California State University-Fullerton Top Questions

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

Amber

I would tell myself to be more outgoing. The transition from home to college will be tough, but it all works out in the end. I would tell myself to give everything your all because you are going to do very well academically in college, but it is important to make friends too. I would tell myself to not be afraid of talking to others because they are all in the same boat as you. I would tell myself that you are capable of things you never would have thought of and you are going to grow into a person you never thought you would be, but don't loose sight of the importance of making life-long friendships with those around you.

Emily

While financially, going to a community college and then a state school would be the ost responsible, I think the experience of going somewhere complete new and unknown is important. I'd tell myself to apply to colleges across the country and do my best to attend a college on the East coast. I would also tell myself to take a semester to study abroad; it's an experience you'll never get back. And even if you don't think you'll go back to school after your undergraduate degree, do your best, just in case you change your mind.

Karen

Stop!!!! Do not go out alone with your boyfriend on graduation night! I love my daughter, but we would have all been better off if she was born later. I would berate myself to go to college, whether 2 or 4 year, immediately after high school. I tried to start when I was out after 2 years, but my daughter was small, and I ended up having daycare problems. It took me another 25 years to go back to school!!! I am enjoying it immensely, and I am so glad I went when I did. I, and my children, would have had a much easier life if I had gone to school when I was supposed to. I so wish I could go back and make myself understand how important it would be and how much I would enjoy school, not just the classes, but the fellowship with the students, instructors, and staff. Especially at Southside Virginia Community College in Alberta,VA!!!!!

Jeanne D

I would advise myself that it is imperative to take the SAT/ACT for college placement. Secondly, I would tell myself to keep close contact with an advisor and to not be afraid to speak out about my interests and future goals. It is also very important to apply early for scholarships in order to have different options open for college. While I participated in many extra curriculum activities but I did not follow through concerning the scholarships that were available. If I could go back to high school or offer few words of advice to someone, I would definitely tell them to keep these simple tips in mind. Thinking back of high school, I realized that there was not enough aid to guide many students, especially those that were inexperienced or first generation college student. I definitely fall under one of those categories; therefore, I missed out on a great deal of opportunities due to my lack of information and not taking the necessary steps toward my education. I’m pretty sure that many would agree that these few tips would and definitely do make a difference for anyone who’s goal is to go to college.

kim

Research is key! I have found out the hard way going from a two year university to a four year university there are so many different avenues one can take. Remember to cover your bases and truly ponder over your list of wants not only for school but for life. As a commuter it is easy to get lost among the translation of college life, i would imagine even living in the doorms would not prevent you from this horrid event. Take charge! be active in your school's activites, join a club, go to the gym, make friends with people you wouldn't have the cajones to walk up to on a normal day. The best part about this time in your life, everyone is new to all things college. Embrace that freedom and set aside stereotyping. Don't lose focus of your goals and aspirations but don't forget to breath every once in a while. Good luck with your new beginnings and stay strong in your studies!

Nicole

Even if you don't get into the school you want to, you will end up in the right place for you.

Jessica

I wish I could go back and talk to myself as a Freshman in Highschool. Regardless, I would tell myself to apply to as many colleges as I came across, both in and out of town/state. I would tell myself to take college classes in order to jump start my college education for the better. I would also tell myself not to be afraid to get out there and explore my options with extra-curricular activities, scholarships, internships, clubs etc. I would tell myself to try and live on campus for at least a year, just for the experience. I would have told myself to focus on myself and not worry about boys, just enjoy life and what it brings you. I would have told myself to try other means of transportation as a means to save money, and to be explorative. I would have told myself to take advantage of every opportunity that I came across and not be afraid of failing because in order to succeed we have to fail first.

Kenneth

I would tell myself not to be so stressed about everything and to try and actually enjoy my college experience. I spent a good deal of my life locked indoors behind a a desk with a book pushed in front of me. Looking back on it now, I realize that I haven't really done anything with my time besides read and study. I would advise myself to get involved in one of the campus clubs, maybe one of the student organizations that appealed to me. It would have been a great opportunity for me to meet new people, develop meaningful relationships, and make a few friends along the way. Darwin, Chaucer, and Plato are good and all. But in the end, they can't provide the basic companionship that a person requires. At times I've felt like a hermit, someone who lives on the total fringes on society. I would tell this fearful younger self of mine to take a risk, to get involved with something. This is the time when a person should be enjoying the vibrancy of youth.

