52 answers
Jowell
Student
Virginia Beach, Virginia
1
Question
Updated
1755 views
Any advice for a upcoming college freshman?
I will be attending Old Dominion University majoring in Cytotechnology #college #college-advice
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52 answers
Todd Jurow
Project Manager
22
Answers
New Jersey, New Jersey
Updated
Todd’s Answer
As a parent of an incoming college Freshman, I can tell you that this is a very bizarre time to transition to college. It's June and we still don't have clarity if college will be in-person, remote or a hybrid. Covid-19 has changed expectations and is keeping everyone guessing. While I don't know your particular situation (going to a local or distant college, dorming or commuting, etc.), you'll need to adjust to whatever your school determines to be the right course of action. Everyone at your school will be in the same situation, so any anxieties will be shared. I suggest that you start making connections with fellow classmates now, as there are groups forming via Facebook, Discord, Snapchat, etc. Not only can you meet potential roommates, but also students in your particular academic discipline. If you're planning on participating in extracurricular activities, there are communities for that as well.
Start exploring and connecting now and you'll be extra prepared for whatever college will be this Fall. Best of luck to you!
Start exploring and connecting now and you'll be extra prepared for whatever college will be this Fall. Best of luck to you!
Kamesha Pickett
Human Resources
2
Answers
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Updated
Kamesha’s Answer
Remember the reason why you’re attending college as there are a lot of distractions especially as a freshman. There are quite of few activities to be involved in on campus so I suggest finding something that peak your interests as a positive hobby. If you are attending close to home plan out visits to see loved ones.
Research majors or career fields early
Kamesha recommends the following next steps:
John Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1013
Answers
California, CA
Updated
John’s Answer
Remember Jowell, you need to remember a college education is an investment in yourself. Your investment of time and money hopefully gets you that fulfilling career that allows you to live a life unburdened by debt.
INVEST IN YOURSELF WITH A COLLEGE EDUCATION
Most students are advised to treat their college education like finding a 'soul mate' and are told to look for a place where they'll be happy, Remember Jowell you need to think about choosing like any investment, some are better than others. A degree in basket weaving, Renaissance art or golf is likely to result in significantly lower earnings than a degree in information technology, business or the health sciences. Choosing your major wisely is a lot like selecting an appropriate investment for your long-term portfolio. In other words, you need to choose something that dovetails with your goals and has a realistic opportunity to provide the return on investment that you are anticipating.
FIND THE RIGHT COLLGE FOR YOUR INVESTMENT – Choosing a college is about more than the name on the diploma. Wherever you decide to go to school will touch numerous aspects of your life, from academic studies, social activities and beyond. Considering the importance of this decision, hopefully you, weighed the pros and cons in choosing this particular college, carefully consider your wants and needs and that this university was best to help you reach your investment in yourself in the next four years or longer.
INVESTMENTS ARE RISKEY – Every investment has risk, and a college education is no different. One of the greatest risks is that you extend your stay beyond four years (increases your initial cost) or don’t graduate at all (diminishes your return). This is another reason the college selection process was so important. To address these risks, my advise is you work with a college admissions professional who can help you determine where you might fit in best, select a major you will stick with and increase your odds of graduating on time.
SEE THE TRUE COST OF A UNIVERSITY – Of course, getting a degree is easier said than done. The cost of a college education is high, and it's only getting higher. In fact, the cost of education has risen faster than inflation over the past decade, and tuition at a four-year public university is estimated at $12,000 dollars per year for the 2020 – 2021 school year. Costs are also higher for students who live on campus. Because learning financial responsibility is just one of the many lessons that we all must face, choosing to commute rather than live on campus is a financially prudent decision that can save tens of thousands of dollars.
FOCUS ON YOU FUTURE – The focus on the cost of college is misplaced. While the cost of a single year, particularly at a private school, can be significant, most college graduates will earn back the amount spent in a single year of working. In some cases, such as graduates from public education institutions, their first year's salary will cover the cost of all four years in college. How would you like to invest $48,000 and have it turn into $4 million? Thousands of people do it. Their investment strategy involves a four-year commitment to education. The payoff begins with the receipt of a college degree, which opens the door to a lifetime of earnings that otherwise might not have been possible to obtain. In this article, we'll show you the million-dollar benefits of choosing to pursue an education.
