Our advice section shares college
planning and campus experiences from students just like you.
Many students find the following stories helpful and informative
during their "going-to-college" journey.
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College-related topics:
Admissions
Following your passions can greatly help you in gaining admittance
to universities. Admissions committees want passionate students
to be on their campus because it makes their college more
lively and interesting. When it comes to the more selective
colleges, I can't stress enough how much the uniqueness factor
seems to play a role in admissions. Admissions officers have
to go through tons of statistically similar applicants all
the time. If we can't be the smartest applicants in the pool,
at least be the one who makes that bored admissions officer
smile in interest as he or she reads our application.
Atif Mohiuddin
College Freshman
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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Get Organized
My best advice for juniors about to plunge into not only
the world of a high school senior but also the world of preparing
for college is to take initiative.
1. Your high school counselor is a great way to get helpful
information, but you have to do research, too. I come from
a fairly small school; however, the workload of my high school
counselor is still very demanding. So, I had to make the most
of the time that I got with her. I noticed she was more willing
to help students when they were more willing to do some work.
2. I always kept extra transcripts on hand to use for scholarship
applications, I kept track of my school information, and I
searched for scholarships myself. I know more about my qualifications
than the counselors anyway, so why should I rely on her to
find scholarships that match my credentials?
3. I treated my time spent applying for scholarships like
it was a second part-time job.
4. Keeping things organized is very important. I kept a folder
with copies of transcripts, award letters, recommendation
letters, acceptance letters, etc., all the information that
scholarships typically request. I kept all the applications
on the other side, each page paper-clipped together with an
addressed envelope, in order of their deadline date. I kept
this folder with me everyday and worked on the applications
in my spare time.
Because of my dedication to the scholarship applications,
I now have all the money I need to pay for college. I will
not have to worry about my finances at all. Students should
apply for every scholarship that they are eligible for, don't
even take time to think whether or not you have a chance to
win. You won't have a chance if you don't apply.
Amy Hargrove
College Freshman
Trinity International University, IL
When preparing for college the best thing I did was to make
lists of things that I needed to do and prioritize them. Making
lists helped me to become more organized and efficient. Now
that I am in college I still write everything down and it
really helps me to keep on top of things and also not to procrastinate.
Procrastination is the easiest thing to do and the hardest
thing to get away from.
Natashia
I have been overwhelmed with trying to get all the information
I need to send (application, essay, etc.) to the colleges
I want to attend. I find that I am always so busy that it
is hard to take a moment to research and put together a timeline
to send this or that. At College Answer, I found a timeline
for college admission. It has eased my mind of some stress
and saved some time!
Thank you!
Shanna Ahrens
High School Senior
Leander High School, TX
This was our first year to go through the college search
process. We used a large dry erase board (you could use poster
board) that was set up as an office organizer to visualize
the work we and our student needed to do.
Down the left side were several dozen lines or rows, and
across the top were nearly 45 columns. Each column represented
a week. Each horizontal row, we wrote an event that needed
to be accomplished, such as submitting the FAFSA, or apply
for certain scholarships, and naturally, the early admission
dates for the colleges we were looking at. We also had campus
visits on there.
We then drew a box around the week that the event needed
to be done, and when it was accomplished, we "X'd" the box.
We could easily see what was coming up, and what was completed.
The last box was marked for graduation.
Beth Rutski
Parent
I narrowed my choices to six universities to research. The
booklets and paperwork were a mess in my box. So, I got seven,
3-ring binders from an office supply store for $1 each and
put each university (punching holes and inserting) in a separate
binder. I tried to match the binders to the school colors.
In the seventh binder, I put general advice and scholarship
information. When I can pick up any binder, I don't worry
about anything falling out.
Jason Duffey
For the entire college process, it's a good idea to write in
a notebook everything you’ve done for each college. If
you apply to four or more schools, you'll get confused and forget
what you did or did not do—especially with all the forms
to fill out.
In addition, schools can sometimes get annoying by overwhelming
you with requests for many different forms and ask you to
send more information because what you previously sent was
inadequate. Initially, it was frustrating and discouraging,
but in the end it pays off.
