University of St Thomas-Saint Paul Top Questions

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

Tom

I have heard people voice uncertainty before and after arriving at college. They don’t know what they will study, going in, and they don’t know what to do with their degree after leaving. I feel that I have more certainty than that for two reasons: the first, that I have nearly finished earning a professional degree and the second, that it is from a liberal arts school.During my time in college, I have been working to earn a teaching license. It is a qualification that I am passionate about; I am eager to teach or at least work in a school because the license, while not a guarantee of employment, shows that I have this passion and that I am ready to work for the benefit of our nation’s youth.However, earning this professional degree from a liberal arts institution means that I have been obligated to take a set of classes that show me different approaches to knowledge. I have been thankful for this obligation because I feel that it prepares me that much more for teaching. That is what my college experience has given me: a readiness and eagerness to serve future generations adeptly.

Lisa

I think the most important thing I have gotten out of by college experience so far has been a better sense of self. I have a much better and fuller understanding of who I am, who I want to be, and how I fit into the world. Going to college was the first time that I was really out "there" on my own. I had to learn how to adapt and respond to situations I was not used to do, and in doing so, I learned a lot about my ability to deal with changes and things that are strange to me. Many of these new situations centered around interacting with people that have come from a very different background from me. Thus, college has given me a better sense of the diverse world I live in and what I can contribute to it. Lastly, I want to mention how college has given me a better sense of self in regards to the future. Upon entering college, I had no direction in this regard, but the whole experience has revealed my strengths, weaknesses, preferences, etcetera that has allowed me to formulate a clear picture of my future.

Tonia

I had a breif college experience right out of highschool that I did not get much out of because I chose the wrong field. However, since this short encouter I have had much experience in the work force without a college degree. It wasn't until recently that I learned just how important a college degree is. I am pursuing a degree in early childhood education because I have had the opportunity of working with children, teaching them dance. I worked with ages 3-18, and I also have two young children of my own. It is so amazing to watch a young person learn skills for the first time that they will have for the rest of their lives. By completing the college course and making this an everyday rewarding career, I cannot think of anything that would be more valuable. Therefore, through my own life experience I now am aware of the necessity of education and look forward to passing this on to others.

Elizabeth

I have learned more about who I am both as an individual and as a part of this community. I have gain, ot only facutal insight, but also the wisdom and confidence to apply myself to my learning.

Matthew

I have attended three different universities in my career as a student. At the first two schools, I was disgusted by the lack of attention given students by both the faculty and staff, and emphasis on research instead of education. At Saint Thomas, I have found a school that gives its primary attention in all capacities to the individual student. Despite paying tuition that exceeds most other schools, I feel that I am recieving an education that will open up new doors for me the rest of my life. I am offered personal guidance and tutoring at any time, and have not once been turned down by staff when in need of answers. The student body at Saint Thomas is warm and enthusiastic, and socializing is quite easy. The alumni network is large and well connected, providing unique career options. I know without a doubt that choosing Saint Thomas as the place to finish my education will be one of the best decisions I have ever made.

Kevin

I entered college as a young, motivated boy with more ambitions than could meet the eye, but family issues and personal problems lead me astray. I turned to heavy drinking and gambling that brought me to a place I never wanted to go; a place of true emptiness where the heart feels no pain or hapiness. I became truly wrapped up in the college party lifestyle and was stuck. In essence, I was truly lost in life without anyway of finding myself. Now, entering my senior year of college still in the midst of an inner battle with myself I found myself completely powerless. I truly had no ability to change the person I had become, until one day in my Christian Theology class my professor told us that God simply asks us to listen. Not being a religious man at all, I walked into a church and sat there all day. I can't explain what happened but that was four months ago and since then I have not gone back to old ways. My college experience was simply a test of faith, one that I failed for quite some time but now I have found the way.

Terese

Coming from a public high school where sterotypes and kids with a lack of determination unlike myself, are present all around me, I was eager to step away from that and St. Thomas seemed to be the best fit. My college experience here has been so worthwhile; every day I'm meeting someone new, learning something different and engaging in new opportunities. The oppotunities presented to you in college are unlike any other. I've gotten to try so many new and exciting things here. am in a group called PULSE; we break sterotypes by dancing. I am a student leader; I mentor freshmen students who don't live on campus. I work with an organization called Up till Dawn, who works in part with St. Jude Hospital, rasing money to find a cure for cancer. My chances and opportunities here are endless and I will be able to carry them all with me after college and throughout life. I would never tell anyone that college isn't valuable or worth your time; I've learned so much about myself and I still have two more years of my college experience. I will tell you, it is worth every day.

