University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Top Questions

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

Cara

I would let myself know that college is different from high school. It's one of the first steps young adults take in becoming independent, and that college is a very good tool for self discovery. Everyone goes through a lot of changes when they go to college, they grow up and figure out the important things in life, or even figure out what interests us most. I would also let myself know that this is a time that we are trying to figure ourselves out and its okay to be different. I'd want to make sure I knew that just because the majority of people do one thing, doesn't always make it right. I'd tell myself to never silence my voice, or fall into the crowd just because I'm afraid to stand out.

Kailey

I would tell myself I made great decisions about my undergraduate degree. I made the decision to live at home and go to a community college. While at the community college I was able to receive my Associate's Degree and that degree was a huge stepping stone for me. After receiving that degree, I was accepted into another institution to work on completeing my Bachelor degree. I took all the right steps to completing my goal of my degree and I am proud of the college career and path I took. However, I might to tell myself to study a bit harder. Applying myself just a bit more might have raised by GPA from a B to a B+.

Mochae

The advice I would give to myself is to take more initiative on how I was going to pay for college. I never anticipated it being this stressful to try and manage my finances while keeping up in school. If i could have planned out my finances before It would take a great load off my shoulders. I could have applied for scholorships and grants and been way better off now. Also, I would have been more prepared for my placement tests. Not being prepared put me in a low math class when really I could handle much more difficult math. Doing these two things would have made my college experience much more enjoyable.

Brandon

The most important advice is to find what you love doing and make it your carrier, or else you will regret the decisions there after. That begin said also practice your short comings to seek a well balanced structure. Time is a fickle friend so make the best with what you’re given.

Alexandria

The best advide that I would give myself is to not room with a friend from high school. I ended up losing that friendship all together. It is much harder living with someone you know, especially your first year of college. It restricts you from going out and meeting new people without the other. I felt that I needed to go places with her all the time, and she felt the same way about me. As time went on, we began to annoy each other but did not talk about it. It made it difficult for me to be in the room with her, and I would go to the study room alone. My first year I had a lot of free time, and I did not spend much of it with her. So, don't room with a friend for your first year of college. Also, I recommend getting a job. It's another way to meet people, make money, and have fun. So even if you do room with a friend, having a job would create some space between you two. That will be needed. College should be fun. You shouldn't feel disrespected by your roommate.

Halie

Life is always different when looking back. When I look back to my senior year in highschool, I wish I had known things then that I know now. The most important thing I wish I could say to myself is to dedicate more of my time to my passion; art. Since I was new to the art scene, I didnt know much about the surrounding world of art. I also didn't like to research other artist or try to mediums. Without realizing it, I allowed my close-mindedness to stunt my growth as a student and an artist. This then became a setback since some things were common knowledge for the art students that surrounded me in college. So once I got to art school, I had to spend longer hours studying rather than spending that extra time on practicing and furthering my hands on skills. Looking back now, there is much I could change. But the fact is that those experience have shaped me into the person that I am today and I have learned many life lessons from those experience. So I wouldn't change a thing, even if i had a chance to.

Micah

I would tell myself "Micah, this University is yours for the taking but no one is going to give anything to you. When you get there don't be scared, be social and confident. Don't be afraid to ask questions and demand answers from advisors and counselors even if you must remind them that it is there job to do so. Never underestimate the classes you are taking, work hard, work in the library for hours and never, never give up. As far as finances go, fill out your fafsa early and apply for as many scholarships as you can because going to college is putting a lot of financial pressure on mom and dad. Lastly, find your rhythm; get up early, shower drink your coffee and GO TO CLASS, work out, make friends and spend time with them. Remember who you are, where you come from and what you've been through and nothing, absolutely nothing can stop you from achieving this goal."

Haley

If I could go back in time and give myself advice it would all be centered around my main goal, becoming a Veterinarian. I would tell myself to get a job as a Veterinary assistant because I had no idea clinics would hire students without a degree. I would also tell myself to take the GRE since a majority of the GRE consists of things I learned in high school. I would then tell myself to look into programs such as vet fast which is where you apply after high school to vet school which is a quicker way to become a Veterinarian. Lastly, I would tell myself to go to a closer and cheaper school , and to look into scholarships because schools are not interested in helping you find any and you must find them yourself!

