University of Louisville Top Questions

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

Samantha

I would tell myself back then to not worry so much about figuring out what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I would remind myself that even though everything seems like such a big deal when you graduate high school, it's just the beginning of your adult life; graduating is a part of life and you need to continue to focus while you're in school to get the rest of your life started. Don't worry so much if you don't have a plan. You're 17 years old; your plan will change a hundred times before you start to figure it out. Find someone that makes you happy and stick with your true friends and you will eventually figure out who you're supposed to be.

Addison

My college experience has guided me in many aspects of life. It has provided me with and extensive well-rounded education that allowed me to pursue several fields of interest while focusing on my anthropological studies. The variety of anthropology, history and religious courses that I was enrolled in provided a substantial outlook into many avenues to learn of the various historical and religious perspectives of both ancient and modern day cultures. I have obtained great friendships and professional connections with several of the faculty members. Their research has influenced my avenues of pursuit and cultural interests. The value of my college experience and education is one that is priceless in my mind. Without my education and experience through my university, I would not be where I am today. It has allowed me to grow as a person and really evaluate life and what it has to offer. Through all my studies and experiences I have realized what specifically I would like to pursue further in my career and how I can approach it from an anthropological perspective. Without my valuable education I would not be able to further pursue my career to a graduate and professional level.

Drew

In only a short amount of time I have aquired a wealth of information and knowledge that I will be able to use for the rest of my life.

Coni

My junior year at the University of Louisville, I was sitting in a Sociology of Murder class awaiting the arrival of my professor, and lo and behold a middle aged man (who could pass for actor Andy Garcia’s twin brother) came into the classroom. Dr. Shawn Schwaner entered the classroom with an old 1980s “boom box” on his shoulder with the sounds of “Let Me Clear My Throat” radiating through our ears. Dr. Schwaner made learning fun and interesting. He had such energy and passion in the classroom and I wanted to be able to give my future college students this same energy and passion for teaching. It wasn’t until the end of the class period that I realized what that one class meeting did for me—it made me believe in a dream. My dream was born in that moment and space in time. I was immediately fascinated by the idea that teaching in the college classroom could possibly alter learner’s lives, affect their appetite for learning, and perhaps even give them what Dr. Schwaner gave me—a dream. Had I not attended the University of Louisville, I wouldn't have had this opportunity.

Amania

I was blessed to turn 50 years old in 2010, although I may not be financially wealthy by some people's standards, I believe I am rich beyond my wildest dreams. Faith and family are most important, but education has done more for me than anything to help me grow and live life to its fullest. The University of Louisville provided a rich and diverse opportunity lto earn and be exposed to so many things. Although I didn't appreciate it that much at the time, it wasn't long after graduation that I realized the value of learning as much as you can--even learning about things unrelated to my field of study. I realize college is not for everyone, but I am committed to living the remainder of my life encouraging, supporting, and investigating opportunities for others to take advantage of the educational opportunities that help make their lives more focused, productive, rich, and philanthropic.

Caylen

As I type this my sons plays in the other room, he is almost 4 years old and in his few years here on earth has been both a joy and inspiration for me. I graduated high school at barely 18; I never would have believed it if someone had told me that by 23 I would still be working to earn my AA degree. In high school I was an honors student and graduated 4th in my class, yet when I reached Stetson University I was shocked to realize that it takes more than just being smart to pass a class. After several years of hard work and hard times the birth of my son showed me the importance of a real education and through the hardships prior to his birth I had learned the value of true hard work. As I entered back into college I realized that my intelligence was nothing without the hard work and determination needed to succeed. I have implemented a no fail mantra into my life because what I have learned at my college if I am determined to pass then I will and that is true for all things in my life.

Kristy

This student’s education in psychology has helped her develop a strong sense of self and purpose. Her undergraduate education led her to seek a Master’s degree in counseling. Through the Master’s program at Capella University, this student has been afforded an education that not only gives insight into how the human brain processes and internalizes stimuli, but how those processes can become problematic behaviors that can require the compassionate and competent hand of a professional. This student’s education will enable her to be an important contributing member of her community. Her education has taught her the importance of ethical behavior in the therapeutic setting, the need for increased mental health awareness in the workplace, and the importance of self-awareness. This student’s Master’s program has moved her from simply echoing expert opinions to researching and pondering those expert opinions to truly forming her own opinions. This student has taken on an internal responsibility for personal and professional growth. She has begun that process by becoming a member in the American Counseling Association, reading journal articles in her free time, networking with experienced professionals in her field, and taking her education seriously.

