Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Top Questions

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

caroline

As a high school senior, I was very worried about picking the right school. Or so I thought. Really though, I was most concerned with picking a school that is well-known and socially acceptable to attend. I was so worried about going somewhere prestigeous and well-known because I was worried people would think I wasn't smart enough for certain places unless I went there. So I picked VT. It's huge, well-known and has good academic standing. Now that I am here, I realize that I would be better off at a smaller school where I could relate to people and professors more on a one-to-one basis rather than in a class of 500 or 3000. I wish I had not been so worried about going to a school that everyone knew and respected. I wish I had worried more about what I specifically wanted in my four years of college and then I would not be dealing with the possibility of a trasnfer. Lastly, I wish I had researched my field of interest more and made sure I attended a school with everything I wanted and needed or might need in the future.

Janel

I would tell my high school self to spend as much time with my friends as possible during high school. Yet to keep my same high gpa in order to get into Virginia Tech. When going off to college sometimes you start to really appreciate your friends from home and wish that you had more time to spend with them. Once you go off to school you soon start to realize how most of the stuff you learn in highschool wont help you when you get to college. For most students high school is easy and you would never have to stay up late to finish that assignment so when it happens in college you are taken aback by the enormous course load. Also, although contradictory to my first statement i would have worked harder in the classes that i knew could transfer into college so i could be exempt from certain classes giving me room for error if needed. I woud also spend more time with my parents because i took the time spent with them for granted. Lastly, i would involve myself with more extra-curricular activities because you dont always have the time in college.

Kyryl

If you are signing up for electives that you just want to take for fun but necessarily try in them visit koofers.com to pick the easy class. Some electives though fun take up a lot time and if you already have a good workload and not enjoying additional workload form the elective don't take it. Really, use koofers for everything. You can look up the professor ratings and average GPA to pick easy professors for the classes that you don’t care about. Use daremenot.com to input the class CRN during class registration and this website will send a txt to your phone if spot opens up. Enjoy your first year at college cause it will be your easiest one, but also remember that if it's easy that means that it is an easy A, so don't slack when you are given something that is essentially a GPA booster. College is a place to experiment, but don't try something that there might not be coming back from. DO NOT CHEAT! It varies from professor to professor but sometimes and unconscious look-over at your partners paper may cost you 4 years of your life.

Megan

Knowing everything that I know now about college life, I would advice myself to take more risks. I came into college as an intimidated freshman. I should have seized the day and been more outgoing. I would tell myself that college is packed full of opportunities that will never be presented again, so live it up while I can! I’d tell myself that college is going to be a blast, and dorm life really isn’t that bad. I would advise myself to not put off studying, because in college you cannot succeed without time management. I’d tell myself that while my family misses me, they are incredibly proud of all my accomplishments and everything that I will accomplish in the future at college. I would advise myself to seek help when I need it. This could be from my professors, who sometimes give extra credit for attending office hours; or simply from a friend in a class with me. Seeking help is humbling but can be very helpful. I’d tell myself to help others as much as possible, with schoolwork, community service projects, and in any other way I can.

Victoria

Benjamin Franklin had once shared to the world his secret to success. He said, “Never leave that till tomorrow which you can do today.” But some failed to listen. Maybe it was laziness, the dread of the task, or the constant empty promises to myself that “I’ll do it eventually.” Sometimes the choice to have "fun" pushed me further away from my ambitions. Whatever the excuse was, I even knew deep down that they did not justify for my procrastination. But I learned from my poor time management skills. It was better to have finished my assignments than to regret that I allowed everything to pile up. In the end, it was better to ace an exam than to get drunk with friends. In college, we are suddenly given the complete independence from our parents that we have always hoped for. We’re adults now. But with adulthood comes responsibilities, we must never forget about them and keep our priorities in check. It’s important that we understand what Benjamin Franklin was trying to tell us because if we don’t try hard enough we won’t be able to survive the transition from high school to college unharmed.

