Wright State University-Main Campus Top Questions

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

Christine

Take the time to find a university that can fufill your academic and personal needs now, as well as a university that can fufill anticipated and unanticpated needs later. College is a time of discovery, and transferring because of cost, switched majors, or a difficult life outside of campus property can waste precious time. Make sure that school has a little bit of everything. Make sure that school adequately cares about each individual student. It's a wonderful time to explore life, so ensure that you choose the proper instrument to accomplish that.

Tyler

Go were the money is. Be bold about what you want out of your college exsperience. Use college to exsplore.

Melissa

As a student and/or parent you need to seriously consider in what academic setting you are most likely to succeed in. If you tend to do well in classes where participation and discussions are commonplace, choosing a smaller university would be a better choice. If you dont have a preference or prefer to blend in and be a wallflower, a larger university may be the place for you. Additionally, if your child is used to attending a smaller school or is highly involved with extracirricular activities those things need to be considered as well. Finding an a place where one can fit in socially and enjoy extracirricular activities is just as important in finding a right fight in a place that delivers education. If a student isn't happy where they are living and with what they are doing, most likely they would not succeed as well in the classroom. One needs to have a well balanced life in order to fully enjoy the college experience and get the most out of it.

London

I would advise them to find a place that is at least 45 minutes away from home in case of emergencies or for those who get home sick easily. Even with that amount of distance you are able to fully experience college life and its greatness during your first year. I would also advise to save save save your money and take advantage of any and every scholarship available. Loans are nice, but you have to pay that back sooner or later. Plus Im sure parents would appreciate not putting themselves in debt and ruining their credit to help pay for college.

Brandon

visit them as much as possible

Kevin

Ask lot's of questions and try to talk to as many people who have been through the college experience. Talk to current students and alum. I believe it is very important to tour the campus of any school just to get a feel for the environment in which the student will be in. Once the student has begun college I suggest finding ways to get involved. Whether that be in sports or clubs. Also, use your advisors and your professors. Most of them are there to help you succeed so get to know them and build positive relationships with them. One of the biggest mistakes I made early on was being afraid to talk to my professors. I have learned that they are pretty nice people for the most part and can be extremly helpful.

Parker

Just have fun and work hard.

Chris

I would tell students and parents that they should thoroughly research all of the colleges that they are interested. I would tell them to look at every cost that they should expect that isn't included in tuition so that they know what to expect to spend on the college experience. I would also tell them to look at what is in the cities around the campus. I would tell students to make the most of their college expereince by becoming involved in something as soon as they can. I would also tell them to stay on top of all of their academic work because it is very easy to get behind in class.

Nicholas

It is important to find a school that not only meets your needs academically and financially, but also to find a school that will suit the student 's personal needs as well. It is not hard to feel out of your depth when you are in a class of 600 strangers or when your dorm houses more people than your hometown. It is important to find a school where your student will be comfortable with the surrounding neighborhood and with the students with which they will spend the majority of their time. It is hard to concentrate and perform well academically when one is uneasy about the living environment.

Holidea

The college life is a wonder feeling, just to be on our own, independent. But there can also be a lot of distractions, so make sure your paying attention in class and finishing your assignments on time. And always remember only you can determine your future and not your parents or friends.

Amie

When choosing a college, parents and students should look at a variety of different campuses. I wish I had looked more into the colleges I had applied to and even applied to more colleges than I had. The right college isn't always about if your friends will be there or not. It's important to pick the one that is right for YOU and also your major. It is also important to pick a college with in a safe and nice area. This is where you will be staying for several years, so you better enjoy the place you're living at. To make the most of your college experience you need to be outgoing. Don't be afraid to get involved with different school activites. It is also important to learn your views on different moral issues because every college student is faced with hard decisions. Also, don't forget to study hard and not party all the time. It's easy to take college for granted if you don't take it seriously.

Deborah

Visit all of the college campuses and google the college for info on safety on campus

Candy

Go with what the student wants its always the best choice

Michele

You should look very deeply into your intended major to make sure the college offers what you are looking for. Also, visit the school while it is in session so you can see the students and classes. While attending college, get involved so you can meet others and open opportunities.

