Westminster College-New Wilmington Top Questions

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

Richard-Tyler

My best advice I could give to my high school senior self would be learn how to study! I was successful in high school but my study habits were poor, almost non-existent. I would have had far less stress and more free time had I learned to study. It took two years to get my study habits to work for me. This was crucial and very hard to accomplish at college level. Fortunately I was able to keep up my GPA and make the Dean's List during those two years, but it could have been with a lot less sacrifice. Learn to study while you are still at home, taking high school level classes because it will be easier than learning to study while at college! That is my advice!

Brittany

I would have told myself to pay more attention to the adults in my life and be more social. Make good choices in all aspects of life.

RichardTyler

College is a huge change in study habits, first and most important, learn to study. Do not ride the wave in high school, take the challenge to work outside of the box. English class is so very important; treat it with respect and learn to write papers to the best of your ability. Learn organization in your work and thought process, as this will serve you well at college level. Do not be afraid to ask questions and take part in the class, your classes are for your benefit, not the teachers. Take time to learn about yourself, what you like and what you want in life; short- term and long- term goals. Never be afraid of failure or let it defeat the person you are, let failures be lessons and learn from them. Think outwardly. The world is full or egotistical people who are not successful . Be of service to those around you, if it is to help them with their studies or to carry out a task. This gives you the opportunity to build relationships that will last a lifetime. And at last, have fun! You are in for the ride of your life!

Emily

You have made it through high school and are transitioning to college, to become a teacher, as you had dreamed. Westminster College is a wonderful school, but don't doubt yourself because you can take on the difficult classes and semester workloads. Never stop with the bare minimum, because real success is achieved when no one is looking and when the work isn't measured or necessary. Moving out of your town, your home and your comfort zone is going to test your mental and emotional capacities, but don't stop trying your hardest. You'll make friends of a lifetime, memories to share and for your grandkids to hear, but you're also gaining an education some would only wish for. This institution is giving you the tools to build a career as a teacher so you can mold the future minds of the world. With such great emphasis on academics and job ready skills, Westminster College gives you the best foundation for your future and to achieve your goals. Study hard, dream big and always remember you made the correst choice with choosing Westminster College to house your college degree and start your teaching career.

Bobbi

If there was some miracle where I could back in time and speak to myself when I was a high school senior, I would tell myself two important things: remember your dreams and take it easy. Although I know perfection does not exist, I still strive for the best. While that is not a bad thing, I went overboard my senior year. I was involved in so many activities out of school in addition to trying to balance school work and family issues at home. I was definitely focused on school and knew it was my main priority yet I didn't stop to do one thing which was to genuinely enjoy my senior year because I was so worried about college and how I would pay for it. I did not realize that besides scholarships there was financial aid and loans. I still struggle to pay bills but I try to not stress myself so much anymore.

Magan

First of all i would make sure to tell myself not to be scared. Of course, its a big campus and it looks pretty scary but there are so many people there that will help you if you need it. I would also tell myself to not be lazy and apply for scholarships. When I first started college, I was shy and didnt participate in extra curricular activities. Be yourself and dont be nervous, i missed out on many friendships and many fun activities because I did that. Also, I would be sure and remind myself that its no different than highschool. Just a new campus with a lot more people. You still have to go to class every day and do all the homework. Most importantly I would tell myself not to quit when you start. I made the mistake of going for a few semesters then taking a break. Bad idea, get it all over with a quick as you can! College does nothing but help you further your education and get better jobs, also shapes you into the person you are it wont hurt anyone.

Julie

I would tell myself to avoid choosing a room on the top floor, if the school you attend does not have elevators in the dorms. I would also tell myself to have fun, make friends and do what is best for you and not for others. I would tell myself to spend more time in the library. Make sure you focus on your academics and less on the athletics. Call your parents and grandparents as often as you can, and don't be afraid to go home more on the weekends. Apply for more scholarships and work a job when you have time. The more money you pay now is less than the money you'll pay later. Drive carefully and don't take anything for granted. Most of all I would want to tell myself, when you do something, do it 100 percent and don't back out. If you're going to do it, do it right!

