University of Nebraska-Lincoln Top Questions

What should every freshman at University of Nebraska-Lincoln know before they start?

Katie

There are many factors to consider, but the only one that ultimately matters is considering which college is going to help a young person grow and mature into the best version of himself or herself. A college student must become an adult, and at the end of a college career, should be able to look back and say that they are overall better and closer to being the best they can be. A school should seek to foster an environment that celebrates people growing and becoming the best person that they can be as an individual, not try to fit students into certain molds. The school should make it's top priority the efforts to help students identify their purpose in life and then act upon that purpose.

Rebecca

Trust your gut instinct. You might like the idea of a college, but once you get on campus, you can FEEL whether or not it's right for you. Pick the place that feels like home.

Erica

Study and work hard with your school work, but make time to get to know people around you. They are going to be the best help for you socially and academically. These peers will be able to help you interact with your professors and classmates, as well as getting involved in extra-curricular activities.

Cassandra

I advise parents and students to chose a college based on its suiting your needs rather than by the presige that you may associate with its name.

Matthew

The two most important things to keep in mind when choosing a college are: "What would make you happy?" and "Don't sweat it too much." Of course, the criteria for future careers can vary tremendously from person to person, but in general, choosing a major that would bring you a job that you find enjoyable and interesting is a top priority. However, if you're not sure what you want to do (and even if you are), don't sweat it. College is a time to explore who you are. Yes, it's also a time to work, but there IS such a thing as overdoing it and missing the point. So what if you pick the "wrong" college? So what if you don't like your major? You can always change course. The majority of students change their majors or college at some point, and I'm no exception. Strike a balance between fun and work, and you'll do well. Parents: Be open-minded when it comes to your child's educational choices. They can still achieve happiness and success, even as your paths diverge. With that, I wish you and your child the best of luck!

Stuart

Finding the right college to go to is a tough job for any student. After two years of study in Nebraska, I have been through various hardships dealing with administration and the policies in my school of music. However, I have also discovered my place in this program and have learned an incredible amount through the direction and love of the faculty here. I feel there is no one reason that anyone should attend a particular university, there are hundreds of things to consider and in the end, it's best just to go with what makes you happy. A degree is only as good as the results that you yourself bring to the world. It will take awhile to find your place, but open your eyes and your mind and go out and meet people. Find out what clubs are offered, or see if the concert hall moves you. College is about gaining knowledge, but it is also about reaching out to be your own person. The only advice I can offer is to follow your heart, it knows what's best for you.

Neil

My advice would be not to choose the college that has the most prestigious overall reputation, but rather the one that is best attuned to your personal goals. This is where a little research goes a long way. Even if you only have the vaguest idea of what you want to do with your life, chances are there are multiple colleges that have strong programs in an area you're considering, and likely in related areas as well - there's no shame in changing if you find that your first choice of a major doesn't suit you. Indeed, this is hardly uncommon and should not be feared at all, since it can only help you to narrow down your future goals. If you ever find that the weight of your college tasks is crushing you, remember that the person sitting next to you is in the same situation. Never be afraid to ask for help! This is the most invaluable lesson that can be taken from the college experience. You may be getting introduced to the real world, and it may be more difficult than your life before, but never believe for a second that you're alone.

Alison

When choosing a college, you should definitely go visit. I visited many colleges and when I found the right one, I just felt comfortable and could imagine myself going to school there. When you get to college, get involved right away. At the beginning of the school year tons of groups are accepting new members and its a great way to get involved and meet new people. I would definitely suggest living on campus for at least a year. It does not seem appealing to some at first, but it is a great experience to learn to live with another person and build a community with the others on your floor. Make sure you look at the big picture when choosing a college. If you don't know what your major it, look at ones you might be interested in. Pay attention to extracurriculars and other campus life activities. The college experience is about academics, but also about have a great experience and meeting people you will be friends with for the rest of your life! Good luck and have fun!

Nate

When you apply for colleges, remember that this is where most of your memories will be created for the rest of your life.

Haley

Follow your heart.

