Wright State University-Main Campus Top Questions

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

Sarah

I would tell myself that I would no longer be lazy and I'd actually have to study hard for my test. I could no longer goof around with my school work. I'd have to buckle down and study, because your overall college GPA means alot to your future boss. I also would tell myself that sports won't get you very far in life and only your school work would. Also, on college their is alot more papers that you have to write and the test are alot harder. Your also expected to be better than everyone else and be able to get an A your test. There's also alot of things outside of the classroom you have to do. Your expected to study and do your work for 50 hours per week and that doesn't leave you with very much time to be with your friends. There's alot more college activities that are aviable to you and take advantage to them!

Katharine

I would have to tell myself to have more faith in myself. I used to think that I was going to be an outsider and fail at alot of things, but I have realised that I am a good student and that I can do well in all my goals. Wright State may not have been my fisrst thought, but I was a great choice. Looking back I think I would have told myself to do more and be more outgoing. I have by no means limited myself in the extra cirreculars, but sometimes wonder if I should have tried the tennis team or chior. But I really have no regrets. I have made a lot of fiends and do not believe that I could have picked a better school for myself. Basically, I will always have a positive outlook of Wright State.

Briana

Dear Briana, The time in life is coming where you have to figure out what you are going to do for the rest of your life. Do not be nervous or worried because I know you worry about everything. College is going to be a great experience for you and you are going to make the most wonderful friends who are going to help you get through the next four years. You are going to miss your family since they are three hours away, but they are always a phone call away, and you better call because mom is always going to worry. When school becomes a bit overwhelming, just stop, take breath, and remember that everything is going to be alright. The first year is going to be your biggest stuggle, but you will get through it, keep your head up and have some confidence in yourself. I know sometimes it is going to feel like you are trying your hardest and you still are not doing as well as you want to be, but keep working hard, it is going pay off, I am sure of it. Best of Luck to You, Briana Long

ashley

Going back in time to talk to myself as a high school student I would tell myself to focus as much as possible to get my work done. Before i get to college i would tell myself to get a job that pays good money so I could save as much as I could to not have to worry about school fees or buying books. I would tell myself to try to get my own place so that I wouldn't have to stay at school all day to study since there really is no peace at home. I would tell myself to make more friends to help ease the college transition. I would also tell myself to try to keep family and financial problems out of the classroom so I could focus. Lastly, I would tell myself to keep a positive mind because it will all be worth it when I graduate and have a good career so I could take care of my family and myself, so don't get discouraged when the going gets tough.

Jessica

I would tell myself to continue being yourself. College will be an amazing experience if you let it be. I think the transition is easy and not a whole lot was thrown at me that I wasn't prepared for. Wright State is a great choice for me and I am very pleased that I was able to commute for the first two years and not live in the dorms. The professors may not know you as well as the teachers in high school did so make youself known, and do this in a good way. Always ask questions when you don't know something. No question is going to be wrong. Take it all in and absorb it. Don't let things stress you out that aren't worth it and do not procrastinate!

Stephen

I would advise myself to stick with the plan.

Kate

If I were to go back in time, I would definitelty tell myself to think more wisely about where I wanted to go to school and what I wanted to major in. I have switched my major and I have also considered transferring to a different school. Additionally I would tell myself to work to the best of my abilities in high school and use those study skills and work ethic at college. I would also advise myself to get involved with more activities on campus, because there are great opportunities that arise from them. Finally I would tell myself not to worry so much about trying to keep the friendships that were made in high school, because at such a young age it is impossible to know who your true friends are. In college you make such close relationships with people that the high school friendships ultimately do not seem to matter

Melissa

My first day as a freshman at Wright State was such an eye opener for me. Coming from a small town and also a small school, everyone knows everyone and everyone is from basically the same background so in other words, there isn't much diversity. This is why not only on the first day but the first month it took me so long to adjust to all the diversity from different cultures. Also once classes started, I realized I was on my own. The professors did not tell me when homework assignments were due or when exams were going to be held. I had to take responsibility and look it up on my syllabus on my own time. To sum everything up, the advice I would tell myself is to expect to experience culture shock, and also you don't have Mom and Dad anymore asking you if you have your homework finished. You are officially on your own so you have to take responsibility for yourself.