Trenton

Never stop thinking about the future. Keep in mind that the next 2-7 years will determine the rest of your life. Also remember that there is no such thing as perfect, sometime in your life you're going to have to make compromises. Every school you look at will have some things you like and some things you don't like, but you will never find a school with nothing you don't like. But before you decide what you like and don't like about a school, you must decide what's most important to you. Is reputation important? How about the sports programs? cost? Only you can decide whats important but once you do and narrow your choice of schools down to 2 or 3 go visit them. Pictures can only show you so much and words can only tell you so much, you have to go experience and make sure it feels right to you. You'll never make it though 4 years of being uncomfortable. Never be afraid to ask questions on a college visit. A student that's been there for multiple years can give much better insight than a web site or brochure.

Bethany

I would say to any incoming freshman to learn their school inside and out. It will be very important later.

Stephanie

n/a

Cynthia

Make sure that you know your program will stay there and you will be able to get into the classes. Your student will want to be focused otherwise you won't succeed! If they need help see if you can get a tutor because they will be able to help.

Jessica

The advice that I would give to parents and students who are trying to find the right college is to choose one that feels the most comfortable and accomodating for the student, even if it costs more than others or if it is farther away than others. If a student does not feel comfortable at the university that they choose, they will never want to stay there. Also, they should choose a university based on what the student plans to study. For example, if the student plans to study business, they should choose a university with an accredited business school or one that stands out from the rest. The degree and quality of education that the student receives is more important than where the school is located or how much it costs. To make the most of the college experience I think that the student should live in student housing for at least the first year to help make friends and to get a good feel of how the classes are and what the campus is like. Finally, the student should take every opportunity that they come accross to help them succeed in their field of study.

David

Find a college or university that you are comfortable with, and can afford. Don't stress about going to college, because your first year will be a way to find out everything you need to know.

Stephanie

To find the right college all you have to do is look around and meet the people. Make sure the size is right for you and housing is just what you want. Don't settle, for anything you do not want. Find exactly what you are looking for. Check out the food and meet professors. Ask other students what they think about the college and what they do for fun. Make sure you will be able to enjoy your college experiene, after all, you will rememberit for the rest of your life. If you stay on campus, try to get along with everyone, it makes things more enjoyable. Make friends, because you never know who will end up being a lifelong friend. Most of all, enjoy college because youre are there for atleast four years. One more thing, keep up on your studies. College is expensive no matter where you go and you don't want to waste your money. Good luck and have fun at whatever college you choose that right for you!

Andrew

Follow your instinct. Do what you want and don't get influence from others.

Jessica

The best advice I could give to parents and students about finding the right college is to make sure to research and visit every college you are considering. I would also recommend participating in an overnight visit because you never truly know if a school is a good fit until you experience, first hand, what the school has to offer. Making the most of your college experience is very simple, take every opportunity you are given and run with it. If you are interested in something, try it. In college, never take one moment for granted because you may never get it back again. Seize the moment while you are in college! Take the reins of your life and begin to guide them in the direction you want to go. Most importantly, have fun!

Korey

stay focused from day one

Sarah

When it comes to finding the perfect college it takes a lot of research and college visits to know for sure which college is for you. I started visiting colleges my junior year of high school and this helped me out a lot. It is also important to know that you can apply to as many colleges as you want. Also, do not take rejection to badly. Rejection is a part of life and something you need to take lightly. Once you make it to the college of your choice it is very important to get yourself out there and make a name for yourself. The more involved you are, the better your college career is going to be. My freshman year I was not very involved and went home often. However, this year I am on the executive board of three different organizations and not only has this given me something to do in my freetime, it has also aquainted me with many people and has done wonders with networking for me. College years are the best years of your life, so have fun while getting ahead in academics and the work force.

Jessica

Finding the right college is a hard process, you should definately go and visit the school first and see if you really like the environment. If there are any programs where you can stay with someone or meet with someone and talk about the school I strongly suggest that you do so. Parents should help their children in making their decision, visit the schools with your children and assist them in making their decision but realize that altimately it is the students decision to make. For students making the most of your college experience you should join clubs, or go out and participate in activities going on campus. Get out there and meet new people, make new friends, step out of your comfort zone. Don't just do school yes your education is important but so is your social life. You will need a social life to have friends who will help you make college fun and enjoyable. Don't do anything if you are going to have it later. College should be fun.

