Winston-Salem State University Top Questions

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

Lauren

The transition to college is the beginning step for transitioning into adulthood. It’s a chance for self-discovery, diverse human interaction, and advanced learning. I would advise myself as a high school senior to take advantage of all the opportunities afforded to me in college and embrace new experiences. The world outside of college can be scary and unpredictable at times. I would inform myself on the importance of learning independence and what it means to budget your money wisely. College is my time to make mistakes; I would tell myself to learn from those mistakes so that I will be better prepared for life after college. I would counsel myself to build a strong grade point average for the remainder of my high school years and college. College without financial support can be an expensive investment into your future. Although the investment is well worth the while, I would want to encourage the younger me to seek as many academic scholarships as possible. Lastly, I would tell myself to create a vision board for my future goals; Planning is crucial for future success of any kind. So I would stress to myself to start now and plan wisely.

Marvin

If I could tell my past-self anything about my collegiate experience, it would be to “keep going”. Education is paramount to the development of human consciousness. When I entered Winston-Salem State University as a freshman, I was swept out of my sheltered home and became aware of the world around me. Unfortunately, I contracted HIV/AIDS during that time and fell into a deep depression. A myriad of factors have the potential to affect the human experience. Personally, this was the most monumental. If I could inform my past-self of anything, it would be to endure. At any time during my collegiate career, I could have given up on life and my education. However, I remained diligent and continued to live my life. When I received my undergraduate degree, I departed with the desire to assist in the healing of whomever sought mental health services. Currently, I work in human services as a direct support professional. Now, I am entering into a new chapter of my collegiate career as a graduate student. I would inform my past-self that life is tumultuous, with challenges that may seem unbearable. However, difficult life experiences are meant to be overcome.

Micalyne

The advice I would give myself as a high school senior would be know what your capable of doing ,be open to all colleges, and apply to many as possible. In order to know what i am capable of doing I have to take risk and challenge myself more and then I would really know how strong I can be and encourage myself to do more. This would help me create stronger confidence in myself, which will motivate myself to keep working harder. No matter how tired I am to a certain situation I will always keep going because every thing is not the same there is always on certain piece that can be different. That is why I would be open to all colleges and be able to apply to many as possible because their are many perspectives.

Krustin

If I could go back in time I would tell myself in high school to apply myself more. I used to think that was something that only parents and high school counselors tell kids but I really wish I knew then what I know now. I would say do not procrastinate. I can't even count how many times I wanted the last minute typing papers and staying up all night and up until the morning when my class began. I would walk in class with red eyes and bags under them when the professor would be at the door with his/her hand out to collect the pages that I spent hours slaving over. Work comes out better when it is not rushed. I would teach myself time management.

Kasey

If I could go back in time as a high school senior I would tell myself to look and apply for more scholarships so I could have gone to one of the schools I wanted to go to. I would tell myself that yea extracurriculars matter but to enjoy myself and spend time with friends and family. To not doubt myself in what I want to achieve as a carrer choice because I would have to pick a major in college and it would be in the carrer field that I have always wanted to do. Lastly, to relax and enjoy high school becuase college is a different ball field.

Leberly

I would give myself the following advice: College is a challenge. Especially with kids in the houshold. You can do it.

Rachel

If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to work hard, stay focused on school work and do not get distracted by boys, sports and activities. School is much more important. Be social, make new friends and have fun. Don't stay out late, nothing good is out past midnight and you will be thankful for the extra sleep in years to come. Decide goals that you want for yourself and strive to make them happen. Maintain a professional attitude in class and clinical, it will help in getting you further in life. Decide what you want in life and don't settle for anything less. Although school is stressful, hectic and frustrating it will be worth all the hard work. Make sure to make time for family throughout the school process, you will regret the missed memories. Cherish these times of hard work, it will make you appreciate the smaller things in life.

James

If I could go back in time as a high school senior I would take the time to improve my home making skils. As a male living on my own and being a baseball player with an active schedule, I found it difficult to find the time to do laundry, clean and cook. If I had taken the time as my mother requested maybe I would have been able to provide for myself better.

