University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Top Questions

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a highschool senior, the main advice I would give myself is: to enjoy my senior year but don't lose sight of the goals you want to accomplish in life. Senior year is not meant to be a total slack off year and I would tell myself to enjoy it but to not forget what my responsibilities are. I would also tell myself to never give up. Even when the world is crashing down around you and seems like everyone hates you, don't ever give up. If you truly put your mind to it, you can accomplish anything. I know that my high school self would be skeptical but I would push the fact that hard work and hope are the keys to a successful future. Finally I would tell myself that I need to always believe in myself because if I believe in myself and continue to be a hardworker I can accomplish anything.

I would tell myself to realize that the first couple of weeks are going to be the hardest because that's how long it will take to get used to not seeing your family everyday. I would tell myself to keep an open mind about a lot of things, especially about the people I'm going to meet because they all have different backgrounds and they're not the same as the friends I made in High School. I would tell myself to get more involved with social and volunteer activities right away because that will be the most likely source of my best friendships at school. The biggest point I would want to get across to myself is that I shouldn't get so stressed about the academic portion of going to school because it will seem very similar to high school, just try to be more active in social activities.

Leaving my home and entering college life was a complete culture shock. I no longer had my mother doing my laundry, cooking healthy home-cooked meals, or reminding me to be on time for my classes and events. I am now completely independent and having to rely on myself in order to stay on top of my health and my studies. A healthy lifestyle is vital for my school life because it allows me to function properly on day-to-day tasks. Eating, sleeping, and exercising are the key to a healthy lifestyle. Eating a well balanced meal will give me the energy to continue working hard during the day. Proper rest before a long and stressful day at school will give me an extra boost of alertness to stay focused in class. And continuing my exercise will relax and lower my stress level as well as maintaining a fit and healthy lifestyle. All this can be accomplished by simply organizing my time and making schedules in order to remind me of my top priorities which includes all school related work. And I must also not forget to make good friendships along the way to better my communication skills.

I would go back to myself and talk to myself about what career options that I wouldlike to persue. I tell myseld to look at my different options and figure out which option had a fair paying job and if it was something that I could do or the rest of my life. I would tell myself to figure out which optio I wanted andthen look for classes in high scool that will improve my chances in college and then also find a college that has a high graduation rate for the major that I would be enrolling in. I would also tell myself to find a school that aslo has a high employment rate for graduating students in the field that I choose to go into.

Shannon, don't worry so much about college, you will get along great with a random roommate and the dorm that you ended in that you think is not cool is the dorm in which you will meet your best friends. Don't stress about deciding a major because you are going to change it. Not everyone has their life planned out before college. You change so much in college that the person you are now is different from the person you will become. Spend time with your family because when you go to college, they won't be there all the time for you. You don't have to worry what others think of you. Be yourself and let your true self-shine instead of conforming to others. Get involved in organizations right away so you get connected with a good group of friends. Start applying for scholarships now because once college starts, you will have less time to apply much needed aid. All in all, trust that your college experience will be the most rewarding, amazing and best experience thus far. You will learn many life lessons and see yourself grow and change in ways unimaginable.

Hey there! You?ve got a lot of changes coming up. It won?t be easy, but it will be good. So get ready, get excited, and remember this: Firstly, don?t worry; it won?t help. College brings new culture, new people, new ideas, and new values. You will have to remember who you are and trust yourself in order to deal with them. BUT, don?t hide from the changes. Take advantage of every opportunity and get involved. Staying separated will just alienate you. When it seems hard, be stubborn. It?s up to you, girl. Secondly, don?t get caught up in competition. It doesn?t matter who has the highest grade or went to the best prep school. You have a purpose: you?re at college because you want to get a good education in order to give back to the world. Stay directed and love it! Finally, I know you believe that you need to live for yourself or it isn?t worth living. That?s true, but it doesn?t mean you shouldn?t engage human dialogue. The world is more diverse than you can comprehend. Open your mind and enjoy. Love, Me

Knowing what I know now about college life, the most useful advice I could give myself as a high school senior is to put my studies first. There are many people in college who are just not as serious as I am about my grades and how well I do in class. In many situations, the reason why student go out so much is not because studying always comes very easy to them and they have alot of free time, but because they would rather spend their time partying or taking part in alternate activieties. If I want to be successful, I must take responsibility for myself, and take it upon my self to do what is in my own best intrest. To do this i would suggest making myself a weekly schedual, filled with daily goals. By doing this, at the end of the week I will have acomplished everything I need to without stressing myself out thinking about my duties all at once.

