University of Montevallo Top Questions

Looking back, if I could give myself advice as a senior in high school I would have to say get educated about colleges. Meaning this, know what interests me and what I would want to go to school for. Also, educate myself on colleges I have a special interest for. I would tell myself to go visit all colleges I am interested in so I could get a feel for the atmosphere and what that college has to offer. Lastly, I would tell myself that once enrolled in the college I've chosen to attend, to go to class even if my assignment is not finished. It will benefit myself to go to class and to just be there and listen. Also, have fun!

Work hard and don't pay attention to anyone but yourself and your education. It will later mean more to you than anything. Don't mess it up! Don't take the easy way out, don't slack off. Be everything you can be no matter what and push yourself to succeed.

I would kick myself into gear. Focusing more on studying than playing around and having fun.

I would tell myself to take a little more time. When I graduated from high school I had so many plans, so many ideas about what I was going to do for the next five years that I forgot to take time paying attention to where I was or what I was doing. I would tell myself to stop worrying that life was going to pass me by, and to just enjoy where I was. To focus on the journey, not on the destination. To truly live and experience and enjoy, instead of always looking down the road, oblivious to my surroundings.

In my senior year of high school, I was given the opportunity to join the Parallel Enrollment Program at my high school. This meant that I spent half of my day learning in high school, and I spent the other half at my local community college, gathering early credits toward my upcoming college career. This was a great plan for me, but it was a bit squandered in my case. I was taking an Advanced Placement math class in high school, a challenge for any student, and easier classes in college, such as English 101, a class that I passed with no problem at all. I took easier classes in my first year of college because I had a full workload in high school. I should have thought about the age-old comment about how college is much easier than high school. Looking back now, I would tell my high school senior self that I should have taken more challenging classes during my parallel enrollment days. This would have eased my workload for the future, and would have had me in a harder-working state of mind. I would have accomplished more, and gotten better credits toward my future education.

I took very rigorous courses throughout high school, the AP program, honors program, all while being very active in sports like, wrestling and football. And during this entire time I did not have the perception of, "This will be an aide in my endeavours towards college and overall well-being." Instead I took it as something that was forced upon me, and I just had to tolerate it for the next four years. I would tell myself as a high school senior that even though I may not realize it now, school holistically is a way to better yourself. Even if I did not see the material as being applicable, in the long term, that subject will help in some general form. I would tell myself to not take my education for granted, to make the most out of any academic situation I found myself in, even if it is not the ideal one. To not settle for just the memorization of the material but an understanding of it. In summation, I would tell myself your overall attitude in life, determines your altitude.

Believe it or not, I wish every day that I could go back and tell myself a few things to help me go through my senior year. The first thing I would have said is to not judge anyone. I was a very judging person in high school and I know that that trait kept me from becoming friends with several people. I would have also told myself to take my studies seriously. At my school, we sat around and did nothing most of the time and I never studied, yet I came out with a 3.9 gpa. I would have told myself that even though school is easy, try harder to prepare yourself for college because at the rate you're going, college is going to be a major wake up call. The last and most important thing I would have told myself is to have fun and not let other people's attitudes affect your own. I have learned now that being in a bad attitude because of another person is a waste and I wish every day that I would have known that my senior year. These words would have made my senior year more fullfilling.

If i could go back in time and talk to myself about making the transition from highschool to college, i would push myself harder to make a great ACT score. Not only would i do better on the ACT, but i would also start early at looking at colleges, seeing how much theywould cost, and applying for more scholarhips. Now that i look back on time, i sometimes say to myslef i wish i would have started ealry in looking and applying for colleges. I should have taken more time to actually sit down and fill out schoalrship applicatons.

I would tell myself to decide on a psychology major with a minor in deaf studies to save myself from my failings of freshmen year. I woud also tell myself to go to Montevallo, instead of starting off at UAB. And, I would tell myself and my family to get me diagnosed for ADD, so I can get medicated and my grades could improve before my sophmore year of college.

looking back i would tell myself to not look towards the future. Time flies by so fast. Enjoy ever minute and savor every second.