Jowell the significant earnings that a college graduate can expect provide the opportunity to enjoy material comforts. A nice car, a nice home and some spending money in your pocket are the traditional rewards for financial success. Likewise, increased earnings provide an opportunity to save and invest. As a college graduate you'll have the opportunity to not only enjoy a comfortable lifestyle during your working years, but your increased earnings will provide the opportunity to save and invest to ensure a financially secure retirement.
Hope this was Helpful Jowell
Think about which majors will be the most valuable 10 years from now.
Download the official curriculum for each major and talk to the professors each of those majors.
Interview upper-classmen who’ve taken those majors about the pros and cons.
INVEST IN YOURSELF WITH A COLLEGE EDUCATION
Most students are advised to treat their college education like finding a 'soul mate' and are told to look for a place where they'll be happy, Remember Jowell you need to think about choosing like any investment, some are better than others. A degree in basket weaving, Renaissance art or golf is likely to result in significantly lower earnings than a degree in information technology, business or the health sciences. Choosing your major wisely is a lot like selecting an appropriate investment for your long-term portfolio. In other words, you need to choose something that dovetails with your goals and has a realistic opportunity to provide the return on investment that you are anticipating.
FIND THE RIGHT COLLGE FOR YOUR INVESTMENT – Choosing a college is about more than the name on the diploma. Wherever you decide to go to school will touch numerous aspects of your life, from academic studies, social activities and beyond. Considering the importance of this decision, hopefully you, weighed the pros and cons in choosing this particular college, carefully consider your wants and needs and that this university was best to help you reach your investment in yourself in the next four years or longer.
INVESTMENTS ARE RISKEY – Every investment has risk, and a college education is no different. One of the greatest risks is that you extend your stay beyond four years (increases your initial cost) or don’t graduate at all (diminishes your return). This is another reason the college selection process was so important. To address these risks, my advise is you work with a college admissions professional who can help you determine where you might fit in best, select a major you will stick with and increase your odds of graduating on time.
SEE THE TRUE COST OF A UNIVERSITY – Of course, getting a degree is easier said than done. The cost of a college education is high, and it's only getting higher. In fact, the cost of education has risen faster than inflation over the past decade, and tuition at a four-year public university is estimated at $12,000 dollars per year for the 2020 – 2021 school year. Costs are also higher for students who live on campus. Because learning financial responsibility is just one of the many lessons that we all must face, choosing to commute rather than live on campus is a financially prudent decision that can save tens of thousands of dollars.
FOCUS ON YOU FUTURE – The focus on the cost of college is misplaced. While the cost of a single year, particularly at a private school, can be significant, most college graduates will earn back the amount spent in a single year of working. In some cases, such as graduates from public education institutions, their first year's salary will cover the cost of all four years in college. How would you like to invest $48,000 and have it turn into $4 million? Thousands of people do it. Their investment strategy involves a four-year commitment to education. The payoff begins with the receipt of a college degree, which opens the door to a lifetime of earnings that otherwise might not have been possible to obtain. In this article, we'll show you the million-dollar benefits of choosing to pursue an education.
Jowell the significant earnings that a college graduate can expect provide the opportunity to enjoy material comforts. A nice car, a nice home and some spending money in your pocket are the traditional rewards for financial success. Likewise, increased earnings provide an opportunity to save and invest. As a college graduate you'll have the opportunity to not only enjoy a comfortable lifestyle during your working years, but your increased earnings will provide the opportunity to save and invest to ensure a financially secure retirement.
Hope this was Helpful Jowell
John recommends the following next steps:
Thank You Todd. If we want to touch the past, touch a rock. If we want to touch the present, touch a flower. If we want to touch the future, touch a life.
John Frick
Thank You Joseph. “Remember that the happiest people are not those getting more, but those giving more.” ― H. Jackson Brown Jr.
John Frick
Sacoyah Montgomery
3
Answers
New Brunswick, New Jersey
Updated
Sacoyah’s Answer
First I want to say CONGRATULATIONS! College is an exciting time for you to get truly know yourself if you already don't.
