University of Missouri-Kansas City Top Questions

What should every freshman at University of Missouri-Kansas City know before they start?

LaKeisha

I would advise parents and students to always visit schools before enrolling in them. Also apply for as many scholarships you possibly can, college is very expensive. I think that students should always try to become involved in on campus activities, such as phrats/sororities, student government, and any other organiztion that the campus offers. I only say this because the more fun a student is having and the more they are involved in, the better you will do in college. You also creat long lasting friendships and networks that may help you succeed after college. My last advice would be DO NOT WORK! I know everyone wants to have a little money but, jobs can be a major distraction and stress. In college stress is the last thing anyone needs.

Rachel

I would tell students and parents to research schools. They should go on at least 3 to 4 campus tours, these should be a major university, medium size school, small school, and possibly an out of state school. I would also tell the student that once you get to school dont spend all your time partying your studies should be your first priority.

christina

just follow your first mind and attend somewhere you feel comfortable

alex

To the students: Listen to your parents. They know more than you think you do. I started at a University +30,000 per year. I had to transfer because of the expenses and things just did not pan out. My parents said I should apply to more schools and have an open mind to other Universities. I wish I would have listened to my parents. My grades would have been perfect from the beginning and findings loans would not be as much of an issue now. Parents: Trust your students. To me, the best thing you can do for them is let them learn from their own mistakes. You have raised them to the best of your ability and now it is time to put your parenting to the test. What your students do at school is in their hands, whethere you like it or not. If they make the mistake of skipping class or being to roudy at a party, they will suffer the consequences and actually realize what they are doing is morally wrong and threatening of their future. Sometimes it takes a lot for a student to buckle down and realize their future is in their hands.

Erica

I know that some schools are better known than others, but try not to let that influence you. Do not pick a school just because its name will look good when you apply for jobs. Try to pick a school that understands the way you think and learn, and will work with you to accomplish your educational goals. Once you make it into your school, try to broaden your horizions as much as possible. Take classes that, even if they are not related to your major, they sound fun and interesting. If there is a certain professor whose classes you like, do not hesitate to take more of their classes, and let them know how much you enjoy them. You never know when that professor may be able to write that all important letter of recommendation. Most of all, try not to think of college as a necessary evil that needs to be done and gotten out of the way. Enjoy these last few years of relative freedom, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Nichola

I would first decide on the size of the campus you want and then choose whether a city campus or a suburban campus is right for you. Once you find the right college, don't be afraid to talk to everyone you see one campus; the opinions of students are the one's that mean the most. Getting invovled is the best way to meet friends and figuring out where you belong.

Tiffani

Selecting an appropriate college is one of the most difficult and most important decisions of a student's life. Start early, and plan personalized visits to each school that you are truly interested in. Make sure it fits all of your needs: academic, personal, financial, geographical, and - yes - social. Among the most important of these are perhaps the personal and social aspects. A variety of colleges may offer the degree program you want, and no doubt, many of them have "star" faculty members to help you succeed. But if you're unhappy outside of the classroom (as this is where you'll spend 75{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of your time), you will ultimately be disappointed with your college experience. This can cause frustration, and ultimately lead to a decline in your school work and your emotional health. Don't be pressured to go to the same school as all of your friends, and don't feel as though you have to attend mom and dad's alma mater. Find what works for you (remember that you're auditioning the college, just as they're auditioning you!). And when you find what fits, you'll know it.

Zaynab

Once you get past fulfilling admission requirements and worrying about tuition costs, the next step to finding the right college is to make sure they offer the degree program you are interested in. If you are undecided, look for a college that offers a wide variety of degree programs. Location is also important. Find a location that's not too far from home. (Just in case, it is good to have a place nearby where you can go for support, and do laundry on the weekends.) It is really important to find a college where you, the student, feel like you belong. Find a college with a campus that speaks to you. It is good to choose a college that you can be satisfied with not just for academics, but for the overall environment and social atmosphere. Visit the colleges on your list, tour their campus, and talk to current students and faculty. Look for a college that will help you excel academically while allowing for balance in your social life and extracurricular activities as well. Once you?re there, dive into your studies, explore campus, make friends, and join clubs. Take advantage of all your opportunities and have fun.

Nicole

I wanted to find a school that focused on social aspects of college. I wanted the "college life". I found that college life is not something that comes with sports that make ESPN, it is the experience by what you learn from your peers. I am from a small town in central Missouri. I did not necessarily want to move to the city. Most of my friends either went to SMSU or UCM to go to college and I decided that if I wanted to continue high school, I would follow them. I found at UMKC diversity. It opened my eyes to look away from middle class white people and understand everyone. People gave me a chance, as well did I to them. People should look to a school that will teach them something about diversity. It teaches people about life!

Angelica

Go with your first instinct and don't look back. Where you end up is exactly where you were meant to be. Give that college a chance because change is hard for everyone unless you make the most out of your experience. College can be an awakening experience to find out who you truly are and by doing so independently. Give yourself boundaries because most students lose track of why they came to college in the first place. Work hard and study hard because in the end you'll reap the rewards with your success.