College
Bound Surviving Standardized Tests: SAT and ACT Explained // 3 Choosing the Right University: Getting Acquainted with Campus // 4 A “Major” Breakdown: What to expect in your college classes // 8 Freshmen year Fears // 12 Roommate Respect // 16 Academic Allies: How to Utilize your Faculty Support System // 17 Maximize your Major // 20 A Note on Studying Abroad: from A Student Abroad // 22
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college bound // March 21, 2014
Surviving Standardized Testing: SAT and AcT explained by Kaylee Walden SAT and AcT: two acronyms that strike fear into the hearts of high school juniors and seniors across the nation. Though it’s somewhat ridiculous that these standardized tests place a numerical value on your perceived intelligence, they are an inescapable part of the process of applying to college. However, by following certain tips, you can make the test-taking and planning process much less stressful. The tests have their differences, but appropriate scores from either are grounds for admission to any university. In the past, the SAT was the clear choice if you wanted to be accepted into a larger, more esteemed school. now, prestigious universities, private colleges and even Ivyleague institutions will also accept AcT scores submitted from an applicant. Most institutions do not prefer either test, or value either one higher. However, certain people may be better suited to take one or the other, based upon how they learn and process information, and upon which subjects they prefer. AcT has a science section, containing basic questions on biology, chemistry and earth science. Though it’s generally assumed that students who excel in science will do better on the AcT, the questions focus mainly on student’s ability to gather information from a chart or graph, rather than in-depth analysis of science concepts.
While both tests include a timed-write, it is a mandatory component of the SAT and optional for the AcT. Many schools prefer a score including the writing component (and some require it), but it’s not always necessary. However, if you score high enough a university will exempt you from mandatory introductory-level writing courses. While the timed-write’s duration is slightly longer for the SAT (30 minutes compared to the AcT’s 25), both essays prompt you to write from personal experience and outlook on a relevant and often controversial topic. generally it is said that those more apt to language should opt for the SAT, while the math-minded should take the AcT, but this is not necessarily true. AcT focuses more on grammar and punctuation, while the SAT deals heavily with vocabulary and proper usage of words. The languageinclined are suited for either test.
The AcT is more condensed, lumping subjects together in long time blocks, while the SAT alternates between subjects. The AcT has slightly more questions than the SAT, but less time is allowed for each question as they are worded more simply and generally require less analysis. The SAT is formatted to test reasoning skills, while the AcT is intended to asses a student’s ability to extract information from a diagram or paragraph. A major difference between the two tests is their policy for scoring wrong answers. If you choose the incorrect response on the AcT, you are not penalized; just as on a regular test, you simply don’t receive credit for that particular question. However, on the SAT, you will actually lose credit for questions you answer incorrectly. As a result, the SAT does not favor guessing on questions nearly
as much as the AcT. Preliminary tests sophomore year, called PSATs, mimic the test style SATs and AcTs. If these tests are offered at your high school, be sure to take them to gain experience with a similar format and test atmosphere. Students often try to study for the AcT and SAT by memorizing the lessons from large practice books—an unnecessary and tedious task. both tests are intended to assess the information gathering techniques that you have learned throughout high school and your ability to solve problems, not your knowledge of specific material. Further, each version of the test has different questions, and cramming the month before most likely won’t increase your score. However, you can find useful, mock AcT and SAT tests online that will help you to practice with a time limit and improve your ability to answer questions under pressure. If at all possible, it is advisable to take both the AcT and SAT before you graduate high school. You may score much higher on one or the other. After, try to retake whichever test you scored higher on, because you may score higher yet. don’t forget to take the generic test advice to heart: get a good night’s sleep, eat a balanced breakfast that morning, don’t stress, and, simply, try your hardest.
