University of Maryland-University College Top Questions

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

Alison

My advice to myself would be to relax, stop being hard-headed, and short-term goals are essential to your success in college. I am a very capable student and would sometimes look past the short-term goals in order to focus on long-term goals. This resulted in not putting forth my best effort in college. Even though there are courses that are not fun to me, the grade I earn is important on my transcript. Passing all courses with an "A" or "B" really improves the way employers view you and your potential to their team. My ultimate goal in graduating is to have a job that can support me and my family. I wish I had this knowledge before I started college. In the summer of 2011, I graduated with my Associate's Degree. This was a huge accomplishment for me! I hope that being able to give myself sound advice will have a positive impact on the rest of my college career.

Kasey

The first, and most important thing I would tell myself would be to realx. At this point, there is so much going on in your life. Start looking at colleges, and thinking about Universities, but, there is nothing at all shameful about going to a 2-year college, even if all your friends and peers think they have their lives figured out, and are headed for what seemingly bigger adventures. You will have them, and they will be marvelous. Secondly, don't get so Hell-bent on one thing. Make sure there are other options, and do not rely strictly on Beers' opinions. As much as you love rugby, there are other things to consider. Dad is right, rugby is important, but, once you graduate, Beers' opinions won't matter, you can't rely on rugby forever. Thirdly, stand tall, and stand firm. Make a decsion, and do something. The State Trooper Cadet Program, or something that interests you, or that you think interests you. Do it. Try it, and do not procrastinate in the process. You are more than capable of completing the task; and if you don't like it, you don't have to do it forever.

Justin

Just do it. Do not take four years off before beginning your journey; don't delay the inevitable. You want a college education; you are smart enough and motivated enough to attain one. The best possible time to start your postsecondary education is, of course, just after secondary school. Do it while your high school knowledge is fresh in your mind. You don't have to pick a major now. Knock-out the general education requirements and some electives while you decide what you want to do. The requirements for the major are typically the final half or third of the degree program, anyway. Act now... you'll be glad you did!

Marc

Going back to talk to me about what to do from high school to college, I would have to start with not waiting so long to attend. I waited until late in my career to go to college and continue with it, that time spent was not negative, it has given me a lot of skills and experience to draw from, but my overall ability to complete schooling, apply what I have learned to future jobs and have an overall more successful career and family might have been largely impacted by continuing my education after high school.

Richard

Dear Rick, choose a field of study that interests you, one you might actually find fun. Don't start out thinking the studies you embark on in the Fall are going define what you will become professionally. Sure, do keep an eye on "transferable" skills it may provide, or its suitability for an advanced degree, but make sure its is somethnig that will continue to hold your interest.

VERONICA

If I could go back to being a high school senior, I would see the value in having a educational degree and focus more on accomplishing that dream. The transition would of been much easier, much cheaper, and I would be studying something that I enjoy. The best advice that I can give myself or anyone else is, "The road to accomplishing your dreams is much easier than you think; focus, study hard, involve yourself in social activites such as volunteering, student organization, etc., because they are very beneficial in your private and social life." If I go to college, I would have a better chance of working for prominent organizations that give back to the community, and raises my sense of self-awareness, self-pride, and self-esteem; noteworthy attributes.

Christopher

I would tell myself to attend a community college because of how expensive college is and how the costs are increasing every year. Attending a community college to get an associates degree while working a part-time job would have saved a lot of money and allowed the option of attending my junior and senior year at a four year university without needing to work at the same time which means all my time could be spent on studying and socializing. Also, I would have told myself to look into more scholarships and apply for as many as possible while in college to simply make life easier on yourself. Money is one of the biggest challenges a college student faces while attending school and every little bit of money you can get will help. It relieves the stress you have when you are in debt and it allows you to focus on your studies a lot better knowing you are no longer in debt or are close to being cleared of it.

Venus

Go to college straight from highschool. It is easier and you don't have any real life responsibilities at that point. Also, thing long and hard about how you want to leave your footprint on the earth.

