University of Minnesota-Duluth Top Questions

What should every freshman at University of Minnesota-Duluth know before they start?

Mindy

If i could go back to my senior year I would do things differently. As a high school senior, I would of participated in P.S.E.O (postsecondary education opportunity). My senior year was just all fun and not taken seriously. I wish I would of used my time more wisely and got ahead! P.S.E.O is a great opportunity to get college experience before you are actually attend school after high school. They pay for your college education and gives you a head start. It would of made an easier transition into college. You would have experience with studying, tests, the work load, and getting used to the schedule you choose. You don't have to pay for text books either which is great deal. It is a great opportunity to get ahead, have your college education paid for, and have experience in college life.

Sheewin

Academically, socially, environmentally, college is a new experience, one very different from high school. Making transitions into college life will be difficult at times, but things could be done to prepare you for this new chapter of your life. In high school, academically get ready for college. Pay attention in class; GPA does matter to a certain extent. Reach a little further and take challenging classes, volunteer and be involved! When applying to colleges and for scholarhips, always do everything early, stay organized, and go for it! "Friends made in college are lifelong friends." Sometimes the friends you made in high school will also be your lifelong friends. Cherish the moments with family and friends. Keep those memories in your heart. Bond with fellow classmates in high school. You are one unit, the same graduating class, all in it together. Stay in touch with family and friends! They can be there supporting you when you need it most. Take care of yourself, stay healthy, get sleep, and be happy. YOU have to deal with this change, a new experience, a college life. YOU have to do what YOU think is right and best. Sometimes, it's simply all about you.

Nicole

As a high school senior I would have told myself to take things more seriously. When considering colleges, I did not really put that much effort into finding one that would have a major I wanted and as a result, I am going to have to transfer colleges after I finish my generals. I also would let myself know that college is not all fun and games. I need to be prepared to work hard and take my classes seriously. The first test I had was a math test and was not prepared for it. I actually got a C on it, and after that started working hard in all my classes. I did not get any more bad test grades after that one, but I wish I would have been prepared for the work load. Finally, I wish I would have been able to tell myself to be ready for any obstacles thrown my way such as a roommate that likes to party all the time, and handle these issues with maturity. Overall, going into college I feel I caught on pretty quick to all the transitions that I had to make and feel confident that I will succeed.

Jessica

To go back in time would be a blessing. I would tell myself to get more involved in school activities so that I had more to write on my college resume. I would tell myself to always look up, if a problem came along then I'd just have to work around it. The struggles you overcome in life now, will just make you stronger and better in the future. In highschool I believed in giving your all on every endeavor, but because of the fear of failure I wouldn't try to begin anything new or uncharted. I would tell myself that if you didn't try you didn't live. To sit by the sidelines and reminisce on the opportunities lost makes you just like everyone else who decided they didn't deserve more. The advice I would have given myself in highschool is the same advice I follow today. Put yourself first because no one else will. Be adveturous and live life like you couldn't go back in time and change your mistakes.

Heidi

I would give myself the advice to take your time with your decision and do what is right for you. Also, you should keep an open mind towards new situation. Trying new things will allow you to make more friends. You are not the only person who is feeling scared about going to college for the first time, so do not stress about that.

Zachary

I would tell myself to relax and have fun, while working hard. The transition to college life is a fun and new experience, you will meet many new peole and make many new friends. However, just because you are leaving Dassel-Cokato, doesn't mean you have to forget those who made it special. Hang on to those friends as well. Work hard in your classes to be the best you can possibly be. Follow your passions and don't let anyone get in your way. Following your passions will make you truly happy in your education and career in the future. There will be times when you will be tested, when they come, hang on to your values and follow your heart to the right decision.

Ashley

I would say enjoy every moment because the things that seemed to be so stressful and important in high school were not so important. I would also encourage myself and tell myself that college is much better than high school, that I'll meet so many influential people, and that I'll be presented with so many opportunities. I would congratulate myself on my hardwork throughout high school and remind myself to continue working hard throughout college because college is much more fast paced.

Rick

Buy a parking permit because your tickets will add up to more than you will spend for it. Know what you want to become and take the appropriate classes as soon as possible. Become involved more in the school. Jump into any organization you can. Dont stay cooped up in your room. Get out and explore the town!

Jason

I would suggest taking more PSEO courses in my highschool career. Though public colleges and universities tend to be less expensive, they are still not cheap. I would try and convince my senior-self of the following things: college really is a wonderful opportunity to gain knowledge and understanding. It is not about making a ton of friends or trying to find parties to rebel and let loose. Though I've not really been a part of that seen, I would assure myself that studying and getting good grades are the best priority while in school; there's nothing wrong with having fun, making friends or celebrating achievements, but keep the goal and purpose of education always in mind. People across the globe don't have the opportunity to choose their occupation, much less choose to go or not go to college. Be humble in your abilities and use them to their fullest potential because there are many people who would likely trade places with you. Oh, and decide what you want to do for YOU. Choosing a major or school to please others will not make you as happy in the end as if you do it for yourself.

Zac

Save more money so that once I get to college I won't be having to worry about money as much. As well as, take time to learn how to study, it will make things a lot easier in the future.