North Dakota State University-Main Campus Top Questions

If you are trying to get away from hicks and farm people, don't go to NDSU because the majority of students are from rural areas.

As a recent college graduate, I find myself looking back at college with extreme pride. I was not able to afford college, so I worked full time while taking out student loans. It took me 7 years to complete college, however, picking the right school had a lot to do with my success. I searched many colleges and found that the college I attended was concerned about my future success and well-being. Everyone, from professors to the janitor, helped me achieve my success by caring beyond their "job description" and making me the best person I could be. As for making the most of the college experience, that comes from within yourself. You need to be able to make choices and prioritize your academics along with taking time for yourself and others. I would make a schedule for homework and studying, but would also make a timeslot for checking out local movies, hanging out with friends and trying new things such as campus activites and volunteering. I learned a lot about myself during college by making myself well-rounded and involved in numerous activities. I miss it all so much that I am now in Graduate School!

There are several extremely important things to consider when selecting a college. While overall reputation or name recognition may be important to an individual, that won't be of benefit if the discipline that caters to their academic desires or abilities is not available. Students should search for a college that offers what they want academically and a faculty that is knowledgable and passionate about what they are teaching. If undecided on a course of study, look for a school that offers a broad range of courses, and is willing to work with the student via guidance counseling, strong advisorship and that has a willingness to keep track of student progress while providing assistance in finding a personally and academically rewarding match in terms of degree or certification. Additionally, keep in mind finances when selecting a school. There are enough challenges while in school that one should not have to worry that they may have to drop out due to financial complications. Prospective students should meet with the school's financial aid office to see what is available for them, and should never assume that one can only receive an excellent education at the most expensive of schools.

I would tell parents to make their kids really look. Many schools are over looked because of their location and where they are. Some can be superficial about where they go and want to follow the mainstream crowd. You might just find that the place you thought was aweful can be your dream school. Just applying and web searching is not enough. Parents, your kids need to get interactive and get out of the car and check out the school to make sure they like the feel of the campus. Internet pages can't tell you that. Schools don't show the whole school on their web sites.

I would advise incoming college students to look for the college that best fits your major of choice. Take your time in deciding. Also, along with choosing the school that has your major, don't choose it just because your friends are attending the same school, or they are going for the same major, choose it because it is truly something you are interested in and you can see yourself pursuing for the rest of your life.

It is hard process to find what you are exactly looking for. It is a personal opinion to how you want to live and learn. It is great time though and will not forget it.

Do campus visits so you can see what the college is really like

I would tell students to make the choice depending on what career they want to have. Go to a college that offers the best degree for that career area.

Give it everything you've got. As much as that has been said it is true. The amount that you put into school will determine how much you get out of it. Be willing to stay for the couple minutes after class to finish writing the notes. Be willing to play frisbee with strangers on campus. Be willing to say good morning to the instructor at 7 o'clock in the morning. Making new friends and learning new things is what makes school worth it. The relationships that develop during college are not just for four years but for a lifetime.