University of Scranton Top Questions

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

Caitlin

My advice would be to calm down and take life as it comes. Society sets high rules for people who are privileged enough to be able to attend college and take out student loans. When I arrived at college, I took everything very seriously diving in my studies, seeking out academic help and focusing completely on my future. I am now six months away from graduating and wish I had just calmed down my freshman year and enjoyed myself more. Life isn't all about the future, its about the present. I realized this after a few semesters. You can enjoy yourself and get your work done. I wish I had done more activites -- future students should dive in to anything they want to do. Remember, the world is yours to explore. I like to think that college teaches you two things : academic and knowledge for your future career but also life skills to get you on your way to adulthood. College was a great experience and I cannot believe is almost over. Future students should enjoy every moment of their college life because before they know it the real world is just right around the corner!

Tiffany

If I could go back to senior year in high school, I would tell myself that I need to stay focus because lets face it; most seniors see that last year of high school as a time to slack off. Slacking off in senior year continued through my first semester of college. It was a rough start for me transitioning into college because most college professors expect you to be on top of your game and I was use to taking the easy way out. I would also tell myself that to enjoy college; there is no need to be nervous. I started college as a freshman, with so much anxiety. I thought I would go there and people would be rude and I wouldn?t find anything. I soon realized that people there are so friendly and will help and give you advice. College is so much fun and has a great atmosphere. I would make sure I told myself to get involve as well because that is where you know what?s going on around campus and you meet new people. I learned that the people you meet at college usually are the friends that last a lifetime!

Sarah

Take more AP classes

Rebecca

Trust your children. The more you trust them the more trust they will have in themselves to make the right decisions.

Donna

I would give the advice of following your heart. A school may look good on paper,or seem like it would be the most practical decision. However,if you aren't happy about where you're going, you're not going to get a lot out of your college experience. A lot of my friends went to colleges that their parents had decided on for them, and they wound up either partying their way out, or failing out. So follow your heart, and do what is going to make you happy.

Kenneth

Make sure that you are definately sure of what you want to do in life. Research your school and make sure that your career of choice matches with the degrees that are presented at the school of choice.

Amanda

Once in college get involved as much as you possibly can but don't let it interfere with your school work. Remember this should be the best years of your life, theres not much responsibility yet so live it up and make your parents proud!

Jessa

To find the right collge be sure to do an overnight visit and attend some classes. To make the most of the college experience work hard and get involved!

Colleen

I would say to parents to not pressure their kids into a certain school just because of money. Ultimately, I'd say that even if the school is more money, to let your kid go to it if he/she will be more happy there. Also, do not procrastinate or get nervous. Both parents and children are nervous at this time, so tempers may rise. Just keep your cool.

stephanie

go wherever you feel comfortable...the better you feel where you are the better education you will receive

Thomas

take a school that is worth the money...overpaying is not worth it

Jessica

Try to choose a major as soon as possible to help drive you towards your ultimate goal. Always work hard, and never forget to have fun while doing so.

Eivind

Go to the school and spend the night. See how the people interact with eachother as well as looking how the student community intereacts with the location.

Mary

When you are visiting or touring a college, you know it is the right college for you at the moment you step onto campus. You will see a landmark, a building, or perhaps meet a person, any of which irrationally convinces you to make 'this place' your home for the next four, or more, years. The rational decisions to attend 'this college' may come later when you speak with an inspiring and motivational professor or staff member in your field of interest, or when you realize that 'this college' will support you as a pre-professional as well as a human being. There is no 'one way' to make the most of your college experience, because you will look back and realize you have learned so much from the mistakes you have made. Try to get involved in a diversity of campus activites and events, ones that broaden your horizens, make you happy, yet do not take away from your time to study. The true test of a superior education comes after graduation, when you will realize that you would have done everything differently-- meaning that you have grown and matured exponentially at 'this college.'

Jasmine

The advice I would give both paretns and students in making the most of thier college expierence is to find a college that best suits your child. You will be there for four years, so when you are visiting schools and you feel it is the right fit for you then that is the right school for you. There is a school for everyone! When you go on college tours ask as many question you want answered becaus ethat also helps a lot. When you choose the school of your dreams make the best of it, because it is what you make of it not what other people say or what you hear.

Joseph

Apply to the schools that interest you most. After you have been accepted, make sure you visit each and every school and choose the one that not only offers you the best education but makes you feel the most at home. Without a feeling of home, which in turn equals a feeling of safety and security, you will not be able to succeed or do well academically.

