University of Southern Indiana Top Questions

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

Wesley

I have applied for this scholarship before and my advice for parents and students about this issue has changed a little. Since I last applied my outlook on USI has change greatly. When looking for a college to attend you should always look for a good academic program that meets your needs. You also want to make sure the environment is suitable for your personality. Do you have to get involved in many different programs, do you enjoy partying regularly, does the college have to be large or can it be a small campus? You must look at rules and regulations for living on campus. Is it too far or far enough away from home? A number of things are involved in choosing the right school. The best advice I can give is to look at all the different issues you are facing when choosing the right school and weigh your options. The school that comes out the heaviest, GO FOR IT! Go into it with a enthusiastic mindset and ready to jump into gear! look forward to experiencing and enjoying any school you choose!

Mark

Choose wisely, make sure you contact the students that are actually on campus and not just the administrators... the students will give the most accurate and down-to-earth explaination to any questions you may have about the campus, instead of the administrator's watered-down flowerly information.

jeffrey

choose the college that best suits you, not anyone else. pick the one you like not what others like

Christina

I think that to make the right decision it is important to visit the campus, and sit in on a class. You should also research online and talk to students going to that University. Make sure your choice fits your personality. If you are a shy modest, person who doesn't like crowds, don't pick a big school. If you like a lot of people, and huslte and bustle, then choose a bigger school. When you visit a school you should get the feeling of "This is right for me." Be sure to visit more than one campus, then you will know what is right for you.

Kylie

My advice to parents and students about finding the right college is this: Always look at everything the school offers and ask yourself questions. Does it have activities you would like to get involved in? How much will it cost me? Are the people friendly? Does it have a major I would like and if I don?t know what my major is, will there be a way to help me decide? Is this campus accessible to other parts of the town or city it?s located in? Will I do well here, or just party all the time? What sports can I get involved in? These questions helped me when I chose which school I wanted to go to. It?s also a good thing to remember to not go to a school just because a friend, significant other, or family member wants you to go there. If you know that you?re not going to like a school, or that you won?t be happy there, then you won?t do as well as you could be if you had gone somewhere you really wanted to go.

Traci

dont just sit in your room studying get out and enjoy life make friends and memories

Melissa

First off i would want everyone to know that it is important to study hard and do well in highschool. Not only does it determine if you get into a good college or not, but it also helps you build good study habbits which help you once you get there. As for advice about making the most of the college experience, i'd say you should live on campus. There are so many things you miss out on living at home or off campus, so much interaction goes on in the on campus appartments. You really do make friends for life while you're in school and i think if you dont live on campus you miss out on meeting a ton of very interesting people. I love my school, but i love my appartment just as much. I know when i go home i miss it, so i'd say if you can you should live on campus. Also you should study hard, but dont forget to have fun.

Kayla

I would tell other students to try and have a good idea what career they would like to pursue after high school. If you don't have any idea, take a placement test to see where your strengths are. Then if you can decide what area you want to study, research colleges you can afford to attend that best fits your area of study. If you are offered a scholarship at more than one college, pick the one fits your area of study and lifestyle. If you don't like cold weather, then attend school in a warmer climate. Don't waste your time at college, have fun but study hard to be the best at what you want to do for the rest of you life.

Cassandra

Finding the right college for a new student takes a lot of things in to consideration. The academic goals of the student are a large part of the decision; the school must have the program that the student is interested in. A second, equally important aspect is the student's personality. If a person likes to have intereaction in classes, a smaller college might work best for this type of student. If a person is content with listening to a straight lecture, with little time for questions during class, a larger campus might suit this type of student. The financial situation of the student might help determine the schools that work better. If a student will need to work during school, opportunities for on- and off-campus jobs might be important. Making the most of the college experience requires to open up to new things. Taking classes that don't seem to be directly connected with the program one is taking can let a student find new interests and maybe hobbies. The student's social life also helps make the most of the college experience. College friends can be very important life long friends.

Michelle

It is very important to take into consideration several factors before choosing a college. First of all, a student's personality must match the school they go to in order for it to be a comfortable new home and learning environment. For instance, a quiet, shy, introverted person may want to stay closer to home or friends and may want a smaller college atmosphere or at least smaller classes. Secondly, finances are very important. A student should apply to their top choices but keep money in mind in this day and age. A student should do all that is possible to apply for scholarships and probably should pick a college that thinks enough of him or her to offer a scholarship for him or her to go there. That will help with the financial situation, which eases stress, and will boost the student's confidence in him or herself as he or she begins with classes. Thirdly, a student should not just quickly make up his or her mind about a college based solely on location, reputation, or popularity with their high school peers but instead take the time to research other aspects of the college.

brian

My advice would be to really understand yourself or in the case of parents really be honest about who your child is and what she is capable of then research,research,research. I have seen far too many people struggle and fail because of trying to be what their parents expected. I would also recommend living on campus and make a point to get involved it your college experience after all.

