Wartburg College Top Questions

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

Emily

The biggest piece of advice I would give my high school self would be that it is perfectly fine to not know what you want to do. In high school, I was caught up in how I had envisioned my future. From the car I would own to the career I would hold, I had every ounce of my life planned. I entered into college, and my life did a back flip. I realized I no longer wanted to be a physical therapist, but on the other hand, I had no idea want I wanted to do because I had never considered an other professions. This made my transistion into college even harder and more stressful than it already was. To put it lightly, I was lost. Now, I am three months away from completing my first year of college, and I realized that somehow I ended up on the right track from me. College is an eye opener, and it changes your points of veiw on life. Be open to change, and be happy living in the unknown for a little while.

Juneah

Going to college has given me plenty of opportunities to learn and acknowledge my bad habits, strengths, weaknesses, and fears. It made me grow up from the immature qualitites that I possessed in high school. If I were to give my high school self a piece of advice, it would be to take advantage of the people who are in my life, and to get out of my own way. What held me back in my first year of college was my low confidence. It interefered with my performance in my courses where I am not strong in, and it held me back from so many opportunities. I guarantee that if I practice being more confident and stop fearing my own success, I will be much happier and mentally stronger in college. It is all about your mindset when it comes to being independent. Your mindset reflects on your actions. Having a strong mind allows you to defeat those obstacles and fears in college. Sometimes you have to just "do it" and do not be afraid to fail. College is all about making mistakes, but then learning from them and applying what you learned to your life.

Kamden

If I could give myself advice about college, I would tell myself to take more time to visit colleges and to be more open-minded on my college visits. When I started my college search, I had a few schools already picked and it was just a matter of narrowing down those schools to find the one that I wanted to attend the most. However, I think there were some really good schools that may have been a better fit for me that I never even took the time to look at because they weren't on my initial list. I would also tell myself to do a better job of making friends when I first got to school. I have always been quite introverted, and making new freinds has always been tough for me. However, I now realize how important a good group of firends is. I did make some friends, but I wish I had forced myself out of my comfort zone in order to make some more friends and to establish a good network of relationships in all sorts of different areas on campus.

Samantha

I would convince my younger self to push through the AP classes along with taking more diverse classes. Im would also convince her to have taken many more college level classes in order to meet some of the general education classes. Another thing that I wished I had known was that I needed to do a lot of volunteer work, sports, and many other extracurriculars ontop of having an impressive grade range. Another thing I would have told myself would have been to work a lot less and to save a lot more. The next thing I would tell myself is that I need to worry less about what I am doing and worry a little more about how to plan out my future a little bit more. Instead of going with the flow in my senior year, I would have planned somethings out all throughout high school. Lastly, I would tell myself not to be so harsh on myself and to work through problems a little more creatively.

Christina

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a senior in high school, I would tell her to take the college credit courses seriously. I would tell her to go through with the college tests to get credits for in when coming into college because it really helps. As a senior, I would tell myself to change my schedule and replace the easy classes with more challenging courses to better prepare me for college. The biggest advice I would give myself if I were in high school would be to prevent procrastination. College gives you a set date telling you when assignments are due. Seeing this in high school, I would procrasinate my work until it was close to the due date. In college, you will learn that it takes more than just one night to get your work done. You will find yourself sleep deprived if you continue to push your work off until the last minute.

Kerri

If I could talk to myself as a high school senior I would have a lot of important advice to give. First of all, I would say to get involved. Whether in music, athletics, or drama, there is a lot more free time in college and it is important to actively participate in a club or organization. For me, soccer was a way of having instant friends who I knew I could trust, and this took away an extreme amount of stress and anxiety. The second piece of advice would be to stay true to yourself and never forget your values or where you came from. There will be moments in college where you are pressured to do something against your morals because people are coming together from diverse backgrounds and communities. However, you are accountable for all of your actions and must remember what you have been taught your whole life. The third piece of advice is to apply yourself. After all, you are in college to learn and gain an education. Push yourself, study, and go to class (you are paying thousands of dollars for this purpose). Lastly have fun, because four years goes fast!

christopher

The advice I would give myself is to do more research on the school I pick and not to hesitate on asking questions about any concerns or issues. Furthermore I would tell myself to apply for more scholorships, and take more visits to different schools that have my major. In addtion I would tell myself that you will make mistakes no matter how you try to avoid them but the imporant thing is to learn from them and ask for help if needed.