Crystan

Choosing your college is an important decision, but one of the biggest pieces of advice I can give is not to take it too seriously. Do your research, visit campuses, but don't drive yourself crazy, and especially don't force yourself into a decision because you think you need to pick a school early. Have fun making your choices, because whatever you pick will impact your life greatly. For me, I never even considered going to my college until I first came to visit the campus. I could immediately picture myself there, making mine an easy choice. However, I have no less than four good friends who have changed schools at least once, one who even returned to her original school. So weigh all your options, look for a school that will challenge you, that has a good location and appealing activities for you. But most of all look for a school where you can be happy. College can be the hardest, but most exciting and freeing time of your life. Open yourself up to new experiences and to new people, because in the end, college is really what you make of it.

Andrew

Visit the campus, stay over night if possible. You will know the right school when you are there. As far as making the best of your college experience, do not be an island. Get involved with clubs, teams, and activites.

William

Make the most of it the first time around. Going to college is an incredibly wonderful experience that will pay you back 10 fold once it's over. Selecting the right university, the right major, and the right activities in college can and in most cases, will have an impact on the rest of your life, and so it's important to be methodical with your decision. When selecting a school, don't always go to the most well-known school or the most prestigious one. Rather, go to the school that you will not only gain the most from educationally, but also where you will be able to maintain the right level of balance while studying for four+ years. Selecting your major is also tough, and so I would recommend taking classes in many fields that interest you and consulting with your professors and mentors--do not major in something because "it sounds cool!" Finally, college isn't all work all the time--join a few clubs, play some sports, and have fun meeting and interacting with your soon-to-be best friends for life. Careful preparation and prudent decision making will make you have a great four years!

John

H

Andrew

Find the place where you love the people and academics, and are able to get the most out of your education and social life.

Laurette

Find a college financially rounded where you will be comfortable. When you find what your interested in, hold onto it and fullfill your dream. There is nothing more rewarding than finding your passion in life. Choosing the best school will complete this dream for you so choose wisely.

James

Find a school which is right for you, as a student and as a person. It is crucial to enjoy what you do, both in the working world and academia. Look for a community in which you feel you belong. You want to select a school which best embodies your desires and beliefs. Most especially, you should enjoy yourself. College is not all about studies. It is important to make sure you still do the things that make you who you are. Never lose those defining characteristics, never quit a group or stop a hobby you love because other people might think it uncool, you would be surprised how many other people there are who share the same interests. Do not fret the little things, we all have a bad week or a bad semester, so long as you can pick yourself up and try again, you will be fine. Lastly, take an active role in your college experience. Participate in programming activities or student government, you will make friends for life.

Bill

Meet as many people as possible at first, then weed out your best friends and you will have made a family for life.

Danielle

Think of what is most important to you about what you want out of a school. Some apparently insignificant things (like weather, the local area, quality of the gym and library) can actually end up more important than you realized, even more important than things such as school size, political stance, and dorm quality. Think of the things that will be important on a day-to-day basis, and choose from there.

Patrick

Students, enjoy it while you can. Parents put up with it for 4 years, kids appreciate what you do for them when they see you pay this type of money just for them.

Ashley

Obviously this is not high school anymore. Your parents are not around to push you to study, do your work, and attend class. My best advice to you is not let all the freedom go to your head. Its better in the long run to keep up with assignments and don?t let them build up to the point where a million things are all do at once. The syllabus is your lifeline. Professors will not always remind you when things are due. Be concerned about your grades before the fact, not after your already failing. Get to know your professors. Most of them are here because they love teaching and want to see their students succeed. Be sure to check the syllabus for when their hours are and whether you need an appointment. Don?t forget to have fun and stay active. There are so many clubs, sports and intramurals on campus. Join something, it?s a great way to make friends, have fun, and fight of homesickness. Relax, if you have questions, don?t hesitate to ask. Everyone on campus was new one time to, they understand. Have a great year!

Molly

As a recent graduate and member of the working world , I have been able to reflect on my time as a student at the University of Scranton. I have a deeper appreciation more now than ever before for all that I learned in the classroom, but more so for what I learned of life, love, leadership, service, and most importantly, what I have learned about myself. If I could give any advice to parents and prospective college students about finding the right college and making the most of the college experience, it would be this: 1. Trust that you will be exactly where you are supposed to be for a reason. Opportunities are limitless and sometimes things do not go accordingly to plan, and that is okay. There are no right or wrong answers, and if you have faith in your child/self to realize that, you will find your way and be happier while you do. 2. There are thousands of excellent schools in this country that could offer you a wonderful education. Your experience is what you make of it by the people you meet, places you go, things you decide. Ultimately, it is up to you.

