College of Southern Nevada Top Questions

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

JAZELLE

Well if I could go back as a senior class of 2009 let me tell you I would have had more scholarship opportunites if I had the chance to go back. The advice that I would give myself is DON'T PROCRASTINATE!!!!!!!

Alondra

If I could go back in time and be able to talk to myself as a high school senior knowing what I know about college life and making the transition, I would tell myself that it is really not as hard as it seems. I would really try to tell myself how you do not need any ones? financial assistance to reach my goals, and especially not to be afraid of what might or might not happen. If you really dedicate yourself and make time, I will achieve my goal no matter how long it might take me. I would also tell myself not to waste my time growing up so fast, there are so many things to do and see, and you just need to motivate yourself to see what is really important in life. In addition I would have to insist that money comes and goes, money worries are the last thing a high school student should have to be troubled with. Furthermore, I should surround myself with individuals? that I know with have the same goals as I do, and not so much with the people without any aspirations or dreams.

Courtney

After high school I took a semester off. The number one advice I would give myself would be head straight to college. Don't take a break. I knew what I wanted to major in, and everyday I wish to be one step closer to my degree. My second piece of advice would be community is the way to go. I fought over wanting to attend a University, but now I see how much cheaper it is for the same classes and you have smaller class sizes. My third piece of advice would be to look up the teachers. I learned after a while that websites like ratemyprofessors.com are so accurate! Its been right on and allowed me to find some amazing teachers that have really influenced me. Last, but not least, I would tell myself to enjoy every moment, take in every lesson, and be proud of myself because I'm going to make it far and do great things one day.

lani

networking is good, dont be a hermit, connections and diferent perspectives are good to have especially if you miss a day of school and need to know the assignment or you don't understand an assignment. practice good study habits, you'll never be able to perfect it. work first play later but always find some time to unwind or you'll burn out. learn every good time management skill you possibly can. don't compare your academic abilities to others just always push to do better. the microwave doesn't always kill food poisoning. pay attention to the teacher not the students in class, those people might not be there later but your knowledge and grades will always follow you. always try to learn everything you can, not just whats required. top ramen is a great meal and affordable, learn to improve and embellish it. get on a good sleeping schedule, stop staying up all night and living off of 2 hours sleep or it will catch up with you. eat!! start figuring out which college you want to go to and what for now. dont ever date anyone who doesn't push you to better yourself.

Gina

Going to college at a younger age would have been a better choice for me. If I would have put in the hard work and stuck with it, I could have changed my future and I would not be working dead end jobs and would be on the higher end of the income spectrum. But I have to say that not knowing what I wanted to do for a career that would have been rewarding to me was the hardest decsion to make. Going to college early and having an open mind, taking classes that I would have not picked for myself, might have helped me figure out what the best career for me would been. At the age of 40 I look back and wish this was the path that I had taken, but it is better late than never. It never to late to go back to college and figure out what you have a passion for as a career. It took me many years, life experiences and being laid off from jobs to go back to college and learn new skills to change my life and financial future.

Mia

I would tell myself to really look into scholarships and any other aid there is besides student loans. I would tell myself to take to SAT/ACT tests and take them again just to see if there was any change from the last time. I would tell myself to make a list of schools to go to and not wait till last minute to fill out the applications. I would tell myself to take all of my classes, at that the time, seriously and not slack on anything. To keep a constant watch on my GPA and do whatever it takes to keep it high, that is what adive i would give myself.

Michelle

If I could go back in time, I would tell myself the dangers of being too cocky. I had a full scholarship to school that I lost my freshman year from shear cockiness. I allowed myself to be convinced by a "friend" that it was not necessary for me to study or attend class. I believed that my parents would always financially support me and did not even take the time to learn how to balance a checkbook. These are lessons I have had to learn the hard way. I would tell my younger self that money will not always be plentiful and just because someone else is paying for my education does not make it any less valuable. I am having a hard time qualifying for financial aide now because I am able to support myself. I wish I had finished my education when I was younger with that scholarship instead of having to pay my own way.

Klinton

I would tell myself take school serious. If you take as a joke or one big party that is how your life will end on skid row.