Elianor

i would like to advise all parents before they make any decision to send their children to college, especially out of state. i would suggest that they look into academics ability, campus safety and environment.

Erica

I would encourage students to research prospective colleges/universities. I would encourage exploration of the fields of study offered by each institution, along with exploration of potential career fields. It is very important to select a field of study that you will enjoy. As a high school student, it is very difficult to choose a major without having experience in any real job settings. My advice would be to participate in as many job shadowing opportunities as possible and weigh the pros and cons of each potential profession. This will help you to determine your likes and dislikes about different professions. Once you have determined which career path is best for you, then select a college/university that offers that field of study. As four year universities can be expensive, I would recommend taking pre-requisite courses at a junior college, then transferring to a university. As for making the most of the college experience, I suggest you take this time to explore what life has to offer and what you truly want out of your life and future career. Keep an open mind and discover what is available to you.

Courtney

I would advise any student attempting to find the right college for them to consider the following things: distance of the school from home, quality of your education for the price, location of the campus, quality of the school's programs you are interested in studying, and number of students that typically live on campus. Incoming students may think they want to be as far from home as physically possible, which is all well and good, but it's important to be sure that the location of the campus is in a place where the transition from home to college is made as easy as possible. For some people this may mean a campus located near a bustling city with a lot to do, for others it may be a quieter, smaller campus with a more homey feel. Also, it's very important that the school you are considering has a strong program in the area you wish to major. Be sure to ask about the job placement rates for students graduation from the school with degrees in the major you wish to pursue. Finally, just try to get involved at your school and have fun!

Sarah

Don't pressure kids to go to a Big 10 school, the college you went to or an Ivy League School. They are seniors in high school and it's time to start treating them like adults. I know that in your eyes they will always be your little 10year old boy/girl but its time to give them freedom. Not only the freedom to choose what school they want to go to,but freedom to be who they want to be. Give your children the freedom to make their own mistakes and learn from them. When your children do make mistakes, be there to support them. Don't lecture or criticize. Just love them and support them all the same. Let them know that it's not the end of the world and that everything will be okay. That is my advice to parents. My advice to students is much simpler. Live life. Live and love living life to the fullest. Don't be scared to try something new and take a risk. Life is an adventure and college is the perfect time to enjoy that adventure. Live and Love with all of your heart.

MARY

VISIT VISIT VISIT! VISIT THE CAMPUS AND TALK TO THE COUNSELORS SO SEE IF THEY WILL BE HELPFUL AND IF THERE EASY ACCESS TO THE PERSONALE.

Renae

Research and visit as many colleges as possible and know what you want out of college

Aimee

One, make sure you go away to school to become independent and get the full college life. Also, make sure you start early on your search and choose a school that reminds you of home. And when you get to school, don't be afraid to go up to someone and become friends. Don't be afraid. Remember, they are in the same situation.

Ryan

Please take your time selecting a college. Pick one that allows you to stay focused on your goals. There are many distractions, that include drugs and alcohol, that can deter you from getting the most from your college degree. Staying focused will allow you to rise above the rest and stay ahead of the pack. College should not be easy, if it is too easy, you are probably not learning anything. It is designed to push you to your limits, so that you can overcome even more challenging situations that life has planned down the road. If your professors make a statement that you are not sure is correct, challenge them. They are human and make mistakes like everyone else. You will stand out to them and are much more likely to be noticed by anyone who is paying attention to your academic presence. Read books that are related to your major. Not only are they easier to read than a standard textbook, you can make references to such literature in class. This makes you an appealing study-buddy. Group studying is one of the most effective way to learn everything that you need for a test.

Leah

I would say that it is truly the choice of the student. It's better to allow the student to go with his or her gut instinct as to which college to go to. Distance from home should not make a difference. Cost should play a role, but it should not be the deciding factor as to which school to choose because there is always financial aid available. Picking a college was tough for me, and when I finally narrowed it down to two choices, it was even more difficult. But in the end, I chose the school that I found most appealing, both visually and academically, and where I thought I would be the happiest. Even still, if a student finds that the school that he or she picked is not right for them in the end, most schools are very willing to help with the transferring process.