Elizabeth

When I was in high school, I was extremely focused on my academics and activities that I hardly allowed myself to sit back and enjoy life. Because of this, my high school career flew by and I have few memories of my experiences. I continued to have this mindset through the majority of my first year at college as well. My advice to high school seniors is to get involved in as many activities as possible that may be of interest. It's important to strive for experiencing college rather than passing it. Experiences with on-campus programs and internships develop connections that could be helpful in the future. However, academics are vital to success at any institution. What also contributes to a meaningful college career is making connections with others. These experiences and connections can last a lifetime.

Jacob

My biggest piece of advice would be to get involved from the start in college and try to make as many friends and connections as possible. There are a number of outstanding groups and organizations in college, and it is very beneficial to join these groups because you will meet lifetime friends this way. Plus, it is a great way to connect with people in the workforce for future occupations. I would also advise myself to maintain a positive attitude throughout college and enjoy the time. It can be very easy for college students to become stressed and forget that college can be the best time of your life. It is important to balance schoolwork with your social life and enjoy time at school. Finally, I would advise myself to keep my options open at the beginning of my college career. It is not a requirement to know what field you want to study right away as a freshman. Therefore, it is beneficial to explore and find your true passion in life.

Justin

I would end up telling myself to quit slacking off and prepare for college homework so you will be prepared to work on homework for hours along with studying. I would inform myself that the life I have once known will soon be coming to an end as you are going to start a new journey, so mentally prepare for the first month of college. Be willing to accept change because your friends will no longer be by your side. Your parents will not be able to help you, and the environment around you will be totally different. Lastly, I would tell myself to work hard and get ahead of college while you can. Whether it is learning or when it comes to money.

Jesslyn

Don't worry about the cost of the education, if you know you will be getting a good education. Find a place that is the right fit for you. Even though it is hard to transition to college at first it does get better, but it does take time so be patient. Take tours of you potential schools and ask tons of questions to the student tour guide. The guides can tell you about personal experiences which give you a more realistic view of what the school is like.

Korbi

If I had the chance to go back into time, I would explain to my past self that college is a time to have fun and find yourself as a person. You should make sure to develop several friends that know a lot about Wartburg, so they can help you out with anything you don't know about it. Also make sure to volunteer for several things to meet new people and experience several new opportunites. Another thing I would tell myself, is that you might think you will have more free time, but you are going to have to study more and focus on your school work to do good. College is definitely a step up from high school, so make sure you are ready for it. You should also take advantage of your teacher's office hours if you have any questions because they are really friendly and love to help students. The last thing I would tell you, is that work takes up a lot of time, so expect the first semester or two to be a transition period for yourself. Good luck and you can do it!

Elisa

If I could advise my high school self, I would probably suggest that I retake the ACT to get a higher score, because I did not prepare very well the first time. I would also urge myself to take as many college-level for-credit courses as possible, so that I could save some time and money at the collegiate level. I would also reccomend that I figure out how much financial aid I could get to go to a state college, as they are drastically cheaper than the private college I now attend. I would probably also advise myself to think positively, because thoughts influence action, and while life is worthy of worry and full of stressors, a positive outlook on life can help to make the days go by smoother, healthier, and happier, and also because positivity is a more attractive quality to professors, employers, and friends. Likewise, positive actions can influence thoughts. Both are methods by which one may stave off depression and become a more social being, ready to take on the inconstancy that pervades every aspect of the life of a college student.

Steven

Take a year or two off and travel abroad. Do as many scholarships as you can. Get involed with a lot of different campus organizations asap. Dont be afraid to ask for help. Dont commit to a major becasue someone told you to. If you dont like the college after the first year transfer.