Ashlee

I have learned many lessons in trust, human dignity, and responsibility here, as St. Thomas. My first semester, I lived on campus in a dorm suite with three other roommates. There soon was conflict with these close living quarters. I learned some hard lessons about trust and caution through that experience. My social work major teaches us the definitions of human dignity but my time at UST has taught me more than a textbook ever could. It is the most diverse place I have ever been (I know, I sound sheltered) and it has taught me that everyone really does have something to offer. All of the people I have crossed paths with here are great, they are intelligent and lively. Their stories about their lives and backgrounds never cease to amaze me. "Never judge a book by its cover" really has meaning in my life now. Responsibility is another great quality I have improved at UST. I have learned to manage my time and think about my words and actions every single day. All of these are skills I will be able to carry with me for the rest of my life and I wouldn't change a thing.

Emily

I have received more than just an education from my college experience. I have learned how to manage my time wisely so that I can work, have a social life, and still keep my G.P.A to about a 3.9. I have also had an extremely valuable experience working with people that are of all different age groups. I enjoy college much more than high school because I do not have to learn with people that are only from my class, I am able to work with people that are younger or older than me. I enjoy college very much; I enjoy the atmosphere, the people and being able to set my own schedule. College has been an exceptionally rewarding experience that I know will benefit me in my future.

royce

I have received knowledge on my specific career field. In addition, to the knowledge I have obtained I got hands-on experience with the daily duties that I will be performing. I am being prepared for multiple careers in the law enforcement field with the knowledge and hands-on experience that my school offers.

Matt

In only one semester of college so far I have learned so many different things that I will be able to use for the rest of my life. I have become a much better writer than I was, and no matter what my career is, that will be useful. By being forced to meet new people my social skills have also grown. This again will help with my career, especially if I am planning to become a business major. These are the most valuable things that I have learned in college and I still have three and a half years left. It is important to attend college because I am learning great things that will help not only what I do for my life, but will hopefully help other people as well.

Grace

I decided long before I started applying to colleges that I wanted to go out of state. I was not running away from my home life but I wanted to prove to myself that I could start from scratch. Over the past two years, I have done just that. Throughout that time I have gained a better understanding of self and have learned so much in the process. For me college is about building relationships. Yes, the classes are important but they are not what I will remember in ten years. I choose to stay up late talking to a friend instead of doing my homework right away because that is more valuable to me. Part of starting from scratch was starting out with no friends. I never realized what it was like to have to make friends and prove yourself to them. It felt so unnatural in the beggining which is why I wanted to become an RA. The RA position has given me the chance to help others through that unnatural phase at the beginning. This year has been full of growth because in giving of myself I have truly learned to live life to the fullest.

Pascia

As of March 2010, I began my college career trying to obtain an Associates Degree as a Physical Therapist Assistant. So far, I have loved my college experience at Brown Mackie College. I have met so many great people and my professors are amazing because they will do whatever to help in every way possible. I have learned so much about being a Physical Therapist Assistant in such little amount of time, but it makes me want to keep on going to class and learn everything I need to know about being the best PTA I can. I have learned different ways to study to be effective on tests and when discussing the information we were given. This has been an amazing ride and it's so valuable to me because of my three-year-old son I'm trying to provide for. In the end, I will be able to look back and thank God for this experience.

Hannah

If I have gotten anything out of college, it has been an appreciation of hard work. I had always considered myself to be dedicated. As a single teen mom, graduating high school and succeeding in college have been huge obstacles. However, I know that education is the only way to secure a better future for myself and my son. I hope to instill in my son the importance of education; how learning, just for the sake of learning, is the key to bettering oneself. Despite my struggles, I have met many people in college who have inspired me, and make me realize that all hardships are relative. I have met people who grew up in subsidized housing, and had to wake up at 4am to be on the bus by 5am. I have met people who are refugees, struggling to learn English, and spending twice as long on their reading. I have met students raised by their grandparents, because their single mom was killed by a drunk driver when they were only four. Nothing in this life is handed to us. Every day is a blessing, an opportunity, and a privilege to work hard and make a change.

