Arizona State University-West Top Questions

What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

Austin

If I was talking to my past self from high school, I would probably try to slap some sense into me. It's not because I did bad in high school per say, but what I was not doing that could have helped me beyond belief. I should have been applying to scholarships and trying to get as much money to help my family with college out as possible. I should have been applying since freshman year. I would tell myself to kick it into high gear, and put an effort towards trying to get some scholarships. I was a selfish kid in high school, but college has taught me the errors of my past self. I dont see it as a weakness or a strength, but as an opportunity jump into really helping my family.

India

The advice I would give myself is to work hard in high school. A big tip is learning how to manage your time. If you get a job during college, you would need to manage your time for both school work and your job. School will take a lot of hard work especially studying. Your whole grade is made up of tests. In high school, your grade was mostly made up of homework and some tests, but in college there is little homework and more tests. Time management comes in hand when you have to study for tests. I would take advantage of advanced classes that are offered in high school, so it will help you prepare for college courses. Another tip is to learn how to study. Learn how to take notes where you understand it. Some professors won't write notes in college, so it would be great if you start learning how to take notes without notes given to you. The main tip I would suggest is to talk to your teachers. If you are confused about something, ask them to clarify. They are there to help you and talking to them will make a difference.

Jarely

The advice I’d give myself in high school is to do more research papers, this way I have more practice. At my high school they offered AP courses that would get you dual enrollment, I'd strongly would have recommended to enroll in those classes. By enrolling in these classes I'd get the high school credit needed and also college credit which would same me time. I'd also tell myself to stay in all the extracurricular activities I was in. To continue being student body President of the school and show everyone a good example. I’d also think that is wasn’t so important to have a job so I shouldn’t have gotten one towards the end of the year because that was time consuming. In college you have time to get a job if you really need it but its best not to get a job because being a fulltime student is hard work. You must study hard in high school so you’ll be prepared when you come to the university.

Corie

The most beneficial thing you can do for yourself within college is to engage in thoughtful discussions with your professors. Building these relationships with your intellectual superiors is extremely imporant when constructing your academic prowess and future career endeavors. Networking in this way really expands your horizons and enables you to have a friend in the area of expertise you are attempting to pursure. In order to get into the field you desire, many employers or institutions will ask for letters of reccomendation. With these significant relationships, the letters will be filled with kind words and raving reviews. This sort of action is what I wish I explored more within my undergraduate career because it would have made my transition into graduate school go more smoothly. Now that I know these crucial elements, I have put forth a great amount of effort in forming lasting relationships with my mentors.

korey

If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to apply to Arizona State as soon as I got the first email from them. Mostly because of finacial aid as well as scholarships, but because this is such a great place. Looking back on it now I cant believe I even considered going anywhere else. I would also apply for more scholarships to help pay for college,because thats a huge issue in todays society. Furthermore, I would tell myself to always be on top of important deadlines and due dates. Nothing is more frustrating than missing an important date, and then having to come out of pocket for it. Lastly I would tell myself to buy things for housing as I went along, buying it all the day before you leave is way too stressful.

Lauren

Miss. Lucero, First off, while you may be graduating a semester early it doesn't mean you are smarter than the world. You still need a college education. Getting married at 18 years old will not be enough. Sorry to say, but it didn't work out. You started college 2 years later as a single mom. In the last 8 years you have had another failed marriage, another child to raise alone, been struggling with your personal choices and have bounced between Community Colllege and ASU. You have exhausted your Pell Grants and Federal Loans while trying to get through school and survive. And while you have crossed into a wonderful sorority, you still feel down because you know you should have graduated college by now. So here I am to tell you that you have your whole life ahead of you. Education is one of the most important things. Make it a priority and experience all it has to offer. Yes, your chilldren are the light of your life but wouldn't you want to be raising them as you rise in your career instead of having them watch you struggle through school? Please, make a better choice.

Maryam

If I could go back in time and speak to myself as a high school senior, the advice that I would give myself would be to save up as much money as possible, apply for scholarships, and start studying for my MCATs. Students attending high school do not realize how easy and simple classes are until they reach University level courses. Today, I look back at my high school days and realize how easier my courses were and that I had a lot more free time on my hands. High School was the perfect time for me to begin applying for scholarships and to save up for my tuition and textbooks. It was also a terrific time for me to begin studying for the MCATs. It is never too early to begin studying for an importan exam that you will have to take in your future. The earlier the better.

