University of Maryland Eastern Shore Top Questions

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

Evette

If I were granted the unparalleled opportunity to advise parents and future students attempting to locate the college most correct for them, I would inform both parties to thoroughly research and schedule a touring visit of the campus and housing available before deciding upon one. It will be a severe regret if this is not done prior to applying and accepting an invitation to attend any of the numerous universities desired. In regards to the college experiencing and insuring one filled with memories that will be eternally lasting, I recommend to students to become actively involved in campus organizations. Do not settle for spending entire afternoons in the dormitory, hoping that tomorrow will be different because the four years of undergraduate wait for no one and finishes almost as quickly as it begins. Do not be afraid of socializing with strangers and extend your friendship or mere acquaintance to as many people as possible. You'll never be alone. Also, remain focused on the sole reason why you decided to pursue a higher education to begin with otherwise you will be dismissed. Distractions are evident, but focus and dedication are two necessary components of success.

Evette

I recommend thoroughly researching all schools available rather than basing their decision strictly upon financial circumstances.

T.

In my opinion, when selecting a college, the number one thing you should consider is; at the end of 4 years will you be happy with the decision you made to attend that particular school. Some things you should also consider are; is the school offering your major within a good department that will not only teach subjects but consists of faculty members that care about your education and are willing to invest in you as a person, and are you able to affort the tuition. Curently in my third year in college, I am extremely happy with my decision to attend UMES. The campus is not too far from home, the classes aren?t too large, and the professors give you individualized attention when you need it without complaining. I have met many friends and professors that have made an impact on my life. I will always be grateful to them because they have helped me mature and helped in the building of my character. So, make sure the college offers the program and major you are pursuing, and please surround yourself with a circle of people that will help you during your college career.

elisabeth

the students finding the right college and making the most of the college experience are making their own decision and paying for their own college with my parent not helping me.

Kirstin

Really get to know the school, dont chose it just because. think about what you like, and where you'd like to be

Jason

Make sure when u take the campus tour to ask the guide about , housing life, activites, and the internships avalible a that particular school. Ask as many questions as you can, remember the more the better and theres no such thing as a dumb question. Any knowledge u can get is good knowlege if it can help you select the right shcool for you. However, the first semester is the hardest so dont feel down if u get a few bad grade, you can easily turn it around in the next semester.

ERICA

When finding the right college, make sure there is a certain level of diversity as well as academic drive. Step outside of your element when choosing a college. try not to pick a college that has an environment that you are used to. Accept change. in the process of choosing a college, don't choose a school that to big or small for that matter. Choose a school that is just right in size. Also, choose a school that has professors that view you as a person and not a number. Last but not least, choose a college that can provide financial assistance to you if and when needed.

Stedman

For a student, I will tell them to make sure college is a decision that they want to do and dont let no one force you to do it. If a Student is confused about college I strongly consider starting off with a Community College first to get a taste of the college life, if you don't like it, it would make much sense to go through with it. There are other opinions besides college, such as Technical school well some students excell at and Trade schools. I would like to encourage both the parents to have a serious talk about to students interest to see which would be better for the student between a College and a Technical School. I also encourage that Parents take the time out to visit both types of schools to see what they offer and make a conclusion off of that. Thank You for you Time.

Jessica

The advice I would give parents and students about finding the right college and making the most of the college experience is this: It doesn't matter how you start; it only matters that you finish. Finish school. Even if UMES is not your first choice and you got accepted, go there and check it out. You may find out that you truly enjoy the campus and you might just make friends for life! I know I have! There is a sense of pride that you sense when you walk down these halls; it is truly amazing to see. I would also say to students to get involved. You get out what you put in more or less. If you go to college, any college, with an attitude of malcontent, then you are going to be getting that out of your experience while there. It is what you make it. Join a group, organization, or club. Make friends. This is the best time of your life, your college years, so make the most of it. And finally to the parents, it's okay mom and dad. Take a deep breath and let your babies go. They'll be just fine.

Tyreese

I believe that the best advice to give some one attending a university is that to make sure the university fits your life style. Be certain that the college that you are attending provides you with the oppertunity to adjust and grow.

Bethy

The advice I would give parents is that to make sure that their child financial aid or any other issues involve in order to have a successful year be all set. For students I would advice them to get out and explore a new place, and set a goal for each semester, and achieve that goal. Even if it's just to get 3 A's in 5 of your class or get to class early. Students must set an agenda especially for studying because we simply forget and write down all work that is due. Most teachers will not remind you. Last but not least, stay on top of school work, financial aid and credits, because you might be taking a class that you wount need. Oh yeah be open minded, and stay away from trouble, because if you are kicked off campus, you will still owe the school money for that semester. Interms of party and sex, besafe there are a lot of temptation especially when you are a freshmen female. 98{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of the males are not worth getting involved with. Focus on your goals and you will be fine.

