University of St Thomas-Saint Paul Top Questions

What should every freshman at University of St Thomas-Saint Paul know before they start?

Alison

I would tell myself a couple things. Firstly, I would say to enjoy high school sports while they last, because this is the best shape that you'll ever be in! Also, I would say to not worry about the college selection process; you're going to get where you need to go. Also, just be open and excited for the incredible opportunities that both college and life are going to throw at you. Finally, I would tell myself to trust in myself and my decision, because it has turned out to be one of the best ones that I have ever made. I have come to know myself more in these 1.5 years of college than I had throughout my entire 13 previous years of school! And one last thing to add: the "Freshman 15" is a reality. Prepare youself. :)

Karen

I would do the exact same thing.

Thuong

I would tell myself to better prepare myself. For I did PSEO in Minnesota, taking college courses on a college campus during junior and senior year in high school, I would tell myself to optimize all of the help that they offer. Use the various tutors that they have, visit your professors often and seek help whenever something doesn't make any sense rather than trying to figure it out yourself. Be social and make friends, friends are great to study with and make the college experience that much more fun. Try to keep track of everything and then begin to manage time better, for it will help that much more as you are going through college. College is a great environment, make the library your best friend, its a great place to do homework and study. Don't forget to get involved, joining clubs and organizations help you meet people and will always make your time in college a much more fun experience. Remember, study hard, try your best, and last but not least, always have fun!

Isaac

I would tell my high school self that college is going to be difficult but exciting. It?s an opportunity to grow and enrich yourself in more ways than just the classes you take. Higher education is a place to discover yourself and develop ways to express who you become to society. College will open doors to a better future and you shouldn't drop out early because it'll take you 8 years to return. Although those eight years are very important for who you become, things are easier and life will be more fruitful if you finish your first time in college. I would also tell myself I don't have to take all my majors classes first because I'll end up changing my mind. Concentrate on some generals first to help discover what you are truly passionate about. Once you find that, declare a major, focus on studying because it'll only be a short 4 years if you do. Finally, even if you don't listen to this advice, everything will be ok because you'll return and finish a degree and then you'll know I was right!

Nickolaus

I would tell myself to make sure you study hard and to devote these next four years to school and learning and not as much to fun and games. I would tell myself to join all of the groups and clubs that you can to make as many friends as you can. Also volunteering is very important to employers. Finally, attend all of the meetings and events related to your career to be able to maximize the amount of business people that you know to better your chances of getting a job after completion of school.

Cory

Understand each course's load and how it will impact my social life. Stay on top of my assignments and class work from the first day of class, letting it pile up will lead to a few sleepless nights. Also, go above and beyond for help on papers, homework, studying for tests, etc. even if you don't think that you don't need it; the more work you put into school now will allow for a better job in the future, plus the professors see how much outside work you put into a class. The professor will be more willing to help you and help you in everyway possible. Lastly, constantly review previous topics and assignments so that you don't forget the information for later tests and so you don't have to cram the night before. The moral of my first semester as a college freshman is to stay on top of the class work and go beyond the normal.

Laura

If I went back in time, I would make sure I knew how difficult college was going to be. Not only academically, but also how large of an adjustment it would be. I would have formed better study habits and learned to be a little more outgoing. I also would have found a better job because college is way more expensive than I thought!

Clare

Don't give up on your dreams. You know that everyone in this world wants to make the most for themselve and you have seen how money has destroyed your family. Don't let the fear of ending up poor stop you from following your dreams. You love writing and so take journalism classes; take English classes. Being happy is not about having things- it is a conscious choice that you must strive toward every day by being exactly who you are. Who you are is a unique and loving individual who has alot of potential. If you work hard, you can achieve your dreams, despite what your father says. Don't settle for anything less thatn what you want. Oh, and work on your absentmindedness.

Victoria

I would tell myself that it is never to early to start planning for a career, and that any experience I can get is crucial to my future. Participating in sports and other activites helps give you experience and leadership skills which will help mold you into a well rounded individual. I would also tell myself to keep an open mind because college is the place where you really learn the most about yourself. You learn your values, what type of people you want to surround yourself with, and who you want to become. The last thing I would tell myself is to not be afraid to take risks, because taking risks helps you learn what you did wrong, what you need to work on, and what you want to do differently in the future!

Mirella

I would tell my high school senior self that I would end up absolutely loving St. Thomas. I would encourage myself to join all the clubs I was interested in, make lots of friends, be open to others, and never give up. I would also remind myself to keep perservering and not give up on the things that I love to do. Finally, I would tell myself to keep being true to myself and not lose my true self in the transition to college and making new friends. Above all, keep my faith present in my life because that is something that will keep me going during the tough times.