Christopher

The first thing I would tell myself is to learn to stay focused on the tasks on hand. I would tell myself that all the partying and late night card games are fun, but not at the expense of my future and education. I would hope that I could get myself to understand the importance of attending class and doing the required work. I would try to explain to myself that what I knew as a high school senior was nothing compared to the knowledge, experience, and wisdom I would know in the future. I just hope that I would listen to myself, since I would not listen to any one else back then.

Tya

If I could go back in time back to high school I would advice myself to take it more serious than I did and made sure I recieved higher grades than just trying to have fun all the time. I would have also told myself to listin to my parents more since I know they just wanted what was better for me than thinking I was grown and everything would have came to me. Now things arent that bad, but they could have been better and a bit cheaper. One thing that I regret the most is not applying for scholarships. I believe that the scholarships would have kicked in towards whatever my finical aid didnt cover, and I could have had more pocket money. I would have told myself figure out a game plan better despit knowing my major could change, but to just have a better start.

Marlana

The transfer into college can be challenging, but the man things to keep focused on are, be open, expierence knew things, make yourself go that extra limit and don't give up hope. Nothing is impossible when you put your mind to it. It can be hard to make new friends, but let yourself be open, do things that you never thought you would, and don't be afraid of what might come in the years to follow. Set up a study time line and most importantly get ahead of your assignments, don't wait until deadlines to do things, your work won't be as scholarly.

Ciara

I would tell myself to continue to be successful because it will greatly pay off in college. Also, I will tell myself to stay focused and determined to be great in my future becauseit will help in my future years as a college student.

Brittany

The advice that I would give myself is to not get to carried away with the amount of freedom you find when leaving the home. Staying focused and balancing that with fun is a very important and hard task to accomplish. My other piece of advice would be to meet new people and be outgoing because you make a lot of new and great friends that way. If you are reserved and quiet it makes it harder to adjust to the "college life".

Kelley

I would tell myself, "Self, you've really got to get involved. Go party, but only on the weekends so your grades don't drop. Go watch rugby games and play in the rain under that broken gutter outside your campus apartment. Don't eat in the school cafeteria because you are going to gain ten pounds, and trust me, you will not be a happy camper later. Self, even though your first semester might be a gradual step into the college atmosphere, you really need to watch those grades. Getting settled does not mean being lazy. Oh, and self, make sure you don't spend all day online emailing and prowling through the profiles of old boyfriends on social networking sites. College is a whole new playing field!"

Allison

Look at more colleges. Although I am very satisfied with Wright State, I wish I would have explored more. After being in college I have been to UC and UD as well and they seem more of a fit for me. As a senior to find the right college, you just have to check them out, which I did not.

Dawn

If I had an option of going back as a high school senior, honestly, I would do it. Because, once you've fallen, its hard to get back up. But that is one of the reasons why I am the person I am today. I had to learn the hard way, but it made me realize that I had a lot to learn. I wish someone would had told me in high school that not being serious about school, could lead to losing big amounts of grants and loans. Which is the reason why I am filling out this survey as an option to win this scholarship. I could really use this money I admit I messed up my first year, I am back on my feet and promised myself to never let myself down again. I was being selfish not knowing I was also letting my parents down. Out of all the advice in the world the best advice I would give myself is: Do it right the first time, Get it done, and ask questions. Going into college I never asked questions.. the biggest mistake ever.

Lee

Be financially ready. Go to a school where you know you can afford it. Make sure to apply for many scholarships. SCHOOL IS NOT CHEAP!!! A simple 200 dollar scholarship can help tremendously with books which means more than most know coming out of college. College is a blast but remeber why you are going. Go out an have fun Friday or Saturday but make sure you remeber you know why you are there. If you are struggling then don't go out that night and stay in and get your homework done. Remember that diploma will give you plenty of money in the end to go out and have your fun after college. Go out and try to experience new cultures. College has every kind of culture imaginable. There are many people from other countries that come over to the US to try to get quality education that we can give them. Most important never give up. There may be some time that you may worry if you can pull through or maybe it seems that its just to much, but never give up you will find yourself and pull through if you really try!!!

Laura

The advice I would have given myself as a high school senior would be to keep my head up and open up to the people around me. I was diagnosed with cancer when I was 19, uninsured, and working two jobs. I was so scared for my future that I wasn't sure what to do. I ignored the diagnosis for a year and tried to continue my college education. I was unable to continue with my academic success and had to withdraw from college to focus on my health. I didn't tell my family and friends because I knew they couldn't help me financially and I didn't want them to be burdened with my troubles. I got very down on myself. I wish I would have let more people know what I was going through so they could have given me the emotional support I didn't know I needed. I made it through as a much better person and have since went back to school to complete my college education. Those years would have been much easier and happier if I would have thought more positively and leaned on others.

