Utah State University Top Questions

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

Nicole

Look into each University closely and find people that you know and like and ask them what they thought of the University. The last thing to do is ask someone that went into a completely different field as you how their education was; likely they would have had completely different classes and experiences.

Heidi

When determining which college is the best choice for you, I highly recommend taking a campus tour of several colleges and universities. This will allow you to get a feel for the school and let you speak to counselors and those involved in your prospective major. This part is very important. By talking to the professors and counselors involved in your major, you will learn a great deal about the quality of the program and the quality of the people you will be encountering during your college experience. Both must be exceptional. If they're not, tour different schools until you find both. Also talk to students currently in the program you're interested in. Ask them all the questions you can think of. Find out about the program's reputation, and if other surrounding schools have a program with a better reputation. It's easy to be impressed with several aspects of the school, decide to go there, then discover the program is horrible and it's actually a lot better at the school's closest rival. Do your research online and talk to as many people as you can about the school to help you decide.

Mercer

I think they should search lots of different options because you never know when you may change your mind or find something that really catches your interest at a different school than you thought you would have gone to.

A

Finding the right place that you can thrive and become the person that you are capable of becoming is no easy task but I think it begins with a tour of the campus. I don't think you can know where you will fit in without first visiting the campus and knowing where you will walk to class everyday, or where you will meet those lifelong friends. You also must consider your interests. If a certain university has a major that you are wanting to pursue, then do everything in your power to attend that university because if you are going to school for what you love, then it won't feel like work once you are there. Once you have found the place you belong, its then up to you to become involved and sometimes taken out of your comfort zone in order to really obtain the true college experience. Only when you have been rattled out of your own skin and pushed into the unknown blindly can you say that you have lived the college experience.

Amber

Never choose a college without making a visit there. Their brochures will tell you whatever they want you to hear, but if you go to campus, you can get a feel for what the facilities are actually like. Apply for any financial aid you hear of.

Melissa

One of the best things I did when trying to deside which university to attend was actually visiting the campuses. Its really important to be able to get a feel for the campus and see if it fits your personality. Ultimately I had to make a decision between two universities that were both great schools. The deciding factor was how I felt when I visited both campuses. This became my deciding factor for me. I

Emily

Make sure you've been to the campus and at least had a small tour, visited with some advisors, and especially some students who already go there to see how they like it. Don't be shy! A lot of students wouldn't mind being stopped on campus and being asked a few quick questions about how they like the campus and if they would recommend it to other students.

Erinn

When I was choosing a college, I had two in mind. I wanted my to be sure whatever college I chose was the ?right? one for me. I stressed over it for months until I decided to just choose one. I chose College A and still felt the same anguish that was there before I decided! Something wasn?t right, so I changed my mind and chose College B. Instantly, all my worry and stress disappeared for good. I knew I made the right decision because I was finally at peace and could see myself having great success at College B. Students, deciding which college to attend is a major decision in your life, but it doesn?t have to be torturous. First, make a decision, because it won?t decide itself. Then, if it feels good it probably is. There isn?t necessarily one school for every person so any of your choices could be just fine. Take tours on campus and ask current students what their experiences are to get a better feel for your college. Once you?re there, make the most of it by getting involved and working hard. You definitely won?t regret it!

Ben

Find a college that gives you great acedemic advising. Smaller colleges are very focused on the student and help you get more for your money. Get involved in social activities, it's fun and it provides great networking opportunities with similar minded students.

Amber

Students need to first decide what the most important things about a college are to them. I would say that the number one thing students should look at is the academic program for the degree that they are pursuing and should compare academic programs of many schools to determine which program looks the most beneficial. After reviewing programs, students should talk to many people who are not only going to the schools that they are considering, but students who are pursuing the same degree program to see what the program is like, teachers, work-load, etc. Next students should consider tuition. Like it or not, if a student can't afford to go to the school, the social atmosphere is irrelevant. Students should talk to financial add representatives and see if they would be eligable for a work study, grant, or other form of financial aid. Students need to take their list of most important things about a college, get informed about them, and make their decision based on which combination of things is going to make them the most successful and happy in college.

Lichelle

You're paying for college, don't slack off. Don't think that, just because you're out and on your own, you don't have homework. One of the biggest problems is students who stay up late at night, then sleep through their classes the next day. Your grades WILL suffer if you do this. Pick a school that's right for you. Personally, everyone I talked to had a good thing to say about Utah State. Talk around, learn about the pros and cons of schools you're looking at and make sure you check to make sure it's condusive to your desires. Not all colleges are good for you, even if they're good for someone else.

Elise

Don't be shy - get involved as soon as possible. It's harder to get involved as the year goes on...it's easy to think of excuses not to.