Hilary

To the student, do you research and find a school that you will be comfortable in. Not a school that everyone else is going to not a popular school but a school tallered to you. To the parents, know you child/children are going to make mistakes be it with grades or life just be there for them and know that it is only temporary. Also, parents help your child out financially when it comes to school. Go to the bank with your child, show them the responsabilities it is going to take to be an adult in the real world. Show them how easily credit cards can get them into trouble and sit down with a banker and talk about student loans and repayment periods.

jherica

if you choose a school choose it for yourself and not for anyone else, not even the parents because their not going you are. my mother dictated my decision and i somewhat regretted it. and have good credit

Cassie

Visit collges and speak to current students at the college (NOT TOUR GUIDES) rather than relying on what the admissions department spoon feeds you.

Tiffany

Take your time.

Carrie

Go with the school that feels like a good fit to the student.

Meaghan

I would advise students to be realistic in choosing their ideal college. It is important to consider their past academic achievements and overall extracurricular involvement in high school to determine the appropriate size college to attend. It would not be a good idea to send a student to a very large school with big class sizes if they struggle with their grades. Maturity level should also be a factor in choosing the right college, because students have alot of opportunities to make new, exciting decisions in college. If that is a concern, then maybe closer to home is a better idea so families can maintain steady contact. It is crucial to set students up for success immediately, because it is very stressful to have to switch schools. If parents and students make the decision collaboratively and weigh the importance of academics, extracurriculars, and location the correct school will no doubt be chosen! Students that are happy in their school environments will increase their chances for success exponentially.

Erica

The most important advice I would give would be to use your time wisely and remember its a GREAT THING to ask for help. You want your college experience to be fun but beneficial. So take the time to get to know the people your living around and in your classes. You never know when they can help you with a class, let you borrow a book or anything. Also get to really know your professor during the first or second week of class. That way they familiarize with you and if you need extra help or those extra two points to get a passing grade they will be more likely to give them to when they know you have really tried to succeed. In that use your time wisely don't spend all your time hanging with friends and don't wait until the last minute to get to know your professor. Waiting until the last minute can only hurt you and make getting things finished and getting help harder. Its a balancing act. Set a schedule and stick to it. Take of the things you need to do so you can do the things you want to do.

Kathleen

I know that parents want to be involved with their child's future, but I would suggest that they back off and allow their children to grow in their prim time. College needs to be something that they don't force their children in to doing. Allow their children to want and education. If they don't allow them to see for themselves that it is valuable, most likely the odds of the child enjoying school will be low. If you wait and let your children decide for themselves that education is something that they wish to do; then they will push themselves to go far and beyond what they believe is possible.

Cynthia

Find the college that provides the best situation for your major. If you are undecided choose one with a variety of majors and opportunities to help you choose what you want to do with your life.

Daniel

visit the multiple campuses

korey

look at as many as possible dont just choice one, and do a lot of research.

Amanda

When searching for the right college, one has to first consider what they want out of their education. It makes sense to search for a college that is strong in a field which you wish to pursue. I am so pleased with my college choice becuase I am so pleased with Wright State's music depertment. I considered other university's that had higher academic standards, but in the end I needed to enroll in a college that had the best music department, that not only had a great reputation, but that felt right to me. Choosing the right college is about finding a place that makes you feel comfortable and challenged at the same time. The college experience is a personal one, that should enable students to learn more about themselves and in turn find their true calling. Choosing the right college is so much more than where your parents went to school, or which school has the best food. Its about finding a university that can offer me the best education in my personal field along with which school can offer me an opportunity to make connections with other students like myself.

latasha

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Katherine

Choosing a college can be a very difficult and overwhelming decision. The best advice I can give is to narrow down your list of choices based on what you would like to major in. Next, what can you afford and how much financial aid is available. Then based on that information, college visits can be scheduled in order to see where the student feels most comfortable. Is you aren't sure what you'd like to major in, I suggest you choose a university with a wide variety of options as to not limit yourself. Best of luck!

