Youngstown State University Top Questions

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

keyarash

If I could turn back the clock a year, and speak to my twelfth grade self, I would tell him three things. One, do not be afraid to do what makes YOU happy and not what makes OTHERS happy. Your parents and friends will not be the ones putting in countless hours towards your degree, so make sure it is something that you genuinely enjoy, and can see yourself doing in ten years. Two, build better study habits now that you can carry on with you throughout college and the rest of your life; you will never be penalized for studying too much or finishing a paper early. Third, but possibly the most important, do not be afraid to make mistakes. The only way you can truly grow as an individual is through trial and error. As the great Franklin D. Roosevelt once said, “It is common sense to take a method and try it. If it fails, admit it frankly and try another. But above all, try something”.

Helene

If I could go back in time as a high school senior I would tell myself to remember to balance a social life with a work and school life. During college all I made time for was work and school and I didnt allow myself free time for friends and family. I would tell myself that yes college is important, but it is also important to allow time for myself, because stress can build up and cause a lot of anxiety for college students. I would also tell myself to get more involved on campus and enjoy being a student.

Nancy

I think that I was lead by my interest but due to my lower academic or lack of trying the ACT or SAT.. I thought I wasn't eligible to go to college and I didn't realize that the teachers were trying to set me up to continue my enjoyment of music on to become a professional. I don't know. You can't always take someone by the shoulders and say, "Look, I don't think you get it." You sing, speak and sing in a Foreign Language." You compete in speech and you should continue growing your musical foundation to start a career and to be a professional. It's like... I didn't know how to listen and pay attention. I graduated in 1988 and the ADD/ADHD wasn't being treated and I just didn't know how to make the progress to continue my academic focus upon graduation. My parents were blue collar and you did what you could and you didn't have to necessarily enjoy it. It was about working and doing your part and bringing home a paycheck whether you enjoyed your job or not.

Kinsey

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell 18 year old me to go where I truly want to go, and not not to just attend a school to follow a boy. Knowing what I know now the decision of where you attend college is a very important one, and it could very well effect the rest of your life. I did not choose my dream college, even though I did get accepted in. I regret that decision wholeheartedly and its something I will always look back on with disappointment.

Danielle

If I could go back in time... Hey, its me your future self. Listen i just wanted to fill you in on a few things before you finish highschool. Pay attention in class and dont worry about that boy that never called there will another one who is way better. Start thinking about what want to do in college and don't waste your time going as undecided, also start sooner, I waited a while before i decided to go back now we have kids and a husband and let me tell you it isnt easy, so go now while you're young so that you can enjoy all the activities college has to offer. Start sending in essays for scholarships, school isnt cheap and you only get so much in grants! Make new friends and get involved with it! Become that woman you know you want to be. Dont forget to give yourself some down time, go grab that book you have been dying to read for a month and get lost in it. Work hard for your goals so you can look forward and be proud of who you are and who you will become. love me!

Mike

It is important that you be yourself and never succumb to fads and irrational peer pressures. Know, at least in general, what you want to do with your life. YSU is a good choice because it is affordable, you can still live at home, and they offer complete degree programs, including a few graduate opportunities. Getting involved in social groups is fine, but always remember that the purpose of your presence on campus is education first. Build and maintain good study habits that consistently work to help you to achieve each semester's short term goals. Learn from your mistakes, but don't dwell on them. Choose your courses wisely with both academic need and financial capability in mind. Make some new and diverse friends, especially within your major where study groups and more effective academic bonds can develop. Understand that no two professors teach or test exactly the same way, so it is up to you to be sufficiently prepared and know what to expect from each of them. Relax and have some fun, but stay focused, yet somewhat flexible, on the ultimate goal of graduating into a life of something you want and like to do.

