Quinnipiac University Top Questions

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

Lisa

I would tell myself to give things a chance and think positively. I initally attended a city college and wound up transferring out after one semester. My friend and I applied together and when she didn't get in I was unhappy but still decided to go there. During the first week I was not thrilled with being in a city and was already planning on transferring. However, by the end of the semester I started enjoying it more and my initial negative thoughts made it hard for me to connect with others and really enjoy the experience. I enjoyed my new school but I often wonder what things would be like if I didn't transfer or transferred at a different point. Our experiences are what we make of them and if I could give advice it would be to make it the best possible. Even when I transferred it took time to get settled and feel at home. So, give things a chance and see how they work out. Also, over study, the professors don't often follow the study guide so you will save yourself from a lot of stress by being over prepared.

Stephanie

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would advise myself to study more. As the oldest sibling in my family, I was not sure what to expect going into college. My first year at Quinnipiac was not as successful as it could have been, specifically my grades. I passed my classes, but I significantly improved the following semesters. After my freshman year, I learned how to study more efficiently because I met friends who motivated me to do well in my classes. Being in the physical therapy program, my undergraduate classes were fairly demanding. If I could go back in time, I would give myself tips on how to study better. Procrastination is not helpful in college!

Jesse

If I were to back to my senior year, knowing what I know now, I would tell myself to become closer to my classmates. As a high school senior, I was not the most interactive student. I often times would keep quiet and shy away from others. I missed several large events at my high school like the annual Fashion Show, several fundraisers, and prom. I didn't enjoy being around my senior class and I wish I could have changed that. The social aspect of a student's career is just as, if not more, important than their academics. In college, I realized that making friends and opening up was a necessity. However, I wish I was able to do so a year earlier. Using my advice, I would most likely have had a wonderful and exciting senior year, every single day.

Laura

One of the most important things I wish I could tell myself as a high school senior is to relax. The last year of high school can be extremely stressful for students. With all the deadlines and decisions that have to be made for the following year, most students are overcome by the feeling that there is always something to be done. If I could go back in time and give myself some advice having made it to college and being happy with my decisions, I would let myself know that worrying and stressing is a waste of time. I would tell myself to do my best and to get my work done as early as possible in order to allow myself some time to relax later on. It is important to reward yourself and simply take a break sometimes. Completing a task and being able to cross a big step off of your "to do" list is an extremely gratifying feeling. Doing your work this way prepares you for your life in college, as you have more work to do on your own. It can train you to complete work first, allowing fun to come second.

Julia

I'd say, "The hard work will pay off, and you will be happy wherever you end up." I had a very academically vigorous courseload in high school, while taking classes at the University of Scranton, while working part time, while playing basketball and running track, while sending out my college applications and trying to decide which school was right for me. Needless to say, the amount of stress I endured was nearly unbearable, especially knowing I'd be leaving the comfort of my home and uprooting my entire existence to live in a strange place, alone, and take on an even more rigorous coursework than I had in high school. I was absolutely petrified. If my present self could have a conversation with the old Julia, I'd be sure to say ", Choose the college your gut tells you is right you'll be happy wherever you choose; the transition is very difficult, but you are also very strong and capable and need not be so stressed and apprehensive." I'd also tell her ", Being a pre-med student will come close to breaking you, but your loved ones and your own determination will never abandon you."

George

Do not choose a school just because it looks nice.

Ashley

College is not a place to be care-free. There are lots of fun times to be had, but it takes a lot of hard work. If you work hard, professors will be willing to help you and your high GPA will motivate you to do even better. Strive to be the best, academically and in the community. I know that you think you have your whole future planned out, but do not worry if those plans change. College is a time to discover what you really want to do with the rest of your life. Work hard, get involved in the community, and really reflect on each class you take, because that could be your new future!

Melissa

I would tell myself to hold on to the values your family and friends have taught you. There are going to be a lot of people who have different views and backgrounds than you but that doesn't mean you need to change who you are. Make sure you are prepared to do a lot of studying, but you don't need to be perfect. Worrying about the little things will drive you crazy. Make sure you do your work but leave yourself time to enjoy being in school and living so close to all of your friends.

Samantha

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, the main thing about transition that I would prepare myself would be to not take an easy route senior year. I feel that my senior year I slipped away slightly from my immense focus, especially with my studying techniques. I learned at college that I had to find which studying technique worked best for me for each subject. Certain studying techniques are better for some people more than others, and better for certain subjects more than others. For example, flash cards for memorizing, and chapter outines for content based exams. The more organized I am at college with preparing my studying materials a few days prior to the exam date, the less stressed I find myself while studying. If I had known this and comprehended this as a high school senior, I truly believe that my transition to college would have gone a bit smoothly. Any advice I would give is don't be afraid to ask upperclassmen about their studying techniques, because there are a lot of ways that you can find which will better you in the long run.

grace

i would tell my self to work on time managment better, and to try to stay focused on school work and let myself know that you have to do the readings in college, you cant slide through school with doing the bare minimum anymore.