University of Miami Top Questions

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

Stephanie

The best thing that I did when I started searching for colleges was that I picked a very specific major right off the bat. I decided that I wanted to persue theatre arts management and I wouldn't settle for anything else. Since not many schools offer that major to begin with, I had already narrowed down my search by a lot. I thought about how far away from home I wanted to be, and decided that I wanted to experience a different culture than what I was used to. I am also a huge sports fanatic and would not be satisfied at a school that didn't have a good athletic program and school spirit. I then looked for the school that met these criteria, and only found one, the University of Miami. I applied despite the tuition cost, never gave up, received a scholarship that I never expected, and now that I am a student here, I couldn't imagine being any where else. I have become involved in a variety of different organizations and have met an amazing group of people. My advice is ultimately to know what you want to get out of your college experience.

Kalea

I would advise parents and students to go for it. Take a chance, and find a college that not only challenges you to meet other people and join activities, but also provides a good education and support to succeed in life after college. There are so many new experiences in college, and getting oriented with being on your own and making your own decisions is a big part of going to college. Taking the opportunity to enroll in an institution that brings out your own personal attributes and qualities will enable great success and opportunity if you put yourself out there.

Alexa

I would say that you should know what size of school you want to attend and focus on the right fit. Your first choice may not be right for you, so don't be aftraid to transfer if you think you need to from whatever school you decide. Being happy with you are really makes a difference in your college experience.

Matthias

Advice I would offer parents and students while choosing a University would first be to investigate the racial diversity of the school. Then, I would advise them to research job placement assistance available for students after graduation. Also I would compare tuition and living expenses to other Universities in the area. Finally, I would investigate class sizes to ensure a good student to professor ratio.

liz

internships and open your horizons to new people

Hunter

You just got to go with what feels right. I had a few choices between colleges, but after visiting the University of Miami I knew it was where I wanted to be. If a school doesn't feel right to you, don't choose to attend that one. The course material is difficult enough, there is no need to deal with the stress of being in the wrong place. College is supposed to be a place to grow and find yourself. Find a campus that has people who have the same beliefs and ideas as you, but also surround yourself with those whose opinions differ from yours for these are the people you learn from the most.

Nathalie

When in the process of choosing adequate facility of higher learning focus on the needs and wants of your student first and your needs and wants second. It is important to allow your student to start making decisions for him/herself in order to mature and learn from their mistakes. In order to make the most out of your college experience, focus on the things that you love. If you're there to study and graduate as fast as possible you might not have as much fun as those who aren't there for the same reasons. It's important to take breaks and it's important to stay focused. Once you find that middle ground, college will be a cinch.

Christina

Advice that every student should receive about finding the right college and making the most of their college experience is to explore your passions. By finding a college that offers courses, clubs, events, or internship programs that interest you, you will be motivated to work hard and be driven to success. If you do not know what you are passionate about, any college experience will expose you to many new and exciting opportunities. If you do know your passions, go for it- and try new things as well. Nothing will be lost by a new experience. Approaching my last semester of college, I have learned that what you regret most are the things you didn't do. Simply think about what makes you happy and look for a college that will help you explore your passions. Following your passions will let you make the most of your college experience.

Jacquie

College choices are many and it is so important to take into consideration your study emphasis and passion. Graduating from a private day school, I thought that a larger campus would be a great fit for me. After careful consideration and listening to my guidance counselor, my decision to attend a mid size college was the best fit. To make a campus visit is helpful but not always necessary. Most importantly.....don't be afraid to take the chance and reach for your dream school.

Stacey

Don't be constricted by location -- actually visit schools and find the one that fits best for you! Also, do a lot of research on how to pay for college and consider what you want to do when you are done and how much you will make. Those first repayments out of undergrad are a killer when you're a teacher in a low-income area!