Virginia Commonwealth University Top Questions

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

Roberta

Considering that I have yet to start the Fall semester at VCU, I have learned quite a lot during these few summer months. My first word of advice may sound like a broken record, but do well in school. Some students may think that getting by with occasional B’s is alright, but in the end, those B’s will look like specks of dust on a perfect college application. If there is too much dust, the admissions committee will not be able to see the wonderful student that the person may be because they are blinded by imperfection. This does not, however, mean that you should not be involved in extracurricular activities and have hobbies, no. If those activities are good enough, they can shine – they can shine through all of those dust particles. Symbolically, this may sound very magical, but it really is the truth. Being able to find a balance between education, social life, and sleep is the key to success not only in school, but in life. Live each day to its greatest, but be prepared for tomorrow.

Jessie

I would try harder in high school and learn everything youcan. not just to get better grades, but to prepare yourself for essay writing and how to sutdy efficently

Michael

"Do your homework! Study! Get involved in more community/extra curricular activities!" I was not the most active student when it came to participating in school functions, nor did I give 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of my effort in all my classes. When I felt like applying myself, I did a fantastic job, but when I did not care about the classes, I would blow off my work. Looking back on it now, I regret not putting every bit of effort into my school work. Although I was just outside the top 10{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of my high school class, I could have done so much better. I could have been involved in so much more. I would tell all of this to my high school self in hopes of achieving so much more in my four years of high school. Honor societies, scholastic bowl, other clubs - something besides just the band activities would have been fantastic. If only time machines were a reality... then I wouldn't be kicking myself now for my lack of determination.

Elise

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself that I should major in something where I will have an easier time finding a job and one that I will enjoy. I would tell myself to make sure I take all my general education classes before transferring, so I don't have to worry about taking them when I transfer to the University of my choice. I would also tell myself to find a part-time job as soon as I can, so that I have that experience when I go and apply for another job. Most part-time jobs are very flexible in the hours they give you because they know that you are also going to school and how important it is to have an education. The last thing I would tell myself is that going to a community college is a lot more affordable and the class sizes are smaller, which is nicer. Also, most of the classes at the community college are equivalent to the classes offered at the universities and they are easily transferrable.

Rachael

I actually transitioned really well compared to most people, but I was not expecting the huge workload that I received upon entering college. If I could talk to my high school senior self, I would tell her that she needs to work harder in high school, if only just to get ready for college. I rarely studied or did much homework in high school, because I got straight A's despite it. It kind of set me back in college, though, because I didn't know how to study properly. I would also tell myself that I am doing well in art school, because in high school I had this fear that I would be a bad artist compared to the others at VCU because of the fact that I didn't take many art classes. As for advice, I'd tell myself to take art classes so that I could be better prepared. I would also tell myself to practice writing essays, because there are a lot that you have to write in college. Lastly, I would force myself to apply for scholarships in high school, since my dad lost his job the month I started my first semester.

Phylicia

High school relationships might not last through college. You both become a different person.

Kswanna

I will always try my best to be the best that I can be and you should too. I just finished my first year at Virginia Commonwealth University and currently have a 3.3 grade point average there. I am from a single parent home and I am the first person to go to college and further my education in my immediate family. I have always dreamed of becoming a nurse. Since, I was a young girl I have helped my grandmother with her insulin shots and testing her diabetes, anything I could do to lend a hand. I strongly believe a mind is a terrible thing to waste and college is the best way to explore your talents, so please go to college! My first year of college I learned so much academically and I have matured into an independent young woman. In this next upcoming year I plan on becoming very active in many clubs and organizations. I love my college Virginian Commonwealth University and plan to leave with a great impact and start a legacy.

