The classes are as hard or as easy as you make them. Yes, some subject materials are harder than others, but it’s really not that hard to get an A in your classes. More importantly, come into class with an open mind to the class and professor, despite what you may have read on ratemyprofessor.com. I am learning so much in my classes right now. The professors are great, and they know their subject materials. They are approachable and always accessible, either via email or face to face. But in the end, how much you learn comes down to your willingness to learn. Besides academics, you learn things such as time management. Sometimes, the best lessons come in self-discipline. I had to learn how to say no to a fun night out, and instead, stay in to study for an exam. I’ve also learned so much about people, an inevitable consequence of community-style living. I’ve learned how to do deal with people I can’t ignore or get away from. Each day is a learning experience.
Do you enjoy the experience at your school?
Honestly, I never wanted to go to SMU. Even after securing my spot in the class, I was dreading the day when I would have to go. I refused to even visit the campus until it was necessary. However, I am extremely glad that I am here. The campus is beautiful, and the people are amazing. There's a nice balance between academics and a social life. In my experience, the professors are easy to talk to, both inside and outside of class. The campus is in the heart of Dallas, so there’s always something to do at night, whether on or off campus. I know SMU has a reputation (Southern Millionaires University) of being full of snobby, rich children who were not good enough to get into Ivy League schools. While those people do exist, the majority of students are down to earth. It’s not hard to avoid people that you don’t want to be around. You’ll meet people from every status group and station of life while you’re here, and you will find your group where you belong. Like I said, I am thoroughly enjoying my time here. When I leave campus, I can’t wait to get back.
Do you feel you’re getting value for the money you’re spending on college?
Oh, the joys (horrors) of paying for a college education. There’s no doubt about it. Southern Methodist University is an expensive place to receive your education. However, they do make the financial burden a little easier to bear. They give out so many scholarships and grants to students. Financial cost was a big factor for me when I was deciding where to go. I never thought SMU would be a place to consider. My mind definitely changed when I received my financial aid package, and SMU was my cheapest option for college. I’m paying next to nothing, and I honestly don’t know anyone who is not on some form of financial aid. So, SMU definitely delivers considering its price tag. It’s a great experience, and there are so many opportunities for networking for future needs. Being so close to downtown Dallas, SMU provides many opportunities outside of the classroom for research, internships, and employment.
Do you have any tips for prospective students?
My advice to prospective students is to just come visit with an open mind. Forget about the stereotypes that you’ve heard. Forget about the cost. Just visit and experience SMU. As for your application, highlight your best moments or activities. Get involved, and be a leader. If you’re a senior who doesn’t have the highest grades or experience as a leader or didn’t stretch yourself thin to be in 500 clubs in high school, just express who you are in your application. Give the admissions counselors a reason to pick you over the thousands of other applicants. If possible, schedule an interview. You’ll have a chance to present yourself, face-to-face. You will cease to be another piece of paper, and they’ll be able to see who you are as a person and what you offer as a future Mustang.
Which types of students will excel at your college?
The school is great for those who are somewhat self-motivated. The professors aren’t going to hold your hand and walk you through the semester. You’ll have to be ready to jump right in and make it happen for yourself. It’s also great if you want a balance between academics and the social scene. You’ll have the best of both worlds.
The classes are as hard or as easy as you make them. Yes, some subject materials are harder than others, but it’s really not that hard to get an A in your classes. More importantly, come into class with an open mind to the class and professor, despite what you may have read on ratemyprofessor.com. I am learning so much in my classes right now. The professors are great, and they know their subject materials. They are approachable and always accessible, either via email or face to face. But in the end, how much you learn comes down to your willingness to learn. Besides academics, you learn things such as time management. Sometimes, the best lessons come in self-discipline. I had to learn how to say no to a fun night out, and instead, stay in to study for an exam. I’ve also learned so much about people, an inevitable consequence of community-style living. I’ve learned how to do deal with people I can’t ignore or get away from. Each day is a learning experience.
Honestly, I never wanted to go to SMU. Even after securing my spot in the class, I was dreading the day when I would have to go. I refused to even visit the campus until it was necessary. However, I am extremely glad that I am here. The campus is beautiful, and the people are amazing. There's a nice balance between academics and a social life. In my experience, the professors are easy to talk to, both inside and outside of class. The campus is in the heart of Dallas, so there’s always something to do at night, whether on or off campus. I know SMU has a reputation (Southern Millionaires University) of being full of snobby, rich children who were not good enough to get into Ivy League schools. While those people do exist, the majority of students are down to earth. It’s not hard to avoid people that you don’t want to be around. You’ll meet people from every status group and station of life while you’re here, and you will find your group where you belong. Like I said, I am thoroughly enjoying my time here. When I leave campus, I can’t wait to get back.
Oh, the joys (horrors) of paying for a college education. There’s no doubt about it. Southern Methodist University is an expensive place to receive your education. However, they do make the financial burden a little easier to bear. They give out so many scholarships and grants to students. Financial cost was a big factor for me when I was deciding where to go. I never thought SMU would be a place to consider. My mind definitely changed when I received my financial aid package, and SMU was my cheapest option for college. I’m paying next to nothing, and I honestly don’t know anyone who is not on some form of financial aid. So, SMU definitely delivers considering its price tag. It’s a great experience, and there are so many opportunities for networking for future needs. Being so close to downtown Dallas, SMU provides many opportunities outside of the classroom for research, internships, and employment.
My advice to prospective students is to just come visit with an open mind. Forget about the stereotypes that you’ve heard. Forget about the cost. Just visit and experience SMU. As for your application, highlight your best moments or activities. Get involved, and be a leader. If you’re a senior who doesn’t have the highest grades or experience as a leader or didn’t stretch yourself thin to be in 500 clubs in high school, just express who you are in your application. Give the admissions counselors a reason to pick you over the thousands of other applicants. If possible, schedule an interview. You’ll have a chance to present yourself, face-to-face. You will cease to be another piece of paper, and they’ll be able to see who you are as a person and what you offer as a future Mustang.
The school is great for those who are somewhat self-motivated. The professors aren’t going to hold your hand and walk you through the semester. You’ll have to be ready to jump right in and make it happen for yourself. It’s also great if you want a balance between academics and the social scene. You’ll have the best of both worlds.