Kelly

I would tell myself to not wait until my thirties to go back to school and start my journey towards my career however I would warn myself to take a couple years off to figure out and mature in life to truly know what I want to do for a career. I would also tell myself to be leary of academic advisors and financial advisors because although they appear to be educated, they sometimes lead you in the wrong direction and you end up spending money and valuable time on classes that are not necessary to meet requirements. I would also tell myself to enjoy life and to not take everything so seriously.

Rochelle

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior there is so much I would tell myself. The first thing I would make sure to tell myself is to read a lot more. Reading really helps expand the mind and helps you aquire so much more knowledge. I would also tell myself to not procrastinate. There are so many great oppurtunities for internships, scholarships, and other great things that I never took advantage of and once I thought to look into it, the oppertunity no longer existed. I wish that I would have taken the time to apply to school earlier and I would of put in more of an effort toward my classes, although I still did well. The last most important thing I would have told myself would have been to take my GRE my Junior year in college instead of waiting until the last minute.

Chelsee

To my younger self, do not worry about the future. The plans you have are not necessarily the best plans for you. Start every day with a deep breath and a smile. College is a different ball game. Sure, you won't be surrounded by the same friends you had through-out high school; that doesn't mean you can't make more. There will be heartbreak and struggles along the way, but don't let them weigh you down. Hold your head up high because there is something great along the way. Read your books, and study hard. You have everything it takes to succeed, just have faith in yourself. High school was just a small slice of your life. This is when you truly start living. Enjoy every minute and every person. You are in for a crazy ride.

Lauren

I would tell Lauren to apply to colleges during her senior year. I would tell her that she would be taking math, english and reading placement tests so that she knows ahead of time to take them while the subjects are fresh in her memory. I would advise her to go speak to a college counselor at the college she plans to attend, prior to registration date to recieve guidance and assurance in her declared/undeclared major. This would build a strong foundation for her to build on, and while she is working her way through classes she might come to find her major. I would encourage her to do an educational plan with a college counselor to help map out her classes so she wouldn't take unnecessary classes. I would also encourage her to get involved in her senior year; like in clubs or volunteer work. This would help push her to stay involved when she gets to college, because she has experienced it via high school. I would tell her to apply for governor's waiver and financial aid early in her 2007 graduate year so she can recieve money by the time she gets to college.

Adrian

try your best. Dont settle for a 3.0 GPA. your Gpa is very important so take care of it by doing your work in every class. Oh just because your a senior does not mean you can mess around. Senior year can determine if you are elgible for aa University. Dont settle for a "B" fight for that "A". Yes its work but at the end trust me it is All worth it. Dont srew around going on to some parties, study first then you can party. there is time for everything Sports! Girlfriend! Party! but first you have to get your school work done. if only i would've had some advice like this.

Alyssa

I wish this were a viable option. If I could go back and talk to myself I would let me know how many more options there were than just the three major universities in Arizona. I would let myself know to start scholarship searching sooner, and to have a job in high school to save up some money. I would tell myself to know my major now instead of switching it like I did. I would tell myself not to take worthless credits so I could be done with school sooner. I would have been a lot better off if I knew then what I know now. Hindsight is 20/20.

Amanda

Hello Amanda. First let me start by saying you have a knack for working with young people and an ear for listening. Don't dismiss these gifts, because they are just that, gifts! Before you decide to go to the Army talk with those caring adults around you, like Mrs. Gulick. I'm sure Mrs. Gulick can tell you what some of your strengths are. You don't have to go to the Army just because don't know what you want to do with your life. Go to a community college and start taking your general classes. You already have great study habits, all you have to do is apply them to your college classes. Make an appointment with an advisor right away, don't procrastinate! Lastly, look for other adults who went to college and ask if they could mentor you and keep you accountable. Choose your study group wisely; only select students who have the same goal as you! (BTW: That goal should be to get an A!) This way, you will have a strong support system and you will succeed! Please know that the only dumb question is the one not asked!

