Central Piedmont Community College Top Questions

What should every freshman at Central Piedmont Community College know before they start?

Matthew

I would tell myself to save more money and build credit. I have taken the money I have earned for granted, as well as the importance of having credit, good credt. Being someone who pays for their own education out of pocket, I could be further along with my studies had I been able to afford more classes. Additionally, I am currently lacking a reliable means of transportation to school. If I had began building credit at a young age, I could get a better loan to buy a reliable vehicle. Affording college, and a reliable means to get there, are two struggles I am currently having. I would be able to concentrate even more, had I told myself this information in high school.

Jamie Colleen

I didn't take the whole process very seriously, and missed scholarship application deadlines, and I just didn't really try. If I could go back, then I would apply to many, many more scholarships and would have tried to go to a university instead of a community college. I feel like I would have a better experience at a university, and would have been able to make a lot more friends easier. I regret not taking things as seriously as I should of, and I learned my lesson. I should have pushed myself to do what it took to go to the school I have always wanted to go to.

Preston

If I were to go back I would tell myself that it's going to be really tough at first. Class schedules will be confusing, you'll get lost a few times and it'll be hard to make friends at first. But you just need to be strong and know that things will get better. Dont be afraid to go to club meetings or speak up in conversations. Its ok to be unsure about things, but dont let it get in your way of moving forward. Lifes journey is just beginning, its ok to take it easy and get your footing before you continue. Theres a long road ahead and its important to not stress too much about it and just enjoy life in the moment.

Angelica

"Don't change a thing." The challenging experiences that I endured and brought upon myself since high school have molded me into a revolutionist. My scholastics were in turn put on hold, but during this time I became educated in the courses of life. I am seasoned with the knowledge of the struggle to survive. The freedom of college students demands time management and responsibility. Everyone develops differently, and this process determines our futures. Adversity developed me into the adult I had to be to recognize my purpose in the biochemical/physical and nutrition fields. I'm a dreamer of excellence, and I believe it starts and ends with nourishing, not poisoning, our bodies. The many evils of our world have consistently drawn our attention away from the most detrimental one: disrespecting our bodies. The exponential growth of our population has pushed our industries into mass production of the cheapest "food" products that can be manufactured and it is killing us. The obesity epidemic is a result of our relationship with these "foods." We are addicts, and I was an addict once too. The constant battle with a process that is necessary for life is deep, but I can help.

becky

to always keep a good altitude and do well in school and also respect each one

Eanna

The advice I would give myself about college life and making the transition includes better planning, build a relationship with staff, make friends before you get to campus, and become familiar with the area. I was definitely unprepared my first day! I didn’t have lunch or any snacks, so I was hungry all day. That hunger was a distraction from listening to the professors as they went over syllabi. I also had to stand in multiple long lines because I didn’t get my ID, bus pass, or books ahead of time. Secondly, I would tell myself to build relationships with staff early. The people on campus are there to help you, so the earlier they get to know you, the more they’ll be able to help you. Also, I would tell myself to build relationships with other incoming students. You will feel much more comfortable if you have a familiar face in one of your classes, someone to sit with at lunch or between classes. Lastly, become familiar with the area surrounding your campus. Not only will that ensure your safety, but you will know more resources to help you succeed. Good luck!

Sean

Hindsight is 20/20. If I could go back in time to high school and tell my self information that would help me get through high school and to be beneficial for college, my number one thing would be to form good study habits and to not procrastinate. My study habits are not the worst but they definately could be better. I would tell myself to study more because studying more has made my life so much more easier in college and looking back in highschool i caould have just spent an hour a day and my grades would have chancged dramatically. I would tell my self not to procrastinate because procrastinating in college could be the death of you and you do not want to be behind at all. In highscool I was always stressed out over work because i put it off until the last second and now that I dont and try and get my work done as soon as I get it and life is just easier because you do not have to worry about assignments all the time.

Jessica

I would have told myself to never take that college break. Even though it might seem like a good idea, you will just be putting yourself behind in life. I would have also told myself to be better with your credit and to save money, because going to college has a huge opportunity cost when it comes to your time and finances. And last but not least to just hang in there, that it will all be worth it in the long run.

Katanah

Upon graduating high school in May of 1999 I joined the US Navy. If I could do things over I would have went to college. The advice I would give myself is that a college education is very important. Everyone wants to make money and having the knowledge is power and will allow anyone to earn a higher income. Take the time to study. Dont rush the process, research a good accredited university or community college and attend, its many for profit schools that costs thousands of dollars and aren't accredited. Research scholarship and grants, avoid student loans unless absolutely necessary. Prioritize all daily tasks to be organized which will lead to success! Meet friends and don't be afraid to ask for help when needed.

Jacquelyn

Dear, Jacquelyn, Now that you are a senior in high school, you are wondering about your future and what lies ahead of you. I want you know that your decision to go to college is great and this dream will become a reality for you. I know that you are contantly dreaming about going away to school. You're not so sure if this will ever happen because, you didn't make the best grades in high school to qualify for top rated colleges, or earn scholarships to pay for your college education. I'm here to let you know that all is well because, I am you in the future. Your dream of an education and a rewarding career will happen. You see, the secret to achieving your goals are in the following: One, keep your options open. Your decision to go to a community college is not a bad choice. Taking this route, will allow you to earn a higher GPA and earn scholarships. Two, always ask questions and seek out information. You will have so much support from people who will guide you and serve you as mentors. These secrets is just the beginning of your success.