St Catherine University Top Questions

What should every freshman at St Catherine University know before they start?

Karly

Check out a lot of different types of colleges or universities, make sure they have lots of different majors in the area you want to go into. If you don't know what you want to do, take different types of classes to determine what you like to do. Get to know a lot of different types of people, have fun and study hard!

Jennifer

Find a college that makes sense for you. Pick your school realistically based somewhat on income and career expectations. For example, don't waste the money going to an expensive private school for a degree in art unless you intend to be a college professor. That said, don't over-limit yourself by price. If you fall in love with a campus find creative ways to make it work. Don't feel trapped in a school if you find it is not a fit; I spent my freshman year miserable at a school where I couldn't find any social activities other than getting drunk nightly. It's perfectly ok to change your mind so you can truly enjoy your college experience. I can't emphasize enough the importance of picking a school that truly fits you; find somewhere you will be happy and not just bidding your time until graduation. Select a school where you can be yourself, be at peace, and enjoy the journey!

Adara

I learned that its not about the prestige of the school, but the atmosphere that you are most comfortable in. My first choice, and the school I initially attended had one of the best schools of music in the south, bt I soon learned that I was not happy at the school. WHen I transfered home to the midwest and attended the school in my hometown, which is not known for its music programs, I loved the environment, the students, and the faculty. It is more important to attend a school whose environment encourages a healthy lifestyle and learning, than the school with all the prestige.

Tinuviel

Really pay attention to how much things cost. Going to a smaller, private college can be a great experience but make sure you understand just how much you will need to take out in loans to make that experience happen and really weigh whether or not that amount is worth it.

Amanda

No matter what take your generals at a community college. Live on campus at least for one year to get the whole experience. Involve yourself in school activities, this helps you get to know people around your campus. Look at school as a community more than somewhere you have to be. -I attend The College of St. Catherine in Minneapolis, its different than the main campus in St. Paul.

Barbara

Find a college that fits your style and budget. Visit the school and talk to people who go there and have graduated from the school. Do research on placement after graduation and make sure they can give you the financial aid that you need.

Karen

Always visit the campus before you make a concrete decision: you'll be going to that school for a significant amount of time and you don't want to be on a campus that doesn't feel like home to you!

Jennifer

The first thing a person should do is think of what you want out of your college experience and what area you intend to study. Then, always tour the campus and meet the department you will spend the most time in. If the school offers prospective students the ability to sit in on a class, do it. Each school is slightly different, so knowing what will get you to your intended goal is very important. You also do not need to know exactly what you want, and don't try to do too much socially your first year. Getting the hang of your class workload will help you understand how you should set up your time. And most importantly, enjoy your experience. You'll be attending college for at the least four years, you might as well have some fun while you are there.

Brittany

If you know what you want to do when you get older I would advise you to look into a school with a good program for your field. Also, college visits are always a good thing so you can get a feel for what and where you are about to spend the next couple years of your life. Also, if you don't know what you want to do I would look into many colleges and narrow it down by what you like and don't like about the school, including finacial situations.

Julia

Definitely come on a tour of the campus, sit in on a class and do an overnight with a student of the college or university. Also, the main recommendation i could make, is KNOW what major you would be interested before deciding on a college. When colleges tell you to take generals for 2 years and then pick a major Junior year, its too late and you'll fall behind and do a "7 year plan" for your 4 year undergrad degree. Do some research on what major would interest you best, then find a college that offers that specific major. Trasferring is never easy, and your credits may not transfer so you'll lose time and your well earned money. Also try to study abroad and learn a new culture or language, you'll be glad you did. Also be outgoing! College IS the best time of your life so enjoy it, meet new people and try new things!