Pamela

The advice I would give myself would be: Be confident, realize your potentials, treat others the way you want to be treated, respect yourself and others. Build-up good study skills, listen to advice, don't discriminate without a good reason, be a leader and not always a follower, and be your own best friend by encouraging yourself. Don't beat down on yourself, move on from your mistakes, and try not to repeat them, if you do get up re-position yourself, focus and move forward. You'll trip if you try to look back, and walk forward at the same time. Smile at times, you'll have less wrinkles. Practice stress-free techniques and use them, school is challenging just like life. Stay surrounded by positive,

Robin

As a high school senior, I joined the US Army on the Delayed Entry Program. I wanted to go to college, but I knew my family could never afford it. After I left the service, I got married and started my family, and while I had the money to go to college, I didn't have the time. If I could go back in time, I would tell my high school self that there will never be enough money or enough time. I would tell myself that if I really want an education, I will have to MAKE the money and MAKE the time. I would tell myself to never give up on my dreams...that's what I tell myself every day, now. It's never too late to make a fresh start.

Nicholas

Apply for more scholarships starting now and put away all the money you make by working. There are different loans you with have to take out if you don't have the money to pay for them like me. I know you are saving for a car, but if you save every dime you make then you can afford the car and still have a large sume left over for YSU. While I am here, let me tell you that college will be a lot more work. Keep up with studyign and never let procrastination get in your way. Grades are money okay. There is no room for playing around. After five years, you'll have your dream job and won;t need to worry about minimum wage anymore and you can help pay off your parents debts too, but until then, work hard and don't waste what you have. Use your time wisely, and every once and a while, go out with your friends so you maintain who you are beyond good grades.

Annette

If i could go back to highschool I would have planned my college experience better. At my highschool there was not enough knowledge given to students about their college choices and requirements for attending a specific college. I would have told my senior self to get serious about what my goals for my future are and start working toward them. I have wasted some time and money trying to figure out what i want to do with my future. Having direction is important and I wish I had more knowledge about different careers before I attended college.

Michelle

I would shake her shoulders and tell her to listen to someone wiser. Telling her to focus education, even if it seemed boring at the time. I would continue to explain that confidence and self assurance builds over time and experience. That she would surround herself with others just like herself in college and be comfortable in her own skin. I would tell her to explore the adventure of college and experience what the campus had to offer instead of hiding away. To not be afraid of change and to experience what I experience now, so she can feel accomplished and confident than I ever did in high school. If I could just make her see through my eyes on what I know now, I know she could accomplish so much more and know that each accomplishment builds into a greater fulfilling life. After telling her that, I would give her a strong hug and tell her that I know she can be a great person as long as she lets herself be open to the opportunity and hope that she takes those words to heart. That’s what I say if I could talk to my past self.

Justin

Try new things and meet new people. Also, go the speed limit when travling anywhere!

Erik

It was a cool night, a slight wind in the breeze that carried the relaxing aroma of pie to the excited recent high school graduate. Tomorrow was the big day, the first day of classes. He didn’t know how he would sleep. He didn’t even know how to eat he was so excited. Had his head not been attached to his neck it surely would have been lost by now. He heard a noise, the door opening. A long, slow creek that echoed on for ages. The graduate looked suspiciously towards the figure in the frame, startled by his own, larger image. The college version of himself looked at him with a sense of regret in his eyes, chuckled, and rubbed his rounder belly. “Erik, whatever you do, don’t eat fast food on campus. It’s delicious, but you’ll end up right back to where you started.” With a nod the rotund scholar left the door frame and closed shut the door, leaving the high school graduate to contemplate the possibilities of time travel. And once again the familiar smell of pie relaxed his nostrils, temptation rising.

Andrew

I would give myself the advice of always studying. College is all about studying if you do not study then you will not pass your tests and you will regret it. College it is all on you, your teacher is no longer holding your hand through everything and helping you through every step. College is very individual. One big theing for me would be time management, make sure that you manage your time wisley, because college work will stack up faster than you think making things become rather stressful. high school to college is a huge transition, but it is able to be done. Do not stress yourself out right before you go to college because if you put hard workinto college it will come easy. High school was a good learning experience, but college is a big step forward. Always study, turn in your work on time, go to class and never give up. Put 100 percent into everything you do in college.

Delores

If I could go back and talk to my high school self, I would tell myself to make sure what career path I wanted to take, because it gets time consuming and expensive switching majors. It wouldn’t take six years to complete a bachelor’s degree if you would just make up your mind. I would also tell myself to not take out the maximum amount of student loans every semester, because you know what, they have a limit! I would tell my high school self to make sure I was involved in at least one student association during college. It creates great networking opportunities and friendships as well as serving the young children in the community. As a high school senior, enjoy the way you get to learn, because when you get to college, it won’t be as easy, but you can do it!