College is very different from high school:
1. In high school you have back to back classes from 7:30am-2:30pm every day. In college you can have one class two times a week for a hour and a half each day or even one class only one day a week. You will find yourself with a lot of free time. I would say to get involved, there are many different organizations that you can join based on your interests, this will give you a support system of like minded individuals. Just don't make that your main priority, your education is your first priority. It is important to be social but at the same time do not let being social come into competition with your class work and studying because you are there first to gain an education. This can be a little confusing because I mentioned to get involved, you have to learn to create a balance of FUN and BUSINESS. The one skill that you will take with you as you become an adult.
2. You will not have your parents there to remind you about certain deadlines or due dates. My greatest advice is to get yourself a planner so you can mark important dates like when a paper is due or when you have a test. Even mark your social events and study times. It helps you practice time management.
3. This one is a little funny. Don't be tempted to gain the freshman 15. Fifteen lbs that is. Stay active, eat healthy and drink water. You know the things your parents tell you to do like, "eat your veggies." Believe me you'll thank me later.
5. Don't be afraid to ask for help. This can be from anywhere from:
a. Classwork - professors have office hours where you can ask questions. There are tutor available for each subject
b. Experiencing anxiety - there are student health centers that can help you get adjusted to college life. Don't be afraid to use these services. Mental health is important.
c. Selecting a major - You will be assigned a counselor. Get to know them, set up a meeting in the beginning of the semester to ask them questions about different careers in your major, best electives to take and so on.
d. Which organizations to join - There should be an Office of Student Life somewhere on campus. They will have a list of all the organizations located on campus. They are a great source to start on how to be social.
6. And most importantly HAVE FUN. College is about learning through experiences. Enjoy yourself, experiment with your individuality. Try to stay positive and take care of your mental health.
College is very different from high school:
1. In high school you have back to back classes from 7:30am-2:30pm every day. In college you can have one class two times a week for a hour and a half each day or even one class only one day a week. You will find yourself with a lot of free time. I would say to get involved, there are many different organizations that you can join based on your interests, this will give you a support system of like minded individuals. Just don't make that your main priority, your education is your first priority. It is important to be social but at the same time do not let being social come into competition with your class work and studying because you are there first to gain an education. This can be a little confusing because I mentioned to get involved, you have to learn to create a balance of FUN and BUSINESS. The one skill that you will take with you as you become an adult.
2. You will not have your parents there to remind you about certain deadlines or due dates. My greatest advice is to get yourself a planner so you can mark important dates like when a paper is due or when you have a test. Even mark your social events and study times. It helps you practice time management.
3. This one is a little funny. Don't be tempted to gain the freshman 15. Fifteen lbs that is. Stay active, eat healthy and drink water. You know the things your parents tell you to do like, "eat your veggies." Believe me you'll thank me later.
5. Don't be afraid to ask for help. This can be from anywhere from:
a. Classwork - professors have office hours where you can ask questions. There are tutor available for each subject
b. Experiencing anxiety - there are student health centers that can help you get adjusted to college life. Don't be afraid to use these services. Mental health is important.
c. Selecting a major - You will be assigned a counselor. Get to know them, set up a meeting in the beginning of the semester to ask them questions about different careers in your major, best electives to take and so on.
d. Which organizations to join - There should be an Office of Student Life somewhere on campus. They will have a list of all the organizations located on campus. They are a great source to start on how to be social.
6. And most importantly HAVE FUN. College is about learning through experiences. Enjoy yourself, experiment with your individuality. Try to stay positive and take care of your mental health.
Alexander Urkiel
Risk Analyst
8
Answers
Westfield, Massachusetts
Updated
Alexander’s Answer
Hi Jowell, I highly recommend exploring introductory classes. Take advantage of being a new student and try different courses to see what peaks your interest. Use your first year to really figure out what you want to do with your future, and it's OK if that takes more than the first year. I didn't set my major until the end of my sophomore year. I tried 4 different programs and I'm happy to say, I know I ended up at the right one!
I wish you luck!
I wish you luck!
Chirayu Rupani
Data Analyst
228
Answers
Frisco, Texas
Updated
Chirayu’s Answer
Yes, here are a few pieces of advice for an upcoming college freshman:
-Get involved on campus by join clubs, organizations or attend events to meet new people, develop new skills and broaden your perspectives.