Amanda

Going through the ups and downs of high school with difficult AP classes, balancing friends and trying to get into college really taught me some things. First off, self, your GPA really isn't all that. If you want to get to the really prestigious schools, you need more than a good SAT score. They want people that are well rounded, that can really handle a plate full of anything that anyone can throw at them and still come out sane. That means they also want active people, not people that coop themselves in the room all day doing just homework. People that can do work AND still have a social life. People that can lead. People that care about the community. That can handle not just the mainstream classes, but college level ones as well and still get A's and B's. Another tip: get used to making friends. More than likely, you're not going to go to the same college as your friends in high school. It may even be in another city or state altogether! So you also need to learn how to make new friends fast or college won't be so fun.

Jessica

Making the transition from high school to college can be a scary because there is so much unknown; however, it is also one of the most exciting times of your life. There are a few key pieces of advice I wish I had known that would have helped make my transition much easier. First off, feeling homesick is normal, and it is a good idea to plan a trip home somewhere between 6-7 weeks after school starts. You don’t want to hurry home right away, but pushing it too long can be just as unhealthy. Those first weeks at school everyone is new and in the same position as you, so take this time to be outgoing and get involved in clubs and activities right away. This is the best time to meet new people and make new friends. Lastly, do not study or do homework in your room no matter what you tell yourself, it never works out. It is truly amazing how much more work you will get done in a study lounge, or the library. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy your freshman year of college, because it’s over before you know it!

Jamie

I would prepare myself for a tougher level of learning. I would tell myself to practice study habits and be proactive. I need to be more open and outgoing, reaching out to meet new people. I should prepare myself for the responsibilty of being on my own and making big decisions for myself. I would also tell myself to stay confident and active to avoid stress and health issues. Last, I would say that I need to stay on top of scholarships, so I could get as much money as I can to pay for my education.

Heather

The transistion to college is only as hard as you make it. It's not the easiest thing in the world, you'll cry, you'dd laugh, you'll worry and you won't get some sleep some nights but in the end it's worth it. The people you will meet and the classes you will take will further your knowledge and ideas of others. You will learn to love you life for all that it's worth, and you will forever cherish and remember the 4 years you spent here.

Rachel

One of the most valueable things I have gotten out of my college experience thus far is perspective. I have always lived within a small community where many people share the same values and viewpoints, so coming into a place where there are so many different people with different ideals was a little scary for me. However, upon seeing the way other people approach problems and share their culture, I have realized that understanding the views of others is one of the most important and necessary things a college student can learn. Through understanding this, I have been able to apply the knowledge that I have learned from others to the way I approach my own life, leading to a greater understanding of the world around me, whether that is in class or outside of it.

Lindsey

After high school I didn’t really think I would continue on to college, it was only after getting my first real job in a law firm that I realized how important it was to have a degree. Ever though I had the most seniority at my firm, I was turned down to grow further in my position due to not having any college. I was really upset by that. I soon after began my AA degree and paralegal certificate. Since completing that program I have moved onto my BA. I am determined to get to the top and college is the road that will get me there. Since completing my AA I have truely grown as a person as well. I thought I already knew it all, but I now see I still have so much to learn. I want to continue to learn and grow after my BA. I have my eyes set on a JD and MBA from Seattle U and I know I will get there.

Tricia

My first year and a half of college has been amazing. The school spirit at Virginia Tech is incredible, and the students i am surrounded with make me want to become a better person. The students who go to my school are all very smart and forward thinking. Being in this enviroment makes me want to give my expiriene my all, and get everything out of my time here that I can. I have a lot of goals for this semester, to get the most out of all my college has to offer, and a scholorship would be incredibly helpful in achieving those goals.

Kelsey

College has definitely made me a a more intelligent person, but more importantly than that it has made me a better person. I have been exposed to so many different kinds of people and different cultures that I am now a more well rounded person. I never thought that living in the dorm rooms and having a roommate would make me a better friend, but it definately has. I am more courteous to others because I know how it feels to be treated poorly just because someone else had a bad day. In a sea of people who are so unlike me I managed to find those few friends that understand me and that I can trust when the going gets tough. College has also prepared me for my future and my career goals. I hope to be attending professional school upon graduation and the intense undergraduate program has prepared me at least in part for what I may experience as I continue to further my education.