If I were able to go back to my high school self I would definitely influence some changes in my future. I would explain that it is best to follow my heart and not make school and life choices based on what the people around me think I should do. I studied in France for a semester and that helped me realize that I needed to create my own future and not let it be led by the people around me. It's your future and no one else's! Have adventures and do things outside of your comfort zone. I was at an art school during high school. I had big dreams but the outer forces in my life kept pushing those dreams deep down and not letting them surface. I would go back and tell my self to dream big dreams and even if people laugh in your face you can do it! I know now that everything depends on me and that if I want something I can make it happen if I just allow myself to dream. Dreaming is a hard thing to do when you are not in control of your own future. Just dream.

While in my senior year, I wasn't too worried about going to school, but I wish I would've asked people more questions about college life and what to do if you're not sure what you want to do. I would tell myself that I should be in an environment that is comfortable and not worry about what other people say. I went to a different school last year because when I was a senior I was pressured into going to that school because of someone I thought was going to that school. I was very unhappy, but after switching to UW Stevens Point I am doing very well in school- I got a 4.0 last semester! I also would've told myself to focus more on my AP class so that I would've had to take fewer credits in college. I ended up having to take that class in college!

Choosing what college I wanted to attend was the hardest part of senior year. I would recommend that people get started early on the application process because the earlier you start, the better chance you have of getting into your highest preference. I would also reccomend visiting the schools you've been accepted to before choosing which one to enroll at because sometimes the brochures don't do justice for what the school is actually like. After I visited UW Stevens Point, I realized it was better than what I thought and was the deciding factor in me enrolling. As for the transition from high school to college life isn't as hard as some people make it seem either. I was worried, especially not knowing anyone, about my first day. Leaving the car was the hardest part, but the first week was crutial for me. Not because of getting homesick, but because I met almost all my new friends in the first week and got acquainted with my new environment. In conclusion, I would like to say that students shouldn't be worried, but rather embrace the new experience and make the best of it.

Knowing what I know now about college life, and making the transition, there is one major piece of advice I would give myself. The wisdom I would impart is to, as soon as you arrive, find the clubs, groups, or organizations that do things you enjoy, and have people with whom you can relate. Finding these people with similar interests and goals really just makes the transition much easier. The people you meet serve as your family, prevent loneliness, and overall, just keep you true to yourself, and can become some of your best lifelong friends. Although this advice is given often, I honestly believe that the best thing you can do while heading to college, is to find the people who love the things you love, and you will find yourself in a familiar atmosphere, therefore making the college transition much easier.

Dear High School Graduate, Congratulations! You made it through high school, believe me I know it was difficult. I?m writing this letter as a guide to help you to transition into college. I want to inform you that these next two years will be the hardest time of your life. No matter what happens, you must stay positive. You'll have money troubles, like everyone else, but just remember to save your money and only treat yourself every once in a while. You will also have family problems that will force you to move out on your own, but don't worry because it will give you life's experiences and you will learn from your mistakes. When you do fall off the horse, get back on and use some duct tape to prevent it the next time. Just remember to keep believing in yourself. Don?t lose sight of your dreams for the future. I am so proud of you. Everything will fall into place soon enough. By the time you catch up with me, you will have already found your knight in shining armor. I wish you the best of luck. Sincerely, Someone Who Cares

Knowing what I knew back in high school was to take school much more seriously. I have no strong regrets of my past. Two regards that would have better me post-graduation. First, was that I should have gotten a job during my junior/senior years to handle more responsibilities and manage work/study habits. And secondly, to have taken a stronger approach in my future degree in the Culinary Arts. Had I known this career path to be my true passion, I would have taken the initiative of joining other programs and associations that would help younger audiences interested in this field and ultimately provide scholarships to the cooking school I am currently attending; 'The Art Institute of Atlanta.'

