University of Kentucky Top Questions

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

Jessica

i would just recommend not to wait until the last minute and start your plans early. The earlier you start looking and applying, the better chance you may have of getting into the college of your choice. Always go to class, even when you don't want to because if you don't go to class you may miss out on something big that could help you out in the long run with school.

Cynthia

The best advice given to me is that it matters not where you go but what you take from it.

Jordan

Choosing an undergraduate university is an extremely important decision that will affect the rest of a student's life. Make a decision based on the academic achievements of that school, the opportunities in your field, and the diverse attitudes of the student population. In addition, be sure that there are opportunities for jobs, entertainment, and socializing off campus property. Your tastes and interests will progress through your schooling, so be sure there is room for change on your campus!

Erin

When finding the right college, I definetly suggest visiting a lot of campuses. That is what helped my decision because even though I "liked" a lot of campuses, thought they were pretty, but there was only one that I got that gut feeling about, and it was the university that I selected to attend and couldn't see myself happier anywhere else. As for making the most of the college experience, I say get involved and put yourself out there. For me personally, I joined a sorority and the club horseback riding team. Joining either of these type of places helps you meet people and bond with your fellow classmates. These are the people who help shape your experience, and become your friends for life. They help you grow as a person and help you define yourself as an individual.

Patrick

To those looking to attend college, please take pause; your next decisions will affect you greatly. You are currently in the "dream" phase of college. I have realized the hard way a few things about the dream of college in my time as an undergraduate. Firstly, never forget that no matter what your university may peddle to you, you are their bread and butter. You are a number and a paycheck first and foremost. You are only human secondarily. Consequential to this, do not rely on your university to hand over to you on a silver platter the rosetta stone to a career. You and that brilliant mind of yours are the genesis of the future success you seek. If you want to be successful, it's because you will beg, borrow, and steal your way to it with no university's help. Never forget that you are buying a diploma. And never forget that without your own diligence, fortitude, and unflappable determination, you'll be in the same place you are now. Dreaming. So go get your degree, and win your future... but never let anyone tell you that you didn't win it on your own.

William

Do as much research as possible, never accept the first great offer!

blair

I would advise them to do a lot of research on all your opportunities. Trying to find the right college is not easy but once you do you will know it. Make sure you look into the financial aid opportunities that the school might offer, because every little bit helps. Looking for a school with great school spirit makes school and the environment around it just that much more fun. This is where you make your best friends and are likely to stay friends for a lifetime so live it up and remember you?re only in college once so have fun!

Daniel

To the parents: If you have never put a child through college before, I would advise hiring a college advisor who can help with your decision process and make you aware of different opportunites. Also, don't pressure your child too much to go to college immediately after high school. I think that there is a lot to be said for spending some time trying to figure out what path of study the child may want to pursue in college, instead of blindly ambling through a degree that they end up hating and never using. Don't stifle their creativity either and don't pressure them to make money. Instead, constantly encourage them to pursue what they love and money will follow; it's unfair to put certain expectations on your children. After all, they are still children, even if the college sees them as adults. To the students: Never sell yourself short. Go big and follow your dreams. Don't be terrified of losing friends or being away from certain people by going where you want; this is the time in your life to invest in yourself. You are the only one who can live your dreams.

Allison

Find a college that you are happy at as a student. I was dead set on going to Ohio State University, but when I toured there I didn't get an excited feeling like I did when I walked onto the University of Kentuckys's Campus. Go where it feels right. Don't follow your friends, or your boyfriend/girlfriend! Go where you feel comfortable because in the long run it will be worth it!

Abby

You will know where you feel comfortable if you go and visit college campuses. If you go on a tour, look at how the people interact and ask people questions about what they really love about their school. It is also a good idea to see what resources are avaliable to students; things such as a career center and tutoring centers. Don't be afraid to look at schools in which you thought you would never attend. I thought I would never attend the University of Kentucky and now, I can't picture myself anywhere else. Get exctied about looking at different colleges and be excited about going to school and learning. It has been a great experience for me so far and I hope other students have the great college experience that I have had!

dean

make colleg visits

Courtney

I would say to go on many campus tours. You never know whether or not you will like a place until you visit it. When you visit a campus and it feels like home then you know that you have come to the right place. Do not be swayed by promises, but instead go with your heart and where you feel like you will fit in best.