Luis

Pick a major or carrer path as soon as possible. Get academic advisment early and get to know the different services provided by the school. Take summer courses to finish earlier. Get involved in atleast one group or association and make as many friends as possible. Networking is critical! Make sure your GPA is 3.0 or above otherwise you probably can't get an intership or a job which is probably why were in college in the first place. Get to know the proffesors in your choice field of study, they can be very helpful and it is beneficial to get acquianted with people in the industry. In the end college is what your make it.

Katie

Make the most out of your college experience and NEVER stop learning! There are so many things that you learn throughout your college experience that shape who you will be for the rest of your life. Yes, academics are the most important, but remember it is a time to grow, learn about yourself, learn about others, and realize what your passions, goals, and values are. The transition can be a little scary, but that is completely normal. Surround yourself with people who care about you and your growth as an individual. Do not be afraid to push your boundaries and experience things that are different than what you grew up with. Diversity is so prevalent at universities, take advantage of all the different aspects. Overall, become a well rounded person who is not only educated, but knows about different cultures, religions, and ways of life. Be a sponge, absorb knowledge in all shapes and forms, and take this time to figure out who you are and what you want out of life.

erjol

There is not much to have said. By the time I was a senior, I knew what to expect when college came calling. Coming from a foreign nation, education is top priority in our household behind family. However, what I did not except was the amount of time we actually spend in the class. It does give us a lot of time to study and work on homework nonetheless. I want to thank all of you for this great opportunity you have given me and my familly.

Kate

Right now you are a senior in high school and life is going from really good to really-not-so-good. I want you to know that dad losing his job is not the end of the world! It may seem like everything you want for the future is going down the drain, but it's not. You are going to change your mind a billion times on where you want to go in life, so attending junior college is really a blessing in disguise. Remember to always stay confident and stay true to what you believe in. Don't let your emotions take over in the decision making process for which school to go to and what to major in, because you know in your heart what you want to do in life. Mom and dad are trying their absolute hardest to be supportive financially and emotionally, so remember to show them appreciation often. Life isn't going to go how your planning it right now, but trust me it's better!

Dawn

I would tell myself to make sure you apply as many scholarships as possible, in the end it will pay off. I would also tell myself to be very prepared and know what your getting into. Stay up on your grades even if you dont think it matters, you still need to try hard. I would tell myself that I need to get out of my shell and meet new people.

Amanda

Get more involved. Take more AP classes. Spend more time with the friends I don't see anymore. Enjoy every minute.

Leslie

I am a returning student who assumed that college was a distant dream, but after a layoff from work I resolved to grow in a new direction. I commenced in junior college and transferred with distinction to university. I felt the fear of each new challenge and the satisfaction of each success. I learned to prioritize for an assignment and organize a full course load successfully. I experienced the pain of failure and self doubt, and recognized that without the struggle there is no growth. I learned that failure is another path to success, that determination is needed to complete the task despite its difficulty. The value I received from this education goes beyond my ability to earn a paycheck when I graduate. It is the knowledge and self confidence gained from pushing myself out of my comfort zone and recognizing the accomplishment of my achievements. It is knowing that my journey has not ended but is a step to my next venture – a master’s degree in psychology, culminating in a doctorate, a goal never visualized until encouragement and belief in my academic excellence revealed the expectation that yes, I could and would realize my dreams.

Kellie

Only a semester into my college education I feel enriched. The classes challenge me and the teachers have been my coaches on my road to success. The University does all it can to help us have a great environment; concerts on Wednesdays, a fully stocked gym, a huge library with both quiet spaces and group study areas, and convient places to eat all over campus. Cal State Fullerton, while it is not for every one, is everything it promises to be.

Laura

Attending CSU Fullerton has helped me feel a self accomplishment and will to finish. When i first started school i was scared and confused but as time went by and with help from wonderful teachers has been great.College has been and is helping me grow as an individual to learn to fend for myself and learn to pay bills. Manage my finances to pay books and class i would like to take in the summer. I"ve learned to recheck my study habits and improve them, as well meet deadlines and of course to ask for help when im confused about something. I've learned a lot with just attending and finishin my first semester I just wonder what ill be learning my next semester.

