University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus Top Questions

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

Jennifer

Dont party too hard your freshman year, you will regret what it can do to your GPA. Study hard, get to know your professors. Its okay if you don't know what you want to do, you will figure it out when you figure it out. Enjoy college, it only comes once, You have your entire life to work.

Megan

I would research more schools to attend and seek out more scholarship opportunities. I would also spend more time in a career search and trying to match up my interests and skills so I have more information on what I should study for a major. Counselors really don't do that much for you. It's really your responsibility to do the research and find out everything you need to know about EVERYTHING.

matthew

Break up with your current girlfriend because all she would do is hold you back socially and academically.

Heather

Heather, stop worrying about which schools are supposedly the "best". Pretentious thinking is not going to deliver you to the future to which you aspire. Think about what is important: family, quality education, and financial security. A college close to home won't be the death of you- you could find exactly what you're looking for in your own backyard. There are a million paths in life and the possibilities are endless. Isn't that exciting? So instead of concerning yourself with what everyone else thinks, start customizing your own personal path. You know what's best for you if you just listen to yourself.

Melanie

I would tell myself to not worry about what people are going to think of me. I would tell myself to stick to my choice of not joining a sorority because it really isn't worth the money and I'd make better friends outside of greek life. I'd tell high school me to be open to new opportunies and activies when I get to college. I'd remind myself to call home a lot and visit my family often. I'd tell myself to not get too stressed out because the projects and test will all come to an end eventually and the less stressed out I get about them, the more fun I'll have. I'd mostly remind myself that it's important to be my own person and stay true to what I believe.

Madeline

When you are choosing a college, be sure to visit many colleges. You cannot get a feel for a college from a brochure; you have to actually travel to the school, tour the dorms, classrooms, buildings, and campus, and meet some students and faculty. Also, unless you are 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} certain about what you want to major in, do not go to a school that specializes in only one area. Students change majors many, many times, and it would be unfortunate to decide you want to major in art when you are attending an engineering college. If you are certain about what you want to major in, be sure to write down specific questions to ask the staff of that major at your college. Important questions could be about class size, scholarship availability, quality of equipment, the amount of hands-on experience, and job availability in that field after graduation. Last but not least, apply for all the scholarships you can get your hands on. It can never hurt to apply; a lot of scholarship money goes unawarded each year because no one applies for it. Most importantly, find a college that makes you feel comfortable and happy!

Christopher

The best option when choosing a school, is to look for a school that offers programs that are of interest to you. When you narrow your choices down, look at the success level of students who have previously graduated from that school or university. To make the most out of your college experiance, you should do everything you possibly can to be involved with the scool, while also keeping up with your studies. Such activities include sporting events, study groups, or joinging clubs or organizations that help you get out and socialize with our college students.

Spring

It is important to visit the college because a lot of the time the student will get an overwhelming feeling of belonging when they get on the campus. It's also important to consider finances because the parents don't want to be struggling and it would be disheartening for the student to have to come home due to tuition costs. Students need to be aware of the immense transition and to be prepared for a lot more work, and a bigger need for self-control and good decision making. It is also important to make time to go out and to get involved; the friendships you make at college will last a lifetime.

Tyler

The best think to do is take tours of different schools and get to know a few of the students attending the school.

Mike

Choosing the right college doesn't have to feel like work; it can be a lot of fun! When you narrow down your choice of colleges and are able to visit the ones still on your list, make sure you get a feel of the whole campus, not just the dorms or classrooms. Make sure you talk to students, ask them their honest opinion on things such as student-to-teacher ratios in classes, their average workload, and how the campus is on the weekends. Also, be sure to talk to a professor that teaches in the area you think you would like to study. Ask him or her about the classes in that field of study. Are they challenging? Do they allow for creativity? Also, ask them about study methods and tutoring opportunities. These can make your college experience much easier! When you enroll and get on campus, make sure you get involved in the activities council, helping to put on events such as homecoming and spirit weeks. These allow you to make lots of friends and have a lot of fun, all while getting your name out around campus!

Carlotta

When searching for the right college, first, you should look at their list of majors. Check and make sure that college has a program for what you want to do. Next, you should look at the various extra-curricular activities that you might be interested in being involved with. Also, the job oppurtunities, on and off campus. The size of the different classrooms is also a big thing. The student wants professors that are willing to help and encourage participation. While in college, make the most of your experience by being social and attending study groups- they help you make friends and learn your material at the same time! Definately obey curfew and parking rules. Paying citations is not fun at all. After all the studying and following rules, don't forget to have fun. These are the best years of your life, remember!

Quy

They should not worry about what kind of campus their children are going to. What matter is the school has to should have the a staff good at teaching whatever the major the child going to take.

