Azusa Pacific University Top Questions

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

Brian

If I had the ability to speak wisdom to my younger high school self, I would encourage him to live a genuine lifestyle. In high school I was afraid of being myself. I was afraid of being oppressed and ostricized for being who I was born to be. I was afraid of being ridiculed. This was counterintuitive on my part. Instead of being genuine, I oppressed myself. I ostricized myself. I ridiculed myself and lowered my self-esteem. I know now that had I been honest about who I was, I would have lived a more joyful life.

Johnathan

I would tell myself that every decision I make has a dramatic impact on my life. I would remind myself that life is short and to take advantage of every opportunity possiable. I would tell myself to stay humble and to know that nothing is possible without God in your life. If I fall down, get back up and know that every failure is a lesson learned. The most successful people failed a million times before they succeeded. Life is not easy and this knew journey of college will test your character but know that God is at your side ready to pick you up when you fall.

Jonathan

My high school self would hate me because i would have a lecture for him. I would tell him the perils of a lack of sleep, to jump on the opportunities to grow relationship, and to stop procrastinating. I would tell him not to worry about girls too much as there really isn't time. But finally, I would tell him to live. That there really is no feeling like living with the people that become your brothers, celebrating your successes together and mourning your failures together.

Madison

I would tell myself to stop stressing about what is going to happen in college. It's going to be really tough, the transition is going to push you emotionally, spiritually and physically but it's worth it. You will end in the place you are supposed to be and things are going to difficult but the beauty of college is in the journey. You get to decide what to do with what you are given, you can become the person you want to be or you can become a stressed out maniac. In college you find out who you want to be and realize that the things that mattered in high school don't really matter. Enjoy the process and the privealage that it is to get to go to college and learn and change and grow and become who and what you want to be. And know that all the trouble it is to get into college is totally worth it.

Daniel

Becoming involved is a very important thing after high school. Getting involved is how you ultimately make connections, which lead to career opportunities later in life. Have as much fun as possible while still keeping up with your studies. I also would tell myself that traveling is one of the most important things to do in life between high school and finding a career. You learn the most about who you really are while traveling, especially while traveling overseas. In addition to just traveling, study abroad in college. No mattter where you go, I gaurantee that you will not regret it because of all that you will learn about other cultures, and ultimately about yourself. Also, don't pay attention to what other peope think of you, as it will only have a negative impact on you. Don't try to have as many friends as possible, rather have few close friends who you know will always be by your side and support you when needed. College is a place to discover who you are and make a name for yourself, so don't be afraid to stand out in whatever it is that you are doing.

Katherine

As Winston Churchill said, " Success is not final, failure is not fatal, and it is the courage to continue that counts." College can be a life-changing experience, the flint to ignite your spark of individuality and success. I have had the privilege of watching so many people carve out their niche in life, a new path with new inventive strategies and experiences. However, college in itself is not a token to success. It is like everything else in life in that you get out of it what you put in. Being accepted to college is a triumph in itself, but it is by no means the end of the road, rather it is the beginning. If I could advise myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to go into college with courage, aspirations, and most importantly, self respect. College is a journey of discovering who you can be, not of who you have been. It has been the fresh start, the starting blocks that this once shy high school student, now junior in college, needed to launch into a brave new world of opportunity.

Kimberly

I would tell myself to not take a year off, go to a community college first to give you time to think about what you are really passionate about. Think about your options and what thrives you in life. Start saving money for when you transfer and apply for scholarships as much as you can. Also, do not get stressed over making decisions about what you will be majoring in and what school. Everything will fall in its place and everything will work out for your good. Take as many different classes so when you make your choice for a major you will know for sure what you want to do. Do not be afarid of mistakes because those are just blocks to help you reach your goal. Enjoy school, apply early and make sure all your papers and financial situation is taken care of. But above all enjoy this upcoming year because it will change your life.

Lyubov

I would tell myself to continue in my education through college and university, to get as high of a degree as possible in my major, and advise others to do the same.

Erin

I would say to relax, make the most of each day in college because it really is an amazing time in your life, and you may not get another chance to meet as many people at one time. I would also say to not stress about bad grades, or taking longer than 4 years to graduate. The amount of time you need to get your degree really does not have a big role in getting a job.