TYSIA

WHEN PARENTS AND STUDENTS ARE LOOKING FOR THE RIGHT COLLEGE, I WOULD TELL THEM TO MAKE A LIST OF WHAT THEY WHAT OUT OF THE SCHOOL.WHETHER THEY WANT TO ATTEND A 4YEAR OR 2 YEAR COLLEGE.THEN MAKE SURE THE COLLEGE TJEY CHOOSE OFFERS WHAT THEY INTEND TO MAJOR IN. IN ORDER FOR THE STUDENT TO MAKE THE MOST OUT OF THEIR COLLEGE EXPERIENCE, THEY HAVE TO SET GOALS AND BOUNDARIES FOR THEMSELVES. THEY ALSO HAVE TO TRY AND GO TO SCHOOL FUNCTIONS SO THAT THEY CAN MEET NEW PEOPLE.THE STUDENT ALSO MUST NOT FORGET THE MORALS AND VALUES THEY WERE TAUGHT.

Clifford

I would say make sure that college is really what you want to do. Also don't be affraid to find yourself. To the parents let your child be free and let them work things out on their own the are becoming adults when they come to college so let them make mistakes and learn from them.

Chelsea

College is what you make it. Don't allow others to dictate where to go, how to live your life, and what to do with it. This is a blessing and an honor to be here and we as Americans are very lucky to have the option to further our education. Take your time in finding what you want in your college experience; not all colleges are the same. Research your options and learn the neccesary skills that you need for college now so that you won't have to fall behind in the future. There are many obstacles that work against you in order to succeed. But college is for YOU! No one else. Do it for yourself and not to please your family or your community- this is YOUR future. Many people lose sight of the concept that in college, you have the ability to do WHATEVER YOU WANT WITH YOUR LIFE! And it's great! Take it as a gift: apply your basic skills you already possess to college and I guarantee, you won't regret it!

Antonio

The right college is one that constantly challenges you/ your child. It also has a great line-up of instructors that care for the student and his/her ability to succeed after graduating. My advice would be to do your research on your institution; don't just go to the school's website, visit the school, talk to students and faculty to see how it fits your lifestyle. If you pick the right school from the beginning, you don't have to try to adjust to it because it has already adjusted to you. As for making the most of the college experience, one must undestand that academics are the priority at school. While it is true that a student should have fun, it is also true that you are here to excel academically so it is a good idea to make that a primary goal everyday.

Brian

First of all start your search early. And if possible try and go out and see the world. Go to a school that is more than 10 minutes from your house. Do your research. Find out what your thinking about majoring in and find schools that have good programs in that field. Go one a campus visit. Make sure that school is the kind of school for you. Once you do get there make lots of friends. You never know who might be able to help you down the line. Also, find someone who has been at the school to show you how the school runs. Join clubs and participate in college events. Support your school as much as you can. Go to sporting events and just have fun. But remember that your first responsibilty at the school is to get your degree.

Danai

Make sure they pick the best college they are qualified for and don't settle for less. Where you attend school is very important in the job market and it looks better to be at the best school. Start looking for college early and applying for scholarships. Make sure you visit the school and enjoy being there because you will possibly be spending the next 4 years of your life there.

Koyinsola

A place with not too much distraction, the right amount of fun and dedicated instructors.

Jayme

Choosing a college a big decision for students as well as their parents. The decision should not be made spur of the moment or quicky just to get it over with. Before choosing the school, students and their parents need to visit colleges. It is important for students to like the campus they will be attending. Also while visiting the college, students need to meet with the department they will be majoring in, to make sure they are sure it is the program for them. Be sure to check out the activities available on campus and living arrangements. If the student enjoys having things to do when not attending class and studying a college with activities is a must. Also be sure to decide whether you want live off campus or on. On campus housing tends to fill up fast, if you want to live on campus you need to meet the deadline to apply. If you choose to live off campus, be sure to check out available apartments or houses for rent. A student also needs to decide if they want to attend college near or awar from home.

denisha

Take your time, thats all.

Dayna

Make sure that you look into the school before you enroll. Make sure that you visit the school and get a tour. Look at the cost of the school and make sure that you have your finacial aid and everything for the school situated before enrolling.

lynice

start early by researching the greeks availible, living accomendations, diversity, and interest groups

Gary

My advice to parents and students is take a tour of what college you would like to attend. Study the area hard and visualize yourself already there to see what it might be like. Take your best feelings and turn it into a dream you would like to fullfill as a college student. If you want to have the best college experience, my advice is to get all your work done early and correctly so that leaves time for you to go interact with other students.