Brittany

I have learned a lot while attending college. It is a lot different from high school and I have found that for every hour I spend in class I need to study at least another two hours outside of class. I think it has been very valuable for me to attend college because neither of my parents graduated from college and with todays economy you need to get a good degree in a field that will be avaliable when you graduate from college.

Jessica

The calsses I have been taking at college have really opened my eyes to how broad my subject really is. It has been valuable to attend because college has given me opportunities that I otherwise would never have had, like getting to work in the lab with a graduate student or going abroad to study conservation and its connections with culture. I am also learning better organizational, time management, and social skills. Finally, I am hopefully shaping a better future for myself and my family. I hope that the experiences I learn now will give me a better perspective, and continue to benefit me throughout my life.

Ryan

So far my college experience has been great! All the staff are very helpful during my time there. It's vauable for me to attend for myself and my children. It's very important that I succeed. My children and myself deserve to be independant.

Jessica

I have gotten much more than I expected out of my college education thus far. I have gained knowledge beyond my wildest dreams, experience in my field, discoveries about myself and my values, and opportunities/experiences that I wouldn't trade for the world. In all of the classes I've taken, including generals, I have retained a lot of the information because I simply wanted to. The professors inspired me to do well in all of my classes which encouraged me to study hard and go to all of the classes. My experience at St. Thomas thus far has also lead me to make discoveries about myself and my values. I've discovered WHY I've had certain ways of thinking and what my stance is on current issues in the world. St. Thomas is also a place for a lot of opportunities and amazing experiences. There are an extraordinary number of ways to get involved on campus and to meet incredible people. Just being involved in Festival Choir, I have had amazing experiences with amazing people.

Jordyn

I could not be more thankful for the oppurtunity to attend Saint Thomas in Saint Paul, Minnesota. As a junior, I feel like the people at Saint Thomas are my second family. It is such a welcoming place and truely a pleasure to be a part of such a strong spirited place. Being an athlete (girls basketball player) at Saint Thomas, I have had the most amazing experiences. From traveling to other schools around the state to flying out of state for a pre-season tournaments it has been the experience of a lifetime. I have learned to value how much of a blessing it is to be a part of a team. There are so many lessons learned from athletics, and learning how to be a good team member is something I will keep with me forever. I will use that lesson especially in my future job prefrence which will be in the marketing field. There are so many team oppurtunites in the marketing profession and Saint Thomas has truely prepared me to be the best I can be in my future and that is something I will value my entire life.

Michael

My choice in college stemmed from a desire to follow in the footsteps of my father who has a small business as well as to expose myself to a stimuli that was not part of my upbringing to date. Both goals have been achieved to-date. UST given me the opportunity to enroll in classes which have been preparatory and provoking; in addition, the campus make-up afforded me many social situations never experienced during my pre-college upbringing. I am confident that, by graduation, UST will have had a very positive role in molding me to be prepared for life's future challenges.

Alexandra

I am getting an education that I will use for the rest of my life. I love my school and am learning great in the small class sizes. It is hard to afford but worth every penny. The education and friends I have here makes me know I chose the right university to attend!

Joshua

well I have Just started college about seven weeks ago but so far I have gotten alot out of experience there such as, learning criminal laws, safety on farms and ranches. I have also Learnes alot about confined space, and i just certified for forklifting. This is just the begining of what I am going to learn and experience at my college and I cant wait to learn more.

Kayla

College has been a life-changing event for me so far. My college experience thus far has raised my self-esteem in amazing ways. I have met so many awesome people in my classes and have proved so much to myself when it comes to applying myself and succeeding. Attending college allows me to constantly set new goals for myself, both short term and long term. I suffered a severe traumatic head injury when I was thirteen years old that changed my entire life, so being able to succeed in college is very important in allowing me to continue to take charge of my life.

