Houston Baptist University Top Questions

What should every freshman at Houston Baptist University know before they start?

Laci

I would tell students to get involved. This is a small school made currently of a lot of commuters so it's easy to fade away in the background. I went to Oklahoma Baptist University for two years before this school and I wasn't involved hardly at all, except on the golf team. At this school, I have become involved in the American Marketing Association, of which I am the VP, I am on the golf team, I teach a class as a peer leader, and I am a member of SIFE. Despite my involvement, I have still had time to make a 4.0. I think being involved actually helps grades. It has made all the difference for me, of this I am sure. It is a good school, but it is important to be on top of things and know what you want to do at least by your junior year and figure out yourself how to go about getting it. It is important to be responsible and self reliant, but I think that is true anywhere.

Jamie

In order to find the right college, the students need to examine themselves and know their beliefs and values, and research what colleges meet that criteria. Many people worry about the cost, but all I say have to say about that is that my parents do not have a lot of money, but I have managed to go to college with financial aids and a few loans. Money should not be excuse for not going to the college you want, becuase there is money out there; you just have to find it. In regards to making the most out of the college experience, I would say get as involved as you would like with the activities on campus and do not be afraid to meet new people and make new friends.

Cammie

Life is what you make it, and so is college. Whether it's a diet of Ramon noodle soup for a week, or going to your first college party where there will be alcohol served, it all comes down to the choices you make and why you make them. Choose a college for yourself, not becuase your friends or parents want you to go there. Go there and visit the school before you enroll, becuase there's nothing worse then going to the school of your dreams, only to find out it's your biggest nigtmare. Don't be afraid to transfer schools either; just becuase you've committed to a school, doesn't mean you have to stay there. College can be a time of real self improvment and learning, don't short yourself by going somewhere that doesn't make you happy.

Matt

I would advise parents to let their children make their own decision on where to go to college. Personally, my girlfriend's parents tried to force her to go to University of Texas when they knew she wanted to go to Houston Baptist University. It is heartbreaking how hard it is to watch her struggle almost daily to pay her own way. I would plead with parents to respect their children's decision. It is four years of their life that they can't take back. Please respect that.

Christina

Go to a college where you will be able to pursue what you love best; not for the popularity of the school or its name. Ask around and get other students' advice/feedback. Make sure you tour the college to get a "feel" for the campus and staff/faculty that work there. Pick a college that not only offers the major{s} you desire to pursue, but offers it with the quality training you need to learn the most about it.

Liz

It is very important to do your research when it comes to an important decision such as where to go to college. At the same time, as cheesy as it may sound, you need to follow your heart as well.

Sara

Universities that are too small or conservative will definitely thwart the typical college experience; instead, it will be more like an extension of high school, especially if the student resides at home during their undergraduate years. It is understandable that some parents are protective of their children and prefer that they remain in town or even at home for these college years. However, if the student prefers to go elsewhere for college, I suggest they oblige. Unfortunately, I was forced to attend a college in my hometown and this propelled me to pull away from my parents. Noone likes to be coerced into a decision, especially if it is one that will last for four years or longer. Finding the right college does not necessarily mean Ivy League, prestigious, or even expensive. It is all about the right fit. At this crucial time, parents and students should definitely hold many discussions about potential schools, allowing everyone to have their say. Communication is invaluable to compromise and if a midway can be achieved, both parents and students will be more grateful in the end.

Nirma

Really look into what you are looking for in a college. The college that is right for one student may not be right for another. Look at whether you want small or a big campus and then further look into whether you want more emphasis on social life or school work. Over all just do alot of reading about the colleges you are considering and take tours to know more about them and make a informed decision.

Michael

hbu is awesome.

Jimi

Stay focused!