Shane

High school is fertile ground for preparing yourself for the challenges and opportunities of postsecondary education. High school grades, activity involvement, class rank and awards and recognitions are all important factors in eligibility for college scholarships, admissions, and other opportunities following high school. Sometimes finding the right opportunities is half of the battle. There are abundant resources in high school and in college to experiment with career interests, learn more about career possibilities, and explore careers that you didn't even know existed. It's extremely important to take inventory of your talents, strengths and interests and explore careers that you will find fulfillment and joy in. A postsecondary course of study is of vital importance, as it will dictate many of your employment opportunities and many aspects of your future career path. I firmly believe that taking the time to explore and digest your options is imperative before beginning college. In doing so, you will not only be more likely to succeed because you can envision the end result - the result being the goal you want in the longterm - but also you'll be more motivated and focused to see it through to the end.

Vu

If I did go back into time, I would surely establish that college is not all about fun and games. The number one thing that I would try to embed into myself is the need to actually show up for classes. That I should think more seriously about what I want to do in life instead of waiting for an epiphany to come along to instruct me of my purpose. Other things that I would say is that time management is a must. I have to allow enough time inbetween one objective to another so that I won't be overwhelmed by how fast paced everything will become. And that the other management that I will have to control is my social life. That having fun once in a while is okay, but setting priority on my studies are more important. Friends are good to have, but their influences might be detrimental to reaching my professional goals. So try to find a college that is not too overpopulated with your highschool friends because sooner or later you'll be at each others throats.

Crystalautumn

If I could go back in time to myself as a high school senior, the advice I would give to myself would that whatever I could achieve in the time of my last year to achieve it. If I could learn as much extra knowledge from my teachers, then I should reach for it. If I could get extra knowledge for Physics, then go for it. I would tell myself to study as hard as I could possibly can so that I would be assured that I would have a good standing in college and scholarships and grants when I graduate from high school. The main point that I would stress to my high school self would be to learn as much as I could, because I wouldn't be able to get that kind of free tutelage from anywhere else and also I would have the time in my hands to accomplish all that I would have wanted to learn in high school before I would graduate.

Laura

Never stop putting effort into everything you do. Whether you move forward to a community college or a four-year, always try your hardest. Things may seem to be easier than you expected them to be when you first begin the transition; things may not seem much more different from high school. However, this is the real world, and you now have not only your independence, but your responsibilities. Putting 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} into everything you do is crucial for both academic success and personal accomplishment. Even if something seems easy, always put your utmost effort into it and never settle for something that is simply mediocre or not as great as it could be. That way, you make even the easiest tasks a challenge, which exercises your mind and your personal feeling of achievement.

Colette

I spent many years wishing I could go back to my high school self and say one thing: “Do not do drugs.” Few things in my life have so negatively impacted my future. I began using heroin when I was a sophomore in high school. I was smart and quiet and easily influenced. The drugs helped me to feel as though I fit in, as I suffered from social anxiety. I was popular and well-liked when I was someone besides myself. I left college after my freshman year and sought treatment. I have been sober for nine years now. Life is not easy. I still get nervous around large groups of people and I do not have nearly as many friends as I did before. I become sad when unfortunate things happen, stressed when I have too much to do, and happy when good things happen, like being accepted to the college of my choice. As painful as these emotions may be, I would tell my younger self to embrace them. As my father, and perhaps any father, would say, these events “build character.” Well, I suppose I am quite the character. At least now I can embrace it.

Marwan

I am great

Noelle

Being in the Art program, I am subject to the complex projects that come along with the required studio classes. For me, the real challenge has been figuring out how to execute each one that I am assigned, given that the teachers have rather high standards. However, the greatest part is that after all of the sleepless nights working on sculptures that seem to only leave you with hot glue gun burns, you're left with this great feeling of having accomplished something that was once so intimidating. Just pushing through the stress and worry of not knowing how to do something is worth it because in the end you have something you're proud of, something you're happy to stand by. Being at VCU has really influenced this for me because I have met the most fascinating people here , and am so inspired by all of the experiences that I have had thus far. This school has offered me the opportunity to be a part of the excitement and flurry of the world that's waiting for me once I make it through school.