Jessica

College has taught me self-motivation and time management. Both have shaped, and will continue to shape, me into a hard worker and ultimately a better person. I plan on attending medical school after undergraduate school. I want to attend medical school at UofL and getting my undergraduate degrees there increases my chances of being accepted. The study skills that I have learned so far will help me for the rest of my education.

Jordan

My college experience has enriched my life in multiple aspects. It has been mentally engaging and I've learned so much in just a couple semesters because of the wide array of classes offered at UofL. It has been physically enriching because of the student gym and healthy food options. On the social side, I've made many new friends and developed professional relationships with campus staff and faculty. They're all dedicated to helping me succeed and truly go out of their way to see that I do. I've become a tutor on campus, which has taught me that teaching only helps you better understand your major. It's also been valuable to attend UofL because of the future opportunities provided to me by obtaining a double major in History and English, allowing me to reach my ultimate goal of becoming a history professor (preferably at UofL of course).

James

The college experience has provided me with an opportunity to be amongst some extremely bright and intelligent individuals. In the process, I have been able to grow as a person and will, upon completion of my education at the University of Louisville, be able to go out into the world and to give back. I have been enlightened by some of the most phenomenal scholars, met lifetime friends, and have been exposed to many cultures and traditions. Hard work and discipline pays off, and add time management and a little fun, and college has been a blast.

Joseph

I start going to Career College of Northern Nevada on November 29th for the Pharmaceutical Technician course. I think the experience will be positive and very rewarding, despite the difficulty of the course. It will give me the opportunity I need in difficult times by getting started in a field that's in high demand once I graduate. It doesn't get more valuable than that.

Toni

I think I've really grown more as a person. U of L makes the transition not only from high school to college a lot easier, but the transition to being an adult as well. This whole experience has been valuable for me because it doesn't put near as much of the pressure on you as high school did, and every professor really encourages their students to do well and make something out of themselves, no matter who you are or where you're from. If you're struggling, the professors, and even your classmates are willing to do almost anything to help you succeed because one thing that sets U of L apart from other schools is that everyone cares.

Mathew

Education has greatly enriched my own life as well as the lives of others around me. I can think of no greater feeling than taking joy in living one's life. And although education isn't the only means by which this can be accomplish, it is infinitely helpful. I have experienced this with small success's like going from a high school drop out to a first generation college student with an 84 credit 4.0 GPA. To larger success's like helping my siblings take pride in their own life, and in their own education, all three of which are now enrolled in college pursuing their dreams. That is the greatest feeling that I have ever experienced and it continues to inspire me daily. One day I hope to make films. Regardless, having the ability to pursue this dream through education is a blessing that I am so very grateful for.

marissa

The value of my college experience is so much more than book value (albeit it could be said that textbooks are priced way too high). I have lived, learned, and grown more in the past two years than I have the rest of my life. Although obtaining a degree and moving onto a career with power and prestige are my ultimate goals, I can honestly and wholeheartedly say that it is not all that I received. I have received preparation for the rigor that is to come. I have made or retained friendships that will last a lifetime. Most importantly, I cemented and made real a plan to achieve the dream of my childhood: to change the world.

Emily

My college experience has given me the opportunity to take hold of my life. I joined ROTC as anursing major at the University of Louisville and became a part of a community I feel at home with. I have found ways to be independent and successful, and feel safe: all things I previously doubted were possible.

Steven

My college experience so far, is something to remember. All the people i have met would be a good network for later one

Adrianne

My college expierence has been unreal. I joined a sorority, and I feel much more successful already. I came out of my shell, and grew as a better person. I broke a lot of bad habits, and made better choices. College has affected me positively. It's valuable to attend because you learn so much about yourself. College gives you a better education; in more ways than one. You are able to learn and build a career for yourself, and you're able to learn about yourself and who you are. You learn what kind of person you will become. College is a journey about finding yourself, and creating yourself.

