University of Idaho Top Questions

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

Gloria

It takes a lot to find the right college and sometimes it is not always your first choice. Just be patient and the right one will catch your eye. It may not be great with football and it may lose every game, but it will make up for it in some other area. To make the most out of the college experience: do not stress, overcome the obstacles, do the work, and have fun. You need the support not only of your family but of you peers in college; go out and make friends. They are a lot nicer than most people depict. Oh and don't overload with school work. A person with constant homework will have his brain fried within the first couple of months. Take a relaxing class like art or dance to help keep stress levels down.

Randa

I would definitely suggest coming to the university for a campus tour. The campus is beautiful and prospective students can really get a feel for what the university has to offer. I would also suggest that parents and students take the opportunity to visit many campuses. This will help prospective students guage what type of universtiy they wish to attend.

Shad

My advice for students going to college is very simple. Before you go, ask yourself if you are sincerely ready to take that step. Can you take care of yourself, be away from your parents and be responsible enough to do what is required of you? If you are, pick a college for the program and its credibility but also choose somewhere that you'll be able to spend four, five or maybe even six years at. High school friends should not make your college deision for you. There are endless oppurtunies to meet and make new friends as long as you take them. Most importantly you should know that you make your college experience. You will get out of it what you put into it. This applies to schoolwork, friends, relationships, clubs, sports and life in general. You only get one life to live and one shot at most things. Doing your best the first time will make for less regrets, better grades, closer friends and a more fulfilling life.

Nicole

I would say that the most important part of finding the right college is to keep your options open and go look at the school you are applying to. Looking at the campus will help narrow down the search and keeping an open mind will help you not quickly eliminate a good college. When going to college make sure to be willing to make new friends and try to not go home too often, Staying on campus on the weekends can help you get more accustomed to living there and will also help with making friends. Also a good balance between work and school is necessary to really have a fun college experience.

Jamie

Look around at all the possibilities, don't just consider the school that is your 1st choice or in your home town. Also take tour of any campus that you are seriously considering and take the tour when there are students in session, it will make a difference in how you feel about the university. Also apply for scholarships, and lots of them. Don't count one out because you think you won't get it. The more you apply for the more likely you will receive money that will help you go to a school that you maybe did not think you could afford. Once your in college get involved how ever you can. Join clubs that interest you or are related to your major, not only will you meet other people that like the same things you do you will also have a better resume and that helps get job offers in the future. If there is Greek life on campus consider it because it isn't like all the movies. The houses are full of real people who you can bond with and make true life long friends.

Kim

Choose a 4 year university over a community college as it offers a richer, more diverse experience. Enjoy college life and try to get some job-related experience, such as internships, in addition to doing well academically.

Kelly

When searching for the right college, it's important to consider more than the football team's record. Look into class sizes. Are your freshman lecture courses going to have 500 people in them? Can you stay motivated in this environment? Check out clubs on campus, as well as what it takes to start new ones. Clubs are great places to meet people with similar interests-- much better than in the classroom. Do you feel comfortable on the campus? Do you find it aesthetically pleasing? It's important to enjoy your surroundings, because you'll be looking at them every day. Do you know what the weather is like in the winter? Can you handle a foot of snow on the ground for months? These are all important things to take into account. To make the most of your college experience, get involved! Join a club, play a sport, go to theater production, listen to a visiting author read, and volunteer. There's so much more to college than classes and homework. It's hard not to enjoy college when you are surrounded by good friends in an environment you can succeed in.

Shaniece

Make sure that you, the student know the experience you want from college, and that the college you choose provides that. Try to visit the school without your parents so that you can see the real college and not the one presented to you. To parents allow your children to visit by themselves because they might make the wrong decision because of your influence, and end up unhappy. If you can't let them visit by themselves then how are you going to let them go when you have to. Allow them go visit by themselves during their senior year. Don't wait to long or it will be too late.

Jena

know what you want and go for it, picking a college can be stressful but if you choose the school for youself you will do better in school and enjoy your experience more.

Tracy

My first advice to any student looking at colleges: Move away! One of the most difficult things for students to do in college is to become independent and self-sufficient. Students who stay at home don?t realize that little things like filling the fridge, and paying bills are huge responsibilities. Along with responsibility, moving away takes you out of your element and the change allows you to adjust to your new life as a college student. It is essential to go far enough away that you have to make new friends but that you are still comfortable you can get home when necessary. Advice to parents: Let go. They'll be Fine. Don't worry, they will still call, especially when they need something. When making the most of college, look for a school that has high rates of student involvement, and plenty of student leadership opportunities. You don't have to be president of every club, but being involved allows you to meet new people and learn outside the classroom. Clubs are a great way of getting involved because they often travel, hold workshops, and even help out the community. Not to mention they look great on resumes.