Spring Arbor University Top Questions

Going back to high school my greatest piece of advice would be to stay close to God, work hard, and to not worry. For me, college seemed like a scary place full of extreme stress and pressure to do well. Although there are days and even weeks where that is true, the task can be done, and it is worth the effort. It is important to strive for excellence in whatever you do. Do your best and trust in God. College is more than just work and tests, but also a great time to build lasting friendships and to have fun. Along with working hard, don't be afraid to fail. Don't be afraid to fail in school, in your relationships, or in your job. You can't succeed unless you are willing to take a chance. Remember God will never call you to do something he has not already given you the strength to do. The hard times have actually been the times I have learned the most. Nothing is wasted so go forward with confidence.

If I were able to go back in time and advice myself I would tell myself not to be so hard on myself. The first semester isn't easy. You have to get used to the course load. I would make sure that you are organized and know what you want to do to avoid paying for classes you don't need. After awhile you will realize that college isn't so awful. You will begin to make new friends and wonderful professors who will help you along your college journey. Rely on on these people and your advisor to make sure you are on the right track. It is these people who can give you wonderful opprotunities that will advance your career. Always remember to keep in mind why you are going to college for because in difficult times you may need some encouraging words. Always remember there is light at the end of the tunnel even if you can't see it. Strive to do your best because that is all we can do. Keep close those who care for you because you will need there support in good times and in difficult times.

It is exciting to go to a new place where almost no one knows who you are and what you have done in your life. People do not judge you on your past, but rather how you present yourself now. College is not like high school; expect the classes to be harder, the teachers to expect more, and the fellow students to be as scared as you are. Your life is different in college. There is no one to remind you to go to class and the professors will not care if you show up or not. It is up to you to take care of yourself, to get enough sleep, to exercise, to study and do your homework. As important as it is to do well in classes, don't forget to put yourself out there to meet people. There are community areas to go to and meet people: hang out there. Be friendly and start conversations with people you don't know. Make friends with people in your classes, especially the classes in your major. Do things you haven't done before and don't be afraid to experience life outside of what you have always known.

I would tell myself to pick a college that is small and is not focused on partying. The best decision that I ever made was coming to a college that allowed me to be myself without the distraction of alcohol or drugs. I have learned so much about myself while maintaining a good grasp on my academic career. I would tell myself to be open to all types of people and views even if you do not agree. Learning from others is one of the greatest types of learning we can have. I would tell myself to pick a career that I love. Pick a major that has to do with something you love to do in your everyday life. I made the mistake of thinking of money and not thinking of my passion. So, I would tell myself to pick a small school with no alcohol use, be open minded to the people you meet, and to pick a major that involves my passion or dream in life.

Erin, the first thing you need to do is to find something to motivate yourself. Mom and Dad will not always be with you to get on your case about getting your work done. Next, you need to make goals for what you want out of high school and college. Set your sights high and be specific. You know you can achieve so much! Tell people your goals also! Friends, teachers, and especially parents are perfect people to keep you accountable and set on the right track to reach your goals. Without someone to keep you accountable, it's easier to slack off and lower your expectations for yourself. The last piece of advice I can give is to study because you want to learn, not just to get through the class. Do all the work assigned by your teachers but take the time to go above and beyond that. Learn how to study now, because if you have poor study skills in college, you will struggle in your classes. The most important thing you can do is to take your education seriously, because without it, you will have a hard time achieving your goals.

I would strongly encourage myself to go to a public university and live on campus, for two reasons. First I feel like I missed out on the college experience by sticking around home. Second it would have been much cheaper to attend a public college versus a private college.

I graduated with 36 in my class, so going to a small public school there was not much offered for a high education. I would tell myself to take part in as many English classes and general required classes as I could. That way when I got to college the process of studying, interaction with others, and some of the same fields of study would be familiar and easier to take on. Also I would tell myself to be very involved with the community. I?m doing well in college with helping those in need and serving with the Social Work Association, however the more serving at a younger age I believe now gives you better insight on how our communities need people.

Matt, "you can do all things through Christ who stengthens you!" Never look down upon yourself; God loves you and has great plans for you. Do not hate those who hurt you and make fun of you; forgive them. Forgive Mom. Hatred is decay in your bones, it will enslave you. Never quit, never give up; persevere and endure. Always do what is right, even if people hate you for it. Do not be afraid to love, it is the greatest tool you have. Learn, read, observe and study; your way out is through wisdom and knowledge. Take heed to instruction, correction and discipline. Listen! "Be slow to speak but quick to listen." You have great listening Matt, use it to futher your growth and ministry to others. Do not criticize, complain or condemn! Be thankful, patient, kind, humble and gentle! Remember family! Keep promises! Smile! Put others first! Love and trust in God! Love your enemies! Test everything, keep the good! Matt, "people." Help and encourage people! Love others and your pain will not be in vein. BE the difference Matt. One person can change the world, in fact, that is the only way it's ever been done.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would say stop, look and listen. Stop to take the time and research your career choices and see what it has to offer you. Make sure this is something you are passionate about. If you love what you do, you will give it your best. Look at the bigger picture of what studying, being disciplined, committed and the ability to manage your time can offer you. Listen to others who have your best interest at heart. I would say that in order to be a success at school, I need to get committed and discipline myself. I would surround myself with a positive support system.

Hey! How's life? Excited for prom? I knew you would be, but do yourself a favor and bring flats! You'll need them! But down to the reason I'm here. So you've been thinking about college right? Well, I have a few Do's and Don'ts to share with you so that your first year goes smoothly! The school you're thinking of going to is pretty awesome, if I say so myself. But DON'T try to become popular! Popularity doesn't exist in this school, so all you'll be doing is wasting your time. DO try to become friends with people you know you're going to see multiple times. Friends last forever at SAU. DON'T procrastinate, I know it's your haven, but when you get to SAU and you procrastinate in everything, you will not pass! You will flunk and have to retake your course which will just add more years before graduation. DO complete your assignments at least a week before they're due, believe me, you'll have so much time. DON'T exchange your social life for homework! You'll regret it in the end! Good Luck!