California State University-Northridge Top Questions

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

siavash

CSUN is a school that is close to home. I hear there are students that travels hours and miles just to come here. I followed my uncles who graduated from CSUN around 25 years ago. Now with all the technologies, new buildings and new professors who sincerely know the field of teaching very well, makes CSUN distinguished from other schools. I personally enjoy the fact that I can email the professors and they get back to me within hours or even minutes. The amount of attention is given at CSUN to students to succeed is applauding. The teachers are well educated and is a blessing to have them around. It has been very valuable in the way that I have been in the research program for few years now and I have learned so much being in the program and attending this school. I would not get this amount of attention and closeness of professors to me if i was attending other schools. The professors and advisors spend time by sitting with the students and write down their career years and make it more realistic as what it takes to graduate. I am in the process to earm M.S.

Kiera

During my college experience, I have learned to be a dilligent worker. I had somewhat of a smooth transition from highschool into college but I now know that if I would have worked a little harder and gained stronger study skills I would have had a better transition.

JOSEPH

I'M CURRENTLY WORKING ONE SMALL PART TIME JOB. TAKEN CARE OF MY (TERRIBLE HEALTH) MOTHER AND I. PAYING THE BILLS AND PUTTING FOOD ON THE TABLE. STRUGGLING OF COURSE BUT, DOING THE BEST I CAN. I'M IN NEED OF A CAREER CHANGE. THAT WILL BRING ABOUT A BETTER CHANGE IN MY LIFE. I'M TIRED OF BEING A JANITOR WITH NO FUTURE. I'M TIRED OF SEEING IN THE PAPER EVERYDAY. JOBS PASTING ME BY, BECAUSE I DON'T HAVE THE PROPER EDUCATION. CHANGE FOR THE BETTER IS COMING SOON FOR ME. AS LONG AS I KEEPING ON TRYING. ONE DAY I WILL BE ABLE TO PROVIDE A BETTER LIFE FOR MY MOTHER AND I!

Audra

I have gotton a lot out of my college experience so far. Being from a really small town i wanted to go to a little bigger school. If i could be a senior in High School again and do everything over, i think i would have started the college process a lot sooner. I am a huge procrastinator, and did not get the paperwork done that i needed to get done. I was late to sign up for the dorms, so i had off campus housing that i did not like at all. I felt like i missed the college experience by not living in the dorms. I reccommend everyone to stay in the dorms their first year of college. I also would involve myself in a lot more activities my freshmen year. Of course i still have time to get involved, i wish i would have started earlier. California State University has been valuable to attend, because as i mentioned before it is the only school to offer deaf studies as a major, and i think i have learned so much with that unique major being my major.

Rolando

Looking at the person I am now and the person I used to be in High School I can say that I have gained a deeper understanding of myself. I have learned so many things from my graduation to now. I have learned about other cultures, and how to communicate with others, and the world around me. I have learned a lot about what strengths I have and what weaknesses. How just reading the text book isn?t enough to pass a test, and that there will always be a helping hand. Tutoring centers and 24 hour online tutoring centers are some of many other recourses available in college. The personal experiences that I have had have not only shaped who I am right now, but they have also inspired who I want to be in the future.

Katrina

Like a delicious and intricate layer cake, college has a myriad of fun and challenging aspects. First, I am learning about myself. Having a mom who teaches, I assumed I would follow in her footsteps, but college opened my eyes. Taking a personal finance class, I realized my passion for saving and investing money. This discovery unlocked the possibility of becoming an accountant or financial advisor. I?m also learning how to live with people of varied origins and perspectives. Housing at my college consists of ten person suites. In my suite, we are all from different states and one is from Zimbabwe. Democrats, Republicans, Independents, rich, poor, white, black, Hispanic, and speaking English, Spanish, and Shona, we are diverse. However, we?ve learned to accept differences and walk a mile in each others? shoes. Because of this, I am going beyond my old blinkered point of view and seeing the world with an open mind (especially in the political arena). This unearthing of a new, independent, and tolerant self could not have occurred elsewhere. Eager to savor my layer cake, I am gleaning as much as possible from the growing experience of college.

Melissa

What I have gotten out of my college experience so far would have to be excitment. I'm excited for my future. I have learned not to procrastinate like I have done in the past and learn from my valuable mistakes. I learned that I want to be the first in my family to actually graduate from college and that I enjoy learning new things.