Ana Cheung
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Essays
Scholarship essays are EXTREMELY important. Often, a well
written piece can "give you the edge" over other
competitors. The goal of the essay is to make yourself look
good—to demonstrate that you have the ability to balance
school, extra-curricular activities, and community service
as well. A little humility can go a long way, though.
Rather than focusing primarily on how you are the most qualified
individual, stress the lessons you've learned through being
a balanced student. Let the scholarship committee know that,
while being in athletics, student council, band, and having
a 4.0 was difficult, the discipline, motivation, and prioritization
lessons you've acquired are the most beneficial aspects of
your hard work.
Finally, make yourself seem human. Quite often, a "Mr.
or Mrs. Perfect" doesn't appeal to a grader. Demonstrating
your ability to create solid interpersonal relationships is
an excellent way to show this. In college, the successful
student isn't the one who is too serious to laugh or relax
a bit, but the one who will study diligently and find the
time to cultivate personal relationships. It's just like everything
else in life—the better-rounded you are; the more successful
you're apt to be.
Philip Voss
College Freshman
Central Michigan University
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Campus Visits
My advice to high school students visiting colleges is to
get lost! Literally! Sure, campus tours are informational
and show you the nice things about campus. But take some time
away from your parents and wonder around. The campus might
be big, but most students are more than willing to help you
find your way around. Also, ask students questions. You're
more likely to get an honest answer and you'll learn a lot
more about the campus environment that way.
Nina
My recommendation to other parents is to get their children
to visit many college campuses at an early age. Most colleges
run sports/arts/robotics camps. So, whatever your child's
interest is, send them to a camp where they have a chance
to stay in a dorm and meet students who attend college.
Edith Abramczyk
Parent
Indianapolis, IN
In searching for colleges and later choosing a college, I have
had a few experiences that would be worth telling. One word
of advice to underclassmen would be to make sure you visit the
colleges you are interested in.
I visited my second choice first and fell in love with the
place. Then I visited my first choice and let me tell you,
I'm glad my second choice was good. I couldn't stand not only
the campus, but the people and presentation as well. My first
choice was a private school, and my second choice was a public
school. Make sure you visit colleges before you make a final
choice—it's going to be your home for the next four
years.
Vicky Fulk
I started receiving information about colleges when I was a
sophomore. My advice for when that first college letter arrives,
don't hesitate to find out about that college. See what programs
are offered, and what student life is like. If you enjoyed learning
about that college, make an appointment to visit. Be sure to
take a camera and a notebook (note your likes and dislikes).
Ask students questions as they pass by. When you're done visiting,
put the letter in a place where you plan to keep ALL the college
possibilities. More letters WILL come!
Tasha Wilson
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College Selection
One piece of advice I have for prospective college students
is never give up on your dreams. I thought I would never be
able to attend the private university I dreamed of going to
because of the high cost. My parents encouraged me to apply,
in addition to applying to a public university. When we compared
the financial aid packages between the two schools, the difference
in cost was not nearly as much as I expected. I'll be attending
the private university next fall and I couldn't be more excited!!
Amanda Scheurer
College Freshman
University of St. Thomas, MN
I received my first acceptance letter this week-very exciting!
But many of my friends received rejections or deferrals, and
it is for them I give this advice. Don't put all your hopes
in a single school. Make sure you'll be happy at least two schools.
It's like auditioning for a play. You feel awful if you don't
get in, but if you audition for more than one, your chances
are greater. I would apply to at least three schools, minimum.
Selena Beckman-Harned
High School Senior
Cary High School, NC
I am currently a freshman at Augustana College in Sioux Falls,
SD. Sounds kind of small to you? It is, but sometimes what you
originally think you want in a college changes over time. My
first semester, I went to school at a large university in Minnesota.
Coming from a town of several thousand, Minneapolis was a big
jump. I found very quickly that this was not the place for me.
There was a lot of pressure from both my friends, family, and
myself to do well in college, so when I went, I expected to
have a blast, have perfect grades, and never go back to visit
the little town I came from.
