University of Louisiana at Monroe Top Questions

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

Justin

I would go back and tell myself to try atleast a little harder in school. Before I applied for ULM I did not know that if my ACT score would have been one point higher I could have gotten a $3,500 reward with a $500 housing award, but I did not apply myself as hard and am now in college struggling with paying for it. I also would have told myself college is easy and going through senior year, applying youself to get atleast a 3.6 GPA, would have been worth it. I also would have told myself that being more friendly and open goes a long way with a smile, because in college it's all about having fun with your friends while maintaing grades to have a sucessful career.

Aidan

As a college freshmen, I do look back at my high school experience and think about what I could have changed. One thing I would have told myself my freshmen year of high school is, "Aidan, you better work harder and longer if you wnt to make it to the top ten of your class!" I only say this because I graduated as number 11 in my class. This did make me sad that I was not announced at graduation. The transition to college was easy for me because I took all the advice I could have given myself in high school and applied it to my college experirence. I strive to be in the top ten of the graduating class of 2018 at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, and I fully intend to put the best I have into this dream. One day I will look back and be so proud of myself for being so determined and getting to stand on that stage in front of all my peers and say "I made it."

Derrick

Dear Derrick, When you arrive in college the opportunities for distractions will be great. There are many fraternities for you to join, many activities to be involved in, and many social gatherings for you attend, but none of them will contribute to your ability to do what you came to do. Remember, you are going to college to get a degree and everything else is a distraction. While you should allow yourself time to relax, do not allow yourself to become complacent. While you should find time to socialize, do not allow it to deter you from your studies. While you should enjoy yourself in college, do not let it prevent you from getting your degree. You are going here to obtain a degree and that should be your primary focus, it is the prime directive. I love you very much and I want you to succeed. Do not take everything people say to you to heart. Find yourself and find your focus and in this you will find success. With Love, Your Future Self

Briyana

BE PREPARED!!!!!! I would tell myself this because I went there alot of things because I was not prepared. It would have be alot smoother and less stressful if I came prepared. I would also tell myself to enjoy your last months in thwe house, because once you get to college you will be on your on. Just try not to stress out and enjoy.

Aaliyah

Save your money! I worked all my senior year and have nothing to show for it. I could have had thousands of dollars saved up and now I wish I had it all back. I understand the true meaning of not having money being in college on my own. Also, I would have told myself to not get wrapped up in these guys. They cloud your mind and make you want to stay up late, be late for classes, and even skip when you need to be in them the most! That is something that I struggled with my first semester. That second piece of advice would have been very useful seeing in participating in all of that, I lost one of my scholarships as a result of the dropping of my GPA. Now that my entire first year is over, it's school first, play later. My education is more important than anything else that I have going on with anyone. If I had known these things before I went through my first year, it would have gone so much smoother.

Alexandra

If I could go back in time and speak to my high school self, I would give the following pieces of advice: -Manage your time wisely. You're going to have much more free time, and while it is important to relax and have fun, you should use every moment you can on your studies. -Do not be afraid to be yourself. College is a whole new world compared to high school. You're an adult now. Be yourself and be proud of yourself. -Get enough sleep. Class is hard enough without sleep deprivation. -Talk to your professors. They're glad to help you and speak with you. -Make good food decisions. They better you eat, the better you'll feel. Don't be a victim to the Freshman 15. -When you're feeling stressed, go to the gym. Run. Turn your mind off and just run, girl. -Manage your money. You really don't need that new top. You will need books next semester. -Apply for every scholarship you can right now. You have no idea how expensive college is. -Just be happy. Learn to let go and forgive. Learn to relax after a bad day.

Lesa

If I could talk to my high self and give advice I would tell her to go and travel for the summer and then come back and go to college. To stay in college and study whenever possible. That it is not forever but you need it to succeed in life. Alos, find out what you like. Do not settle on what everyone is telling you. If I would have listened to my inner voice I would have done culinary years ago. Also, livei n the dorms and not off campus for the first year. You will get to know people and be more inclined to study. The big one to understand is that guys are not your life. You have plenty of time to meet the right one and the college ones come and go. Wait until you are older to settle down.