-Manage your time effectively and time management is key to success in college, balance your coursework, extracurricular activities and personal life.
-Ask for help and don't be afraid to reach out to professors, advisors, or tutors if you need help.
-Stay organized and keep track of important dates, deadlines and assignments to stay on top of your responsibilities.
-Explore your interests as college is a great time to try new things, so take advantage of the opportunities available to you and find your passions.
-Get to know your professors and build relationships with your professors as it can be valuable for academic and career growth.
-Get involved on campus by join clubs, organizations or attend events to meet new people, develop new skills and broaden your perspectives.
-Manage your time effectively and time management is key to success in college, balance your coursework, extracurricular activities and personal life.
-Ask for help and don't be afraid to reach out to professors, advisors, or tutors if you need help.
-Stay organized and keep track of important dates, deadlines and assignments to stay on top of your responsibilities.
-Explore your interests as college is a great time to try new things, so take advantage of the opportunities available to you and find your passions.
-Get to know your professors and build relationships with your professors as it can be valuable for academic and career growth.
Pace B
Government Relations
2
Answers
Chevy Chase, Maryland
Updated
Pace’s Answer
I thought I would provide a few thoughts that can help make a successful first year in college:
- Try to create some structure outside of your class schedule. You will have a lot more time in your day and putting in scheduled time to do your school work, workout, etc. will go a long way in your success. And limit the chances of doing major projects last minute.
- If you are not 100% sure of your major, consider taking some of your electives in another area of study. These can help round out your overall education as well as help you put your toe in the water in other areas that may be of interest.
- Always keep things in perspective! This is true throughout life but the first few weeks/months of college can be challenging for a lot of different reasons. Setbacks happen but don't let them consume you. Just try to use them as valuable learning experiences and building blocks for success.
Best of luck,
-Pace
- Try to create some structure outside of your class schedule. You will have a lot more time in your day and putting in scheduled time to do your school work, workout, etc. will go a long way in your success. And limit the chances of doing major projects last minute.
- If you are not 100% sure of your major, consider taking some of your electives in another area of study. These can help round out your overall education as well as help you put your toe in the water in other areas that may be of interest.
- Always keep things in perspective! This is true throughout life but the first few weeks/months of college can be challenging for a lot of different reasons. Setbacks happen but don't let them consume you. Just try to use them as valuable learning experiences and building blocks for success.
Best of luck,
-Pace
Matthew Cohen
Sr. Risk Management Analyst
4
Answers
Miami, Florida
Updated
Matthew’s Answer
My degree required me to take at least 2 writing courses. Remember that your professors are required by your school to have office hours where they have to answer any questions you may have.
Whenever I got an essay assignment, I would write my first draft, take it to the professor during their writing hours (and brought my laptop with the essay open) and I would make the changes the professor gave me in real time. That way, if I were to hand it in, they should have no reason NOT to give me an A on it.
College is a great time to learn how to work smarter, not harder :)
Whenever I got an essay assignment, I would write my first draft, take it to the professor during their writing hours (and brought my laptop with the essay open) and I would make the changes the professor gave me in real time. That way, if I were to hand it in, they should have no reason NOT to give me an A on it.
College is a great time to learn how to work smarter, not harder :)
Anne Ramsey
Sales Manager
9
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Anne’s Answer
College is a wonderful time in life to learn, meet new people, and hone in on what you might want to do as a career. I recommend being open minded, and taking advantage of all in-person or on-line resources that your college may offer. Be open to learning about careers you may not have thought of, in addition to seeking out a mentor at the college who can help you through your journey. Good luck!
Denise Lynch
Retail Loan Servicing Generalist
4
Answers
Pittsfield, Massachusetts
Updated
Denise’s Answer
As a mother of a student who just finished his freshman year of college it is definitely an adjustment for everyone of course you the student has the bigger adjustment ....A. being away from home. B. Living on your own having to do things for yourself and having to experience a whole new world of independence.
One of the biggest things is not be a hermit, don't stay stuck in your dorm (if living on campus) attend group meetings and get involved on campus as much as you can this can be done even if not on campus. Not saying partying, I am saying getting involved in different groups helps you meet new people and learn about ways of doing things while away at school and learning things about the school.