Catherine

A lot of students go to school to get a degree. In many fields it is impossible to get an adequate job without one. Every year the college application process becomes more competative, as dos the job market. Students go to class because they have to, they study becaue they have to, and because if they don't then they are risking not getting an adequate job. I am not here for a degree. I am here to learn everything I can. As an art major, part of what will make me successful is understanding the world around me, doing constant research, and persuing the ideas that interest me. I take the classes that interest me and I work hard because I love learning, not just becase I want an A. It has enabled me to fuel my love for learning in an environment where I can learn from others, develop relationships with my professors, and learn who I am as an artist and as a person.

David

First of all, my college experience has redefined the pattern of my usual life and has enabled me to hold on to a positive perspective of what life should be. Optimism is now an integral aspect of my general outlook of life and it remains the engine that drives me on to believe that I could achieve all things as long as I make up my mind to put in the required effort. I have been able to improve upon my communication skills and this shall forever remain an asset to me in this ever evolving global marketplace. I am now confident more than ever in my entire life about all endeavors I pursue and I believe strongly that in the near foreseeable future, I would keep on standing after confronting and surmounting any challenges I may face. Above all things, I believe the development of my communication skills as well as a renewed sense of obligation enveloped with confidence towards meeting the requirements of a successful future have been the most valuable things I have gotten out of my college experience because I believe these qualities or attributes will catapult me to much greater heights of achievement. in life

Monica

I have most definately gained a sense of independence. All my life my parents have always been right there to fix what I had screwed up, so I never really understood how it would feel to "fall on my butt". Here, I've seen so many different types of people. In highschool, people were judged based on looks, here it's completely opposite. People I thought I'd never be friends with have become my support system. It's nice to have people who are on the same page as you. Being surrounded by "nerds" in college isn't always a bad thing. I have always considered education as a major part of my life, but here I finally realize how all my hardwork will determine my future. College has really been a huge wake up call for me.

Marina

Out of my college experience, I have experienced how much work it takes to be an achiever in college. As I look back at all the homework and studying in high school , it has payed off. Of all the work I have done before getting into college, it has helped me get far. As I continue to work hard, it will help me get far in college.

Denise

I have gotten so much out of college life. Mainly the fact that everyone is there for a reason and they are dertermined to succeed. I enjoy school and learning new material every day. It keeps me interested and focused. I have learned that getting a degree is not easy and nothing just comes to you. You have to work really hard to get the grades you deserve. I have worked my butt off for 3 years and it has paid off. Making Dean's list 2 years in a row has been my high light of college life. To be succussful is my dream and it is what I want out of my college experience. School is a powerful tool and it will help me in my life to come. I can not say in words how valuable my education has become. I am greateful that I can attend college.

Stephanie

Attending this university has given me a greater value of respect for others, despite the situation. In high school it was all about your status. If you were a freshman you werent valued as important in the high school environment and the one I attended went as far as to riducule and shout copious amouts of ridiculous chants. Needless to say, I expected the same entering VCU as a freshman. On the first day of orientation the reaction of my fellow freshman shocked me, to say the least. Everyone was friendly and I made tons of friends very quickly. There were no boundaries between the classes and they respected us as new to the college experience. The amount of chivalry was overwhelming and to this day I am still subject to students rushing to assist opening a door or to swipe their cards for entrance into the building. I value my attendance because of the mutual respect that flows throught the campus. It has taught me just how far kindness can travel and it is a lesson I will continue to spread and have kept with me ever since.

Jacquelyn

Going to college is always different than what you would expect. For me, going to college has forced me to learn how to live on my own. I really enjoy having the freedom to do whatever I want, but the responsibility to make the right choices for me. You know how much of each activity you can do before things start to slide, such as grades or the work necessary for your major. College is all about learning to hold your own. No one is there to hold your hand through every bit of work. While most professors are there to help you, you are responsible for your own work and your own education. It's almost a transition between the comfort of highschool or your parents' house, and living out on your own, paying bills and buying your own food. It has been extremely important for me to learn how to live on my own, and it will help me in the future tremedously.

