University of the Incarnate Word Top Questions

What should every freshman at University of the Incarnate Word know before they start?

Lauren

I would tell myself to fill out as many scholarships as possible, to have a better chance of getting more money so I wouldn't have to worry about being not able to finish college at my choice school because lack of funds. I would also tell myself to get use to reading the books for each class, taking notes quickly, and forming study groups with people in your classes. Its also important not to miss class if at all possible because it is harder to make things up in college if your professors allow it at all, and you are paying for your own education so you might as well get your moneys worth. The main thing would be knowing when to ask for help, and not being afraid to go to your professors office hours, because they are there to help if you are willing to learn.

Patricia

What you do in college will follow you for the rest of your life. Don't get distracted; the partying, the clubs, and relationships will always be there. Grades do make a difference; they open many doors of opportunities for scholarships and grants. Don't give up. . . .

Edith

Listen to your instincts and do not be afraid. A degree from a university will facilitate many of the obstacles that lay ahead. To succeed in a business environment, you need a degree. As a young latino woman, take advantage of your virtues and pursue your international business degree. I was on the right track. I earned dual credit from Palo Alto college while attending high school. Unfortunately, our family finances got the best of my situation. All I needed was a bit of courage to submerge myself in school and worry less about the finances. I decided to help my father and joined the work force full time immediately after high school. My journey has not been easy, but I am on the right track again. Now, I have more responsibility, but I am finishing my degree this coming year. I plan to graduate from the University of the Incarnate Word this coming year but not alone. I will graduate with Tom (husband), Isabella (6 year daughter), and Joshua (4 year old) son by my side.

Gabriella

I would go back and tell my self that you should take as many Dual credit classes as you can possibly take because you still get highschool credit while you are recieving college credit, and that will save you so much money. Also you should really go to summer school dont follow what your friends want to do you do what you want because you want to. And i say that because your friends come and go but what you decide now is your future.And plus you get ahead. Dont wait till the last minute to do finacial aid, and dont wait to turn in scholarship applications. but while in school know what you want to do after you graduate. Keep your grades up your senior year is by far the most important aside from prom and graduation parties. You need to stay focused and keep your mind set on what you want. College cost alot of money and its no joke. its your future!

Marcus

What I would tell myself is to try and receive a little more scholarships to pay the cost of tution rather than having to resort to loans. As of now I have two student loans under my name and another one under my parents. Mine aren't that bad because I don't have to pay them till after I graduate but my parents are having to pay them as of now. Also try to get a workstudy job as soon as possible. I was offered it my first year at UIW but failed to get all the nessary steps to getting it to work that year but this year I got the workstudy been working this past semester and it has help a lot greatly. Another thing I would tell myself is don't major in Computer Graphics because I recently changed from that because it was just to much of a hassle for me that first year and now I'm majoring in Computer Information Systems. I would tell myself just stay with Computers in general as your major.

Chrystal

I know you do not need my advice. You already have a well thought out and carefully scrutinized plan outlining your entire future. Nevertheless, there are a few things I think you should know. First, college is not four more years of high school. College is a journey characterized largely by freedom of choice. With freedom comes enormous responsibility and some of your carefully made plans will fail. For this reason- be flexible. Second, you do not have to decide the rest of your life today. You may take classes and meet people that change your perspective in everyway. Things you never knew will become important to you. For this reason- be open. Finally, although it is good to have a plan and stick to it, do not forget to take a few risks along the way. Sometimes it is possible to be so careful and so organized that you miss out on some of life?s most precious moments. For this reason- be brave. You are ready and focused, just do not get lulled into thinking you know everything. College, and life, are full of the unexpected and will require courage, an open heart and a flexible mind.

Frederick

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, knowing what I know now about college life and making the transition, the advise I would give myself is to not let myself get burned out about working hard, and remember all the work and dedication I had put into my school work before hand, to use that as the inspiration to not let even the smallest bit of procrastination work its way through my being. I would say, work smart, and not just hard; manage your time wisely, and don't let the little things in life and work drag you away from the overall important goals, in that, be a perfectionist. And get as many scholarships as you can, and don't complain about taking time out of your leisure activities to get ahead! It didn't stop you before. And know that God is with you, and that you have nothing to fear, not even fear itself.

Maria

Dear Me: You are about to enter into a world of the unknown and knowledge is power so I am here to prepare you for what is comming your way in college. first, face everything with knowledge, respect and values. Research every step you take in school; from your degree selection to your school's accreditation. Do not have any relationships until you graduate ! Please, Never be shy or afraid of class presentations and lock yourself as much as you can in the library or your car until you finish your homework! Place in your head very good that school is #1 and everything else comes 2nd. Choose a degree that you will marry forever until you die. volunteer to help the need and learn from the wise people that have build greatness in this world. Never loose your sense of humor and respect for others. Keep your strength and head up all the time. Never be afraid of the unknown and be a leader that creates its own path to greatness. earning a degree is called a degree because when you reach one, you have gotten into a degree of self respect and knowledge.

Martha

I have thought about this question so many times before, especially now that I just acomplished my dream of getting an Associates degree. If I could go back in time and talk to my High School self, I would start by telling myself that I am not alone. I would tell myself that even though it seems like the end of the world losing your father, there are much bigger trials in life that I would eventually face. I would tell myself that I need to focus on school because that would be the best way to honor my father. He always said that the best inheritance one can leave their child is an education. I would tell myself that's true Martha. College is a neccessity and valuable. I would tell myself that I know what potential I have and that the dream that your father and you had of going to the University of the Incarnate Word is possible! It is unbelievable just how fantastic college is! Martha, you can become the first to graduate from college in your family! You can go as far as get your Masters and even have that career you dreamed about!

Lisl

College: the unknown academic universe, the great enigma that haunts all high school seniors who wish to further their education. As a university student, I am now able to offer a few sage words of advice to my former self and all current and future high school seniors who wish to learn some helpful tips. The first piece of advice I have to offer is to take the SAT more than once. The first round of testing never goes as well as you hope and you are better prepared for taking it again. Also, apply to colleges that have a diverse program. You may change your mind more than once regarding your major and you want to attend a school that offers different classes in a variety of academic and professional fields. I would advise my eighteen year old self to try and live on campus, even if just for one year. Living on campus helps make friends for your first year and contributes to your social life. It also makes participating is extracurricular activities much easier. Good luck and remember to stay focused on your goal throughout your academic years!