Emma

I have created a fantastic network of friends that I know I will stay connected to for years and years to come. The relationships built among individuals at the University of Lousiville are powerful and unique in no small part because of the diversity on this campus. Louisville's Belknap campus is the most diverse campus I have ever been on, and it is glorious. There are students here representing every race, religion, lifestyle, and ideology. Learning from people different from myself is an experience I would not change for anything. Furthermore, the University of Louisville strives to give its students opportunities to study abroad through myriad scholarship opportunities, and I am incredibly eager to take advantage of this in the coming years. Listening to representatives from the study abroad program speak truly communicates how I can go anywhere I want to, and the funds are out there to do it at minimal cost to me. The University of Louisville is truly the place for me, and for any student that wishes to expand his or her horizons past those of the town in which they were born. The exposure to other cultures is one of a kind.

Jacqueline

My college experience has taught me more about myself that any job or relationship could. I have learned a lot about what it means to be me, what I like and don’t like, and most importantly how to be a professional in today’s world. I have attended two universities and currently an art school. The first university taught me that you are not always going to fit in and some times you have to try harder to be noticed. This university was a highly Greek campus and, unfortunately, I was unable to rush because of money. I had a hard time meeting people because Greeks only associate with Greeks. I had to learn other ways of breaking the ice with these people. My second university taught me that forcing yourself to do something you don’t like isn’t going to make your GPA pretty. Finally, the art school has taught me to stand on my own two feet, depend on only yourself, and be true to what you love. All of these experiences have made me well rounded and more suited to live on my own and be in the business world.

Rebecca

I have gained a sense of independence and accomplishment that I would have missed out on had I not decided to attend college. Graduating with my degree (and continuing on to a 4-year university) will give me the confidence I need to secure gainful employment and enjoy a general sense of well-being. Before I attended college I felt "less than" others that were currently attending college or had already completed a post-secondary degree. Now, even though I started attending school well after my peers were finished, I finally feel like more of an equal to them. Maintaining a 4.0 GPA while enrolled in school has made me feel even more confident in my level of intelligence. Having confidence in myself will make me more successful in the future as well as a happier individual in the here and now. It was very difficult to jump back into school as an adult student, but I feel that I am able to take school much more seriously now than I would have immediately after high school graduation. My college experience may be different from my peers but it has still been an integral part of my "growing up".

Nathalie

Before I attended college I was a typical highschool student wondering how my future will unfold. Everything during my senior year in highschool seemed so difficult because all everybody can think about is, "What are your plans?," "How are you going to prepare for yourself financially?" Counselors would drown the students in questions that they don't know how to answer yet. When I finally attended college I experienced a lot of work and responsibility. I learned to understand life itself and how things don't just come to you. Instead you have to come towards the stuff you want and need. My experience has taught me how to budget and how to save money in order to be able to continue my college career. My experiences has helped me grow and develop a better mature state of mind. College has been valuable because there has been so many lessons that I have learned. College helps you realize that you have to get your life together and plan your future for the better. College is what unfolds your future. It helps you become a better person once you accomplish your goal.

Samantha

The University of Louisville has opened my eyes to career opportunities, cultural opportunities, religious opportunities, and so much more. The University of Louisville holds their students to the highest expectations, and walks their students through meeting those expectations. UofL openly provides endless resources, including free tutoring, office hours, health services, healthy food services, social services, safety services, etc. Personally, I have received the most encouragement from the staff at the School of Music at UofL. They have built my self confidence and my inter-personal skills. To these select individuals, I owe my loyalty and respect. Also at UofL, I have been given every opportunity to develop lasting relationships with the people I am surrounded with. These people will be co-workers, and I believe that it is of the up-most importance to maintain a positive, healthy relationship with my fellow classmates.

Patrick

The college experience so far has been visiting colleges, applying and then going to the orientation for the U of L. It is clear that in order to work as an Engineer a college degree is required. The U of L is the college that I feel most comfortable attending. I am thrilled that in 5 years I will earn an ABET certified Masters degree and also gain 3 semesters of co-op experience.