Theresa

When I first came to Virginia Tech, I was not sure what to expect. Because I was a first generation student, my parents did not have much insight to give on what college was going to be like. This lack of knowledge allowed me to face challenges and decide what I should do on my own. A significant challenge I faced during my freshman year was transferring into my major, Interior Design. I had been told from the start that getting into this program would be difficult. After applying, the school would decide if they will interview you. Upon completion of the interview, the school finally decides if you are accepted to the program. The interview took place a week after applying. Luckily, the interview went very well and I felt optimistic about getting into the program. Several days later, I received an email with the good news. I had been accepted into the School of Architecture and Design. My determination to achieve my goals, even after a few setbacks, is why it has been valuable to attend Virginia Tech. It has taught me to face and overcome challenges.

Abi

I did not know it in highschool, but college has given me chances to grow beyond my expectations. In highschool, I relied heavily on my parents for my practically everything. In college however, you are thrown into this world without your parents to guide your every step. Sure, they are just a phonecall away, but they cannot manage your time, balance your habits, be there to control your spending. Suddenly it is all up to you. This is huge power you have just been given, and the way you grow depends on how you use that power. You can set aside time for studying, go to the gym regularly, maintain healthy eating habits, and budget your money; or you can turn into a wild animal led only by passions and impulses. Now not every has left you in the dust, college is a great environment to grow because you are surrounded by friends who are experiencing the same thing. Every decision you make affects your future, and college gives you a great opportunity to take advantage of the new power you have been given and use it to shape who you will become.

Colleen

Confidence in myself that never existed. Growing up with learning dysabilities I feared I wasn't smart enough for college. My first semester, I had an amazing English instructor. She opened my eyes to see potential. Since then, I excel in every class. My education can make a difference in others lives as well as my own. I helped students struggling with coarses, pass. College has shown me that I am meant to help others. I'm a Psychology major in addition to, human services and English. I hope that one day I am able to inspire children who have my learning problems, to not give up. The last two years I couldn't work due to major surgery; I felt that I lost everything I was. I lost my home and claimed bankruptcy. I battled with depression and self doubt. Attending college helped me realize that I am more than the material things in life. College saved me. I love school for the first time in my life. I'm excited for every class and all the information. I found myself. Education, self worth; that is what I will take with me and never lose.

Harwinder

My college experience has given me a new family and a chance to be the first one to go further in life. Most people go to college to pursue their educational dreams, have a little fun here and there, and graduate. I got something even more, I got a Hokie family. At Virginia Tech, I belong to a Hokie nation where I stand proud and tall knowing that my professors, fellow classmates, and friends support me on every level of my future. Coming from a broken down family, the Hokie family gave me moral, support, and a new beginning to live my life to the fullest and pursue my dreams. My college experience has been beyond what I ever thought. I can fully say, I have a family now and with this support, I can go anywhere with my life. This value only came from being what I am, a HOKIE...always and forever.

Taylor

I have grown up preparing for college by striving for good grades, volunteering, and being involved in the activities at my high school. Now that I am in college I don't have to do those things, but I want to. My true identity has arised. I don't have my mom making decisions for me anymore. I am the one deciding which classes I want to take. I am the one deciding the activites I want to participate in. I am the one deciding who I want to be. Virginia Tech has turned me into a more independent individual capable of reasoning, who wants to become more involved in the community. Virginia Tech helps me realize that college is an important aspect to life because it shapes us students into the professionals that we dreamed of growing into. The things I learn inside and outside of the class such as orginization and world issues can be applied to real life situations. These are the things that will stay with me for my whole life as well as useable in my workplace.

Erin

I am from Virginia Beach, which means Virginia Tech is a nice long 5 hour drive away. After high school, I really wanted to be off on my own and be free to do things my own way without having my parents looking over my shoulder all the time. College, this college, has really given me that opportunity. College has really taught me how to handle myself and now I have the chance to be my own person. College has introduced me to new challenges and it is up to me how to deal with them. Not only am I finding my own way in life, I have made some great friends along the way. Once you are out of the childish drama of high school, you can really find great people to surround yourself with. College is a whole new playing field and full of much more mature people. Virginia Tech has been the best thing for me and I love being to say I am a part of its community.