Alexandra

I would have told myself to study and prepare more. I really did not have to study in highschools so I would have made myself try harder. I also would have told myself to focus more and fill out more schlorships and to get a job. If I had gotten a job in high school I would not be having so much finicial trouble. Where I went to high school at was not in an over populated area. It was different then being in college. In high school I knew pretty much everyone there, but in college there are so many people you are wlways meeting someone new. I would tell myself not to be so afrade and to put myself out there and be the best person that I could possibly be.

Kelly

If I could go back to when I first entered college, I would tell myself to get involved more in activities on campus. Additionally, I would tell myself to live in the dorms on campus because I can then meet more people at my age. Another recommendation for myself that attending classes was one of the best decisions I made that semester. Furthermore, staying organized is something I definitely benefited from during the year. I would also tell myself to make sure to talk to professors for any questions I have about the class material. One of the most important things about being a freshman is making sure to take advantage of any services the campus offers, such as tutoring and peer mentoring. Although these services sound unnecessary until later in the semesters, they are definitely important to utilize at the beginning of a college career. For particular classes, which a student knows they will struggle with, tutoring is important. It reveals a student cares about their coursework. Peer mentors also help students figure out any other resources available. Even though I made some mistakes during my first semester here, I definitely learned what it took me to succeed.

william

When I graduated high school I wish I would have not taking a year off but went straight back. For any person entering college I would advise them to follow your dreams and stay focused and dont let the women get your mind off of the task at hand.

anthony

If I could go back in time to my senior year I would tell myself to apply for more scholarships. I would also tell myself to try and find a major that I feel 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} comfortable with.

Jeremy

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, some of the best advice I would give myself is to apply for more scholarships. At the time, I was not as mature as I am now. That was back in 2009. I would have to tell myself that college is expensive. Do not procrastinate. That is a big issue for some students. I would have to keep telling myself to apply for as many scholarships as possible. I do not want to be in debt for the rest of my life. Scholarships are the best thing a high school student can apply for. Seize the oppurtunity and apply for scholarships.

Jennifer

College is a fresh start, where few people will know you and you can reinvent yourself, but that doesn't mean that you should. Stick to your heart and make sure you do the things that you enjoy, because the friends you meet doing those things are the ones you will find are truly friends for life. Don't let boys get in the way of what you want- they aren't worth it- and the ones who are worth it woouldn't let themselves stop you from accomplishing wonderous achievements. I know you have chosen Physics as your major with a focus in Astrophysics, but change your mind. We have never been very good with math tests, and in college math that's 80{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of your grade. Take classes that interest you and find something that you truly love. Read a good book, your favorite book, and take inspiration from its pages to live a happy college life and to find a career path that you will truly love. Don't let the good things slip away, but more than that don't cling to the bad for stabilities sake. You are worth more than the bad.

Carly

Knowing what I know now about college life and making the transition, the advice I'd give myself as if I were still a high school senior is mainly to prepare early and get focused right away. I feel that the actual transition I made was a rather smooth one with only a few bumps. I would advise my younger self to ask more questions and to research anything and everything pertaining to registration, parking, buying books, etc. I feel like these were the only areas that I felt a tad behind on. The other piece of advice, which would be the most important, is to manage my time effectively and leave adequate time to study and prepare for exams. I would say that taking the extra time to prepare and actually educate myself in and out of the classroom would be the most helpful in succeeding.

Donna

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to do as many scholarships as possible all year round and every year. The scholarships I do, the greater the chance I have at paying for my education. I have many years of college ahead of me. I applied for over 50 scholarships in high school, but I should have continued to apply after. I would tell myself to not count on every scholarship being renewed. I would tell myself to prepare for college ahead of time, by working harder in my maths and sciences. I would tell myself to explore other universities before just picking Youngstown State because it is close to home. I would tell myself to work harder to find jobs and save all my money for school. I would tell myself to not worry about the little things in life and focus on my future. I would tell myself to not let anyone else influence where I go to school or what to major in. I would tell myself to set goals and always do whatever it takes to succeed in life.