Alexandra

Make sure you spend more than a day or two in the area, and talking to the students.

Aaron

Parents and students should take extra time in deciding where to attend college. If someone does not like the school they are attending, their grades will suffer. Parents should visit many schools and take the tours around campus to geta feel of the lifestyle. Also, prospective students should pick up a copy of the student newspaper to see what some of the activities going on around campus might include. To make the most a a college esperience, students should at least attempt to live on campus in the dorms. With dorm life you meet new people and really get the college lifestyle experience.

Stephanie

Make sure you visit alot of different schools and look at all sizes.

Hannah

My advice would to parents and students about finding the right college and making the most of their college experience is to relax first of all. There is no need to rush through college stressed out. It will only make things not enjoyable. Take your time, do not overload yourself and have fun now and then. It will pay off later!

Jordon

Apply to the one you really want to go, and do everything you can to go to that one.

Benjamin

I want to encourage students to not be set on a major before they enter college. Using your Freshman year as an Undeclared Major and getting the University-required out of the way!

David

Visit as many colleges as possible, and parents should support their children in whatever they want to do, and not tell them their major is stupid and that they should go to a school they don't want for a major they don't care about. Students should be aware that if they do not live on campus at a large school, they will largely be ignored and have a hard time making friends. You can also count on the large school not catering to your needs if you commute. (IE: Holding classes on days where it's dangerous to drive due to weather conditions, lack of parking, etc.)

Shelley

The best advice I can give is when looking for that perfect college go with one that offers many majors and many possible career paths. Give yourself many options to discover. College is all about finding yourself and discovering who you are. Choose a career that makes you happy and that you can see yourself doing for many many years. No matter what others may think of your choice, always remember that if it makes YOU happy, that's all that matters. Also, you don't have to rush in and choose right away. Take many different classes and find your niche. So that way when you do find out what it is that you want to do, you can prepare accordingly and take all the appropriate steps to be the best at it you can be. Study hard and always have the greater goal in mind.

Jason

Do as much research as possible and put in as many applications as you can, even if you do not intend to go to that school. Do not go to the first one that accepts you and put your education before all things when making your choice. It is fun to meet new people and party as a freshman, but when you get to be an upperclassman, you will see that there is much more to life and that the next few years will change your life in a very positive or negative direction... it's your choice!

Laura

When looking for the right college, first decide on how big of a classroom you would want your lectures to be in. Then go and look at the schools that have the classroom sizes you want. Then when you go to look at the schools look at the atmosphere around you. I know when I first looked at UK I noticed how upbeat the atmosphere was and also how clean and pretty the campus was. These are the things that got me hooked to UK and what I looked for. When choosing make sure you had a good vibe from the people and the environment from the visit. Making the most out of your college experience is to use all of the free services and organizations the school offers. When your in college you don't want to be a couch potatoe, but to go out and enjoy yourself. Be yourself and try out different organizations intil you find one that is right for you. Make new friends with the same interest because they will be your friends for life. Just don't be shy and get involved and you'll find how much fun college can be.

Michael

Visit as many schools as you can!

Sadie

Pick a college whose size you will be comfortable with. Shy people don't do well in big classes, I've learned. Smaller schools are close-knit; larger ones have more diversity, but can be harder to find a niche in. Be sure to choose somewhere you have a chance of finding that 'niche,' instead of spending your college years feeling absolutely out of place. Choose a school that offers majors that will give you access to a career you can be passionate about, taking classes that motivate and inspire you along the way. Pay attention to location--choose a school with a city that appeals to you, weather that won't make you miserable, and housing that has opportunity to really feel like home. When you're at your school, be sure to find activities (ranging from new to old interests, be they study clubs or volunteer organizations). Don't hide away in your room the entire time. Make your college home away from home, not just a temporary stop: meet people, experience cultures and diversity through clubs or classes, enjoy yourself.

