East Tennessee State University Top Questions

First and foremost, I would advise myself not to take 8:00 a.m. classes if I could avoid it! 8:00 a.m. comes far earlier than you think when you have been up all night studying! Second, I would tell myself that even though college is more laid back then high school, I still need to get myself to class, instead of laying out to go out to lunch with friends. Third, I would make sure that I let myself know how much fun I can have in college, without having to be a party-animal, or waking up to a crippling hangover every morning. On a campus with 15,000 students, it IS possible to find friends who share the same morals I do. And finally, I would tell myself that in college, my quirkiness is not something I should hide, and that I will be shocked by the number of people who are just as unique as I am, and as fun as I am!

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I'd tell myself to hang in there and not get discouraged. I'd impress upon the younger me that college is an amazing adventure and learning experience. Attending college is one of the greatest events of my life because it allows me to continue my education with much more depth and freedom than I have ever been privileged with before. I'd tell my high-school self that seemingly insignificant decisions I make every day--about friends, about studying, about what I choose to do for fun-- matter very much in who I will become. For every high school class I'm bored or disillusioned with, there is a college class that will teach me, transform me, and open new worlds of interest and imagination for me. I'd tell myself to study harder than I've ever studied, because knowledge and expansion of my world view matter. I'd encourage myself to dream bigger dreams and never settle for an ordinary life. And finally, I'd tell myself not to worry so much, to have confidence in me, and to remember to have fun.

Evaluate what's important to you like how close you'd like to be to home, the cost of tuition, the size of the school. Those are three major things that can make or break your college experience. Research what the school is known for and whether or not it has your program of study. Once you decide on a school, visit it, look around, and ask questions so you know what you are getting into. Finally, get involved with activities on campus. It can help you make friends and keep you active. College can be a great experience if you make some good choices.

When it comes to choosing the right college, you must first know two things about yourself: what type of person you are, and what type of person you wish to be. Considering these things, go out in search for the right college with a full tank of gas. Do not limit yourself to local colleges and universities. While these may coincidentally suit you, don't be restrained in your ideas. Understandably there are more factors when choosing a college, but know that the fit is most important. Once you have discovered that one, defining campus, make no excuse for being inactive. Go out and socialize with those around you. They have reckoned that same school to be their perfect fit. Having joined those around you, embark on that journey to graduation day. Your degree will be a pair of shoes you must wear for the rest of your life. Acknowledge all factors, such as fit, cost, and comfort. Happiness is sure to follow.

Choosing the right college is a huge decision that should involve not only the student, but their family and loved ones as well. Look for colleges that not only fit the student's interests at the time, but also give them an environment in which to spread their wings and grow as an individual.

Look online!

I would say the most important thing to do is to tour various schools. The only way to learn about a school's program is to take the time to go on guided tours and ask questions. Once you have settled for a certain college, find out what all they offer. You should try to get involved in clubs and organizations because you will make tons of friends and make some memories that will last forever! This doesn't mean you have to because I have made many friends not being involved in clubs, however, I wish I was more involved because of the feeling of being a mentor to other students. Live up your college years to the fullest, work hard at your grades so Mom, Dad, and yes yourself will be proud, and have no regrets. This is an opportunity to build on the rest of your life. What you do in college will reflect what the rest of your life will be like. Why not go for it all and give it your best the first time around?

Visit the website, make sure it is easy to navigate because a lot of the resources you will need are there. Then go and visit the campus, talk to advisors, go to club meetings that you may be interested in or talk to the staff advisors of those groups. This will help you get a feel for the college.

It might sound silly, but when you find the right college, you will just know. Visit all of the colleges you are thinking of attending it at all possible. When you find the right school, you'll just feel it in your bones. As for making the most of the college experience, just remember that college isn't just about making good grades and finding the perfect job. It's about finding yourself, too. Participate in activities, talk to people you wouldn't have talked to in high school, try new things, take classes just because they interest you (most majors require that you take "free electives" anyway) and just do your best to enjoy life. Always remember that your grades don't define you. And, above all, have fun. You only get one shot at this life. Make the most of it.

Participate in campus activities