University of Maine at Farmington Top Questions

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

Julianne

Dear high school self, College is everything that you had imagined. Your professors adequately challenge you as you had hoped, and they appreciate your personality and talents as your high school teachers always had. Do not fear taking the next step forward into the unknown. Take a step out of your comfort zone right away, for it will be well worth it. Instead of taking a couple of months to step out of your dorm room and relying on those you met previously, immediately take the time to step out and make new friends. You will not regret it. Also, do not be afraid of overwhelming yourself with too much to do. You will have more time than you expected. Join more clubs and make more friends, for you still will have time to maintain your studies without stress. Lastly, enjoy your time at college. Do not be afraid to make mistakes. It is the time to live, laugh and learn.

Courtney

College is a full time job. You will have very little down time throughout the semester but it will eventually slow down and the semester will end. You will feel 'homesick' because you wont see any of your family or friends but it will be okay. You're going to feel like quitting but don't, it will end. Make daily phone calls home to stay in contact with people outside of school. Do homework ahead of time not the night before. If you save it till last minute you will be stressed and overwhelmed, make your life easier and do it when it is assigned. College is not highschool, you are paying for your education so study and study hard because if you fail, it is a waste of your money. College is not easy and it will test you on so many levels, but keep pushing because in only 16 weeks the semester will be over and you'll have a few weeks to prepare and recuperate for the upcoming semester.

Wyatt

Dear past Wyatt, As you move out of high school, the one thing I want you to do is explore the world around you as much as you can. Exploration will help you grow as a person, no matter how you do it. When you explored a job at a state park without any prior work experience there, it convinced you that working outside in nature is what you want to make the rest of your life about. Deciding that you wanted to travel to Costa Rica to learn Spanish made you much more self-sufficient and independent, gave you an appreciation of other cultures, and was one of the most fun things you've ever done. Having adventures and trying new things has built you into a new person, who better understands what he wants out of life. However small the adventure, it has taught you something about yourself. Adventures have also frightened you, made you uncomfortable, and made you doubt yourself. This is precisely why they have helped you to grow, strengthened you, and inspired you. So keep exploring! If something you want to do scares you a little bit, then attack it with everything you have.

Rachel

Join the Dance team. Join German club. Start a club. Get to know the people who live in your building, they're more interesting than they seem when all you do is nod as you pass them on the stairs. When you go to meals, sit with as many different groups as you can, and really listen to what the conversation is. You can learn a lot on campus, most of it for free. Go to campus events, plan for the sponsored trips that are free to students. Immerse yourself in the life and make (minor) mistakes. The memories are worth it, and so are the friendships. You'll still graduate on time. Your GPA won't suffer, you work hard anyway. And breathe. It's OK if you have a bad semester or two. You'll recover--why would anyone be sad about "only" graduating with a 3.5 GPA? That's an acheivement! You're strong and resourceful, and most of all, you're resillient. You'll be OK. You'll have bad days, and good days, and you'll miss your parents and friends, but you'll make it and you'll wonder where the time went.

Lindsey

Younger me, it's two years later. Don't overstress, don't overthink, let go. You're having fun now, and the moment you leave Calais, you're going to lear more about yourself and you're going to spread your wings. Younger me, stop fretting over chemistry and math, just get through them, one day those classes won't even matter. Two years later, financially things will be tough, but it's nothing you're not used to, but I'm saying this now as preparation, you got this. Younger me, you're going to lose friends, and it's going to hurt, but you're going to meet so many new people that it'll help you heal. Keep your head above water, you're a warrior, you've already defeated the hard stuff, now live and win.

Eliza

1) You don't think that location and dorms are very important, but they are. Any program you go to is going to be a new experience. Any program is going to teach you. Not all places will suit you, and not all dorms are very good. The more comfortable you are in the location of your school, and the dorm where you're going to live, the happier you will be. 2) Take your time. When you visit (and you should visit) ask questions. Better yet, have questions ready before-hand. Look around the dorms, check out the cafeteria or food court (eat there if you can), and focus on how comfortable you are. How exciting it is to be in this place. If it's exciting, but still comfortable, then it's a good fit. 3) You don't need all that stuff! Go minimalist, then add to that if you need to. 4) Enjoy the attention. Be confident. Show schools that you have a brain and a spirit that they want.