Justin

Knowing what I know now, if I was able to go back in time and talk to the high school senior version of myself. I would definitely say two things. I would first of all tell myself to become more involved in the community. Not so much my community, but other communities. I say so because often times people are extremely scared to step outside of the box. You have people that have lived somewhere for years and never even been a mile outside of their neighborhood; that's absurd! We often judge others and certain areas not knowing the full story behind them. Never did I think I'd be going to school on the eastside of Milwaukee, but I love it. I eventually had to leave my predispositions in the past and see things through my own eyes. I would also tell myself to get more used to studying. My first semester I struggled a bit because I was always so used to getting good grades without really having to study. But in college, classes aren't everyday so you have to train even harder outside of the classroom. My high school self would appreciate my advice.

Kayla

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior there are several bits of advice I would give myself. I would tell myself how important it is to recieve good grades in high school to open up more oppurtunities for scholarships to help with the expense of college. I would also encourage myself to participate in more student activities to help build character and gain experiences to enhance my overall self. I would instill in myself the thought that a college degree is an essentail in life these days with the competitveness of every career. The last thing I would tell myself before I am deploed back to current time is to make sure I am thankful for those who helped me finance college and make my dreams of achieving a higher education a reality.

kate

If I could go back to my highschool self, I would talk about studying and reading habits as well as social scenes. I would state the many responsabilities and stresses of school that could be eased by learning good study habits and the importances of reading. Staying up with current events and knowing historical importance of dates, years, or places. I would also tell my highschool self that it is okay to go against the grain. There are plenty of groups and people on campus and by going out there participating in activities creates more opportunities to meet new people. Volunteering has a double bonus of meeting new people and gaining expereince, which also looks good on record. My highschool self would have benefitied from this advice, which at the time was not my style. Studying and reading wasn't my favorite and I usually hung out with the people I was most cofortable with.

Andrew

Advice that I would give myself is to stay in contact with advisors and put yourself in situations to meet new people.. I would say this because all the advisors were extremely helpful with making the right choices for classes and majors. I would say to put yourself into situations to meet new people because friendships in college can last a lifetime and the more friends you have, the more connections you can have when pursuing your goals. These friendships will also allow you to have the best time while at college, even when things are not going as well.

Khue

For my college experience it has been great. I have meet so many great people who have helped with my first year of college. It's valuable to attend this college because the location is great and the people/service.

Shawna

My college experience so far has been very different from the one that I had before. It was all new to me when I first moved down to Milwaukee, Wisconsin because it was a bigger city and I was there all on my own. I live in the dorms as a freshman, and was given a wonderful roommate whom is Asian, which has been a lot of fun because we have become pretty close friends so far. There are a lot of interesting people that I am meeting that makes my college experience better, because if I didn't attend the University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee I would have never met all the amazing people that I have met. I've gotten to understand how precious money is when it comes to trying to pay tuition. It has also been interesting to take any class that you would like to take, and actually take classes that you are interested in learning. College is just one of those things that people should value because not everybody attends college because of money or other isssues, but it has just been a great experience for me overall.

Cassie

Even though my college experience has just begun, I began studying at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in the Fall of 2010, I have already gotten a lot of valuable knowledge while attending for this short period of time. While attending college I have learned how to better organize and use my time wisely. I have also learned new study techniques and ways to cope with stress. Before attending school in Milwaukee, WI , I lived in a small town with not much diversity. After living in Milwaukee, I am learning what it is like to live in a more diverse city and the aspect of living in a bigger city has provided me with many new opportunities for volunteering in the community. In addition, I have made many new connections and relationships with friends and people who could help me succeed in my future goals. It is wonderful to make new friends and have the opportunity to find people who share your interests and can open you up to new opportunities and ideas.

Jessica

After my first semester of college I feel good about myself, I feel as if I am finally doing something I want and that I am working towards a futur that will bring me a lot of happiness and satisfaction. All my teachers have been great and every class I have attended, be it yoga, math or mythology, I have left feeling like i have gotten something out of it that will be a benifit for my future. I feel like a better, smarter, more well rounded person by going to UWM and I am proud to be a part of such a great school.

Katie

What I consider to be my most valuable college experience is, as young adults we are expected to do everything on our own. Mom and Dad aren't there to hold our hands and guide the way anymore, we must crusade ahead without assistance and hope we do our best with the resources provided (our brains). I've learned that everyone makes mistakes, but it's how we handle those mistakes that really makes the difference.

Gabriel

I learned that having a degree, no matter in what particular field, is very important. The real world has limited job listing in the miscellaneous section... Do well because you grades not only effect your potential but your self worth as well...