Michelle

Michelle, dont give up or stop tring hard your going to be successful just keep following your goal. Theres alot of schools out there and help so dont stress out and dont give up soccer. Study hard and keep them grades up they will help you in the future. Try to take the advantage to learn as much as possible in high school that you can it helps in collage. You have a good plan to go to a city collage then transfer to a university. Don't Worry about not knowing what your major will be you'll figure it out as you take classes and the interest you u choose to do. Theres alot of things that you can do even if its just for experience. Volunteer at the places you wouldnt think of going you might like it. Follow your heart and mind in everything you do, i know you'll do good make me proud.

Julie

I would tell myself to quit being so dang self-conscious of my body. I'd let myself know that these are the beginning of golden days and to not spend or waste time thinking I was fat, or comparing myself to others. Instead of wasting time on my self-image I'd work on what was on the inside. I'd tell myself to sit down and write out what my passions were, what my goals were and how I expected to get there. I'd write down everything I thought I'd have when I had reached my success and then I'd tell high school Senior Julie to focus on those things so that I knew what I was working so hard for. I'd let myself know that I have all of the tools I need to be successful and happy, just that some of them needed to be dusted off and fine tuned. I'd tell myself that life is happening now and that there isn't any gun shot into the air to let me know that things were beginning. Life is here now, so do what you want to achieve in life now.

Nicole

First and for most I would tell myself that college is not what I expected. I assumed that because I did so well in high school, that college would come easy to me. Therefore I slacked off, ending up with a horrible first semester. I would also have been more hard on myself to get a job, because no matter where you go college can be quite expensive and you never know what circumstances will come about. I experienced this first hand, and it made my situation way harder, but I was dedicated to going to school, so somehow I made it work. I would also have told myself to think about my future seriously. In high school I pretty much lived for the moment, and did not think about how it could impact my immediate future. Lastly but not least I would tell myself to always put my best foot forward no matter with what. I have realized that if I do my best with everything that I do then overall my life will be better and I can become the person that I want to, and achieve all of my dreams and goals to be successful in life.

Alison

The advice I would give is ‘look up’ because all my life I have been told that I couldn’t do anything. I have been everywhere from homeless to women shelters; from a ward of the state to a teenage mother. As a victim of abuse, I became accustomed to walking head down through life. High school graduation day, I looked up and knew life was going to change because I had beaten an odd. I did the same when I graduated college because not only was I looking down physically, but metaphorically. Nothing came given and life lessons made me not only stronger, but I have never looked down since. If I could go back, I would tell myself to ‘look up’ and don’t close any doors of opportunity or feel as if you aren’t good enough for anything. Earning my education broke glass ceilings that I no longer have to be stigmatized for. I chose to turn around and offer hands to others because where I succeed others achieve the same and I will tell them to just ‘look up’.

Antoinette

The year is 2002; I see my 2002 self standing outside. 2011 me: “We need to talk.” 2002 me: “WHAT?! HOW?! WHAT’S GOING ON?!” 2011 me: “I’m from the future, year 2011, I need you to know something very important.” 2002 me: “What?! Am I in jail?” 2011 me: “WHAT?! NO! Don’t be so dramatic. I want you to know that you will earn a scholarship to go to school, but don’t major in biotechnology. You need to major in psychology. You love researching how the mind works and you’re a natural at figuring people out. ” 2002 me: “Yea, I have a gift.” 2011 me: “Don’t get cocky, just listen. You waste too much time and money switching your major to psychology. Oh and remember it’s ok to party, but please…..keep your grades up! Don’t lose your scholarship because loans eat up your money after graduation.” 2002 me: “Thanks for the advice.” 2011 me: “Oh last thing. When you meet Simon, don’t be so hard on him. He turns out to be a really great guy.” 2002 me: “Simon?” 2011 me fades. 2011 me: “Please remember all I said today.”

taylor

The advice I would give myself now is do not rush to figure out what you want to major in. It is a tough decision and can be changed numerous times while a person is in college. Also, to start studying while in high school. It is hard to study for college courses when I did not study a lot in high school. Studying for tests are harder in college and having the right skills before hand will be easier when it comes to test times. Save your money because in college it goes fast. Plan a head on what you will be spending each month and make sure you do not go over your spending. Budgeting it good and will keep you out of trouble. Also, just have fun with friends and other peers. Make friends so you can have people to study with for tests. Studying in pairs is better than alone. Do not be afaid to ask you professor for help, they are there to help and clear assignments up. Use the tutors that the class has, they know how to help and will help if you need it.

