California State University-Sacramento Top Questions

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

Racquel

Go to campus & ask the students what they think. The students know more & are the ones who help fellow students figure out application, deadlines, etc. The school staff knows nothing, doesnt want to help, & acts as if you are bugging them when you ask them to do their jobs!!!!!

Tanya

Student's and parent's in today's world, with an uncertain economy, should look for the best education they can acheive at the lowest cost. There are many great schools out there that offer a competitive education, but are not as well known. Students should also be sure that they are ready to make the dedication to their education, and not be looking for the best "party" school. It is important to not waste time and money going to school just for the atmosphere. An education is very valuable and should be taken seriously. If student's are unsure of what they want to major in then it is best for them to look at junior colleges while they are trying to figure out what suits them the best. A college education can be costly, but the rewards make it all worth it in the long run. All student's and parent's want the best education they can receive, and it is important to tour universities and weigh all of the options before choosing the school that might be more well known and expensive, when there are good professors in even the lesser known and less expensive schools.

Chava

Just make sure whatever college you choose, make sure it has a home feeling and the people are friendly. This will make your college experience a good one.

aisha

Take your time and look into all of your choices.

Evelyn

You should really go look at each and every campus before you choose the college you will be attending

Vanessa

The college experience is unique to everyone, and it begins with choosing a college. In my personal selection process I analyzed the values and interests that are important to me and compared them to the school I was considering. For students, be honest with yourself and your parents about what aspects of a school you cannot compromise on, such as the size of the campus; whether you can handle knowing everyone or being a face in the crowd is important to adjusting and enjoying your time in college. Following what one knows about their preferences aids in the transition to this new phase of their education. The impact that college has on the rest of peoples' lives is phenomenal, and it's a multi-faceted opportunity in education. Student groups help foster the sense of community and it's a great way to explore interests, meet people, and even learn more about yourself. There are many ways to get involved on campus and I encourage every student to take advantage of the various clubs and events. Academics also enhances the college experience and if possible, explore areas of study not available to you in high school or designated major.

Gabrielle

In order to find the right college, first you need to know what major you are interested in. If you're not interested in any subject at the moment, it's best to attend a school that seems interesting to you. When finding the right college, parents and students should look into how the ratio is for students to teachers, what majors are offered at the institution, how the environment feels like and more. It's highly recommended for students and family members to take tours of campuses to see if it feels right to them. Making the most out of college doesn't mean partying every single night. You can go to a party or two but not to the point where it rules a students education. Time managment is the key word. Yes, studying is the most important in college but students should take a break from studying in order to stay healthy and for example go to dinner with some friends to take your mind off of a school for a while. So, take in all considerations with an open mind when looking for the right school and use time management to experience a great college experience.

Cindy

The one advice I would give to students who are looking for the right college is to find a college that is known to have excellent teachers. If the teachers are not good, there is no point in continuing your education. In order to get a good grade, you would spend excessive time studying text books. If students are going to do that, then what are teachers paid for? They are not there to merely give tests and empty lectures. If a college is known to have a good program, it indicates that program have at least moderately good teachers. No matter what, do your research and please keep in mind that education comes first. With my financial situation, I had no choice but to remain at home and attend the school I am currently attending. I know that one may be extremely tempted to attend colleges your friends are also attending, but do realize something that is very important. While two people can be best friends, their future goals can also be different, hence their paths cannot be the same. While one college is good for nursing majors, another is good for science. Future students, think before you walk.

Phuong

First of all, students themselves need to figure out what they want to do in their future; thus, they can choose majors to study. Secondly, using online resources to search for schools that offer these majors and still satisfy parents and/or students requirements. Paying a visit to these schools is necessary; it will gain the students' college experience. Reaching out for resources such as newspapers, online, friends, and school counselors to learn more about these schools' pros and cons is a plus. Once the students choose their schools, an orientation is a great idea to learn more about the benefits and resources available for students at their schools.