Your life is about to change forever. There will be some good days and some bad, but you'll make it through and it will make you stronger. Everyone will tell you you won't make it and that you should choose another major. But just keep on working and you'll receive your opportunity. You'll have those days where you don't know where to turn, they'll get better! Some days you'll feel like you want to give up or that it isn't worth it. Then they'll be other days where you'll be so happy and feel accomplished. Always trust your self and never take other advice. Always find out for yourself. Make your own decisions and don't let anyone tell you who to be or what to do. Make decisions that are right for you and not what other people want. You'll make new friends it just takes time and they will genuinely care for you. You are a wonderful person and you've beat all the odds so far....The future is what you make it! live it up and have fun and most of all trust your heart!

It would have been wise to explore more options, instead of the three choices I considered. A high school student's biggest worry is finding the right school for them. I regret my choice, but I am now a junior and it is too late for me to transfer. College is a huge decision and should be treated as such. Don't rush into anything without finding out everything about the school- financial information, social activities, hang out areas, and academic success. I wanted a school that was a good distance away from home and offered me the most money to attend. I sacrificed my happiness for a little bit of money and that was extremely unwise on my part. A student should be able to look back ten years after graduating college and be proud of their school. Make sure it is a school one is proud of and wants people to know where they went.

I would advise myself to skip the community college that I attended and go straight to the University of Montevallo.

Get ready, college is a different ball game. High school was so much easier and you did not have to worry as much. College will really test your maturity and allow you to shape your future. When I first started college, I stayed at home and went to the local community college. I think doing that really helped me develop great study habits and get in the routine of how college was going to work. I saw many of my friends go off to big universities and end up back home because they flunked out their first year. I would also have looked more into scholarships. I see now how expensive school is and is getting each and every year. I did not think of the expenses at the time and now I'm searching for scholarship opportunities all of the time.

Attending school at the University of Montevallo allowed me to refine my existing academic skills as well as build new ones. Each semester, I gained insight into my personal strengths and weaknesses, formed new relationships, and developed a more thorough understanding of the expectations of entering into the adult working class. As often as I was frustrated with the academic process and it's isolation from the professional world, I was likewise fortunate to have ascertained many of the life skills necessary to function as an individual in a society which caters largely to the masses. For every disappointment I experienced and for each instance in which I felt as though I were a student number rather than a student, it seems I benefited in previously unforseen ways and became more resourceful in finding ways to accomplish my goals. I learned communication skills through interaction with my professors, fellow students, and other campus faculty members. I realized the significance of organization and time management in meeting deadlines and upholding personal standards. Most importantly, I accomplished all of this while having fun and enjoying my youth alongside my peers as I earned my bachelor's degree.

This is my second and last change to receive the college education that I always wanted to obtain. Coming back as an older, non traditional student has been a challenge but is very rewarding. I am more focused than I was when I attended college after high school because my experiences over the years have shown me the importance of a college education. This experience is very valuable for several different reasons. First of all it has given me the confidence to set goals and know that I can reach them. Secondly, it has given me the oppotunity to reach out to younger students and tell them about my experiences and why their college education is the most important thing for them to obtain in today's economy. At last, I am able to show my dad that all of his faith in me was not wasted and that I am finely fulfilling both of our dreams for me. I was definitely frightened when I returned to school after being out for over 40 years but that fear was ver short lived because of the support of family, instructors, and support staff.

The University of Montevallo was the last school (of many) I visited during my senior year of high school. I knew immediately it was where I wanted to further my education...not only because of the appearance of the campus - but, more importantly, the students and administration. The atmosphere of this campus has enabled me to succeed in the following areas: 1) my sport (cross country) in which I was awarded the All American Award this year for my running as well as for my academic achievement, 2) my grades - I currently have a 3.8 GPA and have made the Presidents/Deans lists each term, 3) accepted into ODK fraternity which is awarded on grades and civic involvement, and 4) appointed an officer in my sorority - AGD. Through my running and academics, I have learned that by giving 110{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} at all times and digging deep when I feel I can dig no deeper....I can achieve great things. This is a life lesson that I will carry with me through my life. Thank you for this opportunity of expressing myself and for the consideration of scholarship money. Katherine Schofield

I have become more organized and social because of my experience at the University of Montevallo. The professors actually make an attempt to get to know their students, and they are willing to help at anytime during their break. I had already fell in love with this university through trips and tours that I took in high school. Now, I know I do not want to leave because the atmosphere and people here fit me perfect. I could not wait to come back after Christmas holidays.

