University of Minnesota-Duluth Top Questions

What should every freshman at University of Minnesota-Duluth know before they start?

Kaitlyn

I would tell myself that college is definitely a place where you are able to really define yourself as a person. It is a really good idea to get involved with activities on campus and in the city community to give you experience and to see what you like to do. You may think you know who you are now but a new door has opened and there are so many more opportunities. I would also tell myself to keep an open mind because college is a place where you find many different people with different views and to take advantage of it and learn what people think and how they view things. I would also tell myself to have fun! I know that I take my academics very seriously but that it is okay to experience new adventures and learn from them. College takes a lot of balance and time management between academics, social life, family, friends, and other things. College is said to be the best years of your life so keep your eyes open for new experiences. Lastly I would tell myself to not take for granted my experiences and college is general.

Colleen

When I was a senior in high school I was extremely nervous but at the same time excited to be attending college the following year. However, I really did not know what to expect to experience next year. If I could go back and talk to myself during that time I would have assured myself that there is nothing to be nervous about and you will quickly make friends and adjust to new life. One thing I would make sure to mention is the difference in workload. In high school it doesn't take much out of class work and study to succeed but in college you must study a little everyday to stay ahead and be succesful. Another reason I was nervous about college is that I was going in with an undeclared major. I would have told myself as a senior that being undeclared can actually prove to be an advantage because you are better able to explore your interests and learn more about yourself.

Kaitlin

The advice I would give myself looking back on that freshmen year of college would be to get out there and meet people and make friends. I was either in class or in my room doing homework or watching tv and now looking back on it I wish I had been told to get out there and meet people. The tv will still be there when you get back after homework is finished.

Jake

Jake, you should not waste your time taking only general education classes in college, instead you should look into culinary arts and get some practice in the real world. They do offer culinary classes in most colleges you check out, just ask any counselor or dean about any cooking classes. Find out exactly what you want to do, but make sure you like doing it and dont mind doing it everyday for the rest of your life.

Casey

First, I would tell myself to find out what classes were needed to graduate in college. Then I would take more PSEO courses, AP courses or CIS courses in high school. Classes in high school are free, unlike college, so it makes sense to take them for free if you can. I would also prepare myself for studying in college. A lot of my courses are based on lectures and tests. I am more of a hands-on, study guides, and projects type of person. I had a very hard first year because I had a hard time adjusting to that. Another thing I would?ve told myself was to save more money. I worked quite a bit in high school and made good money. The problem was though that I spent it on unneeded items and didn?t save it. Now, I am struggling to pay bills and buy food and am having a really hard time trying to find a job. If I could go back to high school and prepare myself for college better, I know I would have had a better first year in college.

Kelsi

If I could go back and give myself advice I would tell my self to make the most of the rest of my high school days. College is a lot different and you don't make the same bonds as you do in high school. I would also go back and take more classes that would count as college credit. I would be more prepared for college because I could tell myself what to expect and how much studying I need to do in order to get good grades. It would be helpful to come into college with a little more knowledge of what is going to happen, that would make it a little less nerve wracking. I would also tell myself that I will have the time of my life once I got to college, and that I made the right decision with my choice of school.

Chelsey

Stay healthy. Eat healthy food and keep exercising because even though it can be time consuming, it helps with the stress level. Make friends. They can be a big support and reduce your stress level. It is nice to have friends in your area of study also because then you can help eachother and study together. Keep getting enough sleep because sleep deprivation can really affect you more than staying up an extra three hours to study. Do not get behind in your school work! This is really important. Last but not least, enjoy college while it is there!

Jessica

College is harder than high school. As a result, you need to study and do well in the courses you take. However, it is a good experience and most of the professors love their field, so you learn a lot from them!

Alex

Going back to my senior year in high school, I remember that I made my decision to go to cosmetology school right away without even giving myself the benefit of the doubt to attend a university and follow my dreams. If I could go back and give myself advice, it would have been to weigh out my options more, and not to doubt myself and my talent. I would remind myself of my dreams since I was a little girl, and to never give up on them. I would prepare myself for all the changes in life, and responsibilities by paying attention more to what my adult guidance around me was telling me about growing up. That's what I would go back and advise myself about if I had the chance to.

Katina

In 2008 I listened to The Shins mostly, rehearsed after class for competition and school plays mostly, did my art and English homework before even leaving school mostly, and researched scholarships and colleges far less than mostly. In fact, I barely spent anytime that High School senior year thinking about where or how I would attend college. Mostly because I was afraid. I was certain of only two things ? I was going to art school and my parents were going to help pay for it. Yet, looking back on this experience as I sift through the messy process of transferring schools as a sophomore, I realize how simply I could have avoided such a hassle now. It?s easy to look back and tell yourself that you could have prepared more or tried harder. But in the end, the only advice that I could realistically give myself would have been to trust myself- to have applied to all the art schools out there and to have taken risks. Because now I know, it is the risk that allows you to discover what you really want and need. It?s the only way you can start to grow.

