California State University-Fullerton Top Questions

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

Mary

If I could go back in time, I would warn my high school senior self of all the obstacles she must overcome in order to have a smooth transition into college. First, I'd say that the key to overcoming all of these obstacles is learning how to grow up, and to grow up quickly, whether that reality is welcomed or feared. Growing up involves moving out of the place you call home, and discovering that you are your own "mother" now. In the past I had never had a problem making friends, but college is a whole different experience. I would let my past self know how much confidence it takes to speak up and start that first conversation. I will tell her not to settle for seeing a movie alone, or making dinners for one every evening. Lastly, I will tell her not to forget who she is, but also not to dwell in the past. She will have certain people trying to hold her back, but she needs to know that it will only bring her pain. Change is scary, but sometimes we all need to be scared to really know what is right.

Jasmine

As a college senior who has struggled with the burden of working 2 jobs and going to school my suggestions to my former self would be simple. I would tell myself the value of the education I am recieving at the High School level. I would encourage my former self to focus more on school and to seek additional help when I was struggling. As a high school senior I struggled with school, belonging, family issues, and social issues in addition to never feeling smart enough. These are similar issues that students in high school face everyday. I would encourage myself to commit myself to the task and give it my all. Additionally I would remind myself that I smart and can accomplish anything I put my mind to. As an adult I realize the value of education and I would attempt to light the fire of passion that I currently feel for education. I believe that having a free education was something that as a high school senior I took for granted and I would encourage myself to take full advantage of all the opportunities that I can. I would take honors classes, college classes, AP classes and exams.

Rachel

Oh my goodness I wish I could go back and tell myself so many things. I was so nervous and ignorant about the whole process. My parents did not inform me about how college worked- they just made it more than apparent that it was my responsibilty to get into a good college and make them proud. I wish I could have told myself back then to find other paths to knowledge about the processes involved in being a college student earlier rather than later when I wasn't able to get the information I needed from my parents, friends, and school counselors. I would have highly recommended to myself to get more involved on campus sooner rather than later as well because once I started to get involved I found a whole new world of opportunities out there. Lastly, I would have told myself to stop thinking so much about how I can't afford college, and start thinking about how I am a good student, an asset for any school that would be so lucky to have me as a student, and that if I work hard enough I will be able to make it financially.

Ashley

If I could go back in time, I would warn my 18 year old self that a rollercoaster ride was in store for the next few years. When I was in high school I was so worried about the workload overwhelming me and not being able to keep up. Little did I know that school would be the least of my problems while attending college. So if i met the high school version of me, I would give her this nice little list 1. Dont miss class, it'll cost you a letter grade 2. Wait till Thursday to party! 3. Dont be so nervous about living alone, it'll be awesome 4. Dont pick classes before 10, you wont go 5. Talk to people in EVERY class, you'll need them at some point 6. Frat parties should NOT be a weekly thing and above all I would be SURE to say 7. College life is what you make it, so take chances, make new friends, and dont be afraid of what people think, theyre not watching you anyway. Try everything you've ever wanted to try cuz you only get one shot here!

Daniel

Proverbs 4.

Jasmine

Knowing what I know now, I would have gotten information about the many clubs and organizations that my school offers and joined. I would have done this to bring a challenge to myself because I am not too social. I would have told myself to build a relationship with my professors, get to know them. In other words, tie myself closer to my school and look to it more as a community rather than just a school. I would advise myself to join the freshmen programs that the school holds to transition into college a little bit more aware and prepared, rather than just feeling my way through as I had done. I would encourage myself in pushing for greater academic excellance to bring glory to God.

Andres

.

Nicole

First piece of advice: don't put too much pressure on yourself when choosing a career. In your first 2 years of college experiment with your classes and your extra-curricular activities because you?ll be more satisfied and more driven in life when you discover what your passion is. Second, prioritize! Believe me, having your life in balance and staying organized will not create as much of a headache for you as scrambling to get your homework in on time because you were out with your friends all night. Set some serious goals and make sure you?re taking the steps to reach them. Plan ahead and manage your time wisely. If there?s one thing that slips away most in college, time would be it. Thirdly, make an effort to get to know your professors. They are there to help you succeed and provide great references for jobs and graduate programs. Lastly, the most important thing: be present. Relish every moment in college, get involved, build positive, lasting relationships and give of yourself. Be confident, be ambitious and don't be intimidated when opportunity comes your way no matter how big. You?re capable of great things!