As the semester progressed, my priorities changed. My number
one goal became simply making it through the day. I hated
the school, hated the atmosphere, and hated the city. I've
never lived my life just working to survive before, so this
was definitely a new experience. At times, I just wanted to
leave and never come back, but somehow I made it through the
semester. I sent in applications to several other schools
and was able to transfer at semester to a college where I
wake up everyday wanting to be where I am.
The point I want to make is that you don't have to be afraid
to make a change in your life. College is your choice, not
anyone else's, so if you are unhappy, take the first step,
and do something about it. It's definitely not worth the suffering
(especially because you're paying for it!) Good Luck!
Patricia Willers
College Freshman
Augustana College, SD
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Selecting College
Classes
When it comes to selecting classes that you will take next
semester, a lot of students register for the minimum amount
of classes that they have to take for financial aid or scholarship
purposes. If you sit down and calculate your GPA as compared
to the amount of hours you are taking, you will see that the
more hours you take, the less effect it will have on your
GPA as a whole, especially if all your classes carry the same
amount of credit hours. If you are taking 15 credit hours
and you get an F in one class, your GPA will be a 3.2. If
you had taken 18 hours and got an F in one class, your GPA
would have been a 3.33. So if there are some easy classes
in your major degree plan, you know you can pass, go on ahead
and register for those extra hours—it will help you
in the long run.
Antoinette Mims
Sophomore
Prairie View A&M University, TX
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Scholarships
Start applying for scholarships when you are a junior so
you will have enough time to apply for more, see what you
have, and how you can start putting it to work. It is a great
feeling when you know you have everything ready for college
when you graduate!
Vicky
While applying for graduate school and checking out numerous
scholarships I found one that just hit home as mine. Then
I discovered you have to be recommended by your school and
can not apply on your own. Not to be deterred I went to their
site to find out who my college representative was and then
preceded to e-mail him that about my future plans and goals.
I then followed up with a phone call requesting a brief meeting
with him and asked if he would be willing to recommend me?
Guess what? He was more than happy to work with me and quite
impressed that I had taken the initiative and pursued this
opportunity. He is now my biggest supporter.
Pam Lewis
College Senior
Tennessee Wesleyan College
Even if you are a top student and have great grades, do not
depend on anyone to help you earn a scholarship—go after
the scholarships yourself! Counselors, teachers, and schools
don't have the time or the manpower to help everyone.
Ashlyn Falgout
Senior 2004
Destrehan High School, LA
My biggest advice to students who truly want to earn scholarships
is to start in your freshman year by doing things that set
you apart from everyone else. Everyone applying for scholarships
has good grades and probably good SAT/ACT scores. What makes
you special—have you made a contribution to your school
or your community? Have you stepped forward as a leader? Make
a conscious effort to show who you are and what makes you
special.
Joshua Rosen
College Junior
Georgia Tech, GA
My daughter Lisa is finishing her first year in grad school.
To help her through financially, her father and I were not
able to give very much support. What I did to help her was
to look for scholarships. There are a lot of scholarships
available but it takes a lot of leg work that she did not
have the time for. Locally there are many clubs and civic
organizations that offer scholarships—you have to find
the applications. I did this for Lisa and over the years she
has gotten scholarships every year. She has already received
word that she has gotten one for this upcoming year, thanks
to Mom for getting the scholarship for her!
Linda DeBry
Parent
I won a full scholarship to college by filing all my application
materials early. Often schools will award institutional scholarships
on a first come, first served basis — the earlier you
apply, the less competition there is. As long as you meet
the minimum requirements, you are in the race for consideration.
When the scholarship money is gone, it's gone.
Those people that apply for institutional scholarships late,
or close to the last deadline, miss out on money, not because
of a low GPA, or lack of high school activities, but because
the school simply didn't have any more money to give.
A good rule of thumb is to request both a scholarship application
and an admissions application at the same time, and mail them
off at the same time, that way you won't have to worry about
two separate deadlines, and since the admissions application
deadline is often before the scholarship application deadline,
you will have submitted your scholarship application earlier
than most people.