Holli

To my high school self: "Holli, don't worry. You can not change a thing by worrying. What has happened is done, and what is to come is only for God to know. Live in the moment and notice the small details. Do everything each day with absolute intention. Don't take your teachers for granted. They have known you for four years (sometimes even your whole life) and sometimes know you better than you know yourself. Listen to your parents. Accept their advice because soon you'll want/need it all the time. Learn to see people for who they really are. Give people second chances, because you know that there will be times in your life when you'll beg for one. Be thankful for something everyday. Be happy with what you have and the road you're on. Tell the ones that you love, you love them! Don't be afraid to hold back in anything - we weren't put on this earth to hide our talents. Lastly, trust in God. Believe that He will always guide you. No one in this world knows you better than He does. Give yourself up to Him, and love Him.

Megan

Knowing what I know now about college life, if I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself that the entire dynamic of college is completely different that that of high school. You are totally responsible for your education. Showing up to every class on time is important and if you miss a day, you need to talk to your professor to see what you missed because no teacher will go out of their way to make sure you know what you missed like they did in high school. It is your responsibility to complete all of your work on time. Almost all of the time, work is not accepted late and there are no excuses. When an assignment is due on Tuesday, it is due on Tuesday, there are no extentions. I would also tell myself to be prepared to do a lot of studying because classes in college move fairly quick. Instead of spending one whole week covering one chapter like they did in high school, it's one class covering one chapter. Lastly, I woud constantly tell myself that college is too expensive to just throw away.

Emma

College is a huge step in life. Everyone knows that. However, you need to prepare yourself more than you think. the transition will be hard! Not academically, necessarily, but emotionally. Being away from family and experiencing all these new things can really affect a person. Just one thing needs to be kept in mind: it will be okay. Even if you hate your major or hate your college or hate your friends it's okay. There are always options. Your major can change, you can transfer schools, you can even find new friends. It will be hard to deal with everything, but breathe and relax. The hardest part college not feeling right is finding out precisely what doesn't feel right. Everything is new, so how is one to know what new variable is making it difficult to love it at college? I'm still not sure myself how to figure it out, but focusing on the positive has helped my mind clear up and my eyes dry up. Keep your chin up through the rough times and remember it will be okay and it's okay to talk to your mom everyday.

Meghan

Meghan, Do not follow the crowd! It may seem difficult now, but being popular is not as great as it seems. When you are older, you will look back fondly on your times in high school; however, not on those times you were at parties, or chasing people who you didn't even like. Your best memories will be of those with your family, or of playing basketball. It will be the crazy times that you had with your sister that you remember, not the crazy times you had being drunk. You are better than that, Meghan. If I can give you one piece of advice, it would be to be yourself. Do not let anyone compromise your values and beliefs for the sake of popularity, because in the end, it all fades away, and you are left with yourself. Who do you want to be? Love, Your older self.

Meghan

Dear 17 year old Meghan, Everyone says that the real world is hard-- listen to them! I know that you have plans to leave home as soon as possible, gain indepence and finally make your own rules but you need to continue focus on your education. College life is what you make of it-- if you choose to let your education slip down on you priority list, your grades will reflect just that. You are smarter and stronger than you think. It is in you blood to always do your best-- never forget that! You will experience some of the hardest times during your college career; living on your own, affording rent and utilities, living in a big new city, and meeting new friends. If I could give you one single piece of advice it would be to keep working hard towards your dream-- as soon as you lose sight of your dream, you lose sight of your future. You are brave and you can and will suceed. Love, 22 year old Meghan

osvaldo

The experiences that I have been after college haven't been the best but they also haven't been the worst. I've had great experiences since I am a student athlete. I would give myself the advice of choosing carefully and focusing on the most important things that will get you to be successful in life. I would make sure they have a good program that has to do with your career. If you want to play a sport in college don't just focus on the sport but also on the major of the school. I would also look at the distance and cost of your school, they do make a difference in your life. I would also give myself the advice of becoming more independent and to not ne afraid of speaking your mind out to the world.

Hailey

Being a high school senior the advice I would give myself is to keep working hard in school, and just because it is senior year and there are exciting things happening. To keep focused on school and trying for scholarships, along with working hard in school. Work hard in the workplace and start saving money, once in college necessary items start to feel more and more expensive. The biggest word of advice I would've given to my high school self is to be yourself, embrace new experiences and new ideas and enjoy life. Don't let anybody stop you from following your own dreams.

