Wentworth Institute of Technology Top Questions

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

Brody

The most important piece of advice that I think I would give myself in high school is to focus on working more to make money to downsize the cost of Freshman year of college, and to simply better plan the upcoming four years so that I was more in control. I would tell myself to find out more, to ask more questions, and to know without a doubt what my financial situation would be going into the oncoming years.

James

Dear beginning of college me, pay attention in class, there is going to be a lot of information, and this year serves as the core for the rest of you college and possibly professional career. However, go out and explore Boston, before it gets too cold to make it into the heart of the city. Grab a few people you haven't talked to yet to come with you; you never know who could turn out to be your best friend. And friends will come, just keep talking to people and being friendly. The more friends you have at school, the less you will want to go home. This school may seem intimidating and unfamiliar, but give it a few weeks and you may start feeling like you belong there. Join as many clubs as you can fit in your schedule, you will meet cool people and learn a lot about this school from the upper classmen. Cherish every day, because these years are going to be some of the best times in your life.

Chelsey

To begin, I really wish I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior. I would tell myself to take a year off between school and work to help pay for college. I would also inform myself to really think about what I want to do for a career. However, knowing that, I would probably still go to college. Chelsey, before you go to college know this: 90{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of the freshmen are homesick, only a few of them show it. Talk to your roomates about it, because you will be surprised that they feel the same as you do. Also, talk to everyone in your class. People are going to split off into their own groups, better make your friends now instead of later! However, your friends in the first few weeks won't be your friends at the end of the year. Lastly, talk to your teachers. They are here to help you, but they won't do anything if you don't ask. Actually, talk to them all the time, sometimes your professor is the coolest person in the world and may be your second dad. Hang in there kid.

Laura

I would tell myself a lot of things. Pay better attention in calculus. Don't stress out about your English essays. Read more books. Spend more time with your family. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Most importantly, I would tell myself not to worry about what other people think.

Candace

Ok, so I know you're young and you're really enjoying having all the time in the world, but before you know it you'll be twenty two and have nothing to show for it. I wish i would've had someone to tell me this, and i don't think I could bare it if I let you make the same mistakes twice. It's time to start applying for colleges, and it may take a lot of hours, but it will all be worth it in the end. People come and go. As much as you think they're here for you, they're only here for what you can provide them. Trust me, older people have it all figured out, you work your butt off now and by the time your 45+ you'll be relaxing on top with the person you love. Spendng your glory days with the person you love is so much more fullfilling then someone you'll forget about in the long run. Now I'm not saying you have to make a million dollars, but make the best out of what you were given. Time flies when you're having fun.

Neil

If I were to be able to go back in time, I would tell myself to decide early, exactly what I/you want. Come up with your plan on going about your career path. Do not procrastinate on choosing a major or the classes you need to take that major. Meet all the deadlines well before they come about. Think about your goal as opposed to te means of geting to the goal. ENjoy your experience and know that no matter what your family is there for you, especially your mother. Pack early and dont forget to bring enough clothes. There is no change machine around so you will also need lost of quarters for laundry and vending machines. Stay true to yourself and know that no matter what you decide to do, you will still be yourself and have that cushion of your family to help you along.

Brittney

After graduating high school I had every intention of attending Columbus State and applying to the Nursing program. I applied to the school and even scheduled my classes, I was ready to go! Straight out of high school I got a fulltime job making nearly $14 an hour! This was great pay in 2004! I was comfortable with my finances and the feeling of independence was amazing, so I decided to put off going to college. After four years I was laid off (along with the rest of the company) due to lack of work and found myself stuck. Quickly realize that I could have already been graduated; doing what I love to do; working with people and helping then feel better! If I was able to make a transition in my life I would have made my college career a higher priority than my job and pushed myself to succeed in achieving my goals!