Andrew

It is very important to understand that taking a college visit does little justice to the school you're looking at. Aside from familiarizing you with the campus, I believe it's hard to get a true flavor of the school until you've spent time there. I have had much difficulty in transitioning to college life from home; however, it's something that you have to do, you survive, and I can honestly say are much better off because of it. To make the most of your experience, you must really dive in initially. Take advantage of any and all opportunities; nothing is lost of it doesn't pan out the way you would want it to. You then, at least, know that you have tried and hopefully learned something in the process. It's extremely important to take the school work seriously as well. I have learned so much. Not just in general lessons, but in how to handle it all it as if it's a job. Maturing is a huge part in the first year or two of college. That you have the chance to attain anywhere and will, I promise, be better off for it.

Anthony

Go where you want to go, not what you think you can afford.

Amanda

Visit the campuses. Talk to professors and students that are in your intended area of study. Find out what specific things each college has to offer you. Weight out your options carefully. You want to pick the college that best fits who you are and what you are about. Many colleges may try to sell you by promising things, but be careful because somethimes those promises can be empty. Also, try to choose a college that you can afford. That way the stress of money or lack there of won't interfere with your studies. I would also recomend going to class regularly and trying to find/make at least one friend in all of you classes. If you miss, they can tell you what happened and share notes. Plus, it's always good to have a study partner. If you put forth an effort, you will succeed.

Lauren

Always remember to stay true to yourself. You know the type of person that you are, and you know what you are capable of. Dont attend a college where you are trying to please someone esle or you will be miserable. Do what you want to do, because you are only young once and this is a monumental desicion. Be open to try several different colleges. Its ok to have a favorite but dont let that one make you biast towards the others.

Bethany

Visit the campus! And check to make sure your intended major is not only offered but has a good program behind it. If you want to major/minor in something [like a language] and it's taught but not offered as a major/minor, look into it, because that might mean that the classes are low quality. Talk to people attending the school but make sure they're random and unbiased [maybe message random people on facebook]. Explore the type of people that go there, and if they're the kind of people you'd fit in with. Freshmen should live in the dorms and get involved in at least one or two clubs/organizations. Don't overdo it [grades are number one]. Ask for help, campuses usually have assistance available. If you're looking at colleges go with your instict, because it's probably right. Don't be afraid to socialize or ask questions [even if that's hard for you to do] and be careful at all times because no campus is completely safe or perfect but it is easy enough to avoid trouble.

natalie

My advice would be to make sure you look at the job rate after graduation at that college. Also, I would advise them to look into the costs and if the college offers financial aid and scholarships. Contact alumni and anyone who has worked or went to school there for additional advice. Take a tour of the campus and ask current students how they like the school. Check out the dorms and living areas to see what kind of condition they are in. Check the crime rates near campus and how many campus police officers there are. Check class sizes either by asking students or by sitting in classes yourself. Ask students how their experience with academic and financial advisors have been.

Matthew

Decide on a career and find the best school for what you need to learn.

Brierly

When looking for a school think about your future first and foremost. Many students get caught up in the social aspect of college and forget that eventually they are going to be out in the real world. The future can be a scary thought, but if you are at a school that can guide you on your desired path, it will seem less overwhelming. Look into the programs at each school and make sure that they are strong enough to help you reach your full potential. In making the most of your college experience, make sure to surround yourself with people that will support you no matter what. College can be difficult at times, so having a support system is very important. If you keep up with your studies and spare some time for fun, college will be a memorable experience for the better.

Laura

I would encourage parents and students to explore campus life. To see if their student sees potential community at that particular school. Establishing that community first and foremost, I believe, will make their college experience more meaningful, enjoyable and purposeful.

Demetrius

I would say to the students to find a college that will provide you with many tutoring services and a safe campus.

Heather

Consult with students who live on campus. Ask other parents about their children's experiences in college. Make sure you read up on The Princeton Review and U.S. News because they give honest opinions about whether you will get what you pay for or not. Also, be very adamant in your financial aid attempts. Beware of public schools promising things they do not give; get EVERYTHING in writing so that you know it is guaranteed for the entirety of your child's stay. Make sure their dorms are comfortable, or nothing will get done: EVER!

