University of Georgia Top Questions

What should every freshman at University of Georgia know before they start?

Adam

Do not settle for the first college that you visit, but research as many colleges as you can. Also, do not agree to to to a college if you have not visited the campus to see what the atmosphere is like. College is more than just going to school, its an experience.

Whitney

Some times it is not the first choice that is always the best choice. I for one wouldn't have choosen to come to UGA at all, but it ended up it was the only one I could feasibly afford. Now, with four years of study behind me, I can't imagine a place that I would rather study. The teachers are inspiring and well versed in their fields, and the students (even if completely opposite of you) are extremely nice. I think probably the biggest question/ most helpful question that you can ask yourself is in the city or not. It's probably the easiest too. I would say you should concern yourself so much with whether the university itself is big or small but really its location.

Matt

When trying to decide on a college, look at what all it as well as the surrounding area offers. You want to have a school that offers a great education for a reasonable price, and a campus and surrounding area that suits you.

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Joshua

Consider all aspects of whatis needed. Find the college that surrounds with the most things to offer and gives the most help. Don't be afraid to go into the unknown and try new things.

Colby

Parents should first and foremost let their children make the final decision. Obviously money and location should be a major issue to be discussed. But schools that are comparable should all be considered so no opportunity is left unnoticed. Students should not only research facts on paper about a school but should do their own subjective research on students who currently attend or have attended the school. Also, students should go into the selection process with an open mind, knowing that if they pick comparable schools, there may not be a right or wrong decision. Experiences are different at any school but can be great no matter where a student is. College is truly what you make of it. The best advice I have ever received is that you get out of college what you put in. A positive and open attitude will prepare students for the best years of their lives. Attitude has literally been the deciding factor in the college experiences of everyone I have known.

Amy

Don't declare your major, or take any courses specifically related to your intended major, until after your freshman year because chances are you will probably change your mind. General core classes make for an easier transition into college classes and since you have to take them anyway, better to get them out of the way when you are a freshman instead of risking specific major classes that may get dumped into "general electives" if you do end up changing your major. Don't go absolutely crazy just because it's the first time in your life that you don't have to answer to your parents. It's not that hard, or uncommon, to have a great time without getting completely plastered. Retype your notes. It's a great way to study. Drink tons of water, avoid the bus, and the freshman fifteen won't be looming over your waistline. Get crazy about your team. Even if you were never that into sports or you have yet to discover the difference between a touchdown and a field goal, fake it till you make it. School spirit makes the ride that much more fun!

Ellyn

To all prospective students: research the colleges you are interested in! You should be knowledgeable on all aspects of your chosen college from dorm life, financial assistance, classroom policies, greek life, off-campus housing, location, amount of students in attendance, etc. All of these things will play a very large role in your life once you are out of the house and "on your own". If you do not know all the most basic information about your school, you could find yourself alone in a place that you really dislike. It is crucial to find out all there is to know about possible school choices. One good way to find these things out would be to ask other people who have attended the selected school! They will be honest with you and probably even have a lot to say about it. Do not just trust the pamphlets that the school sends to you. You should compare the facts and information that the online site gives you with word of mouth from other people in the know!

Felicia

Visit as many schools as you can before making a decision. Any school can look good on paper; you have to find the right fit for you. Your new campus should feel like a home away from home. If you can't stand to be there, then it's not right for you. Students, don't let your parents decide for you. It may be their money, but you're the one who'll be there for 4 years. Search for programs that target your intended major. Visit classrooms, talk to teachers and students who are currently enrolled; they have the most insight. When you finally get enrolled, step outside the box. Join an organization you know nothing about. You can meeet new people, and learn about something you wouldn't have considered otherwise. Join clubs and organization where your voice can be heard and you can make a difference. Volunteer! Don't forget about the community surrounding your campus that also needs your help. And most importantly, have fun! College is supposed to be the best 4 years of your life. You have the rest of your life to be stressed. Enjoy your college experience!

Benjamin

With the myriad schools and resources out there, finding the right school is a truly exhausting process. It is difficult to get a good idea of what any given school is like by the pamphlets and tours alone. The best way to get an idea is to talk to people from schools you're considering, and make sure they give you the most honest and well rounded answer possible, including both academics and social life. If you don't know someone, then the pamphlets and tours can help, but even if you feel as if your school is not right for you, give it a chance. There's no such thing as the wrong school, just as there is no such thing as the exact right school. Look for a school with the size and academics you'd want (and you'll have to figure that out yourself; no easy task, I know), and you're almost guaranteed to find both people and classes you like somewhere. Keep an open mind, do some wandering, try new things and new people (or those old time-tested) and you're sure to be okay. Good friendships are the key to college happiness.