University of Alabama in Huntsville Top Questions

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

Jordan

Hey, Jordan. Here's a little advice for your future. Don't stress so much about boys or whose popular, or not, or on how much you weigh. Don't put too much stock in what you or others are wearing or driving. In the grand scheme of things, none of these things will make you who you are meant to be. Just make friends with those who are worth it, date just for the fun of it, wear what suits your fancy and DRIVE CAREFULLY!! Be open to receive criticism and praise, both will be of much use in years to come. And, no, your parents aren't as dumb as you think. They will actually come in very handy one day. Look to God for any and all of life's questions. He knows the answers better than anyone. Love with all your heart. You may get hurt, but it truly is better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all. Most of all, love yourself. You're worth it!

Trent

In high school, like many other young students, I was hindered by the need to fit in and constantly impress others. I feel that I had much more potential and that I could've achieved higher goals had I not worried so much about my social status. Sports and popularity were among the many seemingly important aspects that ruled my high school life and what came as a result, was disrepect, shallow tendencies, and a complete disregard to those that I thought were "lower" than me. I've been out of high school for about four years and I realize now that the prom kings and queens, the relationships, and the amount of touchdowns scored have been lost among the memories of a confusing yet now very minute and insignificant fraction of our lives. Therefore, if I had a chance to go back and talk to the younger me, I would urge him to make more friends in different places, treat everyone with respect, take a few theatre and film classes, and to try to see high school for what it really is; a place we're just passing through.

Heather

I would tell myself to work hard and stay focused. By doing this you will be ready for college. Also, dont stress out so much, school can be stressful but you always will have God, family, and friends there to help you. Just keep your head on straight and dont get too distracted.

Kayla

As a high school student, do not rely on your teachers to remind you when assignments are due; keep up with your own due dates. Decide career goal, university, and scholarships early on in your senior year, rather than waiting until the last minute. Do not worry about how many friends you have in high school, when yo being college it is not easy to keep up with everyone. Make sure you keep close with your real friends.

Sam

High school was the best four years of my life. I developed friends that I will have for the rest of my life and I learned about what I wanted to do for my future. Now that I am graduated, I look back and think about all the things that I could of done differently. If I could go back in time and do things differently, there would've of been a lot of changes. The first thing would of been grades. I had good grades all through school. But I would've worked a lot harder especially in my math classes, so that I would'nt be behind during my freshman year of college. The second thing I would've done differently would be to have studied harder for my tests. I now know that having strong study skills in high school helps in college when your having exams and final exams. The last thing I would've done is saved my money. I never had a job during high school and it would've helped a lot more if I would've worked and saved my money so that I would create good money skills before entering college.

Shari

Hey there self! What are you thinking waiting to fill out college and scholarship applications? You have awesome grades and a drive about yourself. Do not waste time procrastinating. Sure school is challenging but most people are trying to scare you into thinking you cannot do it. Once you get here, you will know that you are prepared. The educational benefit you will receive will help your further your education to the masters and doctoral levels. You know you can do it. School can open so many doors of opportunities. Do not forget to study hard and party later. There are so many temptations and extra curricular activities that can distract your focus from your studies. It is up to you to knuckle back down and find a balance between work and play. Enjoy the experience, but remember every year counts, especially to new jobs you will apply for after graduation. I would offer this advice not only to myself but to others as well. College is filled with fun learning as well as frustration; however, all risks and challenges are well worth it in the long run. College can enhance character, competitive-edge, and deliver a world of success.

juan

Use the tuition money wisely and plan to finish in four year rather than wait and wast more money on one more year of college.

Rhonda

I am 42 years old. It has been years since my high school days, and I have learned many things since then. Most important is GO TO COLLEGE!! Going to college is not a "scary" thing. Even though you have no money, no support, you can still attend college. Don't worry about choosing a career right now. Go your first two years and do your general's. In two years you will be more mature, experienced more life, and have more of an idea of the direction you want to go. You will have a place to live and can get a part-time job or apply for work-study. And, yes you are smart enough. Be proud of yourself, be confident, you are a young, beautiful lady, don't waste your cognitive abilities. There is plenty of time to work and raise a family. Right now is your time. Be selfish, think only of you and what you want out of life, everybody else can take care of themselves. Go to college, stay up late with your friends, be a regular at the coffee shops, be involved in study groups, go skiing, your only young once.

Sara

I would tell myself, be prepared for big chages that are going to happen in the future because things won't be like they are now. I would say, "Your friends will change, your classes will be hard, you will be stressed out all the time. But, don't loose yourself and who you are as a person. Don't forget why you are going college and what you're interested in. Don't forget that you are the 'change' people want to see in the world. Work hard to keep the connections you have with your closest friends, because they will carry you through your dark days, when you have them. Strive to be better than you are now. Get involved on your campus. Start applying for scholarships, now becuase you will need the money. Oh, and you are going to love Rummy (pet cat)! Stay in touch with Mom and Dad becuase they will always be there!" Thank You :)

Jacoby

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would first tell myself to take the advice of my teachers and pursue a caree in Engineering. I would also tell myself to not take college so seriously and not allow yourself to opportunity to balance your lifestyle. Studying is a great habit and should be taken seriously, but too much studying and no leisure time is not healthy and may cause more harm than good. I would advise myself to be more open to meeting new people and taking full advantage of opportunities to pursue a co-op or intern position with a company in parallel with college studies. This will make the transition from college to the professional job seeking market much smoother and easier than approaching from a non-experience angle.