Riley

The most important thing to remember as you take this step in your life towards a career is the importance of college. You are not just continuing your education in order to get a piece of paper and start working. You are going to college to continue your education. There will be sometimes when it gets tough and you will wonder why you're putting yourself through it, but just keep going. You are there to get an education. You want to be a teacher and make a difference in children's lives. The material that you are learning will be useful to you forever. Everything you learn, no matter if it seems ridiculous or not, will come in handy at some point. There are many people who don't get the chance to go to college. You are lucky, so dont' take it for granted. Work hard and make it through so you can do what you have always dreamed of doing. College is your next step in life. Enjoy it.

Stephen

If I could go back in time I would advise myself to not be swayed by others. I feel, at this point, that I have made all of the right choices concerning my education. Not a day goes by that I do not feel happy with my life at college or the field of study that I am currently involved in.

Brooke

CONSTANTLY LOOK AND APPLY FOR SCHOLARSHIPS! There are so many scholarships and grants that don't get dispersed because people are not using all the resources available. Also, get as involved as possible.

Micahael

If I could go back and talk to myself during my senior year I would have told myself not too worry so much about things. One of these things in fact would be girls. When you are young you shouldn't get so serious about relationships or girls. It would tell me that I should focus more on grades and my future. I would have also told myself not stay up so late the night before my first attempt on the ACT. Along with that I would have told myself to study for the ACT very hard so I wouldn't have had to worry about getting financial aid. I could have received a full ride to anywhere instead. One other thing I would have told myself is to save my money better. Lastly I would have told myself to spend more time with my family. During high school I really didn't spend much time with my family, and now I am regretting it going to college. I barely ever get to see them anymore, because I am so busy. I truly do miss them. That is what I would have told myself if I could go back.

Angela

I would have made plans to go on to college when I first graduated high school when my mind was much younger and given what I know now. My high school teachers were more patient and were more willing to work with the students to make sure that they were the best individuals that they could be. Professors today do not take the time to get to know their students or even try to work with them on everyday issues that we all struggle with from time to time. I also think that we could all benefit from some type of education on how we can change our old ways of life to adjust to college life before we go there.

Breanna

I would tell myself to make sure you listen to the people that care for you that in your life. My mother always told be to stay focused, keep my grades above average and apply myself. I would tell myself to develop study skills and to prioritze my life and activities. And most of all keep God first. It is not to late for me to get the best out of this opportunity that God has given me. My mother has sacrificed so much so that I can attend college. I need to make God and my mother proud of me and let them know I appreciate them having my back.

Katherine

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior I would say that the transition to college from high school isnt as scary as I had originally thought. There are so many opportunities to take advantage of on campus and many advisers to help you all the way through graduation and after. They will walk you through step by step what is needed for each major or minor you wish to pursue. If you are undecided they will help you to figure out what your good at and what possibly can become your passion in life. There is also a uvc class that allows you to get to know the campus, where you go on tours and become familiar with where everything is and what is available to you. Don't slack on your work, because you want to be able to have professors in your corner for recommendations and that is always a good thing when wanting a good career. Also, the class sizes are mostly small making it easier to stay focused. There are many people to help if you fall behind in classes so never worry that your on your own.

Brittni

I was diagnosed with a learning disability in grade school and ever since then I?ve had to work a lot harder then most kids my age. The thought of college was always daunting. Now as a senior about to graduate this year, I would go back in time and tell myself that anything is possible. The transition from high school to college is going to be scary, but I'll learn be effiecient and confident in my self. People I know are going to change, but I'm still the same girl with all the same values, goals and convicitons. I'm going to learn to give more and take less. I'm going to learn alot about myself and what I'm good at. College is going to make me a better person. It's hard work, but it's well worth it. I?m going to graduate in four years with a 3.0 GPA and I?ve been happier. I?ve succeed and accomplished my goals thanks to Wright State University.

jowyn

work harder

tamika

Simply to stay focused. College is hard work but at the same time alot of fun. Take the exsperience seriously and you can go along way.

Jacob

When you get there, be sure to study hard, keep your eyes on the prize, it is alright to say no sometimes.