Brigette

I started out at Fullerton College, which felt much like a continuation of high school. I was a little disappointed with the difficulty level of my classes. After transferring to California State University, and have attended only one semester so far, I feel like I have learned so much vital information that I will actually be applying to my career. This university has taught me immense discipline and showed me how hard I am willing to fight for my education. I am the first person in my family to receive a college degree, and so the whole process has been a struggle and a learning experience. In my first semester at California State University, there were many tears, and fears about whether or not I had the ability to complete my education, including not just my Bachelors, but my Masters degree also. After completing my first semester with one A and three B's, I feel as though I have proven to myself and my family, that no matter the challenges my classes my have I will persevere and attain my goal with flying colors.

Melanie

I have gained a sense of self and independence from my college experience. My college experience has created a motivation to learn. I want to engage in life to the fullest and am determined to reach my life goals. I think the value of attending any college is the fact that it will change your life opportunities for the better. How can you give up the opportunity to better your life possibilities? I think everyone should attend college to better themselves and create a better future for not only themselves but their future families. I would not trade my college experience for anything in the world.

Stephanie

College gives the opportunity to meet new and intelligent people who are on the same level as you intellectually and share interest in your field of study. You are able to intertwine with an extremely large diversity of students. It helps to be involved in your campus and your department. The more involved you are, the more people you meet, and the more opportunities you receive to grow and expand yourself as a person. College gives you a sense of independence, self-sufficiency, and responsibility that can prepare you for life after college. I truly believe that college is neccessary step toward self-success.

Yazmin

I have honestly gained confidence and knowledge from my experience at Cal State Fullerton. I have gained confidence in myself and my choices through the knowledge I have gained from my professors and through my school peers. Cal State Fullerton is such a diverse school but everyone is common in one thing, everyone is friendly and always welcome new comers! I used to be a really shy girl and by all means not confident at all, I transfered from a community college which is a quite large community college and diverse as well but students there were not friendly at all. Cal State Fullerton has been an incredible experience so far and I can't wait for the next few semesters that i have left.

katrina

Attending college has permitted me to understand, respect, and apply ethical standards to different racial, religious, and cultural differences that I would not have understood or accepted before hand.

Amy

Attending college was an insturmental part of my adult life. College helped shape me as a person and helped me discover who I am and where I want to go. Earning my Bachelor's degree in 2005 was a huge success for me and I look forward to going back to school in Fall 2011 to earn my Teaching Credential and Master's degree at the same time. I have a passion for teaching children and have been educating children at the preschool level for almost ten years. Once I receive my credential I will be able to teach elementary school, something I have always wanted to do since I was a little girl. Being able to go back to school would be a dream come true and I plan to make it happen by finding funding through Pell Grants and scholarships. Hopefully this scholarship comittee will see that I plan to use my education to better the lives of children in need and I will be able to make my dreams a reality.

Janine

So far, I have gained more confidence about completing my college experience. I have attended college three times. This is my third time around and I am actually sticking with it. The first two times I guess life got in the way so I stopped going. Since I have been attending now I learned to focus more. I take better notes, I have better study habits, and my teachers make learning fun. That alone makes me want to keep coming back. I have a better circle of friends, people who have goes and want something better out of life then what they are getting. I have more confidence in myself to reach my goals. I come from a place where it is likely that you won't graduate high school. When you get to college and you show that you want your degree just as bad as they want you to get it, they will help. Coming from not having a support system to having on, is priceless. I think that is the most valuble thing that I have gotten other then the obvious, learning more about what I don"t know.

KRISTINA

Everyday we asks ourselves, driving home from school what shall I eat when I get home? One knows that withougt a doubt they will be eating soon, but the real question is what they are planning to have. We can relate this simple daily task to our future lives and what we plan to obtain for our future careers. For my our values I see higher education not as option but as an oppurtunity that I will surely fullfill. College is not a question. The only problem I see is all the choices, for one must choose, their true alma mater. It is a part of life; one must grasp to feel a sense of accomplishment as it will guide you through your adult life. Throughout my college years that I have endeavored I have become a more wiser individual knowing that college is the key to success. I have come across so many obstacles and stressfull nights that has only made me stronger and have built up my courage more everyday knowing that no one will keep me from attaining my future goals. I stand by believing, that my education is something no one can ever take from me.