Isaac

In accordance with the purpose of pursuing a secondary education, I have gained much knowledge of the scholarly nature. Although I value this aspect of my academic career greatly, I also believe the social and interpersonal skills one learns while attending college is equally as valuable. As all college graduates know, potential empolyers are not merely looking for a student who has fulfilled the minimum academic requirements and earned a diploma. They are looking for applicants who display a keen interest for learning and are driven to perform at the best of their abilitiy, but also have demonstrated their versatility through communication and practical abilities. This is why I value my education so dearly. In college, you are completely immeresed in an entirely foreign environment surrounded by every type of individual imaginable. At first, this is scary. However, as you learn to adapt to this unfamiliar place, you gain a whole new perspective on life. Being uncomfortable can be beneficial at times. It is my belief that the situation college presents students with is extremely unique and trying, but when one can overcome its obstacles, they leave with a whole arsenal of talents both in and out of the classroom.

Vanessa

My college experience has tought me not to underestimate myself. I am the type of person that never thinks I will do well on an exam and I usually do better than I expect. This gives me the confidence that when I am ready to persue my career that I will succeed. That confidence alone has made my college experience valuable.

Brett

College is allowing me to learn technical skills for my career and is also helping build the confidence needed to go through life. I've also developed life long friendships with classmates and teachers alike that will build my network of support in my career and also in life.

Gotsmanlai

It is very fun to attend college with peole that has the same interests as I do. I am just making the most out of college experience, meeting new people.

Ashley

I believe I have gained a lot from my short time at St. Thomas. I have gained a lot of knowledge I did not have before I started here. The people I have met and the professors I have had are very respectful and are eager to see me succeed. I believe having the name St. Thomas itself on your diploma is very valueable, especially in this economy. I hope that with further pursuit of my education here that I will continue to gain things I still have not yet obtained.

Stephanie

From the 2.5 years I've attended UST, I have been presented with multiple opportunities and have learned a great amount both educationally and about myself. Especially in the business program, I have been able to get the help and tips I need in preparing for my future career and need-to-knows for the real world. I have been able to meet individually with counelors and professors to get the one-on-one attention to receive answers to my questions about current issues and the future. It has been valuable to attend this university because I have been involved in and been able to experience the ups and downs of life and to find ways to appropriately deal with them. I feel like these experiences will help greatly in my adventure into the real world. Along with academics, I have met the most amazing people and will leave this university with life-long friends.

Chris

Employment credentials that open up a pathway to application to employment that only accepts application from persons with the degree required. Prepared with credentials necessary to obatin a license to practice in a respected profession. Educationally prepared to advance skills through work traiinng and graduate studies. Provides a connectivity to others in the community who might be from the same college. Increased connectivity through educational events, career-services, wrokshops, employment referrals and other sense of belonging to an individualized program of study working with other like monded individuals.

Kayla

Oh boy, this is a very big question for me, as I have grown in many ways since I have started attending the University of St. Thomas. I feel I have learned a lot about not only factual subject matter, but how exactly everything relates to the real world. I have also learned quite a bit about myself and what it is I have to do to be successful. Going to college doesn't only bring you academic experiences, however. I have found new interests in music, people, activities, etc. The college experience has made me much more well-rounded, and I find myself branching out and exploring the world around me much more than I ever thought I was capable. Going to college is not only important for having a successful career someday--it's important for becoming the best person you can be.

Manal

What I have gotten out of my college experience is that I have a newly-found confidence when it comes to my path and aspirations in life. Being at St. Thomas made me realize that I am exactly the school I need to be at.

Karen

To most college-age students, I'm an old lady. I came back to school because I had always regretted not finishing my degree. Laid off after working twenty-six years for an insurance company, I felt like I'd lost my identity, not to mention my family's primary source of income. Going to college has been valuable because my education is something that no one can take away, even in difficult times. It's given me experiences and allowed me to meet people that I will never forget. It's given me a goal; one I am determined to achieve. I have learned so much and I am incredibly impressed with the young people around me who work so hard to reach their goals. I know that I'm lucky to have this second chance; not everyone is so fortunate. My message to students everywhere: all of life is for learning, but now is the time for college.

Ashley

I got a life out of my college experience. I grew up in a how where we didn't have much and no one expected much, and once I had my daughter I went back to school to prove I can do somethign amazing despite the odds. I now am so close to graduating, and this whole time I learned that anyone can do anything, that this school and the people in it are just like me, fighting against the odds, to do something great. This campus this school, makes everything possible for every person who walks in through the doors. I will remember CSI forever.

Joe

I have received a world class education as well as had the ability to see the world through a different scope. I have learned how to take proper initiative when doing homework as well as developed better study habits. I have made life long friends here.