Becca

There are many things that I wish I new before I chose a college that I know now. The best advice that I can give students is to follow THEIR dreams, not anyone elses. Choose the college that best suits you. When you step onto campus you will just know if that's the right school for you. Once you have found your college take everything in; what you learn in class, from your friends, from your own experiences, and from other people's experiences. This is time for you to find out who you are. Don't follow other peoples' footsteps. Make your own imprint in the world. Life is all about choices. Trust in yourself to make the right ones. My advice for parents is to let your child try to find their way in the world. Let them make their own choices; it is the only way that they are going to grow. Just make sure you always tell your son/daughter that no matter what you will always be there for them.

Jason

I would recommend taking a guided tour of the campus to gain a feel for the university. You can better understand the conditions of their facilities and make a judgement on how benefitial the school will serve your goals. With a guided tour, take time to casually talk to students walking on campus. Ask them what they think of the school and if they are satisfied with their educational experience. This way they can gain opinions that are not given by the universities appointed tour group leader. It will be an opinion of one that is not concerned with filtering their words to make the university seem better than it really is.

Jennifer

Don't be dazzled by the fancy college introductions. Some relatively innexpensive colleges have good programs and community. Meet the teachers in the department your interested in and tour the campus before making a choice.

Charlene

Find a faculty mentor in your academic program. It will help keep you focused and motiviated.

Adrianna

To find the right college, one must research what they look for in a college. Everybodys preferences are different, so it is important to decide what you look for in a college. Also to take into consideration is the majors. Not all schools have the major of your choice so it is important to see the academics they offer. Another factor is the school size. Some people like the small population of a school where they will know everyone and meet everyone at some point whereas others like to be a small fish in a very big pond. To make the most out of a college experience is to explore. Explore the clubs, activities. fraternities, social events. Meet new people and meeting those few people will make the experience even better. These will open the doors to new adventures and memories.

Gning

Choosing the right college is never easy because the college you and your child choose will determine an experience that will be different from a college that you didn?t choose. But the right college will provide a safe and secure campus as well as challenging coursework to help that person grow. I think that the major that a person chooses determines their college experience. If you choose a difficult major like Engineering or Bio Sciences?the students tend to stick together and study together as they progress through their curriculum. Whereas a business major (an easier subject), students tend to not study as much and have more time for a social life. To make the best of a college experience, a person should be open minded, friendly, and outgoing?this will attract other people to him/her. Any experience depends on who you surround yourself with.

Laura

Don't choose a college because it has the major you think you want to study, or because it is considered prestigious. Spend time on the campus, talk to current students, sit in on classes, and stay in the dorms if you can. Choose your college because the place feels right. In the end, there is no quantifiable set of criteria that makes a certain college right for you - you'll just know it. Too many people think that college is about pursuing a degree that will funnel you into a specific career. This is only true for a small number of students. College is about discovering who you are, and you'll probably change majors at least once. Once you graduate, you'll find that most jobs don't require a specific major anyway. If they do, you can always do graduate studies.

Doua

The best advise is to take a trip around the campus. Ask questions about what the student would like to major and see if there is that major at the college. Take the time to visit each campus that the students are considering to go to and go on campus tours.

Michelle

My advice to parents and or students about finding the right college and making the most of the college experience would be to ask the student what they really want out of college. I believe that the student should decide themself which college they would like to attend, and should not be forced by a parent to attend a school they don't want to. I also think that it's important to visit the campuses that the student may want to attend, to get a first hand perspective of the campus. They should talk to current students at the school, and ask questions that they feel are important such as about dorms, extracurricular activities, classes, professors, and the campus. Also looking at websites and books which rate college campuses is helpful in making the right choice.

Jason

To find out which university is right for you, you must do research! Ask current students or recent college graduates of the campus how their experiences were. Most of the time, they will be upfront and honest about their opinions regarding the university. I also recommend taking a tour of the campus before you apply to get a feel of what it would be like to take classes there. To ensure that you have the best college experience possible, I highly recommend joining at least one campus organization. College is your chance to broaden your horizons and make friends with people you never thought you'd socialize with. It is also a time for you to build your network with fellow students so further on in life if you are looking for a job or an associate to work for you, you can call on them. Also, the college experience is not only about meeting new people and partying, your academics should always remain your first priority. It is okay to have some fun here and there, but school should always come first. Otherwise, you will be stuck in college for a long time, while all your friends have left.

