Wichita State University Top Questions

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

Afiqah

Learn how to be disciplined, learn how to use finances appropriately, learn how to choose the major that you really, really want to do, prepare to face reality as it really is, prepare to work hard, prepare for the survival of the fittest, smartest, richest, or the most talented, prepare for dissappointment and also great expectations fulfilled.

Kayla

Most importantly, you need to consider the field of study that you wish to pursue. Do your research and find a school that will provide you with the best education that you can get in your desired field. But you also need to find a school that will fit your personality. I would encourage students and parents to visit different schools, small and large, community colleges and universities. Go on the guided tours, but also sit in the student center, walk the campus, talk to students and get a feel for that school. Find out about the different clubs and activities, and when you get there, make sure you find a way to get involved. Parents need to encourage their students to become involved in some way, and make them stay at school and not come home every week-end. Remember there are alot of other new students who are wanting to meet people, so be friendly, speak to strangers, share your umbrella (that's how I met a new friend!), and put yourself out there. Go to games, cheer for you team, and wear your school colors. And never be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

Andrew

When parents are trying to find the right college for their kids to attend, they should definitely consider the academic involvement of the school, the amount of financial aid it offers, and the location of the school. When it comes to what students should look for in a college, there are many different options. The first thing I looked for was what graduate programs the school is known for. After that, I considered the student body population. The bigger the school, the more likely it will be a party school. Other things to consider are the price of living, job availabilities, and student life. To make the most of your college experience, you need to get involved, make friends with students and professors, STUDY, and have a good balance between your school and social life.

Holly

If you are looking for the right college, take time to talk to students and professors. Ask what current students like and dislike about their school. Make sure all of the things that are important to you (sports teams, activists groups, study programs, etc.) are available. Once you've started your first year at the school of your choice, don't worry if you don't settle in right away, it takes time to get used to your new life. You'll get the hang of it, but feel free to talk to the on-campus psycologist, and call home to Mom as much as you need to!

sara

make sure they offer their major and that they analyze or take into consideration the environment. check to see how much financial aid the school will provide and look for any programs that may be related to your major.

Rachel

Make sure you go to a school that has many different majors you are interested. Many college students change majors several times, so be sure you have many different choices! Also, college is about earning a degree, so be sure you make that the main focus of why you choose the university you attend.

Matthew

Finding the right college requires one ability above all others. That one attribute which an individual absolutely must possess is an open mind. College-seeking parents and students most likely, statistics standing, hold a bias towards a certain institution. This of course is natural and in order with societal, personal, and peer beliefs and values. The trick, however, is not to close possible doors and avenues of success. The academic prowess, sporting power, and appeal of a school of higher learning may be great but if one fails to experience a campus tour and truly immerse oneself in its environment then the danger of an incorrect fit presents itself. Keeping options open and realizing the benefit in alternatives may save a college man or woman from a wasted year in education. Making the most out of the college experience differs from person to person, but I firmly believe that the best way to discover this personal path is to become involved. By joining clubs and organizations, asking fellow students about their hobbies and interests, and truly traking an interest in the lives and careers of teachers, a student will grow exponentially and gain more from these sacred years.

Jill

As a student, you should keep an open mind to three or four schools. Schedule an appointment for a visit to each school. Before the visit, you and your parents should make a list of the requirements and expectations you have for your college experience (i.e. campus size, location, activites, academic opportunities, etc.). During the visitation, be sure to ask about your concerns and take notes. After the visit, compare the notes you took to your requirement list. For each college, make a "pro" and "con" list. Once you have visited all the schools. Compare the "pro" and "con" list of each school. Hopefully, this will help you to narrow your decision. To make the most out of your college experience, you really need to live in the dorms or campus housing. Here, you will meet a great number of students that are about your age. At the dorm, look for flyers for activites on campus. Apply for a campus job as well. Having this job will make you more knowledgeable about the university and help you to feel more involved in the college.

Justin

The advice that I would give parents and/or students about finding the right college and making the most of the college experience would be to believe in themselves. I think its so important for parents and students seeking an education to believe in themselves because without that they have nothing. When looking for a college, I think its important that they find the best one suited for THEM, not the best one thats suited for their friends or parents. A lot of people today focus too much on what everyone else wants for them and instead they need to put forth the effort to focus on themselves and what they want. When they find the college perfect for them, they need to enjoy their experience because before they know it, its gone, so go out and live the life they are building for themselves.

