Whitman College Top Questions

We line up; the time starts; I run; I finish; That is the story of my first fitness test as a Whitman College varsity soccer player. Along with my matriculation at Whitman College in April came the knowledge that I would be playing varsity soccer and have to complete an assessment measuring my physical preparedness. This entailed a summer of training and anxiety. By August 18th, I was sufficiently scared out of my wits. While my fears that the test would be the most physically exhausting activity of my life did prove true, after ten minutes it was over and I could look forward to what came next. In retrospect, this fitness test was emblematic of my entire college transition. There was a lot of hype, it lived up to most of the hype, and then it was over and a new chapter begins. My most important advice to myself would be to recognize change as inevitable and to not let petty apprehensions detract from what is the most life-altering, positive transition of my life. Don’t get overwhelmed by fears, but enjoy your last months as a naïve high school student and embrace the change to come.

Three things you should know before coming to Whitman: 1) At the beginning of the school year, it can be really hot, so I would suggest bringing a fair amount of summer clothes. But also bring winter clothes too, because after a month or so, it starts becoming chilly. 2) Do ALL of the activities planned for you during Opening Week. They are all part of your Whitman experience and are all amazing. 3) Don't go overboard, but do bring a lot of things from home that will make your new home feel like "home." It helped me transition better. Also, consider bringing a lot of junk food--as means of making friends by bribery (i.e. chocolate).

If I could go back to my senior year, I would tell myself to quit goofing around and to take school more serious. Life threw me a beautiful baby of a curveball and it has only motivated me more to take school more serious. The first time i attempted classes at a community college fresh out of high school I was more worried about what all my friends were doing and failed a bunch of classes. Now, the second time around, I recently graduated with an associates of science degree in a medical assisting program with a 3.95 GPA and was a few days away from perfect attendance. I never would have thought that I had it in me to be so dedicated to school, but now that's all I'm about. I want a good future for both me and my baby girl. I always wanted to become a nurse long before I had children, but actually, now I'm even more excited to have my little one watch me walk across another stage but this time with a lifelong career in hand. You never know where life will take you. You have to get prepared!

An advice I will definetly give myself is to not wait to do the work last minute. College is really time consuming, yet it can be fun if we know how to manage our time correctly.

This applicant would challenge himself to remain focused and intrinsically motivated to retain the dream of attaining a higher education to acquire the soft and hard technological skills for the benefit of humanity and the environment in the spirit of excellence. All the while, he should sustain a spiritual balance and relationship with God, yet ever cognizant that he has been placed in this life to serve. The experiences gained while acquiring these technological skills in the halls of academia would enable and empower him with the rudimentary skills requisite of one who aspires to affect a catalyst for change to the world at-large. Because of his spiritual centeredness and worldly desire to be trained in a capacity to technologically, philosophically, and theosophically contribute to, and add his verve to this human melting pot, he must remain keenly aware of the impact he has on the behavior, thoughts, and actions of others. This striking awareness thereby causing him not to desire to abuse, mishandle, pervert, nor misuse those entrusted to his charge; this all, to the glory of God. Again, this applicant would endeavor to convey the ideology that with this great power comes due diligence and great responsibility.

Don't stress about college, you are well prepared. Talk to high school alums and learn from their experience. Listen to your parents and teachers, they actually do know a thing or two!

I would tell myself this - DO NOT FRET SO MUCH. I was so worried about whether or not I was making the right college choice that I failed to consider one crucial thing: there is not one perfect college for me. I gathered so much information on my top choices and loved visiting them so much that it was rediculous to think that there was a "wrong choice" that I could make in the end. I would be happy wherever I went. And accepting this statement in itself would increase my happiness with whatever choice I made. I found a wonderful new home in Whitman College. Worrying so much over the college process, despite the college process' obvious importance, could only hurt me in the end.

After I read this question, I was tempted to make a list of things to avoid at college. Never procrastinate, avoid that class, do not date that boy. But I realize giving myself advice about what NOT to do was negative. Instead, I would give myself a list of five positive tips. First, I would look my younger self straight in the eye and say: "have faith." Have faith in your talent, creativity, and charm. You are smart and strong, so have faith in yourself. Second, despite your strength, you will stumble sometimes. Ask for help when you falter. Friends and professors will be happy to give you support. Third, work hard. Fully apply yourself to everything you do. Anything less than your best is just not good enough. Fourth, let yourself fall in love. Fall in love with a subject that makes you excited to learn more. And let yourself fall in love with a boy. No, not your first boyfriend (he turns out to be rotten). But the second guy you love is definitely worthwhile. Fifth, revel in being young. You have options, opportunities, and open doors right in front of you. Enjoy every minute!

My college experience so far has been one of hard work, great people and developing the real me. Being away from the influences of home and family have forced me to evaluate who I really am and what I really want out of life and learning. Playing Division III soccer has given me a group of great friends and athletes, a great many sore muscles and a higher level of competition than I have ever experienced. Academicly, the professors are for the most part great. Caring and always able to find time to help. The campus is beautiful and the town of Walla Walla small enough to go anywhere on bike and find the things you need. Even if just getting away from it all is your goal. I am so happy I came to Whitman.

College in this past year has taught me more about life then the seventeen years I lived at home combined. I moved out of my parents house when I was seventeen and ever since then i've been working full time and going to school to make a difference for myself. I've learned how far determination will get me and even though some days I feel like i've hit my threshold that each assignment I complete and each class I attend is bringing me closer to my dream. I've also learned that nothing is handed to you on a silver plater and if you want it, your going to have to work for it.