University of Louisville Top Questions

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

Sara

Looking back through my years of high school and receiving my Bachelor's degree, there are many aspects that I wish I would have done differently but I am not near regret. If I wouldn't have taken the routes I have chosen I would't be where I am today and wouldn't have learned everything about life that I have. I have told many since graduation that college is the best part of your life; to enjoy yourself, make friends, become a part of your college community, but never to forget the soul purpose you are on that particular campus. Degrees are crucial in these trying times and it's getting more important to further your education past a Bachelor's degree. There is a good balance to school and play, and every student needs to figure out a system to having both. Becoming one with the University keeps you dedicated in your studies, helps you network for when graduation arises, and creates life-long relationships. Greek life, student life groups, and resource organizations are all fabulous ways to take charge. They also teach you about responsiblity and how to manage the all so important word: TIME!

Stephanie

I would tell high school seniors not to slack off as a senior. You really need to take as many AP and advanced classes as possible to prepare you for college. The collegiate level is much more difficult than high school, and you want to prepare yourself for that. I wish that I took more classes in high school that regarded my field of study to help better prepare for college. Also, the college life is alot different than high school soley because you are independent. You have to be the one motivated to go to class, pay attention, and do well. It is the next step in a young student's life and college prepares you for the real world. The last thing I would have to say is to take it upon yourself to succeed in college. It's your opportunity to fulfill your life dreams!

Jessica

In My Own Words, advice to my high school senior self, "Where do you want to be in five years? Do you want to have your degree and start your career, Do you want to still be in school living the college life (racking up on student loans)? It's important to realize that while partying it up with your new found freedom may seem fun, it's actually costing you a lot of time and money in the long run. You can either party now and pay later, or work hard done, get through school, graduate, and have the freedom as a working adult to do as you please with your own money. You have the rest of your life to party, experience, and do the things you really want to do (with the comforts and coinveinence of being able to afford to do so). And you have these four years ahead of you that are going to possibly shape your future career, lifestyle, and financial wellness. Think about where you want to be in your future and what you want to do. Work hard now, it's just four years."

Pamela

If I could go back in time to talk to myself, I would tell me not to stress over the work so much. That I needed to just stop and take some time for myself. Stressing over the work just made it worst and more stressful to do. To succeed in the program, I need to found a group of friends and study with them. It will make it much easier and more enjoyable.

Caitlin

I would tell myself to remember that college is about growth - personal, intellectual, and social - and for the highest potential of that growth I must step out of your comfort zone.

Bethany

If I could talk to myself as a Senior in high school, I would tell myself that I need to keep working hard. That I should not cave in to my mother and I should persue my goals to get a degree in Electonics Engineering instead of going to school for Biology Education. I would tell myself that no matter what, don't give up on that goal, and to work hard and keep the grades up.

Michael

I would just warn myself that decisions you make will only get harder as life goes on. Each year you will come across a new hurdle and that choosing a college is just the first big obstacle. Transferring for me was my second hardest because it wasn't because I chose to but because I couldn't afford the school no longer. Leaving friends is something you'll have to get use to and making new ones something you'll enjoy. Have fun, work hard, enjoy life.

Mark

I would first sit myself down and explain to myself who I am and what I am doing. I would then proceed to tell myself that college is not as hard as you may think, if you follow a couple guidelines. For one, at the start of the semester, after you get all of your syllabi, make a note of all of your assignments and their due dates in your planner. College is much easier when you are organized, when you know exactly what is expected of you. Secondly, dont be afraid to ask questions not only to teachers, but to counselors, administrators, and fellow students. Also, try and get a job on campus. Even if it is only a couple of hours a week, it is a convenient way to make money and interact with peers. Finally, talk to the people sitting around you in class; they could turn out to be a excellent study partner or a great friend. By interacting with the people around you, you could potentially obtain a wider, more accepting view of the world.

Jonathan

Be open to new adventures of all kinds, but recognize who you want be and maintain your vision of the kind of person you think you should be. Be honest to yourself. Be yourself. Be concerned with your academic standings (GPA, etc.), but don't allow it to bring you down. Everyone has to adjust to a higher level of education and there's a good chance your grades won't be everything you expect until you get a feel for how things are handled. Get involved, have fun, plan your life, make friends, make goals, dream, and create a bright future for yourself. At this point, your life is basically entirely in your hands. This is likely the first time you'll have this freedom and responsibility. It can be overwhelming at times, but just be aware that the majority of people sitting in the classroom with you are feeling the same way. Take it one step at a time and success will most certainly light up the end of your path. Remember, this is supposed to be one of the greatest periods in your life!

Joseph

The advice that I would give is to take final exams more seriously. In high school I never studied for my final exams because i thought I already knew all they information and I would do ok. But my theory of not studying didn't apply to college. The exams were a lot harder and required me to memorize a lot of detailed information. So study for you exams and take them seriously!