Natasha

I would tell myself that it will all be okay, no matter which path I would choose. I would assure myself that I was good enough, strong enough, intelligent enough, and deserving enough to go to college. I would give anything to be able to go back and tell that younger me that I did not have to be afraid of going to college. I would say that at 18, opportunity is bigger and more available than it is at 32. I would have told myself that the best time to enjoy and grow through the college experience is to actually get to EXPERIENCE it, and that there would be plenty of time for marriage and children AFTER college. I would tell me that no matter what I am proud of myself, that the road may be hard, but it's worth it. I would give anything to go back and tell myself that life is good and to just have faith in the process. I'd say ?Fill out the college applications, fill out the scholarship requests, and see where the road takes you!!

Christopher

As a high school senior, you pretty much have it all figured out. You survived all those demonic teachers, have a solid group of BBFLs (Best Friends for Life) and the underclassman totally walk in your shadows. Even though college seems like unknown territory, after building up thirteen years of practical knowledge and life lessons, you're pretty sure this will be manageable. Right? Well even though it's important to remember who you are, where you come from, and where you want to go, it's also important to realize that you're starting a fresh page in the book of life and for the first time ever, you will have full control over how it is written. Despite whether you considered your high school experience to be perfect or less than ideal, you should consider approaching college life with a whole new perspective. If you start off with an open mind and a willingness to move outside your comfort zone, the foundation for a successful college career will already be beneath you. Maintain your intelligence, judgment, and core values, then go become the person you want to be.

Nicholas

I would definetly saw study a lot harder. Exams are a big part of college and you need to have very good study habits to excel in college.

Matthew

Be open minded, focused and driven. Take every oppurtunity to learn something new. Ask questions if you need help and talk to your professors. Use every reliable resource possible to help you succeed at your overall goal.

Anderson

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would ask myself "what was I thinking?" Why was I wasting my time in high school? As a man young adult, I would advice myself to be more open to people, and be more creative. Life in college is way different than high school. In 6 months, I learned so much in college that it would takes me at least 3-5 years to learn in high school. I wish I had someone to tell everything I needed to know before I go to college, unfortunately, that was not the case. In high school I used to depend on teachers but in college it's totally different; everything is on your own. You expect to get everything done unlike high school or else you will pay the consequences. If I could go back, I would take school way more seriously than I did before. I would tell myself to stop wasting time, "Life ain't a rehearsal the camera's always rolling," said Aubrey Drake Graham also known as Drake.

Elizabeth

College is going to be different. And it is going to change you. It should change you. If you go through these next four years and don't let go of some of the misconceptions that you hold with you then you did something wrong and you missed out on a lot. In college you can pick and choose who your friends are, instead of being limited by such a small group. This is going to help you become a better person. Branch out. Your classrooms are not going to be enough to expose you to everything that college has to offer. Get involved in everything that seems even remotely interesting and don't wait to do it! New experiences, new people, new learning. That's what it comes down to. High school was easy. You're going to have to work a lot harder, but everyone is going to be working hard with you. This is where you're going to make your friends for life. This that time where you're allowed to make mistakes. Make them, and learn from them. You're going to come out a different person on the other side.

Brittany

I would tell myself to take all the hardest classes in my senior year to help brace myself for college. Also, I would tell myself that it is ok to be frustrated, as long as you don't give up. Make sure you eat; studying is next to impossible when you are hungry. Find a tutor early on, don't wait until you are already lagging behind. Learn to accept that most of your free time will be taken up by studying; you will have plenty of time to play video games and run around with friends after you graduate. Most of all, don't give up. You are a smart girl, you can do it. It will be rough sometimes, and there will be days when it will feel like it is all too much to bear, but just keep moving forward. It is going to be alright.

CHristopher

I would tell myself that I should have taken some classes in highschool more seriously but for the most part I believe I was prepared for the college transition

Kayla

Don't stress, everything will work out. That would be the most helpful advice I could give my former self. As a senior I was very busy and involved in high school and I was constantly running around. If I could, I would tell my former self to slow down and enjoy the final year. Do not get caught up in the drama of will I get into my number one choice or not. Everything does happen for a reason and the decision you made at seventeen is still one I agree with at almost twenty-one. Also the transition to college is not as bad as you made it out to be. Your family will still be there when you want to go home and life will continue there without you. Go and enjoy the college life and don't worry about what is going on at home, you'll enjoy college so much more.

nathan

I would try and get more local scholarships.