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choosing the right university: get acquainted with campus by Kaylee Walden no matter how many exhaustive hours you spend reading up and researching, it’s impossible to choose the right college without visiting campus and experiencing it for yourself. exploring the library, the buildings, the residence halls, even the local coffee shops will help you decide whether a university and the town it’s located in are the right fit for you. CAMpUS ToURS It’s best to begin looking into campus tours early-sometime before high school graduation and after you’ve received your acceptance letter. If you have a handful of universities that you’re choosing between, visit as many of them as you can; the “feel” of a campus’s atmosphere will play a fundamental role in your final decision. official campus tours are generally conducted several times a month, which provide a chance for parents and high school students to tour the buildings and facilities with a group that includes other future freshmen. The groups are led by a guide, commonly an upperclassmen, who has been trained to answer questions about anything from university policies to campus culture.
Most universities offer both group tours and private tours. Private tours are ideal for exploring particular parts of campus and having aspects of student lifez explained in greater detail. While on the tour, you’ll have a chance to check out your potential residence halls, the size of the rooms and the proximity to the library and your classes, allowing you to make a better decision of where to live. In addition to an organized tour, be sure to take at least a few hours to explore campus on your own, to discover the layout, the atmosphere, and the type of people that attend the school. grab a campus map from the main office and walk around while students are changing classes. observe everything you can, and remember that you are not only choosing the best place for education, but also a new home for the next four years. Also take time during your visit to look around the town that your college is located in, and take into account the additional benefits it may have to offer. consider if you could feel comfortable on campus and in the area, especially if the university is far from home in an Cont. on Page 7
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Campus/ from pg. 4 unfamiliar city. If you can, talk to people you know who are currently attending the university, and get their feedback on aspects that the official tour may not address. Make sure to address all of your personal concerns before settling on a school. Above all else, never be afraid to ask questions. When it comes down to it, the decision is yours. oRiENTATioN After you’ve committed to a university, you will be required to attend an official student orientation to learn about the campus basics and what to expect during your day-to-day life as a college student. The specifics of orientations vary, but they generally last
three days to one week, and take place before the beginning of the first semester. Along with other incoming freshmen, you’ll participate in different activities, designed to
make you more comfortable with finding your classes, safety on and off campus, and making new friends. Ask your orientation group leader about the program for your prospective major, and if you’re undecided, ask about the options and counseling the school offers. generally, freshman students will be split into groups by major, and will attend specific events to educate them on their chosen department. Sometime during orientation, you will register for classes and create your first semester schedule with the help of a student adviser. If your school offers more than one orientation session, it is best to sign up for the earliest
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available session since classes that are required for all freshmen fill up quickly. usually, there isn’t much direction during orientation sessions, and scheduling classes and meeting new people is stressful. If you don’t have a positive experience, don’t be discouraged. orientation is not always a completely accurate reflection of daily life on campus. If you still have additional questions that haven’t been resolved after both your campus visit and orientation, contact the office of Admissions at your university.
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A “Major” breakdown: What to expect in your college classes by Kaylee Walden Some incoming freshmen already have a future career in mind, a specific passion that aligns with their strengths and interests. others blindly choose a major based on their hobbies, what their parents encourage them to do, or which subjects they succeeded in throughout high school. no matter which group you fall into, it’s best to have an idea of what to anticipate (and what to avoid) while selecting a field of study.