Elizabeth

While it has been a challenge, my experience in college has been like none other, an experience of a lifetime! It has been an exciting 7 years for me as I never thought I could get this far and get into a great University. The college experience I've had for the past years has given me a wider view of what it is that I want to pursue, knowledge of topics that I would not have picked up if I were not in school. It has opened up my mind to explore and learn new things and to focus to do my best for the end results. My college degree and the knowledge i have gained while attending is worth so much because I know that the combination of both is the key that will open so many doors for me after I have graduated.

Sandra

Among other colIege experiences, I have learned the meaning of team work and communication skills. Obtaining this knowledge has been of great value to me, employers seek candidates with the ability to work in groups and the talent to listen, write, and communicate in an effective manner. This experience has improved my self-esteem and ability to interact with co-workers and class-mates in a professional and respectful manner. I still have a lot more to learn, so attending college will keep being an activity in my life for a while.

Andrea

From my college experience, I have gotten the credentials I needed to enter a specific work field and have learned skills that will help me throughout my career. The skills I have learned are experience and knowledge with how to accomplishing assignments, how to communicate with others, and how to manage time. The skill of accomplishing assignments will continue to help me in my career as I try to follow the instructions from my managers. The skill of communicating with others will help me in my career as I communicate with customers, co-workers, and managers. The skill of managing time will help me in my career as I prioritize and work through my assigned jobs. Most importantly, however, I can obtain the credentials I need to work in the field I want to where if I did not go to college I could not. For these reasons, it has been valuable for me to attend college.

Jessica

During my college experience, I have not only gained an enormous amount of knowledge from my studies, but I have gained confidence as a person. I feel that I have gained skills and values that have helped me grow and become an independent and confident individual. For the first time, I feel genuinely challenged by my studies and am pushed to make my best better. The experiences I have had thusfar have made me a better person and I feel that if I hadn't gone to college, this better, more mature part of me would never have developed.

HWEE

My major is civil engineering. I believe that I had learned skills and knowledge that can be used to help other people. For example, these knowldege are related to construction and city development. Therefore, these skill can be used to help developing countries. I also leanred how to live my life with other people. For example, I learned that the happiness comes when I help other people.

Vanessa

I have learned that working hard is what gets you the results you want because of college. I've become much more responsible with a strong head on my shoulder. When I look at my GPA I realized that college is truly something one must experience to become a well rounded individual. It has valuable to attend because only college has taught me to depend on my self. It also helped me realize that only I can get myself to where you would like to be.

Natalie

Throughout my first semester of studying at Virginia Tech, I have learned numerous life lessons that I would probably never learn if I hadn't chosen to go to college. I have learned that Facebook is not real life. In order for students to be successful, they must have a strong willpower to resist the temptation of social networking. For me, it was extremely easy to run to my laptop and check for page notifications rather than sit down and crack the books open. I struggled with this situation quite often during the first few weeks of classes, but I eventually learned that the best method is simply to avoid going on Facebook at all. Another concept I have learned from college is a sense of spirit and self-worth. In other words, I have learned how to be proud of my school and of my personal accomplishments. I am still working on the skills neccessary to become more confident, but I know the students and faculty of Virginia Tech will help me along the way. That is the most valuable thing I have gained at Tech--a family. And it's all I could ever ask for.

Margaret

Out of my college experience, I have gained self confience academically and socially. Attending Tech has been valuable to me because of the educational and leadership experience. The most valuable part of Tech, to me, is the Corps of Cadets that I am a part of. Being a cadet gives me leadership experience and the oppertunity to serve the United States as a military officer upon graduation, while giving me the full benefits of Tech's academic programs.

Catherine

I would have never learned how to deal with so many different personality types and distinct backgrounds if I had not attended Virginia Tech. Learning to work with a variety of different people is a good life skill one needs in any job in the future, and I feel I have had a lot of experience working with groups and other people different from me. I will be better prepared for the working world after my experience at Tech.

Leydi

I got my associates degree which would make me the first college graduate from my family. I learned how college works which i had a very different view from when I started attending to when I graduated on May 2009. Love the experience and very happy with the help and my diploma. Now I am continuating with my education trying to pursue a Bachelors degree in Criminal Justice.