Cher

Since I attended the College of Southern Nevada High School, I wish I could tell myself as a high school senior that college is all about time. I would command myself to take math credits, so by the time I graduated high school, then I could be on my way to receiving my Associate's degree without a problem. Furthermore, I would tell myself to think deeply about what school I wanted to attend, and I'd also let myself know about the college search on Collegeboard.com because that is a tool that would help me after I graduated high school. On the other hand, I would tell myself to keep enjoying what months of high school I had left because the stress only keeps growing, and there isn't much a person can do to avoid it.

Daniel

I would tell myself to get my grades up and start applying for scholarships to help pay for the schooling. Second, i would say this more than once , "Do you want to be old and poor?". Third, I would give myself hints on furture events, like the future of computers, and technologies, and who to bet on in the Superbowl.

McKaylee

As a confused and overwhelmed high school senior, I would tell myself to relax and understand that while time may be our worst enemy, an eighteen year old does not need to look down on themselves for not having their entire future planned out at this very moment. The first and second years of college allow you to simultaneously continue your education in general studies, while helping you either pursue or determine your future career goals. It is important that you focus on your courses, get work done on time, try your absolute best, and do not waste time or money by not attending class. However, enjoy yourself, interact with your fellow peers, engage in student activities, and most importantly, do not be afraid to ask for help. The college experience, all people and services included, is here to guide you. This is a time in your life where you will discover your true self, who you wish to be in the years to come, and will lead you on that desired path. Follow your dreams, and do not let single speedbumps get in your way. This is your time to shine.

Joel

If i could travel back in time i would do three things. The first thing i would do is advice myself to take calculas after all and not probability/statistics because of the challenges that awaited me when picking a math class in college. The second thing i would do is to tell myself to enjoy what little time their was left in highschool, even though i had just moved there taking the time to get to know my teachers would have been beneficial. The last thing i would do is to let myself know that college isn't as bad or tough as everyone makes it out to be and that with time and a little bit of patience the transition is easy and painless. I fell that these three things would have had a great inmpact on my past self and made the present a little easier on me.

Nikki

I would advice myself to stay away from the fastfood, join a gym, and -most importantly- one should never let their friends lose touch because college life is very draining but one shouldn't let friends drift away.

Dustin

I would advise myself to put forth every bit of effort and apply everywhere and for everything.

Nicole

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, knowing what I know now about college life I would prepare myself for what is to come. First of all, college is not a joke! It is mandatory to study and you really have to be more mature in class. No goofing off and talking or else you could get dropped from the class. There is no one helping you and giving you the motivation to do well but yourself, if you don't feel like trying or going to class than you probably won't do good in college If you cheat it could result in a fail for the entire class. Unlike high school you don't meet too many friends or have a social hour. College is very fun because you have independence but you must be responsible! Parking is also a worry, try to be prepared and leave early for class or you'll never make it out alive.

Michelle

If I could go back in time and tell myself as a high school senior I would say after graduation go to college because if you get a job after high school it will take you forever to be able to go back to college. That was my mistake I took a job right after graduation you get consumed in that job and when that job lays you off or closes you are stuck. I am 31 years old and I am going to college to become a teacher if I would have went to college right out of high school I could have a thriving life but instead I am living a 20 years life in 31 year olds body and it is just not cool.

Karen

I graduated a year early from high school and went on to work. I f I knew then what I know today, I would have gone directly off to college and completed college before turning 21. College opens so many doors for you and gets you ready for the workforce.

Joslin

If I could give my senior self advice it would be short and sweet. Keep it simple! Focus on one project at a time, give every assignment time and effort, and the puzzle pieces of the big picture will fall in place. Take it slow, and remember: you have one shot to make the "A." So make it happen!

Pia

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would of gave advice on how to manage my financial aid better. Money has been a big issue between me and my single mother. We had a complication with the FAFSA process due to my income tax, however I have waited too long and did not get any money from the government for my first semester of college. I would of said that this situation could of been solved if I didn't wait so last minute when I had to register for classes again for the new spring 2010 semester. This would of been the biggest piece of advice I'd give myself: "Pia, it is your duty to keep yourself updated with your file status because the financial aid office has over 15,000 applicants, including you." Lastly, I would of pointed out the importance of applying for more scholarships throughout the year. I was very lucky to have the Millenium and Nevada Power scholarships to cover for my tuition last semester or else I would of had to pay out of my pocket, including books and tech fees.

Yurisma

I would stick to being single, stay at school longer and study a lot more, plan out my lunch/dinner schedule, and sleeping arrangements. But also remember to always get help when needed, and college is a time to focus and never take anything for granted. But also, to appreciate my parents for the sacrifice and the hard work they've done to get me in college in the first place.