Jojo

Choose the colloge that will help you choose your major because if you go to the wrong school that does not have your major then you will have wasted time and money coming there. Also to be sure that you do your resaerch on the school you choose because it may be too expense for you to pay for. Remember it is your choice on where you go to college at do not let your parents or guardians chose your destiny.

Robby

I don't know that I really have any advice because I grew up wanting to go to the University of Oklahoma. I live near it and my family have always been OU fans so it's been my dream since childhood. It's just where I always thought I'd go to school when I finished high school and now I'm here! I guess, just apply to all the schools you're interested in and see what money offers you get!

Brittany

Mostly the choice is up to the student, the parent does not always have the same needs as their child and would choose a different school. The student should write down what they think is important about a school. Once they have a list of everything they are looking for, rank the list in order of importance to you personally. After you rank your priorties go look and see what each individual school has to offer and how closely it matches up to your criteria. If a student cannot reach an opnion after that they should talk to someone who they trust and will give unbias advice for them. Follow your instinct and do not give up on your goals and dreams. Anything is possible do not let anyone tell you you can't do it or its not right for you. No one knows you better than yourself.

Whitney

Get involved as soon as possible. It makes a huge difference in your overall college experience.

Kia

Find out about their scholarships and academic status.

Matthew

when your looking for a college look for one that will chalenge your mind and your way of thought. Your future is more important that the present. but its also important to have fun now!

Adryan

I would definitely tell parents to become as active as possible in the college experience with their children. Not only the social aspect of college but the financial side as well. A lot of times, students feel pressured and are overwhelmed with the amount of work that finding the right college requires. Parents should actively help their children find scholarships and financial aid options that will be suitable for them. I had to do this on my own which made things very difficult. And for the students, once you get to college, please don't take the time there for granted. Learn as much as you can because college is the preparation for the real world and you won't always be allowed to rely on your parents. Have enough self respect to take interest in yourself and your abilities and do your best to be as prepared in providing as good a life for yourself as possible. Build relationships with people in both the working and social environments and I guarantee that you will succeed.

Chelsie

As I imagine my senior year of high school and the college selection process, I can imagine the conversations between my parents and myself regarding price, location and qualities of colleges. If I could go back in time, I would tell my parents three things. First, I would remind them that I will be living in the town and attending the school. It sounds simple, but parents need to understand the child's decision should count. Second, I would tell them to get involved. As much as I would have protested, my parents' opinions really did matter to me. Finally, I would remind them that in-depth information is easy to find. With college comparison websites, as well as the schools' offical websites, all the information needed is available on the Internet. As for myself as a prospective student, I would remind myself of one word: relax! The process seems so daunting, but there are many resources to help. Students should take advantage of their high school's resources as well as information available online. Finally, I think it's important to remind the student to get excited. There's nothing like getting that acceptance letter!

Elise

Weigh out the pros and cons of each school you are accepted to and choose which school has the most factors that match what you need. You want to choose a school that makes you feel most comfortable, since you will be spending quite a bit of time here. Also, different schools are better for certain types of learners. For example, I prefer a larger class size with less individual attention since I am an independent learner. Choose what's best for YOU!

shana

Start planning early. Take the most challenging high school courses you can handle. Strong academic preparation makes you a better candidate for admission and greatly improves your chances for success in college. Make a list of colleges you might consider, spend some time putting together a list of the criteria most important to you (location, size, academic programs, environment, co-curricular activities, etc.). Explore all possibilities, and visit each college. Get all the facts for paying for college up front. Check with state and federal agencies to see what kind of financial aid they offer.

Jenna

Choosing a college that is right for you is kind of like choosing just the right donut. You want to choose the one that fits your tastes, leaves you feeling full, and has the promise of possiblity. Finding the right college takes research and hard work but after all the research is done, sometimes you just have to make a donut decision and "follow your gut." Find a place that fits your academic goals and personal needs and take a bite out of the wonderful possibilities that your college has to offer. Apply yourself in the classroom and open your mind to be filled with new ideas and ways of thinking about the world. Seize opportunities to intern, study abroad, serve your community, and become involved on campus-these are the experiences that will add rich flavor your collegiate life. Finally, in the midst of your academic efforts and campus involvement, take the time to indulge-nurture budding friendships and explore your new social scene. Like a donut, your college experience will be gone in a flash, so make the most of your experience and allow it to nourish you, both personally and academically, for your next step in life.

Tyler

Choosing a college is a serious decision and means different things for each individual. First find out what you are comfortable with. If you are a little timid you don't have to jump feet first into a large campus and everything that comes with it. Know what is around the campus, especialy if you are going to live on campus. You will get tired of the same scenery all the time so make sure there are things to do off campus; remember you will be there for up to four years. Once again each person has their own preferences so a four year college might not be in the cards for everyone. A better plan could be to go to a smaller community college for two years and then transfer. This could be an option if the student is conserned with class size or financial aid. It might not be an attractive idea but could help in the long run. There tends to be a lower dropout and failure rate among students who attennd two-year colleges.

perry

Give yourself as many options as possible and visit the campuses if you can. Let our student experience everything they can and don't put too much on them, especially the first semester. Encourage involvement in campus life.