Antoinette Mims
Thanks for a very informative Web site. My brother went to college
on 12 scholarships last year. He won the Wendy's High School
Heisman for the nation. I had to drop out of sports my sophomore
year because of illness. So, I put all of my time in community
and public service. I didn't think I could win any scholarships
without athletics, but my decision to invest my time really
paid off.
My guidance counselor nominated me as the school winner for
several scholarships and encouraged me to apply. Again, I
didn't think I could do as well as my brother. But I did even
better... I won 16 college scholarships.
One tip I've learned as I filled out applications—the
very last thing you do before sending in an application is
sit down and read it asking this one question: "What
are they going to know about me from what I have presented
to them?" Many times I added info to target what they
were looking for.
All the paperwork for entering college is overwhelming. So
make sure you paint a picture of all that you have accomplished
during high school and don't leave out stuff you think isn't
important. You never know—you just may win one of them.
Brooke Brandon
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High School Senior Year
I've definitely have some tips for you future upper-classmen.
First, work on scholarships well before your senior year.
The longer you put if off, the harder it will be to finish.
Second, DO NOT SLACK OFF YOUR SENIOR YEAR! It is a very good
idea to try really hard and take the classes that you know
will be challenging. This will give you a good head start
for college. Last, but not least, visit colleges and get a
good idea of what you want to major in. College visits can
be very fun and knowledgeable. Be smart when deciding where
to go and make sure to get the most out of the college of
your choice.
Naomi Sherm
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College Applications
Sending in my college applications early was the best thing
for me to do. I've been focusing on my schoolwork to keep
my grades up, while some of my friends are struggling to write
essays and complete their applications. My advice: even if
you don't apply for early decision or early action, trust
me, it helps to go ahead and send in those applications early!
Emily
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Student Athletes
I have some advice for any student athlete: Don't lead coaches
on, if you know you aren't going to attend the school or even
apply tell the coach that you are not interested in the school.
This will save the coach time and allow him to focus on recruiting
other athletes.
Another tip, go on official visits in the winter so that
you can have enough time to make a decision on the school
you want to attend. If you contact the coach they will possibly
let you stay overnight with an athlete. This will allow you
to see the college from a different view than the typical
tour of the campus, classrooms, and dorms. Interact with the
students and see what they have to say about the coach, the
classes and professors, and the school in general. Good luck
all you future student athletes!
Jen Thompson
High School Senior
Baldwin High School, PA
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FAFSA
I must say filling out the FAFSA was a lot harder than I
thought. I had to know quite a bit about my parent's income
and I must tell you that filling it out early really helps
because you don't have to worry about missed deadlines. It
is a great way to get money for college and there's no need
to spend money to fill it out. Fill out the FAFSA on the Internet
and you don't have to worry about stamps or wonder if it all
gets there. Also you easily make corrections until the deadline.
You know it will be accurate because error checking is available.
So, you can be confident about your information.
Alice Ruth Kinghorn
High School Senior
Skyview High School, ID
Filling out the FAFSA seems intimidating. However, there is
not much to it. All you need is your parents' tax forms and
yours (if applicable). There is a deadline, yes. However, if
you don't have all the information, it's ok. Don't panic. You
can submit FAFSA corrections once you receive your SAR.
Alka
I am a freshman at Lamar University, I was really excited
about moving away from home to attend college. The only downside
was the cost of my college education was going to include
living expenses. I chose to live on campus because the facilities
are very nice. I received a Texas grant because I graduated
on the recommended level from high school, I also received
financial aid from the government. I am glad that we took
the time to fill out the FAFSA and do all the paper work,
it has paid off. The grant and financial aid does not pay
for all of it but it covers a big chunk of the cost. The rest,
my parents are willing to pay for to help me get my education.
Michael Christian
Freshman Nursing Major
Lamar University, Texas
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Financial Aid
Here's a helpful tip for financial aid—if you receive
your financial aid packet after submitting your FAFSA and
you still need more cash—submit a personally typed letter
explaining your family's budget to the college/university
that you wish to attend. Most of the time, the school will
take your budget into consideration and award you more funds.