Shanequa

The advice I would give myself would be to apply myself more in the senior classes, as well as fill out plenty of scholarships. If I knew then what I know now, I would do exactly that.

Samuel

You are about to be faced with opportunities and challeneges that you have never known or dreamed of. You are going to be an adult.The freedom that we always wanted and the ability to make our own decisions. It is incredible, but you need to know a few things. That there will be times when you feel fear. You wont share it with anyone, but it will be there. Fear is normal, just remember that most everyone else feels the exact same way. You may feel less than at times but know you are not, and try not to use alcohol and drugs to make you feel better, they will do nothing but postpone the pain. Please understand that you are going to have to work to learn. It isnt like highschool. Remember that it is going to take focus and dedication, but you can do anything you put your mind too, I promise. Finally, love yourself. Dont look to fill the void in others, fill it yourself. If you do this I promise you we are going to end up ok. In fact if you listen these things, I wont have to write this essay.

Mariah

Mariah, Apply for as many scholarships as possible and begin looking into what you need to apply for your FAFSA in order to get grants as well. Also make sure that you send your official transcripts to any college you might even be remotely interested in. I would also suggest that you begin talking to every recruiter for all the military branches now, because I know you want to join the military. The college life is stressful and even though you took classes during your junior year at CAC you should try taking another class while its still free. Keep up with your studies because you need to keep your GPA high and make sure you study for your math final along with the others. You should also talk to Mr. Ray about having him help you when it comes to applying for scholarships he helped me out last second but it was the best last few seconds I made. Tell mom you love her and give Thor lot of love because his time ends during your senior year.

Cierra

The advice I would give myself if I could go back would be to not wait till the last minute to figure everything out. Start early by applying for scholarships, scheduling classes, and figuring out finicial aid. If you wait to long then you won't be able to take the exact classes you want at the time that fits you best. Now by getting everything organized and figured out I wouldn't be as stressed as I was when the first day of college came around. I would also tell myself that going to a Community College for my first year may seem dumb but it will really prepare me for the future of attendeding a bigger college. Instead of just throwing me into huge lectures with hundreds of people, a community college will slowly help me transition from high school to college. Thanks to attending a community college my first year I am now ready to transfer to a University for the next semester.

Whitney

When I first started attending high school, I didn’t take it seriously. My grades were average and I didn’t realize how much I was hurting myself. During sophomore year, my grandmother passed away. Although my heart was broken, I wanted to do better in school. My grandmother always told me to get a good education and it will help me succeed in life. My grandmother motivated me to pay more attention in class and do all the necessary work to excel. People make mistakes throughout life but everyone has an opportunity to turn their life around. I am proud to say I was able to pull up my GPA a 3.4. Even though I started out rough, I rose to the top. Through all of this, I learned how to stay focused and be determined to achieve my goals. My hard work and dedication helped me make a smooth transition into college. After my first year of college, I earned a 3.78 GPA and made the Winston-Salem State University Dean's List both semesters.

Audrey

Just go for it. You know what your dreams are, so make them come true. I would tell myself to not hold back. The best thing to do is to work hard and not let anything get in the way of dreams. If going to Hawaii is truly what you desire then don't stop until you get there. Go study and take your SATS. Apply for the colleges that are in Hawaii. Apply for scholarships and fincancial aid. Do not even apply to colleges close to home because it's not what you want. Get a part time job after school and save some money so you can have a little something when you move. Don't let your personal problems get in your way. Try to find a way to deal with them without losing sight of your dream. Go to counseling if you have to or write about it. Just don't keep everything bottled up inside. Make short term goals and write down how you will achieve those goals. Make sure you get yourself to Hawaii and don't waste your time here in New York. Do whatever it take and don't give up.