Amal

This is my first semester at the University St. Thomas and it started off rocky but I feel content now. It was a little intimidating and nerve raking entering a new school at first. However, by the second week of school I met two incredible people that are still my very close friends. They made me feel more at ease and showed me the ropes. They even encouraged me to study abroad for j-term to Ghana. You can say that they brought out the outgoing, enthusiastic, bubbly personality I kept inside from these new people. So with my first semester I’ve made great friends, received good grades and matured in a sense. I love this school because professors actually care about the student’s well being and their education. The positive spirit running throughout this loving community promotes an environment of stability, security and knowledge.

BreAnna

I have had the opportunity to network with a group of individuals who are like-minded. They are people who share the same values and commitment to success as I do. I am so pleased to have the opportunity to be a part of such a valuable institution. Saint Thomas is not just a college it is a marriage, one between commitment and success, today and tomorrow.

Corey

The biggest thing anyone learns in their college experience in my opionion is dependence. More specifically, dependence on themselves. I have learned to take more responsibility for myself. While away at college you don't have your parents there to remind you to get your work done on time, nor is anyone there to remind you of that really. The professors care about you but, they also believe that as a college student you should have enough responsibility to care about your grades, schoolwork, and be able to accomplish these tasks on your own. It has been valuable for me to attend college because I've learned more about being independant and on my own. I am much more confident in my ability to rely on myself to take care of whatever task may lie in front of me. Beyond learning to be more indenpendant, it has been valuable for me to attend college in order to gain the knowledge that is going to stay with me (hopefully) and carry me into a profession which I can be sucessful in. College is a time of change and growth, not taking either of these seriously, would be a mistake for anyone.

Ellen

My college experience so far has been great. It took a lot of time for me to become comfortable with the idea of college and also about living on campus. It's been hard living away from home, but it has definitely been beneficial. The classes at first were very intimidating, but once I got a schedule down and become more comfortable, things seemed much more manageable. Also, joining the Rowing Club at school has helped me to make new friends and meet more people. Next semester I am thinking about joining a few more organization. I love to be involved on campus because it makes it seem more like this is the place for me. College is such a great opportunity in life where we are able to make new friends, learn to be independent and find who we are and where we belong in this world.

Annie

I have made life long friendships and recieved an amazing education. I know all of my professors on a personal level and have met numerous individuals to network with. Receieving a liberal education has allowed me to learn much more than I would have at a public college. All of my professors are doctors in their fields or currently working in their specific fields, so I am able to learn much more. The University of St. Thomas is an expensive school to go to, however it is an investment for my future and something I would definitely do over again if I had to.

Tiffany

I have attended college off and on since I graduated high school in 2002. Paying for your tuition yourself and out-of-pocket isn't so easy. During these past few years, I have learned to take pride in myself , my education, as well as the things I have accomplished during my years attending college. I am completely independent, work full-time, and go to school full-time. My goal is get my Master's Deggree in Counseling or School Psychology and work with teens, possibly in a school or some other type of setting. Doing this kind of work will be tough, but it will allow me to make a positive difference in the world and hopefully in the lives of those I work with. People are my passion and nothing brings me greater joy than helping someone out and making a difference in someone's life. Attending college has been extremely valuable to me because it's helping me grow as a person as well as helping me become well equipped to enter the field of Psychology. It's also been valuable because it's allowing me to reach my goal and also my dream.

Elizabeth

I've learned a lot about my major in the short time I've been at St. Thomas. The information I have learned has been invaluable to me because it has shown me that I'm making the right decision by attending St. Thomas and majoring in Biology; it has shown me that I will be successful in the future if I stick with what I'm doing right now. In addition, I've met some really devoted, inspiring professors who have truly heped me to be passionate about my field of study. It's a great experience to be surrounded by a faculty that really loves what they do, and that loves getting the students involved as well. Outside the academics of St. Thomas, I've met such great students that I connect with on so many levels. I love spending time with my classmates, whether we're out and about, or just studying. Stepping outside my comfort zone and meeting these new people has helped me to come out of my shell and become the person I want to be. I've grown in so many ways since attending St. Thomas; it's been a truly great experience.