Sophia

I can say with 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} confidence I could not be the person I am today without my college experience. Nothing gives you the opportunity to come into yourself the way college does. The professors I’ve grown close to haven’t just taught me facts and statistics; they’ve taught me values and ethics. My peers have shown me such character and wonder that if I don’t see them for 3 weeks or 30 years, time is a tiny distance for hearts to travel. I’m so sure of myself and my dreams that I know it’s not worth living if you aren’t sucking the very marrow out of life. The value from college won’t be my degree or my debts. It will be the passion, the wisdom, and the drive that I’ve now got for the rest of my life. Like the clicking as you climb the first hill of a rollercoaster, all of this has just been building up to the drop. The really value will be in where the momentum takes me.

Amanda

I have known for a long time that I want to be an artist. Going to Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts has given me confidence in my choice. Although I enjoyed subjects that I took in high school, the curriculum at VCU is more relevant to my future life as an artist. For instance, as an art student at VCU, I was exposed to new ideas and media in art that I had not previously experienced. My Honors Art Worlds trip to New York City, for example, allowed me to see some of the best contemporary art in the United States today, inspiring me to be more creative in my own art. New media taught included video production, animation, sound art, and mylar . My Honors Art History course gave me a new historical perspective on art, showing me where I currently stand within this massive field. VCU has also expanded my view of the world. I therefore plan to study abroad, not only to experience great art, but to also learn to better appreciate others. My college art experience has therefore been invaluable and will definitely help me to reach my full potential as a professional artist.

Ashley

Every August, new high school graduates prepare for their transition into college. Anxious, nervous, and some frightened, these young adults begin a new stage in their lives, wondering what new experiences will come their way. From high school to college, I would say the transition can either be as easy as pie, or quite difficult. The transition from high school classes to college classes for me, was a bit difficult. While it was easy for me to maintain my responsibility for my attendance in classes, it’s quite strenuous to think that failing one exam would have a tremendous impact on my overall grade. However, upholding my grades from high school to college has been an easy task. With my successful study habits from high school it has been easy to prepare for exams in college. Living on campus has been a surprisingly easy transition. The easiest part of the transition to living on campus has been making new friends and relationships because every college student is focused on academics but is still concerned with having the time of their lives. I have also found that becoming involved in extracurricular activities on campus has made the transition to college easier.

Karlyn

College has provided the following skills: time management, negotiation skills, stress management, and interpersonal skills. This was an invaluable experience because it is the real world in a controlled, school setting.

Priscilla

My college experience has given me confidence that I never had before. I feel like I can conquer the world. I have developed strong friendships that will last a lifetime. I have learned how to manage my time, apply myself and stay determined. These are important tools that I value and will need for the rest of my life. Attending college is the best way to learn these values. This is the time where I learn not only educational skills but life skills that I will always need. Nothing in this world can prepare you for the world like college can! I am also acheiving my dream, which is becoming a registered nurse. College is giving me the opportunity to fullfill my lifelong dream. I have gotten so much out of my college experience and I hope to learn more and gain more as I continue my education!

Amber

Since coming to Virginia Commonwealth University, I have grown to greatly appreciate its diverse student body. Everyday you meet someone from another culture or background and it is truly a great experience. It has given me the chance to learn about other cultures from someone who is a part of it. That type of learning cannot be gained by reading a textbook. I feel it is valuable because when you step out into the real world after graduation in search of a job, it is important that you can work with all types of people in all types of situations. VCU definitely prepares its students for the future.

Carver

Attending college was perhaps one of the greatest choices I have ever made. College opened my eyes to new ways of looking at the world. I started attending my local community college when I was fifteen. I was struck from the beginning how open the culture was to new ideas and free expression. Going in I, like many people, thought I would learn a set a facts that may or may not be applicable to what I would do with my life. Instead I got something infinitely more valuable, I learned how to think. Even in my young age I was easily accepted by the community of learners and made several lasting friends. Those few years were some of best I have known. They have given me a solid foundation from which to lead my life. Looking forward I plan to return to college to continue my education further and inspire others to do the same.

