficiently. Other than the incredible workload, the absolute hardest part of school for me was adjusting to a completely new way of living. What eased this transition was the fact that I felt comfortable at the school after only a few days. Overall, no matter how good the school is, it is more important to find the school that caters to the specific needs of the student in order to make learning as easy as possible.

Alex

Go with your gut. Go where it "feels right" for you. And get involved on campus. Remember, its hard to make a small school big, but its easy to make a big school small if you get involved.

Dara

When looking for a college, student has to seach for the school that feels right to them. It has to be a school that offers the programs they need to achieve their goals and at the same time gives them an opportunity to try new things. The student must feel comfortable with the atmosphere and feel as though they can prosper in the environment.

Gregory

Choose a college where you feel at home and where you think you will get the best edcuation for your money. Get involved with as many activities as possible and surround yourself with a good group of people to make the most of your college experience. Also, while you must work hard, do not forget to take time off for yourself to have fun.

Kellie

I think the choice should be up to the students. Make sure that you are happy with the college you choose and you feel comfortable there. It's important to live in a comfortable atmosphere so you are content with where you are at and can see yourself making a future at that college or university. Trying new things and getting involved are key ingredents to making the most of the college experience. Whether it be trying new foods, joining a club, sorority, or fraternity, do something different and that way you can meet new people and you'll have fun along the way!

Laura

When looking for the right college, make a list of pros and cons of the school you are visiting after your visit. That way the school is fresh in your mind and when you look at all of your lists when making your final decision you will have a better idea of how to compare the universitites. Also, if you are unsure about a school plan an overnight visit with a student, contact a professor, get to know the school as best as you can before you make your final decision to make sure this is the best fit for you. Once you are accepted to your school and have made your final decision, to make the most of your experience, pick a major that you are passionate about. Don't let others pressure you to do one major because they think it will be good for you. College is a time in your life where you're allowed to be selfish. Make the most of your time and get to know as many people as possibles. Make connections, and take your classes seriously while also having fun, and you will leave with four years of great memories!

Fallon

Never stop looking. When you think you've explored every possiblity, think again. Also, no matter what, don't take "no" for an answer. Pick and pick and pick until they reply to your email, return your call, or agree to meet with you. Don't be afraid to be annoying. "The squeaky wheel gets the grease" has never been a more appropriate phrase. Finally, have fun. Don't let the academics consume you, try new things, meet new friends, college is an adventure, make the most of it.

Jessica

Believe Believe Believe. Parents and students most certaintly need to know that there is a college or University for everyone that seeks one. Throughout my college search I had a short period of disbelief in my future, but with a little help from my parents and family I finally stepped onto a campus that was everything I had dreamed college life would be. If it was not for the support of parents who never stopped believing in me, I would have given up on college with no intention of returning. So my deepest and most moving advice I can give anyone reaching toward college is to let nothing stop you on your journey of creating yourself and your life. You never know how powerful your choices and life can be in molding another human being. Believe in yourself, life is what you make it and it always will be; Make it your path, make it your choice, and enjoy it when it comes.

Christine

Most universities have a welcoming or tour guide program which can help you learn about the school and enjoy your visit. The University of Delaware for example has the Blue Hen Ambassadors, a team of 150+ representative tour guides. They are trained to know the facts, but they are real students too. I would suggest the parents/student team to meet with a group such as this at any universities in which they are interested. You will gain immense knowledge about the university and ease some fears about the college process for both the parent and student.

Kathleen

Get invloved. The first semester of my freshman year I made a lot of mistakes. I didn't socialize very much, I never went out to parties, I didn't join any clubs or students organizations, and as a result, I had only a few freinds, I was very homesick, and I missed all of the activities I used to do in high school. After my first semester I auditioned and was accepted into a co-ed a cappella group which combined two things that I absolutely love: friends and music. I got a part in one of the student run theater productions and made a lot of friends that way. I started to go out more and put myself out there. I am very happy here and it is because I had the opportunity to get involved in so many extracurriculars and meet so many people with the same interests. Pick a school that offers the activities that you love... you'll be miserable with out them. And if there is nothing you are currently interested in, pick a school like the University of Delaware that has TONS of different activities and organizations to get involved in.

Jamie

I would suggest taking as much time as possible in making a decision about school. Meet professors, meet students and if possible spend a day just living and experiencing the campus and campus life. Make sure that the education ideals of the school fit your own and that you are willing to live up to the standards of the university you decide to go to. In other words don't pick an academically challenging and intense school if you are only going to college to get a degree and a job, go to that school if you are looking to learn as much as possible and challenge yourself. The most important thing to me though is the cost of education. Go somewhere that you believe the money will be worth it. In my experience I have discovered that most schools are very academically close and it is not worth it to choose a famous school name over a cheaper and just as good education.

