University of Northern Iowa Top Questions

College is a time of transition. You go from being taken care of to having to take care of yourself. Even though you have all this responsibility thrown on you be open to new experiences and making new friends. Go out and do things! Don't just focus on getting homework done. It is also okay to stay at school on the weekends and meet new people or just hang out with friends you make. Go to sporting events like football and basketball games. When it comes to choosing your major don't stress too much, but make yourself aware of what there is to offer. Try and take classes that you are interested in that will help you decide on your major. Once you decide on your major make your self aware of the classes you need to take. Make sure there aren't any prerequisites that you need for your major classes. Over all being aware of what is available to you on campus will help tremendously.

If I had the chance to talk to my younger self, as a high school senior and give advice about college from what I now know I would say get more involved at your school. For the most part I feel like I was well prepared for the studying and time management part. I attended class regularly and on-time. My grades were good for my first semester and I spent much of my time making sure it stayed that way. One thing I do regret is not being involved in any extra activities, getting a job, or joining any clubs. I would tell my younger self to be brave, take risks, and be involved. Although I had a great first year at the University of Northern Iowa I wish I could have done things differently.

Knowing what I know now, I would visit myself as a high school senior and remind myself that it's alright to make mistakes and that every struggle is not only a learning experience but also a growing experience. I would tell myself that my mom will survive the divorce and that I need not worry about how she's doing. I would explain how change is always scary, only because it is new. I would reassure myself that even though friends fade and change, God and family will be there indefinitely. I would advise that I cling to my faith. I would tell myself that even if I get hurt and do not always act the wisest, I will heal and continue to grow wiser because of it. I would let myself know that it is alright to cry in public and that laughing is even better. Lastly, I would tell myself that even though academics matter a great deal, I can't let it consume me. Even though I believe this is true, I would teach myself the importance of saying "no" and saving a little time for me. I would remind myself to always care.

I would tell myself to relax. College is not as hard as everyone makes it out to be. Sure, it takes a lot of studying, early morning, and sometimes late night classes, but if you don't take time to enjoy it the experience will be wasted. Allow time to volunteer for the organization that you've been dreaming about. Join a group or two to gain insight into the "Real World". Do your best and have fun doing it; it is not the end of the world if you don't get straight A's. College is there to prepare you for the rest of your life, take advantage of all the opportunities that the university offers, they are there for a reason. Finally, make time for friends. Getting good grades makes you feel like you've accomplished something, but if you don't have anyone to share it with, what is the point?

I would tell my high school senior self to apply to as many schools as possible because the one you really want to get into may waitlist you and not have enough room for you. Also, find time to take the ACT more than once because the first time you take it usually won't reflect your skills. I wish I would've taken it again because it can be one of the last factors that decide whether you get into a college or not. Once you get into college, it may be a wise idea not to room with someone who is close friend of yours because after living with them and possibly their annoying habits, you may grow to dislike them.

I would tell myself that outside of class work is extremely important. Putting in extra time and effor makes all the difference in college. I would also tell myself that social life is not the most important thing in college, and that the grades I receive as a Freshman do effect my GPA in following college years. I would also encourage myself to take classes that sound fun, rather than classes that I have to take for Liberal Arts Core classes, there is plenty of time to finish the core classes after I have figured out what Major I want to persue. I would also tell myself to relax and have fun with school, because when there is too much anxiety and stress associated with class it makes school in general boring and feel more like a chore rather than something that can be really fun and exciting. The funnest thing on campus is to get involved in clubs and research, there's so much to learn and college is a very exciting experience!

I would tell myself to start applying for scholarships. You do not get much financial aid. Mostly because the EFC is a joke. Do not blow your money now. You NEED it. Living in the dorms is expensive. Plan ahead if you want to live off campus and save money. Get ready to study hard. You will want to get the most out of this education because YOU are paying for it this time. I had a hard time making friends, so when you go to college, be friendly and get to know others.

I would tell myself that I would be alright. Being scared is normal but listen to the people who are supportive because they are right. You are a strong person and you'll make friends easily. Don't worry about looking silly because that's how everyone feels when they try something new. There will be nice people there to take care of you if you need it and don't be afraid to ask for help. Also, bring something to stuff around the cracks in the door to muffle the sounds of people at 3 a.m. Take deep breaths and get out some!

If I could go back in time and talk to my senior self, I would tell myself to not worry too much and that everything would work out just fine in all aspects. I'd also tell myself to make sure to get more involved with different activities at college, because that makes transitioning from high school to college a lot easier. Plus it's a good way to meet new people and make new friends. I'd tell myself that people are right, that college is harder than high school, but to not worry about it too much. As long as you keep on top of things and ask questions you'll be alright. The professors aren't any worse than the teachers at high school. As a final piece of advice, I'd tell myself to never be afraid to get involved and ask questions when I need help. The RAs, professors, advisors, they're all there to help you figure out what path you need to take to get to your dream job. All you have to do is ask.

My advise would be to really know who you are and what you like to do. I didn't realize that I was such a homebody, not that thats a bad thing, but I should have thought about going to a school closer to family. I also would stress to myself that figuring out what to major in is important and It's not like you need to decide right away,but just getting ideas down about the things that interest you like sports or design, cooking; just everyday things you enjoy and from there I would build on what majors would allow me to do what I like. I really believe that if you like what you do you'll never work a day in your life. I would also stress to myself to plan everything because by planning you are less likely to fall behind on your studies and in college since you dont have the same class everyday procrastination sets in and I would want to eliminate that all together. Self discipline is key! I would also encourage myself to just do my best because God has a plan for everyone.