Bradley University Top Questions

What should every freshman at Bradley University know before they start?

Michelle

I went out of state for my education, and although I visited the school before enrolling, I wasn't prepared for the distance, with not being able to go home and see family and friends. I think prospective students should research schools, and maybe find a few campuses close to home and far from home, visit them, and consider how well they're going to fit in and how much they're going to miss their support group from home. Those first few months are key, making friends may not come easily for some, which can make the away-from-home experience horrible, and others will find it's the best thing that has happened for them. The parent's should support where they're child wants to go, let them know they'll be there if they need them. Students should feel like they're making a move towards independance, even if they're still depending on their parents.

Casey

Visit a lot of different schools and go with your gut. You will know when you find the right choice for yourself. When you get to school just make sure you get involved in as much as possible. That is the easiest way to meet people with whom you have much in common.

Erika

I would advise for parents and students to take their time in deciding but know you still have a deadline. Students do not need to have a set idea of where they want to go in life, they can find that on their own where ever they go, whether they decide to stay home or go away to school. Parents should encourage and go with their students to visit colleges so they can see where their student is thinking and how the school looks. This way the student will feel supported in his/her decision of where to go. the student should be comfortable when visiting a campus he/she should feel welcome not just thurst into the wolrd of another set of classes. Also be aware of the surrounding areas and where inportant places are like hospitals and banks and what their security force is like. You may want to check cell service too. Be ready for change, it should always be an enjoyable experience for both parents and students.

Brittany

Do not base your decisions about how the school looks or how many different parties there are. No matter where you go there will be parties. Base your decision one education. Education is the reason why you are going to college in the first place. Get as much out of college as you possibly can and continue your life knowing how hard you worked to get where you are now.

Rebecca

I believe that students need to understand the reasons thier parents wish for them to go to a certain school, but ultimatly need to listen to thier own voice. I picked a school that wasn't soley art-based because my parents wanted me to get a "well-rounded" education. Because I listened to them and not my heart, my school carrer has been quite difficult. Even if you don't know what you want to do with your life, pick a school that will give you the best options for finding that goal. As for when you get to school, the first and most important rule to know is to remember to balance education with fun. Your school work will suffer if you don't figure out how to play with your friends too and vice versa. College is supposed to be the time of your life, so learn what that means to you and make it happen!

Lauren

Make your career focus the main variable in your choosing, not cost. I chose my school because it's highly rated or my major, and has an almost 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} job-placement rating post-graduation. The bottom line is that you get what you pay for, so do not be afraid of student loans! Also, keep in mind the type of environment that you want while in school. A smaller school means smaller classes and more one-on-one time with professors, not to mention better equipment, typically, as well as having real professors teaching all of your classes instead of graduate assistants. A larger school provides a busier feel, because of more people. And most importantly, when you choose your school, and being attending, GET INVOLVED! Have fun, study, and enjoy your experience. It truly is life-changing.

Michael

In order to find the right school, you have to know what you're looking for first. If you are absolutely positive that you want to go to a small school, then look into colleges with a small population. Also, research your school. Make sure it can help you accomplish your goals as a student. Finally, look into the social scene; that will be the most memorable part of college. You're going to remember the people you met and the fun things you did in school, not the formula for a standard deviation from a statistics class.

Carolyn

A college should be somewhere you feel at home. You want it to be a place you will succeed and be involved in new adventures. Make the most of your college experiences by being open to those new adventures.

nick

Pick a campus that speaks to you and when you get there do not be scared to be outgoing. College life is what you make it and you can make life at college great or not so great so be ready to make life great.

Ashley

Finding the college that is right for you or your son/daughter is about the feel. A college may look great on paper but that says nothing compared to the feel. My first college visit was to the college I thought I was going to. However, the moment I walked onto campus I knew that I hated it. When I came to Bradley, however, I knew instantly that it was for me. I feel as if people will know the feeling when they experience it for themselves. The school obviously has to have the appeal of cost, location, and academics, but a lot of the decision relies on "feel". We were given five senses for a reason, we should use them all to make decisions that affect us greatly. Make the most of your college experience. Go to floor programs, visit the campus social atmosphere, and join many organizations. You will never have the opportunity to see a band or movie for a low price right next door ever again. Take advantage of it all. Do everything! I repeat, do everything!