Arilene

The advice that I will give myself will be to not loose focus. Another thing I will advice myself will be to have a set plan and know that you are not alone in trying to complete your goal. Life is not easy, but with a great education you sure will make it smoother. I will advise myself to seek help when you need it and do not assume people will not help you. Organization is a must when it comes to finishing college. Yet, to never stop having fun, but to not forget the goal that you have set for your self. Transitions are never easy, but choosing the right campus and career will always help the transition seem seeming less.

Steven

Apply for scholarships/grants like crazy. College is terribly expensive and you won't be able to pay for it all by yourself. Your high school teachers are not adequately prepping you for the college experience no matter what they tell you. Don't stress out too much. College is a huge step up from high school, but it doesn't have to be as over whelming as everyone makes it seems. Lastly, try to have fun. College is supposed to be an awesome experience. Don't keep your nose in those text books too much... but don't slack off either.

Tarryn

At Arizona State University on the West Campus, I have learned a great deal about myself as well as the people I work with. The past year and a half that I have attended this school I have discovered more about myself in terms of what I hope to succeed as well as how I manage my school work, work, and social life with friends and family. I have found a great desire to learn about the human body and want to help those in need with the knowledge I am gaining. At this point in time, I have learned that I am interested in becoming a pediatrician who specializes in cardiology. As a person, I have grown more mature in the sense that I am now more responsible for paying bills, completing my homework in a timely manner, and making time for myself as well as my friends and family. Attending college has helped me grow and learn how to work hard and to balance other parts of my life. I have also learned that there is no easy way out when wanting to pass classes, I am always required to work and study very hard for my classes.

Willie

I have learned valuable material in college, both in and out of the classroom, that I use in every day life. The classroom material is what makes me marketable, eligible, and qualified for employment in my field. Outside of the classroom I have learned how to socialize, volunteer, recruit, and participate in organizations on all levels. It has broadened my persepective of the world because I've been able to meet people various other countries. Attending college has been valuable to me because it allowed me to grow and have a diverse realm of experiences that I would not have had otherwise; and I am no where near complete so many new experiences lie ahead!

Thao

There's a strong sense of independence. High school was a blur. I managed to get all As but it is nothing like that in college. I overestimated myself and am still grasping the fact that is up to me to succeed. Things aren't as easy as it used to be and you have to understand that and fly past that. College is a time for you, and I think it's unlikely you'll get a chance to have as much opportunity find yourself. I have been coddled by a well-meaning family, who thought I wouldn't understand the world, and by a wonderful boyfriend, who still takes care of me. In the classroom, learning and taking the exams, it's just me. My college experienced has been me finding myself and putting my success as my own personal responsibility.

Kimberly

My post high school education career has all occurred via night classes, this made making friends and participating in extra cirricular activities very difficult because I worked full time during the day. It also made it hard to connect with professors to discuss assignments and/or reading. My current school, Phoenix School of Law, caters to both the day and night program, which as been very valuable. I can not only participate in student organizations, but I am able to seek out professors even though I am a night student. This gives me a feeling of loyalty for the school and makes me try to achieve the most that I can. I have been able to experience the secondary education experience and it has been wonderful. I feel very fortunate to be able to be a part of this great school. The education I am receiving is making it possible for me to be able to know how to practice the law once I graduate because they teach theory and practical skills. The combination of the two gives the students at our school an edge, which is a priceless comodity.

Melissa

Aside from a quality education, it has been of great value to attend Arizona State University at the West Campus because I have come to appreciate the life-long value of a four-year degree! Coursework studies have prepared me to competently step out into the job arena (upon completion of said degree) which will be of immense benefit to my future employer.

Jason

I have learned how to focus my attention more towards the rewards of my work and not so much the amount of work. College to me is a completely different experience then high school. For example I feel a greater connection with my teachers and not so much pressure to hurry up and learn the material. Im glad I decided to attend college cause nobody else in my family has attended any schooling past high school so for me to graduate would be a great accomplishment. I also have been affected greatly by the recession and lost my job so I decided further training would increase my chances of finding the career that ive always wanted. With this being said I intend to reach for my goals and not stop trying until I have successfully reached each one of them.

adrienne

the people you meet you learn more about cultures and lifestyles and new and upcoming trends, i feel that iam in touch with the world and learning new things.