Katie

Start researching early. There are many schools out there and there is a school for everyone. As well, academics are important but not if they are going to be cut throat. College is also about learning who you are and about other people. Being able to be in activities and growing new friendships are important as well.

Jennifer

Don't worry too much about if you've found the "perfect school." I always heard about people who walked onto a campus and "knew" this was the school for them. That never happened for me, but I am completely happy at the school I chose. Just come to school ready to love it - it's much easier to be happy that way.

Lucia

My decision of which college to attend was extremely difficult. I didn't get into the school that I wanted to and I was feeling despondent about the whole college experience in general. I was not looking forward at all to going to Scranton. The second I stepped onto campus on move in day, I felt such a sense of belonging that I knew I had made the right decision. My advice is to not stress. You are meant to go where you go. While it may not seem perfect at the time, I am a strong believer in fate. Let fate work for you. If you have put in the time and effort needed, you will be happy and succeed where ever you end up!

Sherly

To students: Fill your parents in on what you're looking for in the right school, they only want to help. This affects their lives, too. Try looking at schools that aren't too close to home. Living on campus will help you to grow up and become independent. Be careful in your Freshman year; mistakes can and will be made. You will make it through the mistakes, so take the time to live too! While having fun, remember your work comes first. Your friends don't make your GPA for you. Call your parents; they will always love you. To the parents: Take the time to consider your child's interests. You may not want to see them go, but it'll be the best for them in the long run. Do not let cost get in the way of your child's 'dream school'. Financial aid does help. If not, it'll be hard to pay for, but this is your child's education; what better investment? Don't call your child too much; let them live! Trust them. If you raised them right, they'll make the right choices. If not, they'll learn. They love you.

Sarah

The most important part of searching for the perfect school is on-campus visits. From my own experience, the minute I walked onto campus, I knew the University of Scranton was the college I wanted to attend. In case you do not have that "A HA" moment, there are several steps you can take to ensure you are picking the right college. First, talk to students and ask them the real questions: what are the dorms like? how are the classes? are the students friendly? Students who are not under the pressure of a group tour will be more willing to give you the most honest answers. Second, talk to professors and academic counselors to make sure they have the program that best suits your needs. If the professors are helpful before you attend the school, it's a good indication they will continue to interact this way once you are admitted. Third, discuss your financial aid options. College is expensive and a great experience does not have to cost top dollar. Finally, trust your gut! You did the research, you asked the questions, now it's time to start listening to your heart and you're on your way!

kate

have fun choose a school that fits you

Kelly

What I would say to parents is that this is something you really need to stress to your child is more an individual choice than your choice. Though it is important to keep monetary limitations in mind, especially with today's economic crisis; finding the right college for your child should be more focused on the academic and social needs of your child. There are always grants, loads, scholarships, ect to help the financial situation. For children, I would say that you should sit down first and decide what you want from your college academically. What topic areas interest you? You do not have to necessarily pick a topic, but keep some in mind so that you can pick schools with strong programs in these areas. I would also say that you should pick a school that fits your academic and social needs. Do you have enough self motivation to go to a party school and still succeed? Can you live far from home? Would you want to live far away from home? Lastly I would take into account the type of environment the school is, city, large school, small school, or rural area.

Tricia

Scranton wasn't my first choice; in fact, I only applied to appease my parents. I had never looked at the school, and they made me come up after I was accepted. It was a rainy cold Saturday morning in April, and halfway through my tour, I knew I was where I was supposed to be. You or your son/daughter will feel it when they're on campus, so make sure you take a tour. I know it's a lot of driving, but it's worth it. I wouldn't change it for anything; I met my very best friends here. And even if they're not a D1 Athletic School (we're D3), you can join clubs. I met these best friends on the Crew Team, which is a club sport. Don't overlook anything. Walk around campus, talk to a student; they'll most likely be more than willing to talk about their experiences and give their advice. Most of all, choose the school that's right for you, not anyone else; your friends, parents, significant others. YOU. Good luck and maybe I'll see you on the commons! :)

Ryan

Let the soon to be college student decide upon where he/she would like to attend. As much as the parent's imput is influential and shaping the decision of where to attend, it should not be the decideing factor. Let that rest upon the student.

James

Talk to as many students as you can to get an idea of the school. Their opinions will be completely honest and unbiased because of course they have nothing to gain from talking you into coming to their school. Also, try to get a good idea of what you want your major to be. If you do, you can find what school can best compensate you by talking to students and faculty in those particular fields.