Thomas

Embrace the unknown. Too many people fear change. Know that God is real and that he has been working within you and around you already. Education is life. As a high school student, motivation has not been you friend. After high school, no one will remind you when something is due or that you should be working on your essay all semester long. You control your education and it is up to you to decide what it means to you. High school comes easily to you; most of school has been that way. In college, though, there are unknowns. You don’t know what will happen, but that shouldn’t scare you. Unknown may not mean anything bad, but it may mean change. Change is what you make of it. It can be great if you want it to. People do learn from mistakes because learning is a constant. Life is full of lessons and education does not just happen in the classroom. College makes that perfectly clear. Lastly, among everything you experience in college, the most vitally important and predominantly clear is the truth of God’s existence. You have passions and He will help you find them.

Kassaundra

Don't buy everything the internet says you need for college! You don't need have of it, that closet bar extender you'll never end of using. Do not room with your two best friends from High School, it won't end well and it'll segregrate you from meeting cool new people. Get out there and meet people, talk to them, ask them to hang out, join clubs. The more you get involved straight away the better it will be, don't wait to see how everything works, just jump right in and make new friends! Remember this isn't High School and the professor aren't going to baby you and remind you about your assignments, this rarely happens, its truly is on you and isn't a myth your high school teachers used to make you be more responsible! But most importantly make the best out of it, focus on your studies, but don't hide yourself away.

Mariah

The first thing I would tell myself is, learn how to sleep with earplugs. Then I would tell myself to go buy earplugs. Dorm halls are noisy and it's difficult to adjust to so many people making so much noise after living and sleeping in such a quiet place. I would also tell myself not to worry about my room mate- the one I have this semester is so chill and low key. We're not close but we don't feel like we have to be and that's important. Finally, I would tell myself the same thing a cashier once told me after she learned I was a freshman in college- don't get too comfortable swiping your debit card.

Jennifer

Dear Self, So, right now you are about to graduate from high school and I know how excited you are. The thing is though, I know that you are also doubting how next year will go. I want you to know that it is not that bad. You just need to put yourself out there. Say hello to people as they walk in to class, make small talk with them. This will only gain you friends. Also, get out of the dorm as often as you can. So you math homework. Trust me. It will help. Apply for scholarships! I know it takes a while but you will regret not doing it soon eough! And above all else, try to enjoy it. I know that University of Maine at Farmington, is not the school for you. You will figure that out soon. But try. You will be there for a year, and the last thing you are going to want that time to be is misrable.

Aurora

If I were able to go back in time, and give myself advice as a high school senior I would give three statements. First, I would advise that I enroll into the local postsecondary program. I was hit hard by the shock of college coursework, and I wish I had enrolled in the postsecondary program as a high school student. Second, I would advise that I learn proper studying skills before attending college. In high school I was not required to do any significant amount of studying, whereas in college the amount of studying and the depth of studying is far more involved than I was prepared for. Finally, I would advise that I cherish the memories made during my high school years, because the next four years or so are going to be filled with "all-nighters," lots of studying, more detailed homework, and less free time. I wish I could go back and inform myself of these necessities; however, the lessons I have learned from these rude awakenings will be vital to the rest of my college years, and beginning of my career.

Jennifer

Dear Senior Jenn, Right now you are probably sitting in Ms. Dos Anjos's class filling out college applications, exciting huh? Well, after a year in college there are a few things you would know. One: Dear God do your homework! Not only will it keep your overall grade up, you will be able to pass those tests more easily. Two: Making friends will require you to leave your dorm. You shouldn't be shy, most everyone at school is nice. Just say hi! Three: Make sure you pick a school that you REALLY want to go to. You do not know it yet, but attending the University of Maine Farmington was a huge mistake. Four: Do not go home every weekend. It will make transitioning in to college much easier. Good Luck! Your Future Self, Jenn

Megan

The University of Maine at Farmington is a hidden gem of a school. It has a great history to the school and is still nationally recognized for the quality of the education provided here. I am a Secondary Education major with my concentration in history, the staff associated with my major has been absolutely amazing. I never feel lost here because there is always someone to help whenever I need it. So far I have been very blessed to attend UMF because I am being given an opportunity to expand my horizons and prepare for a successful career as a teacher. It has been so valuable to attend this school because I know if I work hard and graduate, my life will be full of happiness and success.