Kay

I had always received good grades in high school and the school work came easily to me. I never studied or prepared for tests and I rarely, if ever, turned in any homework. Despite all of this, my grades were always exceedingly good. When I got to college, I thought that the same level of non effort would get me through but I was quickly proven wrong. I learned in college that my grades are a direct reflection of the effort I put into the class. It is not our professor?s job to hold our hand through our assignments and make sure we understand the curriculum; rather it is our job as students to ensure that our grade in the class is what we want. Hard work and perseverance does indeed pay off not only in school but as well as in life. Because of my dedication to my studies, I have become a more well rounded as a person and able to dedicate my entire self to the task at hand, whether it be school, work, family, or anything else. College has taught me how to be the best person I can be and I am forever grateful.

Deborah

College has been a life changing experience. I am the first person in my family to graduate with a college degree. I hope to pass the extensive knowledge and passion on for learning onto my children. Currently, I am working on my master's degree in psychology. My intent is to give the gift of passion for learning to others through teaching. When I first attended college, I did not realize how much I would use this knowlege throughout my life. My courses have taught to research, critique and make sound judgements that I feel I would not have made if I had not attended college. Life is not all about a single direction or full of obstacles but life is full of many paths and various choices.

Sophia

As the daughter of a poor immigrant to this country with no college education herself, I often heard my mother say ?go to school and get an education? but never, did I hear how. The process can be overwhelming for someone with no tools, knowledge or family support. I have never thought of myself as deprived, but the truth is, I was very ill prepared to attend college immediately after high school. In fact, not until I prepared my own daughter to attend college did I really do the researched, and the necessary work, to fully understand the process. School wisdom has taken a marriage, two daughters and twenty years to develop, but I was determined to do for my kids, what my mother failed to do for me. In some way, I have lived vicariously through my children. I realize, I can?t do that forever, there is no reason why their college experience should be mine too. Now more than ever, I feel I can finish the task I started so many years ago. I have the tools, the understanding and even more importantly the desire and the confidence to succeed.

TeAira

I would remind myself of the significance of an education and to appreciate it by working hard and to persevere through the tough classes that consume much of my time. I would also tell myself to fill out more scholarship applications, so that financial burdens would not negatively affect me in my college career. I would also inform myself to have fun in the different high school activities offered. I would encourage myself to help others that have more trouble with applying themselves academically so that they realize their potential. I would tell myself to visit more colleges in order fully understand and know what is offered and what is necessary to succeed at that school. I would tell myself to ask for advice from experienced adults or financial advisors on how to manage my finances on a low budget in order to learn to save. I would tell myself to enjoy high school and the amount of freedom it offers compared to college and its heavy workload.

Stephanie

During my high school senior year I slacked alot in applying for universities and for scholarship, therefore, an advice I would give myself is mainly to apply for scholarships early and also to have an idea of what college I really did want to go to. Even though, I ended up getting really good grades in my senior year, I knew plenty of students who started giving up during their last months of school.For that reason, keeping up with my classes in college would be another advice. Even if it is the last month of school grades are still being made and counting for a GPA score.The main advice I would give is DO NOT PROCRASTINATE. In college procrastination is no excuse since most of the work is turn in online at a center time. Also study at least a week before the exam is actually given. Studying the night before in college does not work, well it never does. Preparing for the SAT score is also a good advice because I could have gotten a scholarship with a high SAT score.

Jill

School is extremely important and securing a good education is one of the best things you can do for yourself and for your future. Only having a diploma from high school does not mean you will get a job. Education is more important than anything else you will need or obtain in life. Having an education not only teaches you to think outside of the box but will give you the many different skills needed in order to problem solve the many diverse situations you will encounter in life. Had I stuck to my plan and not strayed from my own convictions and sense of right and wrong, I would have finished my education a long time ago and not waited until I was 40 to finish my degree. As much as I enjoy attending school and working hard for what I know will be a great reward at the end, I believe that the full experience of being an on campus student, being involved in activities with students my own age would have been experiences I would have treasured throughout my life. Better late than never, I agree, but sooner rather than later is much better.

Jeff

If I was able to go back and give myself some advice, it would be to not sweat the small things. There is a lot of time that is wasted in worrying about issues that are outside of your control. Stressing about them decreases productivity. Also I would tell myself to be persistent in extracurricular activities and in pursuing entrepreneurial ventures.