Lisa

Don't get involved with any guy right now. Focus on college. Study hard and get a Career. Before you decide to have children. Love yourself before you can love anyone else. School is the most important thing right now for you. Enjoy the college life, make new friends, join in the clubs at college. Study hard and you won't ever regret it. Otherwise you can end up with the wrong man and get pregnant. You don't want to wake up when your in your 40's and think about goiung back to college this late in life. Experience the whole college life. Quit trying to be a hairdresser and focus more on the business classes that high school has to offer. Pay attention and learn. I promise you won't regret it. Life can be better if you just stay on track with school. Don't just think about getting out of school. Hop right into college and keep your life on the right track. Don't bear right or bear left stay straight. You will be glad you did!!!!!!!!!

Ian

"Do it, man. Don’t worry about what people are saying or thinking – this will be the best decision you can possibly make." The high school that I attended made an especially big deal of the schools that you were accepted into – they had a big train (literally, each person was drawn on a paper train car) of students and their choices hung up in the main senior hallway. Normally, this isn’t such a bad idea – but I wasn’t applying to any major colleges. I had decided to save some money and time and go to a community college so I could live at home and work while getting some general education classes out of the way. Because of the atmosphere at my school, though, I wasn’t so sure this was a great decision: people mocked the particular school I was going to attend as well as community colleges in general. Looking back, there isn’t a single chance that I would change my decision: my experience there was debatably one of more growth and understanding than I had in my entire high school career. "Do it, man. This is the best decision possible."

Jashoun

If i could go back and talk to High school me, i would tell myself to work much harder in school and apply for out of city schools . I would tell myself to go away to school for you can see something different and learn something different. I also would tell myself that you can open every door by just trying.

Kayla

If I were a high school sneior once again, knowing what I knew now, I would tell myself to make sure that I know that everything is going to turn out fine as long as I work hard, stay calm, and continue to make rash and reasonable decisions. Knowing that everything won't be perfect, is no reason to completely give up. In all actuality, I wouldn't change any per say. I beleive that my life is going and is a very content and wonderful place right now and I wouldn't change it for the world.

Toren

If I could go back in time and address myself as a high school senior, I would let myself know so much. I would teach myself time management and how to plan for a group project. I would let myself know that it's college & no one cares about groups anymore, it's more about self awarness. Teaching myself that I need to learn how to ask for help and don't be afraid to just go out there and get what I want. I would teach myself how to prepare for having either a social life, good grades, & no sleep or good grades, sleep & no social life. I would be more lean, percise, and prepared.

Tajanel

Hey you! Everything you are focused on, blessed with, and can do, keep doing it! Your study habits shouldn't change and neither should your personality. Continue to be the person everyone loves and strive for greater. Yes, there will be plenty of challenges, but know that God will never leave nor forsake you, You Can Do It! Continue to network and always aim for a strong finish academically and in track.

Marstine

The advice I would give myself would be to work hard, get good grades, and do not procrastinate.

Ymani

Getting ready for college was a difficult experience for me because I wasn't prepared at all for college. If I can go back in time and talk to myself as an high school senior, I would tell myself to start fillling out scholarships early. In high school I was a big procrastinator,so I did everything at the last minute. The fact that I didnt even attempt to fill out scholarships was hell. I basically had no way to pay for college, luckily my mom was able to take out loans for me. I got to college my the skin of my teeth; I almost ended up going to a community college. Today, being a freshman in college, I'm slowly learning how everything works. I'm determined to get myself together for the upcoming year; College is everything to me. In conclusion the advice that I would give my past self is to fill out as much scholarships as you can and be prepared.

diamond

It is important to understand the importance of time management, and having people around you to help keep you balanced. It is important to be a well - rounded student, get engaged in extra-curricular activities, but keep your academic grades as your number one priority. Remember that it is easier to allow a grade to drop than it is to pull it up. Make sure you go to class and take well written notes, pay attention in class and take 10 to 15 minutes a day to study the information you learned during class. Do not cram for exams, study ahead of time and ask questions to ensure that you understand the information in class correctly. Never be afraid to ask questions in class, and make sure your teacher knows who you are and that you are going to do your best at all times during the course. Lastly, be patient, persistent, always ask for help if you need it, and make a difference in someone else’s life as well as your own.

