Virginia Commonwealth University Top Questions

What should every freshman at Virginia Commonwealth University know before they start?

Joshua

The experience that I got by going to college is the best thing that i could of done. I learned something that i thought i could not do and i can use it for the rest of my life. By attend my class i have gained something they other people to not know i can use the knowledge that i learned and take it for the rest of my life and i am so happy that i attended my school.

Andrew

All your life, you search for that one special thing that brings out the best in you, makes you happy and gives you a purpose to live. Ever since I was a child, whether it was drawing with markers or painting my room, I have known my heart is set in design. Going into Interior Design at college is the best decision I have ever made. To me, I am not going to school. I am going to learn about and practice what I love to do. I want to attain everything I can so I can venture out and share my knowledge with the world. I want to help people see their dreams of creating a home, a restaurant, or their own small business come true. The relationships with professors and students also has enriched my education. Working among current and future designers has given me the chance to experience life after school while still being a safe and comfortable place to learn and make mistakes. College has given me the chance to see the full potential of the man I can become and has only inspired me to push myself to be the best I can be.

Alphonso

I have learned a lot about the "college life." I haven't had too much a hard time being away from home and I'm not too far away. I have met some really cool people, from here in the U.S. and all over the world. Classes have been a new experience for me. Not as much school work, except for math and english, but a lot of reading and studying needed. I'm a pretty good student and can get down to business when needed. Though there are peole around doing all kinds of things I keep focus on my learning. The cost isn't too bad but I would love to get this scholarship and others so I can further my education. There are many other schools but I wouldn't have had my first year anywhere else but Virginia Commonwealth University.

Tamara

Before attending Virginia Commonwealth University, the type of people I was aquainted with or surrounded myself with, were never that different from myself. At VCU there are so many people different from me from all over the world, and I have been fortunate enough to meet these people. I have learned so many things from my new found friends, and gained so many new perspectives on life.

Kimberly

College is different for everyone, for some it?s easier than high school, for others it isn?t. I?m kind of in between. Overall General Ed work isn?t that hard; Take notes in class, read the material, and study when there is a test coming up. What was a challenge for me were the numerous art projects and the stress that follows being a college freshman. My struggles with depression were the main focus in college and it often impaired me. From going through it all, I learned that I need to try separating my personal stresses from my schoolwork, because those really made my grades suffer. But since then I have prioritized more of my life and my art skills have improved greatly. I still know next to nothing after my first year of college, but I really look forward to learning much more and growing in the process.

Corey

I have gained so much during my first year in college, and it has changed my perception altogether. When I arrived here for the first time I was very naive, living the same way for so long blinded me from seeing many things. I had such a high view of myself, which isn't bad, unless you let if prevent you from doing new things as I did. I was scared to try new things in fear failing and tarnishing my self-proclaimed image. College, in short, humbled me. The experienced I've had here have helped me to realize that we are all trying to do the same thing, better ourselves, and sometimes we mess up. I now feel good about myself for what I've done, knowing that something is always to be learned. I have a greater appreciation for the time that I spend with friends and family. Most of all, I feel better about myself and what I can accomplish. I have more faith in myself because of all of the things that I've done, that at the time were seemingly impossible!

Heather

Attending VCU has altered my original perception of college life. Better known for it's art school than the sciences, VCU encourages students to accept themselves and to embelish on our natural strengths and talents. I have made many friends here and have experienced cultures I never had before through the amazing food and restaurant community, the artists and their galleries, music and small concert halls and recreational acitivity. I've discovered and experienced city life, learning to ride a bike everyday and taking public transportation. My political views have wavered between different beliefs because the residents and the students here are so passionate in what they believe in, it can be hard for an outsider to choose just one side. I've become an avid runner and embrace the moments of exploration and relaxation along the James River, where you will always see a familiar face. I've volunteered and improved the lives of people and animals alike. VCU aided in my development into the strong, healthy and driven person I am today through my experiences not just inside the classroom, but outside as well.

Courtney

Thus far in my college experiance I have learned many valueable things. I have learned how to manage my time wisely and efficently in order to get what I need to get done finished. College has also taught me more about myself as a person too. I have learned better study habits that I wish I would have developed in highschool. I have also learned to branch out of my shell and meet new people. By learning this, I have met some of the greatest people that are now a good part of my life. College is such an awsome experience that everyone should have the opportunity to experience it. The major thing that has come from college for me is that I have become an adult and have experienced real life situations that have shaped my way of thinking for the better.

Shay

I've gotten a new sense of independence. College has been valueable to attend becuase I feel like at the end I'll be a more well rounded person and have gained so much more than I would've expected. The vibe from college is different than high school and I like that. i like that everyone there is mature and more adultlike whereas high school, just seems like a bunch of kids.

Elizabeth

When I decided to attend VCU, it was primarily because I had been accepted into one of the best Nursing programs in Virginia. Little did I know that this school would open my eyes to much more than just a top-rated Nursing school. Virginia Commonwealth University is full of diversity, hospitality, and brilliance found in forms other than just a great GPA. Known for its fantastic Art program, VCU also thrives in students pursuing degrees in Psychology, Medicine, Teaching, and Business. The diversity of programs offered also brings an assortment of students, having different characteristics and skills waiting to be developed. During my two semesters at VCU, I made more valuable friends of all different ages and backgrounds, including alumni and faculty, than I have ever made. Although living in the dorm was not one of my favorite parts of living on campus, it forced me to go beyond my social barriers and meet freshman just like me. The Nursing program is a large workload, but also carries its advantages such as being taught by the Dean of Nursing and making connections with other nursing students. I love VCU for everything that it is, not just the Nursing school.