University of Northern Iowa Top Questions

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

Thomas

I have gained a lot more knowledge through my college experience, instead of learning about the same subject in Highschool the transition I made to college led me to more intrest in the classes that I have tooken in my college courses. Unlike the Highschool courses, college is flexible and I feel independent with just have a couple classes a day and then going home to study. The transition made helped me feel more grown up and instead of being tied down and being told what to do by the teachers in highschool, the professors in the college courses made it easier for me to help fit in with the class and I can be on the same pace as everyone else. It has been valuable for me to attend college, without my college experiece I wouldn't know what to do with my life. The experience helped me choose a major that I would like to pursue without having second thoughts about what to do with my life. College has helped me out with getting my life straightned out and what dreams I want to pursue to become sucessful without college I would be where I am today.

Jordan

I have gained a new prospective on how I view other people and how other people view me. I have become more open and understanding of people who are different from me.

Aaron

I have only been in college for a couple of months. However I have already learned a lot. I have learned that real life is a lot different than the dramatic occurences of high school. It is much easier to find purpose and do something beneficial with your life in college. There are many student groups that do great things for the community and want to change the world for the better. This has been the biggest difference to me from high school to college and it is a valueable difference to me.

Karelyn

College makes you really open your eyes to problems faced in the world. Your professors help you see the world beyond just your town or high school. They always try to bring in news so that you are up to dat in the world. This can be valuable for many reasons., but I would say the main reason would be that it shows you how to look at the world with a less biased perspective. You always have a chance to debate intellectuals who may feel differently than you on a subject. This is a rare thing to see in any high school campus, and is by far my favorite part of college.

Natalie

I have come to appreciate the differences in background and experience that a diverse campus student body allows you to gain exposure to. Students share themselves and take away a bit from everyone they meet at college, which is probably why studies find that the college educated tend to be more tolerant and open to different cultures and ideas. I realize that I have so much more to learn about my future profession, about people in general and about the world. I have learned to listen more to the ideas of others and to re-evaluate my own ideas and prejudices in light of what I learn from others. College really will be the be the best 4 years of my life!

ashley

I became a better student and appreciated a higher education. Unluck high school, the students at college are committed to improving themselves. I also found the instructors to have a dedication to each student and their overall success. I liked the variety of class choices. For instances, I had never had a course in sociology before and was surprised at how interested I was in something different. College gives so many opportunites to see different areas of interest that might be a better match for a career.

Hannah

Attending The University of Northern Iowa has opened many doors for me. Recently, the Dalai Lama visited my university and opened my eyes to a whole new way of seeing the world. After his visit, I added an Ethics minor to my four year plan because he inspired me to look more closely at my place in the world and what I can do to make the world a better place. Had I not been able to obtain free tickets to this even for being a student at the university, I probably would not have attended. My university also offers dual enrollment through the high school I attended, allowing me to begin my college education long before it was my time. By the time I turn 17, I will have 36 credit hours under my belt and will be well on my way to becoming a doctor. I am very grateful to my high school and the university for allowing me that opportunity.

Jillyn

I have gained much insight on life and my area of study. I feel more prepared to enter the work force.

Raine

Through my college experience, I have made life-long friends and gained enough knowledge to last a lifetime. I've learned to experience life on my own without the supervision of parents. I have made mistakes but also learned from them. The experiences I have had at college have allowed me to have a new perspective on life. I have learned that there is a big world out there full of opportunities for people who have the dedication to succeed. I will never forget the struggles I have had through college or the achievements I accomplished. College is an experience that allows everyone to grow in their own way. A place for students to find themselves. During my college experience, I learn to be a good friend, student, and worker.

Christine

I am a shy person and it has always been hard for me to meet new people. I keep to myself and knew that coming to college would be a new experience. Coming here has helped me to come out of my comfort zone, but it has been a wonderful experience. Getting involved in various groups on campus and classes have helped me to interact with more people and have a more fulfilled college experience. It was hard to be out on my own for the first time in my life, but I have matured and learned so much this year. Not only do I now know how to do my laundry and do the dishes, but I also have learned some life lessons. I know how to plan my time, work with a diverse group of people, and meet new friends.

