Pittsburg State University Top Questions

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

Emily

My senior year of high school was a tumultuous time filled with indecision and uncertainty. I was completely at a loss as to what I wanted to do in college, and what pathways I wanted to take. If I could communicate with my high school self, I would let me know that it's alright to be uncertain. Not knowing what you want to do as soon as you enter the world of college is normal, and one of the biggest opportunities of college is the chance to try new and exciting things. Being lost can be rewarding; it gives you the opportunity to truly know yourself and your preferences. The stress that adults put on high school seniors can be overwhelming, but don't ever let that keep you from trying what you want to try, not what everyone else thinks you should do. Every high school senior needs to know that only they can construct their happiness and idea of success, and the first step is to get a little lost in this exciting world, and discover what you unequivically love.

Katherine

If I were able to go back in time and give myself some advice, there would be a lot for me to say. College is definitely not something that you are prepared for, whether you think so or not. I would tell myself to come to college with a clean slate and an open mind. Trying to continue a relationship long distance is not a good idea and it will just end up ruining some of the time spent at college and some of your friendships. I would tell myself to listen to my heart and do what I think is best for myself and my future career. Although it is good to think about others, I shouldn't jeopardize my happiness and future for that. College is an amazing experience, but the experience won't be as enjoyable if I hold myself back. I would definitely tell myself to not take the Woman's Studies course because that class was a dreadful learning experience. Overall, the most important thing that I would tell myself is that I should make the very best out of my college experience and pursue my career with as much passion as I can.

Crystal

Don't worry about college it's going to be great. You will make great friends quickly, do things that scare you and put yourself out there and have fun

Lauri

If I could go back in time and give myself advice about college, I would tell myself to start saving money earlier. I would also say to start applying for scholarships earlier. I wish that I had started looking at and visited colleges earlier. I would have started looking at colleges as a freshman.

Anndrina

I would tell myself not to be so nervous and to know that no matter who you are, you will be able to find friends in college. I would also tell myself to spend as much time with my family as I possibly can. Since, I did move from Asia to go to college, I do miss my family very much. I would tell myself to study hard so I could apply to several colleges and maybe even enroll into honor's college. I would tell myself to relax and not be in a hurry to grow up; because, high school and college is the best time of ones life.

talia

I would have gotten more prepared and applied for more grant and scholarships for the payments i have to make .

Kali

Kali, you are going to do well as long as you are confident. Remember, a real friend will not expect more than time spent with you, and a "man" in college is probably still a boy that is getting money from loans or parents. Do not give them any power over your life. This is YOUR time. If you try to help everyone else fill the holes in their lives, you are bound to fall into one of them and not be able to achieve your goals. Get a job while you get your Bachelor's degree. You will meet people this way and not have to become dependent on a man. Do not stop there. You will be secretly ashamed if you stop. Get your Master's degree! You have plenty of time. It will be a great experience. Lastly, do not get hidden from the world. You have a lot to learn about it before it can start learing from you. Are you excited? You should be!

Leah

If I were to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself that focusing on grades is a trap. Having straight A's doesn't mean anything if you fail to retain the information. As a high school junior I took general chemistry for college credit. I was determined to make an A. After many nights of over studying, endless eraser marks, taking tests over a set of information, forgetting old information and focusing on new information, I did. Now in my second semester of college, I am taking general chemistry 2. The notes are confusing at times and I have to do extra reading to prepare myself. I'm now realizing that I should have focused on learning and retaining the information rather than learning it just to receive that specific grade. The ability to think beyond what’s in a textbook and to see the connections to the world around you is much more important than a 4.0 average in the grand scheme of things. The world is littered with bright people who are failures because the only thing they were good at was school.

Niccole

I would make sure to tell myself to apply for all the scholarships I can get my hands on, no matter how much time it takes. I would tell myself to study hard, work hard, and always try my best. To live on campus at least one year & that going to community college was a GREAT decision for me. Next time look more into the graduate programs & not just the undergrad programs that way I don't have to change universities if/when I decide to go for a Master's degree that my University doesn't have.

Casey

To go back in time and give the advice I now know, I would tell myself to choose a school that I think will best accomidate my needs. Not to follow a boyfriend, or a best friend.The college choosen has to be able to support your future and not just a social life. Time management is also the key to success. I would tell myself to go to events the school puts together, to meet people, and to stay involved. I strongly suggest to get all of the general education classes out of the way as fast as possible. Another great peice of advice would to not buy anything expensive for the dorm living, because it will only be used for one year. The most important advice that I wish I would have known as a high school senior would be to start building a resume when you first start school. Thay way in a year or two of schooling, it can just grow and you will not have to stress about building them from memory. Last but not least, you have to enjoy yourself throughout your college years! Make your memories worthwhile.