Northwestern University Top Questions

What should every freshman at Northwestern University know before they start?

Rachel

I have discovered a lot about myself and about other people in coming to Northwestern. My experience here has been extremely valuable to me for several reasons. First of all, the professors at Northwestern are truly incredible. I have outstanding professors in music, in chemistry lectures, and in general engineering classes. Across all departments, Northwestern faculty stand out as the most brilliant around. Also, the students at Northwestern make this campus unique. We have a very diverse student population (culturally, racially, economically and spiritually), which makes me appreciate both differences and similarities among people in our world. But, one thing Northwestern students have in common is that they all have a drive to succeed. Our campus is filled with positive energy and a supportive understanding among students that we all want the best for one another and we all work hard together. Finally, Northwestern University's proximity to Chicago makes going to school here an even more exciting experience. One of my favorite perks of being in Evanston is being able to go into Chicago on the weekends to see the symphony or an opera or just to go shopping.

Samantha

As a woman with plans to get a degree in Biomedical engineering and go on to medical school, my education has been the most valuable tool of all. College has resulted in me finding my independence and made me appreciate everything my parents have done for me to allow me to go to school. Being at college has not only opened my eyes to the world, but has made me appreciate my life so much. I am motivated to be successful and be an inspiration for women, stepping out of the role of housewife and making a successful career for myself is very important to me. Though I have also found that the cost of college can be a burden. I have found that giving back to the community is rewarding and makes me thankful for every scholarship I have recieved to allow me to afford my dream. Without the help of my parents and many generous organizations, my education is possible and I will be forever humble.

Samantha

I've gotten freedom out of my college experience. College has made me a more intelligent, and inspired woman. It has opened me up to a world of opprotunity for friendship, leadership, as well as knowledge. It's given me a door to walk through, and a light at the end of the tunnel. College has allowed me to open my mind, learn to think differently and look at life subjects from more then one angle. Education is the key to so many doors, and I value mine more then anything.

Katerina

Northwestern University not only provided me with an amazing education, but it gave me a new outlook on life. Growing and learning in a diverse environment is essential for students in this modern, ever-changing society. Northwestern provided me with that environment, allowing me to learn to work efficiently in any social situation. Through both classes and extracurricular activities, I experienced a plethora of cultures and ideas that I had never experienced before. I am currently in law school, and I owe much of my success today to my social and academic education at Northwestern.

Desmond

So far I've gotten out of my college experience that if you work hard and do what you need to do then its really simple. You can have fun on the weekends but make sure your homework and studys are all caught up with first. One more thing I've learned is if you dream it you can achieve it, and that means anything you want to be when you grow up.

Brittany

I have learned so much from being in college. I was already kind of an independent person while living at home, but since being at Northwestern I have learned how to truly be on my own, as I pay for school myself and have no assistance other than financial aids, loans and scholarships. I have also learned that it's okay to be the best that you can be in whatever circumstance you're put in. No one expects the world from me, and I know that whatever happens I will always be a productive and positive citizen of the world. My college experience has also taught me how to deal with stress, and sometimes the worst news comes when you need it the least. But you have to get things done, and in some ways it has made me a stronger and more resillient person, and I am not all that more motivated to achieve what I've set out to do.

Jonathan

From my college experience so far, I have learned how to make strong friendships, have continued to pursue a work ethic built on hard work, and was able to better understand the concept of 'giving back to the community'. These three things have been most valuable in my college experience thus far and I can now see the importance of networking especially (building lasting friendships and connections) because without it, you cannot get much farther in life without the help of those around you. A work ethic built on hard work and determination is another valuable concept that I have learned to grasp during my stay at Northwestern University and it has so far helped me academically and most importantly, allowed me to keep a balanced, healthy lifestyle. Along with this type of work ethic, I have also been fortunate to have a small taste for being involved in the community. By helping others in the community, whether it be through volunteerism or political activism, I saw the importance of having a college education and ultimately, use the knowledge, skills, and tools that I aqcuired from the university in a way that can benefit the rest of society.

Michelle

I have learned to work harder than I ever have before in my life. I have learned excellent time-management skills and the ability to work much better with others than I had been able to on prior occasions. I have learned the importance of asking professors for help when it is needed and through this, I have become more comfortable and self-assured around authority figures while still maintaining proper decorum. I have made friends that will last my whole life, and I have made connections with professors that enable a much richer academic environment. I have gotten more comfortable navigating beauracratic necessities, and learned how to recover from upsetting a boss the first day on the job by accidentally deleting his server. I have become more financially aware and I have developed a richer, more well-rounded personality. I have truly begun to embrace the Northwestern way of life-- work hard, play hard, and know when which is appropriate for the situation.

Lauren

My experience at Northwestern University was one of life's biggest blessings. The Chick Evans Scholarship I received to attend Northwestern has significantly aided me in my pursuit of providing affordable healthcare and education to low-income families. As someone who was raised in a disadvantaged household, I desire to become a healthcare professional who not only helps individuals in need, but also educates them about how to maintain their health and well-being. Currently, I delight in volunteering at Chicago Public Schools, teaching about overall and oral health (a volunteer effort founded and aided by multiple Northwestern efforts). If I had not been afforded this and many other amazing experiences by Northwestern, I highly doubt my dreams would be a possibility. I am thankful for the irreplaceable advice I have received from alumni, students, staff and professors at Northwestern. These people are truly dedicated to creating world-changers! I am so inspired by their hard work and dedication. I know that other generous people will be put in my life to aid me spiritually, academically and financially to bring good to a world in need.

Timothy

Exposure is the one word that encapsulates the value of a college experience. One does not know what he is missing until her realizes that it is out there, and college is just the medium to learn about all that is out there. This statement works in college on many different levels including academics, cultures, and personal development. College has made my life a bit of a juggling act, as I try to hold on what I value from the past, process my experiences in the present, and plan what I want out of my future. While everyone must do this at some point in my life, college is the perfect environment in which many individuals are doing the same. By sharing and listening to what others at Northwestern are experiencing, I have better been able to shape my life experience.