After only one semester of college, I realized that it isn't nearly as difficult of a transition from high school to college life as I convinced myself it would be. I am still new to the college experience so I understand exactly how terrifying it can be for some people. I was really nervous about finding my way around campus and meeting new people too, but once you're there, you'll realize it's not so bad at all. However, there are a lot of changes such as finals, picking courses, dorm life, and study time that can be more challenging to get used to. You are expected to study two hours for every hour of class to keep up with the materials, so plan out a time each day where you can just sit down and review materials. You also have advisors for your major who help you pick courses you need and get you your final exam schedules, but most questions can be easily found on the school's webpage. Lastly, get involved in the dorm's floor activities to meet people who may be your friends for the rest of your life. Enjoy it!!

If I could go back in time to talk to myself as a high school senior, the only piece of advice I would give myself is to save money! I tutored elementary school students and also worked at a clothing store in the mall during my senior year of high school and saved up money from those two jobs but that was not enough. I did not have any other savings. I recieve financial aid (grants and loans) and am currently working at my campus cafeteria; my only worry is having to pay back my loans six months after I graduate. I wish I knew how important it is to save money for college. Living in a household with nine children is tough and I did not expect much financial help from my parents nor did I want them to help. In times today, it seems as though adolescents take everything for granted, they live at home and their parents pay for most of their needs but it is the opposite in college. Looking back, I wish I had started a savings account in high school and saved more money for college.

The plain and simple avice I would give myself is to make friends because they are the ones who help my get through the toughest part of every day. Making the transition from having friends to making new friends can be tough for some, but making friends is the best way to branch out.

I would tell myself not to change my original academic intentions, because following them will ultimately lead me to where I am today. I would not forewarn myself that I would transfer twice--it would probably scare the daylights out of me. I would encourage myself adamantly to not be as much of a recluse, because that is always easier, and social interaction is more rewarding. Finally, regarding to academics, I would tell myself that we are capable of anything a professor throws at us. I would tell myself to trust my judgment and complete assignments according to that that specific professor's preferences and requirements (however not sacrificing my creative ability). I would give this advice to myself and deliberately withhold many details, because there have been several lessons that cannot simply be described.

If I could go back in time and give myself advice, the most important things I would tell myself is to be organized and get college applications out by the new year. The reason I say this is so things are done early and u'd be on top of your education. One thing you cannot do is wait until the last minute if you want to get into a 4 year college. You should start thinking about college once you get to your senior year. Taking your SAT's early is a plus so that you have something to rely on if your grades aren't the best; and if you need to retake them you have enough time to send the new scores in by the college application deadline. Colleges like people who are prepared for new education. They see potintial in students that are eager to start their life after high school. Now that I have graduated, I understand that it is nothing like what I would be getting myself into in a college environment. Being prepared and organized is a plus and takes a huge burden off your shoulder when it's done promptly.

I have put much thought into giving my high school senior advice over the years. I would travel back in time to 1987! "Jody, you think YOU have it all planned out?" First, accept that you need support and guidance in planning for your education. Your guidance counselor is to do more than show you how to fill out your financial aid forms. Your parents do not have the experience with secondary education, the value or the financial responsibility; however, they will need to be involved in your future. There are teachers at this high school that can help you. Do not be afraid to ask for help. This is your future. It is very important to remember if you are not satisfied with how your plans are turning out, review, reflect, and renew your goals. Seek the support for your education goals. In any circumstance, do not lose hope in attending college because of financial circumstances. Keep your eyes on your goals. Keep true to yourself and believe in yourself! You are completing your education for you and the many you will work with and meet in the future! The future isn't so far away.