Anna

My college experience has given me confidence and passion. This is my second degree, and my reasons to attend have been in order to support my family, and to participate in the Healthcare field. I have already gotten more out of this experience than I expected. University of Louisville's REACH student tutor program accepted me as one of their tutors for Anatomy and Physiology, Pharmacology, and Pathophysiology. This program provided me with training on various approaches to learning that I have never been exposed to before. This knowledge, combined with the enhanced understanding of the classes I supported, the personal support and interaction with the professor and staff of the REACH program, and the success of my tutees have been the best experience I have had while attending any school to date. I am so thankful for this experience. While returning to school has involved many sacrifices on my part and the part of my family, I would do it all over again in an instant. The connection to my community at large in addition to the knowledge I have already gained means so much as I am not originally from Kentucky. Thank you, University of Louisville!

melissa

I have just begun at this school but so far I have gotten a lot out of it. The staff at the school are all very nice and help you with anything and everything I am learning is just amazing. I have been in and out of different colleges but I have a very good feeling about this one. I struggled with what career path I wanted but now that I know what I want to do with my life I know that this school is going to get me there and I am so excited to keep going along on my educational journey. This school is very valuable to me because now that I am older I value my education and I know this school will give me a very valuable education.

Adam

I believe that going to college really put things into perspective for me. You have to have a college education to succeed in today's society and there is a reason for that. College has taught me about the importance of leadership, time management, puncuality, and project management. It has also allowed me to experience different areas of interest that I was unfamiliar with, such as sociology and philosophy. College has given me the tools to succeed by providing me with the knowledge of all the different aspects of the field of study I am in. However, the best experiences that I have gotten out of college is the openness to diversity, others' opinions and ideas, working with other students, and knowing there is a support structure there for you when you really need it.

David

i have learned how my education can help me be successfull a many fields and that some feild of work require more education to be successfull than others. Most importantly i have learned that i will have to be tenacious to get to where i want to be in life .

ryan

I have learned How to apply myself to my work and really learn, not just memorize enough to pass a test. I have really developed as a person and i feel greatly enriched by the time I have spent in school and can't wait to start working directly toward my major next fall.

Brittney

Going to college has definitely been beneficial for me in many ways. Even going to a community college, I still have gained a great college experience. I have taken classes that I hated, that I have loved and quite a few that I will not forget. I learned that the mentality of a class is heavily based on the professor. Our school is filled with all kinds of teachers, and it is very liberating to have a professor who is very passionate about their work. Most of the time, they are what makes the class worth while.

Alexis

College has been an unforgettable experience so far. In the past three years I have learned a substantial amount not only in the classroom, but also just being a part of the "college life". I graduated from a small high school, with only 44 students in my graduating class. Even though I attend a community college, it is still a whole different world from what I was used to. I see so many different cultures, races, cliques, and clubs everyday. The vast amount of diversity allowed me to learn respect and honor. I was fortunate enough to participate in collegiate volleyball and track for my first two years. After all of the traveling for competitions, I become close with many different student-athletes. All of them had different stories and backgrounds, and after months of being together, it helped me grow and learn as a young adult. The past three years has been such a valuable experience. I know these are the years I will never forget. I still have two more years before obtaining my Bachelor's Degree in Exercise Science, however I know that I will continue to mature and excel everyday until then; and after!

Shelby

One thing I've gotten is maturity. In high school, I thought I was pretty mature, but when I got to college I realized how wrong I was. There's something about the college experience that makes you grow up, which I like. Also, I've learned discipline. Like I've said, I breezed through high school, and when I got to college, I really learned how to sit down, study and get everything done. I'm so glad that I've gotten to experience what some people can only dream of. I'm so thankful that i've gotten the opportunity to go to college and gain the discipline and maturity that I have.

Ricky

During my college years I have encountered lots of learning experiences and habits that will follow me the rest of my life. College has taught me how to prioritize evrything. This is something that is definitley needed in the work force. "Playtime" is not even in my vocabulary anymore. I have gained work ethic. No matter how hard or how tired I am, im going to do it because it has to be done. I feel like i finally got the grasp of what being an adult is all about. I have added depth to my personal morality. i'm used to dealing with diverse groups of people now. I am able to walk up and hold a conversation with any type of person.College itself has prpared me for any obstacle I may encounter in life and I'm ready to face it with out fear. If you can get through college, you can get through anything!