Jennifer

It is hard to put into words how you "find" the right college. Some people just "know", others have their dream college picked out from the time they can talk, and yet there are still others who spend endless hours filling out applications and touring campuses. There are, however, some key considerations you should keep in mind. First and foremost - have an idea of what you would like to major in or what type of career you would like to have, and target colleges with those programs. Second- consider how close to home you would like to be. Third - tour different campuses and arrange to sit in on some classes. It is important that you feel comfortable at the university. In order to make the most of your college experience, it is critical that you pick the college that fits you the best - the one that meets your needs, feels comfortable and is affordable. Once you are in the right college, make connections, with both professors and other students. These relationships will help you survive through your next four years. It also helps to get involved in extra-curricular activities and to be aware of the different services on campus.

sarah

I would tell parents to let the student go where ever they want to and if money is an issue then find a way to make it happen. College is the best time of your life. I would tell the students to follow their dreams and choose the best place you feel you would fit in. Try not to base your decision on where your friends are going because you will meet so many new friends in college.

Elizabeth

Know exactly what you are looking for and come with a list of questions before you shadow colleges. Personally, i wouldn't go too far away from home in case something were to happen and you would need to go home for the weekend. But also go far enough that you start making a life on your own. If you don't know what you want to major in make sure to find a school with lots of oppertunities and help in finding your prefect career. Finally, choose your school for yourself and not any friends or significant others who may be going somewhere not perfect for you.

John

Visit lots of schools, don't worry about the finincaial aspect of college, and trust your gut feeling about each school. Don't over analyze what you experience.

Kathleen

Visit on multiple occasions!

Wendy

It's tempting to just jump on the bandwagon and follow your high school friends to college, but this is your big chance to point your life in the direction you really want. Don't be afraid to branch out. Visit some schools before you choose; odds are, one of them will feel right for you. Make sure you look into the school's programs and figure out if their strengths coincide with your academic plans. Once you're there, try new things! This is the only time in your life when you have absolute freedom to try anything (soccer, theater, politics, etc.). Take advantage of all the new opportunities and people (especially stuff outside of your comfort zone). You'll never know what you might like or what amazing people you might meet, so don't be shy! When it comes to classes, GO! Attending lecture is the easiest way to keep up. A big part of college is making friends and having fun, but don't let your social life run your grades into the ground. Remember to thank all the supportive people in your life who've helped you get this far and, of course, have fun!

Jessica

I would advise parents and students to make sure that the particular school they are interested in actually has the degree they want to pursue. Also, make sure you visit the school. Experience the feeling it gives you and if you are truly comfortable. Meet as many people as you can. Sit down in a class, preferably a big class so you can know a little of what to expect. College is very intimidating so make sure you know that it is going to be right for you, because my freshman year was the hardest mentally and psychically. If you aren't focused then you're GPA will suffer. Remember this FACT: It is so easy to drop your GPA and so hard to bring it back up. Never overlook that, because Employees WILL look at your GPA. Get as much experience as you can in your field. Intern, Intern, Intern! Intern even if you wouldn't make any money. Experience is a necessity to finding your dream job. I must mention study very hard, but have fun because it will fly by. Make sure that you tell your parents they can visit whenever they want...They will love that!

Rachel

The advice I would give parents and students about finding the right college would be to find somewhere where you feel comfortable. A place where you fit in and can see yourself growing mentally, physically, and emotionally in the next four years. Somewhere you feel safe having your kid leave and make a new home. A college that can provide all the needs you are looking for in your education and your future career. To make the most out of your college experience you need to be involved and be active with your school. You can be in a sorority or fraternity, play intermural sports, be in clubs or multiple other things colleges provide. Colleges also provide many opportunites like free tutoring, help in certain subjects, and career fairs to help with internships. All of these things will benefit your time while being at school. In your early years at school you can live in the dorms and get to know hundreds of other students your age who are starting the same transition. Later in your college years you can try being a teachers assistant and find a new way to get involved with your college.