NURSiNG GpA Requirement: Yes Right for you if you have caring instincts and are able to empathize with others. Avoid if you aren’t a morning person or have a weak stomach. As a forewarning, if you cringe at the thought of bodily functions and blood, do not choose nursing. nursing is also one of the most structured, hands-on and competitive majors available. The first two years consist of prerequisite
classes, such as microbiology, anatomy and physiology, sociology, psychology, and students must keep their gPA as close to a 4.0 as possible in order to be selected for the upper division program. nursing majors apply, if on track for a four year graduation, the summer of their freshman year for upper division “clinicals,” which consist of hands-on work in a local hospital in conjunction with their on campus classes. graduation from the
program depends on proficiency both in the classroom and a clinic setting. BUSiNESS GpA Requirement: no May be right for you if you work well with others and enjoy a professional atmosphere. Avoid if you have an incurable fear of public speaking. The business department encompasses a wide range of majors, from commerce and marketing, to accounting and
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economics. classes within these majors, especially those of a higher level, mimic a workplace atmosphere. The classes not only teach business concepts that will be useful later in a career, but also workplace conduct. business majors are conditioned throughout their studies to learn how to work well with others, and to become comfortable speaking intelligently in front of a large group. collaborative work for tests and finals are common, encouraging a sense of teamwork. Students are often expected to work together writing essays, presenting research, and debating concepts. The classes become more complex and in-depth each semester, and also become more and more practical. business classes emphasize interpersonal and communication skills over studying and memorizing specific information. ENGiNEERiNG GpA Requirement: no This may be right for you if you think mathematically and take a structured, logical approach to challenges. Avoid if you hate spending time on homework & problem solving. engineering is often described as the most rigorous major that a student can take. Students can expect plenty of math and physical sciences, long homework assignments and difficult exams. classes in engineering build upon themselves, returning to the same concepts taught in previous classes and expanding
on them. There is often collaboration between engineering departments on real-world projects and experiments. Most upperlevel engineering classes consist of researching and building a project with a group. engineering majors are either required or highly recommended to complete a summer internship, which is usually well compensated. EdUCATioN GpA Requirement: no This may be right for you if you have a knack for explaining concepts to others. Avoid if you are impatient or dislike children. Teaching majors study a wide variety of material. Many teaching classes are a review of material with a different perspective; instead of learning specific concepts, teaching majors review them and learn how to effectively teach them to young students. They will learn basic concepts and teaching techniques in mathematics, history, material sciences, literature and writing. Senior year, teaching majors will complete a year of student teaching that may take place in a different state from the university. Secondary and primary education majors will follow slightly different paths. ARTS GpA Requirement: depends This major could be right for you if you are self-driven, detail oriented and extremely creative. Avoid if you don’t take criticism well.
Arts majors, from design to drawing, are a great option for those who are artistic to improve and polish their skills. Studio classes, which are up to three hours long, are required for art majors, giving them an extended amount of time to concentrate on a specific project. Majors in the arts are extremely self-driven; meaning that it is up to the student to succeed. classes are seen as “easy” compared to the sciences or mathematics, but they require more personal effort. Though art majors are creative, they often struggle with the structure and specific techniques that classes require. An art major has to be open to exercising their talent within the parameters given to them for a particular assignment. Many art majors have a “gate,” or an evaluation that takes place during the second or third year of the program to determine whether or not an applicant is allowed to continue within their chosen major. The gate considers gPA, and a portfolio submitted by the student. While internships in the arts are not usually required (and are often unpaid), they can still be extremely useful.
tions, literary criticisms, research projects and just about anything involving grammar, book, and the use of words. Though writing and journalism majors may not have to suffer through cramming for exams and hoping they pass, they will have to frequently write 20 page papers. In other words, procrastination is nearly impossible. like the arts, writing and journalism are largely selfdriven and creativity oriented, and may also have a gate that students must pass their third year to continue their studies.
WRiTiNG/JoURNAliSM GpA Requirement: depends This may be right for you if you read constantly, question everything and express your thoughts better in writing than aloud. Avoid if you aren’t proficient in grammar and vocabulary. As you may assume, the classes include a lot of writing; in-class reflections, long disserta-
ARCHiTECTURE GpA Requirement: no This may be right for you if you’re a perfectionist with an eye for detail and an appreciation of the arts. Avoid if you aren’t proficient with computers or have a hard time with visual learning. classes during the first two years of the architecture major
CoMpUTER SCiENCE GpA Requirement: no This may be right for you if you have the patience to work through problems slowly and carefully and are comfortable working with numbers. Avoid if you’re easily confused by algorithms and formulas. computer science is one of the fastest growing fields in the face of the ever-growing world of technology. Smart phones, websites, video games and applications all require many people working behind the scenes with extensive knowledge of coding and technology.