This helped my son very much and even with his workload he was able to get a small job on campus working 20 hours a week and will be maintaining that same job when he returns this fall for his sophmore year.
I hope this helps a little and wishing you all the best in your college future and beyond.
One of the biggest things is not be a hermit, don't stay stuck in your dorm (if living on campus) attend group meetings and get involved on campus as much as you can this can be done even if not on campus. Not saying partying, I am saying getting involved in different groups helps you meet new people and learn about ways of doing things while away at school and learning things about the school.
This helped my son very much and even with his workload he was able to get a small job on campus working 20 hours a week and will be maintaining that same job when he returns this fall for his sophmore year.
I hope this helps a little and wishing you all the best in your college future and beyond.
Abhinav Janappareddi
College student
25
Answers
Bothell, Washington
Updated
Abhinav’s Answer
Hey! I have a few pieces of advice that I feel will be beneficial.
1) Have fun and make sure you are branching out socially
2) Make sure you build time-management skills since you will have many distractions. It may seem daunting to manage a full course load and maintain a social life, campus job, club involvement etc
3)take classes you are interested in not just blow off classes. You are paying a hefty tuition amount so it makes sense to take in as much knowledge as you can and challenge yourself
4)take a light course load to get acclimated to the rigors of college. It's not high school anymore and often times the exams are so difficult that there is actually a substantial curve. Allow yourself to get used to how college works and then feel free to take heavier course loads as you progress
5)Make sure you make use of all the resources available to you. If you are struggling in a class utilize the tutoring services. If you would like to begin searching for internships utilize your school's career services. Now that it is college you are expected to be proactive and search for opportunities.
Hope this helps!
1) Have fun and make sure you are branching out socially
2) Make sure you build time-management skills since you will have many distractions. It may seem daunting to manage a full course load and maintain a social life, campus job, club involvement etc
3)take classes you are interested in not just blow off classes. You are paying a hefty tuition amount so it makes sense to take in as much knowledge as you can and challenge yourself
4)take a light course load to get acclimated to the rigors of college. It's not high school anymore and often times the exams are so difficult that there is actually a substantial curve. Allow yourself to get used to how college works and then feel free to take heavier course loads as you progress
5)Make sure you make use of all the resources available to you. If you are struggling in a class utilize the tutoring services. If you would like to begin searching for internships utilize your school's career services. Now that it is college you are expected to be proactive and search for opportunities.
Hope this helps!
Richard A.
physician
2155
Answers
Updated
Richard’s Answer
Treat school like a job. Get up early, get to work and when your work is done at the end of the day, you can spend time on social life or organizations.
Go to class. Plan to spend 2-3 hours studying for every hour of lecture. Attend your professor's office hours and any TA review sessions. If there is a test bank, use that as a study tool to understand what your professor wants you to focus on for the test.
Go to class. Plan to spend 2-3 hours studying for every hour of lecture. Attend your professor's office hours and any TA review sessions. If there is a test bank, use that as a study tool to understand what your professor wants you to focus on for the test.
Simeon Snow
Risk Assurance
1793
Answers
Houston, Texas
Updated
Simeon’s Answer
Look at the curriculum for your classes, print them off, and take a look at the assignments percentage of your total grade. This will give you a better idea of what to focus on when it comes to studying. Look for good work-study options on campus. There are sometimes really easy assignments and you can even sometimes be allowed to do your homework while doing some of them. For instance, I worked in the front desk of my dorm signing in visitors and sorting mail. If there were no mail or visitors, I was able to work on my homework while I waited and it was easy to focus on getting it done since I couldn't leave the desk. This helped me support myself financially while also giving me focused study time.
Christina McFelia
13
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Christina’s Answer
First, congratulations on such a great achievement! Remember to look at everything you experience in college as a learning opportunity. You will learn a lot about who you are and who you want to be over the course of four years. Bring your whole self to class and extracurricular activities. It’s the perfect time to try something new, so don’t be afraid to take a risk and join a club you wouldn’t have joined in high school. You will get out as much as you put in. Stay true to yourself and while you are working hard and being involved on campus, remember to take care of your own, personal wellness.