Tahnee

I've always heard of "college," this notion of receiving a higher education for a sum so large, it has caused many to falter. I remember, at such a young age, admiring those who earned the title of Neurosurgeon, Professor, and Criminal Lawyer, scurrying through newspapers for upcoming essay competitions, and calling radio stations to win prizes and surprizes. Looking back, I chuckle at my enthusiasm; the same enthusiasm that has driven me to the front of every college classroom and has landed me a spot on the Dean's list for three successive academic semesters. My college experience has challenged me to take control of my future. The more I carry on, the more I can feel my dreams of financial security and independence come to a reality. Everyday, I interact with cultures far from my own, and how critical it is to function in an environment like that of the real world, like that of the workplace? Learning the art of research through enlightening instruction, has deemed my writing skills critical and intellectual. Attending college has been more than valuable, it has been instrumental in my personal development of leadership skills, and in a promising journey to success.

Marlyn

I Would give myself the knowledge of time management skills and procrastination. I know in high school I would put off a lot of major assignments until the possible moment. I would also inform myself on getting used to reading and being able to summarize what was just read. Taking notes is a key asset to your success at any level or field.

Edith

Entering college for the very first time is one of the greatest transitions one can make in their life. It's anew sense of independence, responsibility, and identity. If I could talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to learn how to study. I would recommend one explore the campus of the college they wish to attend ,and learn how the way of life is.and figure out if it's the one where they feel most at home. For your college is going to be like a second home. Besides that the most important thing to know and be succesful is to study. College allows you the freedom to do what you want with you life and many don't know how to grasp a hold of that. Studying correctly ensures succes throughout one's college career.

Richard

If I was able to go back in time and talk to myself as a highschool senior I would tell myself to meet with my professors more often. The professors are there to help you and when you meet with them they are the most helpful people. They are not afraid to give you advice as wells as help with the course work. I would have also told myself to get more involved in school activites. Last but not least not to procrastinate school work.

Irvin

If I were to go back to my senior year and know what I know now, about college I would make many changes. I would take advantage and try to apply for scholarships to help me pay for books and tuition. Also I would try my best to improve in Math and English. I would start to take more college classes at a community college and also take more AP classes. I would also try to join the soccer team so I could have had some experience and it would have been easy to try out for the University. If I knew that in college you had to read a lot of books for a class I would of start reading more during my senior year to get use to it. Also time and money management is very important for a college student.

Lexi

The advice I would give myself if I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior would be to get involved as much as I possibly could. I would tell myself to make sure and apply to live in the lighthouse building, which is the Deaf and Deaf Studies dorm on campus, and to attend all Deaf Studies Association meetings. Also, I would want to make sure that I searched for volunteer work as soon as possible and establish a relationship with the people around me. I would assure myself to not give up when it starts to seem that I will never find a groups of friends that isn't controlled by alcohol and drug use. And most importantly, I would make sure that I always remember who I am and give myself the confidence to continue to be myself.

Naomi

I would stare myself straight in the eyes and tell myself to take risks, get invovled, and lighten up. I spent the first two years of my college experience focussing on work and school alone. I felt no connection to my campus and had nowhere that made me feel like I belonged. I was merely going along with the flow of things. It wasn't until my Junior year that I realized how wonderful my campus was. It was then that I started to be actively involved with the Kinesiology Majors Club. I met so many great people and was able to participate in a wide variety of activities besides class. I wish my high school version of myself new the importance of this feeling of belonging. It makes school a much better and complete experience. In addition, it enables one to network with faculty, classmates and professors who will be beneficial for the future. Graduate school requires a reccommendation from a professor, but how can they write one if they don't know you? Get involved self! See what the world had to offer! Grades and work do not comprise everything you will need to succeed.

ken

I would tell myself to shape up. I would have told myself to do all my homework and such. Because i didn't know how college would be, i stumbled across my first semester. It wasn't a good semester but I got through it. I would tell myself not to go out as much and stay home to study more often. Roomates can be trusted... if you meet the right ones. Dont ever procrastinate on your homework because it will eventually pile up and not give you any sleep.