Jessica

Now being a junior at Wartburg College, if I could go back in time and give myself some advice there are a few things that I would say. The first being trying to save as much money as possible throughout my high school career. There are many different expenses that one must afford while attending college such as groceries, rent, and tuition; every little penny I believe that I could have saved would have helped tremendously. The next piece of advice I would give myself would be to not take high school for granted. There were several missed opportunities, such as taking more college credited classes, that I didn't take advantage of that could have helped me out further down the road. The last little advice I would give myself would be to continue to be who I am. Don't forget about all the people who were supporting me throughout my high school career because they will continue to support you throughout your college career as well. Enjoy life as it is and don't take the life that has been give to you for granted!

Libby

Dear younger self,

Christopher

Since I did not do all that well in High School, I would tell myself to get out more. Then take ONE year to work, explore, and live some. Finally I would tell myself to go to college when I was younger and had more energy.

Jill

If I could go back and give my high school self some advice it would be, "Don't worry so much." Don't worry about what you are going to major in, whether or not you will make friends, will you like your roomate, how many times will I get lost. Yes, all of those things matter but I think that they will just fall into place. You don't need to have any special skills or knowledge. I've learned that things happen if and when they are supposed to. Don't force something to happen if it isn't ready to happen. All of your decisions will be made in the right time and manner for you and only you. Don't wory about what the guide books or stupid pamphlets tell you, they help, but do what is right for you.

Kailey

As a high school student I was very worried about the transition to high school. If I could give myself some advice on how to transition into college I would have a lot to say. First of all, I would say get to know people. Meet the people on your floor and get to know them, since you will be living with them all year long. Get to know the people in your classes because it will be helpful when you need help on your homework. Next, I would say don't stress too much over your homework, its a transition from high school to college, but in the end it will turn out okay. Don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it and when you need to--call home!!

Alexia

The first thing I would be sure to express to myself is that college is immensely better and easier than high school. For someone like me who hated high school and the drama that came with it, college was a breath of fresh air that I had been longing for. I'm not going to lie, the first three days were the hardest, but there's a lot of support that first week of freshmen orientation. My college purposely put me in a group of students who were like me which made making friends a breeze. I've also noticed that college students tend to be more open minded and accepting. It's the first time in your life when you can actually form your own opinion and voice it without feeling judged by your peers. I'd also recommend taking a light course load that first semester since the first months can be overwhelming and you're still trying to adjust to this new lifestyle. There will always be a time when balance will be hard, but if you pick the right people your group of friends will be there to support you during the bad and the good.

Johanna

As a high school I always tried to stay on task with my work, and maintaining a high GPA as well as having good grades. But from experiencing college I learned that in order to get something you must do it on time and by yourself, you cannot expect and wait for someone to do your tasks. I would give myself the advice of focusing on school a little bit more because as a senior I let a lot of my grades dropped for not focusing , now that I am in college I am far more focused and it is paying off because seeing good grades satisfies me and my mom. In high school there is no pressure of bills; those years are mainly to learn and get good grades now in college is more difficult because school is a big expense.

Jessa

If I could go back in time and talk to myself about how college really is, I would make sure to emphasize to stop stressing about which college and major to choose. For me, I believe any private college would have sufficed for my education. Taking the introductory courses in college really help decipher what you want to do with your life. I also would have told myself to take more college classes during my senior year to save money, and prepare for the science classes by taking Advanced and AP courses. On a different sort of note, I would have made sure that my past self used alternate ways to buy textbooks. Buying used books online would have saved me a lot of money that I could have used for other things. Lastly, one of the most important things I wish I could have told myself was that the transition to college is the hardest one that you will encounter at this point in your life. When homesickness sets in and you wish you could go home, just take a breath and relax. Enjoy the new experience as it comes, and let your mind adjust itself. Calm down.

Brianna

I would advise myself to not graduate early, and enjoy the last year of high school, because it is a lot harder of a transition than i thought. It would have been nice to get the summer to prepare for college. Even though i passed all of my classes going straight into Elgin Community College 3 days after I finished my last finals in high school. I would also encouage myself to join more clubs, such as the Honors Society or student council. I would advise to focus more on after school activities over working. Since i was working so much my senior year I didn't get to go to any of the athletic games and support my school by attending. I would want to go to more of the games and cheer on my school and show more school spirit, as I did when I was a cheerleader my freshman ans sophomore year. I guess the best advise I could give myself my senior year before transitioning to college would be to enjoy all the things high school has to offer while I still can.

