University of Minnesota-Twin Cities Top Questions

The best advice I could give any perspective student would be to apply to at least 4 schools that you are interested in and be sure to visit all of them. For me, visiting my schools was what ultimately made up my mind- everywhere looks good on paper. Once you've selected a school, I think the best way to get the most out of your expereince is to get involved in both the university itself and the surrounding community. Being involved allows you to meet friends and people to network with, creates a sense of ownership and pride in what you do, and gives you a chance to grow more than just academically. Finally, I would suggest getting to know your professors. Not only will they be more willing to help you should you need it, you will also make connections with people who are already well-established in their respective fields.

Get involved, It will help you adjust and give you a sense of community

If possible, before choosing a college you should talk to current students and ask a lot of questions. Ask about the accessibility of the professors. Ask whether or not the student feels like s/he is part of a community. Ask about extra-curricular activities. This is the stuff that will make or break your college experience. Live on campus for at least a year. Dorm life is an experience you'll remember forever. During your first semester, find a student organization or two to join--don't take on too much responsibility right away, but make sure you find a social network and make friends. Don't be afraid to talk to your professors after class, even if it's not about class--be friendly with them and good things will happen. Find a spot other than your home where you feel comfortable studying. Lastly, the freshman fifteen is real: try to eat healthy and get some exercise.

Do really good research about the college and make sure to talk to a lot of college students who attend the college. Those admission people are going to want you in no matter what, they are not going to tell you the bad. So talk to a current student, and ask about the Good, Bad, and Ugly about the college.

Ask your friends and family about their college experiences and keep their stories in mind when you select a college. I know my dad was in a fraternity, and now that I'm in college I remember when he told me about his college days. I may be at a different college and choose not to be Greek, but it's nice to think that we still have things in common; having friends over and making dinner for everyone is a great way to spend a weekend! And even if you don't get into your school of choice, nothing says you can't make the most of what you have. Transferring colleges is usually an option, so until you can do that, get some basic courses done and try to have fun while you're at it. Sometimes you don't know that you're living your dream until you look back on what you've done; strive to make your wishes reality.

Go with what feels comfortble. If you get help learning about the school it is likely that you will be able to get help once you are on campus. Talk to professors in the department you are interested in studying in so that you get a better idea of the departments strengths and weaknesses. Do not go somewhere because it seems like a party school. It may be fun in the short term but you will regret it once you are looking for jobs after college. To make the most out of your college experience make sure to get involved in a few on campus activities. This will help you meet people with similar interests to you and you will feel a sense of belonging to the school.

As Benjamin Franklin said, "By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail." I was a first generation college student and as much as I prepared, I was still a fish out of water. I had a lot of misconceptions and didn't know how to find the answers or even which questions to ask! If you or your family is not familiar with the college experience, find someone who is and have them share their experience with you with as many details as possible and tell them your concerns. Do not take where you go to college lightly because it will be your life for the next four years. The top things to consider when choosing a college are: curriculum, price, location and what I had no idea about: CAMPUS LIFE! I had visited the colleges I considered but didn't spend a weekend or attend classes. I was an exceptional student in high school because I worked extremely hard but will only burn you out in college: you need to work hard and SMART. This means that you will need to prioritize and choose between the infinite demands on your time and find balance in your life.

I would tell students entering college to use all of the resources available to them. Writing centers, academic advisors, cultural programs are all set up by the University to help the student succeed and to become a more dynamic person. Seize all that's offered to you and be grateful for everything you've been given.

Do not be afraid of something new and different from where you grew up. College is a time where you really discover what you believe and why you believe what you believe, so going to a school with a lot of oppurtunities to grow as a person will make college a lot more fun for you. Get involved wherever you end up! Greek life is a great way to make a large university feel a lot smaller, and I promise it is not all about drinking - it made my college years amazing and gave me friends that I will have for a lifetime. Also, make sure that the school you chose has a couple majors you are interested in, because chances are high that you will change your major a time or two - and that is okay!

I would say to live on campus for your freshman and sophomore years. That way you can make some solid friendships faster than if you were to commute and be away from them most of the time. Not living on campus for my first two years was something that I always regretted. College is fun, so enjoy it as much as you can by living on campus.