In seeing all that has transpired since my time in highschool I have realized that I could have done quite a few things differently in order to make the transition process smoother. The most obvious of which to myself is how truly important the types of people who you should make your freinds in the first few weeks of college are. Of course you should still be freindly and nice to everyone you meet; however if your newfound friends do not share the same academic goals as yourself then the following semester you may find yourself freindless once again since your first semester friends have all failed out on account of partying too hard. The temptation to go out drinking on weeknights must be avoided since the only thing that will come of it is a morning headache and increased difficulty in your studies. There will be plently of time to party in college, only of course if you properly balance the time spent studying, socalizing, and working effectively. This time managment was something I recieved a crash course in almost too late in my first semester after realizing the pathway I and my new freinds were headed down.

I would not tell myself to select another school. I love it at Stevens Point. I met my boyfriend here and I would not give him up for anything. However, I would tell myself to not let boys interfere with homework. I struggled my first semester in college because I spent too much time with my boyfriend instead of doing homework. I would also tell myself not to room with my best friend from high school. I missed out on a lot of the college experience such as moving in with a complete stranger and a lot of social activities. I also lost my best friend because we ended up fighting all the time. We grew apart and realized it too late. I can't help but wonder if we hadn't roomed together, would we still be best friends? College is a place to learn who you are, to meet new people and to have fun. I missed out on all of that. I would also tell myself to not forget what I truely loved, to learn. There are times when I loose sight of this. I have waited for college my whole life, I cant loose that now.

High school is hard emotionally and mentally. Everyone is striving to fit in. College is a whole new ball game. You can be who you want and you are given a great opportunity to find who you really are and who you want to be. College is the best time of your life. Unlike high school, you actually have to study and do the homework, but its not all bad. Group study sessions are fun and you actually can learn while having fun. In college you make friends that you will have for the rest of your life, so enjoy it. Don't let the dramas of high school problems blur your vision of the future. In college you learn so much about the world around you and what you can do to improve and embrace it. Giving up is not an option. Keep pushing through, because in the end, all the big right now things will not seem so big or so life changing. Live each day to its fullest and do not forget to have fun.

I would remind myself that I have time to complete all my goals bescause I am young and I have my whole life ahead of me. I would tell myself to be rational and to look at all possible angles before I become narrow minded about my options. I would emphasize the importance of applying for scholarships, grants, and financial aid early as well as becoming involed in as many groups and community service organizations I could find. I would stress the importance of broadening my social circle but not forgetting to keep my current friendships intact. I would also advise myself to look into the availability of employment within the city where the school of my choice was located and transportation options incase I had no vehicle of my own. I would remind myself that life is a journey not a race and that sometimes I have to take baby steps to get to where I want to even if the baby steps seem futile. I would adivise myself to seek many advisors for information about studying abroad options and what it would take to do that. Overall, I would advise myself to be humble.

If I went back in time as a high school senior, I would give myself the advice that you aren't a failure in life unless you give up. I am a very studious person in college but during my sophmore year I had to withdraw from an organic chemistry class in the middle of the semester because of a very low test score. I was devestated and wanted to give up and change my major but my parents persuaded me to retake the course. I just finished the same organic chemistry course this past semester and received an A-. After this experience I learned the importance of staying determined in times of adversity.

I would tell myself to be more outgoing and enjoy things more, while still getting my work done on time. Things change, there's no way to stop, and you got to keep rolling with the punches with you're head held high even when people are trying to knock you down.

Have a clear head. You don't have to know what you're going to do, but be focused anyway. Join in on activities on campus.

Go visit alot of places and find the place that fits you best. I am so greatful that I went through such a long process to find the school that fit me best because I have had an AMAZING experience. I am in the theatre program and have had so many amazing classes, master classes, and hands on expereinces. The professors are there to help us acheive and have a great career. Also, if money is an issue- don't let this stop you!!!! It takes alot of time to apply for scholarships, but there is plenty of money to be given out and available for ALL. Please, think twice about college because it is such a great learning experience and step from high school to post school!

I would have taken more AP courses and not taken high school as seriously as I did.

I would advise myself to be more out going. My freshman year I was very shy and it took me a long time to get to know people because I was always stuck in my room. I wish I could go back and enter school with the idea that I was going to meet everyone I possibly could.