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Major/ from pg. 9 are theory based, and teach students basic concepts and the base knowledge they need before they venture out into the field. during higher-level architecture courses, students work putting theory to practice, designing buildings and putting hours into the planning process. A large range of education is offered, from two-year degree programs that emphasize practical work in the field, to graduate degrees that delve deeply into architectural theory and
put graduate students to work designing buildings. Internships are generally required. HoNoRS pRoGRAM GpA Requirement: Yes This may be right for you if you enjoy class discussion and challenging yourself beyond typical material. Avoid if you dislike heavy reading or intellectual debate. Though it’s not a major in itself, Honors is a great addition to any degree. Most universities offer an honors program
for students who would like an extra challenge in addition to their studies. These classes are designed to broaden your worldview and challenge your opinions, helping to foster an open mindset. Incoming freshmen are required to apply to the Honors Program when they apply to a school, and are accepted based on gPA and previous academic merit. At graduation, program participants will receive different levels of distinction based on both overall gPA, and the num-
ber of honors credits a student receives throughout their years of study. The level may vary, but students are generally expected to maintain a 3.5 gPA average in order to keep their place in the Honors Program. The majority of the learning is self-directed, and requires a fair share of heavy, scholarly reading. The Honors Program is ideal for students looking for a bit of a challenge to supplement their regular studies. There is extra work, but also extra rewards both intellectually and on your resume.
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COLLEGE BOunD // March 21, 2014
Freshman Year Fears By Kaylee Walden
Whether you’re headed off to a state university, a private college, the workplace, an Ivy League school or the military, your first year out of high school is a time of personal growth and reflection. Freshman year will undoubtedly be a memorable year; a year of transition, of growing into yourself, of learning to stand on your own two feet. That being said, it may not be the best year of your life. Though exciting, change is uncomfortable, and comes with many bumps along the way. Every incoming freshman has their share of concerns and
fears entering into the unknown: “I have no idea what I want to do with my life, and people wont leave me alone about it.” The ever-present question for all high school students nearing graduation: “What do you want to be when you grow up?” If you had a dollar for every time an adult (your grandfather, your mom’s coworkers, your crazy aunt…) in your life asked this question, you would be a millionaire. The world expects everyone to have an exact career path in mind by age 18,
and a plan of how to get there. This is rarely the case. Every university provides resources for those who have not yet decided on their major. Consider your hobbies, interests and strengths and take classes in those areas. Simply going to college will not magically present you with an answer to what you should do with your life, but it does provide you with an opportunity to figure it out for yourself. (See “How to make the most of your college major” pg. 20) “Campus is huge. I will probably get lost.” College campuses can seem intimidating, especially when you first attempt to search out your classrooms scattered throughout different buildings. Most high schools have all of
their classes in one building, rather than in several different buildings spread out across a space of several blocks. For the most part, you’ll have more time to get between classes, and finding them quickly will only takes a week or two to master. Pick up a campus map from the office and keep it in your dorm room just in case. Orientation and campus visits will also help to clear up your confusion. If you ever find yourself lost, find the nearest office and they should be able to provide you with directions. Professors are generally sympathetic to students arriving late during the first few sessions of class. (See “Get acquainted with campus” page 4)
“Since I’ve never lived away from home, I don’t know how to do certain things by myself.” Though you may not want to admit it, the thought of not having your mom near to help you through certain tasks, even the simplest ones, might seem intimidating. Doing laundry, making food, medical care and other tasks that you’ve usually had taken care of for you are now your responsibility. That pile of dirty clothes and socks suddenly doesn’t just wash itself. Take responsibility. Before you leave home, learn how to separate your whites and darks, how to brew a pot of coffee, and where to go when you have a medical emergency. If you encounter more serious personal or emotional troubles, the counseling center and your Resident Adviser are there to make you feel more comfortable. Since all Cont. on Page 14
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can certainly find a common ground and get along with one another. (See “Roommate Respect” pg. 16)
Freshmen/ from pg. 13 incoming freshmen are facing a similar situation, you’ll make friends quickly, bonding over your dorm difficulties and laundry woes. Remember, if all else fails, your parents are always a phone call or Skype conversation away, and would probably love to hear from you—even if you’re just wondering whether or not you should add bleach.
“Two words: student loans. i’m worried that i’ll be completely broke.”
