Florida State University Top Questions

What should every freshman at Florida State University know before they start?

Jennifer

My best advice for incoming college freshmen is to visit each college they are considering. The feel on the campus is one of the most important things to consider. They can see if they atmosphere is friendly, how large the campus is, and get a general feel for what life would be like if they were to attend that school. I'd also encourage them to look at each school's academic programs and see how they fit with the student's goals and desired career. If a student has an option to attend a school with a great program in their area of interest, that should weigh heavily on their decision. The student should also explore all financial aid opportunities, as there are many options out there to take advantage of. Lastly, once the student has chosen a college to attend, they should become as involved as possible on campus and in campus organizations. This is the best way to get the most out of any college experience.

Mike

I think parents and their kids (students) should visit the campus and city of the school they plan on attending before enrolling upon getting accepted to that university. Upon enrolling, I think it is highly important to keep an open mind to others' ideas and be willing to get out and socialize with new people. Live it up!

Melanie

There are so many things that students need to know about picking and going off to college, but most of it is only taught through experience. Choose the place where you believe you will flourish, but most importantly a place that provides you with adequate classes for your major. In all honesty, the most important things that are going to get students through their college experience is hard work and belief. College can be a shock to some when students realize how much work it really is, but if you truely try your hardest and seek help when needed, you will be successful. Get involved in at least one on campus activity that you can relate to and spend your time with. I promise you will meet people who's interests you can relate to, and not to mention you may even meet a few friends! Hard work is a must, but good friends are going to be there to help you through the hard times. Establish the building blocks and grow from there. These are the most important four years of your life, you will meet life long friends and decide what's ahead for the future! Good luck!

Maria

The primary advice I would give parents/ students is to keep focus on finding the right school for their career. Also, to visit the prospective university, in order to be 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} sure that the student will feel comfortable and in place. Do not go based on your favorite team or your parent's alma mater, but rather a place that will make you happy. Freshman year is crucial, while learning to find yourself and enjoying your time away from home, make sure to remain focused on your goals... If not, more obstacles will appear on the road, or worst-case: they may be taken. Never settle for less, always strive for more, because ultimately this is what will decide your future. Have fun, stay true to yourself, and you will be fine.

michael

GET INVOLED!

Lauren

When trying to find the perfect college for you or your child, make sure to first visit the school. It is important to get a tour and get a feel for what the campus is like and your surroundings. Also, try to talk to people that have been to the school or attended to get their opinion of their experience. Every college is so different from each other so it is important to see what is unique about your future school. Also, look into what the school has to offer education wise and if it offers the right majors that you would be interested in graduating with, in case you change your mind from the current major you may have. Try to learn about what you can become involved with and try to meet as many people as you can before or at the beginning of your college experience to become immediately comfortable with college.

Abigail

For me, the best advice that someone gave me was to go where I truly felt I belonged. Visiting campuses is a very important way to find this. Just from walking around Florida State I found a sense of belonging and excitement, something I had not found anywhere else. I would tell a prospective college student to visit as many colleges as they can, and when they find the right one, they will innately know. Once you are there, making the most of your college experience is not hard at all! Take random classes like Astronomy, or Italian, and walk up to complete strangers and introduce yourself. This way, you will learn the most about yourself and meet some amazing people in the process. Just when you are walking around your college, remember that the time you spend there is yours to make as brilliant, productive and fun as possible!

Rachael

College should be one of the best times of your LIFE. EVER. It is the true transition from childhood to adulthood. If you don't make the best of your college experience, you will regret it. And who likes that feeling of wishing you could go back in time and do it right the first time? I didn't think so. Before you even apply to one during your high school years, go to the Universities you are considering and explore them. If you don't know where to start or where to go, your high school guidance counselor is your new best friend. Choose your school wisely- make sure they have the major you want, reasonable prices, activities you're interested in, acceptable housing, availability of financial aid you may need, etc. Pay attention to the details, because every school is unique. It should have your name all over it! Make sure you and your parents save money well in advance and apply early. Study, play intramural sports, date, go to clubs, party, work, etc! College is not only about learning what you need for your career, it's about learning who YOU are.

Travis

go where you are most comfortable

Krysta

Take advantage of the resources available, such as tutoring, career advising, and the advisors. Also, get involved in activities and organizations that interest you or help further your career goals.