Erick

the college experience i got was amazing. At first i was afriad because everthing was new and unknown. i didn't kno what was i suppose to do or to speak to. but thankfully the college kids who go there, help me alot and i was happy that they did or else i would have been lost. also the teahcers are pretty nice to, some are from university that i never knew teach here. they don't have this in high school so i was happy. lastly the campus im attending is really big and so crowded, but it was cool. attending college is very valuable to me because i can go explore what the world and school have to offer me and which one i like. also explore my intrest to see if i like it or not. Its really nice to meet people there to beside meeting drug uses or all an above. but most importently, making my parents proud of me of making it to college, that makes it very valuable.

Kimberly

I believe that I have grown as a person by attending Virginia Commonwealth University. Not only was I able to be a part of the diversity within the campus, but I also was given the opportunity to live in the dorms on campus; therefore, I was able to enjoy the different aspects of the dorms life as well. I was able to meet various types of people who helped me to learn new things that I probably would have never been exposed to if I went somewhere else. Virginia Commonwealth University was always my type choice, mainly for it's nursing program, but also because I am a very open-minded person and I cherish diversity. VCU gave me diversity and beyond. It enlightened me to new people and new aspects of our society. I do not regret attending VCU, and I would not change my experience at all.

Zack

Being away from home and attending college has let me grow and mature a little.

Krista

I have been a single mother with two small children all while attending college. Thru my attendence I have learned just how valueable a college education is, It is helping me to achieve a more stable and independent life style after I graduate. The best part of this experience is that I am teaching my children anything is possible if you are determined enough and the best things in life you have to work hard for. I am coming to realize that this is a great expeirence for both me and my children and know one can ever take this from me.

Tia

The most I've gotten out of my college experience is being more open-minded. Before I attended college, I went to school with the same type of people from kindergarten to high school so I was only used to certain things. VCU is extremely diverse so I encouter different types of people on a daily basis. At first, it was a challenge for me to open up to different customs that I wasn't familiar with. After my first semester, I met alot of great new people and I began accepting their backgrounds and traditions. This school has been so valuable for me to attend becuase it made me a better person. I'm more sociable and humble than I've ever been before and I'm no longer one-track minded.

Kristin

Out of my college experience I have learned never be afraid to ask question whether in class or socially because asking questions and understanding will make you a better person. I have learned that when you ask questions you not only improve yourself but you are able to improve your surroundings with the knowledge that you gain. I have learned to be open minded and accepting about all most everything in life because only then will the community be able to grow stronger. Throughout my college experience I have learned to never be afraid to show who you are and be unique. There is no need for every person to be the same because then as a community there is no opportunity for enhancement because everyone will think and behave the same.

Jenae

While I been away at school i have experience alot of things in life. No parents or any one telling you that you cant have or do this. I learned how to take care of my responsibilities on my own and provide a roof an food for me. I also learned how to go to school an play ball to maintain a gpa over 2.0. Its be very valuable to attend school for me because I am trying to go for forensic science and become something in life an in this society today a diploma wont make much progress as if i go to school for a bacholars or masters degree. So here are the reasons for attending college and why its valuable to attend school.

Avery

As a Virginia Commonwealth Univerisity student entering my junior year at this school there are many valuable experiences I have had while attending. When I first arrived at the school as a freshman two years ago I was really hesitant about the environment I was about to get involved in. The school is very diverse and meeting new people within just those few years was a great experience. I met students that were willing to help and guide me through the process of college. The academic programs are very helpful because they allow you to choose what classes you will need to take to graduate and be successful in your career. As a mass communications student I have become very acquainted with the extra-curricular programs and organizations to where I am now involved in so many that I enjoy working with. Those programs range from National Association of the Advancement of Colored People to coordinating events with the Activities Programming Board for all students to be apart of. Overall being a college student is an amazing experience because you meet new people, form life-time relationships and get a great education all at the same time.