Julianna

Not knowing what your going into and yet feeling the impending approach of a great change can be a frightening thing. I'm sure i am not alone in saying this is how i felt during the second half of my senior year while making all the neccesary preparations for college. If i could travel back in time to then, i'd tell myself to relax. No, English isn't all about writing essays and reading a book every 2 weeks, that theres plenty of time, days even, between classes to rest and study. I'd say that what is truly concerning is the complexity of every aspect of college. Registering for open classes is not a simple process. I'd tell myself to pay much attention during the freshman workshop and dont be afraid to ASK, ASK, and ASK questions! I'd stress the importance of noting the many deadlines because once you miss them, your'e stuck in a pickle. But most importantly, i would emphasize applying for scholarships and loans. Months from now i will come to realize that the complexity and deadlines are insignificant complaints when you dont have the money to pay for school.

Seamus

If I were to go back in time and talk to myself as a senior, the conversation would go something like this...."Hey, Seamus, it's me...you...with a few words of advice about college life. First off, keep your eyes and ears open for on campus events. I know since you are not staying in the dorms it is not as easy to find out about these events, but just because you are commuting from off campus does not mean you cannot participate. Second, DON'T EVER MISS A CLASS. There are certain things said in class that will not be posted online that are vital to your grade. Third, ask for help. A lot of the professors and conselors want to see you succeed in some way. Also, take advantage of all the programs offered there for help...whether it is for learning disabilities or balancing your checkbook and planning for the future. Fourth, make friends on campus. They are in the same boat as you and don't want to sink. And finally, watch out for the campus squirrles. They seem sweet, but can turn on you if you run out of food. Enjoy the experience."

Alexis

When you begin college , you should not look at this as a time to party and stay out late with friends. This is the beginning of life where you start the bigger part of your education. This is not high school anymore and its time you take school education a lot more serious. Dont take advantage of free time, because that is time wasted that could have ben used studying. Take full responsibility of all work and dont cheat your way through anything. There is nobody to tell you when assignments are due , so you have to make sure you on time with all school work. College professors will not accept late work, so make sure you manage yourself well. Enjoy college while you are there because its a good opportunity and you will be happy you completed when you recieve your degree.

Roxana

I am proud of the decisions i made in high school. I was serious about learning and wanted to complete my education. My goal was delayed by personal family problems but as soon as i was able to go back to school, which was 14 years later, i did it without any hesitation. I do have few suggestions for high school seniors: - focus more on education and less on socializing with friends; it does not matter if you were the most popular kid in high school or the dorkiest; it will only matter what you do with the knowledge acquired in school. -take advantage of the tuition fee waiver for high school students and take college classes online to reduce the amount of units to be taken in college (high school students spend a great deal of time on the internet, why not get few units out of the way in the meantime) -be more involved in the local community and help someone in need .

Karah

It's 2006, my final year at Saugus High, and I'm suffering from the same affliction as many of peers. I am diagnosed with a case of "Senioritis". Do I ditch my classes? No. Do I blow off homework? Not exactly. What I do develop is the cancerous habit of procrasinating. I assumed then that this habit would be easy to break. Wrong. How did this happen? I'd always been the standard "A student", always giving my studies 110{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c}. Then, in my junior year I was forced to overcome serveral personal trials. I recovered at the end of the year. My grades however, did not. A school councelor then told me that unless my GPA was above a 4.0, getting accepted into a University was impossible. What I had been working towards since childhood was destoyed because of one bad year, at least to my knowledge. I gave up, resigning to my fate and procrastinating on my studies. I wish I could go back and shake myself. Several friends of mine were acccepted into Universities, many with lower GPA's than myself. I would provide myself with that hope and encouragement that I desperately needed---and deserved.

Alberto

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, knowing what I know now about college, I would quote the great Jedi Master Yoda and say ?Do or do not? there is no try.? In high school I was very unsure of myself and my abilities as a student. My insecurities followed me as I transitioned from a high school to college. I lacked self confidence which made me timid and apprehensive to raise my hand in class, communicate with my professors, meet new people, and succeed in school. It took me 3 years of community college to will myself into the person I am today. I had to dedicate myself to the 2 goals I had made for myself. My first goal was to transfer out of community college and attend a 4 year university; my second goal was to devote myself entirely to attaining my degree and future in a health-care field. Had I known then what I do now, I would have wasted less time and focused my time and energy earlier to will myself into a more confident and goal driven student.