Alana

Hey girl, things will get tough. You know what though? You're strong. Don't ever doubt yourself, because you can make it through. You'll have to study hard and make sacrifices, but you'll understand and appreciate it in the long run. Also, don't spend all of your money on Taco Bell every night. The cafeteria has awesome food, and it's free! You'll learn to love the meaning of that word soon. Another thing, don't try to keep up with people, especially if they don't make an effort for you. You don't have time to cry over silly things like petty people; you have bigger things to worry about...like calculus. Get as much help from students, professors, family and friends as you can; it will take you farther than you can imagine. Get involved, and stay on top of your school work, and you'll be just fine! You're going to LOVE college! Sincerely, Future you

Emily

Emily, Do not become a biology major. Choose Psych, it is so much fun and super interesting. You will thank me for this in the future after you barely pass chemistry. Good Luck!

Lauren

I would tell myself to make sure you schedule yourself a long enough lunch break, to get to class early, and apply for every scholarship you can find!

Brentin

The best thing I have gotten from my college experience is the abilty to stay focused. I have put so much effort to doing good in school and I really want to succeed in life. Being focused on a goal has brought me to a point now where I see a future. College has helped me see that I have to be dedicated and grounded to be a successful person. I have spent countless hours studying and preparing for classes and assignments. It is so rewarding to see the end results after I give my best in classes. I am a good student and I have what it takes to prepare and get through college. The most valuable part of school is that it opens doors for you and that is the most anyone can ask from an oppurtunity such as college.

Erica

To get a good job!

Lauren

I have gained an aspect of learning from several divisions of Life. Keeping academic success as a top priority and attending classes are extremely imperative. Attending the University of Louisiana at Monroe has been a valuable experience in the degree that finding a degree to suit me as an individual best is the key to a successful future.

Logan

I am so glad that I am attending college; "I now know what i want to do with my life." Now whenever people ask I tell them, I become like a little kid with excitement, " I am a Mass Communications major. I'm going to be a Producer!" Even whenever I actually was kid, it was never Ballerina or Doctor. It was either a Director or an Actress. I just never thought I would have the guts to go for it. However, as soon as I walked into my first college class and learned about Mass Communications, I knew that I had found my calling and myself. And while I realize that Mass Communications is just a start for me and my college career(I plan on going to grad school), I will always remember that MCOM class and that feeling I felt.

Jared

I know you want to enjoy your senior year by partying , having a good time, and doing anything and everything you want to do except study and make good grades, but you have to get your priorities in order. What you do now will determine how hard or easy your admission into college will be. If you make at least a 21 on the ACT and have at least a 3.0 gpa, you can just about write your own ticket into any school in the state and scholarship money and financial aid will be handed to you. I know it seems backwards, like the rich getting richer and the poor getting poorer, but that's just the way it is. Get your act together, make good grades, participate in extracurricular activities, volunteer...all of these things will make you a better person.

Ashley

Assuming I could go back in time and speak to myself about college life and the transition, I would have to make it is not at all a hard question. First, I would make myself aware of the different methods of teaching. Those things done in a high school class room do not follow you to college. For in high school you could really look to your teacher to help you out a lot more. But when you step out of the high school class room you step into the world of self dependence. For you have mostly yourself to rely on. And that itself is a big change. Second, I would explain to myself that things I felt came to me so easy, I would now have to really work at. For in high school, I maintained at least a 3.0 Grade Pont Average, never falling below. For with the aids of my teacher i caught on very swiftly. We could go over things as many times as needed and the pace was not as fast. And you really need to apply time to studying because in college there never seem to be enough time.

Tanasha

College is different from anything you have every experienced before. No one will be standing over you forcing you to study, and your new-found freedom is wonderful. With that freedom, though, comes responsibility. You must be very dedicated, and it will all pay off in the end. Be sure and emjoy the ride - have lots of fun, make lots of friends, and don't be too hard on yourself. This is a brand new world, and you are going to love it. Never get to the point where you are having too much fun to study, though. You are going to college to get an education and ultimately start a new and exciting career. College is what you make of it. If you take full advantage of the education that is offered to you, you will have a wonderful life and career. Going to college is a privilege, not a right. It should be treated as such.

