Brooks Institute Top Questions

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

Ashleigh

If I were to go back and tell my high school self one thing it would be that boys are not worth the heartache. I remember in highschool putting too much time into having a boyfriend. I learned so much more about myself and my values as a person when I was not dating someone. I realized that life is so valuable and precious. I wish I would have not wasted so much of my time being upset that my boyfriend broke up with me. It was really not worth it. I would tell myself that no matter what everything will be ok, and that time stops for no one. So stop worrying about a boy that broke up with you and start living and being an amazing independant woman. You will learn so much more about who you are and not who people tell you you are.

Sara

Take general education classes at a community college and save up enough money to live on your own. Apply for hundreds of scholarships, you're funding your own education! It can get expensive. GPA isn't everything; make sure you thoroughly understand all of the material you're being taught. Go into this new experience with an open heart and a solid mind. Enjoy what youthful experiences you may have now, because you're on the road to responsibility. Being an adult is tough, but very rewarding. You'll do wonderfully with the right mindset.

Jeyla

Learn to cook! I know you hate it, but is going to be really useful when you live alone. Don't date anyone before graduating, is causing a lot of troubles to my friends. Continue writing all your ideas for stories, you will need them to write scripts. Watch as many movies as you can, so in college you can have more culture. Keep enjoying every day, once you move one, you will never go back. Listen to as many advise as you can, but chose which one you are going to follow.

Atarah

Save money now.

Courtney

If I could go back I would tell myself to apply for more scholarships because now that I am in college I actually can see how much everything cost. When I was in high school I always thought I would have a job that would pay enough to keep me out of debt and I didn’t know I would have to spend close to a thousand dollars on all my books each semester. Now I have to make time in my busy schedule to apply for scholarship so that I can have more help paying for my school.

Nathan

The advice that I would give to my high school senior self would be to be prepared for anything and know that everything will work out for the better. When I came to Brooks Institute I was an extremely late addition. I had just applied on a Friday and school started that Tuesday. I told my family and friends what I was doing, I quit my job and I went down to Southern California with nothing but my clothes and camera gear packed into my car. When I got to Ventura I didn't have a place to stay, didn't have any friends and had to fend for myself. I slept on peoples' couches and stayed in hotel rooms all while going to school full time and trying to find a permanant residence. But now here I am 4 months later, I have great friends, a great place to stay and I am in love with my classes and I am doing very well in all of them. While I was sitting and stressing out over what to do with my life in high school, I should have been just trying new things and buckled up for the ride.

Daisy

If I could talk to myself as a high school senior I would emphasize on the importance of attending college straight out of high school. Unfortunately, I was not able to begin college after high school because of family problems. I would tell my high school self to try and overcome the obstacles that are going to be placed in their path after high school. I would also tell myself that I am smart enough to go to any college and to study for the entry exams.

Samantha

I definitely would've warned myself not to stay in community college for so long. Right out of high school I went to the local community college and stayed there for 4 years. After that time I was close to completing the courses for my AA in music, but decided it wasn't for me after all. I took a year off of school and tried to decide what my next move was. As late as I feel I'm starting my education, I am glad I found the Brooks Institute now rather than any later.

Sarai

I would tell myself to take as many classes that relate to what I want to study in college. I would also tell myself to take college classes if possible to get ahead on my college credits. As well as to try as hard as I could to learn and retain as much as possible. To not take the easy way out but instead to push myself as hard as I could mentally.

Tanika

Hard work and time management is essential to sucess in life as well as school. The only person who can stop you from being successful and achieving your career goals is one self. If you constantly strive for your own personal perfection and never stop improving you can attain true greatness.

