Northeastern University Top Questions

If I were to go back I would tell myself to be patient. Not to rush into things. When you first get on campus you are overwhelmed by meeting new people, joining clubs and of course going to class. I would have told myself to relax and not over extend myself with doing to much in such a short period of time. College at Norteastern is five years, there is plenty of time to do whatever it is you want to do. I also would have said to be more frugal. Living on an urban campus and in very expensive state like Massachusetts you have to be responsible for your spending. Just buying the groceries can be expensive.

Campus life is very diverse. Northeastern is a big school, but high school isn't such a small place, either. Take your time, explore everything you can, but stay focused on your studies. High school students and teachers can be pushovers. In college, teachers take matters more seriously. Allow generous time for homework, assignments are not as easy as they are in high school, and you are dealing with students from all over the world, not just your hometown. Teachers in high school are more caring and look after you more - college professors have more on their minds than students. You will be largely on your own to fend for yourself. You need to be self-sufficient, but you have the resources and capabilities to make it through. Your instincts are excellent, use them well. There are some great experiences, too, more than now. Areas of law, science, and things you only saw on tv. Check out everything you can - clubs, labs, etc. It is all cool stuff, but just don't forget your classes or to do your homework.

College is one of the best times of your life. I've heard that statement said over and over again. Little did I know how true that would be for me in such a short time - just a little shy of my completion of my first semester of my freshman year. I believe that rings true because of the advice that I gave myself during my senior year of high school - remain true to yourself. Be aware of all possibilities and the ramifications of your decisions. Set reasonable goals and objectives and always follow through. Don't be overwhelmed by the small stuff. Remember to never pass judgment too quickly on others and be respectful of their choices. Take time out for yourself by doing something important to you. It can be as simple as finding the time to relieve some stress by going to the gym or perhaps volunteering in community service activities. Take time to create new friendships and just simply enjoy life. Always be honest - with yourself and others. Don't be afraid of the unknown. And, if all else fails, go with your gut. Generally, our decisions are based upon past experiences.

If I had the opportunity to go back in time and give myself some advice about college I would start by saying there is honestly nothing to worry about. Even though I was moving less than two hours away, when I left for college I was petrified. I didn't know how I was going to be able to find time for classes, work, and homework, never mind the laundry and eating, and the last thing on my mind was a social life. Although my grades were very good that first semester I missed out on half of the experience because I was too afraid to put myself out there. I never listened to everyone when that said "Get involved!" If I could go back I would make myself listen and I would do anything and everything I could to be a active part of my school and my community. I had a very hard time adjusting at first and I wish now that I would've known getting involved wasn't going to make things harder and more stressful, it was actually going to do the exact opposite!

Going to Boston and transitioning yourself will be a big change for you. Forget everything you think you know about college , because it will be nothing like you expect. It is important to keep an open mind and know that people will be different from you, and you have something to learn from everyone. Don't be dscouraged by how hard the work is. You have to put much more time into things than you did in high school, but you will feel really good when you do well on something. The hardest thing for you will be that you are lonely and you miss your family. Open up to your friends because most people feel the same way. Sometimes it will be hard knowing that you have to do so much work or you won't see your family for a long time, but try to not sweat the small stuff because the experiences you will have in college will make you a better person.

Rachel, college is a rite of passage and the experiences that you will go through will make you a successful both academically and athletically. I know that you will probably not believe me when I tell you that you are going to love attending classes and your professors here will inspire you and if you were given the opportunity again to go to any college in the nation you would choose Northeastern because there is no better place to experience college. Boston is the best city for an education not only because the campus is beautiful but because the possibilities are endless with numerous resources at your fingertips. There are so many people here that support you. You will have your academic advisor, athletic advisor, professors, swim coach, teammates, family and friends. You will never want to leave, but when you do you will be so satisfied with what you have accomplished here. I am not saying that it will be easy the work is hard both in the classroom and in the pool but it is so worth it and you will be so proud. "Boston your my home. "

I would tell myself that it is imperitive to get involved on campus the very first couple of weeks that you are there. I waited until sophomore year to join clubs, and that was a big mistake. I had a very difficult freshman year because I was trying to find where I fit in. I had a hard time meeting people because of my shy personality. I would tell myself to try to be more outgoing and meet people in your residence hall when you first move in!

Going from high school to a large college is a large transition and it is important to prepare yourself for the change. College gives students the opportunity to study what they are interested in and find out what inspires them. It is very important to be open to different cultures and always enjoy meeting new people and being open to everybody'e opinions. In college, it is very important to be able to work together and share opinions in order to gain new knowledge.

Dont be so stressed. It all works out in the end.

" DO what you have to in order to do what you want to do..." Evie, work hard from the beginning and make it count. Study to show yourself approved... Look for outside scholarships and save up for books and other necessities. Do not spend money just because you have it. Be disciplined and a good steward of what you have.