Joseph

If I knew what I knew today and could talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to find many scholarships to pay for college. College is over priced and is just another business. You have to pay to park, over priced text books and many class fees. I would tell my younger self that college life is about reading books and writing essays. I would encourage myself to read many more books during high school and I would take writing work shops. If you can read and write well, nothing in college can stop you. I would also tell myself to find mentors and to obtain as many internships as possible. I would explain how important it is to network and build up my contact list. Last but not least I would tell myself to learn little of alot rather than alot of a little.

aidee

Assuming that I could go back in time and give myself and advice concerning college life I would definitely have said to myself, ?play sports, tennis and volleyball, as much as you can?. I would have said that because now I regret not being able to hold a racket as much as I could have while in high school. Considering that sports were my life now it is disappointing that my school campus does not have a tennis court where I can play with someone since I don?t have a car.

Jesus

Enjoy! Jesus, enjoy your time in high school. Those are the times you will remember forever. Please be friend with all of your classmates and give your best to learn more from your teachers. Ask professors for advice on what you could do so that college becomes easier. First of all, you should definitely apply for that National Honor Society. I cannot believe you will miss that opportunity just because of lack of information. Yes, I know you are in the soccer team and that is a very important part of your life in this moment; however, this activity should not prevent you from joining other clubs and school activities. I know you attend a high school in which ninety-five percent of the students speak Spanish but anyway you should practice your English the most that you can. No matter what you decide to do, enjoy your time with your family. You will be far away from home for the first time and you will surely miss your mother's reprehensions, your father's punishments and even your siblings' pranks. This is your year, be happy and do not let anything ruin it.

Jason

College is easier than what you would think. Its not exactly that "hard". Its as hard as you would make it. Don't be scared and embrace college. Its a great experience. Be prepared, there are some differences, but not ground breaking. You have total freedom of what you want to do. Go to class, do homework, attend clubs. They are all your choice. No one is going to suggest or force you to do anything. As a double edge blade, they won't remind you as well. Freedom is at your grasp and you will make tons of choices that will break or make you. Enjoy this sudden freedom and flexibility; its a blessing. Its just like high school, but without a schedule or homework. A look into a college student's daily life? Go to class, study for a test, meet friends, volunteer for a club. Sum it up, freedom at your tips. A last note, studying and your personal life may bog you down, but remember this golden rule, have some fun.

Amber

There is only one thing that I would have changed going in to college. In high school I never studied, everything was just so easy, there was no need to actually try. Once I hit college it was a huge wake-up call. Putting in the work and effort in college is a huge factor in how you do. Studying long, hard, and continuously is the biggest piece of advice I would offer to any high school student transitioning into college.

Ashley

I would tell myself to prepare better and work harder because going into the first semester of freshman year. I would also tell myself to apply for more scholarships because I am now struggling to pay for all of my classes, books, transportation and school supplies.

Alexander

If i were to go back in time and talk to myself, I would slap myself in the face and tell my past self to get my act together and stop goofing around. I would tell myself to do at least two to three scholarships a day. I would then instruct myself to find a part-time job some place, anywhere, Fry's; Safeway; or where ever. Also, i will tell myself to get more involved with the school, and the community.

Maria

In high school I was constantly stressed about not having enough money to make it through college. I would go back and tell myself to not stress it so much, because where there is a will there is a way and I definitely had enough will to make it happen. I was also worried about not having anyone to go to for help because I was the first one in my family to ever graduate high school and go to college. I would tell myself that there are many many wonderful people in this world who are there and who are willing to help and that no matter what the problem is, your not alone. I would also tell myself to not get so caught up with worrying about not being smart enough to pass all my classes because if I were to struggle with a class, my university has many resources available to students when they are struggling with a class. I was also worried about the change of living at home to living on campus. I would tell myself that at first it will be difficult because it is a big change, but change isn't always bad!

Mikaela

If I could go back in time and give myself advice about college life and making the transition I would tell myself about choosing a minor, talking to counselors, and how to study for exams. While completing my major, I learned that I could complete a minor and still graduate at the same time. Now that's is what I call getting the most bang for your buck! Not to mention another item to put on a resume. I would also mention that taking time to talk to counselors not only benefits you in the long run so that you can graduate on time, but they can help you find support during tough times as well as job opportunities in your field of interest. Lastly, I would tell myself to not cram for exams. Studying ahead of time and going over notes nightly keeps you on top of your material and ready for any pop quiz.