Kelley

Parents: College is a time to let your children go. Your task is support their decisions and give them advice when they ask for it. I often hear stories from friends about how their parents forced them to go to a certain college. The majority of the time this happens, the kids will end up at their choice college regardless. Just remember it's not your college experience it's theirs, giving advice is ok, they want your input. Just don't try to make the decision for your graduate. Graduates: I know the deadlines and the endless scholarship applications can make the beginning of your college career seem horrible...don't worry it gets better! The best piece of advice I could give you is to LIVE IN THE DORMS. I was ready to be on my own in my own apartment making my own rules, but I am grateful my college required me to move into the dorms. I had the time of my life and met the most amazing people in the world. The cafeteria food and bathrooms might suck, but in the end the people you meet and networks you create are worth it. Good Luck!

LISA

Twenty-one years old seems far too young to be giving this kind of advice, but I can share my personal experience. The thing that was the most important to me when considering colleges was that I didn't want to go into debt. I am debt free. There are three reasons for this: living at home, attending a community college to obtain prerequisites, and attending a nearby state institution. My parents have helped pay for my education when I was not able to do so on my own. I realize that this doesn't work for a LOT of students, BUT if I was going to share anything with parents and students it would be this. The best education in the world is not worth going into debt over. It's like starting life with strikes against you. In today's world it seems impossible to do, but it's not. I'm doing it. The purpose of college is not to discover yourself (that is what LIFE is for), but to equip you for a carreer. If you are unsure about what you want to do WAIT! College will always be there when YOU are ready for it!

Jaci

Always go with what your heart says. Try not to worry about money. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and you need to make the best out of it.

Jean-Marie

Research! Just because a university offers a particular major does not mean it is the best or only university for you or your child. Take the time to go on a campus tour, ask students about their experiences at the university, check out online reviews of the university. Don't be afraid to ask tough questions, this is yours or your child's future. Remember that college is not about the name or prestige of a university, but about laying the foundation of your future. Your goal is to get the best education for your money, not a fancy piece of paper with the name of some fancy college pasted all over it. Research, take your time, and choose wisely. Making the most of your college experience requires alot of hard work. and disapline. College is not the same as highschool and the impact on your future is serious. Attend the oreientation offered by the university you choose, take time and stress management seminars, they offer great advice. Have fun and meet new people, but never forget why you are there... for a bright future, doing something you love, and being the best at whay you do.

Sana

I would say, just go to the one you like, dosen't matter if its the biggest school in your area or not. Choosing a school would be one of the biggest decision in your life. Make sure you are going where you have always wanted to go, because you will do good in your studies too because your heart will be set at that school. Try you best to look for the schools as early as you can because it will take up some time. Go talk to the advisors and the financial aid advisors. Take the advantage of all the opportunities that come by because once they are gone they are hard to come by. Get involved in extra activities. Just keep a possitive thought, be nice to everyone and try your best because even if at the end you fail for some reason, you will know in your heart that you tried your best. Be open minded, it 's a big world filled with good and nice people. Be strong and be Positive.

Kelsey

My advice in choosing the right college is to choose the college you feel most comfortable at. Once I visited Wichita State University, I knew right away that I would love it. Everyone there is very helpful and friendly, students and faculty. Pick the school that "fits." Dont settle for just any college. Pick the one where you feel you will look forward to going to class. My other piece of advice is to be as involved as you can. You will meet so many new people and make so many new friends. By doing so, your chances of walking in to class on the first day and not know anyone is slim to none. These are the best years of your live. Being involved on your campus will allow you to truely make the most of your college experience.

Jessica

When you visit a college, find the one that feels the most comfortable to you. I knew right away that Wichita State University was where I was supposed to be. Go to a college where you can talk to the staff like they are people. Find advisors that are willing to help you succeed. Make the most of the college experience by living on campus and getting involved. Be sure to make friends in all of your classes so you can work together in school or just be friends. It is very important to make friends!

Kaitlyn

Look for a college that is going to bring out the best in you. Don't find a place just to learn, find a place that will help you LIVE.

Amanda

Converse with a variety of students and faculty. Besides gathering a feeling for the everyday campus experience, ask about any special programs, facilities, networks, or opportunities that the university might provide. Keep focused on what you wish to glean from your college experience and evaluate your choices thus. Finally, should you find yourself faltering or leaning in another direction, conduct a self-assessment and listen to your instincts. Don't be afraid to switch majors or schools mid-way! : the time you spend delaying your decision is time lost.