Kathy

College has taught me how to be independent, responsible, organized, and goal-oriented. At the same time, I have also learned a lot of life experiences that I am very grateful for. Meeting people from all over the world in Virginia Tech's large campus environment exposed me to a more realistic setting instead of one that is focused around my family. I have made many friends at Tech, some that I can see as being lifelong and others as acquaintances but we are all a part of the big welcoming Tech Alumni Family. Attending Tech has allowed me to grow from a being just a good student to a young professional who is motivated to achieve career and further education goals.

Timothy

Out of my college experience, I have gotten a stronger sense of independence and responsibility. In college, no one is here to hold your hand or walk you through everything. A lot of college is all on you. Sure, there are advisors and professors to help you, but in reality, what you get out of college depends on what you put into it. I have found myself having more responsibilities regarding my education and my life. These skills will become valuable in the future after college. Without attending Virginia Tech, I feel like I would be t a serious disadvantage in the real world.

Patrick

College has given me an enormous sense of independence and self responsibility. Really being on my own made me realize a lot about myself and what I was capable of. I had to be responsible for myself and learn to balance everything. Between school, having a part time job, and my social life, I was busy and was slowly learning how to balance my large workload. I have learned so much about myself in just two years in college. I've had my fair share of awful days. I've cried from being so overwhelmed with everything. But I realized what I was capabe of and simply got back up when school and life in general knocked me down. I know this is going to be so helpful and valuable to me later in my life. I know that I should only worry about things I can control, and to give my best in everything is all I can ask of myself. I know that the skills I've learned in college will stay with me way beyond college and I'll retain them in all my future endeavors.

Rosemary

I have grown as a person because of my college experience and that is something I truely value and cherish. Before enrolling I felt trapped and stuck, I didn't know what I wanted to do with my life, and I felt as if time was going to fly by and I was going to be stuck in the same spot that I was in for the rest of my life. That realization scared me and the fear motivated me to move forward with myself as a person. Every mentor I've had has told me the same thing year after year, "School is everything and without it you will go nowhere." That piece of advise rang in my ears each time I felt stuck in a moment of despair and stress while I was going through the college anxiety. My mentors were right and to chose to continue my education was the best decision I have ever made. I've made my self-discovery, I value myself more now than I ever did before, and I am determined to maintain that value.

Erin

I've discovered that networking is one of, if not the most, important aspect at Virginia Tech. The networking I do now will help me greatly in the future in areas like job hunting. It's a known fact that "Hokies hire Hokies." Meet as many people as possible when you first get to college - these people could open so many doors for you. Getting involved is another huge aspect at Virginia Tech. The more involved you are, the more you learn about the school, other people and yourself. Virginia Tech is all about "Discovery", (just watch our commercial). We're always researching and looking for new ideas. Tech isn't only about discovering new ideas and technologies but it's about discovering oneself. At Virginia Tech there are more groups and ways to get involved than anyone could imagine. There's something here for everyone which allows each person here to find what it is they're passionate about so that they can pursue it. Virginia Tech is also a very tight-knit community so everyone in Blacksburg is passionate about this university and passionate about seeing its students succeed. This makes for an excellent learning and growing environment.

Hannah

Although I have only been at Virginia Tech for two summer sessions and the fall semester, I have already grown so much as a student, a designer and as an individual. Virginia Tech has given me a strong sense of independance and is allowing me to achieve my dream of becoming an industrial designer. In my opinion a college degree is almost a necessity in today's economy. Virginia Tech is allowing me to better my life and doing so in a beautiful environment under highly acclaimed proffessor's. I know that when I look back on my college years when I am older I will have great memories of learning, growing, and finding myself.

Adrianne

I have been accepted to Savannah College of Arts and Design. I decided I wanted my major to be Fashion design. I chose Fashion design because I want to be able to make clothes for people that are my size. I moved into my dorm room on September 10 and I started classes on September 13. On the first day of being at Scad my roommate and I made new friends and we got to decorate our room. Unfortunately I had to leave scad after a week because I had a 7000 dollar defecit in my financial aid. Even though I only got to stay for a week and, attend two classes i really enjoyed my time there. I made new friends and met most of my instructors and some of the shuttle bus drivers. I learned my way around the school and went to some of the on campus events. Because of my condition (Osteogenesis Imperfecta) when I was in elementary, middle, and high school I needed a para pro. So now that im old enough, I decided that I could go to college by myself, so being at Scad I felt really independent and mature. I loved it!!!!!!!!!!!