Isaac

I would tell myself to stop worrying about the transition to college. Yes, college is going to be a hard journey, but you can do it. Perhaps one of the biggest takeaways from college is going to be that everything is going to work out in the end. As long as you apply yourself to your work load, you can do it. Another thing to take note of is that you are going to need to just enjoy life. Stop betting against yourself and get out there and live your life. Focus on the friendships you are going to build and take some risks. You are going to be a difference maker, so stop seeing the small picture and focus on the larger reason you are going to college. Your time in college is going to leave an impact on the world, so live your life as if forever starts now. Never doubt that the work you are doing isn't making a change, because it is. Today is going to impact the rest of your life, so live everyday in that moment with your eyes on tomorrow. Oh, and one last thing: You got this!

Felicia

Don't be scared to ask questions. Be more confident in leadership positions.

Selena

The process seemed endless and I had no idea if this would work out well for me. Applying for college back in high school was a tedious commission and I was not excited to move on with the next chapter of my life. College seemed like a very pressuring and intimidating idea because I had no idea what would be in store for me and it would be one of the most biggest decisions that I would make in my life. I was uninterested with anything that had to do with the word "college" in the sentence. If I could go back to high school, I would tell myself that it's okay to be a little intimidated at first because it's like exploring uncharted waters, but I would also tell myself to get excited to move on and do something different with my life. There are so many other people who are experiencing the same thing as me, and so many people to experience it with. Looking back at it all, college was by far the best decision I have ever made in my life.

Stephanie

College is much harder than high school. The courses are more challenging, making new friendships is exhausting, eating alone is depressing, living in a 12x19 foot room with a complete stranger is stressful. Just when you think you've figured college out, you're sent home for Christmas, and when you return YOU START OVER. It's no wonder why nealy half of students drop out of college, or take a gap year, or two or three or five. But since you have to go to school because mom won't let you move back home, you have to endure. After freshman year, I've found that the solution to all of your impending problems can be eliminated with one simple word: Netlfix. Who needs friends when you can watch Friends? Why worry about your financial future when you can watch Breaking Bad?! So Stephanie, when you're stressed about an upcoming test, homesick for your family, worried about how much debt you are already in, or don't want to do any of the things a newly responsible, independent adult should be doing, watching some Netflix will ensure that you won't have to worry about any of it.

Kristina

First off, bring extra hangers. I don't know how, or why, but you will always fall short. Secondly, talk to everyone. Everyone you meet was not raised in the same place you were, and everyone you will meet knows something you don't know. Do things you aren't comfortable doing. Go rock climbing, go get cupcakes in Hollywood on a school night, and go to mexico on a missions trip, and give up your time to serve others. Know that you will lose touch with old friends, but its ok because you will make amazing new ones. Know that you will get way more sleep than in high school, but for some reason you will be more tired. Don't eat out a lot. Money goes so fast, and use your meal plan wisely. Skipping class every know and then won't kill you. Know that your health is far more important than one class period. Also don't be afraid to ask for help. Everyone is more than willing to help you out. Know I would tell you so much more, but my limit is 200, but overall; relax, you're going to love it.

Emma

I wanted to let you in on a few secrets about the transition into the college life at Azusa Pacific University. First off since you will move into your dorm a week before most freshman because of choir, I encourage you to make a few good friends during that week from your hall and from the choir, since these will be the people you will hang out with and go to for advice for the majority of your freshman year. Do not let the hype of wanting to meet every person possible ruin the friendships you have already formed. Also, try to get to know your roommate from the start as building a strong foundation for your friendship as roommates is crucial to having a freshman year with less drama. I also encourage you to plan right away how you can participate in a study abroad program. I did not plan early enough to have general education requirements saved for study abroad, so I could not go. Also, make friends with other math majors that are also freshman because they will be a helpful source as you will have the same classes with them throughout all four years.

Chelsea

"Don't limit yourself. Expand your horizon and search for new opportunities and challenges." As a high school senior, I thought that moving 3 hours from home was enough challenge for me. I only applied to conservative Christian schools that shared the values with which I was raised. I never thought of the possibility of moving further from home, travelling to new countries or even moving across this country. I stepped out of the safety and comfort of home, and moved a short distance to a new "safety". I was in a place where I seemingly belonged, due to my race, religion, and gender. I had to force myself to grow because the challenges did not present themselves naturally. I found opportunities outside of the school, investing my time in the neighboring communities as well as living abroad. Unfortunately, I cannot go back in time, but I can move forward. I decided to take on the exciting challenge of moving across the country to pursue graduate school. And I share my experiences with the high school students that I work with every day, hoping that they will expand their horizons and discover their full potential.

Chandler

I would tell myself to swallow my pride and apply for every scholarship I see or hear of. There is no way to pay for yourself for college if you have no money, so you need to find it somehow.