Jessica

Ivy League schools are not the only school options. There are other prestigious schools out there and these might even be a better fit. The key is finding a school that will emphasize what you have to offer. Search for schools that offer internships and other opportunities to see what the working fields are really like. For instance, my school requires that students in the Nursing major perform Service Learning a set number of hours. Currently, I am volunteering at a Nursing Home and this practice will later help me in the hospital setting. I will gain experience on how to communicate with older people. Once you search for a college by looking up information online and attending Open House, the student should develop an overall feeling for the environment and realize which school would allow them to prosper. It is also not necessary to complete over ten different applications to schools because a person can not possibly have the time to personally visit each school to get the vibe for it. The schools that made a positive impression should be given full attention. Last but definitely not least, once being accepted into college work hard and enjoy it fully.

Ashley

Let your kids choose the school that's right for them, regardless of the price. That should be the last resort. And don't holler at them for experimenting -- be it with alcohol or a major.

Cassandra

You don't have to know for sure when you go to school everything that you want, but being open to finding those things out is what college is about. Friends, knowledge, and personal identity are the three things that have described my college experience. I transferred to the University of Scranton from Rutgers University in my sophomore year. At Rutgers, my classes were large lectures with typically 200 students, and I had to take a 30-minute bus ride to class. My iPod was always on, and my teachers would never recognize me. Now, I see my friends everywhere and my classes are never more than a 10-minute walk. My teachers are helpful and socially this is an amazing place to be. Chances are you don't know everything about yourself now, but if you take what you do know, and apply that knowledge to what kind of school you feel you'll flourish in, the right school will not only educate you academically, but you will leave with an undeniable sense of self, and that is an amazing feeling.

Andrew

University of Scranton is the right choice.

Adrienne

You really need to visit the schools. The pamphlets and pictures do not give you an accurate representation about the culture of the school. Its not the end of the world if you do not get into your first choice, theres a school out there that is a good fit for everyone.

Catherine

Go with your gut. You will wind up in the place that is best for you. Once you get there, make the most of ot. get involved and find your adventure!

Maureen

Picking a college is difficult. You have to make a decision about where to spend the next four years. When choosing which college, narrow it to a few and really look into those. Take into account how far from home you want to be, the size of the school, the quality of the major program you are interested in, costs and student life. Find out if the school has a club or activity related to what your interested. While your main focus of college is academics, you need extracurriculars to keep college interesting. To make the most of your college experience, you need to find the perfect balance between academics and outside the classroom life. College is a once in a lifetime experience and it is important to make sure you are satisfied with everything. Make sure you keep your grades up, but don't pass up something amazing to solely focus on your academics. College isn't meant to be spent in the library, but it isn't about partying 24/7 either. Learn to balance these two extremes and your college experience will be very successful. Be adventourous. Study Abroad or take a class you never considerered before.

Kathryn

Advice I would give parents and/or students about finding the right college and making the most of the college experience is, to make sure you make your decisions based on your gut instinct and first choice. And to ensure that you have an enjoyable experience get as involved in school activities as possible.

Ashley

I would have them be sure to visit it and talk to really college students at the school to see what the school has done for them

Aram

Visit and stay around to see the social aspect

Joseph

Finding the right college is only difficult if you make it difficult. Explore the college that makes you feel the most comfortable and worry about what you want to study when you arrive. My decision process for college was one of my most stressful times. I applied to six schools. I ended up going to the only one I did not have an official visit. Instead, I enjoyed a night staying on my own time. I got to know the student population without any bias opinion. I felt comfortable and I have never regretted my choice. I have only regretted making my decision more stressful then it had to be. As for making the most of your college experience, college is full of young people who are looking for different things. It is easy to find somebody with similar interest. It is a fun and exciting experience.

Sophia

One of the most important steps prospective students and their parents can take is to talk to as many current students as possible (from freshmen to seniors). It is important that you get a chance to talk to students on their own, so that you can be sure you're getting an honest answer. Admissions representatives are there to sell the school to you, so you need to reach beyond these initial contacts to see if the school will be a good fit for you. Ask each of the students you meet about their own personal experiences with classes, administration, professors (or TAs), exams and grading, career-counseling, financial aid, academic advising, social life, residence life, campus dining, parking, campus culture, study abroad feasability, after-college plans, and anything else you can think of. The more you ask, the better understanding you will have of how the school works and of whether or not you will be able to thrive in its environment. Also: try this question for students and teachers: "What is your favorite class (that you have taken or taught), and why?" The answers will vary, but you will know when it feels right.