“i’m nervous about passing my classes. i’ve heard that college classes are much harder.” For the most part, yes, college courses are much more challenging than high school. Homework assignments are longer and more complicated. Studying for quizzes and exams is no longer optional, but essential for a high grade. Professors assign more presentations, essays and projects, and they expect that they will be well researched. college classes also rely more heavily on intelligent discussion. Rather than simply stating facts and forcing you to remember them, professors will encourage you to ask why, and to contemplate In short: Study and plan. don’t procrastinate. don’t follow the crowd. Read. be interested in the material. get to know your professors. Avoid distraction. Know your syllabus. be practical. (See “breakdown: college Majors explained” pg. 8)
“i’ve heard everyone gets the ‘Freshman 15.’ i don’t want to gain weight!”
walk, and although it seems impossible, try to sleep at least six to eight hours a night.
disruption of routine and a change of schedule are the most common culprits that contribute to those dreaded extra 15 pounds. If you make a commitment to health at the beginning of your time in college, a lapse in health is easy to avoid. dining halls have tons of unhealthy food, but they have their share of healthy options as well. Ignore temptation, eat your fruits and vegetables and keep healthy snacks in your dorm room. Join athletic clubs and utilize the free campus gym; both are great ways to stay active while meeting new people. bike to class instead of
“i’m worried that i won’t be able to make new friends, or that i’ll hate my roommate.” college will bring you out of your shell socially. Rather than sticking to your usual group in high school, you’ll meet a much more diverse group of peers. Join clubs and be friendly and open. dorms organize events— go to them. don’t rely on high school friends. other people are friendly, and in the same situation as you. As for your roommate, it’s all about what you do personally to create a good relationship. They may not automatically become your new best friend, but you
Though rumors that college students live off of Ramen and loose change have some truth to them, you don’t have to settle for the constant struggle with the poverty line while you’re in college. before you write your first check for tuition or apply for loans, do an extensive scholarship search; there’s more out there than you think. do research online and apply for anything that you qualify for. It’s a tedious process, but well worth it for the extra financial help. If you find yourself with no other options, there are always part-time jobs available around campus and the city, from waitressing to customer service. It may be tempting to take on more hours for more extra cash, but stick to a workload that allows you to still dedicate yourself to your schoolwork. create a budget and try your best to stick to it, as planning your expenses will help you to stay within your financial means. At the same time, don’t be so strict that you miss out on fun moments that are an irreplaceable part of the college experience. You have your whole life ahead of you to work and save money. (See “A note on study abroad” pg. 22)
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Roommate Respect by Kaylee Walden
Sharing a dorm room with a roommate is the classic living arrangement for college freshmen across the country. Forced to share close quarters with another student, you will find your personal space and privacy unavoidably diminished. dorm rooms tend to be compact and fairly primitive; they come minimally furnished, and are significantly less spacious than living at home. When you find out who your roommate will be, whether you’ve chosen someone you
R O C K Y. E D U
know or opted for a random selection through the university, contact them. enter into the roommate relationship in a friendly manner: introduce yourself, describe your interests and let them know you’re looking forward to the coming semester. establish who will bring what supplies and appliances for the dorm, such as a microwave and a mini fridge. It may be an uncomfortable conversation, but it’s important to establish a set of ground rules early, within the first week
or two of living together. discuss your opinions and preferences regarding sharing food, quiet hours, and cleanliness. Have a calendar up on the wall where both of you can clearly see. use it to mark days when you have exams so that you won’t have guests in the room late into the evening. communication is key to a sound roommate relationship. If both of you stew over issues in silence and only talk about them openly to other people, you will slowly begin to resent one another. Passiveaggressive sticky notes are not the solution to your problems. If you address your concerns face-to-face, your roommate will respect you more for it.
Although a messy roommate is enough to drive someone insane, there can be worse problems. don’t stick it out if you have real, serious problems between the two of you. Physical aggression, threats, repeated alcohol and drug infractions, theft, or bullying are grounds to contact your resident adviser (RA) immediately. If you feel uncomfortable and find yourself in a situation that cannot be fixed through compromise and conversation, meet with the director of your residence hall and request a roommate change. Your roommate may become a good friend, or you may both happily go your
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separate ways at the end of the experience. overall, try your best to be flexible, respectful and tolerant. everyone is human, and a small, shared space has the potential to bring out the worst in all of us.
