West Texas A & M University Top Questions

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

Michelle

If I could go back and give myself advice as a senior in high school, I would tell myself to be ready to grow up fast. Moving away from home to go to college means you have to become independent in decision-making very quickly. In a day you are responsible for your own schedule, sleeping, eating, and social life. This is a big responsibilty. There will be a lot of people trying to tell you how to make your decision. For this reason, it is important to sit down and determine, before you get to college, what you believe in, what your goals are for academics, social life, etc while at college, and how you will manage your time. Be proactive and organized and you will be fine!

Duncan

I would tell myself to be prepared to spend more time and effort than I would think on my classes and homework, and to spend a whole lot more time trying to get scholarships because college will cost more than I think. I would also tell myself to be ready to become a different perosn and that I will need to change lots of things about myself. I would also say that I should go and enjoy college and to open up to new people and new ideas. The most important thing I would tell myself would be to do your best at college and never quit trying.

Ashley

Not truly knowing what to do for a career or where to begin that journey becomes an unorganized and laborious task for a senior. Advice to future high school seniors would to be composed and rational. It really is all right if you are uncertain about your career, the biggest mistake that can be made is to settle for something that will never lead to happiness. As Aristotle states, ?Pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work.? Another piece of advice is not to be fearful in taking out a school loan; they can be a good thing and are very manageable when used appropriately. In the long run it will end up being the least of your worries and a major part in receiving your career. Another important consideration is to either leave or stay home for college. Leaving home is a big step toward a new journey, however, it is not the distance that makes an excellent doctor or talented actor rather, it is the education received and applied. Therefore, base your choice of a college on the education being brought to the table and embrace it with perseverance.

Justin

I would tell myself manythings if I could go back in time and explain college to myself as a high school senior. I would tell myself to look forscholarships and financial aid as quickly as possible. I would tell myself to apply to as many schools as I could and not be afraid of rejection as that was a problem for me. In high school I was very disorganized and in college I have found a perfect way to keep all my things together in one binder, so I would tell myself what I have learned. The last thing I would teach myself might be the most important. I would tell myself not to be lazy and pay attention. This sounds simple but in reality it is not, I was very lazy back then. Since being in college I have learned how important it is to study several materials and their importance when the tests roll around. This lesson has been the most important to me because my high school GPA was 2.7, and my college GPA is now 3.4.

Porsche

I would definitely tell myself not to change my choice of college or major. I would have also tried to be more involved as a freshman 2 1/2 years ago and socialize more. But overall, I have enjoyed my college experience and have maintained a good GPA.

Deirdre

If I could give one piece of advice to myself as a senior in high school, I would tell myself that high school is nothing like college. People in college don't care about who you were in high school, what activities you were involved, who your family is or who you are or were dating. They just want to know you and the person you are. Be yourself and don't pretend to be anyone else. Be honest with yourself and your friends because if you aren't you will loose many people's trust and quite possibly your new found friends.

Russell

I would tell myself that I need to choose what I need to major in before I get this far in school. And not to stress about the move from my hometown to here, because there's not that much difference.

Stephanie

If I could go back into time and talk to myself as a senior in high school, I would tell myself to spend every moment I could with Rachel because she is not going to be with us much longer. I would tell myself to smile because you have a bright future ahead and that life has its difficulties, but you will come out on top. I would tell myself to keep working hard and not to ever back off and to be true to my passions in life. I would warn myself that right before my second year of college; I would have a bad accident and break my back. That I could not ride horses for over six months and I would have to take some time off the varsity Equestrian Team. I would tell myself not to worry because no matter what obstacles were put before me, I over came them better than anyone had expected. Yes, you start riding again and actually took 3rd at Nationals that year!

Teal

I would say to listen to your student and let them look at colleges they are interested in. They are the ones that will be attendeing there for the next few years, so they should enjoy it!

Brandon

Make sure you sit down and really consider all the possible choices. Don't just choose a school because your child thinks it's the coolest or possibly the most popular in the nation. Look at what they really want to do with thier lives, and find a school with a background pertaining to their future profession. Also ask other students attending that university. See what they like and don't like about the school they are attending. Remember, most schools give free tours. Take them, and discover what the school does and does not have. Always try to find a school within your own state to save on out of state tuition. Some rare cases allow in state tution for out of state schools. Also check if Freshman are allowed to have vehicles. Some campuses do not allow this, thinking your child will interact more. More than likely the exact opposite will happen. We need our freedom, and forceing us to do something never works.

Jason

I would tell some that find a collage that you feel in you heart to be the right one. Do not go because your friends are going there. Look are what the school has to offer. Find a collage that you are not just a number but a person.

Tyra

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Marceita

Liviing on campus for at least the first year will help to teach you more about college than any orientation class ever could.

Andrew

I think that parents and students alike, should be very avid in choosing a suitable university. There are many different choices for a college education out there, and you need to examine each university that is being considered and decide which one would be good for you. Things such as extra-curricular activities, athletics, and the qualification of academic departments to fit the student perfectly. As far as enjoying the college experience, I would recommend getting as involved in your university as possible. Whenever there is a barbeque or social event, it would be beneficial to go. I have met many of my friends through these events, and the friends I have made will be friends for life. I would also enlighten them on the drinking problem our nation's universities are experiencing these days. It is much worse at some universities as opposed to others, but regardless of the college there will be students who binge drink. It is vital to stay focused on your school work to achieve the goals y ou have set for yourself.

