Admissions

Keep in mind that although CSM is a community college, that doesn't mean classes are going to be easy. I still had a lot of studying to do for midterms and finals.

I would definitely advise coming to CSM because you save a lot of money by going to a community college first and then possibly transferring to a 4-year university. Get as many scholarships as you can. Apply for financial aid, it really helps to. Buy your books when they have book sales and sign up for classes asap, or all the classes you need will be filled up. See an academic advisor and talk with your high school guidance counselor.

(1) Make sure you read the instructor/ professor reviews. You get to add and/or drop classes a couple of months after the semester starts, but that would be a waste of time and effort, so it's best to pick the right instructor from the start, or at least get a feel for what to expect within the first week, when your class is just going over the syllabus and/or when the first lesson is introduced. Don't get me wrong; the professors are all great in their own way, but you want to make sure YOUR professor's teaching style suits YOU. Same goes for any learning institution.

(2) Always check Blackboard Online, and your CSM WebCT. You'll know what those are once you are registered, but they are very helpful tools to keep you on track. If your Internet stops working one day, make sure you check them at school or somewhere else where you have access.

(3) Do not hesitate to email your professors or go to their office when you have questions. It's not embarrassing, and it's not bothersome. They are required to be in their office at some point in the day almost everyday for your convenience. Their hours are always on the syllabus they give you at the beginning of the course.

(4) Always have a copy of the syllabus. If you loose it, copy someone else's or ask for a new one. This goes hand-in-hand with #'s 2 and 3.

(5) Check your email, the weather closing hot line, or the school website for any indication that your class has been canceled. You don't want to drive all the way to school for nothing.

CSM really is a great school. Don't be disapointed if you end up going here and it wasn't your first choice. CSM helped me realize what I want to do with my life. It also allowed me one more year to realize what I want in a four-year college that I wouldn't have had if I had gone to a four-year school right out of high school.

Just remember that college is what you make it.

Do not be afraid to ask for help from peers and professors, because the chances are they will be willing to help you.