Alexis

I would tell myself to just have fun and not stress out. During high school I was so concern with figuring out what college I should go to and what field I should major in that I missed out on a lot of the high school experience, but now looking back, I think I always knew everything would work itself out and be fine. I am extremely happy with my choice in colleges and I look foward to graduating from Cal State Fullerton.

Jana

I would tell myself that I could have a balanced academic life. A college is for not only career development but also a place to practice leadership skills, build social network, and enjoy fun activities. Knowing what I want to do for my career early would help me choose targeted courses, so I can save time and money. I wish that I could join student clubs/associations early, gaining valuable academic advice, and learning how to effectively accomplish a team's goal. Eventually, I could enjoy mentoring others and be a postive person to any changes in my life. Making friends in these clubs, I could find energy to face challenges as we act towards similar interests and purposes. Joining these clubs, I would be more competitive than others to obtain my desired job because I explore career opportunities, acquaint with hiring companies, and being active in the clubs. Furthermore, my college has an advanced recreation center that offers interesting classes, like Rock Wall Climbing, and free billiards/bowling. Enjoying these activities would relax myself from intense studies and leave me a beautiful memory for a college life. I hope that my suggestions would encourage and help others for success.

Stephanie

The first thing I'd tell myself is to get involved in my community early and to plan to be involved in school clubs. This will prepare me socially for the diverse populations usually found on college campuses. Second, I'd tell myself to begin college at a 2-year institution. This will enable me to ease into heavier courseloads that are required at the university level. Third, I'd tell myself to keep my major undecided for sometime to allow myself the opportunity to test my abilities and talents in different GE courses before making the initial decision; in addition, i'd let myself know that changing my career objectives several times is a normal process in college that most students go through. Fourth, I'd tell myself to build stronger student/teacher relationships with my professors because it's great to have them to rely on through your college years for a variety of resources. Fifth, I'd tell myself not to be too hard on myself, because a degree earned is earned regardless if it's with C's or A's. Lastly, I'd tell myself to embrace changes as growths; never as setbacks.

Cody

If I could have talked to myself as a senior in high school I would have told myself to take the extra time I had and take some classes at the junior college to be a step ahead going into college.

Cyrenee

Being able to go back in time and talk to myself as a senior would be very interesting. I would take my first semester experiences in college and instill in the senior me how important it is to take college seriously. I know the senior me wouldn?t want to hear what I have to say. College life is often portrayed as nothing but partying. I would tell myself that college isn?t all fun and games like it?s made out to be and that it indeed is different than high school. I would also tell myself that everyone in college wants to be the best and students would be more competitive than in high school. Thus I would have to work above and beyond to stand out from the rest. The transitions would be tougher and there would be no one there to hold my hand. Basically you?re on your own. The senior me would become more independent and would have to be responsible for getting their work done. I would then tell myself that in the next months you will need to do some major growing up in order to be a successful college student.

Tara

I would have advise myself that school is important. Not only for me but as well as my peers around me. Also watched who I hung around and kept up the good work in school to get my education. Most importantly I would have given myself the courage to go through any obsticles that might have been in my way. To stand tall in every short fight that is in my face. Reminding myself that getting ready for college, pre paring for the real world are the most important things that I have to focus on now. However, not forgetting to keep my grades at an average so that I will be able to get in the college that I want to. Staying positive in every negative situation. Striving for the best and nothing less. Going into transitioning to be able to deal with the upcoming college life is not at all difficult. It's a challenge that you could only win. So take a big step and go for it! You will not regret the fact that you have chosen to finish school and go to college. It will be an accomplishment that you could use for a lifetime.

Courtney

Be more attentive to what you are doing. Study hard for your placement test. College will be very challenging but just know that you can do it.