Michael

In addition to providing an excellent education, Wentworth Institute of Technology is a great setting for making lifelong friendships. The relationships created here will ensure my success throughout my career.

Harrison

I have had the opportunity to do so many things since starting college. I have met so many new people and have made so many friends. I am also doing something that I have always wanted to do as well, which is join a crew/rowing team. It has been an amzing experience. The academics have also been amazing. Classes are going very well and I enjoy the fact the I am learning what I want to learn which is in the field of Mechanical Engineering. I know my 4 years at Wentworth will be the best years of my life because of the people here and all the opportunities that I have in front of me.

Jacob

What i have gotten out of attending Howard College in Big Spring Texas was the ability to get the college experience but on a smaller scale. Howard has helped me to break out of my shell and become involved in things. I am on the Livestock Juding Team and we travel often to different towns and states. Even with the traveling and being away from school, i have still managed to maintain a 3.4 or so grade average. I have been on the Dean's List for the past two years i have attended school and was inducted into Phi Theta Kappa which was an honor. I was one of two guys inducted. I have experienced living on my own for the first time and learning how to adjust to not having someone handle my problems. I have enjoyed the slow paced atmosphere that you get in college as apposed to High School where you are on such a time schedule. College has helped me grow up a mature a little more. Thank you, Jacob Lewis

Melissa

It has been extremely valuable to attend college for many reasons. Not only do you learn everything you can about your major but you learn a lot about yourself. You are preparing yourself for the future while bettering yourself at the same time.

Aldrich

Two things: Be sure to know how to teach yourself, and 6 hours of sleep is too much sleep.

Daniell

I would tell myself to be less nervous about my overall college experience and to be as outgoing as possible. I have a tendency to be shy and try to get away from situation which put me under a spotlight. Im trying to break out of this shell and I think that if I had started on it in high school and known that would have such an awesome experience, I might have been a little better off.

Lee

Even though everyone gets senioritis during their senior year, you really need to keep pushing yourself and taking AP and honors classes, because some of those transfer over and eliminate some classes in college. Also don't think that you need to jump right into college, take a year off and figure out for sure what you want to do. I took a year off and joined AmeriCorps NCCC, its a national service program that lets you travel the country. I got so much experience doing that, I spent time in the Midwest rebuilding after the flood of 2008 and i learned a lot about the construction of a house. There are a million different opportunities out there, try everything out before you spend all the money on school then realize that isn't what you want to do. During the summer try to find an internship at a local business that would be something you're interested in to get a feel for the job. i took the easy way out while i was in high school, i worked for my mom and took all extension classes, i wanted good grades and free time. Don't be like me!

Casey

Applying to colleges was one of the best experiences for me as a high school student. I had been looking forward to it ever since I entered ninth grade. I tried to prepare as much as I could. As a high school senior I knew that making the transition to college was going to be difficult. If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior knowing what I know now about college life I would tell myself not to be so worried. Even though the transition is a hard one to make I defintely freaked myself out more then I needed to. I needed to realize that everyone was going to be going through the same thing that I was. I would also tell myself that college was going to be the best time of my life and that I should make the best of it. I would tell myself that I would be able to make friends that are stronger than most of those from home. College is the time to grow up and learn how to live on your own. I wish I knew these things and I would have been more prepared.

Danielle

I know that you're feeling really good about yourself right now, but I urge you to remember that you're only eighteen years old, and you haven't even experienced a world outside of Maine. You believe you know who you are - especially who you are not. You feel like you know who your friends are and what you want out of life, but you have no idea. With everything "figured out" right now, I advise you to at least consider this: college is a new beginning. All of the amazing memories that you made in high school should be cherished and unforgotten, but by all means, do not dwell on them. A new, drastically different lifestyle awaits you now, and if you approach it with the right attitude, you're going to excel at it just as you did in high school. Please remember that. Above all, do not be afraid and keep an open mind as you take that first step into the college atmosphere, no matter where you go.