Manny

In my family college has always been nessessary, there was never a "Am i going to college?", I always knew I was going just never knew when that time will come. I have decided to go to the Conservatory Of Recording Arts And Sciences. Music has always been a passion of mine, now I have decided to take that passion to the next level. At this school the education is vauable to me because I can futher my knowledge in music but also Audio in general. I hope by reading this you can consider me for this scholarship and really just help me out. Thank You

Maria

I've only been at Cal State Fullerton for a semester, but I can already say that college is awesome. I love meeting new people every day, and I love being able to say that I'm a college student. Sure, the workload can vary depending on the professor or the class, and there are times when I want to rip my hair out in frustration over an exam or a presentation, but I love college; it's definitely one of my favorite experiences in life so far, and I can't wait to continue over the next 3 and a half years.

Andrew

The main thing that I believe I have attained during my college experience is that of a new way of thinking about my world. I have gained this through several of my different academic endevours as well as through the people that I have met and shared confidence in. I have learned to be more accepting of people who's beliefs differ from mine, especially when they are contradicting to my own. I believe that tolerence is the first step into creating the ideal world we all envision. Through my different classes I have learned to appreciate my world and my fellow human beings as entities with a purpose that have value to the continued success of our civilization. In the practical realm I have learned how our world has become the way it is and how every person is an agent in how our society evolves. It has been value for me to attend this institution because I have had the opportunity to study under some of the greatest minds I have ever met. This institution has molded my character into one that aims to change my world for the better and positively effect all who live in it.

Raysha

I think the biggest reward I have gotten out of my college experience would be the ability to make my own decisions. I started going to college when I was 17 and still in high school. I went into a program called Dual Enrollment that would let me leave high school everyday and attend classes at my local college for nursing. After taking almost 2 years worth of nursing classes, I realized that I was trying to major in nursing for my family and not for me. I wasn't even interested in nursing! I am now majoring in psychology, and I am very excited! I think that it has been valuable to attend college because I am a first generation student in my family. I think in today's time, it is extremelly important to get a good education and a good job. I also think it has been valuable to attend for the same reason I answered the first question: I know that I'll have a job that I love going to everyday, unlike most of the people in my family, and I think that is very important - everyone should love what they do for a living.

Paul

I have learned better how to assert myself. In college no one comes to you to see how you are doing, you either have to seek out a club or a professor if you want to be known to someone. I am naturally an introvert, so college has helped me expand my horizon and force my self to step out of my comfort zone to enjoy my college expereince. All freshmen will tell you that the first few days at college is overwhelming and a lot of them will not even try to connect at their school, but will instead show up to class and then leave as soon as it is over. I believe for a student to really enjoy and get the most out of colleget ehy must assert themselves and join a club or a team, this will get them connected and make them better students because they feel they are a peice of something bigger than themselves.

Heather

More than anything, my college experience has developed my ability to critically think and analyize the world around me and the information in it. Ranging from political positions to teaching in the workplace, this view has become an intrinsic aspect of how I think and make decisions and in turn help others to do the same. Additionally, my exposure to subjects and research in areas beyond my own degree program has allowed me to make interdisciplinary connections and establish a big-picture concept, applying these methods and views wherever I can. These same various exposures have also provided appreciation for beauty and knowledge I would have otherwise not known, most notably in photography. A fourth, and grudging, essential lesson I have learned is jumping through hoops. Not everything is based off of what you know and produce: to a degree there are always politics to navigate and seemingly pointless processes that must be completed to truly succeed. The end result is not only a richer and fuller life, but a more intellectually rewarding and productive one.

Jennifer

What I got out of my college experience so far is that I learned how to be independent. I try not to depend on my parents when it comes to college. I am responsible for my own actions, and no one is to blame for my decision but me. It is valuable to attend because it helps me prepare for my future. I make my own decisions even if it cause me to make mistakes. I'm not perfect, and everyone makes mistakes. The mistakes help me become a better person and will let me understand the real world. Without experience, I will be confused when I enter the real world. I am glad that I am able to see the world by going to school and going out.