Carina

There are many things I wish I could go back and tell my high school senior self from dealing with boys to books. If I had to go back though and say one thing in preparation for college with the college knowledge I have now I would tell myself to get more involved. I'm not saying that I was not involved, because I was in a few clubs and things, it is that I wasn't really involved in the community and business. Being in college I wish I would have thought more of the future and got a job or did more community service. Now because I didn't get involved in those things it is harder to do some of these things and reap the benifits they provide now in college. So I would have pretty much told myself to get a job or something and start making those much needed connections now for later.

Afton

College is the first experience of the real world and things are totally different in college than they were in high school. It is the time when you learn the most about yourself, grow the most, and also change the most. I would say the most important thing in college is picking the major that is best for you because it will have a huge impact on your performance in school and your future job opportunities. Pick something that not only are you good at but something that you enjoy doing. It is also equally important to do your absolute best in your academics because your performance follows you after college when seeking job opportunities or expanding your education. This means it is vital to attend class, study, avoid procrastination, and turn in assignments on time. Take the opportunity to get involved in clubs and activities. It is a great way to meet new people, make friends, and add to your resume. Be sure to balance these activities with your school work. I always like to say study hard so that you can play hard. Lastly remember to always make time for you to sit back and relax and reflect.

Andra

The advice I would give myself knowing the college life would be stay focused and get more help. Entering college I inspected it to be a breeze all the way through but I wind up being wrong and overwhelmed. Once I got myself together I struggle to bring my GPA up and now I am struggling on finding a internship to help secure my post graduation job. So stay focus and stay on top of things would be the things I would tell myself if I could go back in time.

Danesha

The most important thing I have gotten out of my college experience is the need to be both focused and independent. Coming from a small town and a small family, there was always some adult pushing me, constantly reminding me to finish my school work, apply for this, or study for that. In college, you are pretty much on your own--so it is your responsibilty to remained focused on your education, goals, and ultimately get things done for yourself. It has been a valuable experience to attend college, because I have discovered myself and the things I hope to achieve in life. Being in college has also boosted my independent streak, and I no longer rely on my parents and trustworthy adults to make important decisisions for me. College is where I have begun the journey to becoming the successful young woman I want to be!

Kareem

College experience has helped me grow as a person from a kid to a grown man. I've gone from depending on my family for almost everything, to understanding that they will be there all the time to help. So I had to believe in myself to survive each and everyday. So by just attending a university away from home has made me appreciate the little thingsin life. I probably wouldnt have appreciated these things if i was in my comfort zone back home. I feel its valuable to attend college because you experience adulthood and also as an individual you find out things about yourself as you grow. Also you are going to school to do a career you are going to enjoy when you graduate and support your family in the future.

guillermo

i have met so many new people that love coming to school and love learning new thing. going to school has been one of the best decision of my life and feel great coming to school every day

Je'Lisa

My college experience is just begining, (first year) I feel as if I'm still in a transitioning mode. But what I've learn so far is that I came to college well prepared to take on any challenge that is put in front of me. Thanks in advance, Je'Lisa M. Durroh

Ashley

The best thing here at Winston Salem State is the oppertunity that was given for me to conduct research.

Kearse

College has been a valuable experience to me. These days you can't get anywhere in life without a college education, so I am staying focused because I am determined to make something of myself and make my family proud. I have learned that I can have safe fun while I am in school. As long as i stay focused, anything can happen.

Tiera

A college experience is not just the partying every night or getting away from your hometown. The college experience is based around getting to know different people and their cultures and gaining real life experience in a controlled environment. College is where many young students make big mistakes but most of the time those mistakes can be patched up. Making those same mistakes out in the real world however, can be devastating to your career or personal life. Therefore, it is best to make them earlier in life. Going away to college, for many people, is the first time they are out on their own. Getting out on your own helps, you gain more responsibility and allow you to be open to new things. Having more responsibility helps you become more mature which can help you in the adult world. Being open allows you to bond with new people and gain new friendships. You will also try things you would not necessarily try back at home. Going to college is something not everybody can experience, which makes me cherish my opportunity to attend college and get the experience even more.

tara

I have grown up alot since i started college. I have learned you really have to study and give it your all because your major is your career for the rest of your life. It has been valuable because it will benefit my son and I for the rest of our lives. It has given me the opportunity to work hard for what I want in life and be able to provide for my son.