Linda

Visit as many as possible. Sit in on classes if you can. Talk to alumni from different schools. Compare ratings with future employment.

Bethany

Finding the right college can be tough, but don't fret. Do your research and then pick the one you like the best. Also, remember that college is only as a good as you make it. If you don't work hard academically or make the effort to get connected socially, you probably won't do well in your classes or have much fun. If you don't know what you want to major in right away, that's okay. When you do pick something, though, make sure it's something you enjoy, not just something that will get you a high-paying job. If you like practical fields such as engineering or business, that's great. However, some people are more gifted in areas like language, history, or science. Those fields are just as beneficial and educational as the more "practical" ones. Stretch yourself: Don't set academic goals that you can't reach, but don't set goals that are too easy. Make an effort to get involved in organizations; you probably have more time than you think for the activities, and you'll like getting to know people. And treasure your time: It goes fast!

Aubrey

College is an exciting time, a transition period that prepares a person for a bright and successful future. My advice for someone who is planning to start college is this: choose a school that fits you. Find a place that will allow you to get the most out of your education and thoroughly equip you for your profession. Also consider the extra-curricular opportunities that you will desire as a college student. College is a great time to find new interests and participate in activities that you enjoy. Once you have arrived at your chosen school, dive into the college experience! Strive for academic excellence, meet new people, get involved, and have a lot of fun! Make the most of every opportunity that you are given. Know that you will probably go through some difficult itmes along the way, but allow those times to strengthen your character. Use your college years to grow as an individual and become a person who is ready for the many opportunities that lie ahead.

Megan

do what you love!!!! don't get a degree in something just for the money! do what you love, because that is what will get you through college---choose the college that helps you get where you want to be!

Tammy

I would suggest looking for the college that will provide the greatest education for the major!!!

Stephanie

You should always choose a school that is going to match your goals and make you feel comfortable. No matter where you attend most of the learning that will help to make you successful is going to come from outside the classroom. You must be able to apply what you learn in the classroom to life . Get involved in the community and organizations around you. Find a mentor that will encourage you and push you to expand yourself.

Guinevere

Find out what you want to do with your life then find a school that fits all of your personal needs

Elyse

College is the most incredible time of you life! This time is paramount to finding out who you are as a student separate from your parents and who you are as a parent separate from your child. College is a time that shows you how to build your life whether it is an intellectual stimulation, a social life being carved out before your eyes, or an experience that teaches you how to dream for the best! When choosing a school, I believe it is extremely important for you to decide first how involved you want to be during college in extracurricular activities. This will play a role in deciding whether to choose a large or small university. Another important issue to look into is that of your degree. What is it that you want to do with your life? Is there a better place in the country than where you are currently that will help you succeed in your life dreams better? These are all big considerations to take in when looking for a college, but most importanly, decide where you will be happy. It's no one's choice but yours! Good luck!

Jordan

Make a list of all the things you're looking for in a college before starting anything. You're the one going to college which means you want a school you can be proud to attend and one that fits your individual style. Abundance in activities and moderation in all aspects of life are the best ways to view schools. The best universities in my opinion are the ones that are evolving every semester and ones that can offer you more routes and options than you could possibly take in one life time. These schools are concerned with a diverse student body even in secular areas of the country and give every possible oppertunity to their students and treat them as competent, adult individuals. Last but not least, you have to have the final say in where you go. Don't let financial complications and distance slow your college dreams. There's always a means to an end.

Megan

Don't assume anything! Especially with a college like mine, many students are "born and bred" to go to this school. Instead of raising a child and expecting them to go to their alma mater, parents should encourage students to do research and find the school that is right for them. Everyone is different, and every campus has a different personality. For students, my advice would be to find a group. It doesn't matter if it's a sorority, a club, or a campus ministry. Finding a group that you can truly call 'home' makes all the difference.

Kyle

To find the best college for a student you must not only go visit the campus but also go talk to some of the faculty or students in the areas you might be interested in for your major. The best thing you can go do when being at college is find the balance quickly between school and fun. Once you are able to figure that life seems to ren a lot smoother and stress is not so bad because you have friends to keep you going when the academics get rough. Also go to sporting events to see the school spirit and try to be involved with the organization that represents your major. That can be a great chance to find a job right as you graduate.

Elisa

Take multiple college visits!

Kevin

VISIT!

Noah

My advise is to visit the colleges you are considered, visit with the professors, maybe sit in some classes, and really try to get a good overal feel for the college and the department that you plan on entering. Doing this will allow you to find the right college for you. As far as making the most out of college just make sure to experience different things and try those new things. This is the time of ones life people really find out who they are so it is essential to gain these new experience. You might find something that you love and gain a new ambition for your career.