Kellie

When finding the right college dont just go by what you see on the internet or by what others say. Take the time to visit the campus and get a feel of the area and the campus its self.Talk to students to see how they like the campus . To make the most out of the college experience you just have to get out and meet people. The people help make your experience . The people alson help you in finding your true self .

tiffany

I would tell parents and or sutdents that it is best to take your time and research the potential colleges one would like to attend. Make sure it has the alotted qualifications one is looking for in a great college. May it hold the best curriculm with equal amounts of social activity.

Samiesha

My advice would be to research the college or university and take a tour on and around the campus.

Adrian

Look for the college that fits your needs. Campus life and classes help decide whether the school is best for you.

Robin

I would let the students know, when you go to college it is not time to play or get corrupted by others; it is a time to succeed, shine, and show others what your really made of. Your first choice is not always the best, sometimes it is the second, but it will altimalely teach you to strive for the stars and complete what you can to college to do; succeed in life and to further better yourself.

Amma

Never give up!!!! Fight until there is no fight left in you then rest a little and fight some more.

Silver

I have only had myself to depend on so i really dont think i'd know what kind of advice to give a parent, but i definitely have a few helpful words for any student seeking the right college, and making the most out of the college experience. My advice is simply to start searching EARLY!!! Make sure that if you Know without a doubt that you have every intention of attending college, that you start looking in your sophomore and junior year of high school. Start applying as soon as you can; dont be lazy, just get it done. We're talking about the next four years of your life here. Know how you want to spend it. Sit down and make a list of the sort of school youd be most comfortable in. Last but most certainly not least, apply apply apply for scholarships!!! They are possibly one of the most important things that you need to worry about when getting ready to attend a college. If your parents or family is paying for college apply anyway, it could help them out. And one more thing-Campus tours. After you narrow down your options-check out the schools.

Jasmine

If I had the opportunity to give parents and students advice, I would start by telling parents to let the child make the decision for which college they attend themselves because you can not live this life for them, nor can you attend the college. This is a stepping stone for them to be an adult. Also parents just be encouraging to them it reallyhelps them get through the tough times in college. I know from personal experience it really helps, just knowing my mom was in my corner made me want to try harder. For students, I would basically tell you know your purpose for coming to college before you go, becuase the moment yuo forget you will ending up doing stuff you never thought you would. Set standards and tell yourself you will not settle for less. This is all I have be encouraged!!!! College is what you make it!!!!!!

Tamara

Make sure you allow the yourself to explore your options and see what school will best help you achieve academic success.

Brittainey

Parents should never force their child to attend a university of the parents choice. College can be a difficult time and overwhelming for some students. Im not saying that college should be easy but a student should be comfortable with the decision made for college. Always encourage students to do thier very best, never give up, and dont stress one's self out if school work becomes overwhelming. Lastly, remember to have fun while making good grades and decisions throughout college and learn positive acts froms others, even if negative be optimistic and make it positive.

Krystal

The most important advice I can give is to find a school that fits your needs and not just a school that all your friends or family went to. Fitting your needs means that the school offers your intended major, meets your size requirements, and distance/location reqiurements, etc. Although fitting your needs is vital, it is also important that you realize that no school is going to be completely perfect. This means that you have to be willing to compromise (especially when it comes to having a roommate) and adjust to the new lifestlyle and environment. It also very important not to lose sight of your purpose of going to college. This basically means not to put your social life before you academics. One other important piece of advice is to always ask questions when you do not understand. If you have difficulty in a particular subject, don't be afraid to ask for help or get a tutor. In the end you are the going to be the one who benefits from getting help or the one who suffers if you keep quiet. I am confident that if you take this advice you will succeed!

Brendan

Make sure you want to be in school first and formost, then pick the school that you feel that you fit into as if you were at home!

Michael

Find a college that fits the needs of the students. Stay away from college recruiters and closer to professors and students. always tour the campus for more than one day. Go early scout the campus on your own without the tour group, then with a guide. Any Student activites that interest , participate in

Sherria

Advice I have for parents and students about finding the right college and making the most of the college experience is to find something the student likes. A college that meets their career needs and their best interst. To the parent be aware of where your child wants to go and its not all about your feelings and your choice. The students have a great opportunity to choose what environment they want to work in. The right college is what you make of it while your there.Just making sure you research everything about the schools before you apply is the best thing to do.

tiana

Look around and check out the activities and clubs, where ever you go you want to make sure its where you want to be. As they say college is the best 4 years of your life!