Since entering college, I've learned to always plan for the unexpected because obstacles will always present themselves whether its financially, mentally or academically. During the first semester of my junior year in college I faced the most difficult financial troubles that I have ever seen. I looked in all directions for help and even though I wasn't excited about taking a semester off to pay for my tuition, I did. Now, I am working to pay my tuition so that I will achieve my educational goals. College has been the perfect place for me prepare me for the many difficult experiences that I will encounter in the real world. Attending college has been so valuable because I've learned a lot about the woman I was, the woman I am becoming, and the woman I want to be. Growing stronger as a person, helped me realize that I had control of the reins that guided me through life.

My college experience has been wonderful for me in the respect that I really found out who I am and the kind of person I want to be. I have matured significantly and have wonderful friends whom I believe I will be friends with for the rest of my life. The experience at Montevallo has been valuable to me because I am well on my way to achieving my goal of being a band director and have been extremely successful academically. I would not be the same person I am today had I gone to a University other than Montevallo. I would not have found the confidence, the encouragement, or the devotion I found from the people and faculty of the University of Montevallo.

What I have learned out of my college experience at the University of Montevallo is that no matter where you go you cannot rely of people for your own happiness. Satisfaction probably comes from a place from within. Additionally, it is very important that you do not alienate yourself from social subtleties; appearance at a certain point in your life may dictate how people view you and you tend to care about being on time and taking school seriously. However, another experience, compassion, is something that seems to be lacking in my current social ecosystem – probably because of the stress and workload from the teacher, family or money problems. On the contrary, stress from teachers rarely gives students a chance to second guess themselves generating truly reactant thinkers on the basis of empirical information without hesitation. Facts seem to come to mind almost robotically, depressing but effective!

The University of Montevallo is the best place to grow intellectually and academically. The students who focus enough are well prepared for their careers. Specifically, I have learned more about my personality and how to relate to other people in general. I am still figuring out what is the best way for me to study.

So far during college i have learned more than i can imagine already. My school has helped me with writing papers, and has improved how i should research for papers. The teachers are helpful. During this experience i have also learned that taking 5 full classes, playing volleyball, and working a part time job is a lot for me. I got a little over whelmed with practices and games each day while also paying attention in my classes. I managed to keep my gpa at a 3.7 which is great but i learned i either need to quit my job, take fewer classes, or not play a sport. No matter how it turns out school will always be first. I cant wait to get my associates degree in web communications and multimedia.

So far, my college experience has been; interesting, informative, educational, inspiring, and an extensive learning experience. I will admit, I was not as focused when I first started attending college as I am now. I am a returning student currently attending a junior college in Sacramento and I love it! I have financial aid to help me, a laptop, and good grades in all of my classes. I am on academic probation from my first time around, but I consider it as a challenge and I am using it as motivation to do better. I am working towards a 3.5 GPA so I can join Phi Theta Kappa, an honors society, and increase my chances of attending an accredited college in either California or Florida. It has been valuable for me to attend college because it’s a chance for me to earn an education and absorb so much knowledge, while earning degrees in Management, Leadership, and Business Administration. I have the chance to interact with so many students of all ages, the most inspiring professors, counselors, and faculty that make my experience both interesting enjoyable.

Being in my first semester as a freshman in college and living on campus, it has been a great but yet informational experience. This experience has really opened my eye to what a transition from college to highschool is really like. In highschool there was always time for late work, playing around, or not doing it at all. Since i have been in college, i have become more adapt to doing whatever it takes to get help with work, turn work in, make excellent grades, and of course make every class on time. Most students think that transitioninrom highschool to college is not a big deal- believe me it is. Once you are allowed the freedom of being on campus, being the only person allowed to check your grades, and choosing whether you will attend class or not, you realize that everything is now on you. The decision that you make about all of these choices can either be right or wrong-they can make you and help you out, or they can break you and be a big downfall. Another important fact that i have learned, is to make sure you choose the right school for yourself.