Alex

What I gained from college so far is probablly the most important lesson of my life. Its something that cannot be taught. That thing would have to be good work ethic. Even if your are the brightest person in the world if you lack work ethic you are basically a light bulb without power. Ive learned that hard work, even if you are not the brightest or even think you are, is neccassary to be prodcutive.

James

Applying for colleges can be very stressful, waiting for the acceptance letter can be even more nerve bending. I choose UWM over other colleges because i was attracted to its location. The city life has always attracted me, and after attending UWM I can safely say that the city life has been all i imagined it to be which is fun. UWM is more then just a great time its an experience that makes you who you are and helps make you who you want to be whatever that is. UWM is like a supportive friend that always got your back. there are so many different clubs and organizations to get involved with. I have made many unforgettable memories since coming to UWM its safe to say that UWM is life changing.

Madeline

Throughout my college experience I have been exposed to several cultures, ethnicities, and view points different than mine. The knowledge gained from my classes combined with this diversity of human expereience has allowed me to grow in my understanding of life and spirituality. However, I feel I was only able to benefit so grossly from this expereince because I was open to developing my personality. I believe college can be valuable for anyone, both for the intellect and personal growth, as long as he or she maintains an open mind and determination to succeed. With my new outlook, I feel more prepared to join the job market after graduation and launch myself into new situations and meeting new people.

Cuauhtemoc

The most impacting aspect of the college i attend is the living experience in the resident halls. i felt that the people that work in the resident halls truly want you to be comfortable and are always there to help. Also i think that the faculty for the most part have your best interests in mind and do what they can to help you succeed . I think the most influential part of my college experience is the fact that i am living on my own and learning from the mistakes that i've made to build up my knowledge of living life in this enviroment.

Jennifer

In 2010, I returned to school after earning my associates degree in 2005. There are several reasons that I took a break from school including the fact that I had been attending school for 15 years without stop. I felt accomplished with my associates degree until I joined the corporate work force. I learned quickly what little value my hard-earned degree actually held. I came back to school and my first semester has been the best experience, to my surprise. I have learned so much more than just academics at Aurora University. I have learned about other people, cultures, sports, and religions. It is so different and intriguing to learn about my future career as a social worker first hand from my professors. I have encountered peers who have the same career goals as I do with opposite family structures, living environments, religions, and beliefs. Although classes are important I believe the entire college experience is equally important.

Kelly

Throughout my year and a half at UW-Milwaukee, I have gained a newfound respect for all types of individuals, as a lot of the city experiences were new to me (hailing from a very small hometown). I've developed a diverse education, well-rounded with critical thinking, arts, and classroom debate. The education I received awoke in me an unrivaled drive for excellence that I didn't have in high school and also skills for life, honed by passionate educators and creative fellow students. The greatest value this university has brought to my life is a passion for my future. Before college, I had only vague dreams in mind. Now, after even such a short portion of my college career, I'm constantly evaluating my skills and desires in an ongoing effort to shape a brilliant future out of every opportunity I can find.

Joshua

So far through the little time that I have had the opportunity to spend at my college, I have received many benefits. The first being many opportunities to learn new things, both in and out of the classroom, and the opportunity to become friends with thousands of different people. Another experience my school has presented is the access to infinite learning sources and work opportunities. The final experience that my college has presented is the understanding and always-listening student body, staff, and community, is a huge part in creating new friends, resolving situations, and expanding your mind as well as understanding what a person is going through.

Christopher

My college experience at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee has been most valuable to me so far through the connections I have made to other people and the comfort I feel with my setting. Previously a philosophy major and currently pursuing my computer science degree, I have come to realize the variety as well as the similarity among students. While I believe that I could have learned the very same material in similar courses at other universities, I am certain that I could not have made the same personal connections in the same ways. To anyone deciding between a few top choices for school, I would offer this advice: visit during the semester and imagine yourself interacting with students in the same way you see them interacting. Choose the school which seems like the most comfortable environment, because comfort can entirely shape the learning experience.

Devin

So far I've received my own independance. Which can be difficult to manage at times. I have made some friends of a lifetime. I have learned organization skills, Financial independce, self discipline and consequences of slacking. my eyes were opened to my family as well. Sometimes it's so easy to take them for granted. As of yet college has been a rewarding experience.

Alicia

College isn't easy. Making descisions, finishing homework, and finding time to have a life is a struggle. We all know that employers look for people with a degree, but it's also rewarding to know you've completed a challenge.