Amy

My best advice would be to enjoy all of the college experience because those will be the best time of your life. The peer and teachers you meet along the way will help you along the way with your journey. And my best advice to you as a incoming freshman don't be scared because its just the beginning of a second chapter of your life. :)

Aaron

The advice I would give myself now would be to stay focused, and just try my best in college.

Jessica

If I could go back in time to my senior year, I would tell myself to save as much money as I can and to make as many friends as possible with different cultural backgrounds. I already have the motavation and skill to do my work and set goals, but I could not make friends easily and I believe that is something that I should have worked on. We didn't have much culture differences either, especially when growing up in a small town. Wright State University has many people with different cultures and I love it, so its a shame I did not have those experiences earlier in my life. To have saved more money would help me pay my college bills. Education is more important then going to the movies or out to eat. By saving money and having more interaction with different people would have made me more set for college.

Christina

Apply for scholorships and finacial aid sooner.

Brittani

I would tell myself not to go to schools just because a friend or boyfriend is there. Find a school that has all the needs I want. Also not to pick a school just because you may not know anyone thats going there, because most of the people there will be experiancing the same.

Tiffany

If there is a chance to spend the weekend at your College of choice, take the opportunity! Or even stay the weekend on campus with a friend. This will give you a better insight on what the next four years will be like.

Carly

Take several visits to the top colleges of your choice. The second time I went to a place, I didn't like it nearly as much. Also, don't stick it out at a place you are unhappy, because it will affect your grades, mood, socail life, and overall happiness... In the end, you are the one who has to be there for the 2 or 4 years, or possibly more, so make sure it is a place YOU want to be, and everyone has good intentions when they give you advice, but in the end, listen to yourself more than anyone.

Emily

It would be nice to go to the most prestigous college in America, but pick the college that gives you the most because no matter what school you chose, college is what YOU make it!

Allante'

I would tell them to do as much research about thier colleges that they are considering as much as possible. I would tell them to look at thier fees and rates. analyze thier staff and faculty and see how helpful and accurate they are. I would tell them to look at thier impact on the business world and to check out what they have to offer not only on campus but off campus as well. And to make the most out of college is GET INVOLVED!

Kayla

I would advise students to take tours of the campuses that intest them. On their tours I suggest that these students talk to the students attending the campus that way they can really get a feel of the college. I also would advise new students to reach out to others and make new friends. I also suggest that they join a club. Classes seem easier when you have friends to help you or disscuss the lecture with.

Brittany

Have fun and think what is the best choice for you

Robert

When it comes time to choose a college, after the applicatoins have been sent in, acceptance letters recieved, it is now time for the biggest choice throughout the whole proccess: picking YOUR school. In picking a school as a student you must keep in mind how being on campus made you feel when you visited (visiting is a must); did the school have the key thinigs that you are looking for, and did the school make you feel at home (giving a feeling that you belong and could thrive). Parents, it is so important that you go along with your childs ambitions in deciding which school he/she will attend. The most imparative thing a parent can do is to help their child see the good and not so good in each school; pointing out what would be helpful and not to them is a simple and affective way of being a part of the proccess in the selection of the school. No matter what choice is made, make sure that it is made together. College is a major step for both student and parent. And the choice is only made easier with understanding from both sides.

Jaden

My advice to students would be to find the college that fits their needs. If they like colleges with smaller campuses and smaller classrooms then they should apply to a local university or community college. Students will get the same education as a bigger university but will enjoy it more and get more attention from professors. My advice to parents is to make sure they go along with their child to scope out the college. They should not choose a college just for its name. Also, parents and students should make sure the college has the student's career option and will provide them with the best education possible. Making the most out of college does not mean partying and socializing all the time. College can be fun without the parties. Students should join clubs and get involved with extra curricular activities that interest them. Watching athletic events can engage students in conversation as well as be fun. Students should try and meet other people involved in the same career path because they will be able to help them with classes and will probably be in most of the classes with them.

Phil

Look around, explore options you may not have thought about before. Look out of state, try new things, be open to new ideas and places. Choose a school that you want to go to, not where your friends want you to go, you'll be much happier choosing a school you really want to attend. Visit campsus, make appointments with advisors, especially for transfer students, ask if/how your classes will transfer. Look at on and off campus housing and do not be afraid to look into financial aid, it can be a life saver. Most important, the student and parents need to be on the same page, have good communication about what the student wants and what the parents can do. Keep open to new ideas, both student and parents, and parents need to listen closely to what their kids want, not what the parents want. College is suppose to be a fun and exciting learning experience, both parties, student and parents, need to work together to make that dream a reality. College is an experience not to miss, for the education and social gains. Both are very worth it.