Cassandra

I would tell my highschool self that life is a journey and not a race. To compare your life path with your peers is an exercise in driving yourself insane. Instead, you should focus on the things that matter. Follow your passions and always give 110 percent. If you do things that make you happy, then that energy will flow into other aspects of your life. School is very important, but also strive to make lasting connections with friends and teachers because learning from them is a course you will have for life. Be yourself and be strong. Don't ever give up.

Kelly

First and foremost, start applying for scholarships. It is extremely harder than we thought to get/obtain money for school. Regardless, when you get denied for student aide, dont get discouraged. College of Southern Nevada is a wonderful place that you'll love. Dont spend too long on adventures and different paths. While it will enhance your life greatly, it will make it harder to try and transfer to a bigger University when you are 28. Live and breathe every second of life, but always save money and take small classes along the way. You will love college! Embrace everything it offers you. Don't let people with more experience or money scare you away. Everything you want is possible if you just apply yourself to it. Take classes outside of your obsession with film. Let other venues inspire you to try and learn new things, and thus broaden your filmmaking ability. It is ok to take tim off before you go to school, just SAVE MONEY while you do it!! Thats the most important thing, SAVE AND FIND MONEY NOW!!!

luis

i am was graduation since 1987 mira costa high school in manathan beach california i want gte my life change college i want get job for teach aid ithink future my life new teach aid i not more chef i hope soon possibly help me thank yo very much god bless

Chanel

Going back in time, i would tell myself to first know what you want to major in. You should pick the degree you need, and accomplish that. If you do not know what is your major, then you can end up paying for and taking classes that you do not need. That would just waste your time and money. I would also tell mysef to take it easy and not stress out too much. Stressing out can cause axiety and can make you do worse in school.

Elyse

Knowing what I know now about college life, I would tell a high school senior me to save money and work hard at school. Like many other sixteen year olds, I had a job at the first opportunity. I would spend my money on food, clothes, shoes, music -- really anything. I did not realize at the time that I would have to be paying for school very shortly. Now, I struggle trying to make payments for school and keeping up with bills. I would definitely make sure the younger me understands the concept of saving for the future. Second, I would make sure the senior me understands the importance that grades play in your future. At the time, I had the thought process that if I was never going to use the information again, there is no point in actually learning. However, I learned that grades play a very important role in everything for college, from class placement to scholarships and funding. I sometimes wish that I could go back and tell myself what I know now, but there is no point in trying to change the past. All there is to do now is change the future.

San

I would praise myself for deciding to move out from my home country germany and study in a college in the USA. It has not only changed my educational career but also my personal life in the way i see the world it now. College turned me into an individual that better appreciates and values the environment in where i live. It is certainly one of the greatest times in my life because i keep learning different things allowing me to progress and become a better person. I would not only recommend myself but also EVERYBODY to take the chance to study in college and take it seriously. There is no doubt that somebody will regret it.

Demi

I would tell myself to study more and get more information on scholarships and grants.

Amanda

I would tell myself that while your a senior, look at the bulliten board and apply for as many scholarships and grants as you can because college is not cheap. There's classes you have to pay for, books, labs and anything extra you might need. When you get to college, ask for help and take it seriously or you will be working on your degree thats suppose to take you two years and is now taking you four plus years.

Luis

Dear Student, Slow down. I advise you to take a moment to think about what you are dreaming of doing. Those lofty ambitions are great and you can acheive what you are dreaming of. The key to be successful in your academic career is for it to be well thought out, critically evaluated, and ask questions ! The value of sage advise from people close to you such as relatives, mature friends, and school staff is priceless. Those who have experience in the work force and/or college can provide so much insight in what you will soon commit to. Yes it is a committment. The decision you will make is serious and it can be an expensive "reset button" if you make an iladvised choice and need to start over. However, this is no reason to worry. Once you know what you will do with this education and begin your college career, it will be an amazing and unforgetable experience. There will be opportunity to meet new people, learn new concepts, and soon after earn great money! Take your time, think about what you will do with your education when you've finished, then just do it.