Tayva

I would go back in time and encourage my high school self to apply for scholarships earlier than I actually did. I would encorage extreme focus and determination. As a senior, getting caught up in social life can be a big barrier. I would tell myself as a senior, to keep my eyes on the prize, and stay completely aware of my goals. Another big thing is that in high school, everyone has a title or a label. Starting a fresh school, with all new people and a higher level of maturity is very comforting. So no matter how awkward, popular, boring, or quirky you were in high school, in college you consume a whole new identity. You become an individual, and are ultimately treated with a different level of respect. You begin to feel a sense of adulthood, maturity, and freedom which is an amazing feeling and it's definitely something that I would've loved to know as a high school senior.

tiffany

If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to work hard and pay more attention ! I was so ready to just get out of high school and be an adult and was not focused on my studies. Well now Im 28 and a single mom struggling to make it. I would tell myself to study harder not focus on boys but homework. I would take more classes that prepared me for college . I just took an accuplacer test to enroll into college and I did not do very good in the math section of it and now I have to take a class that prepares me for college algebra. I have wasted alot of time and wish I would have focused on school before I had kids so I didnt have to manage kids,work, and school. If I would have planned out better I would have been finished with school and now working as dental hygentist having a more stable life for my kids .

Elias

This is my fourth year in college. I have been to four schools all in different cities. This is largely based on the fact that I did not do my homework and plan for the college I wanted to attend after graduating high school. If I could go back and tell my senior year self any sort of advice it would be to put the research in and find a school that fits me so that hopefully I would get it right the first time. I have no regrets with my route through my college life however the craziness of moving from four different cities in four years took a real toll on my college career. I finally found a home at the Brooks Institute. I have always been a strong believer in thing happening for a reason if you put in the work for what makes you happy. However, I am now a believer in strong life planning to avoid the situation I find myself in now. So the one thing I would tell myself in high school would be to do the research and find a school hat you fall in love with.

Chelsea

Well Chelsea, I've got a lot to say, so listen up, and listen closely. Whether you can believe it or not, you will move out of Littleton, Colorado and into Santa Barbara, California, and yes it is as beautiful as everyone says. The transition will be hard, and it's going to test you, but in the end you won't think a thing of it simply because of every experience you will have while you're here. The people you are going to meet will change your life in the most positive way possible, and you won't be able to help but love them. School is tough, but try not to listen to everyone who says it will run you down into the ground because after all... This too shall pass. When you doubt your potential to be successful because school is overbearing and "too stressful...You just can't handle it," remember that you absolutely can and will do it. You're going to laugh, love, cry, yell, learn, fall down, and rise back up higher than before. Your entire life is in front of you, embrace every second wholeheartidly.

Ronni

High school doesn’t tell you who you are or who you’re going to be. The pressure of parents, friends, and reputation taint the desire of we want to be and replace it with the idea of what we think others want us to be. College is where people are meant to find themselves free of negative pressure. If I could talk to me high school self or what I wish someone would have told me is how much more opportunity awaits us when we graduate high school. When we move on into the real world there’s freedom, something we couldn’t taste as minors. The freedom to make yourself into the person you are going to be. I would have made better decisions in high school if I realized that it doesn’t matter what people wanted me to be. I just wish there were people who told me to follow my heart because that’s exactly what I would tell my high school self. “Follow your heart”. We can only find ourselves if we are free of pressure from the outside world because it matters more how we value ourselves than how others value us.

Elizabeth

If I had the opportunity to go back and talk to myself, two years ago, what would I say? "Elizabeth", I would begin, "Stop overthinking everything. I know you're excited to leave home, and experience new things, but cherish the time you have here, before you go. I know you're scared, too, but it'll be okay. College is awesome! You're going to grow as a person, and an artist. I won't lie, it's hard. You're going to live with some awful people before you find your true friends. It'll be a struggle to adjust to classes and an eight-week schedule, but we'll switch to semesters eventually (which are even more insane). Adjusting from Pennsylvania to California living is...weird, but you'll get used to it, promise. You'll sleep very little and learn more than you think can fit in your head. The memories you'll make, the people you'll meet, it's an experience like you've never had before. But, don't rush it. Cherish each moment, both before you leave and after you get here. It's a brand new chapter, and you're ready.