Devron Robinson
Banker
3
Answers
New Jersey, New Jersey
Updated
Devron’s Answer
1. Don’t worry so much.
There are lots of these pre-freshman-year lists, so many that it can seem like high school is a rickety bridge hung over lava, so treacherous that we must advise you on everything, lest you slip and become human fondue. (I watched Shrek yesterday. I’m also hungry.) But it’s not that. Relax. There are no dragons in high school.
2. High school is a game of inches.
But there are finals. Let me introduce you to your new least favorite number: 89. (So close, and yet so far away.) Come finals week, the difference between an A and a B might be less than half a percentage point. This 4th-and-goal scenario happens often. But it doesn’t have to be this way.
3. Play small ball.
Over a semester, small actions pile up. Always do the extra credit assignments. Always correct a test or essay when offered. And always dress up as Jay Gatsby or Sydney Carton or Gimley or whoever your teacher asks you to. Your grade will improve and, just as importantly, your teacher will see your effort and may “bump you up” at the end of the semester if you need it.
4. The French got something right.
There’s a concept in cooking called mise-en-place, basically French for “put in place.” Some chefs spend more time preparing their station than they do cooking. I find this inspiring and uber-applicable. (I’m also still hungry.) Find a way to organize your life that works for you. Always be preparing and prioritizing; use 10 minutes after a test or two hours before a practice. Don’t waste it. Chip away at homework now, and your future self will thank you when you want to watch Teen Wolf.
5. If conflicted between staying in and going out, choose the latter.
Your fondest high school memories won’t be made in your room. (At least the PG ones.) Go to the big game. Go to the big dance. Even go to the small hangout. Never turn down a chance to make a connection.
There are lots of these pre-freshman-year lists, so many that it can seem like high school is a rickety bridge hung over lava, so treacherous that we must advise you on everything, lest you slip and become human fondue. (I watched Shrek yesterday. I’m also hungry.) But it’s not that. Relax. There are no dragons in high school.
2. High school is a game of inches.
But there are finals. Let me introduce you to your new least favorite number: 89. (So close, and yet so far away.) Come finals week, the difference between an A and a B might be less than half a percentage point. This 4th-and-goal scenario happens often. But it doesn’t have to be this way.
3. Play small ball.
Over a semester, small actions pile up. Always do the extra credit assignments. Always correct a test or essay when offered. And always dress up as Jay Gatsby or Sydney Carton or Gimley or whoever your teacher asks you to. Your grade will improve and, just as importantly, your teacher will see your effort and may “bump you up” at the end of the semester if you need it.
4. The French got something right.
There’s a concept in cooking called mise-en-place, basically French for “put in place.” Some chefs spend more time preparing their station than they do cooking. I find this inspiring and uber-applicable. (I’m also still hungry.) Find a way to organize your life that works for you. Always be preparing and prioritizing; use 10 minutes after a test or two hours before a practice. Don’t waste it. Chip away at homework now, and your future self will thank you when you want to watch Teen Wolf.
5. If conflicted between staying in and going out, choose the latter.
Your fondest high school memories won’t be made in your room. (At least the PG ones.) Go to the big game. Go to the big dance. Even go to the small hangout. Never turn down a chance to make a connection.
Edward Langellier
Business Banking Loan Officer
4
Answers
Smithfield, Rhode Island
Updated
Edward’s Answer
Congratulations on your High School graduation and for making a great decision to further your education by going on to college!
College is a fantastic experience. It will be far different than your high school days, but different in a very positive way. Honestly, the first several weeks can be stressful but don't get overly stressed or concerned. That feeling will soon pass! My advice would be relax, enjoy the full experience, go to your classes, give every class your full effort and get evolved! If you do those few things, you will be successful and you will have a great college experience.
I wish you all the best!
Ed
College is a fantastic experience. It will be far different than your high school days, but different in a very positive way. Honestly, the first several weeks can be stressful but don't get overly stressed or concerned. That feeling will soon pass! My advice would be relax, enjoy the full experience, go to your classes, give every class your full effort and get evolved! If you do those few things, you will be successful and you will have a great college experience.
I wish you all the best!
Ed
Ricardo Sosa
College Student- MIS
6
Answers
Tucson, Arizona
Updated