Sherrie

There was really only one college I wanted to attend upon graduating high school. I had been to the campus a few times, and I really enjoyed the environment. So I applied for that school. I didn't really care to look into any others. Luck or something happened to be on my side. I recieved an acceptance letter along with an offer for a scholarship which would cut my tuition payments in half. I was thrilled. Not only would I be able to attend my school of choice, but I would be close to home and family and have part of my schooling paid for. With this my advice for students would be: If there is something that you really want, work for it. Don't doubt the abilities you have. Work hard and do the best that you can. But have some fun while your at it. My advice to parents would be: Support your children in all that they do as much as you are able. I guarantee I would not have gotten this far in school were it not for the support of my parents in my mental, emotional, and financial needs.

Dan

Chosing a university is a difficult choice, but there are many things that should play into that decision. Academic reputation, value of what you're paying for, and campus involvement before, during, and after attending that school are all things that are important to me. You don't have to go to the top ranked school in your desired program to get a good job, but you should feel like all the money you are paying to get your education is worth it. Also, being involved with the university makes the money you spend on it so much more valuable. You can have life long memories during your time in college and should take advantage of it. Being involved with campus events is so much fun and can make all those late nights studying worthwhile when you get to go to your football or basketball game and cheer on the home team. Always remember who you are when you choose a school. If you're not a partier, don't go to a school ranked in the top ten party schools. Doing well in your classes should come first, but don't overdue yourself and remember to have fun.

Aimee

I think the most important thing for parents and students to realize is this a very important and temporary phase in life. There are endless opportunities to learn, grow, network, and experience new things. In comparing my college experinces thus far with others, I feel that location plays a crucial role in your college experience. The school I chose to attend for my major is far from my parents home. At first, this was very difficult and lonely and still requires a bit of sacrifice on some occasions. However, this ended up being a great advantage to me. I have been 'forced' to get out of my comfort zone and meet people that I would have otherwise never met. I stay here on the weekends and go out with friends from all over the world and get involved in activites within the community. I have learned how to be independent and responsible. I have made myself a home away from home. In contrast, however, I have had roommates that go home every weekend, and miss out on social opprotunities, building new friendships/relationships, and in general- the joys of young adulthood. College is an amazing experice, don't miss it.

Nephi

This is a safe place for anyone.

Caitlin

Do what feels right. Reseach and visit the scool first.

Deven

Make sure you don't go based on what the college tells you. Get out there and ask an array of students who can give you a more solid base and realistic view. If diversity or being the majority is important look at the numbers.

Jake

Find a school that fits your values and is in a location that fits with your needs and desires. Also find a school that has the college you want to graduate in. Also going into college with an open mind will help you to do well. Being able to see what your options are and having a chance to change your mind if you want to is nice. Be ready to work hard and get the most out of your college expereince.

John

Choose the right!

Christina

The right college will have several advantages: a good program for one's chosen career path; good internships; affordability; a happy distance from home, among other things. Once the list of good schools has been narrowed down, there are only two things a student can do to determine which one is right. The first is to visit the campus. It is impossible for a student to know if a school will suit their personality and needs if they don't walk around campus, visit the library, try the meal plan food, spend time in the dorms, or check out extracurricular activities and fraternities/sororities. The second thing to do is decide if the school feels good, because unhappy students don't do their homework. If a school feels good, it's the right one. Making the most of the college experience is much the same: a student needs to know the campus, use the available resources, try some clubs and activities, and have a social life. You might return to school someday, but you're only this age once. Learn from it and enjoy it.

Emily

Parents and students should visit the campus and talk to real students about their experiences. Students should look into their program to see which college fits their needs and interests best.

Aubry

Pick a college that suits what you are interesed in. If you are interested in nursing, be sure they even have a nursing program there. Also pick a school that will move at your pace. If you want to work hard and study a lot pick a school where students do that , if you want a school where it moves slower then choose one like that.

Casey

If you have the right attitude, any school can be the right school for you.

Thomas

The best advice i can give about finding a school is just go with your heart and wherever you feel like you will be most comfortable then go there. to make the most of your college experience you have to be yourself and dont pretend to be something your not just stay true to yourself but also dont be afraid of experementing and finding new things you may like that you may never have heard of before.

Hilary

College is an experience, don't forget to experience it! It's a time of learning, stress, friendship, and fun. Take the time to enjoy each step of the way, even when the college life gets you down. The best thing to do is not worry about your mistakes but look forward to your future.

