Liberty University Top Questions

What should every freshman at Liberty University know before they start?

Gabriel

Assuming I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would emphasize the importance of knowing the field you are going to choose. Choosing a college career from the start that is in a field you love to work in, makes many things more efficient. In addition, the classes you will take will be much more interesting; as opposed to choosing an educational path which you will change later on because you found out the field was not a right fit.

Sarah

Hey there, former me. I bet you're all wrapped up in nostalgia; consuming yourself with thoughts about prom, yearbooks, graduation, and summer. While college is so close, I bet it feels pretty far away. Like, LU is literally 700 miles away. You can't even begin to fathom what's ahead of you in the next couple of months. However, I think you should know that this freshman year will contain the best times of your life. You're going to meet so many interesting people, develop deep friendships, and change A LOT as a person. Do you want to know the secret to having an amazing time? Don't be shy. Step out of your comfort zone and talk to people; some of your most rewarding friendship are going to be formed spontaneously. Don't be scared of your dreams! You'll change your major after your first semester, and have countless thoughts about changing it again. For the first time in a while, you'll truly enjoy learning. Education will change from something that you feel like you have to do, to something that you yearn for. You're going to love it.

Sandra

I would go up to my past self and tell her not to be afraid of leaving home and going off the college. I was terrified of leaving all my family, friends and the small town that I have lived in my whole life to go off to one of the largest colleges in the US. I would tell her to be brave and at peace because she would make friends that will love her and give her encouragment and turn out to be some of the closest friends she has every made. I would also tell her to apply for as many scholarships as she possibly can so she dosnt have to acquire so much debt and not have to deal with the continued stress of it. I would also advise her to put more money in savings to help last her through the year. Then last but not least, I would tell her to appreciate the family she has and let them know how much she loves them and know that she is very blessed to have them because I know now that life won't ever be the same as it was before.

tamara

Becoming a senior was the most exciting time it helped prepare me for colleges and graduation. If I could go back I would tell myself that your education is very important , the grades count towards scholarships. There are all kinds of scholarships that are for students with high GPA. Coming from a family that could not afford schools. Scholarships really help so you may pursue a career. The teachers that push are there to prepare you for the real world. The goofing off and being disrespectful, does not get you too far. Guidance counselors help prepare you for school so you may not be lost trying to find yourself when it comes to going to college. Essay and researches are different from high school. You have to be serious and responsible to be successful in college. Your GPA counts more than ever, you have to pass the classes because finincial aid depends on you academic performance. When it seems hard dont give up. There are resources out there to better prepare you, if you need tutoring dont be afraid to go for it. Look for jobs while you are in school, apply for interships so you may have a job.

Justin

As a high school senior I fell into the trap that many seniors do. I had the attitude of, “let me make my senior year the easiest!” Just weeks into my freshman year of college I quickly realized that I had made a huge mistake. By making my final year a breeze, I became lazy, which became something I had to battle for the bigger portion of the year. I began to fall behind, and found myself working twice as hard as I needed to. It became increasingly difficult to juggle my social, and academic life. If I could go back and tell myself one thing, it would be, “Do not get lazy! Prepare yourself because laziness is something almost impossible to overcome.” Simply doing the work as it comes, and trying your best can make your first year so much better.

kelsey

Hey Kelsey, you're in high school right now. You need to realize this because I now see the importance of both high school and college. I know you think that it is pointless, but it's not. You will come across so many people who have different beliefs and worldviews than you, and when you are able to relate to them on their level, you will make a stronger impact. Think about historians, scientists, musicians, people who are in the media, and many more. You can learn SO much in high school and especially college about various topics like these. Take advantage of that opportunity and the time that you have now in high school to learn all that you can. Try your hardest and don't just go through the motions, but really try to study and learn and get something out of the classes that you take. Good grades are important, but knowledge is just as important, if not more. Be excellent in all that you do because it will be worth it! Do not grow lazy or let your grades go, but continue pressing in.

Lauren

If I could go back in time and give advice to myself as a high school senior, I would have many things to say. First and foremost, I would tell myself to let my heart be my guide. Choosing a career based on practicality or salary might seem good at the time, but if you cannot endure the classes necessary for that degree, you probably won't enjoy the job. Second, I would tell myself to calm down. Not everything is as big of a deal as it seems to be. Third, I would tell myself to care more. The transition is not a piece of cake, so I would suggest starting to prepare for dorm life a little earlier than I did. Fourth, I would tell myself to talk to my roommates more before move in day. Turns out, they are great people. I could have had the privilege of their friendship a lot earlier. Lastly, I would tell myself to enjoy my last summer as a kid. Overall, life moves too fast to waste the seasons we are given. Savor every moment.

Tammy

I would have started sooner and not wasted so much time procrastenating. Take full advantage of all the wonderful things college has to offer and don't be afraid to go after what you want to do. Make new friends because some stick with you the rest of your life. Have no regrets, don't wish you had done something and don't be afraid to convey your thoughts. There is so much college has to offer and you have your whole life to take reap the benefits of that experience and pass it along to your children.

Destiny

I would suggest to all Seniors to look at taking college classes simultaneously, as it will give you a better understanding of the college atmosphere. Taking classes such as English 101, English 102, College Algebra, etc. will allow the time to focus on degree core subjects, along with grasping the expectations of college professors vs. high school teachers. I would also recommend to all Juniors to start the scholarship and college investigation process to allow them the opportunity to visit the campuses, talk with counselors, and find the right match for their academic success in their desired career field. I would also recommend to others and myself, if you are not sure to seriously look at a Junior College as it will give you that opportunity to build confidence, determine if college really is the right path, and reduce overall expenses. All Seniors need to review and study for the SAT testing as the individual scores are as important as the overall score when seeking academic scholarships. Finally, I would tell anyone who asks never give up on your dreams.

Devin

Smile more kiddo, life isn't so bad...just remember to keep your head high no matter the circumstances. Make sure to be friendly even as those who aren't are all around. Most of everything about college you already know, but don't forget to make a schedule for yourself or perhaps a planner of sorts so you don't forget your assignments. Try to be a little more organized so you don't become overwhelmed and flustered with the work ahead of you, keep pushing and happiness is just an arms length away. Fury may feel good, but try to see that it's counterproductive and sidetracks what you're doing. Stay focused and press on soldier, victory is in sight but the fight isn't over, nor has the darkest hour passed. Know you can do it, own it, and never doubt yourself.