Cynthia

If I could go back and give myself advice I would tell myself to participate more in cultural and communitive activities. As a college freshman I avoided them, not because I wasnt interested in any of them but rather I was worried about not fitting in. Now I know that could never happen at my school. The students are great and are very diversified in talents and personalities so there is always plenty of company around.

Kimberley

It's so much fun so get out and enjoy it. It comes at a price though so go for those volunteer hours. Be patient. This is as much of a transition for you as it is for mom. In these times it hard to find a job so start early and be persistent and confident. Be ambitious but remember to keep your feet on the ground, especially if we're going to make it to London. Your roommate is amazing. Appreciate her for we could've ended up with some snobby girl who hates anime and like flashing her thong. Most importantly stay true to you. We've been through so much and come so far so as long as we stay strong we'll go even farther.

Jared

I would tell myself to not worry about those butterflies in your stomach about traveling all the way to Boston to attend school. You will grow as a person so much that you won't even be able to recognize yourself if you ran into college student Jared. Wentworth is the perfect fit for you and that you have everyone (family and freinds) behind you rooting from you to make it all the way to graduation. No matter how hard your workload becomes, just take a breathe, say a little pray, and handle your priorities don't let your priorities handle you. You will become a better student, person, and man from your college experience so don't heistant to take chances in becoming a future leader.

kyle

There are a few things i would tell my self as a senior if I could go back in time. For starters I would have told myself to fill out more scholarships during my senior year. That way I wouldn't have to take out so many student loans during college, or have to take time off because I'm not able to aford the next semester. Another peice of advice I would tell myself is to go to a community college for a year or two to save money. lastly I would warn myself about the food in my cafeteria, and how mediocre it is.

Immastrid

First off I'd tell myself to 'toughen up now, cuz you're in for a bumpy ride once you get to college.' Grow up, because you are going to be stepping into the world of adulthood where your mother isn't always going to be there to protect you; you are gonna be on your own. Life is to sort to worry about the little things in life, becaue if you do, not only will you be hurting others, but yourself as well. It's ok to make mistakes; because then you can learn from them and get back on your feet again. This is the time now to get a for sure idea on where you are going in life; and don't say somthing you know that your mother would want to hear. Do your research, find out what you like to do, because if not you and those helping you go to college will be paying for that; pun intended. Find out who you are Indhie... Look inside yourself and realize, your importance, your dreams and your future; but don't forget to live Now, and not later or in the past. Live Life Fully!

Nathan

As a freshman in college finished with my first semester, I have experienced just a taste of what is to come. A key piece of advice, that other students would agree upon, would be how college is completely different than high school with there being a huge work load and you're on your own. However, I would emphasize that you are on your own as you're responsible for your own actions, grades, problems and other various things. College brings a great education opening many doors for an individual, but it also brings many distractions. There are events, parties and other situations that would pull you away from your work and studies. The golden rule is school comes first with fun and friends later, do not let them distract you or keep you from what you need to do. Work hard and do not give up when things get tough and seem impossible. If it seems that there is no way you can pull something off, make a way by working hard and keep going until you successfully finish the task. Another major thing to do is get help and work with others, this helps a lot.

TJ

There isn't a whole lot I would change. I was pretty ready for the transition. Honestly, the only thing I would have told my myself is to switch out of the terrible living situation I was put in. Rather than try to stick it out like I did, to just switch rooms.

Sarah

Venturing back a year before now I see myself as a high school senior stressed out, and biting my nails as I apply to colleges at the last minute. I was cramming to get everything done and nervously waiting for the schools to reply. I was a scared wreck. I would sit down and have a talk with younger less educated me and tell her to make sure she gets things done early and to not wait till the last minute to get applications, homework, and essays turned in. I would tell my younger self not to worry about making new friends at school it will happen if you just act like yourself. I would tell myself to form study groups at school to help with homework and to meet new people. I would tell myself to make sure i go to campus events. I would tell myself your roomates are going to be the most amazing and caring people and even though youll have your differences your glad they are there with you. I would tell her that no matter how much leaving your friends hurts you the ones that really care will still be there for you.