Amber

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself not to let hardships in life bring you down, such as not getting into the college or program I applied to. I would also tell myself I need to push myself to always give 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} in all that I do, even if I get negative feedback from those around me. Without doing this a person may never know their true potential and have less of a chance to achieving their life long goals. The last thing I would tell myself is to not be afraid to ask questions during class. Even if I am too shy to ask with all of the students in class, I should ask my professor after class, or set up a time to meet with them. Although, the students in my class are also there to learn and may have the same questions I have. By asking questions, I will have a better understanding of the material being discussed during class. After all, why should I waste my knowledge and money if I don't put the effort into understanding the information?

Jennifer

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, the advice I would give would be this: Do not rush to enter "the real world." It is harder to go back to school once you've left and are working full time. Once you get to that point, you have a stricter schedule, less flexibility, and also bills, bills, bills. You cannot just stop paying them and go back to school. I would tell my high school senior self to take the time to go through college and experience the freedom and the flexibility you have and find what you really love and want to do with your life.

Jennifer

I would tell myself to always have a notepad handy, be prepared to write lists and prioritize time properly. The freedom that comes with college can't be taken lightly. Plan to study hard, stay organized and go to each class. College is the key to the future.

Cameron

When my junior year of high school began, I entered Pierce Community College. I utilized the running start program to achieve my High School Diploma and Associates of Science degree in the spring of 2010. Pierce Community College has been an excellent stepping stone toward achieving my goals, by offering an Associates of Science degree and providing the specific engineering classes that I will need to transfer to the University of Washington. It has taught me the fundamentals of knowing what i want to achieve and finding a way to make it happen. Learning new things has open my mind to all sorts of possibilities that can be accomplished with a little knowledge and a whole lot of diligents.

Abigail

College has been so different from the rest of my life. I went from a tiny, unkown part of Maryland to this giant university, right next to Washington DC. I have met so many people, and gotten so many different experiences. For example, this past winter, I traveled to El Salvador for a community service class. I have survived Snowpocalypse, and I have become much more of an independent person. College has taught me a lot about going out and finding things on your own, not just waiting for something good to drop in your lap. I've learned that life isn't like high school, and I really need to work hard to achieve anything. I've learned that the most unnlikely people can make the beest of friends, and not to be so quick to judge someone I see in class. They may come back and help your save your grade. College has taught me a lot, not just in the academic sense, but in life. These life lessons are important, and will carry me through the rest of my life.

Isa

I personally am loving my college experience right now because I'm learning so much. I am now on the final track - meaning I am finally taking the classes that are related to my major and i'm learning exactly what I will be doing once I graduate; therefore I'm so excited and willing to learn what i have left. As i said earlier, the best part of my college experience at the moment is that I'm learning some facinating things and I will be graduating soon. Also, the teachers have been extremely encouraging and it's always nice to hear someone giving you positive feedback and positive thoughts overall.

noorayn

many of us college is the next step in their lives, it is a chance to earn more money and an opportunity to grow. As for me i am in my third year of college, I am the first generation college student. it was a wonderful experience, i learned how to work in a team, i explored diffrent cultures and grew as well as evolved to a well rounded adult. i think that everyone should have a college experience.

doneyda

What I have gotten out of my college experience is that it is very beneficial to continue your education after high school because there are so many greater possibilities. I always knew that staying in school was the best thing to continue after high school but now that I am in the real world, I truly do see its benefits. It has been valuable for me to attend college because I want to better myself. I want to have a good name for myself and my children. I want to be a great example to my children and my family especially my younger brother and younger cousins. College has really helped me to remain focus, organized, goal oriented and open-minded. The value that college has for me is immense because to be able to survive in the world we live in now, having a degree not only proves something about yourself and what you are made of but it also helps you to stand out from the rest. I hope to one day be remembered for completing my college education, not only my bachelor's but my PhD. I believe if you're going to dream, dream BIG.