Ryan

I would say to parents that you need to listen to your child when it comes time to start applying to college. They may want to really go out of state to a University and it would put a finanical hardship on your family. I feel that if your only choice of going to college is to stay in your state, you may not feel a perfect fit. It would be great that every student should be able to attend a college or university based on academics not what parents can financially handle. My parents have given my the opportunity to go out of state and I really think this has encouraged me to be the best student that I can be, and when I graduate and hopefully get accepted to Med-School I will one day be able to pay my parents back.

Joy

When looking at a college, you need to find the one that best fits the student's personality. Choosing a college is like choosing an apartment or a home, you need to be selective and thorough in the decision one makes. You wouldn't necessarily buy a house, just to buy a house. The same applies to a college. The college you choose will be your home for at least four years of your life, that is why choosing one that matches who you are is very important. The best advice I can give about making the most of the college experience is don't be afraid to put yourself out there. Even though the film quote is "Failure is not an option," that isn't the truth in college. Don't be afraid to fail. How else will you learn? You learn more from you mistakes than from your achievements. Yet, that doesn't mean you should make bad choices. The choices you make should match who you are and want to be, not because of peer or instructor pressure. College is your time to make your life how you want it to be, so make smart choices.

Krystal

The best advice I can give is to visit several different colleges, even if you think you know where you want to go. Take a campus tour and spend a day on campus walking around, looking in on classrooms and talking to staff members. Also, one of the best ways to evaluate your feelings about a particular college is to call a friend that attends college there and plan to spend a weekend with him or her. Getting to know the social aspects and student life in general will give you a huge insight on what it may be like to go to that particular school. Start planning early, start looking early to ensure that when the time comes, you have made the best decision for you!

Jaymes

A student should sit down with their parents when trying to choose the best college for them. A student should consider different areas that are important to them. For example, if a student wants a smaller environment for more one on one interaction with their professors, they should focus on smaller colleges. In addition, proximity may be something to take into account as well. The one thing every student should consider is living on campus. This is beneficial in many different ways. It allows the student to become more involved on campus and be exposed to opportunities that those who do not live on campus have. Furthermore, living on campus can be helpful with academics. There is always going to be someone around to help you with your schoolwork if you have any questions. Everyone living on campus is going through the same situations that you are and are more than happy to help you with anything.

Ciera

If you come here be ready to work and crawl over people to find a seat!

Bailey

Do not be afraid to utilize all of the services your school offers to you. If you're feeling down, there are people to help you. If you're struggling with school, teachers and advisers are there for you. If you're having money issues, there's guidance counselors that can give you advice. By knowing what help is available and using said help when you need it, you can maximize your college experience and truly grow to your personal potential!

Melissa

Make sure you visit the campus before you sign up for it. Get a feel for the type of people on campus--talk to them. Viewbooks usually show a great deal of diversity on campus but that doesn't necessarily mean it is the best representation. Also, don't be afraid to take out loans to go to your dream school, if you just "settle," you might be constantly wondering "what if."

Lauren

Some great advice I recieved around the time I was applying for colleges was that what you put into your college experience is what you get out of it. So I would tell somebody in this position to really evaluate what he or she wants and pick a school with a great reputation in that area. In order to get the most out of the college experience, you have to have study hard and learn as much as you can, but also you have to have fun - interact with what's around you. Don't be afraid to lock yourself in the library for five hours to get a big project done, because it will really pay off in the end. But also don't be afraid to take a break and catch a movie or grab some dinner with friends. These are the experiences you will remember most, and this is what will keep you going through those tough hours with your nose in the books. Take it seriously, but make sure you stop and smell the roses along the way.

Quyn

Part of the transition from high school to college involves finding the right learning environment for you. It may b e a small private or community college, or a big university. Whatever your choice, make sure it's best for you. It may also take time to find what's right for you because there's a chance you could change your mind.

Nathan

Simply, find a college that makes you happy! Don't just choose a college because it's cheap, and don't choose a college (sorry parents) just because your parents want you to go there. This is going to be your home for the next 4 years, you need to be happy. Financial aid is out there, colleges now a days have scholarships for almost everything. I would recommend starting early on the scholarships. I started at the end of my junior year in high school. When you come to college, don't be a bum in your room. Or if you are, learn to keep your door open. It works wonders to meeting new people. Get involved with different groups. Join intramurals! Don't procrastinate, even though the whole campus population does! Try starting on big assignments and studying for test at least a week before the date. Be yourself and have fun!!!!