Dominique

I would advise students and their parents to go visit different colleges before it is time to make a decision. The students should sit in a class or two as well as spend a night to get a feel for the campus. The parent and student should make sure the student is going to get the best schooling for what they want to do. The student should pick a school where their academic needs are going to be met as well as a place where they feel comfortable and at home. When it comes to making the most out of college I would tell a student the best way to make the most out of college is to get involved. You will never know how much college has to offer if you do not get involved.

Kontara

Insist that your child do the research necessary for finding the right college. Guide them through the process do not leave the search for college purely on them. Keep checking to make sure they do all the things the should do in a timely manner

Chad

The college experience first off is not what everyone thinks it is. It is not going to be sunny everyday on campus with everyone smiling and frats running around inviting you to their parties. It is just raw work. Everyone eventually gets tunnel vision in the direction of what needs to be done on their task list. There is an abundance of responsibilities to juggle and only the most prepared can make it through. In order to be prepared one has to be well organized in every aspect of life. Stay healthy, fit, spiritual, dedicated, friendly, and ect. Sounds fun right. To the untrained eye it may not. But for me it cultivates large rewards. I work hard and play harder. I enjoy the results of tedious scrutiny in my studies because when you put in the time and effort there is nothing better than achieving your goals. You can sit back and realize that you are of the upper echelon of society because you have dedicated your life to becoming a smarter and more resourceful individual of which your family, friends, and community can profit from. ThatThe college experience first off is not what everyone thinks it is. It is not going to be sunny everyday on campus with everyone smiling and frats running around inviting you to their parties. It is just raw work. Everyone eventually gets tunnel vision in the direction of what needs to be done on their task list. There is an abundance of responsibilities to juggle and only the most prepared can make it through. In order to be prepared one has to be well organized in every aspect of life. Stay healthy, fit, spiritual, dedicated, friendly, and ect. Sounds fun right. To the untrained eye it may not. But for me it cultivates large rewards. I work hard and play harder. I enjoy the results of tedious scrutiny in my studies because when you put in the time and effort there is nothing better than achieving your goals. You can sit back and realize that you are of the upper echelon of society because you have dedicated your life to becoming a smarter and more resourceful individual of which your family, friends, and community can profit from. That?s life in college and it gets no better.

Kelli

The best advice I can give is stay on top of deadlines and ask questions. I have also found it very helpful to keep a folder with all the important papers concerning financial aid, loans, and scholarships that way when you need to know where you stand you can easily look it up. Make sure to visit the campus more than once and talk to students who attend. Find out little details from how the professors are to how bad the parking can be. Although these things may sound minor, most people do not think of them and its a big part of your college experience. Find out about volunteer opportunities on campus because many employers look for volunteering on resumes so it will help you out in the long run. Remember to have fun and be responsible. Make sure school work comes first before the social life but still have a social life. Talk when you need to talk and don't hesitate to make an appointment with a professor or an advisor if your unsure about a course or if your having a hard time adjusting. College is a great experience and you will learn so much.

Deonna

Meet with the faculty in that particular college program that you are interested in, and do they offer what you are looking for. Since what post programs/ jobs they offer for. Make sure the campus life is fit for you also because that is somewhere you will be at the next four years. In college will you see new things that you mat not have seen before so try to be open minded, and don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Check with size of class rooms, so universities have large classrooms and some don't. You also want to see what it is like around the campus. College is also what you make of it, so try to make the best of it, but remember you are in school to get an education.

Amanda

I would tell students to look into all aspects of their college. Everything from sports they enjoy to participate in or watch, clubs they want to join, and most importantly the program of their major. It's really helpful to talk to someone who went to that school or who is attending the school. Ask them everything you can think of! Another very important thing is to visit the college. A more enjoyable experience is to visit while it's warm outside, but also go back when winter comes. I think this trip shouldn't scare you away, but it will help you understand what you will have to go through when it does come. Also, drive around the town where your school is. Many students, at least at Wright State, do things outside of campus alot of the time.

Dane

Make sure it is a college that is diverse and gives you many options of extra-curricular activities for you to do.