Jose

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior I would definitively advice myself to see a counselor prior to enrollment. The transition to college is difficult without proper guidance since it is a path from teenager to young adult; a path that includes the best years of your life. Do not be timid and afraid of speaking to the person next to you because life is about socializing, meeting different people and laughing your heart out until your check bones hurt and you cannot laugh anymore. It is about remembering the good times you had even though you cannot remember how old you are. If the opportunity presents itself study abroad so you can feel a sense of independence and explore a new culture. Most importantly, I would advice to be yourself and don?t stress too much about work and school because in the end if you live your life filled with worries your college experience won?t be as great as you would like it to have been. Do not waste your time thinking about partying because there will be time for that after graduation.

Jennifer

As with anything in life nothing ever comes to fruition, or resolves itself in the most expected way. Perhaps the first suggestion I would deliver to my previous self would come in the form of two words: be flexible. Rarely is a journey ever experienced in the way one would imagine. Attending college has opened multiple doors, and with that comes the expectation that events will affect you, change you, and help you grow. A human being is never static, so the advice of being flexible and open to experiences that might have otherwise been overlooked is a fundamental part of taking advantage of the possibilities not just in college, but in life. Another piece of advice I would deliver would be to summon courage and be bold in the risks you take. The most important and final bit of advice would be to always find joy and liberty in all the work you produce and engage in, regardless of the level of ?success? issued to it by your supporters and critics alike. This last idea is perhaps most critical to the fulfillment you find as an individual, for happiness grows from our own inherent sense of well-being.

Ashley

As you enter college life be confident in yourself and eveything you accoplish. With Confidence come with determination and knowledge to have the ability to be able to do things that you could not accomplish before.

Mirsa

My advice is to go to a college close to home unless u have money to spare to live in the dorms or an apartment. The dorms are really fun and safe, though they are expensive. Alot of money is saved when living at home because there;s no need of paying rent, bills, or food. Also it is better to to rent your textbooks or buy them used online. Make sure to study alot before any type of midterm or test. If possible, it is better to take 5-6 classes per semester.

Lynn

If I could go back in time to give my high school senior self some advice I would really encourage myself to learn to not procrastinate and save my money. College is immensly different from high school and takes an additional set of skills to succeed. In high school the teachers kind of babysit you and remind you to do your homework and turn in your projects, but in college the professors leave it all up to you. Success or failure is in your hands entirely, so it is impartant that when something comes up, you do it! Juggling a large class load in a setting that you have never experienced before requires more time and attention to details so that your college life doesn't spiral out of control. In addition to organizing better and not procrasitnating on homework and papers I would encourage myself to save my money. Living on your own takes more than you would think. On top of tuition you have food, your cell phone, car insurance, etc. to pay for and your job probably wont cover it all. Plus, you want to have money to have fun to! The benefits outway the negatives.

Joseph

Apply to as many colleges as you can. Keep your options open and openly seek God's will and direction for your life.

Harry

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself that things are going to change big time. Adult hood starts now and you will have lots more responsibility. In college the workload and time commitment will be like working a full-time job and even though it maybe easy to slack off, I would highly advise against it. Just suck it up and study early while things are still easy as opposed to giving yourself 3 times the work load later when you are trying not to fail a class. Also be social. Lots of your friends from high school are going their seperate ways and you might be on your own. Don't be so cool and shut yourself out. Be social as these friends could be your friends that will stick with you for many years to come. In short its time to grow up and realize how big the world really is and that theres work to be done.

Melissa

If I could go back in time to when I was a high school senior and give myself college advice I would tell myself first and foremost get prepared financially! College is expensive, more expensive then you think, and you need to always be proactive about applying for scholarships and rewards! If you keep your GPA high, you have a chance at getting some help. Second, I would tell myself to always remember to manage your time. Buy a calendar and always write down deadlines! Make sure you leave yourself enough time to study between going to classes and going to work. Get things done early if possible, you will feel so much better about things if you do this. Lastly, use your guidance counselors and faculty. Most often, they are more then willing to go above and beyond to help you. Don?t feel stupid to ask questions, ask them!