Christen

I used to think that finding the right school was just a matter of selecting one that a magazine said was the best for my major. Now I know that there is much more to consider. I went to a big business school because I thought I would be happy there and get a great education. I ended up learning less because the classes were so big and the instructors didn't have time for so many students. So I transfered to a smaller school, and though it may not be as prestigious as other schools, it is much more comfortable. The professors are always available and the students are all very welcoming. I would like students to know that image isn't always everything. Don't focus on going to the "best" schools, focus on the aspects that are important to you. If a sense of community is important to you and you don't want to be just a number, smaller schools are usually better. Also, to make the most of your college experience, don't be afraid to join clubs and volunteer. This is where you meet good people and learn valuable life lessons.

Jovan

First of all, to students, know what you are going to be doing(majoring or minoring) for college. That will narrow down the results for the type of college/university you want to look into. Most colleges are known for prodigious programs, such as sports, the arts, law, medical fields, etc. Once you know that, visit your selected colleges, take your parents/guardians with you (this really helps for they are your greatest support) walk the campuses, speak with the dean of the school, and learn as much as you can. You will find your niche if you really know what YOU want. Next, apply for your college early! Plan ahead! Never wait. By doing things early you will be the first choice. First come, first serve. Universities love it when you have all the information down. Next, apply for scholarships-lots of them. If you are in financial need, scholarships really help. Find positive and legal ways to secure your admission. College is amazing. You grow to be on time, more organized, more socially active, and you learn to be yourself most of all. Times do get busy with your studies, but everything is totally and COMPLETELY worth it.

Josh

Make sure you look at the school that has what your interested in.

Kristie

Go somewhere that makes you feel comfortable and go there because it is the place you think you will enjoy, not a place you feel like you are expected to go.

Neal

I would say: think hard about what you want to do with your life and go for it. Don't let anyone get in your way!

Colleen

Do your homework and don't settle for less than you expect.

Victor

My advice that I will give to someone who finds the right college is that make everyday count and when the times come hard don't give up fight through it and once you have beat that obstacle you will learn how to beat other obstacles that might come in your way.

Mikel

The best advice that I give partents or students it to always have a plan "B". Never count on your first choice 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c}. My second choice school is whree I ended up and I love it. Not only did they offer me more money the classes are smaller and the professors are awesome. Secondly, always visit a campus while school is in session. This gives you a feel for how things will be once you get there. If at all possible visit with professors in the area of your interest. I am so glad I took the time to visit each of the schools on my short list before making my decision. Finally, make sure the school will fit your needs. Are there study groups, tutors, access to computers, internships, job fairs etc.. Make sure your educational goals can be met. Look at the quality of graduates that the school produces.

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Jessica

Above all else, I would give the advice of making sure you can afford the school you're going to. It is important to enjoy the school to your fullest, but you won't be able to if you're constantly worrying about financial difficulties. I find myself not being able to sleep and not enjoying my college experience as much as I can because I have to take out so many student loans. I'm always bogged down with the idea that I will be in so much debt once I graduate that I won't be able to enjoy life after college as much as I should. You must make sure that you will enjoy the campus and that they have a good program that you want to study, but if you can't afford your college, you won't be able to enjoy your experience, and that's why you're there. Not just for the education, but also because it's supposed to be a wonderful time of your life. Don't let financial problems ruin it for you.

Sara

I believe it is common for students to choose a school based on a parent's alum status, or their favorite football team; however, it is very important that the students research schools to find the best possible school for whatever it is they're reaching for in their future. Also, visit schools before making your decision. The atmosphere at the college is very important. What you see at parent-student orientation is in no way the true atmosphere of the school. Instead what you see is the school trying to impress. Go for a couple days during a normal school week. Once you have chosen your school, research what clubs/organizations are offered on-campus, and visit at least three or four of the ones you may be interested in before you decide. You'll know when you've found that organization that makes you feel at home. Also, I feel as though it is important to live on-campus your first year of school. It is there that you meet some of your closest friends and truly become acquainted with the school. (So choose a school where living in the dorms won't kill you).

Stephen

Don't just go after the first college you see or a hometown college because of what you hear, do your research and put some long time into this decision; this is one of the biggest of your life.

Jonas

First off, one must have a desire or a somewhat 'want 'to attend college ; college is not made for everyone, esp. for those who do not want to be there. In this case, college could be a waste of time & money. For those who do want to attend, I would suggest attending a community college while one decides on what he/she really wants to pursue -- as far as a career goes. This way one could get their basics out of the way, and save some money at the same time. Also, those who do not or no longer want to attend college for more that 2 yrs, he/she can at least have an associates degree. Once in collge: never overload oneself with work -- this can lead to one being burnt out too soon too fast, take some classes that are fun -- don't bog yourself down with just your major courses, do not be afraid to change your major -- it's quite normal to change your mind more than once or twice. Overall, choose a major that makes You happy. Do what you like to do so it's not really considered work, but more of a hobby.

Mikel

Make sure you check out the class size and the overall teacher to student ratio and make sure it is a school in a region that fits your overall views.