Sana

I would advice them to make sure that they have made sure they have finished things early so if there are any problems they are able to go back and fix them. I also advice them to apply for as many schoalrships and financial aid as possible cause it is hard to pay for college. I also advice that the students should get as much guidance in choosing there classes, it will be easier to know where you are headed in ther future.

Kathryn

As a seasoned college student, I would tell my high school self to do better in school and apply for scholarships early. The better I would've done in high school, the easier it would have been for me to transition. In turn, I would have been able to apply for more scholarships. I would probably tell my self to save my money during high school, as well. I noticed a lot of students doing volunteer work during my college years, and I wish I would have done that in high school because it would have not only given me more fulfillment personally, but I would be able to put that on the college application. Looking back, I would have definitely done things a lot different. I made many mistakes with money, deciding on a college major, and life in general. Everyone tells you to do good in high school, but never really gives a reason worth listening to. I hope high school students now are making more of an effort towards saving and studying for college.

Keli

If I were a high school senior, the advise I would give my self is to stay in school and surround yourself with like minded, serious students. It is very easy to get distracted from your education when the college social scene has a huge influence on young adults. Next, I would encourage myself to be active in the college social academic scene. Participating in rallies, sports, clubs and study groups are very rewarding and keeps your mind focused on your goal of obtaining a degree. Finally, I would advise not to be discourage by tution costs. There are many ways to help pay for college, such as sholarships, grants and loans. If taking a loan to pay for college, only borrow what you need to keep post graduation debt low. Education is one of the important investments a person can make in themselves, and it should not be abandoned because of simple diversions that life throws at you.

Erin

At one point or another, everyone has thought to themselves, 'if i can go back in time, i would do things much differently'. I myself have thought this same thought. As a high school senior, I didn't exaclty have the most helpful parents. They did not attend college so they really didn't know how to help me. I was on my own. So knowing what I know now, I would go back in time when I was a high school senior and be my own advisor. I would inform myself to get an advisor, devise a schedule that will allow me to graduate in four years, but most importanatly I would tell myself to job shadow as many jobs as I can. Any job that sounded interesting to me, I would job shadow because that is the only way you know if you would enjoy making that a career. If I was able to go back in time to inform myself of what will happen if these three things were not implemented I would be explaining everything that i went through, transfering schools, changing majors, ultimately learning how to survive college by myself.

Kayleena

If I could give any advice to myself as a high school senior, it would be to save all the money that I made then. In my third year of college, I realize that the toughest part is working full-time and being a full-time student. School is the most important thing and is my number one priority, but if I'm not working full-time, there is no school. I've made it this far, but I'd be a lot les stressed if I didn't have to work 40 hours a week just to make ends meet.

Angela

If I could advise my 17-year-old high school senior self on her (my) upcoming transition to college life using 20/20 hindsight, my main piece of advice would be “Don’t schedule 8:00 AM classes.” The reality is, most of your college social life happens at night, and that doesn’t necessarily mean you will always be drinking. In a college dorm environment, there are simply people around all the time. You’ll forge deep friendships in the wee hours of the morning, and spend and equal number of those pre-dawn hours polishing up assignments due the following day. 8:00 AM classes are often a hindrance to these efforts, and you have to sleep sometime. So, do yourself a favor and opt for the 9:00 and 10:00 AM classes. You’ll still graduate in 4 years, Summa Cum Laude.

Lacey

As a high school student I was in need of discipline. I did not want to be in school and did not do well. I had a hard time figuring out my place in the world. I didn't put too much thought in to my future. I didn't think school had much to offer. I dropped out my senor year. Now I am 31 years old and after 11 years, I have found the importance of going to school. I have a strong desire to graduate and take my place among society's professionals. I have worked many jobs and ultimately found that I aspire to have stable career in accounting. This is something that I have always wanted to do but lacked the discipline and motivation that, for me, came with time and experience. Now, I have gone back and gotten my GED and getting a 4.0 in collage. I would tell my high school self: "Things may not always go as planned but you will get to where you need to be. Your unconventional ways of going about it will make you stronger when you do arrive. You are much stronger that you think.”