Erin

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shawn

Look around an go to as many campuses as you can. Don't settle for the first college you think of. The best thing to do is visit on a weekday so you can see campus when its in motion.

Tela

My advice is to go where YOU want to go, not where all your friends are going or what is closest to home. Pick the university you feel most comfortable with and check financial aid options because that is important. I recommend getting involved, like joining the Greek family. Have fun but work hard because afterall, that's what you're there for.

Britni

Visiting colleges is a good way to get a feel for campuses and to talk to the people personally. Asking students that go there is a good way to get answers about how the college is also.

Michael

Everyone is going to struggle a little with classes and living on there own, so don't get down if you do poorly in a class. Almost everyone has to retake a class at some point. And don't be afraid to meet and hang out with new people, there are a lot of awesome people out there. And parents should let there kids figure out what they want to do and then just support them.

Brandon

I tell people that wherever you go to make sure to enjoy the experience because it's one like no other. It's the first time that most kids are independent which means that some growing up and responsibility is involved. There is definately plenty of fun to be had, but the key is to work hard so that you can play hard later. Make sure that wherever school you choose to be sure to give it a chance. Lots of people miss out on great opportunities because of being homesick, which is normal, but it will pass and you will grow from it.

Leila

I would advise both parents and students to listen to eachother and really work together to make the best decision possible for the student, both educationally and financially. Parents should guide their student but not completely control the decision process. The student needs to make a confident decision about the college they will attend because without that confidence, his or her college experience will not be the best it can be. Whether a student is going for journalism or health administration the student must be confident that they can better themselves and achieve their goals all while taking in the college experience, which is an exciting time in there life where they are molding their future possibilities. At the end of a semsester in economics, my professor asked, "What is your added value?" The question is really taking a look at what a person can bring to the table to differentiate themselves from the rest of the people out there trying to make a name for themselves. When looking for the right college I think it is very important for the student to believe that their choice will bring added value to they have to offer.

Kadi

I would choose a college that offers the best courses in order to help you quickly and efficiently complete your major. Talk to employers in your area in the field you are planning on going into, and let them recommend schools that they think highly of as far as a degree goes. There are many well respected universities to choose from.

Austin

Pick a school that fits your personality, not necessarily one that is popular. Also, visiting the campus is the best way to learn about it, rather than just looking at the website.

Wesley

College is what you make of it. At every college you go to you will find hard workers and you will find slackers. You will find loners and socialites. Although many school have have reputations for different characteristics, the best thing to do is actually visit the campus and follow your gut feeling. You will connect with a campus's vibe for one reason or another. In any case, college is never going to be a piece of cake. With classes and homework and monumental decisions to be made, it is essential that you love the school you choose if you want to get the most out of your college experience.

Makenzie

Finding a college is a job in itself. Colleges can not be chosen from information only. A visit to the campus is absolutely necessary. It is extremely hard to pick a college because it will help determine your future. Picking the right college for you is very important and should reflect who you want to be. A college should not be chosen on the social life, but for the education you would be getting. And don't let your friends influence you into making the wrong choice just because you want to go to college with them. Be smart, do your research, and find the college that's best for you. In the long run, you won't regret it! I know I haven't!

Gary

Find someplace that makes you happy. Don't just follow your friends, you'll make many, many more. Put yourself out there and take chances, be daring, you only have one life to live afterall.

Wesley

From my experience as an athlete(XC/TRACK), school spirit award winner in high school, energetic, excited, enthusiastic person, I need a place where I can expend those characterestic in the most productive and enjoyable manner. I need a school that has a lot of school spirit with fun activities and events to indulge in rather than parties, drugs and ALCOHOL! the Activities Program Board (APB) tries to produce things for students to do, but with an unmotivated community, it's hard for them to be successful at providing those needs to me. My advice for those in search of an enjoyable and productive college experience is to do your research. Talk to people who attend your prospective school. Find out what the community is like. Is it unmotivated, lacking in school spirit and morral, with few options for entertainment other than partying? Or is it the opposite? Although it may seem that entertainment is my biggest focus in college, accademics are a main priority as well. I must have both, in order to get the most out of the college life. Another thing for athletes: make sure your sport is funded by the university. I'm looking into transferring.

Stephen

USI is a great place for parents to send their children who are worried about them leaving home. It has a familiar and friendly feel. It is quiet, safe, and affordable. It is a great school for practical degrees: education, nursing, business, etc. I would not recommend it to someone who wishes to attend a university with a rich history, as the school was founded in 1965. All in all, a nice school. I swore I would transfer, but in the end this is my home. Nice classrooms, great recreation center, and it is always expanding. It will be interesting to see what changes will be made on campus just by the time I graduate, let alone incoming freshman.