Meghan

The number one piece of advice is: Be who you want to be. This is a chance to start anew, and that can be marvelous or disasterous for college freshmen. College is a clean slate for every student, and it's important not to get swept away in the pressures that may surround you. Chances are, people will accept you for who you are, so don't bend to any peer pressure that may come your way. You're above that. Instead, you have this opportunity to bring out the best in yourself in this brand new beginning!

Morgan

I would tell myself to take college level classes through dual enrollment while it is free. In this economy, the smart decision is to take general classes early and transfer them in. This allows you to graduate early and save money on tuition and books. I would also tell myself that sports aren't everything, you grow up and move on, so seeking out a college where you are good enough to play sports is not the best way to choose a school. You should evaluate the quality of education and the cost of the school to make your decision.

Debra

In my college experiance, I have found myself. I know what I want out of life and I feel that college has given me the will to go and get it. I have learned how to study and achive my academic goals thanks to the proffesors at Westminster. I have many more doors open to me then my parnets be I am the first person in my family to get a 4 year college degree. This gives me graet pride and I want to help others in my family to achive their goals. College has given a great feeling of selfworth that no one will ever be able to take away.

Kaija

I haven't quite gotten much out of my college experience yet, seeing as it's the first semester of my freshman year, but I love how friendly and open the school is. It's hard to feel out of place and the homey feel of the place definitely helps make it less stressful being away from home.

Michelle

I have learned so many things, and have done so many things I never thought I would be able to do. Being a special ed student they really didnt look in the lines of college for you. Just living with your parents the rest of your life and working in a factory that is for special ed students. I am now a Medical Assistant and trying to go to school to get my masters degree in 3d animation. I feel through art is easier to express myself.

Angelic

I have gained more knowledge in the health field. I's valuable to attend because these days you need a college degree to find a decent job

Brittany

I've learned so much from college. I've made new friends and also got the whole college experience.

Ashley

Westminster College has given me a life full of pride. I have learned incredible amounts in 2 years. I have met people that have changed my life and made me learn from mistakes. I have joined organizations that fill me with satisifaction. As a Resident Assistant, I have strengthened my leadership, organizational, and communication skills. As a sister of Kappa Delta Sorority, I have been able to raise thousands of dollars for women and children who need it, as well as bond with hundreds of girls. As a dancer, I have met and performed in front of thousands of people. As a writer for the campus newspaper, I have been able to enhance my creative voice and reach out to my fellow students. As an English major, I have found myself in novels and essays. I am able to greet everyone on campus with a name, not just a "hello." Westminster has fortified the girl I never knew I could be, into the woman with a bright future, a humorous outlook on life, and a big heart.

Brittany

I've learned to grow up and really take care of myself. Independence is a great thing to attain, and having that makes me feel like I have the keys to my own success now.

Michael

Attending a community college has allowed me to open my eyes and see that the world has more to offer. Since my first class in college, I knew that if I set my mind to it and study hard I can become an aerospace engineer.

Amanda

When I chit chat with other teachers about their student teaching experience, no matter who I talk to or where they went to school, I always feel fortunate for having the chance to study with the Education department of Westminster College. I did not just have one advisor who I saw once a semester to do scheduling, with the Westminster College Education Department, every professor became not just an advisor, but more like a mentor. Always up to date on the current Education trends, the professors of Westminster understood each practicing teacher's strengths and weaknesses and worked to enhance the former and develop the latter. Practicing teachers were provided with many opportunities for implementing the many teaching strategies we were introduced to. Observations and feedback from the professors occurred as frequently as twice a week in my 14 week student teaching experience. Outside of the classroom, these professors were also keen on getting to know their students as they were outside the classroom. They knew and attended the sporting matches or events we participated. They promoted awareness of our activities to other members of the campus and encouraged us to incorporate all our experiences into our studies.

