The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga Top Questions

What should every freshman at The University of Tennessee-Chattanooga know before they start?

Elise

I would suggest that the students really look around and consider more than one option. It is important for the school to feel right otherwise you can spend time depressed and perform poorly as a result. I would suggest leaving as soon as possible if the first college is not right because the longer you wait the harder it is for credits to transfer and the more time you waste on being unhappy. I would suggest that parents really listen to what their children have to say and at the same time use their knowledge from life experience to help guide their children in making the right decision.

Dominique

Students: Go where you are comfortable. If you find a place where you can see yourself fit in just apply. Don't let your family/friends pressure you in to going to a certain type of school. In the end you might regret it, because you are following someone esle's dream and not yours. Listen to the advice that is giving to you. Listening doesn't mean you have to do exactly that but do take under consideration when making your decision. Try not to get frustrated or overwhelmed with the small details, please know thati t will all work out. Parents: Trust your students. Please don't try to force anything upon them. Just try to guide and give advice in the right direction. Please be totally honest with your student about any they ask. Do not do everything for them when applying to college. If you start helping too much in the beginning they will continue to need you throughout school. College is the perfect time for your student to grown up and be responible for themselves.

Tashina

Advice I will give students about finding the right college and making the most of the college experience, is to make sure they are choosing the college that they want to attend, and that they know what they want out of the college life. They should know that college is not fun unless they make it fun. They also should not chose college based on the location or how much parties there are, they should chose college based on what type of education is being offered.

Bernesha

My advice to student preparing to choose the right college is think about what is important to you before you decide which college to attend. If you have the opportunity stop by the college during a non visitation time in order to get a true essence of the school. Talk to professors and upper-classmen in order to get the best advice about the quality of the school. Also, talk to a student who isn't employed by the school, because they're trained to promote the school. Remember the school you choose effects the people you meet and opportunities you will have in the future. My advice to parents is trust that you have taught your child well and allow them to choose the school they want. Guide them if they ask for help but do not make the decision for them. If you force your child to go to a school that they are not sucessful or happy with, they will end up resenting you. If your child is searching for colleges, you probably have taught them well.

Bonnie

Students, don't skip class and go to bed early!

Kristen

My advice for finding the right college and making the most of college experiences is different for parents and students. I know that often times parents are funding their children's education and they feel like the final decision is left up to them. My advice to parents is to truly listen to your child's wants and needs to choose a college that is right for them, regardless if it is your alma mater. My advice to students in finding the right college and making the most of their college experience is to visit colleges that interest them. Ask to sit in on classes. Choose the school that you feel most comfortable. Do not let the school choose you.

Victoria

First of all, don't let your parents choose the college for you. It is always good to let them have their own opinion, but make sure you have the last word. I had a huge fight with my mother about my college. They felt that Chattanooga wasn't far away from home. They wanted me to "go farther and meet new people and see new things." Now, they see that I love my school and that it isn't so bad after all. They love being able to have me home whenever I want to come. Secondly, when you finally get into the whole college experience make sure that you put your studies first. It's ok to have fun but remember that your education comes first. Last but not least, keep your parents informed about your college life. Trust me, you will need all the help, love, and support you can get. ;-)

Monika

Know your own interests before selecting a college, get involved in at least one organization, and just be helpful.

Crystal

I believe that students and parent should visit as manu colleges as possible just to be sure that the campus is of their best interest. Parent should check out the financial aid deparment and students should look closely at on campus housing. Over all a student should weight their option from different universities and pick the one they feel will make them the happiest and allow them to focus on their work and stil have fun.

Andrew

See the campus, check the academic programs, talk to students