DePaul University Top Questions

I would tell mtyself to not procrastinate , because that will affect me much. I wouls also think about the difference of college life to high school life, teh change is grandiose and to be prepared for anything. I wouls also mention that to give my all because this is my dream and I am going to make it come true!

My father was killed when I was twelve. My mother enrolled me in a vocational school, so I would be able to develop the skills to work in business. In my senior year in high school, I worked part-time and went to school part-time. My mothers concern was for me to find a job to support myself that offered medical insurance. Going to college was only a dream - not a reality or option. If I could go back in time, I would have encouraged myself to apply for colleges and seek the help of my high school counselors to apply for scholarships. It is easier to go to college while you are young. The challenges of an adult non-traditional student is not easy. You have to balance school, work and home life. The transition is not difficult from high school to college. Just remember to focus on your studies and you'll do just fine.

Allow yourself to succeed. Enjoy every accomplishment while in school. Get to know your professors, they can be the biggest help and asking lots of questions will let them know you want to succeed. Attend every class, not only will it make studying for midterms/finals easier but you're paying for them even if you don't go! Tuition is expensive at DePaul, make the most of your money and get good grades. Study alot and take classes you'll enjoy! It'll make the studying easier and you'll get excellent grades! Take advantage of the tutors available, they're not only free but very helpful if your professor isn't in office hours. These are supposed to be the best years of your life, don't be shy, involve yourself in every activity possible and meet lots of people. All of the people you meet could be a potential connection that will land you a job. Most importantly, be yourself.

Go to a community college and take advantage of the writing labs. The professors at the city colleges are helpful and very understanding, and to mention very dedicated to all their students.

Don't listen to the high school academic advisor. Though, I knew this when I was a HS Senior too. No one knows what college you belong in more than yourself. I chose DePaul because it is close to home (a 5 hour drive to St. Louis, MO) and is a big city with a lot of jobs. When I was a Senior, my first choice was Loyola Chicago, but when I visited DePaul, I knew I belonged here before the campus tour even began.

My college experience over the last year-and-a-half has been rather unforgiving to those who are unsure of their life path. I applied late to the school of music and, despite my first chair audition scores, recieved no financial aid as punishment for my delay. This has caused a lot stress for myself and my parents as we navigate through FAFSA and the loan process. Thus, really make a wise use of your high school years to discover what you want to do. More importantly, do yourself a favor and really look for a school that speaks to you. Don't be afraid to go somewhere far your best friend. College is not the end of your youth, it is a transition into the real world. So prepare for it. Visit a variety of schools. Big schools, small schools, state, and private. Eat in their cafeterias (it'll be your new diet for the next four years, you know). Talk to the professors, talk to students, and don't be afraid to ask questions. You wont offend the institution, but you will get a much better idea if that school is right for you or not. Good luck!

I would have listened to my teachers and applied to DePaul earlier. I then would have withdrawl all other applications so I could have no doubts what so ever

I would remind myself how fun and fufiling it is to be active on campus. I went into college worried that I would have no time for extracurriculars, so I was hesitant to join any student organizations. But half way through my freshman year, I felt that something was missing and that is when I began to get more involved on campus. I loved it! I became an officer in the DePaul Music Business Organization, joined University Ministry to serve the community and travel to other communities to serve, and joined the Liturgical Chior. I am actually doing what I want in college and still building on my career and getting an education.

Get involved your freshman year of college, join social clubs and particiapte in intramurals. Academics are different in college than in high school it requires more out of class effort and constant studying. Have the time of your life, but keep school your number one.

Don't buy books from the bookstore!!!! Biggest mistake you can make. Find a way to either trade books with fellow classmates or friends. I usually wait till the first week to feel out the teacher and see what they say about the books. If you buy books too early, sometimes they will tell you you don't need one or two of them and now your stuck because in general you can't return them. Half.com became a friend of mine saving hundreds of dollars each trimester. College books are expensive and teachers require 5 or even more books for a single class. College students are usually strapped for cash and teachers require books that are rarely used to their full potential. The transistion to college life was quite easy and I officially finished college a few hours before I filled out this survey. Time flies, embrace the experience.