Emily

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior about transitioning to college I would tell myself to just be myself. One of my biggest fears going into college was that I wouldn't fit in as I am and that I would become a different person that who I want to comfortably be. Thankfully at Wentworth Institute of Technology I do, at this school no matter who you are there is someone for you to be friends with and people accept you for who you are. Another thing I would have told myself was to get a metal bike lock. I brought my beloved expensive road bike to school with me and it was stolen promptly after arriving on campus. I'm not going to lie I'm a little girl from the suburbs exploring the city who experienced first hand the high crime neighborhood WIT is located in. The bike lock acceptable to riding to drama rehearsal in high school wasn't fit to guard my cardon fibered disc breaked beauty from Mission Hill. Other than that I wouldn't want to give away all the surprises to high school me.

Jennifer

Keep Going. It will get easier. It will be worth it. People will like you, and you will have friends, people who genuinely care about you. It's going to be harder than you expect but you'll love every second of it. Just keep working hard and know that you will build a strong support system. People at home, and people at school care and are always willing to listen.

Ashley

If I were stilol in high school, I would hope that I could understand the significance of independence and motivation. College isn't about parties, socializing, and strolling through four years. College is about finding yourself, what you really are, who you want to become, and how you can better the world. I beleive that understanding education is a gift, and not a given, is what gives you motivation. I would not be in school today, if it weren't for my motivation. I work full time, go to class full time, and manage to just scrape by my tuition bills because I know in the end, it will better my future. I am so thankful for everything education has given me. My only other advice would be to have saved as much as I could! College is expensive as well as tiring. You are your own guru. For once in your life, you decide your future and your every step. It's scary....but I love it!

Trisha

I would tell myself to only look to the future 10{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of the time and to live in the present. You don't want to miss out on life because you're looking too far ahead. I would also tell myself to make sure i'm ready to make any big decision before I actually make it. Things and people change and if you're not completely ready to make that move then you shouldn't because you could find yourself making a big mistake. Always work in a timely manner and if you keep yourself organized from day one then you'll have no problem when it comes time to finals!

John

Not to attend Wentworth Institute of Technology. I would tell myself to think seriously about what it is that I am good at and pursue a career in that direction. Don't let anyone from high school or anywhere else push you into something your not sure of. College is very demanding and only those who really are interested in thier studies are going to get trough it. Most importantly, colleges are a business, a business which is trying to sell you an education, during tours and orientations faculty will do whatever they can to make you think that the school is right for you, even if it means manipulating the truth. Be careful, you have too see through the false veneer or thier marketing stratagy. Look at reviews online, do your research, don't jump into it right away like I did.

Lilian

If I could go back in time I would tell me self to start looking into college sooner and to follow my heart. I only looked at colleges that my parents liked. They told me that they were great schools and that I would fit in. Even after visiting the schools ad not feeling that they were the right places I still applied. I did this to make my parents happy. I never really looked into colleges that I wanted beacuse after my partents had dragged me to the colleges that they thought I would like, I had missed all the dead lines for colleges I was interested in. So I would say "Lil, stay strong. Mom and dad will love you even if you don't go to UMass or RISD. Go to Wentworth. You will be so happy. Don't waste thousands of dollars and a year of your life at a school that is far away and makes you miserable. Follow your heart, it will pay off."

Brittany

Work hard in Calculus! Don't sweat the small stuff. Most importantly, do not hold grudges. People all make mistakes and if they are willing to admit it and ask for an apology, give it. Life is too short to waste time being mad at people. And make sure you go to Wentworth. You will meet the most amazing people, have wonderful teachers, and enjoy yourself more then you ever have before!

Abigail

If I could give advice about choosing a college, I would suggest going to a school with a campus you feel comfortable on and with several majors you're interested in. Making the transition to college is already difficult, so choosing a campus that is accomodating and enjoyable to live on is especially important. There's going to be down time between classes and you should live in a place that makes you feel happy and safe. Also, always have a back up plan when it comes to your major. I chose a technical school that didn't require many general education courses, and when I decided my major wasn't right for me, it was difficult to transition to another school without throwing a year of my life and a large sum of money away as the credits didn't transfer. Only go to a tech-school is you are one hundred percent sure on what you want to do with your life, because they are excellent at giving you hands on experience for a rewarding career, but difficult to switch out of. I switched out of Architecture and will be attending as a Civil Engineer major this fall.