Academic Allies: How to utilize your faculty support system by Kaylee Walden They aren’t just someone standing at the front of your class forcing you to take notes on a topic, or someone behind a desk mindlessly placing you into required courses. Students forget that a part of the faculty’s job is to help them succeed—and that they enjoy doing so. The resources that university professors, advisors, administrators and assistants can provide are too often neglected. don’t be afraid to befriend the people behind your education; gaining their
respect will vastly improve your experience with the university’s administration, and will work to your academic benefit in the long run. Academic Advisers The process of choosing classes can be overwhelming, to say the least. each must be carefully coordinated to avoid overlap, to account for a lunch break, and to not start at 8 a.m. (unless you’re a morning person).
during scheduling, an academic adviser becomes your greatest ally. They help you stay on track for graduation, choose classes that will work best within your desired schedule, and help guide you towards an ideal plan to reach your academic goals. An adviser is a faculty member in your major department, usually assigned at random during your freshman year. This should be a person with whom you feel comfortable truthfully and casually Cont. on Page 18
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Allies/ from pg. 17 discussing your progress and objectives. There should also be a sense of mutual respect established, and the sentiment that your adviser has your best interests in mind. If you don’t feel comfortable speaking openly with your adviser, or you feel that they aren’t readily available to you when you need them, most universities will permit you to change your adviser to another faculty member. Academic advisers can also help provide a sense of direction when it comes to careers within your field of study. They can work with you to consider internships. Above all else, it’s comforting to have someone who has your best interests in mind and whose job is to help you get there. never be afraid to go to them simply for advice, as long as you ask politely and schedule something in advance. pRoFESSoRS listening to a professor lecture eloquently to a room of your peers on perplexing concepts can make them seem intimidating, but most are more approachable then they appear. good standing with your instructors can make or break your experience in a class. Most students don’t use the help their professor is willing to provide to help them through the material. A professor’s extensive knowledge can help you to better understand difficult lessons, to pass tests, and to fully grasp concepts so you can build upon
them in courses further along in your major. At the top of the syllabus, all professors list their contact information and their office hours—they are there for a reason, as is their email address, but most students rarely use either. If you have questions or concerns, don’t be afraid
keeps you more involved in the discourse. besides helping you to pass, getting to know your professors will help you when applying for jobs later on. They have seen your work ethic and problem solving skills first hand, making them great references for jobs and internships. It always helps
to ask; your professor may be your best resource for passing a class. If you don’t understand something they mentioned in class, visit them in person and have them explain it one-on-one. If possible, sit near the front of the class. especially in large lecture halls and auditoriums, being closer to the professor and the projector screen makes it easier to see and hear the lesson and perceive body language. closer proximity also
to have professors with whom you have developed mutual trust and respect. If you find their method of teaching engaging, you can sign up for more of their classes in the future. TEACHER’S ASSiSTANTS (TAS) A Teacher’s Assistant, or TA, is an upperclassmen who helps to teach a class within their major for credit. They work alongside a professor, helping to explain concepts to students,
grade homework assignments and provide a better studentto-instructor ratio. TAs can provide resources that a professor sometimes cannot, and can often see your struggles with the material from an understanding point of view. Since there is a TA assigned to each section of a class, rather than to teach an entire subject, they are also usually more accessible than a professor, and sometimes more amicable. TAs are also required to list their office hours and email on the syllabus, enabling you to contact them just as you would a professor. You may find it easier to talk openly to a TA since they are still in college and are sympathetic to your predicaments. They have been through the class before, and can comprehend where you’re coming from with your difficulties. often, a professor has taught a subject for so long, and knows it so well, that they can’t always separate themselves from their familiarity and grasp why you’re struggling with what, to them, are simple concepts. TAs can clarify the professor’s lessons in simpler terms and in a low-pressure environment. Further, they can describe concepts in a casual way, unlike the lessons in class or within the textbook, to give you an additional perspective on the material. Since TAs have no say on your final grade, you don’t have to feel as apprehensive when going to them with problems and questions.