Ashley

Out of my college experience I have obtained so much. First of all the experience is a great opportunity for me. I have learned so much more than I did when I was in grade school. I've exceled in classes such as chemistry and chemistry labs. My writing skills have been improving tremendously. I've went from downhill to uphill since I've been here because I had to open up my eyes and realize the opportunity given to me. Many people don't get this opportunity but I am taking advantage of it. I am on the road to success. College has been very valuable to attend because it has opened up doors for me to enter. It has placed new people in my life and some of the greatest professors. Overall this is a great school due to the great learning experiences and numerous programs offered.

chiaeh

In 2009, I went to a private Christian College for my first year of college. I really enjoyed it because of the fact the classes were small, and that there was a more personal-based relationship toward professors and fellow classmates. What I got out of my college was the understanding of the Bible, my college was required for students in taking Bible courses as a General Education course. I also learned more of the ethnic cultures and backgrounds through various people. There would be multicultural clubs and events portraying various culture attires, traditions, and aliments. I would say that attending college has been very valuable to me, because the feel of belonging in a place where you feel is right and the people you have a connection to is very important. Through college or in life, you become to learn more about life. We learn to mature as an independent person, where often we don?t need to rely on our family or parents for things anymore. Therefore, I find that college is valuable, because it helps you break out of your shell and learn to be more of an independent person compared to high school or middle school.

Carmen

Since beginning college, I have tried to do my best in all subjects, no matter how boring! My major is nursing and I knew from the start that in order to get into a competitive program - I had to get good grades! There were times that I wanted to bang my head against the wall and cry in frustration, but perseverence truly became an action word in my life and I kept pressing on. I also gained alot more confidence in myself and my abilities through it all. College has broadened my view of the world and has given me opportunities that I never thought possible. I have really worked hard for my grades, but I believe that the harder you work for your goal, the sweeter the goal when achieved.

Arielle

What I have got out of my college experience is not only excellent teaching and learning, but a sense of self. When I first attended WSSU I was stuck in this mindset that since I was popular in high school by being a cheerleader I would achieve the same status is college. Well that did not turn out that way! I attended WSSU with two of my best friends from high school one being my college roommate, seeing them fail and waste their college life away by partying only made me not want to be popular and to strive for success. I have always had this drive for excellence and this spirit that I was going to achieve all of my goals if they were high enough to reach and WSSU has assisted with that. This experience has been valuable from growing apart from best friends to gaining new ones. The mystery about college is you never know what you are going to get and I can honestly say that is not such a bad thing. My advice to college prospective students is to "keep your head in the game, and reach those goals". It worked for me!

Valerie

The advice I would give myself would be to know who you are before entering college. When entring college you meet so many different people that may try and change your customes or ways of doing things. I would tell myself to be confident in who I am and never even consider letting anyone change that. Also, I would tell myself that being sociable is the key to networking and having a good time in college. Finally I would tell myself to go into college Opened minded because there is a world of learning out there and our job as students is to ebmrace the moment.

Clarence

If I had the opportunity to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior about college life and making the transition, then I would begin by telling myself that as soon as I get into college I should start applying for different organizations and clubs, that way I would be able to extend my network of people I know even further. And to also make sure that even though I am just getting into the institution to try and maintain the close relationships with the people that I know in high school still that way if I need them for anything later on in life I can depend on them being there. So that is what I think I would tell myself if I was to go back into the past to my high school self.

Dominique

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to stay focused and not let "senior-itis" take its toll on me.Being in a magnet program and also taking only AP classes I had a bundle of work and I did not stay focused. I regret not working up to my potential. By not being focused I did not get into my first choice school.I do regret not staying focused, but my college experince would not have been the same if it would had been different. Being a Raging Ram is my destiny.

Rachel

I would take my time in studying for and completing any/all entrance examinations necessary for school. Ensure that all scholarship opportunities afforded me (essay, survey questions, etc.) were done in a timely manner. Apply for more student aid through govenment, community service organizations. Make sure that my final GPA in high school was competitive and above average with other students in my school and across the country.

