Illinois State University Top Questions

As a high school senior, I would tell myself that real knowldge doesn't come from a book, but from the people around you. I was once told by a professor that elementary school was a social setting rather than an education setting because the students learn more from each other than they do from the material being taught; This idea still applies in college. I spent a lot of time working on homework instead of enjoying life because I felt I needed to work hard to succeed in college. The truth of the matter is that it's not about what the classes teach you; It's about the people you know. I spent my first two years in college with my head in a book and missed meeting many interesting people who are now doing interesting things. New knowledge comes from people; old knowledge is in books. Althoughg they create a good foundation for later discussion, the focus should be on the people, not the paper. I was lucky enough to meet some of these people during my last too years, but I could have met more had I known what I know now.

I'd say ...Dear Melissa please don't let things stress you so easily, now that you are a senior try to focus as hard as you can on preparation for college. Start new study habits, and along the way give yourself some alone time to relax or just be young! Educations the most important thing and in college there really isn't anyone to hold your hand. So now that you're still in high school, reach out to all your teachers and resources get as much help now as you can, learn to have good study habits, and when you're feeling stressed talk it out with someone because you're not alone in this journey and when you get to college you will realize life moving at a faster pace, so do well in high school, and once you begin college realize that you're smart and can do anything regardless of financial barriers, or no support from others, you WILL get far in life an be a college graduate. Enjoy your young life, but don't forget the things that really matter. Your education, so focus and be strong because you're already smart.

Whatever you want to do in life, go chase that dream. I am now returning to school to chase my dream, something I could have done the first time around if I knew what my options were. I did not have the proper guidance of where to go to get the education that I needed to become a nurse. I also did not have the support from my family or friends to pursue that dream. I would educate more parents in what it means to support your children as they prepare to become educated for what they hope is their dream career. Without the support, many students wander aimlessly through school, obtaining degrees in fields they never intend or end up in. So get some good advice, spend time researching the schools that specialize in your field of interest, and go there!

If I could talk to myself at 18, I would say not to rush it. At the time, I was being pressures by well-intentioned family who did not understand what I wanted in life, and I tried and failed at my first semester in college. I was depressed and chose to take time off and think about what I desired, instead of continuing to rush blindly ahead, with no particular goal in mind. Sampling many different things, it took me several years to decide my major -- Anthropology, which I loved before I even knew what it was called! But I am now in the program and loving every single class. I look forward to going to school each day, and I'm happier than I thought I could be at 18. Slow down and consider your options!

The only advice I can give is start looking at colleges ASAP!! I didn't want to admit that i was graduating so I avoided thinking about it as much as i could. I regret not looking into all the colleges that could be right for me.

I would tell my high school self to not worry about other peoples opinions because the only one that truely matters, is your own. I wish I could go back in time to teach my past self that the petty drama or issues that occured in high school are not going to matter or even be remembered in a year or two. I would say live life to its fullest and have fun, enjoy being young while you can because life only gets harder and more complicated as you age.

You have your whole life ahead of you. Have fun and enjoy this exciting experience, but make wise decisions. Take every opportunity to learn as much as you can, not just from your studies, but also from the diverse classmates, professors, co-workers, roommates that you will cross paths with on your education journey. Most likely, this will be the only time in your life that you can focus soley on your education. Take advantage of it! Challenge yourself! Make experiences that you will remember forever! Take initiative to go above and beyond in your curriculum! Go for it!

Illinois State has made me a well balanced person and teacher. The education course work completely prepared me for a lifetime of teaching. The practicum and student teacher experiences made me feel comforatble in the classroom before graduation. The professors were knowledgeable and friendly. They always put forth effort to make my experience better. I feel that I was on a campus of a perfect size. It felt like a community rather than a large city. The town is young and lended itself to the campus. There were many opportunities to make friends and meet people from various backgrounds. I was able to be invovled in campus committess and clubs. I enjoyed watching the sporting events of the Redbirds as well. Illinois State was a home away from home. It was the perfect place to spend four wonderful years.

Illinois State is one of the few universities in the United States that has my major: Deaf Education. I went to Illinois State Universtiy and met so many friends that have common personalities and interests with me! I never had that at home. All of the professors that I have had, including General Education course professors, have been very helpful and intuitive. They are always willing to help you when you ask for it. Overall, Illinois State has made me feel like I have a place here and that I have a voice. I am not just a student; I am an Illinois State Redbird and proud of it!