Evan

If I could go back and talk to myself when I was a senior in high school i would have a couple things to tell myself. First off, I would first tell myself to not get wrapped up in the notion that since it is your senior year you can start to slack off. By slacking off during your senior year, you are setting yourself up for an intensely difficult first semester at college. Secondly, I would tell myself to practice time manageent more. It sounds contrite but it will really help. People tend to procrastinate more because of the abundance of free time but this will catch up to you. Another thing I would tell myself is to keep an open mind about things. In college you will meet all types of people and all types of ideas. Do not close yourself off to any of them and keep an open mind and you will learn even more from the experience. Rooming with someone who is not exactly the same as you can be one of the best experiences you will ever have. Most of all though, just know have fun and learn as much as you can.

Victoria

Prior to my transition into college life, the one thing that really stressed me out was the idea of moving on to an entirely new environment. After finishing my first semester, I've realized that there was really nothing to worry about, because all the other first year students were in the same boat. If I could go back and talk to my high school self, I would talk about how there's no real reason to stress about the transition, especially because everyone there is more than willing to help. Also, I would convince myself to enjoy high school life as much as possible, because after graduation, everything changes. I would tell myself to savor and seize every moment in high school, because you can't get those moments back. College is a whole new ball game.

Ashley

The one thing that I would tell myself if I could go back would be to warn myself to listen to all the adults in my life who told me that rooming with my best friend from high school was a terrible idea. If iwould have listened, I feel that i might still have her as a best friend, along with making the transition into college much easier.

Valerie

If I could go back in time and talk to myself about the choices I made, I would tell myself not to go to the Community College and just head straight to the 4 yr college. I feel that since I went to the Community College for two years before going to 4 yrCoolege that I got treated different and that some of the Professors look down upon people who try to save a little bit of money by going to Community College. I would also tell myself to be free and open up to people, I know it is hard to make friends expessially when you don't live on Campus and you have a full time job but try and have some fun un life.

Michelle

Don't let your problems with indecisiveness get in the way of making choices, or approaching new decisions. While you might think that going into college, no one is going to want to get to know the real you, that isn't true. Even if it is cliche, college really is a new beginning, and the real you is the only you that people at college will know. Acting like yourself will help you find the people that are interested in you, and not the pretend you. Make decisions based on what you feel is right. Don't think on it so long that you end up losing the chance to do something amazing. Come to a decision, whether good or bad, early on, so that you don't end up hurting yourself and others.

Bailey

In high school I never had to take final exams. I was exempt due to good grades and good attendence. I wish now that I would have just taken the exams anyways because I feel like I am at a disadvantage because of not taking them. I would also tell myself don't let anyone tell you you can't do something that you love. Work hard anf just do it.

Troy

Spend the night and check out the classes, make sure if feels right in you heart.

Gabby

Just because its a small school in the middle of no where, there are plenty of things to do. Also every college campus has alchol even if its a dry campus.

Melissa

Never choose a college based on someone else's opinion. A college is not only a place for someone to learn, its a place for someone to meet people and express their individuality. To find out what college is best for you, you must visit the colleges you're interested in, so that you can experience the atmosphere. After you've found the college that is right for you, get involved. Join activities even if you don't know anyone. This not only takes you out of your comfort zone, but you will learn about new cultures or ideas and new people, who you can create lasting friendships. Also, if you have the chance to join a sorority or fraternity, don't write it off as just a selective drinking society of friends. Sororities and fraternities are so much more, they provide you with more lasting friendships and the ability to help others through philanthropy events. These are just a few of the things that someone should think about when choosing a college and making the most of their college experience.

Lance

Go with your heart and choose the school that best fits your ideals.