Jorly

I would have to advise myself about the actual expectations of college. First, parking is usually a headache, so it is important to come at least an hour early. It will also help, especially when you are stuck behind traffic or a train. Next, not everyone has the perfect schedule. Getting classes can feel like a competition, so applying to programs, such as Cal State Fullerton?s Finish in Four, can help get you the classes you need. Lastly, Student Financial Services will give you more stress than studying for finals, since they have the ability to cut your enrollment, even if you?re a financial aid recipient. For that, I advise talking to many financial aid counselors. They will help students with their financial situation, but depending on the timing of your visit, wait-time can be up to two hours long.

Amy

I would tell myself about the hardships in college such as the more intense workload and how it takes extremely hard work to earn a good grade whereas it may have came easy in high school. Also, I would advice myself to find a part-time job early to save up money because trying to come up with money for tuition can be extremely stressful especially when tuition goes up every other semester. Another thing I would tell myself is to not eat the food at school, since at Cal State Fullerton, the food court is like a mall food court with fast food and such that is very fattening. The most important thing, though, would be to study a lot and be on top of the material being taught in class so when test time comes around, I'd be prepared.

Ashley

I always knew I would go to college. What I didn't know, was the difficulty and dedication it would take to make it through every class. In high school, my classes didnt seem that difficult and the consquences were meager. If I failed a class I could simply go to summer school. It is completely different in college, I did have the option to take the class over, but it would mess with my GPA making it hard to recover. If I could go back in time I would let myself know that trying harder in high school would give an easier transition into college life. I would tell myself to ask for help any chance I could, that it is alright to ask for help as long as I know that I am doing it to better myself. Most importantly, I at least would want my young self to know not to take friends for granted, to take every chance I could to have a familiar face in school. Knowing someone is there going through the same thing every day is a great uplifter, I would love to have had friends as soon as I entered school.

Susan

I would not change anything. My decisions that I made then and the ten year duration in between high school and college gave me a chance to know myself better and then to know what I really want out of college. College itself is what one makes of it, many of the survey questions were too generalized and asked for me to speak for others. I let people speak for themselves. That also applies to how one approaches college; it can be all academics, a lot of 'fun', or it can be a great learning experience. Only you can determine what you want from college. My focus is to be open to changes and to try to learn what I could in every course whether it was a basic GE course or one in my major.

Tracy

Do not pay attention to the stereotypical notions regarding women in the workforce. Pursue your dream of getting a higher education in the visual arts. You won't starve or live in poverty if you study to become an artist. There is a meaningful career waiting for you, all you need to do is work for it. Go to college now while your young. Use your energy, ambition and dreams to aquire your desires through an education.

Andy

First, explore your options. I went to a community college after high school believing that I would not be able to afford a 4-year university. There is so much financial aid and scholarships available to help pay for some, if not all expenses for a college education. Go to the career center and find out how much financial aid you would qualify for. Then look at the other ways to help pay for college such as scholarships or grants, money that is free. Explore other options such as loans to help. Many scholarships do not require high G.P.A.s but can award students for other areas such as sports, artistic abilities, or physical attributes such as race, religion, even height. It does not hurt to apply. Second, explore several colleges to compare and contrast what you like and do not like. Ask what is important to you in a college. Good teachers? Good sports programs? Good school spirit/student activities? Do not settle for a college that is nearby, or one all your friends are going to. Consider all aspects of college life, and which school will offer the best opportunity for you to learn and grow.

Lou

If I could go back and change my college life, the advises I would tell to myself would be to become more active in the school campus by joining clubs and meeting new peoples as I move forward into my college life. At the same time, I would advise to be more responsible in time management and less in procrastination. Start researching early in an profession so I would not fall behind in finding what career I would like to do in the future. I would tell myself to not be so shy and learn to speak up when needed. Most importantly, I would advise myself to have fun once in while as i study for mysuccess.

Nichole

I would tell my self to do better so I could get a scholar ship and not be struggling for money for school. Also to not let people use your credit no matter how close you are to them.