Carmen

I would tell myself to stand firm in my beliefs. I would let myself know that when I arrived at college there would be a lot more people than what I was used to and not to let these new people influence me or change the way I think. I would tell myself to be more outgoing and make as many friends as possible. I would encourage myself to become more involved in campus activities. I would also tell myself not to slack off of my study habits. I would remind myself that even after college I may want to go back to school again, to specialize or get a Master's, and that I need to try my hardest to keep my GPA up while still having fun at the same time. I would advise myself to make decisions carefully. Most importantly, I would tell myself not to lose sight of God but to remain close by His side and really work to make my relationship with Him stronger because with God, anything is possible.

LaKeshia

If I was able to go back and tell myself something it would be to stay focused. I say the word focus because it can have many meanings to it. One reason I would tell myself this is because you have to have a clear mind and think things through when making decisions in college beause one decision can have an effect on your college career. Another reason I would say this is because majority of the time in high school you do not have to study for tests because you are given a study guide. That is not the case in college and I found that out the hard way by failing one of my first exams. Last but not least, I would've told myself as a senior to stay focused because with college comes alot of peer pressure to do things such as party, drink, smoke, and have sex. These few things can get you off track from your school work and once thats done it's very hard to get things back situated. Again, if i had a chance to tell myself this one word, it could have made a huge impact on my first semester

James

Follow my heart as to what I want to do for the rest of life, let my passion determine my major!

Casey

If i could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, knowing what I know about college life and making the transition I would advise myself to take school more seriously. College is very serious especially when you are paying for it, so you do not want to do poorly and have to pay for the classes again. I would also tell myself to be out going and meet as many people as I can. College is a once in a life expirence and you should always make the most of it.

Melvin

As you approach graduation I know there are many questions in which you ponder. What will college life be like? How will the test be? What should I major in? The best thing to remember is that college is the beginning of a new path just like high school; you will have your challenges and trials. Although the thought of college might be scary the reality is college will prepare you for the real world. The best thing to do in college is your absolute best. Never give up on the dreams that drive you everyday. The road will be filled with many pitfalls, but it up to you to strive for excellence for yourself. Many times you will not be rewarded for the good grades you get, but you must continue to do your best. Never let your dreams die. Always remember you are intelligent and can accomplish anything no matter what you are told. Stand firm on what you believe, and do not waver. Stay away from negative people they only want to take you down to their level. Lastly, remember with God all things are possible so don?t doubt . You will reach your goals just believe.

Jessica

If I could go back in time to talk with myself as a senior in high school, I would give myself an earlier advantage of knowing my future college experiences by first, telling myself that if a class gives me trouble, analyze the problem and take initiative. Hating the course or subject will only lower your grade. Look at the course from a different standpoint. For instance, you don?t understand your math coursework, so you ultimately hate the class. Try getting a tutor or help from the teacher. Maybe you?re not studying enough. Secondly, don?t be afraid to meet new people. Put yourself out there. The first night may feel lonely, but take the chance, and knock on your neighbor?s door. Those could become your best friends! Also, get involved on campus by joining different organizations. Finally, don?t let anyone or anything, including yourself, stop you from doing what you love.

Jessica

If I could go back in time to when I was a High School Senior and tell myself anything about college, I would warn myself of three things. Most importantly, I would tell myself to study. No matter how much I love spending time with my friends, if I don't study I could lose some of my scholarship and wouldn't be able to pay for tuition. Then I would tell myself to make sure I go to class, dont skip even one lesson. The classes may be boring, but it's information I will need in the future. The last thing I would tell myself is would simply be "Watch out for that last step in the Admin. building or you'll trip. There are more things I would tell myself . Things like not to spend all of my spare money at the Subway on campus, or remember to bring my heavy coat for Fall because it gets cold, or not to walk around campus alone when its dark. I would also have to warn myself about boys. Watch out for them; it's harder to pay attention in class when you're nursing a broken heart.

Rose

Assuming I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, advice I would give myself would be to never give up, give 120{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c}, and let myself know that it will not be easy in any context! College is hard! If you are not going for reasons of your own, or do not have your head immersed fully, you will fail or come up short of what you intended. You have to know what you want and be willing to work as hard as possible to achieve your goals! If you want to get good grades and be successful you have to know that the majority, if not all, of your time will be spent studying or be school related. Patience and hard work is a virtue! Also you have to be very driven and take initiative to get where you need to be. Nobody will just hand you anything. You have to work for everything you get and have!

