University of North Texas Top Questions

I would look for a school that fits the student's personality. If they are a studious person, the a party school would not be a good fit. Also, look at how big a college is. Sometimes a bigger school is better, because they have more prestige. However, some small schools have it also. It depends if you like knowing everyone that you go to school with or if you like meeting new and different people with almost every class you take. Also look at the clubs and activities that are available such as intramural sports, Greek life, interest clubs, etc. If you make a list of all the things you want in a school and find one that fits your personality and then actually follow through on all your wants, it should be an enriching time if life. Never be afraid to take risks, and never feel like you want to stay in your comfort zone. Some of the best times you'll have is when you venture outside your "safety zones."

I think that going to a community college for the first two years is the way to go, and then try to get into the best university that you can. I wished I would have gone to a community college first, just to save money and have a better chance at getting into a better university.

I would tell them to do a lot of research and visit as many colleges as you need to and choose a college that you like and do everything ahead of time

My advice to students who are interested in attending college is to make absolutely sure that the university has all the tools needed to help the student in their career choice. I chose the University of North Texas because the psychology program is amazing and it will definitely help me on my path to be a child psychologist. The faculty is always here to help in any way they can. I would also advise to pick a college where alcohol isn't the main thing the students do. Although there are bars around the campus, Denton is a dry county so the crime rate isn't as high as it would be in a city that has alcohol accessible to students. I would also say to stay focused and don't give up no matter how stressful it becomes. Be prepared, work hard and you will go far!

Actually go the campus. Get a feel for the community and its surroundings. Make sure that its a fit before you choose to be affiliated with a school. Plan early and visit as many places as possible.

First, research throughly any college or university you plan on attending. Second, be outgoing and willing to meet new people. Check out the greek organizations or any other type of club on campus. These will help you to relate to people like you and make new life long friends.

Just make sure you enjoy the experience

I believe it is unfortunate that in this country, the desire to receive the best education and become all that you can be is for many, hindered due to financial unability. It is a tragedy to see students accepted into the best universities, yet unable to attend because there is not enough financial aid available and families cannot support the remaining tuition and living costs. Until we see change I encourage students to place the greatest importance on their performance in high school in order to gain as much scholarship availability as possible. Sometimes through this process students have received a completely covered college tuition. From the minute they start their first jobs students should open a savings account dedicated specifically for college tuition and living expenses. It cannot be stressed enough that parents should begin a college fund for their children. High schools and communities need to more fully educate students and parents about the admission process, financial aid process, scholarship process, aid in finding scholarship opportunities, college expectations, college life, college problems and issues, etc. Maybe even begin a class. We need to better prepare students and parents to make informed decisions and take advantage of opportunities.

For student, I urge them to take their education into their own hands. They will definitely appreciate the value much more, especially if they are paying for the bulk of it themselves by finding scholarships and grants themselves. That takes a huge burden off of parents as well and gives the student a sense of responsibility and, more importantly, dignity. Now they've something for which to fight and it makes that degree much sweeter!

Understand what type of student you are in high school greatly determines your success in your freshman year at college. If you are a student that needs structure to remain focused, staying near home is an option that should not be ruled out. Most students want to do the "cool" thing, but if you don't forsee challenges, you could be setting yourself up for a rocky freshman year. Don't take too many classes your freshman year, because your still feeling things out and getting more settled into study habits. Keep in mind your general personality when choosing a school. If you never went to high school games or are not that social, it might be more beneficial to go to a school with less emphasis on sports. My best advice for incoming students is really play to your interests and environment. Get involved in something, anything, your freshman year and you will find people who will remain with you for your entire college experience.