Britini

Hey love, Calm down! Don't stress out about the future. Don't hold on to the negitives in high school! It will all come to an end shortly. I know you are going through a brain injury, but I promise you that it will get better. Treatment will subside and you will be able to live life as a teenager again. Things will be altered in your life but, its for the better. I can not tell you how many people you have been able to help through your journey. I know it sucks being in pain everyday but, there is a good reason for it. APU is where you need to be, God is doing some incredible things here. I know what you are thinking, you have already moved 15 times, left your friends behind, and you dont want to start all over. Trust me, its worth it! Get involved, be the leader I know that you can be! There might be a few hiccups here and there but, nothing you can't handle. Go get em' girl! With Love, Yourself

Andrea

I would tell myself to really research the colleges and really think about getting loans and instead apply for scholorships. I would make sure I had a job to be able to start slowly paying my loans and help redude my dept. I would tell myself to prepare myself for the stress and the new coffee addiction you will gain for the sleepless nights. If I could go back in time I would try to get my parents more involved in my decisions and review the financial needs. I would change the way I did everything the first time and attened APU not FIDM where I could have gotten a better eduacation for less.

Cassie

Hey there! This is future Cassie! When you get to college, everything will change. Please try not to isolate yourself too much. Life will move on and get better. Just keep eating healthy and do lots of fun stuff! Life is so short! Use it wisely! All of your friends love you for your personality and not for your looks so just keep on keeping on and God will get you through. And most importantly, remember that He is always with you no matter what you think or what you go through. He loves you so much and He knows your heart. He has so many great plans for you! Your second year of college is going to be amazing! You're awesome so go change the world!

Melody

Going back to being a senoir in 1986/87, now in 20/20 hindsight, this is my advice to myself; "Melody, be more diligent in pursuing your career choices and pin-point your classes towards that career goal. It is imperative to get plugged into councelors and educators to help guild you towards a career goal. You and your parents need to get informed regarding finacial aid, grants, and scholarships before deciding on colleges. This information can help guild you towards making the right choice for the most affordable education. Paying for college is a complcated and lenthy process that you may not expect. Learning to write scholarship essays is a challenge but very important to apply for scholarships. If a class is available in your area, be certain to take advantage of it. It will be worth your time. Study for the ACT amd SAT tests. Those are very important to be accepted into college and can help you earn more grants and scholarships too. Reach out beyond your school events and clubs. Spend time helping your community. Choose a career goal, stick with it, work towards it, never give up.... plug and chug until you make it there!

Jake

I am a person who does not like change. Routines are very comfortable to me. I would advise myself to not worry about this new change in school and setting. College is an awesome opportunity that I should not fear. I would tell myself to be ready for all of the fun I would have and maybe give some of my homework answers to my past self. Of course, I would not cheat so I guess not. The biggest piece of advicei would give myself is to be open to making new friends and trying new things. You never know what great thing you might discover in that obscure adventure.

Ashley

Speaking to you, my past self: Don't worry. You'll definitely get into a University and boy, it's a great one. Although, a few things you could do now are just really focus on your studies because really that's the most important thing right now. Who cares about those boys, that time will come but right now focus on your future studies. Get the grades we need to make it, not to barely pass. Enjoy your life, your familly, your firends. Have fun, really live and enjoy every moment of this life. Getting into a community college is great, but don't linger there for too long. Really push yourself to do your best, you'll get to University! It'll be a bit difficult to transition in the beginning because you'll be dorming on campus and since you're so close to our family...but God has it all planned out for you already. He has opened doors no one can close. Be thankful and hopeful because God loves you and has a great plan for your future!

Nathaniel

“Come on man, get your act together. You know you are fully capable, but this whole ‘I don’t care about grades’ and ‘what good are grades in the real world?’ act is bull. Let me tell you something. You’re right. In the real world they don’t matter. All that matters is the degree, and you know what the degree depends on? Grades! Just an ounce more effort and they could be stellar. Just a little more care and you could be on top, man. Why not? There is nothing good about the high school night life. Pretty soon you’ll realize how petty all of this is. Pretty soon you’ll set your goals straight, and if you don’t have those grades up higher then you’ll just be burning bridges. You’ll have to settle for second rate schools, not the school of your dreams. You’ll have to compromise. You’re sacrificing right now so much that you just don’t realize. Do you really want to look back and think ‘what if?’ You don’t. You know how I know? Because that’s what I’m thinking right now.