I have had many countless, one-of-a-kind experiences I could have only had had while attending Montevallo. The steller, knowledgeable art department have given me five of the most challenging, yet fruitfull and fun-filled years I have ever had while simulatiously earning my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. College Night, our homecoming tradition, gives myself and those who attend it an wonderfully unique experince. It is not a homecoming tradition of sports competition but a competition of creativity and of the arts. It elicits a homecoming spirit like no other from both the current student body and alumni of all ages. The memories of these experiences and relationhips I have formed from them will last me a lifetime. These memories could have been formed no where else other than the University of Montevallo.

I have had a great experience. I feel like I have gained so much more than academic knowledge. I have made numerous friends, met a diverse amount of people from all over the world, gained relationships that will last for eternity, met the love of my life, and countless other gains. I have had no bad experiences here unless you count extremely long finals. I know that when I leave here I will be well prepared for my career and my life in general. All in all, it is great.

I gained many valuable experiences from my college experience. I learned that there was llife outside of Blount County and that it was made up of a variety of people that were very different than what I had been exposed to as a child. I learned that multiculturalism existed in small counties as well as the bigger cities. I also learned that if anything is worth having, it is definitely worth working for and that I have to strive for excellence. I believe that my undergraduate experiences were the beginning of my quest for knowledge and that quest will be ongoing throughout my life. I feel that learning is such a wonderful thing and we should not take it for granted. If I am given the opportunity to learn more then I will happily do so and spread my knowledge to those less fortunate. I believe we have to be responsible in life and part of that responsibility is sharing what we have learned in order to make the world a better place.

My college experience has shown me how to be independent. I have also gained responsibility. I have learned that I can't depend on no one but myself. For example, I have to budget my time and make sure I spend it wisely. I split my time up between attending class, studying, hanging with friends and even more studying. College life has open many doors and opportunity for me. It has been valuable for me to attend not only because of the education , but also because it showed me how to live on my own, how to meet new people , and how life is in the "real world".

The University of Montevallo was undoubtedly the best choice of college for me to make. Our small size--about three thousand students--and subsequently low faculty to student ratio make it easy for us students to get to know our professors, and vice versa. Being a face and name and not just a number at my university has made learning significantly more enjoyable and rewarding for me. I have also been fortunate to make close friendships with my classmates because people at Montevallo are friendly and accessible. The liberal arts environment on campus attracts a diverse group of creative people who are accepting to people who would not necessarily fit in on larger campuses like that of University of Alabama or Auburn University. Because we focus primarily on academics and arts instead of sports, it makes the college experience that much more enjoyable for people like me, whose interests lie in things such as creative writing, art, journalism, and environmental conservation.

College has been an enormous and continual culture shock to me, but I believe that it is very valuable for me to attend; because, not only does it prepare me for my future career in a job market that is increasingly requireing more training and credentials than ever before, it also gives me the social programming I lack in order to succeed and thrive comfortably. I was homeschooled for all of my pre-college education (K-12); and, while I was very involved in my community, I missed out on a lot of the societal interactions and experiences that students of the mainstream system consider givens. The University of Montevallo has been great for me, because its abundant student diversity has allowed me to form friendships outside of my previous close circle; and because I am getting to live through and experience things I had only witnessed on TV before, like eating in a cafeteria, or even just finding my classrooms on the first day of the semester.

I've learned a lot about people and how to better interact with them in personal as well as group settings. I've also gained more academic knowledge.

I did not know a single person at Montevallo when I first came here. But I joined a sorority and did cheerleading and now I have so many friends and know so many people. These people will be true friends for life. I was not used to people being so nice and polite (like holding doors and asking how I'm doing), but the people here genuinely care. Montevallo has made me a better person academically, socially and culturally. I feel a part of the community and like I truly fit here. Montevallo is the perfect place for anyone who wants a positive and rewarding college experience. I would never even think of attending another school!