Amber

Groups of diverse students are caught wondering around campus wondering what it is they want to do. Whether if its deciding on making a quick trip to Shafer to grab a bite to eat, going downtown to the medical campus to visit a friend, or taking a hike down to the river and watch the sunset, we are all faced with decisions. Lets not forget, making a trip to the library to cram for that quiz your professor just so happened to metion at the end of class on a friday afternoon. Your probably 8 out 10 students who tuned him out, but you were easily reminded by the emails you received all screaming for the notes missed in class and what the quiz would be on. Whichever category you may fall in, VCU has taught me that you will be in a plethora of situations. You will face multiple decisons that you will have to make hastily because time is everything and you shouldnt let it slip away . You will also meet all different types of people, but at the end of the day everyone finds a way to come together, making VCU the most valuable to me.

Mayah

I have learned from my college experience to be more outgoing than I was. Before I got to college I was quiet and reserved. My college experience has helped me to step outside my comfort zone and to be more open to making new friends and meeting new people. Living away from my family has made me grow up and really take responsibilty for myself. I definitely made that transition from teen to adult.

Jess

College has taught me a lot of valuable lessons, the most important being responsibility. In college no one will force you to do anything and it is ultimately up to you to do everything that is necessary. When I first entered college I was struggling with financial issues and could not focus on my school work. Because of this my grades dropped horribly and I could only blame myself. After taking some time off school to get the money necessary to attend without any problems I have done much better and made the presidents list during the spring 2010 semester.

Shelby

I have gotten a lot out of my college experiencel; the most valuable of which is my new-found independence. I relied on my parents the majority of my life to take care of me. I never made a single doctors appointment on my own. Pre-college, I couldn't even order a pizza by myself. I expected my parents to do everything for me. As soon as I got to college, I learned that I had to take care of myself, and be responsible. Due to my illness (Multiple Sclerosis) I have a lot more things to take care of than the average college student. From my college experience, I've learned to make my own appointments, and take care of myself properly- without the help of my parents. I do ask for help from time-to-time, but I definitely have learned how to avoid it. I think learning responsibility is one of the most valuable lessons that college can teach someone.

Joshua

The experience that I got by going to college is the best thing that i could of done. I learned something that i thought i could not do and i can use it for the rest of my life. By attend my class i have gained something they other people to not know i can use the knowledge that i learned and take it for the rest of my life and i am so happy that i attended my school.

Andrew

All your life, you search for that one special thing that brings out the best in you, makes you happy and gives you a purpose to live. Ever since I was a child, whether it was drawing with markers or painting my room, I have known my heart is set in design. Going into Interior Design at college is the best decision I have ever made. To me, I am not going to school. I am going to learn about and practice what I love to do. I want to attain everything I can so I can venture out and share my knowledge with the world. I want to help people see their dreams of creating a home, a restaurant, or their own small business come true. The relationships with professors and students also has enriched my education. Working among current and future designers has given me the chance to experience life after school while still being a safe and comfortable place to learn and make mistakes. College has given me the chance to see the full potential of the man I can become and has only inspired me to push myself to be the best I can be.

Alphonso

I have learned a lot about the "college life." I haven't had too much a hard time being away from home and I'm not too far away. I have met some really cool people, from here in the U.S. and all over the world. Classes have been a new experience for me. Not as much school work, except for math and english, but a lot of reading and studying needed. I'm a pretty good student and can get down to business when needed. Though there are peole around doing all kinds of things I keep focus on my learning. The cost isn't too bad but I would love to get this scholarship and others so I can further my education. There are many other schools but I wouldn't have had my first year anywhere else but Virginia Commonwealth University.