Anna

To find the right college, take a campus tour! You'll learn so much more from a tour and the students you'll meet than you ever will from a brochure. You'll get first-hand accounts about classes, teachers, and an overall sense of how students view the college--the view that you'll have! Even more importantly, you'll learn whats important to each college, and how you will or won't fit in at a particular school. By visiting all the schools you apply to, one will stand out as a "fit," the place you want to be a part of. Once you're there, to make the most of your college experience, seize the day! There are so many different people to meet--meet them! There are world renowned speakers and performances--attend them! There are teachers who are passionate about what they teach--take their classes, even if it isn't a part of your major! Focus on school, but go have fun too! You'll never look back on your experiences with regret if you get out of your room and take hold of the opportunities that lie right outside your door!

Craig

Spread out your search and try some schools you didn't think about. OU was actually pretty far down on my list, but when I came for a tour of the college, I was blown away by what they had. After that, get plugged in. Join clubs, go to the games, make friends. These people are going to be life long friends and who you turn to when you need help before and after graduation.

Ryan

Coming into college stay on top of your studies. Work now play later. Don't give into peer pressure because the decisions you make today are the ones that will decide your future. Choose a college that is stong in your profession. Live your life one day at a time and always know whatever you put your mind to you can do it.

Stephen

Choose one that feels right. Study hard and enjoy the ride.

Kathryn

One important piece of advice that I would give is to visit as many potential colleges as possible. Because I did not visit many schools, I was not exposed to all the possibilities that universities could offer. In addition, it is very helpful to visit the campus of a school while it is in session because you can get a very different feel from being there in the midst of classes. Because I visited my current university during a dead week, I did not realize that the majority of students belong to fraternities and sororities, which is not something I am interested in. Although doing research on schools helps narrow down the vast possibilities, interaction with current college students is probably the best method for finding the right college. Once you do select your school, it is best to involve yourself in extracurricular activities so you can make friends and familiarize yourself with the school. Also, making friends of different ages helps you to obtain many points of view about college life.

Leah

Acquire as much relative information as possible. Don't just rely on the shiny pamphlets of laughing people. In order to find the best college, prospective students should first compile a list of things they absolutely must have in a college, such as wireless internet across the campus or affordable student housing, and a list of things they absolutely can't live with, like large class sizes or inadequate library resources. Check schools against these lists. Look at desired programs of study-is this college strong in these areas? Also, whenever possible, students should audit classes or take a tour of the prospective campus, and ask currently enrolled students about programs, social activities, and dorms. The official tour intentionally shows the campus in the best possible light, so go ask someone who will tell you what it's really going to be like. Estimate expenses, and be realistic. Factor in everything, including quarters for laundry. Decide if the school will be worth attending in terms of finances. Can you get enough financial aid? Are you okay with tons of debt? Apply for every scholarship possible. Overall, remember that this isn't a life or death thing-you can always transfer.

Maggie

I would have to say that realize that state schools are just as good as any other school, you can get a good education with less money. Think about how you will feel when your away from home, because I know a lot of people who have gone out of state then transferred back. I would also say to be careful with what you choose as your career choice, what you've grown up wanting to do may or may not be what you've always wanted to do. Take a variety of classes your first semester to figure out what your really interested in. Also, get involved on campus, its a good way to be well rounded , meet people, and get yourself out there.

Kathryn

Apply to a lot of schools. Apply for as many scholarships as you can.

Taylor

When choosing the right college, a person needs to choose it for completely selfish reasons, otherwise they would be choosing for the best interest of someone else (parents, boyfriend, etc.) and can create a completely negative experience. To make the most of a college experience I would recommend to meet as many people as possible, teachers and peers, who become your family and support system. Also get involved in every aspect, work hard, set goals and achieve them. Those guidelines set you up for success and a great career and life ahead.

Elisha

My advice would be to not go to a school just because someone else thinks or wants you to go to that particular school. This is a choice that could potentially determine the course of the rest of your life, and you need to choose carefully and wisely. In the end, if you choose the college that makes you happy, then the people who really love you will be happy for you. To get the most out of the college experience, students definitely need to have an open mind. I grew up in a small town, so when I first arrived at my large university it was somewhat of a culture shock. I quickly learned that if you have a good attitude and an open mind, you will succeed and end up loving the school you chose.

Roger

Don't go to a college just because your best friend is going there or because your parent(s) is/are alumni. Visit many in-state and out-of-state universities with an open mind but most importantly don't let someone else dictate which college you go to because it could be something you end up regretting. When you get to college, make sure to get to know the people on your floor or at least within your immediate vicinity because you'll be spending a lot of time with them. Also, don't spend all of your time sitting in your room or in the library because while learning is a big part of college, there's also more to it than just the learning.