Carrie

From my college experience I have gained confidence. In high school I was very quite and shy, and in college I have been given a chance to express myself and to really show my personality. I also have learned to think in college. In high school I never had to think. I could memorize facts and do just fine. College has opened my eyes to seeing what is really around me and how everything affects me, and I actually think about it I don't just memorize what is thrown in front of me. It has been valuable for me to attend college because I have met so many people with such diverse backgrounds and from such different cultures. I learn something new everyday and if I didn't go to college I would not be able to do that. I am just very appreciative for the opportunity to attend a University like the University of Northern Iowa. It is truly a wonderful experience.

Emily

Coming to college I had no idea what to expect, a new city, different classes, and living with a complete stranger were just a few of my worries. I have learned to appreciate the values and beliefs of everyone I have met, because everyone is different, and if one doesn't look outside of their own spectrum they will miss a world of opportunities. College has helped me find my niche, and helped me to discover what I love most, which is writing. I also love my political science classes, and I am thinking about attending law school. Without taking chances and broadening my horizons with taking different classes, I never would have realized my potential in these different areas of study. I am planning to study abroad next year and I know it will be a once in a life time experience, where I will meet many new people and learn about the spanish culture. All of my experiences at college have been valuable to me, and have shown me a life outside of small town Cedar Falls, Iowa.

Kyle

Though I am only a little more than halfway through the first semester of my freshman year of college, I would have a lot to tell myself as a senior in high school. I could tell myself to study hard, get involved, and not to procrastinate. While all of these are important, they are not what is truly important in life. In the past month, the person who I looked up to more than anybody else in the world died. My grandfather was a man who lived life to the fullest and was liked by everyone he knew. I was devastated when I lost him, and having to continue with school was very difficult. I know that as time goes by I will feel better, but there is no easy way to handle that situation. That is why my advice applies to everyone, not just high school seniors. My advice is to live life to the fullest and to cherish every moment with loved ones. Tell them how much you love them and how much they mean to you because tomorrow is not promised to anyone.

Jennifer

If I could go back in time and tell myself about college life now I would do it in a heartbeat. I would tell myself that even though the thought of college seems terrifying and scary and new, it is an essential learning life lesson. I would tell myself to be open to new experiences and to try new things. I would say that college is hard and in order to succeed you need to study, go to class, take notes, stay focused and manage your time wisely. If you do not have a vision of what you want in the back of your head you're not going to go very far. Be smart, make smart choices; trust your gut feeling, if something does not feel right walk away. Another point I would stress is to allow yourself to be independent. It is okay to be scared of being away from everything and everyone you have known for your entire life but in order to grow you need to separate yourself. Do not be affraid of making your own decisions or having fun at college, it is okay to start a new chapter in your book. Be only yourself.

Kate

I would tell myself that I shouldn't be afraid to take risks. Branching out and trying new things in college are some of the greatest and most life-changing experiences I have ever had. Signing up to live in the dorms was unplanned and scary, but it was worth all the worry and lead me to gain the confidence I needed to sign up for Camp Adventure where I then spent an entire summer away from my friends and family in a foreign place. I would also present myself with the life-altering question: Do you really want to be a teacher? (I waited until I was in my final year of college to evaluate and realize that teaching is not the career for me.) I was only playing it safe in choosing the education field. I would also like to remind myself to stay strong and resist peer pressure and also to remember what my values are. I only wish I could go back in time and inform my former self of what is to come while resisting from warning of the mistakes I've made and have shaped my life for the better.

Sarah

If I could give advice to myself about making the transition to college, I would make it simple. Remember to smile, take deep breaths, and always bring a pen! I would make it simple, because every new freshman is overwhelmed. Trying to look confident while juggling maps and listening to long orientation meetings is stressful. That's why it's important to remember to smile and breathe. No matter what happens, from getting lost to any number of embarrassing situations, a deep breath will clear your mind and help you find a solution. A smile helps your mood stay positive as well. And the pen? Nearly indispensable for a college student. From writing down building numbers or new acquaintances (to look up on Facebook later, of course) or for signing up for the clubs you were almost too nervous to join (not to mention a pen is an instant friend-maker when you lend it to someone!). College is all about pushing yourself to your full potential, and with a smile, deep breaths, and a pen, you'll always be ready.

Kayla

If I went back in time as a high school senior, I would have talked to my counselor a little more. I think he could've helped me decide where the best place for me to go and what major would be best for me. Also, I wish I would've done a little more research on which school would be best for me and my studies. I only did one campus visit, so I wish I would have taken the opportunity to look at other schools as well. I think I did all I could do in high school, academically, to get ready for my transition. Although, I think I could've learned better study habits before moving on to college including my reading and writing skills. Finally, I wish I would've known to be more outgoing with people. I needed to realize people no longer judge, and people are looking for friends.