Tamara

Before attending Virginia Commonwealth University, the type of people I was aquainted with or surrounded myself with, were never that different from myself. At VCU there are so many people different from me from all over the world, and I have been fortunate enough to meet these people. I have learned so many things from my new found friends, and gained so many new perspectives on life.

Kimberly

College is different for everyone, for some it?s easier than high school, for others it isn?t. I?m kind of in between. Overall General Ed work isn?t that hard; Take notes in class, read the material, and study when there is a test coming up. What was a challenge for me were the numerous art projects and the stress that follows being a college freshman. My struggles with depression were the main focus in college and it often impaired me. From going through it all, I learned that I need to try separating my personal stresses from my schoolwork, because those really made my grades suffer. But since then I have prioritized more of my life and my art skills have improved greatly. I still know next to nothing after my first year of college, but I really look forward to learning much more and growing in the process.

Corey

I have gained so much during my first year in college, and it has changed my perception altogether. When I arrived here for the first time I was very naive, living the same way for so long blinded me from seeing many things. I had such a high view of myself, which isn't bad, unless you let if prevent you from doing new things as I did. I was scared to try new things in fear failing and tarnishing my self-proclaimed image. College, in short, humbled me. The experienced I've had here have helped me to realize that we are all trying to do the same thing, better ourselves, and sometimes we mess up. I now feel good about myself for what I've done, knowing that something is always to be learned. I have a greater appreciation for the time that I spend with friends and family. Most of all, I feel better about myself and what I can accomplish. I have more faith in myself because of all of the things that I've done, that at the time were seemingly impossible!

Heather

Attending VCU has altered my original perception of college life. Better known for it's art school than the sciences, VCU encourages students to accept themselves and to embelish on our natural strengths and talents. I have made many friends here and have experienced cultures I never had before through the amazing food and restaurant community, the artists and their galleries, music and small concert halls and recreational acitivity. I've discovered and experienced city life, learning to ride a bike everyday and taking public transportation. My political views have wavered between different beliefs because the residents and the students here are so passionate in what they believe in, it can be hard for an outsider to choose just one side. I've become an avid runner and embrace the moments of exploration and relaxation along the James River, where you will always see a familiar face. I've volunteered and improved the lives of people and animals alike. VCU aided in my development into the strong, healthy and driven person I am today through my experiences not just inside the classroom, but outside as well.

Courtney

Thus far in my college experiance I have learned many valueable things. I have learned how to manage my time wisely and efficently in order to get what I need to get done finished. College has also taught me more about myself as a person too. I have learned better study habits that I wish I would have developed in highschool. I have also learned to branch out of my shell and meet new people. By learning this, I have met some of the greatest people that are now a good part of my life. College is such an awsome experience that everyone should have the opportunity to experience it. The major thing that has come from college for me is that I have become an adult and have experienced real life situations that have shaped my way of thinking for the better.

Shay

I've gotten a new sense of independence. College has been valueable to attend becuase I feel like at the end I'll be a more well rounded person and have gained so much more than I would've expected. The vibe from college is different than high school and I like that. i like that everyone there is mature and more adultlike whereas high school, just seems like a bunch of kids.

Elizabeth

When I decided to attend VCU, it was primarily because I had been accepted into one of the best Nursing programs in Virginia. Little did I know that this school would open my eyes to much more than just a top-rated Nursing school. Virginia Commonwealth University is full of diversity, hospitality, and brilliance found in forms other than just a great GPA. Known for its fantastic Art program, VCU also thrives in students pursuing degrees in Psychology, Medicine, Teaching, and Business. The diversity of programs offered also brings an assortment of students, having different characteristics and skills waiting to be developed. During my two semesters at VCU, I made more valuable friends of all different ages and backgrounds, including alumni and faculty, than I have ever made. Although living in the dorm was not one of my favorite parts of living on campus, it forced me to go beyond my social barriers and meet freshman just like me. The Nursing program is a large workload, but also carries its advantages such as being taught by the Dean of Nursing and making connections with other nursing students. I love VCU for everything that it is, not just the Nursing school.