New York University Top Questions

What should every freshman at New York University know before they start?

Katharine

Do extensive research on the college. Try to meet with students who attend the school and try to talk to any professors in your interested field who are willing to talk to you! Visit the campus more than once and don't be afraid to ask questions!

Jocelyn

Think about what you and your children want out of life. It is a big mistake to only think about your career or near future. Sometimes spending more on an education means being the happiest you've ever been and having good opportunities for professions, even if it means a large debt. Never judge a college by hear say - actually visit and talk to normal students who are not being paid to promote it. In addition, look around- do not focus on what you are solely told but make sure that you see that they are as active and as diverse as they say they are. Furthermore, go with your gut- My family and I did even though it meant taking a huge financial leap of faith and I thank God (or the Universe) every day for letting me be st my University. Lastly, live life and remember that there is more to it than school and therefore take advantage of all social, cultural, professional, and spiritual opportunities that come your way. You never know- you might just end up doing something that you will remember for the rest of your life.

Emily

Try and figure out what you're interested in before spending a lot of money on college. I feel i made a mistake going straight to NYU and not knowing what I wanted to study. It makes much more sense to take a year off or go to a community college before throwing 40,000 a year in exchange for core classes you may have no interest in.

Crystal

College applications can be really stressful but any good school can fit most people. Anyone can find friends and competent professors at any school. Unless you have a very specific area of study or a strong desire for small classes then the school that fits your financial and location needs is the best choice. The best way to get a feel for a school is to visit and to talk to the students there. Even though every school is unique, colleges are more similar than different. At most schools there is a lot of partying that you can either avoid or embrace. What matters most is that you know what you want out of your college experience. If you want a lot of spirit, try a school with a football team. If you want quiet chose a smaller school in a less populated area. If you don't want to be too involved in school at all chose a big city where there's enough to do outside of your academic studies. Don't worry too much. You can always transer, many people do.

Elyse

Know your situation. If you cannot afford the college of your dreams, it's better to go somewhere that when you graduate, you won't be burdened with thousands of dollars in loans. That is not to say that you should choose a college on finances alone. Even if you are sure of your major, choose a college where a variety of interests can be explored. The next 2, 4, or 6 years of your education can greatly impact the rest of your life. Going far away from home is not always the best thing. One thing I wish I did was to spend 2 weeks at the college of my choosing. Some colleges offer a weekend or high school intensive program for prospective students to see if they'll really enjoy it there. This will give you a feel for the college and help you make a more informed choice.

Eric

The best way to figure out which college you would like to attend is to take the time to visit the school. Visiting the campuses is usually a good indicator of which environment you will enjoy being a part of, since you can actually see students carrying out their daily lives at each school. While there, talk to current students, asking them about the things that matter to you, whether they be faculty interaction, social life, of workload. Once you're in college, it will be crucial for you to keep all of the pressures in perspective. More will be required of you in college than you have ever experienced before. So, you will need to pursue a major you enjoy-- something that you love to engage. Even so, it remains vital that you not panic when your tasks compound. Just enjoy every minute of what you're doing.

Nick

I would advise parents and students going through the college search process to focus on what will make the student grow most as a person. There is a strong emphasis put on going to the most prestigious schools or to have the "college experience" seen in movies, but be open to the possibilities that exist. This is one of the most important decisions that a student can make in his or her life: affecting all that follows - friends, marriages, children, career - so understand that some institutions are expensive, but that it's an important investment. Parents often worry more about the academic side and don't consider the social and morale that is built at college. The student must choose a place where they believe they can socially thrive and be happy for several years. But everyone is different, and no one institution will be a good fit for everyone. Keep that in mind. And, at the end of the day, you want to leave college feeling as though it was worth your time (and money), so choose an institution that will help you specifically - be it a career center, advising center, academic program, faculty mentoring, or extra-curricular activity.

Carlina

If you know what you want to study, then first determine the setting that you would be most comfortable in (i.e. urban, rural). Then, find schools in those areas that offer your desired major or academics. Finally, decide what you want to experience during the 4 years and match it up to what the college offers (i.e. frats, sports, clubs, research). The most important factor in choosing the right college isn't its rankings or financial aid package. Since the college you choose is where you'll be spending your next four years, the most inportant factor is whether you'll fit in and be happy living there. The way to make most out of the college experience differs with each student since each student has different expectations. Taking the time to look through all of clubs, programs, sports, and activities that the college offers is crucial. Don't miss out due to ignorance! Experiencing college means involving yourself in college communities. Having fun in those college communities is the best way to make the most out of college. Just don't forget to study. Doing well academically will also add to your satisfaction.

Nick

Find somewhere somewhat close to home. It's expensive to travel. Find a part time job that you will like. Try aiming for paid internships if you can find a good one. Don't overdue the drinking. If you're gonna be in a relationship don't ever let it affect your classwork.

Jennifer

Look for a college that fits your personality because what you want to do highschool will change when you get to college.