Olivia

Being a college freshman is a very different experience from high school. There are many things I wish I knew back in high school that could have better prepared me for the big transition. The advice I would give myself is to make sure that I have done all the preparations necessary to make the transition easier. I think the most challenging thing is not leaving home and being away from family but the work that is given and expected in college. The academic level of studies that you are used to in high school is completely different from college. In college you must work harder and stay focused, it?s not like in high school where it was easy to "get by" with work. So I would sum it all up by telling myself to get organized, get focused, and never procrastinate.

Lisa

If I could go back in time, I would tell myself that college is possible. Having a family or not being financially sound does not mean college has to be put on the back burner. There is so much assistance available to those who want to make a future brighter for themselves. Being a college student doesnt mean life stops. The opportunity is there to find new friends, make life long connections with people whom share alot of the same interest. Although at times it can feel as though it gets tougher, it's really getting easier, so hang in there! In the end the sense of accomplishment smoothes the rest of lifes highway out for you.

Alexis

Granted the chance of going back in time , I would advise myself to remember who I am and keep focus on my goals. When I first attended college I had lost sight of those things and did not handle certain situations the right way. Getting used to college life was not hard at all for me. I found it fun, making every single decision on my own about where I was going and how late I should stay out. When it came to doing things for myself ,that is where I lacked skills.I was making decisions for me based on other people that were counting on me to live on their dreams,and although I experienced the hard way I had learned what is right for me is the only right thing!

Shivani

I feel that there is a University that is perfect for every individual. Even though people differ greatly there is a place that will suit you like a glove, but you must find it. So many high school students do not have parents who graduated from a 4-year college so I stronly advise is to seek he assistance of a guidance counselor. Their purpose is to provide resources to make information about different colleges and universities readily available. Find out the date, time, and prices of college tours especially! Being able to visit the campus, and asking individuals about their experience that currently attend the school help aid in what is a very difficult process. The more comfortable you are with your decision, the easier the transition to this 'new world' will be. Start your research early and take your time and you will be fine!

Tameisha

College work is not very hard, but balancing college life with social life is. When you choose a college, chose a college that is the right size for not only you, but is a good size for your social life. A large school will probably interfere with school work and a very small school will probably bore you beyond belief. Also choose a school with class sizes that encourage a close relationship with you and your professors. A class size of about 20 to 30 students is favorable. Choose a school that the student body actually stands behind and is proud to be a part of because this will insure that your college experience will be enjoyable. Get involved in as many activities as you can because this will help in building a strong network and career connections for yourself. Picking the right school is like marrying the right person; make sure you are both on the same page because if you are not, there is a good chance that you are wasting your time.

Demetria

Come to college to focus as you planned. Set high goals and follow through with them. Do not come and expect to party and have fun. This is not a four year vacation. You pay for you classes, you attend them. Create a schedule to follow by. Mangimg your time along with organization will bring you a long way. Be careful of who you call your friends, they come and go but your family and professors will not. Build a bond with your professors. If you are struggle, do not lay back and wait for a change to come. "Hard work pays off!"

Charisma

The advice that I would give myself is to try alot harder when looking for scholarships so that I could be financially stable in the future. Also, I would say, do not take the sciences in high school for granted because if you digest the information in the beginning it will be alot easier to remember it later on in college. I would also say continue doing well in school and making good grades because it will assist you in making it into college. I would also recommend myself to join in more extracurricular activities and be even more active, because even though academics is the main attention of most colleges, "what you can bring to the table" is also weighted as much.

Shaneka

I think if I had the opportunity to go back in time and give myself advice about college knowing what i know now i would tell myself to keep my priorities in order and to never procrastinate. I would also tell myself to stay focused and take all the necessary precautions so that when its time for you to attend college you will be fully prepared. Be active and open-minded in everything that you do. Be confident in yourself and believe that you can do anything that you put your mind to. Last but not least i would tell myself not to turn down someone that is trying to help you, yes be independent but not to independent that you feel like you in this alone, cause your not.