Dakota State University Top Questions

I've learned more about myself in the last three years than I have in my whole life. I've grown in my knowledge of myself and the world around me, as well as gained friends for a lifetime.

I have recieved many things from my college experience thus far. First, that you cannot be shy while you're trying to meet new people. Everybody is nervous, so you just have to go out there introduce yourself to people. Second, your professors give you homework for a reason, so do it. You can't make things magically come together like you could in high school. Lastly, yes, college is about learning everything you need to know about your future career. However, it is not all work and no play. College is also about finding out who you really are as a person and what you really want from life. I've learned this in my short college career. I go to school full time and have to part time jobs to pay for the things I need. If you don't go out and have fun, though, you may lose that fun piece of your personality. Who would want that?

The advice I would give myself would have to be to get away from your parent's house. I did not move out and I did not get the full college experience. I think all students should at least move out their first semester so they can meet people and grow on their own. I would also say that college is not as cheap as you think. There are a few classes that make you buy books that are a couple hundred dollars. Art classes are expensive also. You have to buy all the supplies and product needed to do your homework. The best advice I would give myself and others is to have fun and let loose. College is an adventure, so grab on with both hands and go for a ride!

I would tell myself not to get worked up about meeting new people. I have realized that it isn't as scary as I thought it would be. Also, you do not need to have a lot of friends to be happy. As long as you have a few close friends that give you enough support, you can make it through anything that God throws your way. I would also tell myself to not take too many classes at one time. This can lead to too much stress, not enough sleep, sickness, and grades that don't represent who you really are. Don't be afraid to ask for help. If you don't understand something, don't be afraid to go to a tutor, a friend, or a teacher. Asking for help in college is key because unlike high school some teachers don't care to ask if you understand.

The only advice I would give myself would have been to look into future careers more and try to better determine what I really wanted to do with my life. I originally enrolled at DSU as a Computer Information Systems Major, and now halfway through my Junior year I've switched to Computer Education. I wanted to be a teacher but didn't know if I could do it financially. But I've discovered that I'd rather make less money and be happy with my career, then make a lot of money in something I didn't want to be doing. I just wish I would've realized this in High School, so I wouldn't feel behind right now.

Dear Senior Megan, You made the correct decision. I know that you always wanted to go to Augustana in Sioux Falls, but you most likely would not have liked going to Augie. Augustana is an expensive college and Dakota State is more afordable. By working during the year and the scholarships you have been trying for, you will most likely be able to graduate from college without any school loans and that would be wonderful. Dakota State is a great school. You will enjoy the experience. It goes quick, so enjoy it and remember everything. Don't be afraid to meet new people. Don't be worried about your roommate, she is awesome! Also, don't be afraid to talk to the guy you will see during gaming night in the Trojan Center, you will find out he is a great guy. Don't be afraid to meet new people. But don't forget to study either! Calculus will not be fun, but it will be worth it in the long run. Take Care, Freshman Dakota State University Member Megan Fredberg

I would tell myself to make sure I get to know lots of friends and get involved in campus activities. I would also say that college goes by so quickly, even faster than high school did, so be sure to make lots of good memories with good friends.

Organize,Organize, Organize. Staying organized and on top of assignments and classes that are needed for graduation makes things a lot less stressful. I would make sure to tell myself to be prepared, to join in on activities but to put my schoolwork first.

I would tell students to think of what they want to do with the rest of their life and after that search for colleges known for that. Once you've found a great school that has a good outcome in your area, apply. Once you get there do anything you can do and just have fun along with your classes. Parents, stand by your children the whole way even if they change majors or transfer schools.

I think that the two most important things that a student or parent need to take into account are the strengths and the interests of the student. I think that if a student takes a direction in college that does not follow what they are interested in then they are more than likely going to fail, or have no interest in finishing their degree. If the student has some indication as to what their strengths are then they can then take the most advantage of the time and opportunity that is available by following their chosen major. In the end it is really not a choice that the parents should make alone, the students interests should play a role in the decision of which college or major that the student should pursue while at their chosen college or university.