Amber

My college experience taught me about the "real world" because, as students, we attend this college to start our future. As a business student in a known business college, I would say that my field is completely competitive. I learned that I have to compete with these other students in order to succeed. My time has been valuable in this college because every second used helps me gain more knowledge and insight about the work field. As I sit in class, it is important that distractions are blocked out and focus has to be in attendance. I would say that being in college has made me more responsible with my school work and taught me that hardwork really does pay off. I am happy attending this college and because of the heavy work load and competition to stand out, I will succeed as a business student in the future.

Casey

I have had the great honor of getting married at a young age. In order to make a difference in my marriage and in my surroundings, I am obligated to better myself with education to do so. I have learned hard work, how to manage time and money, and realizing just how important an education is.

Blanca

I took advantage of all opportunities at school. I didn’t participate in a lot of extra-curricular activities because I wanted to get work experience/ internships. I think I achieved what I wanted: graduated with B.A.s, in International Business and Economics, a minor in International Politics; 3 paid internships; I went to study abroad to France for a year. I learned the most about myself and life when I was away from home for a year. I live and studied in Paris, France and it was the most incredible experience in my life and I feel that I have to thank California State University, Fullerton for that. They provided academic and financial support, and also challenged students to push their limits in their host country. My education has been the most important aspect in my life. I am the first in my family to graduate from college and I have three other siblings that are following in my footsteps. I am their mentor and a mentor to other minority students. High school drop-out rates are still, unfortunately, a prevalent reality among Hispanic students and one of my goals in life is to change that statistic.

Maryellen

Although there are many students who are lazy and complete their work at the last minute, the other students who are actually self-motivated and strive to do their best make it worthwhile because the professors see that it is worthwhile to teach these students as long as there are some who have a thirst for knowledge. I can honestly say that I have learned something new from every one of my classes, and I can see that each of my professors is willing to help each student to the best of his or her abilities as long as the student seeks help. If it were not for such great professors, I would find it hard to enjoy my college experience. Of course, there are also some great students I have met through the Honors Program who make my classes enjoyable too because they provide insightful discussions that would never have been sparked unless one of them spoke up when they had something to say. I can honestly say that I have learned more from my fellow colleagues and professors in one year at CSUF than from all of my teachers during my four years at my high school.

Radiance

I have learned many valuable lessons from my college experience. Since enrolling in college, I have learned how valuable education is in my life goals. Through education i have gained a better understanding of the world around me. Not only have I become a better, more advised citizen, but I have grown closer to my family and those friends who really care about me and my shotr and long term goals. College is extremely valuable because it is a rite of passage. Every student exiting the secondary educational system should have the opportunity to experience the pleasures of college. College allows an 18 year old to experience the true freedom of the professional class. This was most important to me due to the fact that I come from a socioeconomic background which lakced many monetary resources. Being able to create your own schedule and learn about things that the individual finds intriguing, by professors who are entralled in the subject matter can be overtly stimulating to the mind. I believe it is this freedom that keeps me coming back semester after semester. I share my story with others in the hope that it will draw more in.

Kristen

My college experience has helped me grow a lot. It has also provided me with the knowledge and tools to succeed in my endeavors. I have had the opportunity to do presentations at conferences and to get practical work experiences. Not only have I had these opportunities but I have enjoyed the experience. I easily got a job upon graduation even though there were several other applicants for the position. Cal State Fullerton also provided me with all of the educational tools and preparation needed to get into Pharmacy School. I have also developed several valuable friendships with my peers as well as the opportunity to experience positive volunteer opportunities. Overall, it has made me a more mature, ambitious and responsible adult.

Tachina

The economic roller-coaster these past three years has taught me how to be economically realistic. Through out high school, I had the world put at the palm of my hand. Now it is a everyday struggle just to even touch the sense of financial security. I learned more about finances than my own major of Chinese. The first lesson I learned in college is that "I am on my own". My family can not financially save me anymore. With each passing year, the debt got higher and my parents help became rarer. It was not out of greed that they choose not to help me, but out of love. They wanted me to learn how to take care of myself in a time of crisis. This is the greatest gift any college student can get from their parents. This may seem like a harsh lesson ,but it is one of the greatest lessons I have yet to finish. I am learning through college how to be independent financially, understand my abilities, and most importantly, cold hard reality. This is the most valuble reason for any student to attend college and become a real adult.

