Clemson University Top Questions

What should every freshman at Clemson University know before they start?

Caroline

I would say, take the first semester slow, do not try to be involved in everything on campus right when you arrive. Once you get your classes and you see your tests schedules, you will agree it was a good idea to not join that extra club that had a meeting that night and you feel bad for missing it. Remember, you are there to get a degree and get good grades, but also have fun. Do not forget to call home, they miss you and want to know that you are doing well. Your mom is sending you to school, so do not mess it up and help her everyway that you possibly can, remember when she kept bugging your about those scholarships and you only did a few, well do more.

Tanya

The summer after high school graduation I would often find myself crying and dreading the fact that I had to go off to school in a few months. Looking back, I think it is so silly that I was so afraid. College has truly been the best experience of my life, and I've only been there for one year! I wish I could have told myself to look forward to a new beginning and to embrace the experience with open arms. I would have encouraged myself to get excited about going to school, to pick out cool things for my dorm room instead of just the essentials, to enjoy the first few weeks of class--because they are the easiest, and to not hold back. I wish I was not so withdrawn and shy. I would advise myself to always carry an umbrella in my backpack, go to the bagel shop for breakfast, and study on the second floor of the library. I would also tell myself to join more clubs and participate in more activities on campus instead of stressing about schoolwork. Finally, wake up bright and early on football Saturdays and get ready for a long day!

Berkeley

In my experience, the best way you can make your college experience the best it can be is by getting involved on campus. If there aren't a lot of student organizations, start some! Plus, future employees love to see signs of leadership from your years in college! One recommendation: Don't go home on the weekends! That never helps. So much happens on the weekends and I guarantee you'll make friends a lot faster if you stay on campus. When you're choosing a university, make sure you feel comfortable on the campus when you go to visit. Could you see this place as your home one day? Also, find out if there is somewhere, off-campus or on-campus, where you can use your talents or hobbies. For example, if you love to act and there is not a strong theatre program on campus, look for a community theatre nearby. Lastly, look for places on or off campus where you can show leadership and contribute to the college and to the community instead of only looking at what the university can offer you, as important as that is. :-)

Amy

As a satisfied college student, I have some useful advice on choosing the right school and making and the most of your college experience. The first step in choosing the right college is figuring out how far you want to travel. Choose a travel distance radius and have most of the schools you check out be in that radius. Next, decide on something that interests you and pick a school that offers a degree in that area. If you're not sure, choose a school with a wide range of options- that way, you can take different classes and get a feel for your passions. Finally, choose your top schools and go on an overnight trip to each and stay with a real college student in the dorms and go to classes for a day. You'll get a feel for what it's really like to be at that school. Once at school, get involved! Join a club that interests you and develop a personal relationship with your professors. Make sure you practice good time management and take advantage of the tutoring services on campus. Be aware of all the opportunities that are now yours and have fun!

Korde

I would advise parents and students NOT to choose their school based on who else is there. Further down the road, your success will not hinge on where your friends or people you know attended school. What is important is that the student feels, comfortable, supported, and most importantly, that they will THRIVE and EXCEL in the given envirionment. Also, choose a college or university where you see yourself experiencing the most growth. That school may be 30 minutes from home, or 30 hours from school. Progressive thinking is key.

Wesley

The most important thing about getting the most out of college experience is going to a college that has a good balance of academics and social activities. You want to go to a school that is academically prestigious and has good programs for your interest of study because after all, you're going there to prepare for your future career. However, you don't want to consume your life with work, and the same goes for college. You do not want to make studying and academics something you do every second while you are at college. Students need time to relax, unwind, and have time for themselves. Unfortunately money is also a large factor. It can be very difficult to pay for college, so it is important to apply for scholarships and financial aid because the potential for a good education should not be hindered by money.

Sejal

Dear Prospective Students and Parents/Guardians, Do you best at your college or university that you may be attending because any school means hard work. The degree you are trying to obtain will not be given to you, but instead you have to earn it. Attending college is the start of your new life; so use your advantages the best you may know how and make something of yourself. The world needs intelligent young men and women to continue making it a better place. Always strive for success and never give up.

Katharine

I would definitely say that you need to visit the colleges you are interested in. It gives you a great idea about what it would be like to be living there for a year! I was torn between two schools, but when I visited Clemson, I fell in love and knew it was where I was supposed to be!

Papillon

Choose a college that gives you room to experiment with various majors should you change your mind during those four years. Become active in as many as extracurricular activities as you can handle and look into a major AND a minor. Your shelling out a couple grand for this school so you might as well get all the education you can.

VIRGINIA

Check out the traditions of the school. Visit the campus, and class rooms. If possible atend a sporting event at the school before enrolling. Once enrolled become involved in a sorority/fraternity. Enjoy al that ht experience has to offer; but do not loose focus of the purpose is toprepare yourself for the rest of your adult life.