Angie

Set yourself up. Those career ideas floating around in your head – they are attainable. Choose the most ambitious route; you can always change your mind and go a different direction later. Taking that ambitious route provides more doors to open.Set yourself up. Your health depends upon your choices. There are intellectual, physical, social, and spiritual choices to make. Attempt to be healthy. Set yourself up. Understand your brain is still growing and maturing. You may think you’re mature now, but you will mature a lot more during college. You’ll become more “You.”Set yourself up. There are resources at college; use them wisely. When you go to college, get to know your academic advisor. They are there to help you. If you need advise, they may be able to direct you, or at least direct you to the right person. Get to know your professors and be courteous. They are great resources as well as future references. Set yourself up. Nothing trumps hard work. It’s important to work hard to reach your goals. You’ve got the brains, but that’s not enough. You need to work hard and prioritize. Fun is easy to come by.

Kelsey

If I could go back to advise my high school senior self, the first tip I would give is to take as many online college courses as possible. Once you reach your freshman year, you find yourself facing many general education requirements that can be taken at most high schools online through a local community college. The high school pays for the tuition and the books and this also gives you a headstart on preparing for your college education. I took four college courses during my high school career, but wish I would have taken more. I would also tell myself to study more for the ACT test. Although I did well, I feel I could have done better if I would have studied more for it. Had I done better, I may have been able to receive a larger scholarship amount from Wartburg. Finally, I would advise myself to find more ways to explore my major, education, while I was in high school. I feel much more knowledgeable now than I did as a high school senior, and would have loved to hear this advice back then!

Jalisa

If I could go back to my senior year in High School, and knowing what I know now, I would courage myself to fill out and get more information about scholarships. Money is my biggest issue right now. Ever since I was a little girl I've been told that I had to go to college. And that going to college was the only way for me to not end up like majority of my peers are now, which is either struggling trying to raise baby(s) or seling illegal products on the corners just to survive. So, from that moment on I made school my main priority. I went to school everyday and on time. I went to all my classes and did all my work. I knew if I wanted to be successful and not live off of check to check, I had to workhard. I had to stay focus and not allow peer pressure to try in knock me off my game. I was determined to win. And I did. Here I am 19 year-old going into my second year in college, and the only thing that's trying to stop me now is $2,000.

Chelsea

Knowing what I know now about life in college, I would advise myself as a high school student to be prepared to be involved in many community and campus events. I would encourage myself to learn to manage my time wisely in order to get the most out of college including working toward success academically and full involvement in activities that interest me. I would also advise myself to be willing to connect with others and be open to try new things. College is the best time of life to try new things, have a variety of life experiences, and be involved in activities that are important to you. Being willing to try something you have always dreamed of doing can open opportunites for your future that you never thought possible. In a college environment there will be many students and professors to support you in that and have new adventures with you.

Delbert

GO TO SCHOOL!!! You don't know it now but you cant get anywhere without an education. Take you for instance you didn't apply yourself in high school because it was difficult. NO it was because I was lazy! In the military you got by because you were likable and people would do there work for you just by askinhg. Commendable but you only made it to mid level management. True your retirement pay has kept you from going bankrupt after you lost you job in the mass layoff. BUT if you had a degree you may not have been laid off, or perhaps you would have had a better career for a more stable company. As for school being "too hard" you have been able to make the Deans List every semester you've been in college. You completed your AAS with a 3.81 GPA. What I'm trying to say is with just a little work you could be great. So do it for yourself. I need the help.

Samantha

I would tell myself to not be concerened about the cost of the diffeerent insitutions and to just go where my heart and mind tell me too. When you walk onto a campus and fall in love with it and the atmospere, go with it! Also, I would suggest talking more to the students that are in your intended major on your visit days. They won't lie to you. They will tell you if the food sucks or what the nightlife is. Don't be afraid to get out of your comfort zone and talk to professors about doing some research with them or coming to the college's events before you make your decision. College really is better than High School and it is so much more fun in both a social and an acedemic aspect. Make sure you can be comfortable with the class sizes and don't sign yourself up for to many activities, but get involved. And lastly, have fun, make friends, explore your talents, and really work to get out of your comfort zone and have some experiences to last a lifetime.