Manda Mosley
College Freshman
Abilene Christian University, TX
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Paying for College
The best news I can give any incoming freshman in advance
is save your money now! When fall rolls around and you make
it to school the last thing you are going to want to do between
going to class, writing papers, meeting with advisors, and
of course, having fun, is getting a job. If you save the money
now it just might be feasible. Instead of taking all that
graduation money on new clothes or car stereos or whatever
you please (like I did) SAVE IT! You will be ever so thankful
once you get to college.
Julia
I earned money while in college by taking various odd jobs.
For people in my dorm who were culinary challenged, I cooked
for them. I rented out books and my laptop. I also earned
money during election time by passing out flyers. Use whatever
skills you have to start a mini-business out of your dorm
room. First, check with your dorm director so you won't get
in trouble.
Kalvinia Butler
My dad and I spent hours arguing about my summer job. He
told me I needed to work regular hours and get a weekly paycheck.
I was sure that I would die of boredom doing that, and drew
up lists of sums that proved it was possible to pay for college
by teaching piano lessons and selling doll clothes at craft
fairs. Dad just shook his head, but at last I got to him,
he conceded that there was one thing I might try. I spent
an anxious night wondering what he had in mind, convinced
it would be a "dream synthesis of hobby with paycheck." Imagine
my shock when, glancing at my piano the next morning, I finally
realized what dad's fabulous idea was: a juice glass, perched
by the keys like a barroom pianist's tip container, and bearing
a sticky note that said "My tuition."
Annelise Hansen
Senior
Lebanon High School, NH
One of my main concerns for college was how I was going to
pay for it. I had received a few private scholarships and
funds from my university, but it just wasn't enough. I explored
all my options including loans; the debt just didn't appeal
to me. I began to look into the Navy and now I am a proud
sailor attending the same university I planned on attending
with a full tuition waiver. It will probably wind up being
one of the best things that ever happened to me.
Desiray Villagrana
2003 high school graduate
Will be attending the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
As a teenager I did not know I could attend college. I was always
under the wrong impression that college was just for rich kids.
As a 37 year old, I am still working on my Bachelors of Science
degree in Religion and will then work on my Masters degree in
Organizational Leadership. College is for everybody who wants
the education.
My advice, go see the college financial aid staff and ask
for help. Most colleges are willing to walk you through the
process and assist you with your goals and dreams.
Ted Whitney
College Senior
Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA
I have to pay for college myself, so the first thing I did
was research my options. From there I filled out the FAFSA
and talked to my school's financial aid department. I received
a scholarship and got a small loan to pay for books. I also
work part-time to help pay for other expenses. Paying for
college may not be cheap, but by setting up a budget, I won't
be way in debt when I graduate.
Rea Saunders
College Sophomore
Moberly Area Community College, MO
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Special Circumstances
For low income families, applying for college can be expensive.
Inform parents, students, and counselors that many colleges
will waive the application fee under such circumstances. The
school counselor is who to see. Sometimes the school will
even help pay for SATs and ACTs. My senior would have missed
out on many scholarship opportunities had I not read some
very fine print.
Susan Cardwell
When applying for financial aid and scholarships, I ran into
the problem of my parents making too much money even though
my mom didn't have a job. She was receiving unemployment and
severance pay. I got in touch with my dream school and found
that all I had to do was write a letter to explain my situation.
In the end, I was awarded a nice sum of money through financial
aid.
My advice to everyone is, if you have some special circumstances
that might allow you to get some financial aid, speak to the
school and write a letter. In the end, you may be rewarded.
Sara
College Sophomore
Bentley College, MA
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Packing for College
I wish I had remembered to pack my high school senior year
notes. After starting college, I realized that many of my
classes were very similar to the collge prep classes I took
in high school. A good tip—keep all of your notes, especially
if you know some classes will be similar to the ones you had
before.