Thomas

First, decide your major quickly. Preferably, try to decide it before you begin the application process. That not only makes you elligible for all sort of scholarships in that major's department, but it will help you in your investigation as to which university will be the best one for that major. People don't go to MIT to get a bachelor's in creative writing or Juliard to fulfill a pre-med program. That's true to an extent about all colleges; they all offer something unique, and you can tailor your college choice to your wants and needs. There is no need and no excuse to settle. Don't choose a college just because all your friends are going there; you can and will always make more friends.

Shaina

You must visit the campus. You are going to be spending the next 4-5 years there, make sure you like it. Make sure the college fits you. You don't fit the college it fits you. Go there, get a feel for it. Also, you get out what you put in. If you want a great education you have to dedicate your time, work, life to it. Of course you will have fun and go out and party, but you are there to work. Don't skip classes. Think of it like this you paying to not go to class. Don't rush picking your major. Try a few things out you will find something that truly amazes you that you may have over looked if you rush your decision. Most importantly if you do not like a situation you are in be it housing, a major, a circle of friends, you have the power to change it.

Emily

Remember that Logan is cold--prepare well for that. :)

Lindsay

I think the most important thing is to decide who you want to be in five years. Write down all the characteristics and accomplisments you aspire to gain in the next few years, and select a university that is going to help you meet every single one of those needs. Don't just consider academics, but consider the environment, the professors, the location, your extracurricular desires, etc. A college education is found far beyond the classroom, and the best education for you does not neccesarily mean you need to attend Yale or Harvard. I love going to Utah State University, the people are friendly, there are so many ways to get involved and give back to the community, and every single one of my professors knows me by name. I chose my university because it was personal to me, I wake up every morning smiling, and excited to go to class. You should feel the same way about whatever college you select. You are going to grow more from college than any other place, so make sure you grow the way you want, plant yourself where the sun is going to shine the brightest. Go where you can live.

Ross

Go with your gut, and do what you feel. This is YOUR life and no one else's. When you move out, it will only be you deciding on what you will do with yourself. Do not base choices on mom and dad. Breathe in every breath in college like it's your last, it's the time of your life. Work hard and play hard, make friends and become who you were born to be,

Joseph

Go where you feel you will be happiest! Make a list of the campuses that have your major or potential majors and visit all of them, you will know where you want to go when you get there. You will notice that everything, including grades, social life, money, etc. will take care of its self if you are happy and positive. As well, get involved! Being involved in something, anything makes it all worthwhile. You get to meet people and make friends that will be your connections for the rest of your life. Join a club, play intramural sports, get to know your student board or even be your student board; for kicks and giggles do all of them! But always, always have an Open Mind. Good Luck!

Erik

Search out a college that you will enjoy in all aspects of your life including academically and socially. Search out a college that has a reputation for good school spirit and dedicated teachers and programs. Your experience will be more rewarding when you have teachers that care about the success of students and also friends to help you through the rough times. College can be a stressful time and if you attend a college that is dedicated to the student, life will be that much easier.

Bailee

I would just have to say that the college years are to most significant years of a person's life. College is where you learn the skills you're going to use for the rest of your life. Even general education classes feel nothing like high school. In high school you feel like you're learning material because it's required by the school board. In my general education classes I really feel like the material will help me throughout my life and my career. The social scene of college is so important also. In high school you interact with insecure teenagers who are trying to impress each other. College is where you learn to interact with the kind of people you will most likely be working with for the rest of your life. Adults, or those becoming adults. And relationships and education are the most important things about this existance.

Alaina

Do your reserach and visit the campus to see if it is right for you. Talk with people who have attending the schools are you investigating and once you choose your school step out of your comfort zone to make friends and enjoy the experience.

Laynee

Actually go and visit the school during the school year, and not only just one of the those tours. Walk around with someone you know who is an alumnus or is currently attending the school. That way you have no pre-set schedule so you can take all the time you want. Walk around campus and get a feel for what it will be like going to school there and take note of different things you like and dislike. Do the classes seem to big? to small? Do the students and faculty seem friendly? If possible look at your different housing options both on campus and off. Do you want to live in a big city or small town? These are the biggest things that helped me decide, and I have no doubt in my mind that I made the right decision.

Jylisa

The advice that I would give parents/students about finding the right college is to visit the campus at different times during the year, attend a Parent Weekend, and attend sports events or concerts on campus. Meet with an undeclared advisor/academic advisor in your chosen major before deciding to attend. Look into the financial aid/scholarships available at this college or university. Also, check to see if the college offers an Honors Program, Undergraduate Research Program, and Study Abroad with campus credit. Look into tutoring for different classes and the opportunities to complete internships before graduation. Participating in campus events and learning about the college's programs/activities is very important because students/parents are able to see campus life and all the opportunities students may have if they decide attend. My advice for making the most of the college experience is to get INVOLVED and stay involved, whether it is with a club, varsity sports/intramurals, or a fraternity/sorority! Every week there are campus-sponsored activities like sports events/ tailgate parties, celebrations of different ethnic backgrounds, and FREE FOOD! Before deciding on a college, I suggest parents/students ask questions about every aspect of college life.