Marianna

If I could go back in time and give myself advice about college , I would say to myself "Marainna its not what you expect, your plans change." I would just warn myself of all the trails and victories . I would remind myself that I am strong and God will help me."People change and so will you. If God is your faith it will be tested. And every time you see Casey Wood talk to him. Dont be afriad to discover who you are, becasue everyone on campus is doing the same. Trust God in his plan. And not everyone graduates excatly 4 years after high school. Have fun and live life. Learning is an awesome gift dont take it for granted." This advice would open my eyes to see what lies ahead in the transiition and for college, because mine was very diffcult with deaths, and change of who I am now.

Dawnnea

Pay more the your minimum on your credit card.Save more money for your car. Don't give up on your self. Don't be afraid to get help. Do your homework on time and go over notes after class. Exploring my options once I graduate college. Knowing that I don't have to major in science to go to medical school. Always have a plan b. Expect the unexpected. You can do what ever you put your mind to. Study, study, and study.

Melisa

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, the first thing I would tell myself is to focus and not mess around. People say that when your a senior your grades dont count, THEY DO! I'd tell myself to try harder in my AP classes because they prepare you for college life, and just to do good in general. Going to college is a big transition; theres more workloads and the stress level is much greater. But if I prepared for this in my senior year it would make things easier. I would definitely tell myself to not ditch my senior year, or any year at all. It only affects your academic performance and makes one into an irresponsible student. Being irresponsible and not going to class is something one cant afford to be in college. In my senior year I shouldve learned to balance my academic life with my social life. I would tell myself that living in the dorms is a great experience, but it is not an excuse to bail on academics due to the social life. It is possible to have both, and have an awesome experience in college.

Kara

A wonder it would be if I had access to a time machine and could travel back in time to my last year of high school, 2006. I would tell myself three actualities. The first , "Stop holding on to the death of your father and stay focused on getting into Cal-State Northridge, he is in a far better place and would want you to be devoted to your studies and graduating". The second, "Never let your peers influence your decisions, their opinions are not as important as thought to be. Listen to your heart and what God tells you, they will never lead you down the wrong path". The last and utmost important I would tell myself, "Take Personal Responsibility for your actions. You play a part in your problems and can play a part in solving them". I would give myself wisdom and enlightment, rather than advice. Advice is an opinion or recommendation offered. Wisdom is knowledge of what is true with just judgment. With wisdom one can open many doors.

Liana

If I had the chance to give a younger me advice about college life, I would say get off of your butt and do something! In the last four years, I?ve realized that life keeps on going, whether you?re participating or not. You can?t simply expect to go to college and have the perfect experience without putting in a little effort. When I started my first year of college, I was disappointed when I didn?t immediately make friends, or find a club that I liked, and I let too much time pass blaming everyone else for my bad experiences. But now I?ve discovered that if you have an open mind, a good attitude, and the bravery to take yourself out of your comfort zone, you will make the most out of whatever situation you?re in. Introduce yourself to strangers, attend school events, start your own club; even though it may be scary, at least you can say you tried something new! And that will probably give you the courage to try something new again. Life?s too short not to participate, and the same goes for college. So get out there and get involved!

Maya

I'm from the bay area and I really wanted to go to college in Los Angeles to escape personal problems that were going on at home. I would have told myself tohave planned it b etter. In high school I never had that dream college I wanted to go to but I knew where I wanted to live. Going to a community college in Los Angeles would have been better for me because that would have given me more time to figure out what I wanted to do. Although going to college has made more independent and taught to order your textbooks online. I would have preferred to see the colleges before I applied and know as much information as possible about each school I applied to. Also to not stress so much about school and that going to college in Los angeles will make me miss family and friends a great; especially my annoying brother.

Amy

First and foremost, procrastination is going to seriously become something like an arch nemesis; it's something that was easy to be seduced by in high school and community college and still get away with a decently high grade, however once switching to CSUN, it just literally was a huge bite in the butt and a chunk out of the GPA. Also, find the motivation to actually do extra work and research for classes because of the +/- grading system which if not careful, find the GPA dropping drastically because of the -'s instead of getting the whole letter grades like in high school. Lastly, the atmosphere is completely different; ages range from as young as 17 to as old as people in their 60's, and maybe its because of the huge age range that everyone's mindset is all the same; focused and academically striving for an A+. It's not anything like high school, because it's a faster paced environment and there is so much more work to be done which can still end in a C. Lastly, especially the policy for handing in work late is almost non-existent except in extreme and documented cases.