India A. Fox
Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis
Indianapolis, IN
In the summer many mart-type stores (Linens 'n Things, Best
Buy, etc.) hand out "Everything You Will Need In Your Dorm
Room" lists at the front door. DON'T buy everything they say
you'll need. It's not true. Instead, this spring keep a list
on your nightstand, and each night before bed, for about a
month, jot down things you used that day-tools, fans, bedroom
slippers, makeup mirror-and then use that list to pack and
to purchase only those things you don't own and will need.
And remember, there will be stores where you go, so don't
go crazy at Sam's Club buying the biggest package of bandaids,
or an army's supply of mechanical pencils.
Kathleen
Graduate
Trinity International University, IL
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Study Habits
I am very particular about where and when I
study. I find it more comforting when I am studying in a clean
and comfortable spot. I find it best to study between late
afternoon and evening. I can't stand much background noise
so I usually study in my bedroom with the door closed and
the window open for a nice breeze to come through. I do believe
that a breath of fresh air can clear your mind. A few study
habits that work well for me are re-reading notes, typing
them into a Word document, making flash cards, or participating
in a study group so one can obtain feedback from other individuals.
Madeline Anna
High School Junior
Liberty High School, CO
To help me remember and understand better, I tape record
my classes (with professor's permission) and type my notes.
I also keep an eye out for articles and Websites that relate
to the subject and share those with my classmates and the
professor. This is a great networking trick and a way to see
how the material applies to the real world.
I also ask my classmates to exchange their notes with me
and highlight any thought provoking questions or answers and
thoughts they had during the lecture.
I hope this helps. Good Luck.
Maria E. Acosta
College Junior
New Jersey City University in Jersey City, NJ
I am a sophomore in college and it took me a full year to
learn the importance of studying. I really did not like to
study by myself so I started studying in a group and I started
making "A's" on all my exams. That is because studying became
something fun and not a chore. I learned that a small bit
of studying goes a long way.
Michael Christian
College Sophomore
Lamar University, TX
Remember to concentrate on your studies. If you get distracted,
or slack off you will regret it later on. The first year will
consist of your easier classes and it is a good time to bring
your GPA up.
Erin
When I have to absent in a particularly tough class, I not
only get the lecture taped but I also get written notes from
someone in class. That way I can follow the lecture, take
my own notes, and reference what was actually recorded as
significant by the other student. This saves a LOT of confusion.
J. Van Atta
College Junior
University of Puget Sound, WA
Study habits that really help — playing Mozart CDs
and studying with a mentor or another student who is serious
about making the grade. Repeating out loud what you read for
your assignment.
Theresa Quednow
College Junior
MATC Milwaukee
I am a junior who attends school full-time while also working
full-time. I arrange my classes so that I have a break in between
each of them to review. I also leave myself a two-hour gap between
school and work. I find this time most useful for covering what
I went over that day. I spend a lot of time rewriting my notes
onto note cards. This is extremely helpful for time when you
are doing nothing else. I find that the method of repetition
tends to be extremely helpful. I have also maintained a 3.8
GPA. Always remember if there is something you just cannot nail,
ask your professor for office hours.
Christopher Brennick
Florence Darlington Technical College, SC
If there's one thing I've learned in my first year of college,
it is that you must plan your time wisely. Time isn't set for
you like in high school; you must stay on top of things. And
another thing: Do not take too many classes. I remember having
to plan my time almost to the hour during my second quarter
because I decided to take six classes and a lab class plus sports
and clubs... Don't get unmotivated!! By third quarter, I was
burned out and didn't want to work anymore. Make sleep a priority-a
top one. You will be DELIRIOUS after too many all-nighters and
a whole term of little sleep. Work hard, but have fun once in
a while. Keep your eyes on your goal. No bitterness...no regrets...that's
what I hope for the next three years. Best of luck to you all.
Michelle Giron
College Sophomore, CA
One of the biggest problems I frequently have heard and have
been a victim is falling behind. Most college classes don't
have periodic exams and quizzes. Instead, they throw two or
three major tests at you that can be disastrous if you don't
stay on top of your studies. Don't procrastinate.
Jake Hanson
As a 42-year-old college freshman with a 4.0 GPA, the best advice
I can give new students is to allow 2 to 3 hours of study time
per week, for EACH credit hour taken. For example, if you are
taking a 4-credit-hour class, you should be studying 8 to 12
hours. Believe me, it works!