Brooke

Take campus tours; attend the college you feel most comfortable at.

Matthew

Do not just go my the amount of a scholarship that a university gives you but take into account how much the university costs too. Decide by the ratio of scholarship/costs

Krystle

Choosing a college is very tough for both students and parents. Often times financial problems keep students from attending the college that they want. There are many financial aid options to help ease the pain of the tuition costs of attending college. I believe that students and parents should come together and discuss what they are looking for in college and what kind of experience they want. Make sure that students aren't choosing a college based solely on the social atmosphere, and that parents aren't choosing a college based on the financial cost. There must be a compromise between cost and atmosphere. And both must remember that although the college might not be the first choice, everyone must make the best of the situation. Your college experience can only be as great as the amount of effort you want to put into it.

Zielke

Find a college thats right for you visit it many times to nkow that it is good for you. Visit multiple and complete a rating system for the schools. Spend a couple nights around the town there to see if you enjoy the people.

Shannon

Don't stay strictly within your intended major - take other classes, too. This is a time to dicvoer yourself and where your true passion lies. I had intended on being a veterinarian for many years, but when it came down to it, I no longer truly enjoyed biology. After an interesting series of events the lead to a very imporant delf-discovery, I realized psychology is my true calling. I never thought I'd change majors, but I have now, and I'm much happier for it.

Jaime

You want to find a college that is going to fit your wants and needs. Find a college that well suits what you are looking for in a future. If you are more comfortable at a smaller school make sure to pick a smaller university instead of getting overwhelmed in the large party scenes of a large campus. Know what your priorities are and base your decision on that.

Audrey

I would tell parents and students to shop around before deciding on a school. Make sure you have a campus visit so that you get a feel for the school and the atmosphere. You want to make sure that you feel comfortable in the surroundings, and that makes your first day much easier, since you have a general idea of where things are at. Meet with an advisor and see what their plan is for you and what kind of classes you will need to take. Once you find a school that you feel comfortable with, I strongly suggest living in the dorms for at least a year. That allows you to be involved and meet new people. This also makes campus activities easily accessible, and you don't have to worry about parking for classes! Don't feel pressured to be like everyone else, and spend some time finding out who you are as a person. That will make your college experience memorable, and you will meet lifelong friends.

Kyle

Don't get too jumpy when it comes to choosing your major. Not everyone knows exaclty what they want to persue as a major when they come into college, so don't feel pressured to choose a major once you get into college. Take your time, because the majority of the time what you want to study when you enter college isn't want you'll end up studying later on. Remember what you're doing there too. There are tons of distractions when you get to college, whether they be partying, friends in the dorms, whatever they may be you're there to learn and study. There will be plenty of time to go out and have fun, but make sure that you're taking care of business before you go out and have fun.

Courtney

The best advice I can give parents/students about choosing the best college to go to is follow your heart. Do not go to a college only because your friends are going but choose a school where you think you can accell the best. Also, what helped me choose my school is because its in the area where my parents live and since im going to schoo I didnt want to go out of state because I know I would not be able to afford a plan to see my mom every weekend.

Ashley

Research the campus and what it has to offer as far as recreation centers, dining, living, and extra-curricular activities. Schedule college visits and meet people, both students and faculty, in order to get a better feel of campus life.

Janae

From my experience, everybody tells you that the college they went to is the best college and they try to promote the school that they went to. They may be able to tell you many goods things about their school, but just because it was great for them doesn't mean it will be the same for you. Don't go to a school just because of their famed sports team. College is much more than that. Find out what is important to you and what colleges offer these things. Once you are in college don't be afraid to be involved and try new things, but don't take on more than you can handle.

Alexander

There's a few things I've learned while attending college: First and foremost, Prestige or high tuition costs don't always equate to a better education. A much better measure is Professor:Student ratio (keep in mind that large entry level classes are often taught in large lecture halls and can skew the numbers) and the number of professors that have PHD's in a related field to the one they'll be teaching. Other big things to look out for are A) school spirit and social life (makes going to school interesting), B) ExtraCurric Activitie and C) Internship, Coop and Career opportunities (gets you experience AND funding, both are vital to college). Also, last but not least, and yet very important, keep your instructors in the loop. If something comes up, TELL THEM, don't just think "oh, well there's no test or I can still miss x amount of days". By letting them know and keeping them in the loop it shows that you care about your education, and should something else come up later on down the road they're more apt to be much more lenient. they're people too, they know things happen.