Matthew

Hello Matthew, I have some very important advice you need to live by. First of all always attend class, and try your best to be prompt. Allow yourself time inbetween classes when scheduling to give yourself time to prepare for exams for expample. Try and schedule your classes in the morning while you are most alert, most importantly get a day planner and use it. To simplifiy life as soon as you get your books read them. This will allow you to be familiar and more confident for the up comming lectures, also you will be able to participate better in class. Do your homework right away, this will relieve so much stress, putting things off only will result in bad things. Get to know your professors, they are people too and it is much easier to get help from someone who likes you. Respect everyone you incounter and don't be judgemental, you will find you have much to learn and you never know who has the answers. Time management is the key to success in school. Life is a balance remember the your Faith, Family, and friends come first. By the way they are all rooting for you.

Cassidy

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to explore your options. I feel that I went into college thinking I was going to do one career, but changed my mind a couple of different times. I would tell myself to prepare thouroughly for all tests and work hard because college is much more challenging than high school. I would also tell myself to work hard to obtain scholarships because it is a challenge to get through school building up loans. Also, to gte involved in activities or to do some volunteer work because it really builds a strong backbone in helping to choose what career choices you would like to do.

Shelby

When I was in high school I didn't even think about how hard it would be to transition into college because I had seen kids older than me do all the time. I thought it would be a breeze, but boy was I wrong. If I had the chance to talk to myself a year ago I would have alot to say. First, I would say get your head in the books and start a good study habit because that is something that I lacked my first semester of college and I struggled in my classes. Second, I would say be smart with money. Don't spend it just because you have it. Third, I would tell myself to be prepared to have those awkward moments of meeting new people because those awkward moments turn into friendships that will last a lifetime! Last but not least, always remember that nothing is impossible if you just try.

Pamela

College is a time of transition. You go from being taken care of to having to take care of yourself. Even though you have all this responsibility thrown on you be open to new experiences and making new friends. Go out and do things! Don't just focus on getting homework done. It is also okay to stay at school on the weekends and meet new people or just hang out with friends you make. Go to sporting events like football and basketball games. When it comes to choosing your major don't stress too much, but make yourself aware of what there is to offer. Try and take classes that you are interested in that will help you decide on your major. Once you decide on your major make your self aware of the classes you need to take. Make sure there aren't any prerequisites that you need for your major classes. Over all being aware of what is available to you on campus will help tremendously.

Courtney

If I had the chance to talk to my younger self, as a high school senior and give advice about college from what I now know I would say get more involved at your school. For the most part I feel like I was well prepared for the studying and time management part. I attended class regularly and on-time. My grades were good for my first semester and I spent much of my time making sure it stayed that way. One thing I do regret is not being involved in any extra activities, getting a job, or joining any clubs. I would tell my younger self to be brave, take risks, and be involved. Although I had a great first year at the University of Northern Iowa I wish I could have done things differently.

Rachel

Knowing what I know now, I would visit myself as a high school senior and remind myself that it's alright to make mistakes and that every struggle is not only a learning experience but also a growing experience. I would tell myself that my mom will survive the divorce and that I need not worry about how she's doing. I would explain how change is always scary, only because it is new. I would reassure myself that even though friends fade and change, God and family will be there indefinitely. I would advise that I cling to my faith. I would tell myself that even if I get hurt and do not always act the wisest, I will heal and continue to grow wiser because of it. I would let myself know that it is alright to cry in public and that laughing is even better. Lastly, I would tell myself that even though academics matter a great deal, I can't let it consume me. Even though I believe this is true, I would teach myself the importance of saying "no" and saving a little time for me. I would remind myself to always care.

Jillisa

I would tell myself to relax. College is not as hard as everyone makes it out to be. Sure, it takes a lot of studying, early morning, and sometimes late night classes, but if you don't take time to enjoy it the experience will be wasted. Allow time to volunteer for the organization that you've been dreaming about. Join a group or two to gain insight into the "Real World". Do your best and have fun doing it; it is not the end of the world if you don't get straight A's. College is there to prepare you for the rest of your life, take advantage of all the opportunities that the university offers, they are there for a reason. Finally, make time for friends. Getting good grades makes you feel like you've accomplished something, but if you don't have anyone to share it with, what is the point?