Alexandra

The best advice I can offer students in finding a school that best matches your educational goals would be to first investigate the type(s) of career(s) in which you are most interested. A personal development class such as Career Planning can help you assess your strengths, weaknesses, and personality style. Once you decide upon an area of interest, explore the field by taking introductory courses at a local college, interviewing professionals already working within the field, or by working as an intern. Interviews and internships often reveal many attributes about the profession which you may not have previously been aware of. You can also learn which schools are considered most acclaimed by professionals in the field. From working professionals, online resources and/or your local college, research which degree(s) will most benefit your marketability, and which schools are considered most credible, to professionals in the field. This process has led me to choose CSU Sacramento, as I first decided to become a teacher, then learned of the best degree for me to achieve this goal, and lastly discovered that CSU Sacramento is well-known for their Teacher Education Programs.

Alexis

Make sure that you visit the college ahead of time, but not during the summer, or on a break when the college students will not be there. Talk to students who are not part of the orientation staff. Drive around the surrounding areas to make sure it is a place you want to live.

Rachelle

Make sure you like the area. Colleges pretty much offer the same thing so you have to like where your going. Take it from me, I first went to a college that was a good Business school but I ended up not being in Business and I transfered to somewhere I love. Im happy and studying something I truely enjoy!

Alicia

I would want students to make sure they investigate the schools they are applying for and make sure that the academic programs are sufficent. It would also be wise to check out the social calender and make sure that the campus isn't party oriented because it could cause problems from younger students and those who wish to have a completely academic college experience.

Madeline

I feel that it is best for parents and students to understand and accept each others' desired and anticipated goals as a result of the student attaining a college education. With communication and a common understanding of expectations, the process of finding a right college is less burdensome and stressful. Both parents and students should consider the lifestyle and preferrence of the student as for him/her to feel comfortable in the campus environment. It may be beneficial for one to attend a college that has a very different culture by opening his/her mind to new things, but for another it may be difficult, intimidating or distracting. The student's ability to cope with the campus dynamics affects the capacity of learning and the potential of the student. It is also important to settle future financial plans and ensure that the student's education is well-funded.

Matthew

Go into your University chooses with the right expectations. CSUS is a commuter school, and I knew this when applying for this College. Many students transferred to CSUS with the wrong perception and were often disappointed. Know which programs your college excels at, and if it's not what you want, don't go for it!

Amber

Visit the campus and go to the college that has the main thing the student is looking for. Make sure to keep your options open and talk to academic advising prior to making any ultimate decisions so that you can be completly confident in your decision. Also, familiarize yourself with the additional benifits the school offers (health services, psychological counseling, clubs, fitness groups, etc.) if you are payeing for them you might as well know what they are!

Kevin

I have been in college much longer than four years and have attended several different junior colleges,state colleges and even studied abroad for one semester. I feel this experience gives me a little more insight on what makes a college be the best college for each person. For me, college is, of course about learning, but your education is never your enitre life. You need to be near people you care about and that care about you. Having genuine friendships and fufulling relationship outside campus makes the entire school process much more enjoyable. You don't have to go to a school where your best friends from high school are going, but once you get to your college, meet people. Get involved. Become more than just a student. College is what you make of it so make it great!

Sang

Before attending to any university or college, think ahead about your major. It will save you a whole lot of time. 95{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of the incoming college students go into college not knowing why they?re there. From my experiences, an undecided major can cause you a lot of consequences. You will be ending up taking classes that are completely useless and staying behind in college. Changing majors often is not a fun thing to do. So seriously, think for yourselves and think ahead. As for the college experience, try to have fun while you?re at it. Time goes by faster when you are actually enjoying the process rather suffering it.

Lorena

College is one of the most memorable experiences in an individuals life; chose according to your expectations for your future and individual needs. To get the most out of your college experience remember to get involved as much as possible. Even if you are not familiar with a certain club or organization, ask questions and do not be afraid of new experiences. The individuals you meet and your involvement in activities will benefit you in your future endevours.