Sara

Although it sounds cliche to say this, I truly found myself through my college experience. I entered into college not really knowing myself. I knew myself through others' eyes, as the athlete and the girl who got good grades. I didn't know myself beyond that. College really tested my limits and I made a lot of mistakes. But, through those mistakes I was able to find myself and find my own path. I was able to persevere through great trials and tribulations; I have come out a better person because of my experiences at college. I have found that I am a tough person, a hard worker, a passionate supporter of athletics, a compassionate mentor, and I found out how much I really need to be there for other athletes who had a hard time in college (with alcohol) like I did. I found that I need to be there for those athletes who struggle with this issue. So, why has it been valuable? Because, through my experience, and in my lifetime, I will be able to change the lives of others. Without my own pain and troubles in college, I never would have been able to do that.

Katherine

During my time at UMF I have learned that no matter how many classes you take or clubs you join, if you're not true to yourself your college experience will not be a good one. I've learned that my passion is in politics, and because of that I've changed my major. The atmosphere of campus was vital to that decision. My professors have encouraged growth, and have given me numerous networking opportunities. Without the people I've met and the classes I've taken and the clubs I've joined, I wouldn't have had the opportunity to work on several winning campaigns, or to visit Washington, DC, or discover who I am as a person. I credit UMF to helping me become the person I am today.

Gabrielle

College has helped me to learn more about myself and what I want to do with my life. I come from a rural town with little diversity, and when I walk across campus and see people of all races, religions, styles, and attitudes, I feel comfortable in my own skin. I have taken a plethra of classes that have affirmed by belief that psychology is what I am meant to do with my life. Through college I have found myself and my future.

Kelly

The biggest thing that I have gotten out of my life in college is in the opportunity to meet other like-minded people. I am an English major, everyone else in my major shares the same passion as I do for Literature. I also met many great professors. As I have continued through college I have met many amazing people, these people are usually educated and able to hold their own in a strong conversation also. The students in my major share the same love as I do and are easy to talk to and make friends with because of these connections. In our high school years we don’t have the opportunity to meet people from a group of all the same interests. So college is better in this way because we get to make new connections which we never had the opportunity to make before. In college we also have the opportunity to meet teachers which are all in this connection group also. These teachers are positive role models for students because they represent who students aspire to be. Students have the ability to make educational connections in different age groups, and yet they all share similar interests.

andrea

i have had a lot of fun

Katie

The most valuable part of my college experience has not been my classes, but the connections I have made with other students and professors. Not all students here are like minded, but it was easy to find accepting and interesting friends that I know I will remember for the rest of my life.

Callie

If I could talk to the high school senior me, I would say this: "going out of state isn't going to be that hard. In fact, leaving the comfort of your home state and the closeness of your family will help mature you and help you come out of your shell much faster and easier. Moving away from home, whether it is the next state over or across the country will do wonders for your personality and your confidence. Also, think about how much you love writing. Please consider that a viable option for your major instead of interior design because interior design is not for you. It will only cause you to take way more art classes than you will ever need to take and in the end you will discover that it is not a good career path for you. Take it from me, writing is your passion and you will enjoy pursuing that field much better. If you follow my advice you will only go to college once and therefore, Mom and Dad will help you pay for it instead of having to pay for it yourself when you are older and completely independent."

Crystal

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself that I should take the time to work on papers and to find time for myself. You become so wrapped up in everything else that you can lose focus.