Melanie

As a young girl, I attended band camp at Wartburg College and enjoyed staying on campus. When it came time to make those important college decisions during my senior year, I was very easygoing about the process. Instead of looking into programs offered at other colleges, I remembered my stay at Wartburg and thought, "Good enough." I applied early and was accepted. Band was the only extra activitiy I was interested in pursuing after high school, and that was offered at Wartburg. I auditioned for a scholarship and got it. That cinched my decision. Being offered a sum of cash to come play at Wartburg was a big attraction, and I was like a moth drawn to the flame. Last August, I packed my bags and headed to Waverly with bright eyes and big hopes. The first week of college was liberating , but I soon realized that Wartburg was not the place for me. Looking back, I would tell myself to write down a list of pros and cons on paper. It's important not to be allured by one aspect of a collge, but rather to focus on what you are looking to get out of the whole experience.

Katlyn

Going into college, I jthought that I should attend college in order to obtain a successful career to provide for myself and future family. After I got to Wartburg this fall and started attending my classes, I learned that my whole thought process was off the mark. I realized that I should not be going to school for my future but I should go to school for my present. I now know that I should be excited to further and expand my current knowledge. What you learn at school makes you the person you are and will someday be and I took that for granted.

Kassandra

While attending Wartburg College, I've been able to pursue my dreams of becoming a Music Therapist. I have an amazing advisor who knows me on a personal level and has helped me every step of the way, providing me with encouragement, support, and infinite wisdom. Through Wartburg's phenomenal music programs, I've been able to grow and perfect my musical talents while creating a family-like bond with those around me. Wartburg Collge has given me a place to call home where I feel like an important piece to the Wartburg puzzle. Everyone here has been nothing but helpful, and I can tell that they all truly care about each and every student here. Wartburg College has been valuable to attend because it allows me to pursue Music Therapy. In Iowa, there are only 2 schools that have this major as an option, Wartburg and the University of Iowa. At Wartburg, I'm able to complete my program in 4 years and have the opportunity to do a 6-month internship anywhere in the country afterwards. Iowa doesn't work that way. That, and the teachers at Wartburg get to know me on a more personal level.

Carolina

To whom it may concern, My name is Carolina Von Kennel. I’m 29 years old, married and have a one year old son named Sebastian. I'm applying for your Campus Discovery Scholarship offered through your organization. I'm completing my Associates in Business Administration at Austin Community College on December 2010. I'm working towards transferring to a 4 year degree university to complete my Bachelors degree in Business Administration. Obtaining my Associates degree in Business Administration has helped me better understand business needs, and specially provide a wider perspective on other department roles and functions. I'm better able to communicate outside my department for the knowledge gained. I've gained the respect of my collegues and superior. My degree has opened doors for me to promotions that were not available to me before. Earning my Bachelors degree will allow me the opportunity to advance my career, make a better life for my family, and be a good example for my son. Thank you for your consideration of my application

Michael

At Wartburg College in Waverly, Iowa, I found myself. I entered college unsure of my life and my options. Through the degree seeking process, I met many outstanding mentors, friends, and confidants whom I revere today. I graduated from the excellent academic institution a confident educated young man. I walked away with a double major in biology and secondary education, minor in chemistry, and teaching endorsements in general science, physical science, and physics. I attained a Bachelor of Arts degree but that does not state what I learned. I learned what it was to be a productive global citizen. I learned education is the understanding and not the grade. I learned anyone could aspire to anything they want with the help of a supportive educational “team” behind them. The professors, advisors, and mentors at Wartburg saw more in me than I saw of myself. I know that I would not be pursuing my doctorate in educational leadership today at Edgewood College in Madison, Wisconsin if it were not for the amazing foundation I was given at Wartburg. I forever hold the campus, staff, and collegiate community in the highest regards. I am proud to be a Knight and bleed orange.

Alyssa

I am learning a lot. It will be so good to have a degree!