I have learned to be open to anything, try everything once, and don't underestimate the goodness of people. I think that living in a college town is an experience in itself, that you can never grow closer to people who are all experiencing the same things as you. People to share with you the same feelings, events, good times, and bad times with you are what you need in life and I think that is ONE valuable thing I've taken with me in my college experience.

I feel that now that I have adventured off to college , I was given a chance to find out how strong I am as a person on my own. It has been valuable to attend college because it has helped me pin point my weaknesses so I can build on them as well as my strengths.

Out of my college experience I have found a better understanding for the meaning of hard work. I also feel that I will be well prepared and will be able to get a good job after I graduate from Illinois State University. I am also grateful for all of the friends I have made and people I have met throughout my past two years. I have made lots of good connections and have had great learning experiences. I have a new outlook on the world and feel that I can accomplish anything I put my mind to.

I picked Illinois State University on a campus visit when I saw a bridge. That was my deciding factor that helped me choose Illinois State University for pursuing a higher education. Through my college experience I have gained motivation and confidence. Everyday I go to class, I am one day closer to achieving my goals. Going to a school like Illinois State University helps inspire me to keep going when I walk through campus and I look around and see the students who are working hard just like me to make something of themselves. At Illinois State University, I was able to see the world, I have some of the best friends for life, and I am really discovering who I am and what I want from my life. Through Illinois State I am learning to achieve my goals the right way, no shortcuts and keeping my integrity. I haven't reconsidered my decision to attend Illinois State University ever, and I am truly happy here. Once I graduate from Illinois State University, I am not afraid of what is going to happen because I know that with everything I learned from attending school here that I will be alright.

I just finished my 1st semester at a community college after being out of school for 15 years and I have met many new people who are looking to change careers just like me. I have also gain confidence and self esteem I finished with a 3.5 GPA my first semester when at times I was so scared I wouldn't make it. I can't wait for spring semester to start I'm eager to learn more and sharpen the skills I already have.

“I’m living in Brazil next year.”Those eight, simple syllables uttered from my vocal instructor inspired me; I wanted to experience another country, I wanted to learn about new subjects, I wanted to go places. Now, I did not end up in Brazil, and I do not know if I will ever visit Tokyo or see the Indian Ocean. I am, however, enrolled in college, and college is the potential launching pad to all dreams. I believe of all things college has offered, exposure to opportunities has been my greatest experience. Not only are there professional opportunities, but also the personal learning opportunities are incomparable. I can see the world from a new perspective—a perspective where my aspirations are linked to my determination to succeed.Without college, my dreams had strict limits. I can see now something I could not when my vocal instructor told me about Brazil: similar experiences are possible for me.

Since graduating from high school and starting my college education in August 2010, I soon came to realize how college-life allows you more independence and responsibility. You learn quickly how and when to register for classes, where your classes are held and getting up in time for classes. But I have learned how to manage my time wisely with my studies and enjoying the "college-life" in meeting new friends and participating in organizations. Upon my graduation from ISU I plan to continue my education by applying for medical school. My career goal is becoming a physician and with the expense of college and med school ahead of me, this scholarship will greatly help out.

My college experience has taught me how to take control of my life and to plan for my future. I have learned how to take responsibilty for myself through attending regular classes and working hard to earn a 3.8 GPA. Through the various classes I've taken I found that I would like to major in Journalism. This decision has provided me with goals to work toward through trying to successfully persue this career. I would like to reach out to others by providing insight into new topics and events through this career. Attending college brought me to self awareness and to self assertion through the achievements I have already made being a college student.

Going to college has been a really good experience for me. I have learned independence, I have taken valuable classes, and I have made many new friends.

From my college experience, I have gained confidence and a basic working knowledge of internet technologies. My attendance has been valuable in that I have become able to enter my chosen field in a job that has advancement opportunities, and the ability to make my voice be heard. That it should be heard. The future is no longer one dimensional for my familybecause I chose to attend college and make sure that my children have a college educated parent, thereby reducing the statistical probability for drug abuse, alcohol abuse, or physical abuse.

I have recieved more independence, responsibility, and I have also gotten to know and understand my self better. Every time I step foot on campus I feel like an adult and i have to handle my buisness as an adult. I also feel as though i have options as to what i want to do with my life and education, i dont feel smothered or like a child. college has been very valuable to attend bescause it is what gives you oppertunities in life. Especially with the economy the way it is, you have to have some good education to get a decent job and make enough money to take care of yourself. it is also valuable to me because there is so much you can learn for free (if you attend a community college) so why would you pass that oppertunity up. Attending college can open doors and windows that the world may need you to see or go through to help make a chance and to become a better person.