Josie

I have learned so much about the world around me and how it functions. I'm not just talking about the "real world" dealing with jobs and bills. I also learned a lot about our society and how it functions. I discovered new theories and ideas about why we think the way we do and I have learned to question everything in order to learn more. I have gotten ideas on what I can do to make a difference to people in our community. A College education expands your thoughts and better prepares one to live in the "real world". It also helps to round an individual socially, which comes in handy when dealing with the public or work relationships. I love going to school and learning something new each day, you know what they say about an idle brain!!

Jynna

If I travelled back in time and had a discussion with my younger self about college, I would warn myself that I need to buckle down and get out of the habit of procrastinating. If I were able to do this, I wouldn't feel as stressed out about college as I do now. When I look back on things, I really wish I had gotten out of this habit sooner because it's really hurting me. Sure I can get the work done, but the stress it puts on me is breaking me down. I'm trying to get through this habit and start getting my homework and studying done as soon as I can, but it takes time. So if I were to go back in time and talk to myself about college, that would be my advice to me. It seems like such a simple word of advice, but it makes all the difference.

Ayita

I would tell myself to really think about what career I want and how to go to school without getting into debt. I probably wouldn't had accepted student loans offered and I would have focused more on me and what career choice best fits my personality. Instead of trying to please others in choosing a major, I would have pursued courses that I found personally enlightening.

Anissa

When you first arrive at college, it may seem that everyone is lying about how difficult college is compared to high school and that your professors will not try and help you. Make sure not to disregard the warning of the difficulty of college, because you are graded soley on exams in most classes, which is what makes it difficult. However, do not worry about your professors not being there and willing to help you, because most of them will always offer to help.

Maggie

As a high school senior and, until now, I was always so stressed about everything; my job, finances, homework, sports, and, especially, my future. I had everything planned out... down to every class until I graduate. My academic advisor even said I stressed her out by being so ambitious and organized! However, I recently returned from a semester abroad in Barcelona, Spain. The decision to study abroad was very stressful financially. But, now, I realize it was a life-changing experience that shapes the person I am today. I have learned to relax and become more free-spirited. I prioritize my time much better and realize that life will simply work itself out. I have decided not to finish a year of graduate school during my undergraduate career and simply see where life takes me. Thus, from where I am today and where I was as a high school senior (who, at the time, had TMJ and medical yoga because of stress), I would tell myself that I need to take a breath, relax, and life will take its course. I need to stop worrying so much about my future and enjoy college! This is the time of my life.

Hillary

One piece of advice that I would give myself is to stop pleasing other people and do the things that you want to do. Just because your friends are going to one place and they want you to come along doesn't mean that you should follow them. You should do what you want to do, be who you want to be, and go where you want to go.

Brittany

If I could go back in time and give my self advice about college and making the transition, I would defenitly of told myself to pick my college earlier. Also to Apply for as much stuff as possible because college is a very stressful thing and money is hard to come by. I also think I would have to myself to maybe to not be as worried about whats going everywhere and focus on what was right for myself. College has defenitly been a big transition in my life and has been very stressful, but it has also taught me a lot about myself and what I can do. I think that students in their senior years need to focus on what they really want and make it happen.

Andrea

Think about it. Really decide if this is where you want to go. Dont walk into college thinking that what you wanted to do when you were in high school is what you will always want to do. Dont forget about your high school friends, dont forget that making friends is just as important as the school work. Dont leave school. its hard to go back.

Tiffany

If I could go back in time as a high school student, I would have pushed myself to do more academically. College is very expensive and if i would have kept my GPA up I know i would have been able to recieve a scholarship. Now that i know how important grades are I am pushing myself each semester to do the best that I can, hoping that a scholarship will be awarded to me. School is very important to me to complete and right now I am depending on loans to get me through college and where I want to be. In addition, If i could go back in time I would be involved im more extracurricular activities. It would have increased and bettered my verbal skills. There were many things I enjoyed and was good at , such as sports, but I didnt push my self to get involved. Getting involved in high school is very important because you get to meet many people also it would have looked good on resumes.

alisha

Friends will not always stay the same. Know what major you want to do before going in because it really does matter. Be involved as much as possible.

