Northern Kentucky University Top Questions

What should every freshman at Northern Kentucky University know before they start?

James

For a very long time I knew I was going to work in the medical field. At the early age of 10. At that point i didn’t know what position I was going to pursue in the medical field. Some want to pursue working as a doctor or surgeon, I wanted to be a Regisetered nurse. Or a technician, well the technician I pursued or over 23 years now. And I love every minute of it.. and I take a lot of pride in my work.

Emily

If I could go back in time and tell myself about college what would I say? Well to start off I would say that it's not as hard as everybody says. It's a lot more freedom then when your living at home; which is nice:) Even though it's not as much homework it's for sure a lot more studying. You need to be prepared to meet a lot more new people. So being open minded to everybody helps you make the friends you need:) In conclusion I would tell myself not to worry I can do it!

Sarah

I would tell myself that its not that hard, that I can do whatever I put my mind to. College is a great chapter in your life, and I will succeed to my fullest and make my dreams come true.

Andrew

Knowing what I know now, I would definitely have approached transitioning to college differently. Quite frankly, I did not take the process as seriously as I needed to. I ended up missing dates for certain things and so I missed out on important opportunities to gain the financial need that I need. I am in a tough situation. My parents make enough to where we are many times over what is considered in need of federal or state aid. My parents are also not in a position to where they could easily take care of the costs associated with tution and other things. Therefore this huge gap exists that must be filled with loans, scholarships, grants, and anything else I can find to help me. The situation I face now is the same one I faced as a High School Senior. In short, I would have told myself to shape up and concentrate on the future.

Abigail

If I were able to go back in time, I would tell myself to not stress out about where I am going to go because I will end up where I'm meant to be. I would also tell myself to go to class everyday, no matter how bad I do not want to that day and to spend at least three hours a day in the library. I believe I am truly meant to be here and this is where i will succeed and be the best I can be.

Megan

I would tell myself to prepare for alot of studying. When I was a senior in high school I had no idea that I would take at least three exams in every one of my classes a semester. Not only did I know about the exams but I also didn't no how vital they were to pass and how much they would affect my grade. I would also tell myself to get ready for the best time of my life. I love college and everything that comes with it. I always have a lot of homework and studying to do and sometimes I just want to give up because I get so stressed out. Then a good grade on an exam comes along and makes all the stress worth it. College is so different from high school because this is what truly makes the rest of your life and thats how I see every exam and class I take. Passing a class, to me is just one step closer to the future I have planned for myself as a pharmacist.

Brittany

I would have taught myself how to study more than what i did in college. I did take a class that taught me how to study efficiently but i wish i would have known that classes would be hard

Lauren

Dear High School Self- I know it seems like your social anxiety will eat you alive right now, and you can't imagine starting something as extreme as college. But I just want you to know that college is right for you. Being able to pick your classes (and even sometimes your professors), you will feel less stressed and more excited about going to school. Just remember that knowing you have anxiety and doing what you can to combat that now really IS going to help. You'll give speeches (in front of a class, I know! Shocking!) and you'll talk to professors and fellow classmates with much more ease. It's hard to imagine now, but the time will come when it won't seem so hard to be a student. College isn't always easy but it's a new experience with a wider variety of people. You'll find your nice soon enough. Try worrying a little less, and having a bit more fun. Best of luck, Your Older (and I Hope Wiser) Self

Suzanne

If I could talk to myself as a highschool senior I would tell myself to take advantage of every opportunity, because you never know what doors it can open. I would tell myself that its ok to fail and that the only real failure is not trying at all. Getting involved in extracurriculars and getting to know people is important and fun, but there you still have to be disciplined and know when you should be focusing on your schoolwork. Pursue your interests, don't give up hobbies or activities just because its not a college related event. Finally, I would tell my younger self not to sweat the small stuff, as you embarck on this new and exciting journey.

Ellen

Don't treat college like high school. Just because you can be more independent doesn't mean you should skip class because you think it's okay. Attending class is a very importent factor for freshman, it counts toward your grade. Eat breakfast, wake up at a resonable time, and get to class early.