Amanda

Make sure you visit the school before choosing or sending your child away from home. Talk with the teachers and students who are on campus at the time of your visit. Know if you will be comfortable living or sending your child there without you watching over them. Make sure you are happy whenever you end up because if you aren't it is hard to just make yourself happy in and area you are not comfortable in.

Katie

Be active. Go visit colleges that intrest you! Tour them! Ask actual students from the college what they like! Compare prices! Find out what programs the college offers. Find the right size college. Students, make your own decisions on where to go. Be nosey. Be confident. Be ready for a new chapter in life.

Jessica

It's a great college located in a town that is safe. The size of the classrooms and university is the perfect size for students. It's a great college to get your degree and it will be money well spent.

Samantha

Look at what is important to the student. If it is social interaction, pick a bigger school with a lot of social outlets. If it is academics, pick a school that is know for the students major.

joseph

have fun but not too much

Nick

Make sure you go to the college to visit. You can look at brochures and web sites all day long bu nothing matches walking around campus. Talk to random students, see what they think of campus and what they would have liked to know. Ask what the worst things about a school are, the school will talk to you all day long about thier strengths, but no school is perfect and they all have something they are not good at. The area that the school struggles at may not be a big deal to you, but then again, it may be a dealbreaker. Pick somewhere were you feel at home. Dont just pick a school because it has a big name or a fancy program, you will spend years of you life there and you will not succeed if you are miserable.

Donovan

Take your time trying to find the right school and don't settle.

Matthew

Do what right for you. Find the affordable perfect fit for yourself.

Irina

go to USI

Kelsey

My advice would be to make at least a couple of visits to the campus. Meet with financial counselors, professors, coaches, talk to current students, walk around and see what is offered. The best way to choose a college is to "feel" it before you decide. The surrounding area is also important. Off campus housing, recreation activities, shopping, entertainment venues. Try to find a college that provides you with the types of activities you would enjoy (i.e. varsity sports, intramural sports, greek life, etc.) Get involved as soon as you get settled in. It's the best way to meet new people and make the connections that will aid you when you need it. Make the most of the years that you are there. Make it the kind of "experience" you want it to be!

Kayci

My advice would be to visit the campus with the majors that are most interesting to you. When I chose the University of Southern Indiana, I researched online about the variety of majors offered, scholarships available, and once I visited USI I knew it was the place for me. My major is Radiologic and Imaging Sciences, so I chose the college with the program available, and with the Bachelor Degree Program. However, I am attending an out of state school which does cost extra money. If a school in your state has your major, I suggest trying there first.

Kirsten

My best advice to students trying to pick the best college is to go with your instinct. If you visit colleges and you get a feeling that its where you belong, then that is probably where you are going to be happiest. Don't be afraid to do what you want to do instead of what your friends or parents want you to do. It is your future and your experience, not theirs. To make the most out of your college experience, I would say to get involved. It is the best thing I ever did for myself. You will meet so many interesting people and friends for life just by stepping out of your comfort zone and joining some clubs or groups. Also, remember that school is very important, but it isn't your entire experience. Make sure to have fun while keeping your grades up, and just make the most out of your college career.

Ayres

Parents, students, and guidance counselors should diligently research prospective colleges and academic majors together in order to construct a well-informed career path. Once the student is accepted and registered for classes, he or she needs to study the assigned material, go to class, ask questions, and participate in class lectures in order to pass the academic standards of any area of study. Finally, students should be encouraged to develop a balanced sense of wellbeing by getting enough rest, eating healthy, exercising, and participating in extracurricular activities to increase social participation. I believe the aforementioned advice can aid future and current college students in the process of achieving higher learning.

Shawn

I would say to let the kids go with their first instincts but to not let them or you base their decision simply on high school friends. High school friends are great and some will even last the rest of your life, but college is an opportunity to meet new friends and have connections later in life. Parents must encourage their kids to simply pursue their dreams and do whatever makes themselves happy, regardless of money or other's opinions.

jana

Make sure you take a tour of the campus, do your research before you even consider the college. This is a huge experience and you want it to be a pleasant one.

Mallory

Always tour the college before you decide the right one for you. Participate in as many activities that you can with the college and attend any type of welcome week they might have for incoming freshman. I suggest that any freshman should live in the dorms there first year. You will meet so many more people than living off campus. It will help you adjust to college life and you won't feel as lonely and be more likely to have closer and more friends.