Kent State University at Kent Top Questions

What should every freshman at Kent State University at Kent know before they start?

Ashley

I would tell myself to take school a little more seriously; college is totally different than high school in so many ways. I would advise myself to study harder and more often and learn to manage my time. As for my social life, I would have told myself to just be original, not hold back from anything and be open to meeting new people. College isn't about judging others around you; it's about learning to be open minded and accept and work with others that are different from you. Also, I would have adivsed myself to try as many new things as possible because that's how you figure out who you are, what you like and what you don't like. Finally, know what you want in life - not so much your exact career but how successful you want to be and set (and keep) goals to reach that.

Sara

I would tell myself major in what makes me happy, and what is interesting to me, rather then what other people expect me to do. Most people in my family assumed that I would go into nursing or education, and when I first started school I focused on classes first in nursing and then in education and wasted a lot of time in something that I wasn't really interested in. After a lot of soul searching I decided to try several different interests until I found what really interested me, which is art. Now I know what I want to do and am making plans for the future.

Krista

If I could go back to myself in High School the most important advice I would give myself is to never give up on your dreams. To continue to stay focused, go to college pursue the degree you have always wanted and don’t let anything get in your way. Friends will come and go throughout your life time. Your true friends will be by your side throughout it all and you will meet new friends along the way. Only associate with people who are going to make you a better person and never let anyone make you feel that you are not worthy or do not have what it takes to accomplish everything your heart wants to you to achieve. If you work hard and stay focused you can accomplish anything. Always believe in yourself and remember completing your college degree will open every opportunity in life you have always wanted.

Tearris

School is so important and the decisions that you make in high school will determine your future. I would have told myself to take school more seriously and stop focusing so much on the social aspect. Tearris, your work is important and can help you get scholarships so that you don't have to take out so much in loans. It's okay to have a large amount of friends but dont let them define you because after high school it's all on you. Any help offered by your high school staff, take the help and better yourself don't just sit around and wait for things to come to you. Observe and volunteer at different facilities to figure out what you want to do in life and so that you can also be well rounded. Be a part of more extra-curricular activities it could be helpful on a college apllication. Be a metor to others because you are smart and know what should and shouldn't be and your knowledge could mean a lot to incoming freshmen. Study more often and take the time to go over and beyond what the expectations of the class wanted

Zachary

Take things seriously from the start. Life doesn't wait around for you to get your act together so take advantage of every opportunity given to you. Even when things get tough everything is going to be worth the work when I have the training to make ends meet and be happy doing it.

Kal-el

I would have told myself to start building a better relationship with my guidence councelor. Get all the right information you need to go to the college or university that best suites my needs and interest. Even thought you are a proud father of two sons now, I would also tell my high school self to be careful about the decisions you make after you graduate. Have fun, be young, and dont put yourself in situations that you may regret in the future. Take this time to learn as much as you can in the major you've choosen to abtain a degree in and focus on that and that alone. Do that and everything else will fall into place like you've planned.

Shannon

The person I have become during college would tell the person I was in high school to not be so afraid to take chances. I would tell myself that failure is necessary in order to succeed; making mistakes is the best way to learn and improve oneself. I would also tell my high school self that people are generally good and not to shy away from them. Its important to make connections with people, for both career and pleasure purposes. I would explain that having confidence, being friendly yet resolute are the key to happiness and prosperity. I would summarize the conversation by saying, "Have no fears, trust in yourself, and be the best person you can."

Candace

Candace, it's almost time for you to graduate and I know you have major plans to attend a prestigious university but before you go, I have some things I'd like to share with you first, things I wish I heeded my senior year of high school. When it's time to step out into the college world, experiencing a phase of your life that you have never known, be open to new things. It is not high school so prepare yourself to study much more intensely but also take study breaks. Surround yourself with people of like interests and morals but most importantly remember why you are at college. Focus on your education and remember that your degree is not only to better your life but impact those you come in contact with. It may seem scary sometimes but always stay connected with your loved ones because they will help you transition from your teenage years into young adulthood. Never lose sight of your dreams, your ability, and your goals. Stay confident and keep on pushing because you can make it!

Sarah

Get up and go to class. Join campus interest groups. Don't sign up for those free credit card offers. Those are three things that if I could turn back time, I would tell my 18 year old self. I would also tell myself to just enjoy being young and in college, but also to be aware that classes matter, and that you ae the only held accountable if you don't show up. I would tell myself that its ok to change my mind about what I want to be and what I want to study. College should be a time for learning and new adventures. You can be anyone you want to be and you can learn anything you want to learn. Just make sure you get up and go to class, you don't party too hard, and you avoid getting yourself into debt at such a young age.

Christina

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself that high school isn't something to take lightly. I would let myself know that college is a big change from high school. You are just entering the world and you're on your own in college. I would also tell my senior self to prepare for the future and never give up. It will all pay off in the end.