Alexandra

If I could go back in time to talk to my high school senior self there would be many things I would warn myself. College was an experience that no one could have prepared me for. The first thing I would warn myself is that college isn't going to be as easy as I thought. College is hard work, not only with academics, but the transition into a new enviroment is quite difficult too. I came from a school and a city where in high school I was well known and had many friends. Attending colllege was a new experience for me and meeting people wasn't as easy as it was in high school. My advice to myself: be ready for new changes and be open to new people and new situations.

Natasha

You know what you want out of life. All you have to do is keep that in mind. Keep your head up...

Krystal

I would tell myself to be prepared for all of the studying! I would figure out a way to teach myself how to study better and to be disciplined enough to keep my mind focused. I would also tell myself not to worry so much about what people are going to say and to just live life and have fun! My college years are the years that I learn more resposilbilities and discover who I am and what I like to do!

Amber

I would tell myself it is a very bad idea to room with a friend, even if you had an understanding going in. I would also tell myself to not overload myself, it is way too easy to get burnt out.

Emily

I would advise parents and students to choose a college most similar to the student's high school. If a student is use to a large high school with a large graduating class, then they would most likely enjoy a big university. Whereas, a student, like myself, who only had about 35 people in their graduating class may enjoy a smaller community college. I came from a very small public school, but I still chose a university. I did this because I wanted to major in Pharmacy. Going from a school where everyone knows everyone, to a school where I meet or see someone new everyday was a big change. I also advise students, if they are single, to join sororities/fraternities, and other groups. These groups are excellent ways to make lifelong friends and become involved in their school. College is supposed to be the time of your life. I am married, therefore I am attending school strictly for educational purposes. I'm not that involved, because I have to pay for my schooling myself. Other students may not have to worry about working to pay for their schooling, thus they should make the most of it!

Emily

Find a college that is similar to your high school if you had a positive high school experience. If you didn't then choose a college that you think you will like. Attend all of the college functions. You will meet many people that are there for the same reasons you are. You will make friends and enjoy your college life. Focus on your studies, try not to party too much. College students MUST know how to manage their time and social life.

Justin

Find the school that your child feels most comfortable. Also, consider the costs and find the school that is accredited in their degree and that wont cost you a fortune for them to attend.

Brittney

I would advise parents to encourage their children to apply to several different schools that interest them, and to discuss the different atributes that each school has to offer. Parents should make their child feel supported in his/her decision. Next, I would advise students to pick the school that they think will make them the happiest. My second piece of advice to students is to concentrate on school work because it is tough and a lot is expected of you from your professors. Do not give up on a dream just because it seems difficult, if you love it stick it out and see where it can take. you. I also believe that getting involved is the most important part of college, aside from academics. By getting involved you can make lifelong friendships and connections, plus it makes the college experience that much more interesting and valuable.

Kallie

I would tell future students trying to make a decision about college that picking a college is not so much about the academics but more about how you feel while you are there.

Lindsey

DEVELOPE GOOD STUDY HABITS, STUDY A LITTLE BIT ALONG

Markeisha

My advice that I would give parents and/ or students about finding the right college and making the most of the college experience would be to attend a college that would work well with yourself. It wouldn't be a good idea to atted a college that you hated because then you wouldn't be able to make the most of the college experience because you would be miserable. Being miserable at a university wouldn't encourage one to do their best. Therefore, finding the right college could mean the difference between succeeding and not succeeding. Also one should make the most of the college experience because it only comes once and once you get out into the real world you don't want to feel that you missed out on not enjoying college life.

Jessica

The advice I would give to students is, first of all, do not let anyone pressure you to do something you do not want to do; including letting someone choose a major and/or an university for you. You should be the only one who knows what you want to do with your life. Since, in most cases, you will be the only one taking responsibility for your life if things take a wrong turn. Wouldn't it be better to know that you are in control of your own life and not others. If you let other people make your decisions for you, what will you do when they're not around you anymore?

Korey

Consider this college. It is friendly. Very convenient. Safe.

