Hollins University Top Questions

Start early and make a list of what you want in a college. Do not follow what your friends are doing and keep your mind open. The college you least expect might be the one that is perfect for you.

College is a once in a lifetime oppurtunity, so enjoy it when it comes. It's amazing.

When I was choosing a college to attend, I've considered the one most important to me: will I be able to cultivate myself and grow? Certainly you get out what you put in, but it's not to say that outside factors don't have affect either. The second most important question I considered was how far away I would be from my parents. Family support is important no matter how much you think you don't like your family -you'll appreciate the help. Reinforcing my first important consideration, I thought of going to a school that was as diverse considering where it's located -even though it's nice to meet people who agree with you, you don't leave home/highschool just to go somewhere else to mimic that experience. Moving on may be scary but is well worth it for the lifelong friends you'll meet and keep.

To find the right college look for what you envision your self at in the future. I knew I wanted a small school with a intimate learning atmosphere, but if you want to got to large football games then a larger school is for you. Have no fear in visiting multiple schools and asking current students as many questions as possible. You want to know their opinions. It could also help to take a survey of some-sort but not neccessary. To make the most of your college experience, GET INVOLVED!! I am an overachiever and the Vice- President of the Student Government and I wouldn't change it for the world. I speak up in classes which helps professors notice you and like you, which comes in handy for recommendations and joining clubs and sports are a good way to make life-long friends. and trust me if there isn't a club you like, make one up. the great part of college is the freedom to explore classes, interests and so much more, so take it for all its worth. your paying for it..

Visit the colleges you are interested in!! The right school will just "feel right" the moment you walk onto the campus. The attitudes and tones of the people around you and those who help you out, give you information and give you the tour will play a Huge role in your decision for which school you will go to.

Make sure you choose a place that is right for you- not some place you think will please people. College isn't just about academics - it's about finding yourself and discovering the type of person you're going to be. You learn about yourself while you're in school, learn how you will act under pressure, learn what you believe in and what you don't. It's easier to do that somewhere that you feel welcome and feel like you can be yourself without fear. Academics are important, but becoming a responsible and self-assured member of society is more so. When you enter school for orientation, turn off your phone and unplug your computer. Allow yourself to meet people. Risk making a fool out of yourself to connect with other people. Making connections and learning where other people come from is the only way to understand other points of view, and the only way to be completely succesful in your personal journey of realization.

Make sure that you visit the campus first! It is very important to have a feel for a place before you decide to attend it. Don't rely simply on advertising -- ads can make anything look good. Consider the possibility of going to community college first -- I did. It saved me two years' worth of tuition and living expenses, and yet I will still be graduating with a four year diploma, at the top of my class. But even if you find, once you have an enrolled in a school, that it is not perfect for you, don't dismiss it outright -- get involved. Focus on your studies, but don't keep your head buried in a book all of the time. No place will feel absolutely perfect, no matter what the ads tell you -- especially if you don't get involved with campus life. Volunteering helped me to feel more in place, and I am glad that I chose a school that is so service-oriented. I feel that because of this, I have become less self-centered and more outgoing, characteristics that I will carry into the world with me after I graduate.

The best advice that was given to me when I left for college two years ago by my father. He said that college is what you make it. In addition, he said that if you don't like something, change it. I have attempted to live by this at Hollins University and discovered an amazing world of opportunity at my fingertips. So my advice to new students and their parents would be an extention of my father's wisdom. I would tell them that you should approach the college experience with an open mind and a willingness to change and be changed. For example, if you are unhappy with your college's club offerings, create a club that shares your interests! You will meet new friends and promote a new awareness of your interest on campus. Take the next four years of your life, and soak up as much as you can. You will never meet such a fantastic group of people as the friends you make in college. Enjoy every minute of it, and if you aren't - change it! Remember, Ghandi once said that "we must be the change we wish to see in the world".

Make sure you understand what the school you are looking in to stands for (ie, conservative or liberal etc). Find a place that as soon as you walk on campus you feel like you can call it home! That's when you know you have found where you are supposed to be and you no longer need to look! That is what happened to me the moment I stepped onto Hollins University campus! It was like love at first sight!

Plan to get involved! When looking at colleges, choose one that provides opportunities to continue the interests you had in highschool and also gives you a chance to try new things. Every school has clubs, activities, and volunteer work that a student can join. Larger state schools have a group for just about any pastime, while at small opportunities abound to play a sport or be in a theatrical production, even if you have very little experience. Talk to the professors and staff! The most important part of college is to learn, grow, and expand yourself. A faculty of advisors and professors that are willing to speak with the students one-on-one, to encourage their interests, and direct them to resources are invaluable. Find a school that has a supportive faculty. Experience the school first-hand! If possible, try the college out before making a decision. Many schools have opportunities for perspective students to spend the night in a dorm with a current student, go to classes, eat cafeteria food, and participate in extra-curricular events. This is a great way to see what going to school there is like! Remember: find a school that fits YOUR needs!