Mindy

If i could go back to my senior year I would do things differently. As a high school senior, I would of participated in P.S.E.O (postsecondary education opportunity). My senior year was just all fun and not taken seriously. I wish I would of used my time more wisely and got ahead! P.S.E.O is a great opportunity to get college experience before you are actually attend school after high school. They pay for your college education and gives you a head start. It would of made an easier transition into college. You would have experience with studying, tests, the work load, and getting used to the schedule you choose. You don't have to pay for text books either which is great deal. It is a great opportunity to get ahead, have your college education paid for, and have experience in college life.

Sheewin

Academically, socially, environmentally, college is a new experience, one very different from high school. Making transitions into college life will be difficult at times, but things could be done to prepare you for this new chapter of your life. In high school, academically get ready for college. Pay attention in class; GPA does matter to a certain extent. Reach a little further and take challenging classes, volunteer and be involved! When applying to colleges and for scholarhips, always do everything early, stay organized, and go for it! "Friends made in college are lifelong friends." Sometimes the friends you made in high school will also be your lifelong friends. Cherish the moments with family and friends. Keep those memories in your heart. Bond with fellow classmates in high school. You are one unit, the same graduating class, all in it together. Stay in touch with family and friends! They can be there supporting you when you need it most. Take care of yourself, stay healthy, get sleep, and be happy. YOU have to deal with this change, a new experience, a college life. YOU have to do what YOU think is right and best. Sometimes, it's simply all about you.

Nicole

As a high school senior I would have told myself to take things more seriously. When considering colleges, I did not really put that much effort into finding one that would have a major I wanted and as a result, I am going to have to transfer colleges after I finish my generals. I also would let myself know that college is not all fun and games. I need to be prepared to work hard and take my classes seriously. The first test I had was a math test and was not prepared for it. I actually got a C on it, and after that started working hard in all my classes. I did not get any more bad test grades after that one, but I wish I would have been prepared for the work load. Finally, I wish I would have been able to tell myself to be ready for any obstacles thrown my way such as a roommate that likes to party all the time, and handle these issues with maturity. Overall, going into college I feel I caught on pretty quick to all the transitions that I had to make and feel confident that I will succeed.

Jessica

To go back in time would be a blessing. I would tell myself to get more involved in school activities so that I had more to write on my college resume. I would tell myself to always look up, if a problem came along then I'd just have to work around it. The struggles you overcome in life now, will just make you stronger and better in the future. In highschool I believed in giving your all on every endeavor, but because of the fear of failure I wouldn't try to begin anything new or uncharted. I would tell myself that if you didn't try you didn't live. To sit by the sidelines and reminisce on the opportunities lost makes you just like everyone else who decided they didn't deserve more. The advice I would have given myself in highschool is the same advice I follow today. Put yourself first because no one else will. Be adveturous and live life like you couldn't go back in time and change your mistakes.

Heidi

I would give myself the advice to take your time with your decision and do what is right for you. Also, you should keep an open mind towards new situation. Trying new things will allow you to make more friends. You are not the only person who is feeling scared about going to college for the first time, so do not stress about that.

Zachary

I would tell myself to relax and have fun, while working hard. The transition to college life is a fun and new experience, you will meet many new peole and make many new friends. However, just because you are leaving Dassel-Cokato, doesn't mean you have to forget those who made it special. Hang on to those friends as well. Work hard in your classes to be the best you can possibly be. Follow your passions and don't let anyone get in your way. Following your passions will make you truly happy in your education and career in the future. There will be times when you will be tested, when they come, hang on to your values and follow your heart to the right decision.

Ashley

I would say enjoy every moment because the things that seemed to be so stressful and important in high school were not so important. I would also encourage myself and tell myself that college is much better than high school, that I'll meet so many influential people, and that I'll be presented with so many opportunities. I would congratulate myself on my hardwork throughout high school and remind myself to continue working hard throughout college because college is much more fast paced.

Rick

Buy a parking permit because your tickets will add up to more than you will spend for it. Know what you want to become and take the appropriate classes as soon as possible. Become involved more in the school. Jump into any organization you can. Dont stay cooped up in your room. Get out and explore the town!

Jason

I would suggest taking more PSEO courses in my highschool career. Though public colleges and universities tend to be less expensive, they are still not cheap. I would try and convince my senior-self of the following things: college really is a wonderful opportunity to gain knowledge and understanding. It is not about making a ton of friends or trying to find parties to rebel and let loose. Though I've not really been a part of that seen, I would assure myself that studying and getting good grades are the best priority while in school; there's nothing wrong with having fun, making friends or celebrating achievements, but keep the goal and purpose of education always in mind. People across the globe don't have the opportunity to choose their occupation, much less choose to go or not go to college. Be humble in your abilities and use them to their fullest potential because there are many people who would likely trade places with you. Oh, and decide what you want to do for YOU. Choosing a major or school to please others will not make you as happy in the end as if you do it for yourself.

Zac

Save more money so that once I get to college I won't be having to worry about money as much. As well as, take time to learn how to study, it will make things a lot easier in the future.