Tracy

I would do what I did - I waited to go to college until I knew what I wanted, had the real world experience to appreciate the coursework and the maturity to handle it. Sometimes going to college directly after high school isn't the right time and only ends up becoming a stress and struggle to get through and get good grades. Too many times parents put too much pressure on their kids to go to a certain school, go for a certain degree, etc. It's ultimately up to the student to decide when they are ready, where they want to go, what they want to major in - it's their life that will be effected by this huge part of their life. Not everyone is ready or wants to attend college.

Kristin

Never as a teenage did I think the choices I made would mold my future. High school was more of a social hour than anything else. Instead of studying and concentrating on school, I was more concerned with getting out on my own and experiencing life. Missing out on the college experience of living in a dorm, attending football games, and pledging to a sorority is something that can never be re-created. I decided to put my education on hold so I could work full time. I always assumed it would be easy to go back. I did not plan on the uphill struggle that I have encountered. Now older, with responsibilities like providing a roof over my head and food in my stomach, I am finding that I wish I had buckled down and concentrated on my studies when I was younger. I have made my life a great deal harder than it would have been if I had only just applied myself to my school work. If I can give one piece of advise, it is to stay in school. Sometimes its seems redundant and mundane, but it is the key to your future.

Laila

I would definitely be a lot more focused. Because my head was somewhere else, I took a couple classes here, and a few classes there. Before 2009, my track record was spread out and inconsistent between 2002 and 2006. That was four years of time that I could have accomplised a bachelor's degree! So as a senior I would definitely have an actually plan and stick to it, because I didn't have the mindset that I have today, I could have had my master's by now. Now I am 26 determined to obtain my associate's and go on to the next level. It's never too late to go back to school, my mom is in her 50's working on her bachelor's at UNLV and is determined to pursue a PHD, but the key is, are you willing? It takes a will and determination, determination I did not have before.

Christopher

If I could go back and talk to my high school senior self, I would advise myself to apply for any scholarship there was, reguardless of the requirements. I would also advise myself to do all homework, any extra credit, and seek help whenever I had a writting assignment.

elyse

As a high school senior, I was not thinking much about college--not the say I should have been. I knew my parent did not have the extra money to put me through school, so i did not try to get into any schools. I would tell myself to do well in class, apply for any and all scholarships that I could get my hands on, and save money for tuition. The one scholarship that I was able to get was the Millenium Scholarship. My grades were good enough to get more, but I never applied. That was probably my biggest mistake. Even when our teachers would tell us about grants and scholarships, I was good at toning it out. I had a job from the time I was sixteen, and I should have been thinking about puting myself through college sinse I knew my parents would not have the means to do it. Now, looking back, I would have saves every penny that I earned so that I do not have to be constantly looking for places to save money now. Also, college has been no picnic. I would remind myself that the work is not easy, but possible.

Cherisse

Of course never having any regrets about my senior year in high school, I would like to, however, give myself a little advice. "Cherisse, it would be a smart decision to enroll in the high school college program. There are many friends of mine, as of today, that are doing just that. They are accomplishing many of the classes I am currently taking, but they are getting dual credits for college and high school, at the same time! You could say 'killing two birds with one stone', figuratively speaking of course (I know you would never do that in real life!)."

Chanel

If i can go back in time, and talk to myself as a high school senior, i would tell myself that i should be thinking about what i want to major in. When i was a high school senior i did not think about what i wanted to major in college. I had no clue what i wanted to do. I was confused like most high school students. So when i first started to go to college i decided to just do an associate of arts -general degree. That was the biggest mistake of my life. I took classes like psycology that i did not need for the degree that i am earning now. After about a month of being in school i decided that i wanted to major in business. Knowing what i wanted to major in as soon as possible, was a big relief. It saved me time and money. I would tell myself as a high school senior to decide what you want to major in before going to college, because it will save you a lot of time and money. That money i could have spent on taking classes that i need for my business degree.

xiaojiao

Study hard and play hard, serve your community as much as you can.

Michelle

"Michelle, you can do so much better. Go for gold and don't be afraid to fail; take much more challenging classes and assert yourself to the greatest extent. Don't ever hesitate to ask for help; asking for help doesn't mean you're weak, admitting defeat and not getting up again is. If you are so jealous of other people's success then look forward and fight for the top ! You live to the fullest as to not have any regrets, if you don't go big now, you'll look back and kick yourself knowing you could of and should of done better. Never think that once you make a mistake, everything else will go wrong; we learn from them and grow. You won't be just anybody, you will a Somebody. You are strong."