Abbie

I would tell my high school senior self to apply to as many schools as possible because the one you really want to get into may waitlist you and not have enough room for you. Also, find time to take the ACT more than once because the first time you take it usually won't reflect your skills. I wish I would've taken it again because it can be one of the last factors that decide whether you get into a college or not. Once you get into college, it may be a wise idea not to room with someone who is close friend of yours because after living with them and possibly their annoying habits, you may grow to dislike them.

Sedona

I would tell myself that outside of class work is extremely important. Putting in extra time and effor makes all the difference in college. I would also tell myself that social life is not the most important thing in college, and that the grades I receive as a Freshman do effect my GPA in following college years. I would also encourage myself to take classes that sound fun, rather than classes that I have to take for Liberal Arts Core classes, there is plenty of time to finish the core classes after I have figured out what Major I want to persue. I would also tell myself to relax and have fun with school, because when there is too much anxiety and stress associated with class it makes school in general boring and feel more like a chore rather than something that can be really fun and exciting. The funnest thing on campus is to get involved in clubs and research, there's so much to learn and college is a very exciting experience!

Cassandra

I would tell myself to start applying for scholarships. You do not get much financial aid. Mostly because the EFC is a joke. Do not blow your money now. You NEED it. Living in the dorms is expensive. Plan ahead if you want to live off campus and save money. Get ready to study hard. You will want to get the most out of this education because YOU are paying for it this time. I had a hard time making friends, so when you go to college, be friendly and get to know others.

Jane

I would tell myself that I would be alright. Being scared is normal but listen to the people who are supportive because they are right. You are a strong person and you'll make friends easily. Don't worry about looking silly because that's how everyone feels when they try something new. There will be nice people there to take care of you if you need it and don't be afraid to ask for help. Also, bring something to stuff around the cracks in the door to muffle the sounds of people at 3 a.m. Take deep breaths and get out some!

Carolyn

If I could go back in time and talk to my senior self, I would tell myself to not worry too much and that everything would work out just fine in all aspects. I'd also tell myself to make sure to get more involved with different activities at college, because that makes transitioning from high school to college a lot easier. Plus it's a good way to meet new people and make new friends. I'd tell myself that people are right, that college is harder than high school, but to not worry about it too much. As long as you keep on top of things and ask questions you'll be alright. The professors aren't any worse than the teachers at high school. As a final piece of advice, I'd tell myself to never be afraid to get involved and ask questions when I need help. The RAs, professors, advisors, they're all there to help you figure out what path you need to take to get to your dream job. All you have to do is ask.

Caitlin

My advise would be to really know who you are and what you like to do. I didn't realize that I was such a homebody, not that thats a bad thing, but I should have thought about going to a school closer to family. I also would stress to myself that figuring out what to major in is important and It's not like you need to decide right away,but just getting ideas down about the things that interest you like sports or design, cooking; just everyday things you enjoy and from there I would build on what majors would allow me to do what I like. I really believe that if you like what you do you'll never work a day in your life. I would also stress to myself to plan everything because by planning you are less likely to fall behind on your studies and in college since you dont have the same class everyday procrastination sets in and I would want to eliminate that all together. Self discipline is key! I would also encourage myself to just do my best because God has a plan for everyone.

Andrew

I would go back and tell myself that colledge is an amazing time and you shouldn't get cought up in all the stress to do perfect on every piece of work you are assigned. You only go to college once so you might as well enjoy the expierence.

Katherine

The most important piece of information that I could give myself if I were to go back in time to my senior year of high school would be to follow my passion. I started at the University of Northern Iowa as a business major. I did this because it was practical and would give me good job prospects when I finished college. Two semesters into college and I knew a business major wasn't going to work for me. I didn't enjoy the classes and found myself not caring about the work I did. I have since changed my major to Environmental Geography. I have found a home in the sciences; I am still anxious about obtaining a job after I graduate, but I feel as if I have started my career path. I find it exciting and am always thirsting for more. These kinds of feelings I would have never found in the business major. I needed to follow my passion and not let fear deter me from doing what I love.

Jessa

The biggest thing that I would tell myself as a high school senior is not to worry, it isnt that bad. I never believed the ones that told me and I wish that I had. No matter what the circumstance is in college, time will pass and things will go one. You have to believe in yourself and you will achieve. There will be smooth and rough patches but you will always get through them. Don't stress and just relax. Also don't procrastinate, it is not worth it. Get the work done and you won't have to worry about it. I would also tell myself to keep in contact with your family. Family will always be there for you and you need someone to confide in when times get tough. Family knows you best and the have your best interests in heart even if they dont show it. When push comes to shove, your parents will help you fight. As much as I would want myself to know all this, I know I wouldn't believe me. You need to learn things first hand to truly understand things yourself. Good luck!