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Maximize your major by Kaylee Walden countless articles proclaim “the 10 hottest majors” or the “up-and-coming careers” for the current year, always including the same fields of study: engineering, computer science, medical studies, and some type of business degree. These articles infer that success is impossible through any other major, and if you happen to settle on psychology or art that you’re doomed to flip burgers for the rest of your life. If one fact can be deduced from the recent trends in postgraduate employment, it’s that a degree doesn’t necessarily guarantee you a job in the field of your choice--or a job at all, for that matter. The scope of socially acceptable majors is far too narrow; too many students pursue what the mainstream considers a prestigious degree, simply for the sake of fitting in. Some students force themselves to become a doctor, a lawyer or an engineer at the will of society and their parents, and many that do so end up spending their lives stuck in a career for which they have no passion. or, they end up three years into their studies and change course completely, setting them back both financially and from entering the workforce quickly. It’s not at all about the degree that you receive, but rath-
er how you use your resources and your time in undergrad to reach your personal career goals. Students can prepare themselves for a career in their preferred discipline, whatever that may be. do MUlTiplE iNTERNSHipS. nothing will prepare you better for a particular career than experience in the career itself. Sometime during your sophomore, junior or senior year, search out an internship in a career that piques your interest. The best way to test out whether or not a career path is right for you without an official commitment is an internship. The experience will either affirm your direction or make you reconsider. Further, internships are also a great way to make some extra cash or gain school credit during the summer.
NETWoRk. Internships will not only provide you with experience, but also with the opportunity to meet professionals who work in your prospective field. companies are always more likely to hire the candidate that they know, or who has been recommended by a trusted source. Academic events and career fairs are another effective way to get in contact with people in the industry. Most universities hold career fairs at least once a semester, where prospective employers come and meet with undergraduate students who will soon be on the search for jobs. Also make yourself accessible on social media websites such as linkedIn. do yoUR RESEARCH. Find out what careers within your field may be of particular interest to you. not
all careers are always on the mainstream’s radar; many high paying and fulfilling jobs are unknown to the general public, and your university may not always talk about them. especially with technology changing and developing as rapidly as it is today, new careers are surfacing regularly. Just because a career isn’t common or generic doesn’t mean that it can’t be a great opportunity. UTilizE yoUR MiNoR, Too. obtaining another degree that compliments and relates to your major will help to broaden your skillset. A minor can also help you to specialize in a certain area of your field, and appeal more to employers. Widen your scope of knowledge by taking different classes help to improve different ways of thinking. For example, a marketing, management or eco-
college bound // March 21, 2014
nomics minor added to any degree can make you more business savvy in your career endeavors. learning second language can improve your chances at success in a global market, and open doors to international prospects. Studying science and pre-law can help you become an environmental lawyer. contemplate all of your interests and try to find creative ways to combine them in your future career. CoNSidER AlliEd CAREERS. Though it’s essential to have some sort of goal for your ideal career, don’t have such a focused goal that you neglect other potential careers in your field that may also align with your skills and interests. If you like math, becoming a mathematician is not your only option; consider engineering, computer science, technology, or other careers that involve numerical concepts. If you originally planned to become a surgeon but find pre-medical classes too difficult, consider another career in the medical field. Keep your options open and your eyes wide to potential opportunities. AiM FoR ExpERiENCE. If you work a part time job during your time in undergrad, try and find something that allows you to utilize and improve skills you will need for your future career. learn how to emphasize your
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strengths and market your skills in an interview. become comfortable with public speaking and sharing your opinions in front of a group, and with your superiors. basically any job dealing with other people will help improve your interpersonal skills. See every opportunity as a chance for personal growth. ASk qUESTioNS. Throughout your time in undergrad, learn and question as much as you can. There will be no other time in your life when you have such easy access to knowledge, and intellectual experiences. develop critical thinking skills and take an open-minded approach to situations. If you truly apply yourself, the mental fortitude, social confidence and academic growth you cultivate during your college years will help you appeal to potential employers. HAvE THE FUTURE iN MiNd. Far too many college students move blindly through their four years of required courses, without even considering the fact that they will have to find a job after they graduate. nothing comes without hard work. Follow your passion; if you want something badly enough, and you take the steps to achieve it, you will succeed.