Jacob

Live life like the deepest dream you never wanted to leave. Live it as if you were walking to your execution, Savoring every breath. Dont allow yourself to fail, but weigh your priorities correctly. Run after your goal as if running to the aid of your Love. Beacause "obstacles are what you see when you take your eyes off your goal. You have a potential in you that dwarfs the standard human, but potential is wasted talent. So utilize what you have at maximum effectiveness. Make "Epic" your new "standard" exercise your creative God given talent daily. And when you visualize your dream of a future and you feel the bliss of a life you could accomplish. Take a still picture of that moment in your mind, and allow that to eclipse your troubles when pain and stress come knoking at your door. But above all Love God and Love People.

Angela

I would say something like this, "Angela, college is very different in comparison to high school. You get to pick your own classes whenever you would like to have them and there is no one to tell you what to do. Prioritize your life and school so that you will be prepared for anything to come your way. Make sure to budget your money right and to save up as much as you can. Every little penny counts. Stay away from the things that will put you in a compromising position and eventually lead you into trouble. Most inportantly be yourself and let God lead you in all that you do. He is your protection during this stage of your life and forever more if you let Him be. Make sure to join positive clubs or organizations if you so wish to be envloved. Enjoy your campus experience and make every moment count. P.S. You will graduate a year later than you are suppose tom but hang in there. See you in the future." Angela

Faith

If I could go back in time to talk to myself in high school I would tell myself that senior year is no joke and that I need to stay on top of my work and for me to not procrastinate. I would also tell myself to go to the college center as much as possible because everything you need to know about college is there, I need to become bestfriends with the college counselor. Stop being scared and ask questions about whatever it is I wanted to know. Apply to as many scholarships and grants as possible because it will definately help to pay for college. One last thing I would advise myself to do as a senior is to get involved on campus, join clubs and become an active member.

Jessica

Remember that day? About three years ago, freshman year? They made you do it. In the beginning, there was futile resistance. The socially devastating possibility of being labeled a 'nerd'. The crippling awareness of your future diminishing popularity. The Debate Team was, possibly, the worst thing our parents could have forced us to do. Until we started. Believe me, past-Jessica. Four years of working towards being one of the top debaters in the nation... it pays off. And in the end, you will realize you didn't keep at it for "the parentals." You did it for yourself. You did it because you knew it would prepare you for the "real world"; which it has, in a way. I know it?s scary now, that great abyss called the future, but you like it, I promise. In the future you think you?re pretty, for example. I'm not sure how that happened. Maybe it took the act of leaving home to realize it. And you believe in yourself. Which is really worth more than what you spent on tuition. So don't be scared. Just remember you're doing it for yourself.

Ernesto

High school is the first place you want to start making sure you do the best you can. It all reflects back on what you already know and habits that tag along with it. College is like an on going job that doesn't just happens and then go home. It all happens on what you and how much time you put in all you classes to get the result you want. Teachers are not going to keep reminding you to do things or to do you homework, you are expected to have mastered that stage in your life and do as instructed. You must also be ready for the moment when it come to go to college, its not as simple as going to class five days a week for six or so hours. Its the amount of work that is given to you at your class which you are expected to master by the end of the semester. Try to make everything better for your self today so you can make a smooth transition when the time comes to move on to college.

Luis

College is going to be hard, no matter what. Don't give up on yourself because if you do, you give up on others. While in school you will meet many people, people the same age as you and older, don't be scare to reachout to others. Later on you will know the meaning of networking, because networking is very important in the field that would be going. Do not detach yourself from social life, having a social life is healthy, but also never ignore your academics, because later on you might end up dropping out. In the end, it is worth it, work hard and that hard work will open you doors. As of right now, i been working hard enough in my field and there has been many great oppurtunities that have come to me and for that you have to take them all, time mange yourself and you will accomplish all your goals.

