University of Michigan-Flint Top Questions

What should every freshman at University of Michigan-Flint know before they start?

Ellynn

I would tell myself to not quit trying to learn how to study. Studying is a habit that I never followed in high school and that I use a lot in college. It took me forever to learn how to study in a way that was suitable for me, if I would of actually done this in high school, I could of saved myself a lot of time.

Trista

Going back, I'd tell myself two things. First, college is not as ominous and scary as the young imagination suggests. Though not easy, the work is simple and requires dilligence more than anything. Secondly, the first year of college is just like thirteenth grade. The only differences between high school and college are that the deadlines are closer, the books are heavier, the bathrooms are smellier and the teachers don't care. There is also the responsibility of paying for the whole glorious experience out of pocket. Based on that fact, I'd advise my twelfth grade self to (1) "Stop worrying." and (2) "For heaven's sakes, apply for scholarships!"

Tara

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to try as hard as I possibly can. Even though I received near a 4.0 my senior year, I know I could have tried harder. I would tell myself to pick more challenging classes; for example, A.P. classes and a math class. I took mostly easy classes just to get through the rest of high school. I know I could have challenged my brain, but I took the easy way out. I'm in college now, and if I would have chosen harder classes I know I would have gotten more scholarships and grants to pay for my tuition. Also, I could have been more prepared for my major if I had taken a math class. If I had taken that class, I could have been more ahead in my degree than I am now.

Laura

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior knowing what I know now I would tell myself that keeping my grades up till the very end was a very wise idea. I would also tell myself that all the work paid off and what I learned academically and personally is going to help me in the future. I would tell myself that they study habits I developed are working. But I would also tell myself that classes are going to be harder and that I need to keep up with my reading and make sure that I do study for every test even though I didn't have study much when I was in high school. I would tell myself that all the experiences I had in high school are going to help me in the future and that staying in touch with your closest friends is important as well. I would also tell myself to make an effort to break out of my shell and do new things and make new friends because you will be a better person for it. Have fun with your new friends and your old ones.

Cheryl

To go to college right after high school and get my degree and start a career before anything else. It is easier to just sit back and say I'll get a job and everything will work out, I don't need college, but yes, college changes everything, including my outlook on life. I would tell myself that it would be the best thing that I could ever do to improve my chances at being successful in life.

Chelsea

Chelsea, you don't know whats ahead of you. These truely are the best years of your life ahead of you. Cherish the time you have with your family and friends. They will be behind you no matter what. Remember you don't have you compromise yourself to make friends. Try and save money, because as I look at my future I see how much money it will cost. Study hard, but not too hard. I think the most important thing is to have fun. Laugh with your friends, do crazy things, but still be yourself. Be excited for what the future has in store for you, because you have a great life. Your a great girl, and your destined for great things.

Amy

I would tell myself that it is well worth the hard work. It is a big transition, but takes time and you get into the groove quickly. Do your work timely, and don't allow yourself to get behind. Continue to work hard as you do in high school, and you will do just fine. Go for something that you think you will enjoy, and absorb as much information as you can because you never know when you may need it. Most of all, learn everything you can, but give yourself breaks at times so you don't get burned out.

Melissa

I would tell myself to open up and be more outgoing. I've always been very independent and introverted, which has been very beneficial to me while simultaneously limiting me. It has taken me several years to come out of my shell, and I think I missed out on a lot of great opportunities because I was too scared to take a risk, and go alone somewhere. I would definitely advise myself to speak up more in classes, interact more with other students and professors; and to attend more lectures and events hosted by the university.

Elizabeth

The advice that I would give myself is to get involve in schoo. Participate in sports as well as academic clubs. A lot of colleges look highly at these creditials. Also, accumlate volunteer hours. Another thing that I would do differently if I could go back in time is to research the schlorship opportunities available to the colleges that I was interested in and make a effort to fullfill those requirements for the schlorship to help with funds.

Chau

I would say to study hard but learn to have a good time and let yourself live a little. Find a balance of for studying and having fun.