Cassandra

The first two months that I have been in college have inquired the most educational, self-changing, culture shocking and best experiences in my life. I have learned to become independant, outgoing and self-relient. I have met new people and became more of my own person. I have also inquired skills to allow me to succeed in college such as: For every credit is one hour of studying. Every teacher or professor is different and "ratemyprofessor.com" is a HUGE help when looking for classes for the next semester. I have learned the value of sleep. The study groups on campus are for "smart people". Last but not least, I have learned that the professors unfortunately dont care enough to remember your name in most cases, so dont try too hard to get their attention with anything but your fantastic work.

Joseph

I have not only received the education that I need to continue on to a successfull medical career but I have also met many great people on the way. The experiences that I have had and the people that I have met make the who thing worth it in my opinion. I would not change anything if I had an opportunity to go back.

Amber

I've learned responsibility and self worth through my college experience. Growing up, I was care-free with my money until I was almost out, and would be careful until my next paycheck. I would skip high school classes as I pleased and was lucky that I had the credits to graduate. And now I'm learning to budget my money to pay for the important things I need, gas money, groceries, school books, and of course I've learned to budget my time, between work and school, and putting a social life as a last priority. You never think the world could be so tough and complicated until you reach college. I have learned and am still learning the art of Health Care as well as the art of budgeting, ethics, and of course, growing up.

Nicholas

It has been valuable to attend college for me to get exposed to different ideas, experiences and diverse populations than where I grew up. It has allowed me to learn how to budget my time between school, work and social activities, as well as learning how to live away from home and doing my own laundry and cooking.

Kiarra

It has been valuable to attend college because you meet people from different backgrounds, religions, and social classes, and begin to interact with them on a daily basis.

Tyesha

I have developed purpose. I know exactly what I want to do and where I want to be in five years. I have clear direction because I have professors who encourage creativity and embracing my strong points. It is also been great in developing social skills that will carry me far beyond just the career I am choosing. I will be able to take what I learn and implement those processes and skills into my everyday life. I am increasingly inspired with each passing term to do my very best and one day comeback and represent along with the accomplished alumni of a great university.

Nicole

My college experience has provided me with a unique educational opportunity to express myself artistically and to strive to be the best that I can be. Also, I have enjoyed the city night life & fun times that the college students love to participate in.

Dela

Living in college showed me the new world around me and its quite interesting. I got to meet new people, interact with them and grow. In class i enjoyed the fact that we were treated as adults and i really enjoyed lecture because it gave you the option of learning at your own acelerated rate.

Dahlia

My first experience of the 2 year college in the United States seemed redundant. After graduating from a 2 year college in my home country and moving to the United States to further my education, the 2 year college did not accept any of my credits, therefore I was scheduled to retake all the basic classes again. To my surprise, I really enjoyed and learned new techniques of learning from the American stand point. I then began to open myself to bigger and better things. After taking all my prerequisite classes, I began to enroll in classes that related to my major. I've learnt many different skills and techniques; I've also had to the experience of using my skills in real world situtations. I am grateful for all my mentors and professors who encouraged and guided me to accomplish my goals while attending that institute. I would never trade those 2 years of experience for nothing in the world. Thanks again!

Brittany

A lot of education. And something I could use to help me become a better person.

Kayleen

I have learned not to procrastinate and that I need to focus on important things in life instead of worry about the minute details that are time consuming and unnecessary. Teachers care about what you are learning and what you can show them you've learned, and they want to see you making progress, not just give you a grade.

Jordana

Throughout my college experience I have realized diversity is not only a good thing, but a great thing. I grew up in a town of 1,100 people in rural Wisconsin. The city of Milwaukee was a complete culture shocked compared to where I had grown up. I didn't realize until I enrolled at Milwaukee I was ignorant to not only people but experiences. The typical restauraunts in my town were attached to bars which only served burgers and fries, coming to Milwaukee I experienced sushi, thai cuisine, and hibachi grills. Also the new people I met along with the new experiences helpd me to become a more well rounded person. At college I not only received an education but a new outlook on the knowledge experiences can give you.

Chuk

Through my stay in college I have developed a maturity and deeper understanding of what life is all about. Gone is the childish ideology and mindset of high school in my life. The beauty of college and its higher learning is in the fact that only what you put in, is what you will get out. I have gotten a fresh mentality and outlook on life. College experience is difficult to gauge in terms of value because its effects and results are long reaching and beneficial. I believe that its value can only be measured through the hard work and application put into your work.

