Fresno Pacific University Top Questions

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

Laura

I would give the advice that I should have layed low and focuesed more on my studies and less on the drama that was cirlcing around me. I would advise to not worry about what people thought about me and would advise to not date either.

Benjamin

Younger Ben, Don't worry about college. Is it hard? Yes. Is it going to take a toll on you? Yes. After all the growing up that you will do over the time you're in college (and out) you will realize that college, like most things, is scarier going into than it deserves. You will do well, you will enjoy yourself, and you will learn more than what is taught in class. Stop worrying, enjoy yourself, and don't let Nick talk you into stupid things after happy hour. Older Ben

Yana

Start your application as earlier as possible. Go to your counselors for advice how to process all the things you need for the collage. Try to join the club about colleges. Fill out FAFSA at January. Try to fill out as much scholarship applications as possible. Make an orientation as early as you can. Be a good student, take your education seriously. Don’t be scared, good luck.

Breanna

I would tell myself to make sure to complete any unsatifactory grades I have in night school so that I could go to a stat university whether it be a UC or a CSU. I would also tell myself to make sure I know what I want to major in before school starts otherwise I would be wasting my time. Also, I would tell myself to go to Fresno Pacific University which is the school I am curently attending because the staff and faculty are just amazing. They try and help you when they can even though at times it takes them a while to get back to you, but it would be all worth it in the end with the quality of education that you get there with as many recommondation that I have heard about the school from alumni.

Tabitha

Be prepared to work very hard, high school does not prepare you for the amount of time and work it takes to be a successful college student. You will have to sacrafice a lot to succeed but in the end it will all pay off.

Sirley

It is never too early to begin your scholarship search. Educational debt is no joke and it adds up fast. It is tough but your education is always worth it so begin saving early and start on your scholarship quest as quickly as you can. Small scholarships are worth a lot when added up and can help with smaller expenses so do not be discouraged. Every dollar counts and will go a long way.

Kensey

There is a lot of advice that I would give my high school self. I would tell myself that it is important to create good time organization. Along with that I would tell myself that in college the professors expect more of you, so that means you have to really pay attention. You cannot expect to pass your classes; you really have to study for the test. It is important for you to be willing to share your stuff with others. When you live your roommates you will share your hair products, and anything else they need to use.

Sirley

If I could go back in time and talk to my high school senior self, I would tell her to follow her heart. It sounds cliche but if your heart is not in the right place, in the place that makes you want to learn, that makes you want to get up everyday and strive on to reach your dreams and goals then you will be utterly miserable. Don't feel like you have to feel pressured in your college decision by your parents, your siblings, your friends or anyone. The only person who should choose where you're going to college is yourself. This is one of the biggest decisions of your life and if you are not 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} sure and happy with it, it is not worth it. Don't focus so much on what others think or feel, but instead leave your inhibitions behind and love yourself. Overall, please, do what YOU believe in because in the end, only you truly know exactly what you want.

Kandace

Where do I start with answering this question? I couldn't begin to imagine going in time and talking to myself as a high school senior. But if I would, I would tell myself to never give up no matter what happens. Knowing what I know now about college life and making the transition, I would tell myself that the road is not going to be easy. In the words of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes Competitor's Creed: "I give my all - all of the time. I do not give up. I do not give in. I do not give out. I am the Lord's warrior- a competitor by conviction and a disciple of determination. I am confident beyond reason because my confidence lies in Christ. The result of my efforts must result in His glory. " That is the advice that I would give my high school senior self. It may not seem like much, but there is only so much that I could say in so many words.

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If I could go back to my senior year in high school; I could tell myself a lot of things to do in order to be prepared for college. Though, the number one thing that I wish I could do over would be more interactive into asking questions and to get to know the teachers. Here, at college it is so important to get to know the professors well because they want to get to know you and they really want to help you. In order to do that students ( I ) have to be the fist one to take the first move to ask question. They do not know if you are struggling or not. Getting to know the professors is a really important thing to do in college.

Amanda

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself many things. First, I would tell myself to not go to college for the social aspects. Honestly, if you go to college just for the social aspects and not for school, you will fail. Next, I would tell myself about time management. While in college I have learned that time management is key, whether it is to study for a test or just to do homework. Finally, I would tell myself that college is the final steps before a career. This step is the most important step of your life. It could either make or break you in the career world, so you need to be at your top game.

GaNaisha

God has a plan for everyone's life and doesn't put us in a situation without equiping us a means of getting through it.

Kaitlyn

Dear Kaitlyn, You have just finished your freshman year in college. Knowing what lies ahead, I want to offer some helpful advice. Your senior year goes by quickly, so savor every spare moment you have with your friends, many of which are moving away for good. Study as hard as you can, and be ambitious and sign up for more AP classes (they'll save your parents so much money in the future!). Focus hard on cultivating healthy relationships with those around you, but be mindful that sometimes heartache happens...but you'll only find college so much more rewarding. Laugh every moment you can, and take the time to show others how thankful you are for them. These are the people that will be there for you when college gets stressful. Spend some extra time with your dog Max, you won't get to see him much once you move out...and before you know it, he will pass away. Time moves quickly in college, so learn to prioritize better and manage it in high school. Your teachers will have prepared you well academically, thank them for that. You are bright and beautiful, dont ever forget! -Your future self

Elizabeth

DO not procrastinate and never think you can no accomplish your dreams! Because you can! you are stronger than what you think.

