Eastern Nazarene College Top Questions

I would have told myself to read ALOT more.

Before I selected a school, I made sure to pray about where God wanted me to go. After six months I really felt God was calling me to attend Eastern Nazarene College. Since then, I have realized why. Now I am working as a youth director in a local church, and getting an amazing education to help me further in my career. It is important not to stress over where you are going to attend college. Never be afraid to try something new. Maybe go to a school far from home, or study abroad. If you do not end up liking your first choice school you can always transfer to another school. After a semester or two you may have a better understanding at what you want from a college. Also, you will always be able to take your first experience with you where ever you go. Relax, have fun, and do not be afraid to follow the plans God has for you.

I would say that to find the right college, staying home and researching online alone will not help. Going out and visiting the college, experiencing life on campus and seeing the buildings, give you a better front row seat. Talking to the financial aid and admissions people help to get to know them also. Choose a college based on things that intrest you, whether class size, campus, surroundings. Also, never choose one that doesnt offer what you need or your major. The college that gets into your heart is usually the one that is right for you. Make friends, and get to know people. Be out there, and don't pray TOO much attention to tuition first. Its always schoo first, then seeing if financial aid/scholarships can help... Try not to base soley on costs only. If cost is a problem then yes. All in all choose a college that fits you perfectly, and where you fit it perfectly also.

Make sure you visit the school and know what the school is from other students and not just the admissions department.

Look at all the factors. Find a college that's right for where the student is at (academically, maturity, personality, interests, etc.). Be realistic about the price (loans, cost of living, tuition and fees, what type of financial burden they will be under after graduation, and job ability in their field post graduation). Let the student follow their desires, passion, talents in a way that is marketable in the job field. Find a school that helps them mature as a person and future employee, as well as helping them grow academically. See what resources the college offers for preparing them for the workforce, and what possible interships ar offered as well.

Find a school that cares about you and has your well beign at heart. This is where you'll find the best friends and get the best education!

Maintain balance. Remember why you're there - to learn, and that happens inside and outside of the classroom. Read all the books and do all the work because you'll accomplish a lot, yet remember to get out there too. Do the internships and the research with your professors, study abroad for sure, and participate in those creative projects that require students from all different majors if time allows you to do so. With this, cultivate your relationships because they will last you a life time. Build them with students that are different from you, build them with your professors and with alumni and with any recruiter that comes your way. Participate in clubs. Remember to exercise :-) Step out of your comfort zone. In many ways in college, a shrunken version of the world is at your feet, you have peopel from all over the world learning about every field of study out there. It's one of the most stimulating places to be for your mind, body and spirit. Don't be afraid to dive in and experience.

Always talk to the upper classman students about their school experiences and about their general attitude toward the school. Most will give simple straightfoward answers to your inquiries that you can not get from those who are recruiting. Also, I would try and speak to/ get acquainted with one or more persons closely connected with the field of study you are considering. Try to find a school that you feel not just comfortable with but really actually at home in don't forget this place will be your home and not just a place of study. You need to feel welcome and at home. When in the cafeteria situation, compare the food to your homecooking, not cafeteria food, this food is all you will get for the next four years...basically.

Ask yourself one question: How can I live life with no regrets? Then try your best to do it.

Don't be limited by location. Look at schools that really have what you're interested in. Don't be afraid to transfer if you don't love the college you chose to attend. Be flexible, be outgoing, and join organizations to get to know people who have similar interests. You make your college years. Don't waste them - they're an awesome time to explore new opportunities, find yourself, and make wonderful friends.