Peter

I would advise myself to be more intentional about getting to know a few people on a deep level, so that you have close friends to talk through stuff with. Also, I would tell myself to make sure to build relationships with my professors becuase they have alot of wisdom to offer.

Dominique

The one thing that I wish I could tell myself five years ago, I even remind myself of now at age twenty. I remind myself to take a breath, everything will be okay. At fifteen, or even eighteen as I was when I graduated high school it seemed as if every day was the end of the world. I wish that I had known then that in just a few short years the friends I prided myself on having wouldn’t be there for me. That it was the truly deep things that mattered, and that I really did have the rest of my life ahead of me. I wish now that I had known back then not to beat myself up over what I couldn’t change, the mistakes I had already made. What was, is, and always will be important is to keep your head up and run full speed over what I could change, accomplish, and achieve. It’s not how you start, but how you finish that matters. If I have learned anything since high school, it’s that you finish strong, and you never stop fighting.

Theresa

Be ready to step outside of your comfort zone but also be ready to face who you are. Don't forget your roots but venture the unexplored. It is okay to be insecure and scared; everybody else is. You are going to be challenged and you are going to question a lot. I promise that you will meet others that have unique backgrounds and who think differently than you; these will become your greatest friends. Make friends. College isn't about hiding in the library whenever you are not in class. Six hours of sleep a night really is enough when it means you made good use of a day. The internet is distracting; avoid it if you want to feel good about yourself at the end of the day. You will fail and succeed and fail then succeed again. Don't give up. Ask your professors for help. Volunteer and make a stand for others. Lose yourself and your selfish ways. Get a job on campus. Be open, be free, and watch out for the freshman fifteen. It is real and defintely happened. There is no other time like this, so be grateful. Lastly, carpe diem. Seize the day.

Kara

If I could talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to choose my college very wisely. Before making my final decision, I would way out all the pros and cons of each school. I would see what extra curricular activities I could become involved in, and how the school would benefit me. I chose my school based on what was best for my major and the least expensive. However, I do not fit in the school environment. As a result, I find myself very unsocial, unhappy, and unmotivated. My only motivation is to get really good grades in order to transfer. Yes, finances and your major is a big component of choosing the best college, but ultimately if you do not fit in the school environment, you wil be unhappy. I never realized it, but your happiness is the most important thing. It will lead you to being motivated, positive, and successful in college. I really wish I realized this as a high school senior, because now trying to transfer is very difficult, and until then I just have to take it day by day, and make the most out of my situation.

Sophia

If I could travel back to my senior self I would definitely tell myself that picking a college is not as simple and as easy as I had thought. I would tell myself to not choose APU for I would immediately run into financial problems, for I would be paying for school on my own. Instead, I would urge myself into attending a more affordable college, one that i could commute to. Although I would'nt have a car I would be able to take the bus. I would also tell myself to keep in contact with friends from back home, for you always need a little friendliness going on outside of intense study sessions and work and worrying about finances. I would tell myself that it will definitely be hard but to push through and keep my head high.

Cody

If I could go back in time to prepare my high school self for college, there are several things I would tell her. I would let her know that bad grades don’t make you a failure. A “C” here or there should instead be taken as a learning experience, not an invitation to give up. I would tell her that she will meet so many new people. She needs to find people who lift her up, allow her to feel comfortable, and inspire her and invest in those relationships like crazy. Good friends are hard to come by, but she will not regret choosing a small group to know on a deeper level. I would let her know not to take herself too seriously, and that it is okay to change your mind regarding picking a major. Finally, I would tell her that she will undergo a huge transformation. Different events will shape her into the woman she was destined to be. Sometimes getting rocked to the core allows us to find our inner strength, and often times that is what we need to see that we capable of so much more than we imagined.

Kristopher

Be prepared for the years ahead. Just know that nothing is going to be handed to you. If you want something you must work hard for it. Start planning or mapping out what you want and where you want to be, because you do not want to be out in the world with no plan or agenda. If you plan out everything, set short term goals, and follow through, you will be alright. Also know that education is priority and you will not get far without it.

Rachel

If I could go back and talk to my high school self I would have told myself first to start applying to scholarships a lot sooner and also to make a huge effort to get a job. Your freshman year is very expensive because you are not used to having to pay for everything yourself so make sure you have some money saved up or have a job planned out. Second I would also tell myself to spend more time with my family because you don't relize how much they mean to you and how much you are going to miss them until you are actually gone. Third I would tell myself to not focus so much on high school friends and to focus more about school because once you graduate everyone sperates and starts a new life. Finially I would tell myself to try to take some community college classes or to take more AP test so that you do not have as many general ed classes that you have to take. I would then tell my self to enjoy high school and to enjoy being young but to still plan for the future.