Amy

If I was able to time travel and meet my 17 year old self, I would advise myself to enjoy my friends more, and procrastinate less. I would tell myself that working in small doses over multiple days is easier on my mental and physical health. It also results in better products. I would also tell myself that I was beautiful and to not worry so much about impressing or landing a guy.

Franchesca

Self, there are somethings that you should know about transitioning into college life. You need to take care of yourself first before you can help others. You need to learn your limits and boundaries, understanding what you can and cannot handle. For example, make sure that you do not take morning classes until you know you can handle them. Take every oppertunity to experience life on campus because the more you partake in school activities, the more involved you are, and the better your grades and sense of self will be. Learn your learning style, what works for you and what does not. Figure out what your professors want in your course work and then give it to them, it really is that simple. Ask for help when you need it. Lastly, do not over complicate it- life has a funny way of working out if you fight everyday for what you want.

Alyssa

I think I would try to learn more about the school I wanted to attend earlier to try and better prepare myself for that institution, although it's a bit difficult when you apply to several colleges and you don't know which schools will accept you. In my case, I was accepted by all of the schools that I applied to so it was a difficult decision to finally decide which college to attend. I feel I made the right choice.

Mellisa

Do not stress out! Everything is going to be great. Its okay not to know what exactly you want out of college, that is what college is for. Experience all that you can while you are here, for not only will it make you a more well arounded person, it also can help you figure out what you are passionate about I'm sure you will study things you never knew exsisted, that complete interest you. Just take a deep breath, keep up on your work, and try to enjoy your first year of college. Don't be afraid to explore your campus and what it has to offer.

Danielle

I would tell myself to not get so locked into the mind set that college is all about school and grades. It is also about the life connections and social opportunities. Sure you are at college to get a degree and a career, but life is about choices and the attitiude you have towards life is going to be the life you lead. So if all college ends up being is four years of classes and grades, then there is a part of life that will have been missed. People always talk about their roommates and the connections they have made while in college and it seems like it would be pretty easy to just walk into that , but it isn't. It has to be something you want, something you have get for yourself, just like anything in life. So in college, sure get good grades and study hard, but learn to embrace life and to not be so serious all the time!

Robert

The message I would like to give to myself and other high School seniors is quite simple, have fun! College is a once in a life time oppurtunity to develop both socially and cognitively. It is important for future college to recognize the situation they are in and to run with it. College is typically only a four year journey and it is important not to waste a single moment. To go along with this, I would also discuss the idea of responsibility. It is the obligation of the student to represent themselve, their family, and their college in an respectful way. Too many individuals enter college and never make it to graduation. It is important for students to remember the reasons for which they applied to college in the first place. For most people, college ioffers a chance for better life. College is a four year journey that requires persistence and hard work. However, the payoff is amazing!

Kevin

Studied harder and might of taken some harder classes.

Justin

I would go back and tell myself to better prepare for it and that college isn't just a time to fool around. If I had known better, I would have started networking much earlier with both peers and possible employers who could better help me along the career path. I would also tell myself to be more open to new experiences that I might not otherwise try.

monica

"Your education is up to you, so take things slow and don't feel bad about going to community college. You will save alot of time and money by taking time before transfering over to a four year. Spend as little as you can so you can wait for grad school to take out loans. There is no point in transferring if you are not sure what it is you want to do. When looking at schools, find somewhere you can be a part of a community and intetnionally put yourself in that place. Transferring can be lonely if you aren't involved in anything other than classes. Know that doing well in your classes and finishing your degree is important, but it should never be your sole goal in education. Obtaining a bachelors is only a stepping stone to your career, not a free ticket to a higher salary in a job you love. There is much more work ahead after graduation, make sure to soak up as much as you can from professors, course materials, internships, and experiences at school so you will be prepared to take those next post graduation steps.

Carina

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would focus more in completing my last school year with the best grades possible to bring my GPA higher. I also would?ve tried to take more AP courses because they do help when you are in college, they can save u time and help you complete units faster without taking so many courses. another thing I would advise myself is to be more involved in school, volunteer and expose myself to a variety of careers especially me not being sure of what I wanted to do, this involvement could?ve opened my eyes to careers I didn?t even know existed. I would also talk to counselors and advisors so they could direct me into what steps to take once I am in college, because for a few weeks I did feel a bit lost. And of course just enjoy this last year of high school to the fullest because once you go away to college you will lose touch with a lot of friends, have fun but still remember what matters most, your education.