Stephen

If i could go back in time and give myself some advice about the transition to college i would tell myself to relax. In retropsect the experience wasn't nearly as horrifying as i made it out to be. The amount of stress i unreasonably put my self through was alot of energy that could have been put to better things.

Christy

I would advise myself to stress a lot less and enjoy my time at college a lot more.

Rachel

If I could go back in time and talk to myself about choosing a college, I would let myself know its ok to be unsure of where to go. You just have to go with your gut feeling. During your first you are are still unsure if you made the right decision or not. The best thing to do is to do your research. Check out the neighborhood around the school. Look at things that you could do on the weekend or in your time in between classes. If nothing interests you maybe this isn't the place for you. Also make sure you are true to yourself. Don't force yourself to like a school just because your parents like it or all of your friends are going there. Make sure you make the decision for yourself. You are the one who has to attend school there for the next few years of your life. If you aren't happy when you make the final decision, chances are you may not like it in the end. Why put yourself through that kind of misery just to make someone else happy? Do what feels good to you.

On'Draya

Stay focused and make sure that I understand the importance of time management and organization. I would focus solely on securing my footing in life and less on helping uplift others. I lost sight of that in being involved, relationships and life. Also I would tellmyself to prepare for life, because you never know where it may take you. No one really tells you these things when your preparing for college its mostly about keeping a good GPA, or getting a job or securing your place in grad school. While all these things are great I feel that when your not prepared or willing to understand life and its's obstacles it can throw you for a loop. Lastly, I would tell myself that there is nothing that I can't do and should not attempt to do if I am determined to succeed. Also never let a temporary situation or circumstance define who and what I am.

Savion

Assuming that I had the opportunity to go back into time and advise myself, my first bit of advice would be to appreciate those that have gotten you thus far. Be humble for the opportunities that you are given, because many are denied the chance of gaining a higher education. Secondly, I would say, to be more open to ideas and opinions that differ from that of your own. There are so many different types of people in the world, and if you're not willing to expand your mind, then you could possibly miss out on someone that could have enhanced your life. Education is something that so many take for granted. It's not a right but more of a priviledge. Take advantage of networking opportunities, get involved in student organizations and more importantly, don't be afraid to stand out above the crowd. Be the leader, set your own standards and follow your dreams. No one can get in your way but you. Be the change that you seek, even if that means you have to stand alone. Life is what you make of it, so make sure you're leaving a path worth following.

Rachel

If I could go back and visit myself in High School, I would give myself a pat on the back. I'd start by saying that college life is not as hard as I think that it will be, because as a college student, different types of people surround you. College is really just a gathering of diverse people from very different places and walks of life, all coming together with the same goals, and that is to learn. Every person that you meet at college is on a different path, but all of us heading towards a brighter future with more options and choices. I would tell myself,? Don?t wait," there's no reason to not go to college immediately, because you will discover a new person who will emerge a stronger, healthier, happier individual, with more direction. College gives you the ability to spread the wings of creativity and dabble in all things beautiful and fun. So while on this journey of self-discovery you can find the perfect hobbies that turn into careers that turn into your future...

Andrew

If I were to go back in time and speak to myself as a high school senior, I would be sure to tell myself three things; to change my study habits, to apply for as many scholarships as I could, and to learn how to manage my time more efficiently. My study habits from high school just are not going to cut it in college. Cramming each night before a test is a stressful and inefficient way of preparing for an exam, in college I would have to start preparing at least a week before each exam. Also, scholarships can be extremely important for attending college, it is expensive to go to a large university and any scholarships awarded could help me succeed academically and keep me motivated to gain more knowledge. Lastly, I would tell myself to work on my time management skills, there will be times in college where I will not be able to go out with friends on a Saturday night but rather go to the library and get some more study hours in. I would also need to manage my homework and get it done efficiently so that I am on track for each class.

Hannah

If I were to gpive myself advice as a high school senior there are a few things I would want to tell myself. I would tell myself to take standardized tests as often as possible. It's worth the money spent to help you get the scholarships to pay for school. Also I would tell myself to do massive amounts of volunteer work. Universities love seeing volunteer work on applications. Lastly I would tell myself to save as much money as possible. Having a job as a Freshmen in college is very difficult. If you can save money before hand life will be much easier.