Yolanda

Before you choose your college, be sure you know exactly what you want, especially if you're going to a trade school. Otherwise, you may fall behind like I did. Sometimes you can attend a community college for two years then transfer to a partnering university. This will help save you and your family a lot of money. When you get there, do all your work to the best of your abilities. The higher your grades are, the more likely you will receive more financial aid. Don't ever let your grades slip. If they do, don?t be afraid to go out there and get help. Get to know your professors. They'll be more than willing to help you. Your professor might even show you some work they did in the field as a real life example. College isn't just all work and no play though. Make friends, do an activity you like, find an internship related to your major. These activities will provide a more enjoyable college experience. The last thing you want to do in college is outcast yourself. These are suppose to be the most enjoyable years of your life. Make them that way.

Nicholas

I would say that for a student to find the right college for them they need to know what they want to do. Waiting can be one of the best things a student can do in order to figure out what they want to do and life, and follow through. Parents can help thier children the most by giving them no limits, letting them do what they wish. After the student knows what career they want in life then it is best to find a general area they would like to attend college, if location does not matter then narrow the schools down by difficulty to get in, at least applying to one school above below, and at thier expectations. Then once at school get involved with the campus activities early and often, the first semester can be hard, but most often this is not because of the course load. Finding friends and activites to do can calm down students and get them into a nice balance of work and play early, and that leads to the best college experience.

Samantha

I would advise future perspective students and their parents to follow their hearts. I had my grandfather and one of my cousins attend my school. The main thing I considered was the location and the public transportation opportunities. The opportunities in education were very important to me as well. At Wentworth you have the chance to possibly attend 6 other chools that are also part of the Colleges of Fenway. Being in this beautiful lively city is one of the best choices I've ever made. This school only has about 3,500 students and the classes are quite small but the hands on education you get could never exchanged. It is a little expensive but the dorm life and going out of state was one thing I had to do and I've never felt more home anywhere I have ever been. Trust your heart and let you children choose their own path, sometimes a bit of distance is the best gift you can give.

Natalie

To choose one that you like and not to choose based on what your parents like because it ur the one going there not them and its your future not theirs. Make all your decisions for you because your the one who has to live with them.

Michael

Begin early to find the best school that fits your needs. However this is easier said then done. How do you know where to begin and how do you know what you are looking for? You must remember, although education is the main reason for attending your school of choice, it is also the time when one is truly able to find them self as a person. You must start the process off being true to yourself by knowing what type of atmosphere you are most comfortable in. Having always been from a small town, I knew I wouldn?t be comfortable in a large classroom at a major university. By narrowing my search down to smaller schools, I knew I would get the personal one on one relationship with my professors that would allow me to get the most out of my education. By knowing what atmosphere works best for you, the type of experiences you hope to gain will become clearer and will help you make a decision as to what school works best for you. This time in your life is all about you, so make sure you are able to enjoy it for all its worth.

Michael

The location of the campus is crucial for happiness at a school. A large campus in a small town where most activity occurs on school grounds is suitable for some people, while a small campus in the heart of a city is suitable for others. Feeling comfortable in the school's environment is very important.

Jaylene

Pick a school that cares more about education, resources, and the students and not the way the school looks for outsiders. Its ok to try new things and be your own person! Live and learn!

Emily

College is about learning and trying new things. It's the first time for most people to be on their own, so it's imporant to find a college that resonates with who you are and especially who you want to be. Don't be afraid of leaving your comfort zone--sometimes in the places most foreign to us, we can learn the most about ourselves, the world we're in, the changes that need to be made, and the direction we want to go in. Take education seriously because, of all the people in the world, students are priviledged--priviledged with financial and moral support, those who believe in their potential, a bright future to look forward to and endless oppurtunities and freedom to help shape our lives. Do your best, be thankful, be curious and proud, and never forget to keep smiling.