Donna Wilson
PROCRASTINATION!!! I never knew it was such a problem for me
until college. There are so many clubs and opportunities available
in college. You will ALWAYS find something else you'd rather
do than class work. I can barely sit still and study for more
than 30 minutes unless the test is in 24 hours or less.
Find study groups early in the semester and hold each other
accountable. Get off to a good start and you'll have a great
college experience.
Precious Ruffen
College Sophomore
Messiah College, PA
I am a sophomore in college and it took me a
full year to learn the importance of studying. I really did
not like to study by myself so I started studying in a group
a nd I started making "A's" on all my exams. That
is because studying became something fun and not a chore.
I learned that a small bit of studying goes a long way.
Michael Christian
College Sophomore
Lamar University, TX
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College Life
If you are looking for a way to get involved on your campus,
check into tutoring. Many colleges have a Learning Center—a
central hub where people can come for help with school work.
If you are competent in a subject and would like to help
out your fellow students, this could be the job for you. In
our Learning Center, I tutor in Chemistry, Math, and English
and even though I am not much of a people-person, I have found
that I really enjoy my job.
Even if all you can spare is one or two hours per week, try
it. Tutoring has been one of the best things I have done while
on this campus. It has allowed me to meet many great people
who I would not have met, and it has provided me with a way
to keep my knowledge fresh and vibrant.
Natalie Hopkins
College Sophomore
East Central College, MO
One thing you must do as a college student is to get to know
your professor(s). That can be a big help in the future of
your college career. Many times, students just come to class
and think that's it. But it's more than just that! Taking
the time to know your professor helps you to understand the
class and the work better. And your professor gets to know
you, the student, a little bit more. You won't be just another
face in the classroom.
Kizzie Gooden
College Student
Jacksonville State University, AL
In terms of advice for rising college freshmen, you will
need lots of quarters and a pre-paid calling card. I came
to college with $50 worth of quarters which I used to wash
clothes, eat when the cafe was closed, buy stamps, and even
go to the movies when my cash supply got low. It took me through
the school year. Quarters are always good to have.
And also, a pre-paid calling card is good so that you don't
run up a large long distance bill—you will always know
how much money you are spending on long distance and you won't
get your phone disconnected for not paying. It keeps trifling
roommates from running up your long distance, too! One more
thing... a good thesaurus, MLA Handbook, dictionary, and organizer
are priceless in college.
Pridgen
Having just finished my freshman year, I have figured out some
things that help make college the best time of your life. First,
remember to have a budget! I blew all my spending money first
semester and had to ask my parents for help second semester.
Second, get involved! Try out for some kind of intramural, club,
or varsity sport! Audition for a play! Getting involved is a
great way to meet people and learn more about your school. Third,
go to class! Even though you might think it's not important,
class time is essential to how much you learn over the semester.
Also, teachers can dock you an entire letter grade for poor
attendance. Have fun and good luck!!
Joelle Ryals
College Sophomore
Criminal Justice Studies
SUNY Brockport, NY
Advice for the new freshman:
1. You won't always be friends with the people you went to
high school with, people change.
2. Go to class, no matter how boring.
3. Become friends with your professors, it helps when you
have a problem.
4. Make friends in your classes, so you always have someone
to copy notes from if you decide to sleep in and miss class.
5. HAVE FUN! THESE ARE THE BEST YEARS OF YOUR LIFE!
Abbey Helbling
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Living with Roommates
In regards to snoring roommates... earplugs are a necessity!
Natasha Kruze
College Junior
Art Institute of Portland, WA
When moving into a dormitory apartment with one or more roommates
whom you do not know—take some advice from experience—put
one person's name on each bill (e.g., cable, phone) or find
a company that will split the bill among the roommates.
When I first moved into my apartment with three roommates,
I was told that it was best to have the person who lived the
closest to the school put their name on the bills—that
was me.
A few months later when I was NOT getting bill money and
my roommates were out having fun, I learned my lessson.