ONe wOrD Professors who know your name and have the highest degrees in their fields. Myriad approaches to earning your degree. A spectacular natural setting for a superb educational experience.
OUTSTANDING People. Programs. Place.
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college bound // March 21, 2014
A note on studying abroad, from a student abroad: by Kaylee Walden
I feel as if I’m in an alternate universe, on a break from reality, the familiar, the past, from reputations and expectations. For the first time in my life, I feel like I’m living completely in the present moment. A city in the foothills of the French Alps called grenoble has been my home for the last three months. besides the presence of mountains, it couldn’t be more unlike bozeman, Mont., the town where I’ve attended university the past three years. Though I’ve planned (and saved) for years in anticipation of this trip, nothing could have
prepared me for the adventure, the spontaneity, the unforgettable experiences I’ve had, and the wonderful people I’ve met. I’ve expanded my horizons far beyond what I imagined possible. Though the price tag of “getting there” deters many from studying abroad, I can assure you it is an invaluable experience. The past three months have taught me more about myself, about the world, and about life than I could have ever learned back home in the confines of my comfort zone. Although everyone’s time
spent abroad is a deeply personal experience, certain parts of the experience are universal: HiSToRy TRUly CoMES AlivE. Seeing museums and monuments with your own eyes breathes life into historical events you’ve only seen from the pages of books. before heading off for a semester or year abroad, take time to learn about the culture and also the language of the country you plan to visit. even if you aren’t fluent, having basic conversational skills under your belt will
get you a long way--especially when traveling and dealing with administrative procedures, like setting up a bank account or validating your travel Visa. Though many foreigners speak english, many are much friendlier when you attempt to speak to them in their native language (even if your grammar isn’t the best). Plus, a few months of complete immersion will do more to improve your ability to speak a language than years in the classroom can.
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SiMply liviNG iS yoUR ClASSRooM. Traveling to far places opens new windows of perspective and every sight and social interaction becomes your teacher. even the most ordinary days hold meaning. Take your time to stop and observe everything around you. Ask everyone you meet lots of questions; you’ll be sure to hear some unforgettable stories along the way. Say yes to everything you can; stay safe, within reason, but also push your boundaries and try things you would have never tried before. I’ve learned that culture shock can sometimes be a good thing. buy a journal and try and write weekly and take as many photos as you can to immortalize your experience. yoU Will CHANGE yoUR pRECoNCEpTioNS. While studying abroad, you will cross paths with people from all around the world, with different upbringings, cultures and educations. My new friends and acquaintances have given me insight into unfamiliar outlooks on life, and have taught me that despite cultural differences, there are commonalities between people of all walks of life. Through talking to locals, old and young, I’ve gained an insider’s perspective on the place I’m living, and a worldwide perspective on Americans and American culture. It’s a chance to break negative stereotypes and represent
yourself. I’ve eaten Vegemite toast with Australians, I’ve made fondue with French girls, and learned to dance from a brazilian—all of these people have left their own unique mark on my life. yoU Will ExpERiENCE UNpRECEdENTEd pERSoNAl GRoWTH. Traveling and living abroad teaches you lessons you could have never otherwise learned, and creates a sense of self-reliance. Personally, I’ve mastered how to travel light and pack efficiently. I’ve navigated foreign cities by myself (without the aid of google maps, I might add). I can introduce myself in six languages. I’ve submitted to spontaneity and shameless social experimentation. As young people, we’re predisposed to curiosity, a drive to discover the unknown; there is no better way to satisfy this than through travel. It’s easy to catch the “travel bug.” Through the confusion and the unfamiliar I’m attaining clarity; never has life felt so rich and full of meaning. It’s a constant challenge on the deepest level, but one that builds an undeniable amount of character. From one college student to another, I cannot emphasize it enough: If you have the chance to study abroad during your undergrad, take it. Spin the globe, pick a country and go.
rigorous, practical education while using cutting-edge application for real-world solutions.
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24 college bound // March 21, 2014
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