Iowa State University Top Questions

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

Chanel

I would tell myself to find an adult who can explain to me how I can apply for scholarships that can help me pay for school and than help me with other appliances that I would need persomnally. I wish I knew about scholarships back in high school than I know now. Honestly I am happy I know about scholarships now. I am qualified for a majority of scholarships. I am left-handed, I write poetry and I love singing.

Natalie

If I could go back in time to talk to myself as a senior in high school I would tell myself to study more for tests and work harder in my classes. In high school, sports and my friends were the two most important things in my life, and I now know that school work should of came before those things. My GPA in high school was 3.42, I know that this isn't an awful GPA but I also know that this number was without me even trying. I wish that I would of put in more effort and time into my school work to refect what I really could of accomplished. I would also tell myself to get a job, I went to school with no money for my classes and started off in alot of debt with no end in sight. I plan to go to grad school after I get my degree and my school loans are going to be out of control. But I know that in the end the loans will be worth it because I am chasing my dreams to become the veterinarian that I have always wanted to be. Thank You.

Paige

If I could go back to talk to myself in high school the number one thing that I would tell myself is to not be scared. College is intimidating but it is not as scary as people make it seem. The largest difference is that in college you are responsible for yourself. You have to take control and make sure you complete your work on time and efficiently. Secondly, I would tell myself, as a high school student, would be to be ready for change. There are many things in college that are different from high school and you have to be open to welcoming that change into your life. College is not high school but it is deffinatly an experience you'll live for in the end.

Milagros

Like many people that succumb to the pressure of life it took a bit longer than usual for me. The combination of work life with school life became overwhelming. After a few years I found a balance and pursued my true passion in the arts. If I would be able to speak to my senior self in high school I would explain that I should get a part time not full time job, major in what I’m passionate about, and schedule time properly. Thus the transition of high school to college would not take as long. Not to mention how simpler it would be to take care of my mother without worrying about having enough time for my education.

Elizabeth

I would tell myself to find more time to study for all my test and assignments. The more time you study, the better grade you will get. Also look for scholarships before you leave high school because there are a lot of scholarships that are just for high school students. Also when you get to college focus more on the important things like basketball and school than the parties that are going on. Trust me it will pay off at the end.

Taylor

Take the time to join clubs and activities while you're in high school. You don't realize how much more time you have in high school than you'll ever have in college. Make the most of the time and resources that you're given and do everthing you've ever wanted to do now, before you leave for college. Once you're in college you won't have the time or energy to do things like sports or leading clubs or volunteering so make sure to do those things while you have the chance. Also, make sure to appreciate your family and savor your time with them. College doesn't have that same homey feeling that your house does and, though you might not get homesick, you'll definitely regret not taking in the love of comfort of living at home.

Lauren

As a student at Iowa State University, finding a community is the most important key to enjoying time at school. Attending a school with 30,000 students is intimidating to say the least, however, I have been able to succeed by involving myself in different organizations and finding a strong community that I feel at home in. Three main communities that I have joined have made my time at Iowa State the most enjoyable experience and created a love for my school. The following communities I have found myself in are my the sorority of Alpha Chi Omega, the Iowa State Ski and Snowboard Race Team, and employment at Iowa State Outdoor Recreation Services. These three activities have led me to become a better leader, more involved with the community around Iowa State, and given me drive to do better in school.

Jonathan

The advice I would give myself is to work hard in every class and try to maintain a high GPA throughout college. I would tell myself to get more involved with clubs and associations and network as much as possible. I would tell myself that the classes ahead are going to be very tough and that I should seek help and advice from others. That I should not get confident and think that I can do it on my own. I would tell myself that there will be times were I will have to sacrifice some of my personal free time so I can dedicate it to my studies. I would tell myself that if I work hard I will be able to have fun later and that I will feel more accomplished by keeping up my grades. I would tell myself to not get lazy and to keep working even when I think I am ahead. Finally, I would tell myself that all the hardwork that I am putting into school right now will pay off in the near future and that the feeling of accomplishing something so great will stay with me forever.

Robert

I would let myself know that there isn't any time to mess around. I need to get myself focused because college is nothing like high school and in order to graduate from college there is no time to slack off. Other than getting myself focused and prepared there isn't really anything else I would go back and tell myself.

Valarie

Get to know your professors. It may seem kind of awkward, but it makes a huge difference. I go to a large university and a lot of my classes are large lecture halls, so it takes effort to communicate with professors. Visiting your professor during their office hours and not being afraid to email them will make you more comfortable with them and when they see you making an effort they will be more willing to help you. Sitting in the first few rows and participating in class is another tip that I would give. It’s much easier to pay attention in class and retain information when you’re actively engaged and a lot of the information is given during lectures that you may not be able to find in your books. Going to class is crucial to your learning. Also, prioritize! I am very social and involved in activities but school should be first priority and that is why I am in college in the first place.