Katherine

I would tell myslef to save as much money as possible for tuition and rent. To have fun while in high school before the stress and responsiblities start. Go to as mnay high school functions as you can! Apply to as many scholarships and grants as possible to avoid loans. Spend time with family before moving away, you WILL miss them even though you think you might now. To learn how to cook, clean, and do laundry for yourself. Choose your friends wisely, they can lead you down the wrong path. Choose a good church to attend. PLAN PLAN PLAN! Research colleges, jobs, careers, house, apartments, etc. before picking which one. Learn how to manage time wisely, mom and dad won't be there to remind you to do homework or sleep or eat. Eat healthy still adn workout or else you will gain infamous "freshman 15". Find time to have fun in college too or else you will go crazy! Find a hobby to help you relax and take breaks from all the work! HAVE FUN!!!! :)

Victoria

Twoards the end of my Seinor year my Mom had suffered from a Heart Attack, slipped into a deep coma for 3 months and eventually came out, but with a tremendous amount of Brain Damage in which she would need 24/7 care and different kinds of therapys. At that point i thought my life was over and all of the dreams i had once had were to be put to rest. From the moment i started college i had felt a tremendous amount of guilt, I decided that i wouldnt become involved with college becuase i needed to be home as much as possible. I would go back and tell myself that i needed to move on with things and make sure that my college expirence is the best one ever. Although the transition would be hard, I would have all the streingth to do it. My mom was being taken care of and it was not my responsibility to do so. It was her dream to see me go off and live the College life. Have Fun! College is supposed to be some of the best years of your life, so make it that way!

Kayla

College is everything that it seems! It is a lot of fun, parties are everywhere all the time, and there will be a lot of studying! There is also a lot of free time that many college students have during the course of the semester; don't take this extra time that you find in your schedule every now and then for granted and waste it, there is always something to be studying for or working on as a full-time student. The college experience is something that you will never forget, so cherish EVERY moment no matter what school you decide to attend. The people you meet in college will impact your life, whether in a good or bad way, but it is all part of the "growing-up" experience. College is a time for discovery, so take the time to discover the type of person you really are and what what you REALLY want out of life and what you expect to recieve out of life. College is one of the best experiences you will have of your life, so enjoy it and never forget your reason for being there-to learn and be successsful in the future!

Chase

If i had the chance to back in time and prepare myself as highschool senior for college, i would tell myself three important things. Visit every college you applied, if you are undeclared on your major attend a community college, and attend a college with a friend or someone you know. Getting the feel of all the college campuses is the most important decision. You cant judge a campus off what other people say, its your education so you must feel comfortable. Secondly, if you are unsure on what you want to do in life attend a community college. You get the same education but cheaper price as an university. By then the classes you take will help you find your interested major. Lastly attend a college where you know at least one person or go to college with a highschool friend. Going to college alone was so hard because i had nobody there to support me. I was alone in a city i was unfamiliar with. So attending a college with someone you know can help you and them transition smoothly. College is a great expierence but you must be mentally and emotionally prepared to take on this experience.

nataly

If i caould go back in time and talk to myself about collge i wouold ltell myself to work harder in highschool so i could have better skills that would be helpful to me in college. In highschool, i always was a high achiever but i always got lucky. And certain study anf homework skills never stuck with me.

Jessica

The advice I would of gave myself would have been to try harder in my classes. Worry about my school material instead of popularity and apply to as many universities as possible as a senior.

Lauren

Don't be afraid to just starting to people in your classes. Chances are, they are just as nervous as you and are really hoping that you will be brave and talk to them because they don't know anyone yet either. The moment you get one friend at college, it is a lot easier to step out of your comfort zone and make more. Besides, college is much more fun when you can have a group of people to enjoy it with.

jaklen

Do not go to CSUN . Go to GCC first and then after two years transfer over to CSUN. This was you will save money and you will stay on track . In the two years you will see that Chemistry should be your major and not Psychology... makeing a mistake does not mean you have failed , it simply means you get to start over again but only this time you are more focused and more determined . This survey has helped me understand myself better . Thank you.

Karen

One of the most important advices I would give myself is to manage my time carefully, to distinguish between what is a need and a want. I would advice myself to focus more in my school work and not to get caught up in having a social life because at the end education comes first and all the struggle and studying will pay off. I would also remind myself that anything is possible as long as I stay focus and have a positive attitude. Another advice would be to not fear new faces and to get involve on campus because it makes you have more apprecation and school spirit. Lastly college is a one time experience, dare yourself to new adventures and always remember who you are.