Michael

I would encourage any parents or students looking for the right college/university to take a capmus tour, and actually talk to some of the students who are either currently attending the institution or have attended it in the past--see what their feelings are, find out what they liked/dislike and why.

Emily

Find a school that is the right size--some are too big, and that's just how it is. Also look for a school that is in a good community, a place where the people around you share your value system, whatever it may be. It also helps to make sure that the school you choose has the major you're most likely to pursue.

Miya

I would say to take college tours and really get a feel for the college that you are looking into because that is what will become your home you want to be comfortable. I would also say get involved and meet people. Get out and do fun things becasue college is not just about school learning but also about social learning and finding out more about yourself. Don't just do homework and go to classes and work have a social life!!!!

Brian

Choose what you like. Pick something that holds your values. Go somewhere where you will enjoy to recreation. School is important, but there is more to education than class.

Samantha

It is important to consider 2 things when looking for the best college for you: Academics and Student Life. Decide what you want in those 2 categories and then find a school that best offers what you are looking for.

Makaela

Make sure the prosepective student visits the campus before they are entirely set on attending it. They need to experience it first, maybe stay a couple days, get to know some people, their advisor, and even attend athletic events.

Katie

Although it sounds cliche, my advice is to follow your heart. There are so many wonderful school options out there, but only a few of them are exactly what you are looking for. If you are torn between favorites, talk to students that currently attend your prospective university. Ask them what they like and dislike about the university, campus, housing availability, social network, actities, sports, financial costs and academics. Make a list of all your pro's and con's and weigh your options out. Once you find the right school that fits you, you will discover a new drive within yourself to be better, to study harder, and to make more friends. Don't be afraid to live it up and be whoever you want to be! Live life with no regrets. Instead think of every experience and every mistake as a learning and growing opportunity.

Jenna

Do your research when looking at schools. Don't just look at price and the prestige of the program you want to go into. More often than not a student will change their major so for the most part you'll want a well rounded school for an undergraduate degree. Take into consideration the social life as well. Visit the campuses you are considering and wander around. When you do go to college do all that you can to break out of your comfort zone and make new friends. Go to activities, randomly visit your neighbors, and do what you can to meet new people. Learn how to prioritize your time - pulling all nighters generally isn't worht it. Have fun! Take out loans to do internships and study abroad. You'll never have those opportunities again. Take your time as well. If you have the option of graduating early - don't. These are your last years you can be a kid so make the most of it. College really can be the best time of your life up to that point!

Maren

Start saving early, if at all possible. Money should not have to be the final deciding factor when choosing a college--the educational success of the student should. Even if the student has not settled on a field of study, they can sometimes narrow it down to a broad category such as the arts, or the sciences, etc. Keep that in mind when choosing a school and find one that is stronger in that area. Location matters! The student should not feel stifled, isolated, or condemned because of the location and demographic of the college. And finally, it is possible to work while in school, but BE CAREFUL! Don't bite off more than you can chew. If your grades suffer, all that work to pay your way through college has gone to waste, and you may find yourself working that same fastfood job for the rest of your life. You only have one chance to be a young university student...make the most of it.

Ciara

Know what you want in life and be motivated while trying to achieve it, create a balance between academics and your social life, and learn as much as you can.

Danielle

Find a college that has everything you could possibly think of wanting. Make sure that it has the programs that you are looking at. That it has programs to help you decide what you want to go into. Know the reputation of the college, whether it is a party school or one that is more focused on academics. Talk to your kids, find out what they want and listen to them. Make sure that it is financially feasible for you to attend that college. You don't have to attend Harvard just to get a good education; there are other schools besides the Ivy Leagues. Do research on the colleges you are interested in attending. Understand what their good programs are and match them to your interests. Don't waste time at a school that doesn't have what you want. If you want to go to a 2-year school first make sure that you take classes that will transfer easily, there is nothing worse that classes that won't transfer. Go where you are comfortable, it is hard enough making the changes of living on your own, you don't need to make it harder.

Chris

If I could chose one thing to tell parents and students that are going to college, it would be that to prepare to change your mind on things. College is an experience that is meant to expand how you think, to question things and figure out your own path in life. So many are not prepared to break from the mold of being told what to learn and find it hard to handle this new intellectual growth and it can hamper a students learning experience. Prepare to challenge yourself and others on your journey of discovering who you truly are and what you want to do with this adventure called life.