University of Rhode Island Top Questions

I would tell myself to put more effort into my classes, to take the time out every day to go over notes or homework; whatever it may be that will help me understand my class material better. I would tell myself not to wait to the last minute to ask for help; that if i know i'm having difficulty in a class, to seek help as soon as i need it.

Go to a different school.

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I would tell myself to not be afraid to meet new people and put myself out there for everyone. It's hard meeting new people but it's important to realize that everyone else is just as nervous to meet others as you are.

I would tell my past self to make sure you get into the habit of using all academic resources (TA’s, tutors, professor office hours, etc…) available. They will prove to be invaluable for you and the sooner you know how to use them the better. I would also tell my past self not to live in a dorm. Living off campus cost half as much and is twice as fun.

If I could back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would advise myself to not take one second for granted. I, like many other graduating seniors from my school, could not wait to leave and longed for freedom. I resented my town and thought college would be so much better because I would be on my own. I had no idea how hard the transition would be and how much I had taken for granted. I would advise myself to be thankful for every day that I had in each class, each test I took, and each teacher I talked to because it would never happen again. Looking back, I miss the little things that I once overlooked. Even the simplistic idea of walking in the door after a long day of school and being greeted by the wagging tail of my dog is something I wish I could relive again and again. Going to college taught me this extremely important life lesson, and now I have learned to cherish every moment. If I had not taken life for granted in my senior year, I would have been more prepared for the change.

My undergraduate education was critical in making me the person I am today. I was challenged academically, and explored different areas of study. I came to know what I wanted out of a future career and what I definitely did not want. As a student of URI I gained independence and learned how to be on my own. I was exposed to many different types of people and learned to get along with people who were different from me. I now can respect other viewpoints and am a more empathetic, well-rounded person. I am thankful everyday for graduating from URI and learning how to define myself and my future.

As most people say, "college is the time of your life," and I could not agree more. Initially going into college I was scared of being lost, but instead I actually found myself finding the true "me". Upon arrival, for days I struggled with finding a secure major fullfilling to my talents, ambitions, and hapiness in life, but the university helped me through several advising appointments and career explorations to find the most suitable major for ME. Now here at URI I find myself the happiest I've ever been. I am known here on campus to be a welcoming and personable person that everyone likes to be around and that feels so good to know. I have the perfect balance of time between fullfilling my rigorous classes while all the while meeting new friends and even being able to live my dream of playing field hockey in college. I have always dreamed to major in what makes me the happiest but all the while be able to balance the things I value most such as family, friends, athletics and personal time. URI is my new home where I work to my potential and blossom effortlessly everyday like never before.

I have learned so much in the short time that i have been here. Not just academicaly but socially as well. This is an experiance that i wouldnt trade for anything, and wish to continue.

I have made new friends with every new class. I have also been able to learn so much about myself such as what I want to study and how I learn best from my learning abilities compared to the classroom. I discovered my strengths and weaknesses when it comes to working in groups or by myself as well as a study technique that works for me. I hope other students have a wonderful experience like I do!