Be prepared, that this experience is not like high school. You have to work hard and study, and you will find free time to have fun. It's a great experience and everyone should try it!

Always be open to new things and new people. Being on your own -away from family- can really change your views on life, and it's important to allow others to help you through those changes. Getting involved in new things can open your life to many possibilities you never imagined possible. It's not bad to change, but make sure you change for the better.

Take every opportunity that comes your way. Take the Advanced Placement tests because you never know when you will need them or could use the credits. Do not listen to your teachers in high school who tell you not to follow your dreams to Colorado. Prepare, prepare, prepare for living on your own by discovering who you really are before trying to do it while you also face the world on your own. Life will throw you curve balls that you may never expect but learn from them and do not get discouraged because it all works out one way or another. Be open to the world and what it has to offer you. New adventrues lie ahead and high school is just one step but take high school in because it is the best and easiset part of your life. Just be thankful for each day and live in the moment breathing in everything you are given in your life. Apprecciate the small things and stop fretting over the big ones. Lastly, never regret what feels right in the moment because the memory will last a life time.

Possibly take more college prep courses and to engage in learning material, not just passing classes. Also, education isn't everything, so relax and feel free to be social at times.

Just because a college isn't really well known or your first choice doesn't mean it's not for you or that it's a bad school. Stay open minded because you'll never know what it will be like until you start going there. Who knows you might find your future somewhere you'd never plan to look.

Finding the right college means that you have to ask a lot of questions about the possible college you would like to attend. You should try to find out everything from how much laundry is in the dorms, what kind of food they serve at the cafeteria, what majors the college has to offer, etc. Don't just rely on facts on the website either. A student should visit their college and look around and get a feel for the campus. Go on tours of the school, but also walk around after the tour and see if you could fit in well at that college.

The best advice I can give parents and/or students about finding the right college is to get to know the college as much as possible. Decide on two or three colleges and visit each campus; even try to meet some faculty members. If you do not feel at home consider looking at your other alternatives. I strongly urge each of you to make a plan of graduation; even if you are undeclared, make a plan for your undergraduate courses and stick to it. Once you are accepted by a college speak with an advisor right away, an advisor can set you on the right path and prevent you from taking courses you will not need to graduate. In short, do not assume you can make most decisions on your own, the faculty and staff are there to help you. Once you have a plan, don't be afraid to meet new people. College will be a more pleasant experience if you have friends to share it with. But, be careful and make sure you find a way to balance studying with your social life. It is important to have friends, but you want to be successful too.

I would say that visiting colleges is one of the most important things you can do in order to find the right college. I would also ask a student who has been at that college for their accessability to getting the classes you want, also to go to a college that focuses on the students needs for their major. I would also recommend spending a weekend with a student in the dorms and possibly shadowing to their classes.

I would recommend that students should find the college that will give them the best chance of success. If a college is too difficult, but prestegious, and the individual is not prepared or willing to work that hard, they will not be a successful student. Second, it would be best to find a school that most represents the students interests (ie science, education,natural resources, etc. ,international studies). These programs will provide the most opportunity to travel abroad or intern along side some of the best scientists and reasearchers. It is also important to pick an enviroment, in which the community enhances the student's education and culture!

When looking for the right college, it is important to keep in mind the best "fit" for the student. "Fit" can consider several elements including: academics, placement rates, financial aid, student life and housing, student employment, and political climate. Regardless of all of these factors, I would argue that student life and housing is one of the most important components, especially for a first-year student. Through living and learning communities, student organizations, and campus events, students find their "niche" within a college community. This is where they develop a social support system and often life-long friendships. To make the most of the college experience, I encourage students to take advantage of everything that is offered on campus. Within the classroom setting, students can benefit from taking advantage of study groups, study sessions, talking with and getting to know their professors, tutoring services, and study abroad programs. Outside of the classroom, students have many more opportunities to become involved including: student organizations, leadership opportunities, campus events, student government, hall government, and on-campus student employment. To maximize the college experience, fully immerse yourself in the process. A diverse resume will serve well during the job search and in life.