I recently graduated in December of 2009. There hasn't been a day that has gone by that I don't wish I was still in school. Im actually applying to graduate school with the University of Montevallo. My experience was more than I imagined. I met friends and teammates from all over the world who I have visited at their homes in other countries. I became close with my professors who go out of their way to ensure you are ready for a career. They also go out of their way to inform you of interviews or job openings in related fields. Being a Liberal Arts college, I met so many different people with different beliefs, interests, sexualities, religions and backgrounds. The same people that you feel almost sheltered from growing up in a blue ribbon, predominantly "rich" school. Montevallo students never judged me by if my car was the newest on the market, if my outfit was in the new vogue magazine, if I was dating the quarterback, or by my family's middle class income. The school, the people, the atmosphere is the perfect environment to meet lifelong friends, learn lifelong lessons, and create lifelong memories.

I love the fact that I can gain more knowledge about a career field that I love. Being in culinary school has opened my eyes to what all I can achieve after I get out of school. I have learned that you can not put off things you need to get done, or else you are going to be scrambling at the last minute to get it done. Finally, to always attend class and be on time because if you do not go to class you could miss out on something very important, also that you are paying a lot of money for that class and missing it is like throwing money down the toilet.

My college experience, so far, has been more that I could have ever asked for. The University of Montevallo is the perfect school for me in that it is affordable, small, liberal arts, and has so much to offer. It is located 5 hours away from my home so it is the perfect distance to feel like I've left home, but close enough that I can drive back for holidays. My school also offers a fantastic program for Communication Sciences and Disorders, which is my major. This was the main reason I chose this school above others I was looking at. The teachers and staff are all very helpful and accomodating to everyone, and all my professors are extremely knowledgeable about their subjects and have Ph. D.'s. Lastly, the campus is very picturesque with its old buildings, green grass and trees everywhere, and brick paved roads from the 20's and it is so beautiful. The surrounding town is small and quiet, and I feel very safe here. It is also less than thirty minutes from Birmingham, where there is tons to do. I love my college and know that it is the perfect place for me.

I have learned how to accept all different kinds of people. Our college is so unique in so many ways and that makes me value the uniqueness of all people. We don't have a football team, but we do have the oldest homecoming tradition in the United States. That sort of thing really helps you to understand that just because something is different doesn't make it good or bad. My school places emphasis on learning and professional development, which will be extremely valuable to me come graduation. They even hand out pamphlets that say "Teacher as a Developing Professional"! The education is based on real-world practicality and I'm not the only student that notices. Our campus is beautiful and historic, and teaches us more than just how to succeed in a profession. It teaches us how to succeed in life.

My whole life I was homeschooled. I was not one of those stereotypical homeschooled child that we might see in the media, but going to college was still one of the mose eye-opening and rewarding experiences I have ever had. Throughout my first year of college I was 17 years old, I joined a sorority, I made the Presidents List, and I made friends that will last me a lifetime. My university taught me more than I ever imagined, from academics to life-long lessons. Moving away from home and into a place where I don't know a soul was so scary, but I think I did well. Ultimately, what I have gotten out of the college experience is that no matter what happens to me I can continue to move forward and excel in things I never thought possible. My school taught me that once I graduate I will be just fine on my own.

I smiled in greeting to a girl from one of my classes as I settled into a couch at the top of the Student Union Building, pulled out a blank sheet of paper, and waited for words to flow. As a former homeschooler, I did not have much experience writing papers, and it seemed every class, including Biology, had me writing dozens of papers. However, being forced to look up information and to think through and analyze ideas and concepts on my own has not only given me a deeper understanding of the subject matters, but also the skills and confidence to think for myself and come to my own conclusions. Besides just learning facts and figures, my world views and understandings of how societies, communities, and people interact and function have grown and developed since being in college, providing me with important skills for whatever my future might hold in store for me. I have gained valuable friendships and relationships with both my peers and professors which have contributed to my growth as an individual. My college experience has helped me define who I am and prepare me both mentally and emotionally for whatever challenges might lie ahead.

Academically, I am getting everything I had hoped for. My instructors are great. I am a Biochemistry major wanting to go to Dental School. I feel like I am being prepared for the next step. I also know that my instructors really do care about me. I am a baseball player so I have spent a lot of time with some great guys who I know will be friends for life.

I have accomplished much with my college experience, both personally and professionally. Personally I have developed a higher standsrd for myself and those around me. I have matoured into a young women from a child. Professionally, I know what I want todo with my life and what I need todo to get there. I have a much more open mind to different cultures, religions, and lifestyles. I have evovled into a women that can take constructive critism and inturn life's wrotten fruit into a beautiful garden.