Nick

Look everywhere. There are so many schools out there and there are many that will work for you.

madeleine

Pick a degree that you will be happy with, learning about, studying, and devoting 8 months of your life to for four years to become the best you can be for your lifetime to come. dont just sluff it off because everyone else is going to college. do research, make sure you have finacial aid, talk to your room mate and learn some true people skills before you go to school, dont go to school because of a person, be open and excited for new things to come. go to school, because you want to

Joe

I would highly recommend for anynew incoming students should go to more of a well-known state school, but mostly to move out and live on there own. This way, they are experiencing independence, will force them to meet new people, and allows them to explore and experience new things/opportunities.

Elista

First I would advise to make a list of priority characteristics the student is looking for in a college. The list could include such things as size, cost (how to pay), programs of study, housing, proximity to home, sports programs, and social interactions at the school. Once the list is made with the most important characteristics put first, try to find a few colleges that meet the requirements of the list in the best ways. The student should then visit those campuses, and if still satisfied with the choices, send in the applications for those schools. Then wait to see which ones accept the applicant and chose the best one. To do all of these steps properly it is important to begin early. Waiting until the end of their senior year in high school doesn't give the student enough time to make a well informed decision. Beginning early is also important because many colleges' deadlines are early in the year, and so is the FAFSA. To make the most of the college experience I would suggest joining a club the student has an interest in. Also balancing fun and study is important to being a successful and happy student.

Jenna

You have to find a school that really makes you happy because if you're not excited about your school, you won't be excited about your schoolwork either, and it is much easier and much more common to flunk out than people think.

John

Location is everything. I, from experience, DEFINITELY encourage anyone to go to school at least two hours away from where they're from. I have learned and grown so much just by being on my own, not knowing anyone, and now my phonebook has over 500 numbers! I've learned so much about people, go with the setting you want, but I do recommend moving off on your own, it is a good way to learn about life.

Jessica

Choosing the right college for what a students wants to do can be a very difficult challenge for both the student and parent/s involved in the decision. The best way to choose any school is to visit the campus and take tours to every college of intrest before applying and/or accepting. I believe that chooing the college this way will make it the best college experience. Campus tours will allow the future college student to become aquainted with the campus along with being able to get a hands on feel of what is offered. Asking questions and having them answered will also help in making the right college choice. Quesitons as in whether or not the college has the focus needed on an intended major; if housing is available on campus and/or nearby; or asking if there are any student organizations for an intended major. I believe that asking thesequestions and getting all the right answers you are looking for will allow students to choose the right college for them and also get the best experience wanted.

Baeksun

One advice that I would give parents and/or students about finding the right college and making the most of the college experience is to know what you want to do in your life after college. Many people change their major and I feel that changing your major can be a minus when it comes to graduation and finacial needs. When a student changes a major, it might delay his graduation because those classes that he took for his other major would no longer be needed. This means he has to take new classes for his new major, which needs more time, effort, and money. Knowing your final goal before chosing a college is very important to me. I wish i knew that before i graduated from high school. To find the right college and make the most of college experience is knowing what you really want to do.

Benjamin

The best advice I can give to parents and students about finding the right college and making the most of the college experience is to visit the school(s) you are interested in several times. This will give you a better overview of the school, and you should be able to make a more-educated decision. I would also suggest visiting the school on a normal school day. High school seniors normally get several "college visit" days that you can use as an excused absence. Use these! It makes no sense to visit a college while they are on Christmas break or on a day the university is closed. As a prospective student (or student's parent), you want to see the university and the students there in their normal setting. It is best to see how the students of the college interact on a normal day. While you are there, it would be good to sit-in on a class or two, and see how lessons are taught and how students react to questions. Are they lively and upbeat or dull and bored? Overall, it is important to visit colleges to make the best choice for you.

Melissa

Finding the right college and making the most of the college experience are two vastly different aspects of this time of a student's life. Finding the right college involves having a general idea of one's life goals at 18 years old. This can be difficult for some, like myself. Therefore looking into colleges that offer a broader spectrum of options or classes that are accepted by other colleges is extremely important. Making the most of the college experience is specific to the personality of the student. Some might find happiness in making new friends and meeting new people. Others will find that being involved in the campus life gives them an edge. After not participating in any part of my college experience, getting involved was the best thing I have ever done. It has given me a new direction to my life, one that makes more sense than any others. Faculty and staff tend to recognize, assist and respond to those that are involved differently and more than if one is not involved. In addition, students are given that many more people for references, advice and mentor opportunities. College is what you make of it in the end.