Lindsay

Deciding where to attend college the most difficult choice many high school seniors will make at that point in their lives. When you think about it, where you end up going to college will send your future in a completely different direction than your second-choice school. I, for example, decided not to go to go to school in downtown Philadelphia, instead I choice to spend my four years in a tiny, rural town with only two traffic lights. No doubt my life would be totally different if I had chosen the big city. Regardless, I am absolutely happy. It is imporatnt to think about this when you make this gigantic decision. Leave every other opinion being voiced to you behind and simply consider what you think is best for you and your future. Do not compromise to please your parents, your boyfriend/girlfriend, your friends. Step out of your comfort zone if need be. Take a leap of faith and do what you want to do. You only have four years of college and what they say is true, these years are the best years of your life. Honestly and truly do what you want to do. Be happy!: )

Lois

I came from a very poor family, and thought that I had to choose college based on money. It turned out that it was the wrong decision. School is expensive, yes, but don't let the one with the biggest financial aid package reel you in. Westminster was not the place for me, and even though I was a successful student there, I was unhappy for all four years. Be sure to really identify the school that will best represent your strengths as a student and have the atmosphere that you want in a school, not just the money.

Alex

I would tell the parents to stay out of it. Don't influence your child on where they should go. And do not tell them they can't go somewhere because of money and if it is because of money work it out with the school and child. Tell your son if he wants to go to a more expensive school he needs to get a job at school and over summer and winter breaks. Even though economic times are tough there are still jobs out there to be had

Jennifer

First of all, keep an open mind. You may think you want to go to one school (like I did) and then you may not get accepted or not like it once you're there. Visit different types of schools: size, available majors/programs, activities offerred. Even if you are not sure about a school, apply anyway, you never know what will happen! You may receive a great financial aid package or realize some things about the school that you think you would enjoy. My second piece of advice for finding the right college is arranging an overnight visit if that is possible. It is a great way to get to meet some students there and get real opinions and experiences. Once you are at college, meet as many people as you can and join clubs or groups that express who you are! This is a great way to meet people and make friends. Don't be afraid to walk down the hall and start a conversation with someone. You never know, this could be a great friendship waiting to happen. On the weekends find campus events to go to or just hang out with friends.

Andrew

Start early and do your research.

Dawn

The advice I would give students about finding the right college for them is to look around, do not apply to a school just because a friend does. This is your education and your future; make it about you, not your friends and not your parents. I would highly recommend visiting college campuses and talking with students and former students, along with professors. I would recommend for the students/parents look into their money situation. College is expensive, but it should not steer you away from furthering your education. They are grants and scholarships to help you just be sure you do not get way in over your head with paying for college. Also, college is the best years of your life. You become well rounded individuals and meet many friends and everlasting relationships. Make sure you get involved and help our not only your community, but you campus, if not for you for future students.

Stefanie

To find the right college, you should look at everything, but most importantly, the academics. After all, that's what's going to stick with you once you're done. The best way to determine if a school is right for you is to visit. Talk with current students and just walk around campus on your own. It doesn't take long to get a good idea of whether or not you could fit in there and be happy. To make the most of the experience, just jump in. Don't be shy or hesitant to try new things or meet new people. The majority of experiences aren't bad, but take it all in moderation. Balance school work, social time, alone time, and don't pass up an opportunity, but don't let yourself get overwhelmed either. This is the first time you have such freedom of choice and could be the best part of your life. Above all, have fun.

Kelsie

As a student member of the admissions team, the advice I give to prospective students is "follow your heart." For most, it is easy to tell whether or not is a good fit after visiting campus and observing student life. College is one of the most important life decisions, and not choosing the right one can ruin the entire experience. Prospective students need to decide what is important to them and find an institution with those qualities. Parents of prospective students need to remember that it will not be them going to college, but their son or daughter, and really pay attention to what he or she is looking for. Choosing the 'right' school is a very stressful experience, and added pressure from parents only makes it harder. Be supportive and remember that this is their first step into the real world. They will thank you for helping foster their new independence.

David

I would say try to find someone you know who goes there - the campus tour guides will never tell you the whole truth. You need someone on the inside who isn't being paid to tell you what you want to hear.