University of Massachusetts-Amherst Top Questions

My college experience has given me a broader sense of who I am, and the tools I need to better assess and navigate the world around me. I have met students from other parts of the world and all walks of life. I understand better my place in the wold by the way they react and interact with me. I have met many passionate people, both students and teachers, who inspire me and remind me to pursue my own passions with the same vigor. I can see the end results achieved by the teachers who share the same passion as I do. They show me the path needed to take to pursue my dreams. My college experience has taught me not just the what, but the why as I add to my tool belt of knowledge.

I have become a lot more of a leader since college through my academics and job I held. The friends I have made will be with me forever and I am forever greatful for that. By attending college, I have grown and am now ready to take on Graduate School.

Enrolling into the University of Massachusetts Amherst, I was looking forward to exploring the intensive range of courses that the university had to offer. I also planned on looking into the health profession and what pursuing such a career would entail. Endless possibilities ran through my head as I thougt about the vast array of classes I could take. And then I hit a roadblock. From how I see it, the university likes to make sure that their declared students will get into the courses that they need to in order to fulfill their graduation requirements within four years. Us undeclared students can just take what?s left since we won?t have any requirements to fulfill but Gen Eds until we decide what we want to do with our lives. All the courses that I wanted to take were either full or closed to certain majors. None of the classes I enrolled in interested me. I was supposed to be exploring my options in an effort to determine what I liked and how I could apply my interests to a major and ultimately, a career. The only thing I learned, however, was what I didn?t want to do.

i received a well rounded education. i learned in class, worked on campus and off. One of my most memorable experiences was participating in the Disney College Program. I worked at the Contemporary Hotel in Orlando. I made lifetime friends from around the US and the world. Hands on expereince will give me a better opportunity to gain employment when i graduate.

There is a strong stigma around not attending college nowadays, as well as many stereotyped reasons why a college education is essential. I believe that high school students should know the reality of attending college and the true value of the experience, instead of the reasons that society broadcasts. In every facet of my life, I can find a way that going to college has shaped me into a better individual. I have learned responsibility from living on my own and managing my time and priorities. I have developed greater people skills, and met many life long friends. Most importantly, I have received an education that I value more than anything. The core general courses have made me a well-rounded invidividual, and my nursing courses have launched me within reach of a rewarding career. Being in college provides students with a sense of well being, and assurance that there is a place in society for young minds to flourish and create a brighter future. It is truly an invaluable experience that no amount of tuition bills can replace.

Don't go to U Mass. It's a giant, wild party all the time. Seriously, it starts on Thursday night, and goes all the way to Sunday night! On the other hand, you're going to learn a lot, and make two amazingly incredible friends.

I came from a small town and went to school in the "big city". I had always been able to influence people for the good throughout school. I had found out a few months prior to graduating I had a previously overlooked learning disability (ADHD). I felt it would not cause me any problems and my parents tried to help me with the transition and tell me it would be best to stay close. Looking back on that first year in college, I realize that the "big city" school and the people that were supposed to help me, couldn't care less that I had problems keeping focused and taking tests. I believe if I could go back and talk to my high school senior self, I would tell "me" that parents are right some of the time and they have our best interest at heart. Also, I would mention that becoming a number or a face would not be conducive to my learning. I have since moved home and tried a traditional education and still struggled. I have started school to be a cosmetologist because I enjoy it, but could use this scholarship to help pay for it.

Dear Laurie, I know there are pressures pushing and pulling on you in every direction - your parents expectations, varsity athletics, AP classes - and anxiety over the fact that you are about to leave home for college. Remember when you start college to remain true to yourself. Don't fall victim to becoming the person you parents expect, your coaches expect, your friends expect, or your professors expect. Every morning when you look in the mirror, make sure to remind yourself of the person you are and the person that you want to be. Follow your dream, not anyone elses. Love, me

If i were to go back in time there are a couple of pieces of advice that I would give myself. First, I would say that you should deifintely explore all of you options and visit the schools that you get into even if your not sure they are right for you. You never know what these schools are like if you dont go visit. I think that would have changed my dicision a great deal. Next, I would suggest that you try to get involved in some of the activities at your school. I strongly recommend looking for a job as early as possible. Money is always good to have as a college student, and you dont wanna be stuck without any source of revenue.

Dear high school senior self, I know you?re stressed now about applying to college, but don?t be. I?m your future self, so trust me. College will be amazing. Please stop worrying that you won?t make it into a college, because you will; all ten of them. You had good grades, did well on the SATs, and wrote good applications, so there was nothing to worry about. If you try in high school, you'll get into a college. Don?t let awkward moments and the stress of fitting in get you down. Within this year and throughout college, you?ll find your talents, strengths, and interests, and continue to grow as a person who both you and others will like and appreciate. In college you'll have more responsibilities, but this and your newly acquired freedom will help you become a more independent person. You?ll make friends everywhere and have many fun times and adventures. However, remember to prioritize and not to do anything stupid. You?re in full command of your decisions, so only do what you are comfortable with. Work hard, have fun, and don?t worry. You'll be fine