Hannah

My college experience was honestly wonderful. Although the college I chose was only about thirty minutes away from where I grew up, I felt like I was in a different world. Southwest Virginia is very conservative, especially my hometown. However, Virginia Tech is a liberal, open-minded school with students and faculty from literally all over the world. I have met people from all backgrounds, religions, and lifestyles and been able to truely respect and learn from different cultures. One thing the Virginia Tech students and the community have in common is the love for the college. This love grew even more so after the tragedies our campus suffered. The horrific shootings and other events sadly that have taken place at our school have helped our school grow closer and prevail through unspeakable disasters. Watching the community rebuild after the events helped me solidify my career path. I am choosing to attend graduate school to obtain a masters in Social Work planning to work in Disaster Mental Health. I have been inspired by Virginia Tech in many ways and sincerely cannot think of a better college experience.

Heather

The diverse friendly atmosphere at my university has helped me open my mind and find what I want to do with my life, now I have a direction and goals for my life. Now I know what I want with my life and I am able to focus on achieving my goals.

Christina

The very first time I set foot on Virginia Tech's campus I was awestruck. The campus itself is laid out beautifully and each and every person, no matter where they are from, agrees. I was shocked at the amount of willing students, faculty, and alumni to offer help with directions. While in the bookstore I ran into a man that was from the class of 1959; he told me of his experiences in school and now that he was an alumni. I found that I was admiring him and wanted to have all of those experiences myself. Just being on the campus gave me a sense of pride and wellbeing. Virginia Tech has not disappointed me at all! The school has given me knowledge on an academic level that will help me with my future career, but it has also granted me social experiences that I am forever grateful for. Thus far, I have had one of the greatest experiences of my life. Deciding to attend VT was one of the best decisions I have ever made. The only thing I can tell people is that the "Hokie Nation" cannot be described, it must be experienced.

Anayis

College has presented me with valuable tools and opportunities in furthering my personal and academic pursuits; it has also been an instrumental part of my growth as an individual. My first semester was difficult as I tried adjusting to a new environment. I noticed my grades began to suffer and I became increasingly discontent. For a while, I explored different options and eventually, with the help and support of my teachers and counselors, I found my niche-which was of utmost importance. Having developed an interest in writing, I decided to pursue English as a career. College allowed me to excel in all areas, academic and otherwise; it opened my eyes to a world of possibilities. So far, I’ve had a very positive college experience which is why I’ve decided to transfer to UC Berkeley and continue with the progress I’ve made. Before college, I was lost, confused, and unsure of myself. But now, I’m immensely ambitious, self-aware, and driven and I place education as my top priority. I’m glad I challenged myself academically and engaged in on-campus activities (tutoring, scholars program, Armenian club) for I’m now exceedingly well-rounded.

Catherine

Before college, I attended numerous elementary schools, then middle school and high school. I moved around a lot because ofmy parents' jobs, their divorce, and because of academic opportunity. Virginia Tech caught my eye when I would watch college football in the fall when I was in middle school. I looked into its student life, academic programs, the location, and I fell in love. I applied during my senior year of high school and it was the first school that I was accepted to--which was the only sign that I needed that Virginia Tech was definitely the school for me. Since then, I have helped with the Residence Hall Federation both years, and I have recently been chosen as a Hokie Ambassador. I live for Virginia Tech and it has changed my life. I have finally found myself and I have finally found my home.

Kayla

Attending college has been the best decision that I have made. I am learning so much in my classes as well as learning things about myself. My school gave me the opportunity to study abroad in Switzerland for 4 months and it was one of the most educational/self-realization experiences I have had. I got to travel, learn, and witness different cultures first hand. I also grew as a person, more accepting and more open. It has provided me with several networking opportunities as well as friendships that will last for a lifetime.