Elizabeth

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself go to college first. It would save you a tramendous amount of heartache. I was tempted right out of high school with a job that paid well for an eighteen year old kid. I took that job and did not go to college. I wish now, I would have waited on that job and had gone to college. I am not a 33 year old mother of two boys and I am in school again. I enjoy what I am doing now and I know that when I have my degree, it will help my family in more ways than one.

Monica

When I was a senior, the advice I wish I would have been given that i realize now is to never let others bring me down. I was bullied a lot in my high school years and I let it get to me. I was to the point where I thought I was no longer wanted on this earth and that it was time for me to go. I had many thoughts about committing suicide and thinking back now, I should have never gotten to that point. I should not have let those bullies get to me like how I did. I finally decided to go to the doctor and help myself before things got worse. From then on I told myself to only have good thoughts on life and I realized that people loved me and would not want me to leave their lives, so I put the past behind me and moved forward with my life and i couldn't be any happier.

Jenna

Relax. Change and new things can be scary and stressful, but you're going to be fine. Take on college with an open mind and a positive attitude. You will get out of this experience what you put into it. Just do your best, keep your goals in mind, and don't be afraid to ask for help or guidance if you need it. Think back to your first day of high school: You worried about finding your friends, finding your locker, finding your classes, and what the teachers would be like. After a week though, those worries were gone. You adjust. Just like you will in college. Your first days of classes will come and you will see that it was nothing worth worrying over. In fact, you may even come to enjoy it.

Kendra

The advice that I would give my high school self is that when you come to college, you can't worry about anybody else but yourself. You are out here for one reason and one reason only, and that is to get a decent education, your degree so you can have a better life for yourself and your future family. If you come to college with out a gameplan and your priorities together, you will fail. This is not the time to party nor is it the time to be involve in petty disagreements that can result you getting dismissed from the campus. Keep your eye on the prize and remain positive and productive.

Molly

I would tell myself to focus more on school. Set a goal and work on achieving that goal. Never underestimate yourself. You don't know what you are capable until you really try.

Ashle

Dear Old Me, Relax. College isn't what you'd expect. You mave have had a hard time socializing with other students in high school, but there's less pressure of making friends in college. Most students in college are more worried about their education than what other's are wearing or who's the most popular. There could be some students who share the same dream career/ or interest outside of school as you. You'll have a chance to re-invent yourself into the person you wanted to be in high school, but in a more sophisticated way. The great thing about college classes is, you can choose the day and time for your schedule and all the help is there in front of your face so take advantage of that. Do not procrastinate. The internet, friends, or dating will still be there for you to enjoy, so make your grades your top priority. Spend your money wisely and find ways to save money. Do not procrastinate. ( very useful advice). You can learn alot about yourself in college by life experiences and the decisions you make. Enjoy this journey while you can because you only live once.

Viviana

The most important advice I would give to any highschool senior would be to take the time to fill out scholarships. There are a plethora of scholarships out there, and if one is dedicated to filling out scholarships a student could possibly go to school for free. I did not take time to fill out scholarships, and now as I am in my first semester of college, I am having trouble finding finances to continue my education next semester. So high school seniors, have patience and fill out scholarships!

Dominic

Dear me Please watch who you associate with. Some of your "friends" will try and bring you down. You are one heck of a guy and don't need any unnecessary drama. Keep studying hard and working towards your goals. Remember to save your money and realize there is a difference between wants and needs. Also brush up on your cooking skills in case you have to whip up a meal for a cute girl. Chicks dig a guy that can cook. Remember to regularly shave and look presentable. Keep up with your classes and don't let other things distract you. Work on your communication skills and networking skills. Please keep looking and applying for scholarships and keep the grades up!

Michael

We often hear study hard it will pay off not only study hard, but I say developed a study habit or pattern. Know what you want to go to college for before you register because you don't want to waste time and money switching majors. Keep improving your GPA this will be important when it comes to financial aid because the higher the GPA the more scholarships you can apply for to help pay for school, theirs people that's actually went through college independently without taking out loans and paid for school on scholarships. The GPA is important so don't go into college thinking I just want to past. How many go through college wandering if I don’t succeed I’m left with a enormous bill or if you finish your left with an enormous bill Knowing that your tuition is not only paid, but paid off will be a big weight you won’t have to carry going through your pursuit of college and graduation.