Whitney

I believe it's important to know that you will most likely not meet all your close friends on your hall, become best friends with your roommate, and never have any drama. Living on a hall is great, and I was fortunate enough to get along with both my roommates very well and meet the majority of my girl friends on my hall, but I have heard horror stories from other girls on my hall and from other halls. It's better to come to college with no expectations, and to let things happen as they may. Also, don't be discouraged by not having a "posse" or go-to friend group within the first couple of weeks. As the year goes on, things will start falling into place more naturally. College is a huge growing experience, and coming in with certain expectations will probably leave you disappointed. No one's college experience is the same, and so let your story be it's own.

Whitney

I believe it's important to know that you will most likely not meet all your close friends on your hall, become best friends with your roommate, and never have any drama. Living on a hall is great, and I was fortunate enough to get along with both my roommates very well and meet the majority of my girl friends on my hall, but I have heard horror stories from other girls on my hall and from other halls. It's better to come to college with no expectations, and to let things happen as they may. Also, don't be discouraged by not having a "posse" or go-to friend group within the first couple of weeks. As the year goes on, things will start falling into place more naturally. College is a huge growing experience, and coming in with certain expectations will probably leave you disappointed. No one's college experience is the same, and so let your story be it's own.

Felicia

Be prepared for the challenging courses! Even though they are only freshman courses, you will struggle here and there. But do not worry, your professors are available for help! Get all your materials ready because some professors do start teaching on the first day of class. Don't get lazy and get sucked up to the social scene too much because its easy for you to fall behind on your courses. Most importantly, enjoy your freshman year!

Natalie

If I could tell myself something that would help prepare myself for my first year of college I would say: "Natalie, do not set up expectations because most likely things are going to be immensely different than you think; but you are going to grow in ways you never thought possible. Trust in the Lord because He is faithful and has a plan for your life. Find joy in all circumstances. Be open and ready to learn about yourself because this is going to be a really important time in your life when you will gain understanding in why God has made you the way you are. Do not be discouraged when you are in trials, but rather seek the Lord more than you ever have before because He will bring you through it and will open your eyes to new and amazing opportunities coming your way. Pray diligently for your sister because you are going to play a key role in her life your second semester as she gets ready to graduate college. Persevere and do not be afraid because you are going to be at APU for reason next year."

sandra

I would tell myself to take life more serious and really decide and focus on what I want to do in life. To not take my time for granted and to keep going regardless of what comes in life. To never stop and to help myself before I can help others.

Kierstan

Number one....READ, when the professor gives you the syllabus don't just take it and shove it in your desk, look at it highlight due dates and the reading schedule. Another thing, actually talk to your professors, they are probably your best bet for doing well in your classes. They are great resources and will help you, just don't be to proud to ask for help. Also, please, I'm begging you, do well in your classes so you won't be put on probabtion struggling to prove you belong in college. You are a good student keep it that way.

Alyssa

The decisions you have made in the past do not define who you are, they affect your life but they are not who you are. Everyone makes mistakes, but do not let them consume you and become who you are. I would also remind myself to really keep in touch with the people I love and miss because one day you might get a phone call saying that they are gone. I would remind myself to pray, because with God anything is possible. I would give myself a pep talk and tell myself to never give up or settle for anything. Lastly, I would remind myself to take a break every once in awhile and breathe.

Stephanie

The advice that I would give myself would be to not be discouraged by the new beginnings that are to come. One needs to learn how to learn in college. Expect variety and new things; have an open mind to college because it is not going to be the same as high school. Most college students become overwhelmed with school and building new relationships. When it comes to building new relationships, be patient because it is a different change trying to meet people after being used to the relationships that were already there in high school. Consider time management because there are many activities to distract yourself from. Therefore, manage your time so you can know what times are for studying and the times that you have free to replenish yourself. Ask for help when you need it because you do not want to go through college alone especially during the difficult times.

jamie

If I were to go back to high school knowing what I know now, I would definatly do things differently. I would make sure that homework was more of a priority and I would set the goal of going to college. College was not my goal as a senior in high school. both of my parents graduated high school, but did not go to college. They did not instill in my 3 siblings or myself, the desire to excell beyond high school. If I had done better in all 4 years of my high school education, I would have been more prepared to go to college and finish my degree at a younger age. Being almost 40 years old now, I have 2 children, a husband and a mortgage payment to make. Going to school for me is more challenging then it will be for my children that I am encouraging to go to college when they get out of high school. I hope to be a better example to my children then my parents were to me. Education is priority.