Hena

Finding the right college is probably the biggest decision of your teenage years. If a person doesn't find the right college they will end up doing bad and regretting their descision for the next four years. My advice to all parents and students is tour the college you are planning to go to. Attend one of the classes required for your major. Before signing up for a class look at the professor and research about him/her before attending his/her classes. Also, look into all the dorms at the university, sometimes they might show one of thier best dorms and give you one of the worst there. To make the best out of college is to make sure you don't get too caught up in school or partying. It's important to have a great balance in both of them. Most importantly, don't forget your old friends from back home, sometimes all you need is people who have been with you since you were babies. But it is also very important to meet new, different people who you have never seen or met before. College is just the beginning of your life, so make it right!

Molly

Choosing the school that fits you is vital to making the most of your college experience. The setting is important because a student's comfort level can be greatly affected by the surrounding environment. The student body is significant to consider because diversity can be scarce and that may be a positive thing to some and negative to others. Also, one should consider the reputation of the programs which they will be taking. Some schools have a widely recognized program for a specific major or concentration and that can do wonders for a student's career choices outside of college. Access to extracurricular activities and employment should be considered as well because that can make or break one's experience. Overall, a student should be open minded when visiting a school and they should ask what the school can do for them and what they can do for the school in the four years they will spend there.

Vanessa

I would advise parents and students to start thinking early. It is imperative that they go visit these schools and spend time there and get maybe a student persepctive on what is available. Really no one else will be able to give you better information and honest answers to your questions. I would also tell students to be open. College is such a different type of environment in comparison to high school, it is important to branch out and try new things. College organizations often do not have the funds to greatly advertise events so be active in trying to find out what is available. Also do not be afraid to join an organization, it will only lead to more opportunities and familarity with what is available on campus. It also is the best way to find that niche you are looking for when it comes to developing a sense of home. I would also say keep the grades up from the beginning! Practice different study habits and find what works for you. Having a good gpa from the beginning will open door opportunities for you in the near in far future! Especially for scholarships, work , graduate school and internships.

Josh

When you look for a college, visiting at least 3 of them is a must. I would not consider you accepting entrance to a college that you have not visited. The most important part of college is to find a place you will fit in. The university of delaware for instance, has a large student body and encourages diversity. There are student groups involving all different types of lifestyle choices. You should look for a school that will cater to you, as well as provide alternative thoughts and ideas. Another important aspect to a college is the level of education it provide. You may not necessarily have to go to the most prestigious school, but look for a good balance between academics, extra cirrucular activities, education services (tutoring, professor availability...), and career placement. It will be dificult to choose a school, but many prospectives can make a decision after a few months and a visit of the school. I encourage taking a tour and talking to current students about their experiences.

Brittany

Fututre students should definitely do their research when deciding on the school they want to attend. It all comes down to the person. For me, I wanted a school with diverse students from different backrounds, so that not only would i be learning in the classroom, I would be learning in the outside of the classroom as well. I can only give advise concerning myself, and I decided on UD because it was too big, and it wasn't too small. I didn't want to seem like just a number among the crowd. Academics are very important, and you should a school that has high expections for the student. I wanted to have somewhat of challenge, while still having fun. Another thing that was important was the amount of on campus organizations to be involved in. It makes school so much more exciting when you're actually involved. In the end, It's a personal decision.

Jessie

You have to visit the schools you are deciding between and make sure you take into consideration things like: size of school, academic life, social life, number of commuters, ect.

Carl

In finding the right school that fits one must take into account the distance of the school from one's home. Many students would rather stay close to home and this can have an affect on the students college life, and academics. Financial status should be taken into consideration. No one wants to be in debt to their knees after they graduate. Therefore, findings a school that fits into one's financial budget is good. Make sure the college has the major one is interested in pursuing. It is also nice to have a school that has one's major and is accredited. That means getting the degree from an accredited program is better than just having a degree from a ordinary program. Making the most of college life is in the students hands. Get active at one's school. Meeting new and different people can go a long while later in life. Joining clubs and participating in extra-curricular activites enhances one's college experience. It will definitely one to remember, because most only get one chance.

Mark

The advice that i would give students about finding the right college is to read as much about the school you think you like then go see the school while it's in session. See if the school has you major that you plan to study. Visiting a college is the most vital part of picking a school. This will allow you to know almost everything from the kind of place the college is. From how the students act, the class interactions, and just the city or town itself. This will give you the best idea to see if you really want to go to that college. During the research first on the college will partly insure that you are not wasting money on a visit due to travel.