Vanessa

Time management, direction, motivation, and drive are all qualities that I posessed in high school. However, I always found that my weakness is fear. At times, I found myself pressed between this barrier I have created because of my experiences due to my socio economic status and gender. I have doubted myself because of this barrier, which is why I originally choose a different major from the current one I am pursuing. If I could, I would write a letter to myself containing this sentence "do not fear the art of knowing, but fear the art of trying..do it"

Cindy

I would tell myself to start taking college courses, talk to a counselor who can help me take the needed classes in order to not waste time and money taking unnecessary classes. Do first two years in a community college, go full-time . Don't slack and put off the hard classes. Take summer and winter courses. Find any and every alternative to pay for tuition other than student loans. Let student loans be the last resort. Give it your all, make friends with other students who seem to want to succeed. Don't be afraid to be friends with the professors and ask for help when you need it. If they are not available, don't give up find tutors or someone who can help. Stay healthy mentally, physically and spiritually. Finally when it all seems like it is too much, don't give up. Remember that you are strong, smart and capable of achieving anything you put your mind to.

Jamie

I would tell myself, "Jamie, don't worry about making friends or meeting new people . I know how nervous you are about your first days. Don't worry YOU WILL MAKE FRIENDS. You are going to meet people who are actually good people and who can help you with college. Another thing don't be scared about finding classes or walking into the wrong class (trust me its happened to us more than once) , it's no big deal. Just relax and enjoy school, because this is the beginning of your adult life , and although we haven't moved out of our parents house yet we eventually will when the time is right. Well I have to go now have fun, make new friends because you'll need them and of course study study study because this is our future, not just another day in high school. "

Kayla

If I could go back in time and five advice to myself when I was a high school senior there are several things I would say. The first thing is that I need to have more confidence in myself and my goals. My dreams may seem to big but college teaches you that if you work hard enough you can actually get what you want. The next thing I would have said is do more research. Apply to more than just a couple schools, even ones you arent sure will even accept you. Even if you already know it might not work out, it doesnt hurt to try. The last thing is to not give up so easily and not be so hard on yourself. The harder you are on yourself the tougher it is to move on and do the things that you need to do. College is only as hard as you make it. Forget about high school drama and what you did/didnt do. Dont rush through everything. Enjoy it because it could be either the best or the worst four years of your life.

Alyssa

I was afraid when I went into college. I wasn't ready to make new friends and get adjusted to a new town. What made this even worst is that me and my best friend were going to be going to the same school so i didnt have to focus on making friends becasue i had my best one with me. I spent my first year only making a few "friends" and feeling unaccomplished and feeling as if I didn't experience my first year to the fullest. To my senior year self, I just want to let you know you have to be courageous when you go to college. Don't be afraid of making friends and steping out of your comfort zone. Enjoy eveything that is thrown at you and do not take your first year for granted. Become bold. Make your own rules and regulations and dont be afraid to change (not to much of course). Stay strong and everything will be alright.

Erek

As I embarked on the road to becoming a college student, and starting my first semester at CSUN, I have taken the values I?ve learned into consideration. I have learned about myself and my skills in academics, social life, and communication. Staff has been helpful to me because they are very useful when it comes to talking and getting advice. Being in this bridge program helped me transition into a college student. I have practiced the values of respect, responsibility, attitude and maturity and will incorporate them into all my semesters because I know how effective they were during my first semester. Things that I have learned about my study habits are that I do not study as much as I should. When I failed my first mid-term it was a wake-up call that college was no joke. If I could give myself advice it would be from a poem I read, stick to the fight when your hardest hit, it?s when things seem worse that you must not quit. I have learned that even during the worse times, if you keep trying whatever you want will happen with hard work, good attitudes, and time.

Mone't

If i could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior I would have alot to tell myself. As a college freshman i would tell myself to take school more seriously because everything won't come easy when you start college, just because high school came easy to you doesn't mean that college will be the same it's a different level of expectations that you'll have to meet. I would tell myself to learn how to study and to figure out what works for me as far as studying because you'll be doing a lot of that. Also to learn how to manage my time because there will be a lot of things that you have to do and you need to be able to devote time to each thing procrastination is not beneficial. Time management would be the thing that i stress the most because if you don't manage your time you'll be stressed all the time and feel like there is never going to be enough time in the day to do everything that you have too. Once you've managed your time everything else will fall into place.