Benjamin

Even though I have only been out of high school for two years, I feel like I have learned infinitely more about life than ever before. If I could give my high school self advice about college, I would first mention that I should lighten up and take things as they come and not be so serious all the time. I didn't realize the importance of slowing down to take in the scenery once in a while. College credit classes are another thing that is very important and would have saved me a great deal of money as well as helping me prepare for the increased class load required of me. Finally, focusing more on determining a direction in life as early as possible. This would have saved me a lot of stress and money.

Leah

There are many things I would tell myself about the college life and transition if I were, once again, a high school senior. I would tell myself not to be scared to get out and get involved. I've realized that by getting involved you meet so many new people and it is a very easy way to make friends that could last a lifetime. Be involved. Get out of your dorm room. There are always so many people walking around the halls or in the lounges just hanging out. Join those people. Make an effort to meet others because if you don't you will find yourself struggling to have fun. This will also help you in the whole transition of living away from home, which can be hard. Meeting people and making new friends will help you overcome this, what can be difficult struggle. I would also tell myself that my job in college is being a student. You aren't paying for college to go out every night and have fun. You are paying to learn. Manage your time. When you know you need to study, study. When you do study reward yourself when you can.

Tasha

If I were talking to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself that studying is what helps you get the grades you want. Grades are mostly based on tests and little homework is given to pad your grade. So as hard as comprehension is for you, you can do it! I would also tell myself to stay at school on the weekends in order to meet new people. Extra curricular involvement is also important in the skills you learn and the new people that you will meet. One last thing I would tell myself is to not be afraid to try new things or make new friends. The transition to college life is so much easier if you are outgoing and not shy like you were in high school. You will be happy once you have come out of your box!

Staci

I would have pushed myself to take more difficult classes to prepare for the long road ahead. I wouldn't change my work ethic one bit, but striving for a double major or a minor would have been a lot easier if I would have taken more college level classes in high school. I also would have mentally prepared myself. College is a hard transition and a time to figure ones' self out. I would have told my self to not be transformed by the patterns of the college ways.

Rachel

Looking back on my senior year of high school, I realize that I was unable to take time to really enjoy the many social experiences that usually take place. Instead of hanging out with friends, attending athletic games or dances, and participating in my usual activites like show choir crew and the drama department I was spending endless hours studying for my bulky course load. Not only was I taking on a full load of high school courses, but also a couple college courses at night. By doing so I was able to complete my overall goal of graduating high school at the end of the first quarter, and immediately continuing on with college. Even though I am extremely pleased with being able to get a full year ahead in my academics, I sometimes regret that I did not get my full senior experience. Looking back, I would tell myself to slow down and allow time for the full experience. After all, what is the point of rushing to reach the finishline when you aren't even enjoying the scenery along the way?

Melinda

If I could go back and talk to myself again I would emphasize how important it is to get organized and know exactly what the expectations are in each class. By being organized and knowing exactly what is happening in each class it is much easier to prioritize assignments and have my work done in a timely manner. This helps to avoid some of the stress that can occur when assignements are due around the same time. I would also emphasize to myself how important it is to find the resources to get help if needed in the classes. Search out the tutoring center, writing center or student advisors so that you know where to get help if you need it. It can be very overwhelming to face all of those classes so you need to know where the resources are for help if you need it. You don't have to feel like you are alone, reach out and get the help you need so that you don't have trouble in your classes.

Alycia

College is an adventure. You think you know what it is going to be like in high school, but you are completely wrong. Don't worry, high school does equip you with necessary tools that you didn't think you would need, but you do. As you start this adventure, you need to make sure you wear high boots, to avoid getting stuck in quicksand that so many students get pulled into, and drop out. Make sure to wear a hat, to protect your head from all the knowledge coming at you, so you are not too overwhelmed and have time to get organized. Drink lots of water and take notes on all the new discoveries you will make, so you may retain the new knowledge to help others. Remember your grappling hook, so when times get rough you can reach to higher places and get help. Sleep at night, not during the day, otherwise you will be attacked by insects that will only slow you down on your journey. Finally, have a heart to learn. Life is too short to let it pass you by. You only go on this journey once, so drink it all up.