Lawrence

I think that from my experience of selecting a college starts off with a plan. Sacramento State was not my first choice, at first i wanted to attend CSU Chico, but because i did not effectivly plan to move to the city of chico and figure out where i would live, i did not end up going. I say that the very best thing that you can do is save money, and be flexible to changes that may happen to your original plan. College is the first time in my life where i felt as if i was really living in the real world, and it is important to not dwell on things that you cannot change. Roommates move, people change, but it is important to be able to adapt to the changes that college, and also life puts in front of you.

Susan

I would definately suggest that you take the time to visit the school and talk to the students. Check out the surrounding area and really ask your self if you are willing to take chances and take healthy risks. If you have a disability make sure that your needs will be met. Don't be affraid to advocate for yourself because no one else will. Most of all be safe and have fun!

Amanda

I would tell parents and/ or students to find colleges that offer the major your child/ you are interested in. After that has been established, filter your options by those that are compatible with your financial situation. Last for picking the right college would be to visit a couple universities. Get familiar and talk to students that are there. Talk to people that work in the department you are interested in. Find out the qualifications and requirements for your major. In order to make the most of your college experience you need to be comfortable with your surroundings. Getting familiar with what the campus offers will help. Talk to students and check out the campus website to see what kind of clubs and events are offered. All of this advice will surely help every parent/ student find the college that best fits them.

Brandon

To find the best college and enjoy the best experience while there, I would strongly suggest that parents and students fine a school that not only fills their needs on campus, but off campus as well. The school should be able to offer a variety of activities on and off campus, as well as be interested in the students life individually. Teachers and staff should have a genuine passion for their job, evident in their interractions with their students and their ability to connect on a personal level. Beyond the on campus experience, students should have access to jobs, housing, and services to assist them in daily life. Students and parents alike should research the school and surrounding area in orer to make sure it fills their needs and adequately assists their student in acheiving his/her goals in life.

See

First of all, view the dorm rooms if you are planning on living on campus. Then look at your financial aid package. Also, you MUST visit the college before attending to make sure you feel good with that environment and the city it is in. Then ask about the classrooms, the size and availability of professors. Also, if you are thinking about the greek life, ask about it. Make sure you make a list of things you want to know and ask the tour guide to answer it or try to get it answered by someone from the college. It is best to find something you will be comfortable in, then having to live your next four years and struggling or being descriminated against.

Norah

My advice as a hard working dedicated student would be to choose the college that offers the best program for one's major of interest. If one does not know what she wants to major in I strongly recommend a junior college. That way the student has the chance to take a variety of classes at a very lost cost and decide on a major. Once a major is chosen, the student is offered to make a contract with the university of her choice that guarantees her transfer once she completes her associate degree at the junior college. While it is extremely gratifying to be accepted to the top schools as a senior in high school, finances and major choice should be the root of why the student is attending the university, not for prestige or because it is a change. Once the university is decided the student should get involved in some way other than academics whether it is a club, Greek organization, or athletics it will make for an unforgettable college experience.

Kyle

Be sure to know enough about yourself to see what atmosphere you wish to attend. Know if you want to attend a large campus, a small tight knit campus, a commuter school or a "live-in" campus. Try to know if the campus has strong school spirit if that is important to you, and be sure to get to know the surrounding area. If you plan on working, or living off campus know the city that your school is located, you will be spending the next several years in that environment. Also try not to worry about having your whole college experience planned out before you arrive to campus, the next several years you will be changing alot and finding yourself and new friends and you want to be able to arrive to school with an open mind and a positive out look. If you arrive to campus with certain expectations, you are more likely to be let down. Have a goal in mind but do not set your college path in stone beforehand. Be positive and get to know your campus and take advantage of the services it offers.

Vishal

-Start early with the search for the right college. Feeling comfortable and accepted on a campus is just as important as academic success and it is arguably a harder facet to find. -Although entering college is a daunting, life changing turning point in life keep in mind how immense a privilege it is and how few people on earth possess and complete a college education. Parents: If your child either gets rejected from or rejects an acceptance letter from a top-notch school just keep the above point in mind. Students: have fun and don?t take higher education for granted!

Stephanie

I highly reccomend students and parents to go on college tours and talk to the faculty and students about the university. Students can make the most of their college experience by getting involved with extra ciricular activities on and off campus, spending quality time with friends at socializing events and take classes that they are interested in (especially classes outside of the major chosen).