I have learned more at this University than I did in my entire high school experience. The professors are kind and in general try to help you. The student boy is very diverse and open to new ideas and ways of thinking. The students are very accepting and could be described as liberal. This is a great school if you are looking for individual attention from your professors becuase of it's small class sizes.

I have a sense of who I am and how to take care of myself. I have learned how to be responsible and go after what I want. I am very grateful that I have a college that offers so much help.

I have earned my Associate in Arts degree, which allows me to transfer to a 4 year institute and finish up my college education by going through my program of choice (Journalism/Mass Communication). Along the way, I have obtained a great wealth of education pertaining to my major, such as the English classes I have taken (Expository Writing, Literature Based Research, and American Literature). It's also been helpful to attend a local community college as a precursor to my college career. The campus I attended was considerably small and personal, which makes you feel right at home. This kind of atmosphere gives you a chance to become really acquainted with almost all of its occupants, students and faculty alike. You're given an optimal chance to study, take tests, meet with your advisor, have some time to relax (in the student lounge), and participate in small, but lively activities sponsored by the student government association and the school itself. I went to a community college to learn basic studies and earn my 2-year degree, but I also got the chance to become familiar with the college atmosphere, albeit on a small, underwhelming scale the first time around.

Going to college has taught me many things. It has helped me broaden my horizons and step out of my comfort zone. I have learned so much, not only about academic subjects, but also about people and the "real world". More importantly, being in college has taught me new things about myself. It has helped me refine and shape my personal identity. It has taught me to be bold and not to be so afraid of what others think of me, because it is what I think of me that is the most important. It has taught me to share my opinion and stand up for what I believe in, even if I must stand alone. But the most surprising thing that I have learned in college was my own strength. I have done so many things that I never thought I could do- that I was too afraid to do before. And I never would have done those wonderful things if college had not pushed my to try-pushed me to succeed. Looking back now, that was the hardest lesson to learn, but also the most valuable. I can not wait to see what the future holds.

Money has no affect on who you are as a person. I have met the most beautiful people of all my life at the University of Montevallo and none of us have the same financial/education/life background and it doesn't keep us from loving each other. In all of my classes ,the professors have helped me incredibly and not once have they ever turned me down for help. The best thing about the professors is that it is possible to gain an relationship, especially with your major advisor. Montevallo is a very small city but I believe that is the very reason it is both beautiful and worth attending. Its not your usual college football, getting drunk everynight, sacred hazing, experience. Instead, you communicate with those around you and find enjoyment from the outdoors and the intellect of your everyday surroundings. Montevallo has taught me patience is certainly a virtue and love is everywhere in everyone!

One of the most important things that i have learned at the University of Montevallo would be that there are people of different sizes and shapes everywhere. Also i have learned that even if someone is different from you doesn't mean that you will have nothing in common. Many people that go to the university are very different from me, but that doesn't mean that i cant get along with them and have a good time with them.

I am going into my sophmore year at this university, so I have not experienced much. From what I have gotten, it has been worth it. I have learned a lot in all of the classes I have taken so far. I have also learned a lot reguarding my writing, and how to make it a little bit better. I am wanting to persue a degree in psychology, and this particular department is very helpful to all their students. I have not only gotten knowledge, but also made friends for life.

From my college experience I have gained a better understanding of my future career, and have become better at public speaking, having earned a large amount of confidence in myslef to speak to large groups. I have made friends and learned many important pieces of information concerning the law, as well as taxes.

Attending collede has been the absolute most rewarding experience of my life. Being a college student has taught me many life lessons that I might never have learned had I not attended school, such as, time-management, social networking, and truly prioritizing tasks. My experience, though, has not only been rewarding but also valuable. I cherish each August when I return to school. I cherish it even though I work full-time all summer just to be able to attend. I have made friends and lived the real college student life, a priceless experience. All while working toward the greater good of a degree with which I will be able to provide for my future family and live a long, happy life knowing that I will have job security. I would not change a single second of my college career thus far; it has been perfect. I am a very dedicated student and pride myself on academics and Montevallo is a perfect place for me to thrive. What have I gotten out of my college experience? The answer is: a new outlook on life.