Claire

Visit as many schools as possible and try not to be influenced by what other people tell you you should look for. Size has a huge impact on a school so make sure you have the feel for big and small schools so you know what is right for you. City versus suburban can also have a great affect on your experience so make sure you figure out which is best suited to you. The most important thing is to make the decision on your own and don't be influenced by what other people are doing or saying because this is where you will be for the next four years and you need to know it is right for you. Ultimately you will get back what you put in, so where ever you end up get involved in as many things as possible and meet as many people as you can.

Cynelsa

Finding the right college is not always the easiest thing. Make sure that before you begin searching, you know what types of envrionments you thrive in, how much money you're willing to pay, location and transportation concerns. Setting these types of ideas beforehand well pay off. As far as making the most of your experience when you've made it, make sure you are challenging yourself daily. Make sure you have a positive outlook on life and that your personal goals have to do with empowering yourself and the people around you. Get involved and help your community!

Lauren

I would advise students to research the schools that they really are interested in visiting. Don't just go off what the acceptance packet or the website or people say actually look into it. The tours and orientation are good options as well, however asking the actually student body is probably the best thing for you. They can tell you the true climate of the campus and what's really going on because if you do decide to come to the campus they are going to be you. Also, don't settle if the campus doesn't feel right or things just seem off to you don't go because you think that you'll end up liking it late. I've had friends that returned to schools that are closer to home because they went to they thought they'd grow into but they didn't. So feel out the school that you're interested in and don't settle you'll be spenidng four years of your life here and you're going to want to be comfortable.

Jennifer

The greatest piece of advice anyone could give to potential students (and the parents who want the best for them) is this: you get out what you put in. Yes it is a bit cliched, possibly trite, but it is one-hundred percent true and is especially well-suited to the college experience; regardless of which institution of higher learning in which one chooses to pursue a degree, the experience will only be as positive and as fulfilling as it is allowed to be. So even if you didn't get accepted to, or can't afford, your first choice, chances are an amazing and educationally-sound experience is waiting for you at one of your safeties so long as you are willing to give it your best. Try not to be too concerned with where your high school friends are going, and don't allow the specter of homesickness to keep you from venturing farther than you may be comfortable with right now, you will rise to the challenge and be better for it. When you do get to college try not to allow high school hang-ups to keep you from experiencing everything you can, do it all.

Amanda

look for schools size, and environment... sign up for lots of activities to meet new people and friends

Katie

In order to find the right college, I would tell students to go on as many college visits as possible, and when they go, they need to think about how they would fit in at that particular college and talk to students that already go there. They also need to think about their passions, and what opportunities that college can offer them during and after their undergraduate experience. Don't ever choose a college because everyone you know is going there. College leaves different impressions on different people and it is important to decide on the college that you feel fits you best. Making the most of your college experience can be described in two words: get involved. Whether it is undergraduate research, volunteering, clubs, sports, or Greek life, getting involved on campus can make or break your college experience. Student groups can introduce you to new experiences, people, opportunities, and outlooks on life. The people that you meet can potentially be life-long friends, or just leave a lasting impression on you. Find your passion and pursue it; once you are in the real world you can never get back those opportunities missed in college.

Laura

When searching for the right college, visit a school at least once if not two or three times before you make your decisions. Attend a class, stay overnight, get to know the campus to make sure that this is truly the school for you. I visited my college 4 times before I made my final decision, and I'm so glad I did. Also, take the tour and ask questions!! The tour guides are there to help you and make sure you know everything there is to know about the school. Another tip: Don't count a school off your list because it rained or was bad weather the day you visited. Not all days are like that. Yes, the weather can make the trip less enjoyable and more uncofortable but try to make the best of the situation. Alot of times, you'll just know that a school is perfect for you from the second you step onto the campus. Listen to your heart. Make sure you love the school, and be open to all the new opportunities that lie ahead! And you'll be fine!

Adriel

My advice to students searching for their right school would be to follow your passions. Students today are being pressured to choose a school based on its academic merit as opposed to what they really offer to the individual. As a result, those who choose a school for its prestige and not for what it can offer on a personal level, will eventually either receive poor grades or graduate with a degree in a field in which they are not satisfied with. What a school can offer you is a very important factor to consider because after your academic career, you will be the one responsible for paying off the debts that have accumulated. Because of this, I believe that if you are going to end up paying off debts for a while after you graduate, you should be able to pay off your debts with the thought in mind that you got your money's worth.