Patrice

From my college experience, even if I'm still there I have gotten out with a lot of new knowlegde about everything such as the view of the world, knowlegde of course about my major that is computer science, the way to talk to people, to act , to look for a job, how to dress some particular places, etc... It is valuable to attend because it is changing my behavior the right way, and for me that's the most important point. Be a respectable person, and respect people, know who I am, what I want, where I'm going are being achieved because I went to college. From this experience, I will advise everyone who has not attented the college yet to go without hesitation.

Britany

I left my freshman college in 2009 after marriage and moved to Germany with my husband. Switching colleges made my freshman college experience seem easy. I have honestly had quite a few negative experiences with the current college I'm attending and I'm glad that this semester I am taking my final two classes (I only stayed because I already had transfer credit approval). I look forward to going back to my original college where I will experience the college life once more and finally graduate. The entire college experience has taught me to ask more questions, don't be afraid to keep calling, to think long and hard before I make decisions, and to consider who are my true friends. College made me grow up without you even realizing it at the time! I looked back to see that I had in fact matured. College also taught me real world qualities like multitasking, prioritizing, being a hard worker, among many other things. With the good times and the bad, I wouldn't change my college experience for the world.

MISTY

Well so far I haven't had the pleasure of having a college experience. I started my family first. Now here I am 10 years later trying to do the "college experience" as a mother and Marine Corps wife. It's a rewarding experience to be successful as a Mom and a Wife but now I want to be a successful college student. I know I will do better now than I would of right out of high school because now I am more mature and I have a lot more to lose if I fail. I can't afford to fail. If I lose than my family loses and that is unacceptable to me. As an older college student I feel I will take the whole "college experience" more seriously than a young fresh out of high school kid. Not trying to be condescending just being truthful. If I get this scholarship it would be benefiting more than just one person, it would be benefiting a whole family. Thank you for taking the time to read and consider my request. I wish the best for whoever is reading these words. May God bless you and your family.

Elisus

University of Maryland University College (UMUC) has taught me the foundation and advanced ways of managing simple and complex networks. I have learned how to manage different categories of projects in diverse industries. The faculty members are rich in industry experience and this has contributed immensely to my learning. As a graduate student of Telecommunications Management, I have an expert understanding of the concepts of Information and Communications Technology (ICT), as well as security and other threats that characterize ICT systems. The faculty members present the courses in ways that are easy to follow and understand, as well as providing courses that are valuable to the government, military, business, academia, etc.

Kylee

I have learned to balance work, life and school. I have learned a broad spectrum of subjects, from computer science to marketing to mythology. My first two years allowed me to explore different subject areas and decide what interested me most and what type of career I wanted to persue. It has been extremely valuable to attend college because it's very difficult now to enter into any type of long-term career field without a degree. I am currently working in a dead end job and I am hoping that with a college education I can find a career that will be more more personally and financially rewarding.

Kaitlyn

College has made me realize that there is a life beyond Charles County Maryland. It has made me broaden my hopes and aspirations. I have created new dreams for myself that are larger than every imagined. I know it will be a lot of hard work, but it has helped to make me a hard worker. If I recieve my financial aid there is nothing left to hold me back and I will work my hardest to accomplish every dream I ever imagined. Perhaps I will even try medical school!

Seth

Because I am an Information Technology major, much of my career will be spent researching solutions, instead of being expected to know them on the spot. My college experience has taught me to think critically and logically, and has given me the tools I need to be able to research intelligently and apply that knowledge in the field.

Andrea

My college experience at UMUC has helped me mature as an individual. Beginning in the Fall of 2008, I entered UMUC as a scared, young student unsure of my career path. Initially, I performed poorly academically and was required to work to support my education. I then began working as a receptionist, juggling loads at work and at school. As I was working to pay for my own classes, I began to recognize the importance of an education. I used the skills I had acquired, such as time management and prioritizing, and performed much better academically. Most importantly, I learned to appreciate the means of obtaining an education. Due to UMUC’s flexible class schedules, committed staff and payment programs, I am able to continue my education. With their resources, I hope to further my education, pursue my degree in Communications and find employment in my field. I feel that UMUC has literally been a second chance for me as I recognize that my future is not limited to working unfulfilling jobs. Instead, I have the opportunity and resources to pursue a meaningful career and through UMUC I fully intend to do so.