Crystal

As a home childcare provider, I am the hand that rocks the cradle. Every decision I make, directly effects the way a child may see the world. I do not take this responsibility lightly and understand the importance of an education. Since attending classes, I have already seen a huge difference in my own behavior and the responses of those around me. This is the best time in my life to complete my degree because it will send a powerful message to my own children that college is not only important but that it can change lives. I am a very self motivating person who is always looking for a challenge. I offer quality childcare at a reduced rate for those who are unable to afford the full cost of daycare. By continuing my education, I can provide a higher level of care for all of those in my home. My children are twelve and thirteen and I am setting a great example for the two of them. They see me studying at night and often help quiz me on the material. College has brought my family closer .

James

My college experience has helped me to realize who I am and what I am capable of in life. It has taught me valuable lessons and opened my eyes to the real world and what kind of skills were needed to "survive". Not only have I learned oodles of information but I have also discovered on what I want to become once I have graduated. College has taught me many things but it has also done much for me as well as far as character development and maturity. Without college I would not be the same man as I am today. I am very eager to continue my college education and curious as to how it will further influence my development as a human being in the future.

Shelby

My college experience so far has made me realize I can do anything if I set my mind to it. Nothing is impossible and trying is the best thing to do. There are so many opportunities in life and on campus that will help better your future and broaden your horizons in life. I have learned a lot about myself through this college experience and have come to realize I am capable of nearly anything. It has been valuable to attend this school because it challenges me to work hard and open my mind to new things.

Renee

In the past year and a half here at the University of St. Thomas I have made lifelong friends, experienced things I would have never imagined, and started my journey to becoming a “real adult”. These are the reasons I am satisfied with my college experience and believe it has been a value for me to attend school here. I currently live with four other girls directly across the street from campus. This experience of living on my own and being able to share it with people who I have created extremely strong bonds with has positively enhanced my college experience. During my freshman year I auditioned for role in an improvisational theatre group. “Comedy Sportz University League” was one of the most amazing experiences St. Thomas has been able to give me. I learned how to think on my toes, laugh so hard I couldn’t breathe and meet people who I wouldn’t run into during my everyday routine. Finally, with the incredibly large network of alumni, I have already been interning at an accounting firm for a year. This experience has given me security that I will be able to land a job immediately after I graduate.

Hannah

I think that going to college has given me a sense of duty toward other people. This past semester I had the opportunity to complete a service learning course where I worked with people living with HIV/AIDS. It made me realize just how privileged I am and really made me think of structures that are in place that perpetuate poverty, HIV/AIDS infection, crime, violence, and other things of that nature. This knowledge has only solidified my desire to study Theology- this is just one medium where we can tap into the population and go, "Hey, something is wrong with this." Too often people lay the blame on the individuals for being infected with HIV/AIDS, but what everyone needs to realize is that all too often these people were at a disadvantage from the start. College has been valuable to attend not only from what I learned in my service learning course, but just because I have grown in knowledge in general. I have learned to manage my time better, gained knowledge in several different mediums; not only my core courses by my generals also. Ultimately, college has made me want to go into the field of service.

Jessica

I have already learned so many new things from just one sememster in college, it's amazing. After taking a few courses, I know for sure that I'm heading in the right direction with Biology. I've met so many amazing new friends, and so many amazing new professors. At first I was bummed I had to take a theology class to graduate, but this is actually one of my more interesting classess besides biology or chemistry. Having to take other classes is giving me a well-rounded education and experiences that are personal to me. Having all of these new experiences makes it valuble to me, because I know that if I wouldn't have gone off to school, I never would have.

Ben

My college experience has given me the opportunity to better myself through effective learning in an environment suited to assist in the development of persons as a whole. Here, I have begun to discover what it means to be a human being. Through the challenges of personal interactions with those I encounter every day and the constant challenge to discover the world around me I have begun to discover who I am, what I stand for, and what I want to live for. I have learned much about the world, but most of all, I have learned about myself.

Katie

At Carrington College (formly Apollo College) if you do not attend school you do not get the hands on learning experience and you quickly fall behind. I have missed no more than two days in the past five months and I have earned a 4.0 GPA. I love going to school and learning about new discoveries within the medical field. Carrington College is a very fast paced school . I was worried at first but once I got the hang of it I would not trade it for anything! I love going to school everyday! I have never done so well in school in my entire life! I have finally found something that I love to do and love to learn about!