Alex

Do as you will, be honest, and don't worry so much about being afraid - it will be fun and you will be better for it.

Trang

Even if the college isn't your first choice, since you're already there, make the best of it. It doesn't matter where you go to school, what matters is that you take the initiative to do the things that need to be done although the opportunities may not be as you would expect them to appear to you. Take advantage of academic and social/cultural organizations on campus, taking on leadership roles will not only help you learn how to prioritize and manage but challenge you to balance your social and academic life. Be proactive! The campus is saturated with diverse personalities, don't lose confidence if you don't 'click' initially. Have fun and network but lose track of your goals for the future!

Kelly

Finding the right college can be a stressful but exciting experience. The most important part of looking for your future college is to make sure they have your specified degree and are able to meet an adequate deadline to finsih the degree in. When trying to find that 'perfect' campus you should visit it and as soon as you walk on the campus grounds you should know that this is the place for you. It may be scary and you may be full of questions as to your future but take it all one step and one day at a time. College can be over-whelming especially while trying to juggle a job, family, school, etc.; find the ease in the support you get from the campus teachers and employees. As you make you way through the hours of studying and reading keep in mind that you are making an opportunity for yourself to excel in your life. As the school work increases and time becomes a constant juggle; be sure to take time for yourself to relax and enjoy what you love to do. Take advantage of on-campus leagues, sports and activities. It's your time to shine!

Russel

Making the most of your college experience will be a matter of knowing what fulfills you on an intellectual and social level as well as taking steps toward accessing the universities resources that will further your own unique potential. The right college will be the one that not only caters to the field you want to study but also has a surrounding area that will stimulate your drive to participate in every meaning of the term "higher education".

Cameron

Make sure the college you pick and the major you choose are right for you. If they aren't feel free to transfer schools or change your major. Don't procrastinate when it comes to homework and attend every class if possible.

Therese

When selecting a first college, even a four-year, stay in your home state, because the first time you attend school its hugely important to experience the life while having the relative support of your family. Whether or not that's applicable, don't stress too much about where you attend your first college years, they're more about learning, growing and discovering. Wait till you transfer for a degree to really do the college hunt, as you'll be much better equipped. Finally, check with potential colleges and see how credits transfer- if they don't normally transfer to other schools, its best to attend a different school to avoid re-taking classes.

Erin

Don't select your college because of your financial situation. Choose a school that will make you happy because you'll be paying student loans anywhere you go. Make sure you're paying loans to a school that you love.

Matthew

Think about what you want and what the student's best interest. Search a lot. Make visits. Keep an open mind about where you go. Don't make any decisions too fast. Think about the social and academic lifestyles that the college offers.

Brittany

I would say find a college that is the right size that has the degree you are looking for. I would also suggest attending a school that has alot of ethnic diversity. I personally believe that going to a school with a lot of diversity helped make the most of my college experience, and also, choosing a school that is not all about parties. You are at the college to learn and make friends not party. I would recommend not attending a two year college (just to get your prerequisites out of the way) before attending a four year college because it is harder to get into the degree program that you are interested in. Start looking to see how many scholarships the school offers and how many of them that you can apply for. Start applying early!

Jeff

Make sure to talk to current students to gain a whole complete knowledge about the college

Jennifer

The advice that I would give to parents and students about finding the right college is to PLAN AHEAD! Don't procrastinate and wait until the decision has been made for you! I would tell them that it is important to start early so that they're not in a rush into even getting into school! I would also tell them to attend a community college for the first two years if they can't afford to attend a University right away. Getting your general studies completed (make sure the credits can transfer!) makes the whole college process much easier and cheaper and it's a great way of becoming accustomed to the college life! I would also encourage the students and parents to look to other options in different areas of town. Just because you've lived in some city your entire life isn't really the best reason to leave the state! Out-of-state tuition is EXPENSIVE and there's no point in spending that much money on an experience that may not be worth it, if you dont have to! Other schools are just as fun! Bottom line, plan ahead, study hard, and live it up!

Jeffrey

For incoming students looking for schools to go to, I suggest universities with lot of diversity. It is good to learn about other cultures by communicating with people from different countries. It helps you understand their perspective and different life-styles. If you never get the opportunity to get to know people from all countries it becomes hard for you to know what other cultures act, talk, feel, and show respect.