Evon

If i went back in time and talked to myself as a senior in high school, there is a lot of adive I would give myself. I did not know what I know now about to attend my first year in college. I wouldn't talk to myself in a mad tone but a more helping tone so I know that i'm there to help. I would explain the amount of money college classes cost. To start applying for scholarships now and not to wait. In high school I spent my college savings on a truck because I didn't think I was ever going to attend college, I was ready to be done with school. My college savings would have paid college off, I would encourage myself to keep that money for college. You won't be in debt when its time to pay back your loans. Attending college and graduating with an accounting degree, you will be able to get a good paying job and be able to buy a truck in no time. So just wait a couple more years and you will have the truck and career you want.

Regina

If I were able to go back in time and talk to myself in high school, I would definitely have told myself to try and save up as much money as possible to help pay for school. It's a struggle to stay in school because of how expensive it is and how much equipment we have to buy every semester. In the end I know it'll all be worth it because this is what I love to do and I'm proud to be doing it. I would definitely tell myself to work as hard as possible with saving money to help pay for rent, equipment, and school in college, because that's definitely the one thing that I struggle with now. Other than that, I think I chose a very good school to go to, especially since I love doing what I'm doing and that I'm happy doing it!

Christopher

If I were to go back to my Senior year, i would tell myself to be more serious and to not goof around so much. i would say that its better to have the best grades that you can have and to study more. I would tell myself that its important to always do the best you can, but to be timely about it.

Yanninia

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a High School Senior I honestly don't know what I'd say. It's only been a year. I never expected to grow, or to learn as much as I have. But I have no regrets. I left not knowing what to expect. I grew up in a small town, moved to a big city. Never worked for anyone other then my mother, and had $2, 000 in my pocket. No car, not even a license. I just wanted this more then anything: to be on my own, to be free, to do what I love I never once considered I might fail. I almost did., 8 month passed and I was down to 20 dollars, before I found my first job. I've made mistakes: taken rides from strangers, bought my first taser as a result, meet some crazy people, and some how I'm still here. I'm not out of the woods yet, but I'm getting there. So I don't know what I'd say to myself back then. We're two different people, and I wouldn't have listened anyways.

Kichina

What I would go back in time and tell my high school self about college life and making the transition is to save as much money as possible. To appreciate your high school teachers; for college professors could care less about you truning in a paper. Be ready to choose between paying for lunch or gas in your car. College is not a party this will determine who you'll be in the next decade lay a strong foundation.

elizabeth

I would tell myself to do as much research as possible. Even if the school I'm looking at seems pointless its worth looking into to determine what you don't want in a school. This would have been a great assistance to me. I would have been able to instantly begin working on a dregree I could get a job with right out of school. Since I didn't do this research, I had spent my first year trying to decide what I wanted to do and my second year trying to figure out how to begin doing it. This was much more difficult to do in college with a job since I didn't have nearly as much time as I had had in high school. Overall I think that that would have been my best advice to give myself.

michelle

My immediate reaction is to advise my past self to apply directly to Brooks , however I know that this advice would be remiss. My initial path led from high school directly to a Liberal Arts college. I learned a great deal and enjoyed my studies, but I could not seem to find my niche. After two years, unsure of which major to declare, I elected to take a leave of absence until I was certain of my career path. While I initially intended for this to be a short break, I needed longer than I anticipated to find my direction. Six years later, I embark once again upon the path to higher education. This time with determination in my mind and certainty in my heart which I have never felt before. I know I am where I need to be. Although it is tempting to inform my past self of this eventuality, I know it would do no good. The experiences I have had along the way have led me here, and without them my 'past-self' would be lost. My advice instead would be: Stay true to yourself and follow your passion, you will find yourself where you belong.

Michael

I was always a good student, but I never found a job that fascinated me enough to go to college and pursue. I always loved film and writing, but I was always told that it was an unrealistic dream. I finally decided to go for it, and even though the school I attend is very expensive, I am happy I am attending it. I have finally met like-minded people that also have this love for film and even though they are from different countries and cultures; we all have a lot in common. It is like a family here and it has given me the confidence to not only finish school, but to really excel at my film career.