Sydney

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, there are a few words of advice I'd like to share. Be true to yourself. College is a time that calls for a lot of disipline and freedom. Remember your inner self and follow your beliefs. Don't try to be someone you think everyone wants you to be. Secondly, don't be afraid of hard work. At be times that college will require so much time, effort and late nights that it might make you want to give up. Push as hard as you can to succeed. Thirdly, reach out and explore new and different atmospheres, activities and people of diverse backgrounds. Make friends with someone you'd never imagine to in high school, join a campus activity that spikes some interest to you. Don't be afraid of the unknown. My last piece of advice, always smile for your well-being, and those around you. There will be many times you won't want to smile because of the stress but smiling is a stress reliever an can make someone's day so much better just by showing that you care.

Emily

If I could go back in time and give my senior-self some advice it would be to be open to new things and to try new things when you get to college. I'm now a sophomore in college and I've started to be more wiling to change and more open to new things but it wasn't easy. If I could go back I would tell myself to be ready for new experiences in college - because they will happen- and to be completely accepting of new and adverse situations.

Robin

If I were to talk to myself as a high school senior there would be a number of things I would say. First I would say to bring plenty of quarters for laundry, and that you'll never run out of uses for duct tape and ALWAYS wear shower shoes in the shower! Secondly, I'd say to leave the room door open and to take more initiative to meet people. I would tell myself not to deal with conflict when I'm emotional and tired, and that it's healthy to swallow your pride now and again. I would tell myself to learn things in order to use the information, not to just pass the test. Next I would say, "Be faithful in friendships, bold yet humble in opinion, patient with yourself and others, and live in the moment. Prepare for tomorrow, but live in today. Life is right now." There are a lot of things I wish I had known. On second thought though, I am thankful for the experiances I had and the lessons I've learned as a result. So I'm not sure I would tell myself anything...except for maybe about the shower shoes.

Katie

Don't worry so much! You are going to transition wonderfully into this great school! You are going to make some amazing friends and do some great things, only after just two years. Stop fretting about where classes are, everything is centrally located and you will have no trouble getting to class. The dorms are great, they aren't luxurious but they are definitely big enough. Professors are not scary. They are your biggest allies. Go to the library or the union to study, great quiet spots and the union has delicious food and smoothies. And whatever you do, do not procrastinate.

Michaela

Take risks.

Ashley

What college you attend is the first of many important decisions in your life as a young adult. Please do not take this lightly! Picture yourself in five years. What do you see yourself doing? Picture yourself in ten years. What kind of person do you want to be? Who are you? What makes you, you? Your college experience will forever shape who you are: make sure you find a college that will help you reach your long-term personal and academic goals. Finding the right college fit for you is so important, and that requires considering many different aspects of what will soon be your life as a college student. What are the academic programs like? The academic advising? What other resources are available? Are there opportunities to get involved? How will you stand out on this campus? What will my social life look like? College is a coming-of-age experience - choose the school that will take you down the right path. You will discover things about yourself that you didn't know about. How exciting, and congratulations!!

James

Don't worry! UNI is the PERFECT fit for you. You will grow so much spiritually, physically, mentally, and your music career will take off! BE PREPARED!

Stephanie

If I was allowed to go back to talk to myself as a high school senior, knowing what I know now about college life, I'd have some major advice for myself. First, I would tell myself that the transition from home to college is a bit difficult but that my friends would be there for me when I needed them. Secondly ,I would tell myself that my study habits must change. As a high school student, the word "study" had no meaning to me. A's were grades that came easily with no effort given. In my transition to college, I received a major wake-up call. Lastly, I would tell myself right off the bat to get to know my professors. They are there and paid to help me. They have office hours and I'm more than welcome to take advantage of those. Who I know will help me along my path of becoming the professional I want to be as well as what I know.

Kathleen

The University of Northern Iowa is the perfect campus for you. It is easy to make friends and get one on one time with your professors. The classroom sizes are consistently small, so you can always ask questions. Your MIS major is one of the leading areas of this school too, and the professors in this area are prestigious and helpful. The social atmosphere is perfect for you as well. Everyone is so friendly you can make a whole new group of friends every night. You will love your college experiance here. Be sure to get involved in a few more activities and volunteer more of your time, especially during the 2008 floods. Work hard that freshman year, college classes are much more difficult! Good Luck

Megan

I would tell myself that I need to do what makes me happy and not what others expect me to do. Also, that a variety of involvment around campus is more important than monopolizing my time in one area--intramurals, campus ministry, and student government are a blast!