Courtney

I believe the things to consider when choosing a college are: finances, socializing options, class-size, and, of course, available degrees. Once at college, I think it's very important for students to get involved with an organization of some sort and socialize with different kinds of people. Also, interning is very important for a student. It makes finding a job after college so much easier!

Sarah

Start early! With the cost of tuition increasing each year, it is essential that you start your college search by your junior year of high school at the latest. Narrow down your college choices and then focus on the aspects of school that are most important to you. If you have a passion for the arts, find a school with an emphasis for the various areas of entertainment and one that has those options readily available. It is impossible to come to college fully prepared. However, if you begin looking for your perfect school early enough, you will have a better idea of what you need to make you feel at home. Not only should you focus on your school; it is also important to research the city or town that surrounds your school. Find out if there are well-paying jobs close to your school so you can earn some extra money to spend. Once you find your school, get involved! Join a club that caters to your interests. You will meet new people and you will feel more at home in your new environment! Comfort is perhaps the most important feature when discovering a new school!

Allen

Finding a particular college is a thing of finese. Picking a school is dependent on a number of factors ranging from student life to academic possibilities. The biggest suggestion I would have would be to keep the options open and the possibilties varied. Never assume that a school is too hard to get into or to expensive to attend. The other thing to consider is what kind of experience you would like to have. Do you want a academicly focused research based school or one with plenty of social opportunities. Finally, never "just settle" for a school go to the one you truly want to attend. Just because the local school is convienient or one school throws you more money than another, decide whether or not it will be worth spending the next four to five years there.

Erica

Make sure that the student is ready for college. I started when I was 18 years old and dropped out after my first semester. It was not until I had my children and became a single mom that I realized I needed to pursue some goals for my life. If starting fresh after high school, maybe attend a community college for a year or two until you can ease into college life. Make sure it will be a community college that will transfer all of your credits when you decide to leave to a University. Fill out all financial aid forms after you do your taxes. Before March is best to ensure you can recieve top priority to funds that may be available to you. Dont get mixed up with the party crowd, they can drag you down and it will most certainly take a toll on your academic progress. However, these are the best times of your life, it will make the experience more enjoyable if you open your mind up to new ideas. Try to have fun throughout your college career, learning can be fun when you take pride in feeling more intellegent.

Joshua

Don't get caught up in what a university is known for. My university is not known for my major outside of the region, but from my personal experience I know we graduate world class professionals. Check out places close to home, and please make sure you visit first! I have several friends that transfered here, but came too late. The came to my current university after several years at another and wished they would have come sooner. The college that I attend has a great support staff that is there for you 24/7. My friends didn't know such a place existed.

Candis

Follow what you feel is right with the school, and go on all the college visits you can. Definitely apply for any and all financial aid and scholarships. College is affordable for anyone who's willing to put forth the effort to find the scholarships and grants.

Alex

Knowing what you want to do for the rest of your life is the least of your worries in selecting a college, and the answer will come with time. In going to college, you need to take into account the type of experience you want to have. If you simply want to get it over with, stay close to home and miss out on the freedom, atmosphere, and infectious ambition of college towns. However, in larger universities, while learning more and becoming more responsible, it is much easier to become distracted and waste time and money, both of which are sparse for college students. Its an imporant trade off both parents and students need to recognize and embrace. If students are able to maintain a balance of appreciating the freedoms and recklessness of youth and quickly learn from their experiences being responsible with their investments they are putting into college they will ultimately win. In deciding a college it is most important to ascertain how you will deal with this situation and whether or not to take the chances.

Cooper

A college choice can be a no-brainer for some but for many it's split between two or more schools. A person might know what college they're going to by the 5th grade while someone else works so hard to get in to the university of their dreams. The necessary things to keep in mind are academic quality, cost, location, extracurricular activities, and campus life. These five criteria help you compare schools and narrow down the margin. Cost is the biggest set back for most, which causes many students to settle for a lesser suited college. Location falls in with cost, in-state tuition is much cheaper than out-of-state. Your parents may be happy if you stay in-state but if you dream of going elsewhere don't settle, they'll forgive you later. Extracurricular activities and campus life go hand-in-hand. If people do sports, academics, and greek life with enthusiasm it makes for great school spirit and an overrall memorable collegiate experience. But what sets colleges apart from each other and prepares you for you future is academic quality. If it's hard to get accepted, work hard. It'll pay off.