The University of Alabama Top Questions

What should every freshman at The University of Alabama know before they start?

Sydney

Before you get to college, apply for as many scholarships as you can, and don't be afraid to brag about your accomplishments in your resume. Once you get accepted, start networking with students who already attend the university as well as students who will be entering college at the same time as you. It's definitely better to live on-campus your freshman year, because it's the best way to meet people and make friends that will last you throughout college. Don't be afraid to ask questions, and never take no for an answer when you're trying to get into the classes you want to take. Also, make sure you email or talk to your professors ahead of time to let them know who you are and what you will be expected to do in their course the following semester. Another good thing to do your first year of school is join clubs and teams that interest you. This will help you make friends, help others, and do what you love. I would suggest studying two hours per every hour spent in class. And last but not least, when you go home, bring back the leftovers.

Stephanie

Go to a place that you love and would want to spend 4 years or more at because it is like your home away from home.

Corey

Make sure you visit the campus, preferably when school is in. Talk to actual students, not just tour guides. Ask to meet a professor in the field you are interested in. Sit in on a class if you can. Get to know how the school handles classes. Stay over with a student in a dorm room to get a taste of dorm life. If you don't like community baths, you can find out during the stay, not on your first day at school when you can't do anything about it. Go out an have fun on the weekends, but always make it to class Monday morning, even if you do have a hangover. Don't be afraid to talk to your professors. They arn't there to make you flunk out of college. If you have a problem, they will work with you on it if you talk to them and ask to work it out in a decent manner.

Steven

Take your time with this decision and find a place that is conducive to learning. After all, this is when you as an individual shape yourself and really begin to find out who you are.

Clifton

Ask the students on campus about the school, because most of them will be very honest. Talk to the campus leaders and find out what they like about the school and if they would have choosen a different route.

Erick

Try new things all the time. Be open-minded and forget old prejudices.

Jessie

Future college students need to apply to every school that strikes an interest in them. Often application time for high school seniors is overwhelming with so many options and not enough time. This might cause biased or clouded judgement when it comes to selecting a school. Applying early to a wide variety of schools will allow time for pondering and accomodation of any changes in needs and interests that may arise. Making college visits and having interactions with the student body is also vital to finding the right college. Parents need to ease the students anxieties and encourage them to have an open mind about future education possibilities. The college experience is made of the people you meet and the things you learn. One's character and beliefs are greatly shaped during the college years, and this always needs to remembered. Students should find time for solitude and personal reflection in the midst of chaotic times. Furthermore, the chaotic times should be appreciated just as much as the peaceful and happy times. Lastly, students should seek to befriend unique individuals and dig deeper into the studies they enjoy because these aspects of the college experience make a person grow.

Jonathan

I would suggest to visit the colleges and maybe even stay a night with someone there, this will give the student the full experience, maybe even go to a couple of classes to see what the teachers are like.

Tamar

In finding the right college, parents and children need to know the strengths and weekness of the potential student such as if the child is not easily focused, a college that is known nationally for parties would not be the one. You first need to start researching and visiting campuses early. It'll get everybody excited about this new facet of life and also give you a small taste of what to expect. Prepare financially and see what schools are with in your budget taking miscellaneous money into consideration as well. See what college has the best program for you aspiring career, but don't pick your career too early before you determine if you are cognitively capable of fulfilling the requirements. If feasible, find a college that is driving distance just in case you get too stresses or home sick. YOU DON'T WANT TO BE STRANDED. Attending orientation helps you make friends in a foreign place, because all those people are just getting started just like you. Go to class, get to know your professors and study, study, study. You'll love college!!!!

Stephen

My advice for parents and/or students would be to schedule a campus tour of the college that you are considering attending. It really helps out to get a feel of how things are happening on campus.