Samantha

I orginally came from ODU and the classes there weren't challeging enough. When I came to VT last semster I found a challegning school with a heart to boot. Everyone here is supportive and strong. I feel like a true hokie and i would never change that for anything in the world. The teacers and professors here are very supportive and will help you if you ever have any problem. I can graduate from this school knowing i got a worthwhile education that i can use in the real world; and that's saying a lot compared to other schools i've seen. I AM A PROUD HOKIE! (I messed up on one of the strongly diagree/agree parts all the strongly diagrees are supposed to be strongly agrees and same with the disagrees to agrees)

Marco

I have learned soo much about my self and other people. I can see how other people have been raised and can appreciate how fortunate I am to have the parents i have. You really learn the different types of people there are in this world.

hasmik

I love my college and i think it is the best. Has a lot of good professors who are knowledgable. I am finishing my Sociology major at my college and this college helped me and the professors helped me go through tough times and understanding the material. My college helped me go through my english courses, which i was haveing problems, because i was new in US and didn't know pretty much about the college, and the language, so the teachers and my college had a very huge place in my life and my word dictionary has become better and better each year. Every college or school is valuable to attend, because they are there to give you knowledge either you take it or not, but they are there and they are very valuable and me as a student value their presence in our society.

Samantha

From my college experience thus far I have learned how to be independent and responsible and to take charge of my own life. College is all about personal drive and personal ambition. Teachers? no longer care if you come to class, do you work, or even if you pass. Therefore, the drive to succeed has to come from within. As a student you have to want to succeed, you have to want to do well and you have to want to make something of your life, no one is going to do it for you. Learning this lesson has been so crucial to my future because in life you get out what you put in, and your success depends on your hard work and dedication to your goal. In addition, college has taught me the importance of community. Virginia Tech remains one of the tightest communities I have ever been a part of. Everyone is so nice and friendly and willing to help out. No matter where life takes me I know I can always count on this community for love and support, which is a simply amazing feeling.

Ashley

THe advice I would give myself is to know before hand what you want to do in the future and what impact you want to have on the world. Also dont slack off in the beginning, make sure you do the best you can for your four years and make positive connections with your professors from the start.

Julia

Relax; enjoy high school's laid-back course load and Mom's home-cooked lasagna; hang out with your little sister more; laugh at your Dad's silly jokes and-every once in a while-listen to his wise financial advice that you'll be wishing for later. These are just a few things I wish someone had told me after high-school graduation and before I'd hopped into that minivan filled with more stuff than three dorm rooms could accomodate. Despite the fact that most high-schoolers "can't wait" to escape their parents reign and experiment with that scary entity called Life, college is a huge wake-up call and a giant reminder of your newly acquired independence. Did you forget to set your alarm and missed your first Biochemistry exam? Mom's not around to write you a hastily scribbled absence note, and your professor won't be swayed by mumbled excuses. For me, college was the first time I truly took care of myself without relying on another human being. This experience is both terrifying and exhilarating, yet undoubtedly molds you into the adult who eventually walks across the stage and accepts that college degree.

Melissa

Hey there. I know you might be nervous right now- or maybe just excited. That is all normal. Keep that energy with you, and throw it into your new college life. Find a club and stick with it. Actively seek opportunities to get involved. Do not be afraid to take chances. Open yourself up to connect with people. Work to keep your connections alive. Do not get so caught up in your own transition that you forget to volunteer. Giving back with feel good, and is a great way to learn about the community around your college. Believe your professors when they tell you they want to talk to you. Do not let a course go by where you do not introduce yourself during office hours. Learning happens in and out of the classroom. Do your work and hold on to the things that really move you. Write them down; keep track of them somewhere. Make regular appointments with your advisor or a professor to talk about your interests. Be career-focused without being career-obsessed. Connect your interests with 'real-world' work, and volunteer or intern to try that work. But most of all, enjoy being a student.

Hanna

You will not believe me now, but you will. College is a time warp, I swear. Remember how high school flew by? College is like that, but better. Exponentially improved. Meeting all those people, going all those places, you will not have time to think about how quickly graduation approaches. The transition is nothing. You are all new, all strange, and all ready to be where you want to be. Do not wait for others to always reach out to you, make your own connections. Do yourself a favor and do not worry about what others may think or say, because here?s the secret: it doesn?t matter. There will be plenty of times where you may doubt yourself and be unsure of what to do next. Think through everything and go with your gut, do not let these situations intimidate you, they will only help you in the long run. Follow your passions and smile more. Please wait to fall in love, you have so much to learn about yourself. But fall in love with life, embrace it. Open minds work best, you know. Where you are going, it has so much to offer. You?ve got this.