Kimberly

What I?ve gotten from my college experience is the confidence and motivation that I?ll need to make a good life for not only myself but others in the future. I feel I've learned so much not only about the material but about myself since I have begun attending school. Since attending school I feel I?ve really come out of my shell and become the person that I?m meant to be. I used to be shy and quiet and since attending school I feel that I have now become a better leader and friend. My school has also given me the opportunity to lend out a hand and volunteer. My school had given me so much and I know that by the time I graduate I?ll be ready to be an amazing nurse, and because of them I?ll be able to go out and help others out there that need help. Going to college has done nothing but better who I am as a person and I have no doubt that my university would do that for anybody else who attended it which is why I feel that a college education is so valuable.

DEZNE

What I have gotten out of my college experience is an atmosphere of community learning where I as an undergraduate student can learn in a capacity that is comprehensive, stimulating, challenging academically, and collaborative in the small classroom with a variety of diverse students that resignate from all kinds of backgrounds, cultures, and language. In the classroom environment of my educational institution, it is comprehensive in that I the student takes the theories, concepts, and imperatives of each field subject I learn that is complex in its entirety and apply it in basic applications to my own understanding and the understanding of my fellow classmates. My learning experience is stimulating in that I as the student has the chance to voice my comments, objections, thoughts, judgments, and feelings about a term, concept, or theory in a subject I agree or disagree to or have no knowledge about. My school environment is academically challenging in that I as a student is prompted and encouraged to excel and perform cognitively beyond my own educational expectations. The environment has been collaborative because I have been willing to participate in group activities. My college experience has been valuable in completing internship fieldwork.

Adrianna

So far I have valued that college is helping me become a independent adult. Its helping me feel I can live on my own and be in control responsibly of my freedom.

Orlando

I have seen what the college life is all about. I have met very interesting people, I have learned from the best in the field. I have heard other opinions and other points of views. I have interacted with multiple different individuals and learned about other cultures and backgrounds. I have made a few friends and important contacts that will help me advance in my career. I have exposed myself to a world of knowledge and wisdom that can only be obtained by listing with an open mind. Overall I feel prepared and smart, I feel like I am capable of making educated choices about life, politics, work, etc.

larry

What i have gotten out of my college experience the most is that no matter where a person comes from,or what has happened in his or her lives ,it is never a reason to give up on your goals,or dreams of becoming what you want to be in life. Attending a small career college like i do ,you find people of all color,ages,and different backgrounds that are trying to make a better life for their selves as well as their families.Ive learned that goals or dreams ,no matter how far in life you are ,can always be fulfilled with the right amount of motivation,and desire to do so. I believe that being able to attend my college on campus has been significant to my education by experiencing the comrodary of my fellow class mates as well as the faculty at Indiana Business College. It is a experience that i recommend to anyone who is debating whether to go on or off campus,and something that i will always remember for as long as i live.

Paige

What I've gotten out of college experience is more responsibility and a bigger chance to help change myself into an adult. It may be fustrating, but I know it will help me out in the future. It's valuable because it will affect my future completely, like others who have been to college. I have met more people and made new friends who help me, and I have some teachers as friends who are kind and helpful. Without college and any of the people to help me along the way, I would be completely stumped and confused about what to do next. Thanks to my family, teachers, and friends I have met in this college, and I hope to spend my next three years after this with them. I hope to meet more people that I can help. When I go on in my college life, I will look at the freshman and try helping them, while thinking to myself. That was me.

Christi

The moment I stepped on to UW-Milwaukee's campus I fell in love. The diversity introduced me to a whole new world considering I grew up in a small country town, so this was a good experience. Everyone I've met has been friendly, and very determined, and this always helps me to push along with my work and not give up. Everyday is a new adventure, and I am always learning something, especially since most the people I know are of a different diversity and have a different idea of what they want to do with their lives. It is a great experience being here and I wouldn't take back a single day.

Avery

THe first thing that I've learned from college is that it's a lot different from high school. Nobody is there to hold your hand. It's up to you and it's about making choices. You have the choice to go to class or not. The teacher wont ask you over and over if you have your homework. It should be done or it's not getting collected. It also moves at a faster pace. If you do miss class you are missing a big part of it. It's in your best interest to be there if you want to pass the class.

Dana

If I were able to go back in time, I would have a lot of useful advice to tell myself as a high school senior. First of all I would tell my self not to worry about the future, and to just take one step at a time. With the right preparations everything will work out, and there is no need to stress over it. I would advise myself to do a lot of research about the colleges that I was considering. When deciding on a university one should visit the school to make sure that the environment is one you want to live in, one must consider the location, and lastly the opportunities the school offers. You don?t want to end up going to a school that has nothing to offer you. College is a big adjustment, but is you set goals and stay focused everything will work out in the end.