Jennifer

The most important attibute I have gained through my college experience is that love and appreciation of learning. College has taught me that there is always more to be learned. I can never achieve omniscience. Though this may be discouraging to some, it is anything but to me. I am encouraged that there is more to learn because this means I will never grow bored with life. Within the world is a wealth of knowledge waiting for me to discover!

JING

The world went silent. Suddenly, that silence was shattered by the voices of everyone as they stood up. Our basketball team actually won! Two months before that victory, the school’s basketball team and I had a period of hard time. As a leader of liaison office in my school's student union, I was responsible for finding support for our basketball team for the upcoming match. After I was refused three times, an owner of a restaurant was finally moved by my determination and agreed to make a deal with me. He would offer us funds if the school’s basketball team wins the second place in the match. At that time, however, it was almost impossible to achieve the goal. So, I went to work. Striving to keep my part of the deal, I participated in the tough training plan. Cheerfully, due to the two-month hard work, we actually created a miracle. Every time I remind myself of those wonderful days, I smile at the appreciation and friendship that I earned from them. I learned that even the most challenging obstacle can be overcome as long as I work persistently and intelligently.

Julie

The thing I value most about my college experience has been the near limitless potential for acquiring knowledge. I feel I have been given an opportunity to stimulate my mind each day. There are always new academic challenges to face, and facing each one has been amazing. I’m grateful to have been able to come this far in my education, and I’m always looking forward to the next course I take, and the next educational avenue to be traveled. I’ve had many invaluable interactions with professors that work in their fields and teach as a passion. I’ve met forensic scientists, judges, wardens, states attorneys, death investigators, FBI agents, and more. Each one has offered unique expertise that continues to make learning an adventure. Further the knowledge I’ve gained from my college experience makes me more marketable upon entering my profession. The personal skills I’m continuously reinforcing each semester will benefit me in all my further endeavors. I’ve excelled in such disciplines as time management, resourcefulness, and research techniques. Skills I may have otherwise never honed. Knowledge is the asset I value most, and my education allowed me this most amazing intellectual property.

Afua

I literally grew up in college. It taught me the value of having a balance life with school and work. Also it thought me the value of friendship and team work as well as sharing knowledge and gaining knowledge. It taught me how to deal with the different personalities of people and how to deal with people and that is helping me at work now. Also during the college days, I learnt how to think outside the box. It also thought me that whatever I put my mind to I can achieve it and to always be the best at everything I do not mattter how small or big. Also it taught me that it's ok to make mistakes, correct them and move on and not dwell on them. You can learn from the past but the past does not define you. Also that laughter is the best medicine.

Quesean

I have learned how to manage my time. With a husband and two children, I have learned to juggle my time so that I am able to get my assignments in and completed. I have also learned that the students, specifically at UMUC, are extremely helpful, which makes this experience wonderful. I can count on my classmates if I have a question about a specific assignment, as well as my professor, but the students are very helpful.

Shareef

More than anything, I believe that establishing connections between students and faculty is very important. Have you ever heard of the saying " it's not about who you know but what you know" well, I beg to differ. I believe it is about both; If i did not know that it was about "who I knew" then I would not have mad the effort to know anyone at all. Networking is key when trying to establish your feet firmly in this world. I will remember to cherish everyone's relationship on whom I come in contact with, I will go to www.ratemyprofessor.com when registering for classes, and I will continue to inform the world with strategies I have learned in order to succeed in college.

William

My college experience has been outstanding at UMUC. All of my classes have been online so I have the convenience of attending class from another state. The faculty, staff and students have been outstanding in their knowledge and professionalism. Online classes provide the flexibility for me to continue to work full-time and to continue with my academic career. A college education is critical in this day and age as it helps with a broader background for employment. Not only does it provide specific knowledge to your field of work, but a better understanding in general. This general knowledge helps in the everyday tasks of a career and acts as experience towards a career in the field of study. Your learning and schooling will be part of you for the rest of your life and helps you become a better person. An education is priceless.

angela

From my current college experience i learned the value of friendship, hardwork & dedication. I believe these 3 skills can be very valuable through life & are good personality traits. It has been very valuable for me to attend my college because i honestly cant afford to attend college, and my current school allows me to recieve an education for a low cost with transfer options.