Justin

Future college students should begin the search for the right college about their sophomore year in high school and start applying for colleges in their junior year. This should allow them enough time to visit the potential campuses and learn about the programs offered and find the right match. Students should apply for as many scholarships as possible; you can never apply for too many scholarships. To make the most out of your college experience you should apply to colleges away from home. By being away you will have the opportunity to experience the college life and grow as a person.

Ryan

What my parents and I did and what everybody should do is visit the schools you plan on going to and take in the atmosphere. Also, talk to people who have attended that college or know of someone who has. Read about the college and find if it is the best fit for you and if it fits your price range. I stayed in my hometown of Sacramento to save money and I just commuted to school.

Jennifer

The most important point of advice I have to offer students and parents in choosing the right college is finding a school that has a program that matches your education and career goals. Schools deficient in the subjects of interest to the student should be ruled out as potential choices. Once a choice has been made, the student can make the most of his/her college experience by participating in extracurricular activities that pertain to their interests. In addition, I feel that finding a reliable mentor and advisor in the student's chosen field is quite possibly the most essential element in reaching educational and career goals. A mentor can be an invaluable source in choosing appropriate courses, finding internships and oppurtunities, and also as an understanding confidant to relay issues to when school or life seems to be overwhelming. This can be the first step in having a rewarding and fulfilling college experience.

Cheryl

I would recommend that they choose the college that best fits their major and the location of the campus should also be affordable to them depending on their financial situation. If they need financial assistance, I would tell them it would be beneficial for them to apply for financial aid. Also, I would suggest that they should become involved in extracurricular activities such as social clubs, sports, or volunteer programs that would help them in their sutudies. To make most of their college experience, I would advise them to make new friends and form study groups so that it could help expand their knowledge through other students. Another thing I would recommend to students and parents is to apply for internships so that they could get work experience in their field. Overall, it depends on what the student wants out of his/her experience in college and the best advice I could give students is to work hard for their goals and dreams.

Morris

Research!

Sheena

Pick the college that looks most appealing to you. Schools that have money to rebuild and remodel are probably the best to attend as far as technology and research. Social life during the college years is very important, so schools with a lot of spirit are the best choice, if fun is in your vocabulary. Also, it would be a great idea to choose the college that emphasizes the concentration or major you are looking into. In college, be proactive in meeting new people and either join a sports team or fraternity/sorority. Be involved in school to make the best of your college experience. Networking is really important to succeed in life.

Teresa

The advice that I would give to students about finding the right college would be the following: Check the majors and minors that each college offers and make sure that your intended major is offered. The next step would be to visit several colleges and determine if the environment is suitable for you. Deciding what college to attend can be a stressful and difficult decision at first but at the end, it is all worth it. Once you are attending the college of your choice, enjoy every moment of it. College is a great experience and you learn so many things. Set goals for yourself and accomplish them and your future will be bright. For parents, the main advice that I would give is for them to be supportive. Parents should realize that college is a perfect time for their children to become independent and responsible. College is a great experience that their sons/daughters will experience, so be there for them. Always be supportive and never turn your back on your children. Parents are a big influence for their children's success and effort. Always be supportive and your sons/daughters in college will have a great future.

Amanda

Make sure you are well prepared and do research on requirements for your degree and know when classes are offered so that you can prioritize effectively.

Casey

Enjoy it while it lasts

Marcus

Stay in the droms first year make friends get out as fast ast possible transfer to a good grad school so that you have something that looks good on your resume because people laugh at sac state

Uri

Choose a good college that

Stephanie

First of all, go to a 4-year university. You don't get the college experience attending a community college. That's one thing I would change if I could. Also, move away from home if you can. It's so much easier to make friends and have independent experiences...you're forced to socialize :) I really don't ever know if there is a "right" college. You never know until you get there. I transfered from a community college and the college I am attending is much better, but I don't know if it's what I have always had in mind. Keep in mind the location as well. That can sometimes make or break your experience. Lastly, don't hold back. Do everything you want to now because you'll look back and think of the things you should have done. Avoid that list...don't let it exist.