I would recommend that the student visits the college at least two times. One time should be with his/her family allowing the student to get there perspective. The second visit, should be either with a group of friends or some orientation group. The possible student needs to choose the college that they actually like, not the one that others think is the best. Another good way to find out if a specific college is right for you: talk to older friends from your high school that attend (or attended) the college you are considering. If you are friends with them, they may be of good use!

I would look at and visit as many schools as you can. There are so many great schools out there and the only way you are going to find the best one for you is by experiencing the campus first hand. When you are at college, do not give in to peer pressure. Stay true to yourself and you will leave college with a great degree and a great future.

When choosing a college or university remember that you are going to have to live in its vicinity for four or more years. It is an often overlooked aspect of choosing a school. I know I did at first.

For those who are seeking a college, my best advice would be broken down into three areas. First it would be the university environment, second would be dorm availability and third would be your career goal. In my experience these three areas have led me to a wonderful school that I truly enjoy. For the university environment you should look for a college where you would feel comfortable, that's a place that caters to your interests and offers you the things you would enjoy. Also, pick a school that allows you to learn in the best way possible, such as class sizes, and level of interaction with the professors, etc. Another key factor would be how available the dorms are, I think everyone should stay in the dorms for at least one year. I have built relationships, from living in the dorms, that are so strong that those friends will be standing at my wedding whenever that day may come. Finally pick a college that matches a career path that you would enjoy doing, not what makes the most money but a career that wouldn't feel like a job if you did it everyday.

Picking the right college is a hard choice, but I think the main thing you need to do is research. Research where you want to go. See what schools have for certain programs. Ask around and find out what other people think. If they have what you want or something that interests you, GREAT! When looking, also go to a school you wouldn't mind staying at for 4 years. You don't want to go to a place that you hate to be at. When at college, sign up for atleast one class that you want to take that would be fun. This will take some stress off of you. Also, take more credits than you need if you can. If need be, you can always drop a class if you don't like it. Along with that, look up the professors that teach the class on ratemyprofessor.com. It makes preperation for those classes a lot easier. One last word of advice, STAY INVOLVED and ENJOY COLLEGE! This is the only time in your life that you will be doing this, live it up and enjoy your experience because before you know it, it will be gone!

My advice would be to explore and visit many different colleges/universities during your senior year of high school. Talk to faculty, students, and anyone you can get your hands on. Explore not only the campus but also the community that surrounds it. See the residential halls (dorms), taste the food, and sit in on a few classes. By doing this you can get a strong feeling for what the campus and people are like. As far as getting the most out of college: don't be afraid to try everything that your campus has to offer. Through getting involved on and off campus with intramurals, the arts, and everything in-between your college experience has the potenitial to go from mediocre to the time of your life.

Take tours, ask questions, do your research abouth the school. Make sure you really like the school and believe you will enjoy yourself and be successful. Also, make sure school, and living expenses are affordable. Once you are in a school, live it up. Get out and meet new people. College is the last point in life for you to become whoever you want to be. It is a fresh slate, enjoy yourself. Opportunity is everywhere.

I knew that I always wanted to come to Stevens Point for athletic training. I never really looked around at other schools. So I dont have any advice regarding finding the right college. However to make the most of your college experience I believe it is very important that you live in the dorms for at least one year to that friends can be made. Without friends and meeting new people college would not be enjoyable, it would just be school. So my advice to make the most of college is to make lots and lots of friends and get involved in everything!

If the incoming student knows what he or she wants to study, research the programs available to him or her at various universities, visit them, talk to professors, and pick the program that seems to fit best. You're likely to find like-minded class mates who were attracted to the same oppurtunities. If you don't know what you plan to study, it's a little tougher, but that's what I went through. I decided to go to UWSP because it offered a large variety of programs, the campus was attractive, it wasn't too far from home (Green Bay), and it has an awesome campus radio station (90fm - your only alternative).

Visit as many as you can!

Stick with it and learn what experiences you can take advantage of while in school. You'll miss college life, make the most of it.