Lara

Study more in high school. The better your grades the easier it is for you later on. And do not take off a year, go right a way to college, it is the best thing to do and the only thing that will get you what you want in your future.

Erik

I would tell myself not to give up and to focus more on my schoolwork even though it would be my last year in high school.

Sara

If I were to know then what I know now I would have been better prepared to know what programs and classes that I would take to complete my degree without the run-around of flip flopping between degrees. That I feel is something that happens to alot of new students and it's hard at the time to really know what is your passion before you actually take that first step and try new and different things.

Matthew

Find a campus that is academically minded and not a party school. That is why the ASU at the West campus was right for me. A good campus life is also a great thing that will allow you to gain a lot of friends. Moreover, if you are able to find a campus with faculty that are available to help you out is a extremely helpful thing during your years at the University.

Christina

One of the most important aspects of the college experience is the advisors. They will help you determine the direction best suited for your interests and the type of degree you want to persue. Also, you should make sure there is a good selection of classes, not only for scheduling purposes, but to experience a variety of topics. Sometimes you don't realize that you would like or dislike a certain topic or class until you've been enrolled in one. Finding an interest in something previously unknown can change your whole direction, interests and sometimes even your degree.

Brian

I think the best advice I have for both students and parents in regards to finding the right college would be to do your research. If the student is sure about what they plan to do with their degree then make sure the schools you are applying to have the appropriate classes to meet your needs. Once in college I recommend that students take advantage of the extracurricular activities and clubs offer on campus. I went back to school at the age of 26 and I thought I would be out of place but a good campus will cater to different needs. I have served as vice president of Psi Chi for the last year and it has been an exciting time for me. If you have the opportunity to attended school sponsored events I would highly recommend attending them and getting involved in them. Also starting preparing for graduate school early and know what you need to do to get into competitive programs. Asking questions and finding options are two things new students will have to learn to do and if you go in with those tools then you are two steps ahead of everyone else.

Daniel

If money is a major deciding factor, stay in state.

Kelsee

Every student needs inspiration and support and my family provided that for me and I hope other students can be as fortunate as I was to have their family stick by them through thick and thin of their college experience. If you have a passion to learn about something then do it! Do not let outside influences intimidate you to change your mind. Life is what you make of it and the possibilites are endless! Keep your head up no matter what happens and always be optamistic! YOU CAN ACCOMPLISH ANYTHING IF YOU STAY FOCUSED AND BELIEVE IN YOURSELF! :)

Christopher

Different colleges provide different oppurtunites. Some of these oppurtunities include specific programs of study, location, internship possibilites and etc; the list is far too long to complete. A future college student should focus more what he wants from college and create goals for himself. A person should not attend college if only his parents want him too, or if he thinks he has to. It should be a choice with direction and purpose, because going to college without focus is a waste of time and money. As far as choosing the right college, some are better than others, some will have more career oppurtunities because of their names, but the success of the student is completely in his control, no matter the college he attends. A future college student should spend more time focusing on his goals, than focusing on the "right" college, because there is no such thing as the absolutely correct college for him. Work hard, study hard, remain goal oriented, and all career goals will be possible.

Monica

Pick the college that calls out to you. Go with your instincts but also consider the reality of costs. College marks the beginning of a new journey for you. Take advantage of opportunities that will present themselves. Get involved. Prove to yourself that you are fully capable of new talents and abilities. There are specific colleges that are just right for some people and being able to find that special one as early as possible is wonderful. This allows you enough time to prepare the move. Sometimes the college just for you is miles away from family and friends. Don't let that hinder you from persuing your passion. I'm not letting that stop me. I'm willing to make an ambitious move to city thousands of miles away. I don't know anyone there and I certainly don't have much money. But with my strong willpower and positive attitude, I am going to make it work out. And I feel that anyone who is willing to sacrifice to gain education, the result will be extremely rewarding and the experience will build a well-rounded character.

Taylor-Brooke

I think the best advice I can give is to be open to all the different options of colleges out there. There is one that you may not think is right for you but check it out and you may discovery that you really do love it. So go and see as many as you can. Also, parents don't limit you childs college choice because you want them closer or are afraid to let them go. They will do find and have an amazing college experience if you let them.