Drake

Do more focus on your studies more and have a better plan. Also prepare better for your future, a lot gets thrown at you very quick.

JENNIFER

If I could do it over I would advise myself to focus on my education because college is an extremely amazing time in one's life. It is an irreplaceable experience and I would tell myself to grab hold of every situation, participate in more ativities, and tell myself to relax and enjoy because the next four years will be the most fulfilling years of your life. I would also tell myself to stay ahead of your coursework, get to personally know the professors, and befriend more peers.

Judy

My college experience has helped me to understand the time management involved in completing tasks required to school as well as managing real life, and work related tasks. Through college, I have met several non traditional students who helped me stay focused and motivated and supported me to pursue other opportunities. Even though I attended a small college I felt the demands of working full time and being a full time student could be balanced here. Much of the faculty was sympathetic to the demands of a working mom and developed personal relationships that allowed some flexibility with assignments and attendance. I secured full time employment during the last semester at this college in a placement established by the university. Although I am not familiar with all internship programs at the university they seem to do an acceptable job of helping students find employment in the education field.

Stacey

The most important thing I havee gotten out of my college experience is the maturity that I have gained. As a part of the program I am in, I started college three weeks after I graduated high school and have been going yera round ever since. I have accomplished 113 credit hours in a year and a half. By starting school right away I was forced to learn to live independent of my parents and also quickly adjust to the responsibilities of being a college student. Study skills and independence are among the most important things I have gained from this experience; although the most important is the knowledge I have gained. The accelerate program has allowed me to learn a lot in a relatively small amount of time, preparing me for medical school in the fall. My college experience has been valuable because it has provided everything one wishes to attain by attending college; an education, friends, and the maturity needed to make it out in the real world on one's own.

Alicia

I have grown so much as a person from attending and completing my AAS in Applied Science in Nursing. I only got my GED and never had a chance to graduate from High School, so graduating college was such an accomplishment for myself. Now I don't want to stop. I was currently accepted to Robert's Wesleyn College to complete my BSN in Nursing, and I want to obtain my Master's in Nursing as well. I would love to become a Nurse Practitioner, or a Nursing Instructor at the local college where I live.

Kevin

I have gotten that going to college is a privalidge and that you can not take any semester for granted because when you do that is when you have failed your self you only live life once so ever moment that i walk onto that campus i remind myself that i am here for one reason and one reason only and that is to better myself

Harmoni

I have learned that college is nothing like I expected, but that it's ok for it to be different. I have also learned a lot about myself and what truly interests me. I have found it valuable that I attended because it will help me in all I want to do in the future, and also make me a well rounded person.

Ashley

Attending college is one of the best decisions I will ever make in my life. So far, the process has been overwhelming at times but luckily I've had help and advice from an instructor at the college. Without their help, I would be lost in the process. All the steps I've needed to take to continue my education have been completed without any problems or concerns. It's extremely important to me to attend college and further my education for myself and for my family. All the rewards that come with a college education is worth every struggle in the end. College is valuable to me in order to pursue my dream in a Nursing career. Nursing offers flexible schedule, excellent benefits and is great if you have a family. I am really looking forward to attending college and advancing my knowledge and skills to become a Nurse and help other people.

Kyle

I have attained more idea and ways of thinking about things going on around me. The knowledge I have gained from attending college has been useful to me outside of school, while having intellectual conversations with peers. I love knowing what is being talked about and how to respond to questions, with answers that relate to the topic being discussed. College has expanded my horizons and my way of thinking.

Deena

So far my college experience isn't much different from the enviornment i grew up in to my high school. I have had very good teachers who are passionate about what they're teaching and know a lot about what they teach. The enthusiasm in their voices make the students excited to learn and excited to be there. Every day I walked into my history class and wondered "what is Napolean's next move?" or "How did Germany's economy dramatically change from a the world's super power, to a country in severe debt going into WWI?" I always had questions and I was always proud to be taught by people who loved what they do.

Benjamin

Experiencing the college life has enable me to do more than I could have imagined and given me a foundation to take on the world.