Kelly

I received my BS in Sociology and my teaching credential. It has allowed me to have many job opportunities and do what I enjoy the most which is teach. I would like to continue my education by obtaining a master degree. Getting my BS and teaching credential was the most valuable decision I ever made.

Nicole

What I have gotten out of my college experience is knowing that perserverence goes a long wany and is worth all the time and effort. In this ever changing economy and world, society needs educated individuals to help make this world a better place to live. When people improve their quality of life, the rest of the world improves.

Sarah

My college experience thus far has made me a far more confident person. Before I went to college I would never go up to people and talk, I was too afraid. But now, being in college I realize we are all in the same position and everybody just wants to fit in. This has given me confidence to talk to new people and make friends quickly. I cannot wait for the rest of the school year, I love college.

Shelly

What I've gotten out of the college experience is its not High School. Teachers are there to help you but you have to be willing to ask. They are not going to ask you everyday if you have your homework, did you read your assignment. I learned responsibility for my own work. That I was in charge of making sure that it all got done to the best of my ability. College is valuable because you finish growing up there. You learn about team work, working well with others and that it's not always all about you. If you want a career and not just a job College is very valuable. You will find out more of the things you like and the things you don't like. You will discover yourself.

Noe

What I have gotten out of my college experience is that I'm practically on my own and have to be responsible for anything I do while im there. I cant procastinate on anything i have to keep up with everything because if I do I wont do a good job on my work and get bad grades. One of the most important ive gotten is to seek help if I dont get something, by getting help I can do a better job in class and with my work. It is also valuable to attend every day your class meets is because if you dont go you will miss important information the proffesor will teach. I can be present to anything he says or teaches that could be important to remember for an upcoming test. By attending class participation is a big role in your grade as well, so if you miss a day you wont be able to get those points.

Kelsey

I have be able to learn that a higher education is necessary to gain a better paying job. I have also learned that it is important to be passionate about your major. When you are passionate about something it feels as if you are never really doing any work.

Juliane

College is a valuable stage in life that one should not miss. Not because of the frat parties or the piece of paper you will eventually hold in your hand on graduation day, but because of the experiences that will drive you to be a better version of yourself. College taught me to explore the realm of possibilities, to think in new ways, to challenge myself, to ask questions, to make mistakes and learn from them. The best thing I did for myself in college was explore areas of study beyond the normal courses I grew up taking in high school. Instead of English, history, math, and science, I was able to take elective courses like Comparative Literature and Linguistic Anthropology. I learned about subjects that I never knew existed and I saw how to see the world while standing in other people’s shoes. In classes, instead of listening to a teacher talk or copying notes from the chalkboard, we had discussions and challenged each other to ask questions. College transformed my from the simple, shy teenager who just graduated High School, into an intellectual, confident young woman. After all, knowledge is power.

Samantha

From my one year at California State University Fullerton, I have learned a lot about myself. In high school, you travel in groups, and it is usually the same group you have known for a while. In college, you are forced to be out on your own and socialize usually on your own. From this experience, I learned how to be out on my own, how to make my own decisions and not rely on others to choose what I was going to do or who I was going to talk to. I also learned a lot more about my likes and dislikes through my different classes, as I was able to choose the classes that I wanted to take, and I was able to learn and grow as a student on my own, not through others' telling me what to do or what to take. All together, this has been a huge personal growing experience in which I have learned more about myself and what I want to do with my life in the way that I wish to do it.

Susan

I obtained the education that I wanted at the time of my life I most appreciate it. I think there should be more encouragement for students to choose to go to college when they feel they can use it. I have been able to come out with a double major in two fields of interest that can work together for my future plans. Also I have been working with my professors in research projects and clubs which has really helped me grow as a student because they allow me to explore areas that I want to. I think that there should also be more focus on the adult student at this campus (and other colleges) because most activities seem directed towards the early 20-something students. But being more focused on my educational goals, maybe I did not look hard enough. The best value: the appreciation and love of learning.

Ariana

I love college it seems as if I learn something new everyday in every class ! I think everybody needs to go to college it changes your life and makes you want to learn and actually want to go to school .

Suzanne

It has not begun yet. But I hope to turn my life around with a new career in massage therapy. It will be something I will be able to take anywhere in the world and put it to good use.