James Madison University Top Questions

What should every freshman at James Madison University know before they start?

Sinead

I am a highly indecisive individual, so deciding which school to attend was a struggle. When I did pick JMU, I just had to hope that I would like it. When I arrived on campus in the fall of 2009, something clicked and I fell in love with the school. Even now, I could not imagine being any place else. There have definitely been some struggles, but the environment at JMU has allowed those difficult experiences to help me grow into a stronger, wiser student and individual. College, for me, has been a time for self-discovery. I came in as an undeclared student, and have found a major I want. I still have no idea what I will choose as a career path, but I know that at JMU I have the resources and opportunity to explore my interests and find what is right for me. I have met many other students and professors that have helped me expand my horizons and view the world with a broader perspective. I am discovering how to become the person I want to be. College, especially at JMU, is more than an education; it is a valuable, life-shaping experience.

scott

The most valueable thing i have learned form college so far is that i have finally discovered that i am good at learning. I did not do to well in high school, I never applied my self. Now that i am out of the marines i have alot more drive to succeed in life. I have been doing so well in school, and i have never felt so good about going to school and learning as much as possible. Going to college has made me realize that i do not have to settle for a back breaking job like construction, not that construction is a bad career choice, but i can do somthing greater with my military backround and a good education. I never reaized that i was good at math until i started college. I was really bad at math in high school, now i am in my second semester of math and i still have an A. Im excited to finish my education and see what doors open for me in the future.

Jennifer

From freshman to graduation, we are constantly challenging the limits of ourselves, and what we know to be true. A challenge that drives us to learn all that we can, and to always question what is suppose to be truth. Having a well balanced education is a wonderful foundation to start the career of dreams with. Taught to always seek truth, and justce, I take with me the courage, and determination to see my dreams through.

Sydney

So far I have fit in perfectly here at JMU. And it's easy to find your niche if you aren't afraid to go out and look for it. The classes here are great too, though I'm sure it depends on how willing you are to learn as well as your teacher. Overall 10/10

Mikaela

I think that college has made me stronger as a person, as well as more responsible. College is a big step up from high school and something I had to adjust too. It makes me feel good when I am walking on campus and sitting in classes to know I am doing something that will help me in the future; as well as make me feel more accomplished as a person. I also participate in a varsity sport and I feel priveleged each day to be a part of that. Even though college can be stressful and money situations are tight and tough, I know that it will all be worth it in the end; to earn a great education, to be a part of a team, and make friends that could last a lifetime.

Courtney

I gained a sense of independance when I started attending college, and I think this is important for young adults. I've also learned to plan ahead, and to make your future happen, no one will hand it to you! My grades, my classes, my success is up to me and how I handle what is given to me. I am not only getting an invaluable education that will help me be successful in life, but I'm also gaining life skills. I've learned so much about myself; how I learn best as well as how I don't learn and what kind of person I want to be based on the students I see around me. I think college is so important for every young man and women for so many reasons, and that everyone should at least try it! Its a growing, adapting, scary and great experience all wrapped up in one.

Tyra

So far, college has been one of my most tremendous transitions I have ever been through. Living here on my own is something I am not use to. Living with other friends and not with my parents is really weird at first. It has taught me to be really independent and how to do things I am normally not use to doing on my own. I clean my room all the time because it all is mine and I like my space to be clean. I cook for myself and am responsible for myself for once. Academically, I am doing something for myself. I am trying to succeed in whatever I do and reach my fullest potential. I have became much more responsible for my work and what I do. I think coming to college is a reality check. I'm learning to be on my own and not under my parent's supervision anymore. I love it and I am so thankful to be able to experience such a life changing aspect of life!

Lauren

Throughout the first half of my college experience, I have grown as an individual tremendously. In an attempt to gain all that I can from my college experience, I have taken a wide array of classes that have allowed me to view the world in a new, hollistic, and refreshing light. I feel that knowledge is power and is key to an individuals success in life. Therefore, I take great pride in striving to be all that I can be when it comes to being a successful and progressive college student. I have also established a new friend base while attending college that is sure to provide me with lasting friendships and many years of enjoyment to come. All in all, I feel that the essence and overall point of college is not merely to obtain a degree in pursuit of a luxurious and money-hungry lifestyle--undoubtedly the downfall of the occassional college student, but rather it is to gain an array of knowledge that is inspirational and motivational to you as an individual all the while achieving your dreams for a better and more fulfilling life--which I feel like I am well on my way to accomplishing.

Michael

There are many things I have learned thanks to attending college. For one, I learned that college is expensive but with the right grades, and mindset; grants and scholarships are presented to the less fortunate or the intellectuals. College has also taught me to be more responsible. My classes would start at different times and I did not have someone to remind me to go to class or about upcoming tests. I had to make sure I studied for my tests and did my homework. I learned that college prepares everyone for the real world. Many people cannot afford to go to college but the people who can go should know that it is a privilage. The experiences I received from my classmates and teachers have been very enriching. I have benefited in all ways possible. I have an A.A. degree which promises me a high income in the job market and a great job career in the future. Spending a few years in college will pay off for me and will do the same for anyone else that attends college. If not for college, I would not be who I am today and I'm thankful for it.

Cassady

I have learned to value my time and budget my activities accordingly. I have met many new people and trust that most of them will be lifelong aquaintances. I hope to become a physicians assistant in the future so completing my education is crutial.