Brooke

College is a place where people dream to go. However, not everyone is fortunate to be able to obtain such an amazing experience. I consider myself truly lucky to have the opportunity to encounter the college life or, "the glory days." For me, what I have gotten out of my college experience is the meaning of life, and what it means to grow up and be independent. Attending college has shown me the value of working hard for something and the reward you get for the effort put into it. The college experience has also given me the chance to meet amazing people and life long friends. It has allowed me to establish myself and open my eyes to see who I really am. Not only has it given me this, but it has made my dreams possible. Without college I would not be able to get where I want to go in life. Being able to live the experience has showed me that there is so much more to life. By going to college, anything is possible. More than anything though, I have achieved a sense of pride; something nobody can take from me.

kit

Mainly, I went to college to recieve a degree, which is necessary to get certain kinds of jobs. Overall, it has be valuable in helping with my professional career.

Sonya

My college experience has allowed me to obtain the knowledge to express my words through writing and speech. My learning comprehension has expanded allowing me develop a skill to use in the work place.

Todd

I am returning to earn my dundergraduate degree after a twenty year absence. I have spent the last year incarcerated in the California State prison system, and believe that my return to finish my education - and continue into a graduate program - will insure my future goals as well as keep me from returning to a life style I have left behind. My only choice in my life, at this time in my life, is to return to school. It is the experience at Maryland that has made this decision for me. Because of the University of Maryland, I have achance of regaining my life and become a productive member of society.

Todd

When I was an undergraduate, I was searching for a purpose in my studies. It has only come to me in the last two years the importance of education and feel to be a success in this life I must complete my program - eventhough it is twenty years later.

Andrew

College for me so far has been a place where i have learned more about myself as a person than i imagined i ever would. i learned that i like learning and that education is not something to be scared of. i look foreword to futhering my education and learning more about myself and to learn more about everything. this scholarship will help me with this goal and i would be gratefull to recieve it.

Candace

I have obtained a lot so far from my college experience. I have learned how to work in groups and listen to other's ideas on different subjects, including religion and philosophy. I am a History major hoping to become a librarian. I work with children at a small library called Noyes in Kensington, Maryland and it's very fulfilling work. Attending college has been valuable, not only as a means to get a degree, but as a way to get to know people from different countries and religious backgrounds. I have learned a lot from my college peers. They have influenced me to learn other languages so I can communicate with more people in the world. The courses my school offers are very hands-on. I can apply the skills I've learned in the real world. It's never too late to start getting your education, even when it feels like life is too busy!

Erin

By attending college, I have learned what career that I would like to pursue and which subjects that I enjoy best. This has helped me to decide on a career path and even decide what types of clubs or organizations that I wish to attend. I have experienced so many new things in college and learned who my real friends are and the fact that your family and close friends will be there for you no matter what happens. This has been the most remarkable discovery. My family and I have grown much closer since I started college, but the college experience has even helped me to gain a sort of independence that I never knew I had. Before I started college I was very shy and had severe social anxiety, but many of the projects and clubs in school have helped me to break out of my shell and really discover who I am and the person that I want to aspire to.

Federico

I have met a lor of amazing future professionals, and I have had the pleasure of having classes with some highly qualified profesionals (the few face to face classes that I took). The experience is great, the campus in something that I still can't believe. The academic ambience there is something that makes you want to continue, and don't stop until you reach your goal.

Stephen

I have learn a lot of things I never knew about life. My communication, interaction and professional skills has improve

Aleesha

I am a 31 year old mother of two. My husband is in the USAF and we have been married for 6 years. Our 5 year old daughter is in Kindergarten and our 3 year old is in daycare. Both my husband and I received our Associates Degrees in Business Management in August of 2009. And as of today we are both proceeding on and currently working towards our BA degrees. We are working hard to better our family. We own our own home and love living out in the country here in TX. I currently work two jobs. I have a 30 hr day job as an Office Manager at an insurance agency where I make $8.00 per hour. I recently took on a second job at The Children's Place store working 20 hrs per week at $8.00 per hour. I had high hopes after living in England for the past 4 years that once I came back to the USA with a college degree I would be making sufficient money to pay a mortgage and daycare.

Yukimi

UMUC gave me confidence and graet learning experience. i learned that education is the most powerful way to protect myself and secure my future.