Alaina

Dear High School Senior Self, It is customary, seemingly logical and certainly easy to develop senioritis during this final year of high school and slack off a little, cuz you know, everyone does it ! (Including you um, I mean me). Besides, you've earned this little reprive - right?? Well, this is your college freshman self to tell you . . . "NO !" As seductive as it is/was to slack off, take it easy, let things slide and relax just a little (everyone needs a breather after all), please, stick to the routine. Continue to be involved with your school and your community - volunteering is especially important. Continue to work (you do have a job), and save as much money as you are able to. (college isn't cheap you know). Continue to fill out college scholarship applications, because the only sure way not to win a scholarship is not to apply for a scholarship. Living on campus is awesome. Being responsible for yourself is at once exhilirating and scary. College homework is demanding, but not overwhelming as long as you disipline yourself to keep on track (remember - DO NOT get behind on the french journal). College is your next grand adventure ! ENJOY !

Jessica

"It's not as hard as you might think." All throughout high school I was told that college is so much harder than high school, harder than you can imagine. Hearing that all the time made me have doubts about my ability to make it in college, that I wasn't smart enough. So I strived for better grades and my way through many obstacles to get to where I am now, only to find out, college is easy! If you study hard instead of going out to party every night, then .college is going to be a much smoother ride, easier than you can imagine

Daniel

There isn't much I can think of that I would say to myself had I chance to go back and do so because my experiences in becoming accustomed to this new way of living seem to be an important part of the entire college experience. If students are 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} prepared for what's coming in college, I believe many would opt out of going for it because although the experiences have been influential and have changed how I go about my daily life, they've been both positive and negative. In my opinion, there are some students, including myself during my senior year, that are so interested in going to college with the view that it's all going to be one positive experience. If it weren't for this false view at the orientation of the chosen college, I wouldn't have enjoyed it as much as I could have. If I had the chance to go back and give myself advice, it would simply be to remain calm and know that whatever happens in the next four years, it's for my own good.

Amy

Please, relax, and do not worry about "knowing what I want to do with the rest of my life." There are plenty of resources and guidance along the way. Patience is a virtue. Immerse yourself in your community as much as you can. Take anything that stems your interest in your first year. If something is particularly fascinating, do not be afraid to tackle it. You gotta' take risks in this life. Do not live for anyone else but you and your own dreams and goals. This is merely another chapter in your life. Take a deep breath and be daring. Try something new, while you're at it. And smile at those who look sad!

Kiley

With the opportunity to go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would emphasize the importance of pacing myself. I would encourage myself to pace myself in my academic studies and social development. I would suggest that I spend enough time on my studies; however, to also allow time for myself to become involved in campus and community activities and clubs. Through the involvement in extracurricular activities, I would have the opportunity to develop strong and lasting friendships with those around me. I would tell myself not to stress about not having enough time to complete tasks, because when I manage your time wisely, I will discover that there is time to work hard on your studies, and there is also time to relax, play games, and attend club meetings and activities.

Alison

What I would tell myself is that there is no need to stress out so much about your freshman year. Your highschool teachers do prepare you for everything you will need and your writing is exactly what your freshman English professor is looking for. You will make friends, and you will continuously surprise yourself by how much in common you have with other people. You will be able to shine brightly and have no fear, because everyone feels exactly the same thing you do. You won't get overwhelmed as long as you remember to study hard and stay organized. You will do well!

Georgianna

If I could go back in time and alke to myself as a high school senior, knowing what I know now about college life and making the transition to college, I would have a lot of advise to offer myslelf. I would tell myself not to believe everything that my high school teachers told me. College is a big change. No one is going to tell you what to do. You have to figure it out on your own. They want you to be an individual not just spout back someone elses opinion. The professors are friendly and care. If you try as hard as you can and seek help when you need it , you'll do just fine. Remember your an adult now. It's up to you to make the best of evey experience.

Tasha

I would tell myself to strive harder to be the best I could, and not to let the small mishaps get to me. I would say to spend more time with my friends and apply for as many scholarships as possible. Also, when it comes to the hard times in school, just take a few deep breaths and work your way through it bit by bit and you can survive. Overall, get out there and enjoy freshman year because before you know it you're on Christmas Break wondering where the first semester just went. College is great, but only if you get out there and meet new people, take some risks, and not be afraid to get hurt. College is like high school, just with less drama and more work, so if you can balance your social life with your school work, you can balance your grades and have a great first year.