Amanda

I would tell myself to try to develop better study habits going into college. The test are based more on essays and shortanswers and you really need to know the material. I would also encourage myself to get more involved on campus, such as clubs and different student activites. Because of this, you meet new people and get more out the college experience. My last suggestion would be to meet with an academic advisor to make sure that all the classes that I am taking are necessary for my major.

Dameion

Stay in school the first time around. Study hard all the way through each semester. Help other students as much as I can .

Mellisa

Its okay to not know what you really what to do, don't give in and just choose a major because you kind of like the subject. College is all about experience; in the college and career center for example, can help you get a internship or even a job. If you actually have the opportunity to test the waters of different subjects do it! Take a deep breath and manage your time well. keep up on your reading and make sure that you dont work more then a 24 hour work week if you are taking 12 units or more. Be postive/ opptimistic and explore the college world, for you will find passion, diversity, and probably your own true calling.

Erika

Knowning what I know now I would tell myself to focus less on my relationship with that guy and focus more on college, whether it's a univeristy or junior college. That even if I don't know what to major in to have faith that eventually I will find something I love. To always take the minimum amount of units so I would finish school sooner. I would tell myself to save my money because I will find something I love and I will transfer to a university and will need the money because I'm to stingy to ask my family for financial assistance. I would advise myself to indulge in campus clubs and organizations to further my knowledge of the univeristy and to also make new friends.

Shannon

Whatever life has thrown at you these past four years, these next four years can change all that. Maybe your life was heavenly in high school. Maybe it was so horrible, Regis Philbin himself can't give you a million dollars to go back. While you may be feeling apprehensive about all the life-changing decisions you have to make, rest assured that you are about to be given a chance in a lifetime: to reinvent yourself. Whoever you were in high school, you will receive a chance to be a better person , to live a better life, and to choose what "better" means for yourself. That being said, the college you choose, above all, should be a place you feel comfortable being you. It should be a place where you feel the people will accept and encourage you so that your four years of expensive education become four years of free expression. Four years is not a long time, though. Therefore, take this chance and be someone you can be content with and nostalgic about when you receive your college diploma.

Rosario

When i was a senior in high school i was also going to a community college at the same time. There is not too big of a difference going to a CSU from a junior college. A four-year does offer more advance courses but if you want to learn you have to work hard and be ready for success and failure. It is the only way to learn. Things like that happen but the key is to keep trying. You can not give up ! Keep yourself motivated and hungry for a great education. Look for scholarships if you dont have the money! Apply for Financial Aid. School takes a little more years but those years pay themselves off. Do your best to go to class! Many professors dont take attendance but keep going. Understand that it pays off. A lower course is the capstone to your upper courses and your major courses. All classes affect another some how; therefore all are important! Never forget that!

Thomas

Picking the right college is one of the most crucial decisions that a student can make. The advice that I would give to parents and students would be go somewhere that you feel is right. Make sure you love the campus, surrounding area, academic background and anything else that may interest you. College is a time of your life that should be fun and special so I urge you to make the most of it. Join clubs, dorm if you have the money and are able to and percieve every opportunity as a great adventure to add more excitement to your college life. The beginning may be frightening and you may be nervous (this goes for both students and parents) but wherever you may go and wherever college you may choose just make the most of it and enjoy your college years for they only come once. Congratulations on wherever you go and good luck!

Justina

The best thing to do is would be to take a campus tour and possibly attend a couple of classes and interact with the students.

Kimberly

I've always been told that college is the best time of your life and that it goes by extremely quickly. So when I was looking for the right college for me, I picked one that had a lot of varieties of classes, majors, and extra-curricular activities. Being involved is also very important and, in doing so, you will make so many life-long friends. It's important to do as much research as you can about schools you have in mind so find out as much as you can before you choose which one is the right one for you.