Joseph

Choosing the right college is as important as getting the degree. You need to find a college or university that enourages creativity and challenges students to use higher order levels of thinking. Simple application of knowledge is not enough to suceed in life; one must be challenged to make inferences or synthesis. Parents should also be aware of their financial situations. Loans are important, but should be avoided if possible. It takes a wise borrower, someone who is good with handling money to not go overboard in the borrowing process. Try to make the best of your college experience; making new friends and making aquaintances with your professors. You never know when you may need a professional reference. Having a professor as a reference on a job application or resume is always impressive.

Anna

College is not just about fun but it is not just about studying either. You have pick a school that will give you a good ballance of both. It must keep you foccused but at the same time we all need distractions now and then.

Jennifer

My advice to parents and students when searching for a college is to take your time. Find the right college. Don't settle. Too many students and parents get caught up in the college frenzy and wind up making a quick choice. Don't go to a college because it has a cheaper tuition, offers you a better deal, is flashy, etc. Find a school that fits the student. There are so many different qualities to consider other than just the features that get advertised. Spend time at the school. Talk to the students and audit some classes (not just one). You don't want to wake up in 4 years and wonder why you chose this school over another one. You may think that this is just the next four years of your life, but the memories and experiences you have during those four years will last your entire lifetime.

Trey

Get them involved with on-campus activities. Have them live on-campus. And get them a bike, as there are significantly more bike racks than parking spaces, and most are within 50 feet of the doors of the buildings.

Samantha

When parents and students are looking for a college to attend they should take into account the quality of the programs offered at each school, how far away the school is from home, and how comfortable the student would be on campus. To make the most of the college experience students should not have to work all the time. They should have time to study and just relax. Students should try to participate in some campus activities, such as tailgating and going to sporting events. Having a job does make a student more responsible and ready for the real world and is also a part of the college experience.

Lance

In our current era, every prospective student is in search of the 'right' college. However, there is no 'right' college for every student, since this question is purely subjective. There are several schools that most students could have a good experience at. The decision of finding the right one for you should be made on your values. Some people like school spirit, learning academically, partying, or just hanging out. The beauty of this is that there are options for all of this diversity. Basically, when choosing a college, go where your heart tells you, and do not just follow the crowd. Making the most of the college experience is important. These are suppose to be the best years of your life. Have a good time while in college. That being said, it is important to keep your eye on the prize. Do not let having fun interfere with your scholastic progression. After all, one goes to get a degree , and it is not a popularity contest. Most of your values and beliefs will be made during this time, so keep an open mind. At the same time, do not let anyone tell you what to believe. Decide for yourself.

Tameka

I would advise them to be sure that the location and the focus at the school agrees with the student's individual personality.

Kimberly

Don't every, under any circumstances take out loans from any where and af any kind to pay for school. Struggle if you have to, get a part-time or full-time job, but never take out a loan. Loans only add to bills once out of school. They cause you to miss out on enjoying spending your money how you want to spend it. It's not worth it. You actually wind up paying back all of the grants and scholarships you earned because the loans plus interest and principal you have to pay back is more than what the goverment "so called" gave you. You are actually giving it right back because you pay back what you borrowed and then some.

Nicole

I would advise parents to do a campus tour with the student and I would advise the student to research the school and participate in shadowing programs if they are available.

Molly

Make sure that the college you attend offers the career plan you want to continue with after school. Look at the amount of students who get jobs in the career feild they graduated from. Also see if the students are gradtauing in 4 years or if it takes them longer. Look at the amount of professors that are about research becasue that will effect the amount of effort they put into teaching you as a student.

Erica

I would advise parents to allow their child to pick the right school for them, and to search out scholarships that fit their child's major and capabilities. I would tell students to become as active as they can within their school and to live in the dorms for at least a year before moving off campus.

Kasey

When choosing a college, don't stress yourself out about what you will major in when you get to college, whether you believe you've decided or not. It's not set in stone and many people get to college and then find something they love and pursue that goal. When you are weighing your options about applying to different colleges, go to the colleges if you can and check them out. If you're meant to go to school there, then you should feel comfortable there. Once you've made your decision and you are living the college life, don't let yourself get caught up in drinking and partying during college, even though many people around you may be heavily engaging in it. Pay attention to your studies and make sure you focus on your schoolwork so you can succeed. You also, however, need to have fun while you are in college. College is largely about getting an education, but it's also about making friends and enjoying your youth (if you are a traditional student). If you learn to find a balance between academic focus and a healthy social life, then college will be a wonderful experience.