Jordanna

The only advice I would have given myself when I was a high school senior, knowing what I do now, would be to start saving money now and make sure that I work at a job as much as I can because down the road it's going to pay off. It's so important to realize that you need to start saving for college when you're in high school. This will save hours of frustration and stress when trying to come up with money for loans and tuition. For me, this is the single most important advice I could have recieved. I needed to know that college wouldn't come cheap and I would have to work hard to make it through with as little debt as I could. The rest of college comes naturally, the social interactions and courseload, I could handle that, I was doing fine in high school. All I needed to know was to start working now to build a better future.

Erika

Don't settle for less. Don't listen if other people say you can't do something. You can do anything, and you can do it well, if you just work hard enough. It will pay off. I know you've been struggling with a lot of things, but don't lose your motivation. You can be great. And if you fail, don't let it bring you down. Just try harder next time, not for your parents, not for your friends, but for yourself and your own well-being and self-efficacy. Strive to be the best you can be. Gain knowledge and pass it on to others. Also don't be afraid to ask for help if you are struggling with a problem. Noone will think any less of you because you cannot solve it on your own. Just like you are always willing to help others, they will gladly help you.

Kylie

Senior year of high school is a very intimidating period in one's life. It's the end of one era and the beginning of an entirely different one. No matter who you are or where you are in life when you are a high school senior, your graduation day marks the day that your life will change. The moment when you are handed your diploma is a moment of freedom, and your first day of college is the day an entirely new life begins. Even if you don't know from day one what degree you want or what you will do with it, you are already well on your way from day one. You are also about to enter a period of incredible change. Embrace it. The person you will be when you receive your degree is absolutely not going to be the same person you were when you started your freshman year. Don't be afraid. College is going to give you every academic, social, mental, and emotional tool you need to become whoever it is you are going to be when you graduate. Seek it out. Take advantage of it. Do not be afraid of it.

Samantha

You need to visit the school. If you visit and find that you don't like the looks of it, you probably won't enjoy it. In order to make the most of your college experience, you need to find the right college.

Amanda

Finding the right college for you or your child is important because of many reasons. If you or your child is not comfortable at their school then not only will they suffer emotionally but also academically. The last thing a student can do is focus on work to be done when they are not happy with their school. Finding the right college for you or your child is imperative for the success of the students academic career, social career, and future career. For myself, playing sports and the ability to feel like a big fish in a small pond was what I needed to feel comfortable in the right college for me.

Jeff

Come here is you want a small town feel. There are few parties, drugs, crimes, and many of the things normally assiciated with college. It's a very safe community. Be motivated, if you are not, you will find yourself bored on nights and weekends.

Anna

Visiting the college is definitely key. It can really help make your mind. Make sure that the students are shown around by other students, it allows the coming in students to get all the questions they have off their chest and they can see the "true" side of the college/university.

Cheyanne

The best piece of advise I can give to parents and students is to go visit schools. Schools can look and sound amazing online or in catalogs but a lot of time, you don't know if a school is right for you until you've been there. I never would've chosen my school if I hadn't gone to visit it; now I can't imagine going anywhere else. Find what fits you, not your friends or your parents. Also, work your tail off in high school so that you don't have to work as hard in college; get good grades, apply for lots of scholarships, and save your money -- my biggest regret in college is that I don't get to do as much as I want because I have to work two jobs to pay my bills. You miss out on a lot.

Caroline

Trust your instincts.

natasha

try to find the best school for yourself/child and take into account any personal needs--don't just attend a school beceause its a "good school." And don't be afraid to transfer!!

Christina

My advice to parents and students is that they should research the career opportunities within the major the student is planning to take. They should ask about opportunities for hands on learning or whichever way that they are better able to learn, as well as class size and environment that they are comfortable learning in, at the campuses that the student is considering attending. The student should ask for a tour around the campus. They should tour the residences, food service area, and classrooms to get a feeling of the environment. I would suggest asking any questions the student may have, when they are on the tour or with an admissions counselor. Also, I would suggest learning about the surrounding towns and the amenities to the area including housing, parks, recreation, and job and volunteer opportunities. The student may need to look at their past performance and what they believe are their strengths and why, this may help them to determine which college is right for them. Overall, finding a campus that the student is comfortable and where they are able to be involved will make the time more meaningful, and possibly more fulfilling.

