Kayla
Oh boy, this is a very big question for me, as I have grown in many ways since I have started attending the University of St. Thomas. I feel I have learned a lot about not only factual subject matter, but how exactly everything relates to the real world. I have also learned quite a bit about myself and what it is I have to do to be successful. Going to college doesn't only bring you academic experiences, however. I have found new interests in music, people, activities, etc. The college experience has made me much more well-rounded, and I find myself branching out and exploring the world around me much more than I ever thought I was capable. Going to college is not only important for having a successful career someday--it's important for becoming the best person you can be.
Manal
What I have gotten out of my college experience is that I have a newly-found confidence when it comes to my path and aspirations in life. Being at St. Thomas made me realize that I am exactly the school I need to be at.
Karen
To most college-age students, I'm an old lady. I came back to school because I had always regretted not finishing my degree. Laid off after working twenty-six years for an insurance company, I felt like I'd lost my identity, not to mention my family's primary source of income. Going to college has been valuable because my education is something that no one can take away, even in difficult times. It's given me experiences and allowed me to meet people that I will never forget. It's given me a goal; one I am determined to achieve. I have learned so much and I am incredibly impressed with the young people around me who work so hard to reach their goals. I know that I'm lucky to have this second chance; not everyone is so fortunate. My message to students everywhere: all of life is for learning, but now is the time for college.
Ashley
I got a life out of my college experience. I grew up in a how where we didn't have much and no one expected much, and once I had my daughter I went back to school to prove I can do somethign amazing despite the odds. I now am so close to graduating, and this whole time I learned that anyone can do anything, that this school and the people in it are just like me, fighting against the odds, to do something great. This campus this school, makes everything possible for every person who walks in through the doors. I will remember CSI forever.
Joe
I have received a world class education as well as had the ability to see the world through a different scope. I have learned how to take proper initiative when doing homework as well as developed better study habits. I have made life long friends here.
Amal
This is my first semester at the University St. Thomas and it started off rocky but I feel content now. It was a little intimidating and nerve raking entering a new school at first. However, by the second week of school I met two incredible people that are still my very close friends. They made me feel more at ease and showed me the ropes. They even encouraged me to study abroad for j-term to Ghana. You can say that they brought out the outgoing, enthusiastic, bubbly personality I kept inside from these new people. So with my first semester I’ve made great friends, received good grades and matured in a sense. I love this school because professors actually care about the student’s well being and their education. The positive spirit running throughout this loving community promotes an environment of stability, security and knowledge.
BreAnna
I have had the opportunity to network with a group of individuals who are like-minded. They are people who share the same values and commitment to success as I do. I am so pleased to have the opportunity to be a part of such a valuable institution. Saint Thomas is not just a college it is a marriage, one between commitment and success, today and tomorrow.
Corey
The biggest thing anyone learns in their college experience in my opionion is dependence. More specifically, dependence on themselves. I have learned to take more responsibility for myself. While away at college you don't have your parents there to remind you to get your work done on time, nor is anyone there to remind you of that really. The professors care about you but, they also believe that as a college student you should have enough responsibility to care about your grades, schoolwork, and be able to accomplish these tasks on your own. It has been valuable for me to attend college because I've learned more about being independant and on my own. I am much more confident in my ability to rely on myself to take care of whatever task may lie in front of me. Beyond learning to be more indenpendant, it has been valuable for me to attend college in order to gain the knowledge that is going to stay with me (hopefully) and carry me into a profession which I can be sucessful in. College is a time of change and growth, not taking either of these seriously, would be a mistake for anyone.
Ellen
My college experience so far has been great. It took a lot of time for me to become comfortable with the idea of college and also about living on campus. It's been hard living away from home, but it has definitely been beneficial. The classes at first were very intimidating, but once I got a schedule down and become more comfortable, things seemed much more manageable. Also, joining the Rowing Club at school has helped me to make new friends and meet more people. Next semester I am thinking about joining a few more organization. I love to be involved on campus because it makes it seem more like this is the place for me. College is such a great opportunity in life where we are able to make new friends, learn to be independent and find who we are and where we belong in this world.
Annie
I have made life long friendships and recieved an amazing education. I know all of my professors on a personal level and have met numerous individuals to network with. Receieving a liberal education has allowed me to learn much more than I would have at a public college. All of my professors are doctors in their fields or currently working in their specific fields, so I am able to learn much more. The University of St. Thomas is an expensive school to go to, however it is an investment for my future and something I would definitely do over again if I had to.