Kaleb

To apply myself more to my work and lay out a plan that would help me with the transition of high school to college. Listen more to the people that wanted to help me and just plain try harder.

Kiara

To seriously get to work on winning scholarships. Don't waste time when it comes to giving attention to the finances and the type of programs that cost money for school. Not be nervous about college and that God has it all under control. Also that APU will be a blast!

Taylor

Go into college with your eyes open and ready to take it all in. Your college experience is what you make it and the time you invest into people, class, and your environment will be what makes your college experience either good or bad. Be involved in as much as you can and don't worry about if people are going to think you're weird, because reality is everyone will either love you or hate you, but you have to be true to yourself and that's when you will find who your true friends are. They are the ones who see you doing the weirdest craziest things and love you all the same. Try new things and just go for it. Spend that extra hour talking with people on your hall and take that time to invest yourself into their lives, because making that extra effort will be what helps them survive this new environment and way of life. Love the ones your with, always forgive and never hold any grudges. If you can't learn to forgive then you will ultimately be held back from allowing yourself to be the best you that you can be.

Rawl

Set aside time to go to the library and take career tests providing information with what you are suited for and what your interests are. Do not set your mind on one college without exploring other possible colleges and universities and what they have to offer. Research and find scholarships and grants; money you do not have to pay back, which will keep you from being in student loan debt. In your first two years of college focus on general education requirements. Once you complete those you will have plenty of time to focus on your major.

Katharine

The advice that I would give myself would be to take advantage of the night classes that Big Bear High School offered. It would've saved me time, money, and had I done that I could've minored in something. I would also tell myself to not be afraid to put myself out there and take advantage of any oppotunity that came my way.

David

My college experience throughout the last four years has surpassed all expectations I had when I began and shaped who I am today. First of all, my university offered many volunteer opportunities which opened my eyes to the many needs of in our society. I was able to participate in many of those opportunities and serve my college community as well as my surrounding community. Secondly, by being involved in my community, I was shaped and developed as a leader. I learned many skills and values that will be a great asset when I begin my profession. Lastly, my university experience helped me discover my professional passion of becoming a social worker. My career goal is to be able to give back to the community by investing in the lives of youth as a program developer. I believe my university did an outstanding job in preparing me for post graduation. I have the knowledge and skills needed to make a significant impact in my surrounding community and to live a successful life. In addition, and most important to me, I formed many significant relationships peers that I expect to have as life long friends.

Jouli

The most important things that I have gained while attending college are self-discipline, being able to open my mind to new things, time management, and improved communication with others. The other things that I have gained from my college experience are how that being in college is powerful in influencing others to stay in school and achieve a college degree. The reasons that it is very valuable to attend college are that it helps the person to achieve his or her dreams in a certain career, and helps to make society stronger. The experience and value that a person gains from college helps the individual to figure out what he or she wants and expects from his or her life. The most beneficial thing from attending college is being able to have a career that the person loves, and a career that can financially support him or her.

May

In college, I've learned new techniques in arts and I've learned how to paint. These are vital knowledge to achieve my goal of becoming a successful artist. Taking the courses in college gave me a different experience than in high school; stricter attendance and more difficult classes. To me, this is important because it allows me to strive harder when I fail to do my best. I've also learned the importance saving up, budgeting and seeking alternative ways to pay for college. Being in college has taught me to really try in my education because unlike high school, if I fail, then valuable time and money would go to waste. In addition, college life has also opened up opportunity for me to meet new people. These people helped me grow and develop and become my support and inspiration. They also provided valueable helps and tips on classes and how to overcome the struggles of college life. Also, I learned manythings and obtained experiences that will assist me in the future of my carreer or in general, life. Lastly, it made me treasure the opportunity to attend it and enabled me to appreciate and seek help or guidance.

Arielle

My pursuit of college is not only to study clinical psychology and affect individuals, but also to set a positive example for my community and the mindset of my peers and generation. The difficulties I have faced consist of being able to find financial support and maintain it throughout my years of education, which will include Bachelor of Arts to Doctorate degrees in clinical psychology. Azusa has offered me a challenging yet successful academic education but also giving me opportunites to grow as a christian woman who is active in the community in which she lives through trips to rural parts of Mexico and tutoring under priveleged kids in the surrounding areas.