Tamra-Jo

Find a college that has exactly what you want to major in available. Also find a school that works well with you financial situation. Once you get into college and start your studies, really put some effort into it. You are paying for your classes and if you fail a required class you have to pay for it again and retake it.

Bruce

Let them deside, and help them don't fourse them to go where they will be unhappy!! They will do better at a school they love and will work harder.

Emma

When looking for the right college, you must consider the feel of the school, first and foremost. Can you picture yourself living and working in this environment? The academics should be your top priority, as that is why you are attending college! Make sure the program you are interested in is strong and will open doors for you. The social aspects of college life are also very important. My best advice would be to spend a weekend at the school you are interested in. Are the students there friendly or only concerned with their own success? Are there fun things to do on the weekends? Will you be happy here? Cost is also a major concern while living in such hard economic times. Check out the availability of scholarships, financial aid, and loans. While at school, take advantage of every opportunity you are interested in! College is a time to grow, and it is a time to explore yourself. Take risks. Do something you wouldn't have in high school. The friends you make in college see your true colors, and that's why their friendships last lifetimes. Be open to change. Quench your thirst for knowledge. Be yourself.

Jen

Spend a lot of time there. Don't go by just one visit to a school, actually spend a lot of time on the campus. Try to see a school for what it really is on a typical day, not just on an open house day to get the real picture of a campus. Also, pick a college that has an office for career placement. My college gave me no help in finding a job after graduation, and I really could have used that help.

Rachel

I think it is important to visit several schools before deciding on a college. I visited a couple other schools and knew right away that they weren't right. I drove through Farmington and told my parents to stop the car because this is where I was going to go to school. Go with your gut feeling. If a place feels right to you from the start, chances are, you're meant to be there. As for making the most of college, make some friends, get out and do stuff with the people on your floor in the residence hall. My best advice is to live on campus for at least one full year before moving off-campus. You will meet so many people and have so many opportunities you wouldn't otherwise that it is worth it to have a roommate and little privacy. College academics are super important, but so is having a social life. Don't be the hermit staying in your room, get out and do things, see new places, explore. You only have a little bit of time to set your patterns for the next 3 years, don't be a shut-in.

Kaisha

Make sure that you know what you want to do and that you can handle a small school! It' great for Edu majors and Ski Industries! If you like the mall and shopping, or need city life... don't come here! If you don't mind quiet life, which does help to study, then you may make it here!

laura

The most uselful advice for finding the best college for you is don't pay attention to what your friends or family says. You have to find the school that is the best fit for you, don't let the opinions of your friends deter you from applying anywhere. When I first applied to UMF my friends all made fun because it was a state school, but now as a junior I am the only one that has not transferred or is not completely miserable with their choice. It is important to listen to other's opinions but don't let that be your guiding force, only you know what is best for you. Don't be afraid to pick a school no ones heard of, look outside box. College gives you a unique chance to start fresh. Take advantage of the fact that nobody knows you and dive into the campus community. Don't be afraid to stand out in class or challenge upperclassmen, this is your chance to prove yourself. Remember that almost everyone starts out with the same fears and apprehensions on the first day of freshman year, jump in and get your hands dirty.

Aimee

A person needs to think about what would make them happy. It is important to think about how big you would like the school and what you expect from the professors. I also believe that you should visit the school to make sure that it feels right to you. College is an amazing experience and you want to make sure you are in a place that you can thrive at. For many, being on our own is a new experience, but it is important to remember to work hard and stay focused. Also, it is important to get involved and meet new people. Enjoy your time, don't try and race through it!

Kathleen

Definately visit the college you are considering and if you can visit more than once. Sometimes a college looks great on paper but when you finally get there it may be something not to your liking. Also when you visit, check out the department you plan on majoring in or are interested in. It is nice to know what is available to you as in equipment and the learning space. You may even bump into the professors and talk to them about their classes that you may be taking. A visit may change your mind completely about the college so it is worth your time to do so.

Alyson

Make sure to pick a school that best fits your personality and interest. If it is difficult for you to make friends then I would not pick a school far from home. No matter where you end up it is impaortant to try your best and make the most out of your college experience. Your college experience will be what you make it.