Cassandra

Though I have only really taken the basic required classes so far, I have learned that it is not always easy reaching your goals and making those dreams come true. But it will be worth it. I have received many opportunities that I would not otherwise have gotten and made lasting friendships. I know that because of the foundational lessons I have received thus far, I will have a solid basis for all of my future endeavors. I am called to do great things, big things. I want to make a difference in the world I live in today, to make life better for those I meet and for the generations of people that I will never have the opportunity to know. I am excited to be off on this brand new adventure and look forward to what lies ahead!

Yensa

I haven't gotten anything out of it yet. I am enrolled, but I will be beginning classes in July. I will however expect to gain a sound education, knowledge, experience, independence, a more opened mind, a few polaroids, photography/people/editing skills, and a few long termed friends.

Alyssa

A quote by Greg Anderson perfectly sums up what I have attained from my college experience thus far: "Focus on the journey, not the destination. Joy is found not in finishing an activity but in doing it.? My life seems to be a series of goals and completions and I tend to disregard what happens in-between. I have learned that the time in-between making and achieving is called "life." If I do not focus on my journey, each season will pass and I will forget to appreciate every moment I have been blessed with. Genuine appreciation gives a joy that is unique in itself. So, why has my "college experience" has been so valuable? I have found a new appreciation for every moment in my life and in turn received an extraordinary joy, which I will never take for granted. Thank you for your consideration, Alyssa Johnson

Marjory

i can accomplish more here in this private school more than i would be able to in a community college or university.

q

no idea

Evonne

My college experience has allowed me to see that which is current in the visual world. What new and exciting technical achievements are being utilized today, in real time? It?s been extremely valuable to understand that technology has gone forward, and image making has become more demanding keeping up with the times. This new way of capturing life affects every genre that is visually dependent in the world, in every type of field of expertise. Being able to meet the visual communication need, requires the education to interpret these needs and translate these needs in the specialties that are now much more that the average person perceives as ?photography?. It is for this reason, it has been valuable and actually, invaluable, attending college in order to be prepared for state of the art technical prowess available in an openly creative environment.

Michael

I am following my dreams atending the school I had wished to go to 14 years ago. It has been challenging letting go of my old life in the construction world (the money I once made) and hummbling myself after the market of my work field crashed. The adventure of Brooks has been chalenging, yet rewarding. Being homless my first session at school allowed me to see life from a new perspective. My talents and passion for filmmaking and education are above and beyond what I ever exspected. Follow your heart and you will be fine.

Ryan

I have had the chance to be a part of two schools; Arizona State University as well as Brooks Institute of photography and the change from schools has been amazing. I would tell myself to do what I wanted to do and follow my heart, my parents were really hard on me in the beginning and forced me to make a rash decision and not go with my own gut and what I truly wanted. It is my life and I should do what makes me happy even if it takes sacrifice. Great succes can only be measured by what you had to give up in order to get it.

Andrew

Follow your dreams and never sell yourself short. If someone tells you that you can't do it, don't let it stop you. You have alot more talent then you give yourself credit for. And, you won't know unless you try. So shoot for the stars and you will succeed.

Rose

If I were to go back in time I would tell myself that education is a journey not a race. I would tell myself to go and travel with friends before making a commitment to go to college. You don't have to rush off to school and commitment yourself to something you're not ready for. I would tell myself to go and see how the world around me works and try to figure out what my place in it could be. I would also tell myself to remember how the big the world is and what an incredible diservice it would be to not educate myself to the best my money could afford. Being educated will always assure that no one else writes your future for you. Also, don't leave for college until you have undergone some type of change that leaves you a little happier with you are and at least until you can cook without the use microwave.

Andrew

Focus! That is all I would say. Looking back all I can think about is how much harder I could have worked. I feel like My youth and inexperience in balancing multiple projects kept me from getting all that I could have gotten done completed. If I would have just focused a bit more and really worked on developing a bigger and better photography portfolio then I feel my search for a job today might not be as challenging. The work you put into your schooling will directly correspond with how hard you have to work or how successful you will be once you have graduated. So in one word..... FOCUS.