Kathryn

I know personal preferences play a huge part in a high school senior deciding where they should attend college. Some people immediately know they have to move away from home for college. Some others, like myself, know that they have to stay close to home. Some colleges have better programs for certain areas of interest (ex: medicine, education, law). In addition our friends and boyfrieds/girlfriends and enemies can also push us in one direction or another. For parents- safety and money are the main deciding factors for their children's educations. Regardless of where an individuals' final decision takes them, one's college experience is always up to them. Every college/university in the country has the potential to offer years of education, fun, excitment, memories, and friendships. But it is the students decision as to how they are going spend those memorable four years. This is why I would recommend getting as involved as possible on your local campus (maybe even live on campus for a year). The more you're involved the more opportunities you have to meet lasting friends, to learn more about the world we live in, and to learn more about ourselves.

Nicole

Finding the right college is about the academic and social learning experience. Most students go to college to find themselves in a desired profession and also to find life-long friends. I was able to go to a college where i felt deeply tied to, as both of my parents met at the University of Kentucky, so i was raised to Bleed Blue. I knew being the outgoing person i am, i would make friends easily in such a diverse and enormous campus. Choosing the right college is all about who you are at the moment of High School graduation and what you want to be when you go into the professionaly world. UK's large, socially spirited and strongly academic nature fit perfect for what i wanted to do/learn going into the professional world. Most students go to college to find themselves professionaly and socially and if they are at a place where they aren't comfortable, they will not succeed or be happy. It's important to remember that college is the stepping stone to the working world and to be comfortable and proud of where you make those professional steps will feed into your career.

Kevin

i dont care about the scholarship im done school but my advice is this: Figure out the size campus and student body and how far away you want to go from home and then make your choices based on those criteria and the schools you can get into. Select schools that have sports programs because they unite all students under one cause and one passion. Sports can fuel a school and provide the best memories. Solid academics and great sports programs can be great locations along with weather and location.

Elizabeth

College can be an amazing experience. As someone who switched majors midway through junior year, I am living proof that it can sometimes take awhile to find your niche, but trying new courses that sound exciting is well worth it. (Best to do so earlier than later, BUT taking longer than four years to complete a degree is normal--it's not failure if you've used your time well.) Extracurricular activities can help you feel more engaged at school and follow or find passions...not to mention they look great on resumes and grad school applications. Schoolwork should come first, so I recommend picking just one or two to avoid becoming overwhelmed. Studying abroad is FANTASTIC for testing your limits and discovering the world, and also for boosting foreign language skills. If you don't want to commit to a whole semester, consider a two- or three-week program--I did and loved it so much, I did two programs the next summer! Scholarships and financial aid can help put study abroad within reach of any motivated student. College is about trying new things, so don't shy away from challenges. Take advantage of opportunities and enjoy it!

Patryk

I would just tell them it is really important to think about what college they would want to attend, not just jump the gun on a decision. Also I feel it is very importatn to visit a few colleges, especially during a time in which classes are taking place so the student can get a vibe for the school and so they can feel what's right for them.

Charles

I would advise the student to choose very wisely about where you choose to go basedupon what your major is. Look at your options before jumping to any college. Don't go to a college that all your friends are going to just to stick with them. Choose a college that fits you best. Worry about your education and academic standards first before your social life. If they are true friends they will stik with you no matter what school you go to. Once you pick the right college for you, don't be shy. Jump right into the atmosphere around you. Don't worry about what other people think about you.Introduce yourself to others, that is how you make friends. Try not to think of college as a chore, but as an opportunity to better yourself and to create a bright future that you would be proud of.

Tiffany

Finding the right college is one of the most challenging, exciting, and yet scary times in a young person' life. My advice is to start early in high school to determine the type of college that would best match your personality. Narrow the selection by size and distance from home and of course, by what subject you want to study. However, most schools have the basic majors and so for me, it is important to select the school that will have the most supportive environment for you. Knowing how you learn best and what setting you will be most comfortable in is key. Once you have narrowed the possible schools take time to visit them. It is ideal to narrow the selection to three or four and then go spend time on campus, preferably living on campus for a few days and attending classes. Just attending the admission tours and such won't give you a real feel for the campus. Once you have made the selection and arrive on campus get involved. Challenge yourself to explore new things and get to know students from different backgrounds than you. Really try to get out of your comfort zone.