Katrina R. Kilgore
College Junior
Robert Morris University, PA
During the course of my college career I have had two roommates.
Both of them I have gotten along with fairly well. The success
of our relationships probably had to deal with that we were
open communicators with one another. We let each other know
what we liked and disliked.
Also another big thing is sharing things if you do not want
something using their things. Let them know up front. Both
of my roommates and I have always shared everything from shoes
to shaving cream.
In order to keep a good relationship, you have to attempt
to get to know them and just accept who they are. Don't try
to change aspects about them that you don't like. There are
many valuable lessons that you can learn from living with
someone from a different background from your own. So do not
make judgments about the person before you get the opportunity
to know them.
Krystle Alisha Moore
Sophomore, Public Relations Major
Georgia Southern University
Find out ASAP the name of your roommate. Meet with them and
be BOLD in your expectations. First, find out if they are
smokers, drinkers, party goers, or givers, etc. and if you
are not, then try to set guidelines both can live with—lights
out by one or no alcohol in the dorm. Be honest with each
other, accept that you will have differences, and you each
need your own space. Do not expect to change the other person.
If you know your tastes and life styles are just not going
to be compatible, ask immediately for a new roommate. College
personnel will work with you to help you be happy, but you
too must be willing to make some concessions.
Jessica Gillilan
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Non-traditional Students
I went back to school after 20 years, when my kids were 10
and 12 years old. My kids and husband are so supportive of
me. My husband's job requires him to travel five days per
week so he's only home on the weekends, but with the kids
being a little older, they've become more responsible and
helpful around the house.
I was a straight "D" student in high school and now I'm a
straight "A" student. I think it makes a difference when you
are truly motivated towards getting your degree. I would never
have been the student that I am now, if I had gone on to college
right after high school. Not everyone is ready to decide what
they want to do for the rest of their lives at 17 or 18 years
old. I know I sure wasn't! I now love and look forward to
school—something I never thought I would say!
Jane Shimala
College Sophomore
Indiana University Northwest
I was a non-traditional student. I went back to school when
my kids were 6 and 4 years old. I drove 65 miles one way each
day for classes. I always transferred my notes to a 3x5 card
for studying for tests. Starting a couple of days before test
day, I would go to the university and study my cards while
waiting in the parking lot for a parking spot. It was a great
way to get a good parking spot and use that extra time for
studying.
Amy Anderson
I decided to return to college when my children went to school.
It has been challenging working out school pick-up's and babysitting,
however the feeling I had when I made straight A's on my grade
report made it worth all the scheduling ordeals. Homework
was a family experience. We all sit at the table now doing
school work together. It is a great time for our family. It's
funny how I look forward to homework time now.
Cheryl
With my kids growing up (two are in college, and two more will
enter shortly), it was time to study for a long-postponed career.
I had no idea how much assistance was available, and how wonderful
college would be at 40! The electronic aid applications are
a breeze, and many colleges have huge endowments after the stock
market gains of the 90's. Maybe it's time for YOU to think about
college!
Kristin Hernberg
First Year
Rochester Institute of Technology Physician Assistant Program,
NY
In promising myself to be "fabulous at fifty", I realized
I had never continued my education. I began looking for funding
thinking I couldn't afford college. Guess what, sources are
out there and people want you to succeed and will support you.
I am working on my Business Administration degree and will complete
it just after my 50th birthday along with my son receiving his
Masters!
Mary Clark
College Freshman
Baker College, MI
I'm a non-traditional student, and I've been fortunate to
be working for a company that provides tuition reimbursement
for work-related classes. Reimbursement is $1,900/yr, and
at the state university I attend, that was enough to cover
my part-time tuition. I have to work 32 hours per pay period,
and I have a family, so for my first years back at school,
part-time was plenty.
When I began attending full-time, I received financial aid,
scholarships (3.5 GPA), and student loans. I will receive
my BS in May, and am applying for graduate school. Many health
care providers are providing part or full tuition reimbursement
for employees that pursue healthcare degrees, and this is
an area worth pursuing.
Wendy S. Knutson
College Senior
University of Wisconsin-River Falls, WI
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