Christine

I have learned many things during my first year at Wartburg. I have learned that there are two types of freshman. There are those who are going to play it safe and do all the right things. These students will do all the right things to be the perfect college student. They will always to remember to wear flip-flops in the shower or always be five minutes early to class. There is also another, very different kind of college freshman. This type of student maybe won't always be on top of things or may not always follow the unwritten rules. These students are not just going to college to get an education, but to take charge of the experience of a lifetime. They will take chances and be spontaneous. When presented with the opportunity to try something new and exciting, they will immediately join in. Both kinds of freshman will leave college with an exceptional education. Only one will leave with a college experience that is truly worth remembering.

Jason

Jason, you need to better understand the academic requirements, career choices, and physical demands of being on your own. Be more focus on multiple opportunities beyond the classroom and athletic playing field. You must be well rounded and become a better person who makes good choices. You need to learn to push your mental capabilities and physically test your limits. Allow opportunities to explore on how to expand your mind, body, and character. Study more, make good choices, but most of all have fun and make a difference.

Monica

Ask questions and get all the information. When choosing a college, don't just look at the good qualities; make sure you know if there are any bad qualities about the college. Wartburg College is a great place to get an education. This is only true when you look at a small portion of the picture. When you look at the big picture, you will see differently. Look at the price; it is very large compared to other schools. You might be able to get the same degree cheaper but with the same value and quality. Don't just look for your major, when you look at Wartburg. This college is a liberal arts college, you will be taking many courses that don't apply to your major, and so make sure you understand this. Make sure you feel like you are at home when you visit the campus. If you don't feel that this is the place for you, then look elsewhere. Take this advice and use it well when choosing what to do with the next few years of your life.

Josh

If I could go back I would work harder in high school so I could get a better scholarship. I would also work more so I could afford to go to Wartburg.

Chrissy

Definitely take your time, it is important to shop around when it comes to your education. Think about which institution will accomadate your needs. Remember, it is your hard earned money and it is important that you put it towards the education you really want. Don't be hesitant to visit schools because it can give you a really good idea of the atmosphere of the school and wheteher or not it will work for you. Also, if you need it, start looking for financial aid early because it is a very competetive field when it comes to grants and scholarships.

Regan

I would tell the parents to listen to their chirldren's choices. Just because you went somewhere else doesn't mean they shoudl go there and just because they may not make a significant amount of money doesn't mean they should be interested in a different major. Just be supportive. I would tell the students to not party their first year away. I saw some of my friends make big mistakes since they were now "free" from their parent's watchful eyes. College is scary and very free. You can stay in dorms with the opposite sex, drink, stay up really late but just remember to be wise because you are paying for this and it can all crumble beneath your feet.

Mackenzie

The right college will feel like home because college essentially does become your home. The student should feel comfortable as soon as they step on campus and be able to see themselves learning, working, and living there. If a student is interested in a specific extra curricular activity, such as music or athletics, this should be taken into account when making a final decision. These activities will take up a large part of your time and these are the places where you begin to make friends. The student should be happy with the programs they participate in. If students are unhappy, adjusting to college becomes much more difficult and their future success may be at risk. In order to make the best of college, students need to be open to new experiences and new people. It is important to distinguish who you really are and stick to it. No matter what you are interested in or what you like to do on the weekends you will find people to share experiences with. Don't stick to the usually crowd you would hang out with, expand yourself and you may meet the greatest people you will ever meet in your life

Cierra

Students, When searching for colleges, search for schools that are going to meet the needs of yourself. Not the needs of your parents, or simply your friends for that matter. When you are in orientation, they tell you to "look to the left, and look to your right" becuase the people that you see will not graduate, and this is very true. College is a whole new ball game after highschool and you want to make sure you are prepared in the best way possible. College should be the best times of your life, it is the line that divides youth from adults. When looking for your ideal school, please take time out to get a tour and to meet some of the students who attend. Ask alot of questions at the school: Ask what the graduate rate is? How big the classrooms are? Job placement level? Ask what degree programs they have and how easy credits transfer? Finally, ask the things that matter most to you becuase this is going to be the end of your old life and begining of you new. Good luck in all your future endevours!