Erica

College is nothing to play with. You have to be on top of things, don't get side tracked because it will catch up to you. Study is the most important thing and doing your homework. It's ok to have tutors helping you. Even the smart people have tutors because sometimes they might need help with something. The professors will be there to help steer you in the right path for your career. There will be peer-pressure, but don't let that affect you. Asking questions is a good thing when you don't undertand information. Don't sit back and not say anything while you are in college. Its ok to talk, but you also have to remember that there will be times when you want be able to talk. Just remeber to be there person you are now and not let somebody try to pursuade you to be different. Your good behavior and attitude towards others is what is going to carry you through college, life and your career.

Kailey

If I could go back in time to tell myself in high school what it would be like in college, I would. I remember being very anxious and scared about the life ahead away from home. Looking back I would tell myself to work hard and take a deep breath. College is not as hard as I once thought. I would tell my high school self that you can do it! Change is good. You will meet now people and make new friends. Some things will change like the amount of money you have to spend and the ability to go wherever you want, but you won’t be bored. Living on campus opens up all sorts of doors for activities and socializing. The choices you make will become your future, but you will make the right ones. Although life is scary you will make it and become the best person you can. Have faith in yourself and stand strong in you belief. You will be a friend to many and learn about life like never before. Be strong. You can do whatever you put your mind to. You go girl!

Abigail

Do not worry so much about the small stuff because in a few years it just will not matter. Focus on being the best you can be and do not let others tell you who you are...that is something only you can decide for yourself. Do not waste your time with people who are fake; you do not need them because you can do better. Find your true friends and never let them go because they are truly far and few between. Try and not get so caught up in the inevitable drama that occurs so often in high schools. Make time for your family because they are the people who will always be there for you, no matter what. Try your hardest and always give life your best shot because it will be worth it. Life is a journey so learn from it; there is a lesson in everything that occurs in life, do not waste them.

Elsa

The best advice I would give myself 16 years ago as a a high school senior would be to prepare yourself for college and continue your education right away. It is much harder to go back to school when you are trying to support a family. Education is very important in order to have a stable career, especially now. Prepare yourself to either learn a trade, or obtain a 4 year degree to be the most marketable. Grades and accountability do matter, so maintain your grades and be responsible about attending classes.

Kathleen

I would tell my high school self that the transition to college will be the doorway to adulthood and real life. All the people and drama of high school that seemed so vital and mattered so much, will become a distance memory. Knowing what I think of myself will mean more to me in college, than what others thought of me in high school. Important things that are taken away from high school will be some foundationals in education (you will have relearn them!) and a lot of memories of great times with friends (some you keep, some you don't).

Kourinthia

My college experience started out somewhat lonely. I tend to be pretty intraverted so I was expecting it to take a long time for me to make friends. Now I have so many friends that are dear to me that I couldn't imagine how I had ever felt that way. Everyday I see new opportunities to make friends and to share my faith with my community. I have gotten so much out of my short time at Fresno Pacific University that I could never see myself going anywhere else. I am truly proud to call myself a Sunbird and to wear that Orange and Blue. Living in such a close and caring community has allowed me to find who I am without the worries of what those around me might think. There is no pressure to conform and no need to be an outsider. Fresno Pacific University is inclusive and holds no ideas of prejudice. Although it is a private Christian university it is not exclusively Christian so it allows for a sense of diversity. Fresno Pacific is a place of warmth and deeper, higher learning.

courtney

i have been at FPU for 6 weeks and i have grown as a person and as a child of God. in high school i would procrastinate everything at FPU i hav learned the importance of getting assignments done when they are assigned. if i had gone to another school other than Fresno Pacific i would not know what i am majoring in this soon into the year. im taking JCC, Jesus and the Christian Community, and we had to take an aptitude like test that told us what out strengths are and what we should major in a well as what kidn of job we should pursue. my professors are all kin and strong men and women of God. they go beyond the book in their teaching, they bring God into the classroom through their actions and words. they dont shove religion down our throats but show us Gods love by acknowledging each of us as individuals. all my professors know my name. FPU makes me feel like i am an important figure in this world rather than ust another person to walk their halls. i am becoming a strong, kind leader and figuring out who i am.

Ashliegh

During my senior year in high school all I could think about was going to CalPoly SLO. I wanted to leave the area and get away. Through random chance Fresno Pacific University contacted me. Thier swat team member convinced me that FPU was the place for me. Looking back at that last minute decision, I can see that although I did not think it through properly, I made the best choice of my life. If I knew then what I know now, I would tell myself a few things. I would be informed that being at a secular school has down falls. I would let myself know that being at a christian univeristy would enhance my faith and not test it. I would also tell myself that I will not have to be afraid of falling away from God but to get ready to receive more of him.

Zack

kEEP IT UP WORK HARD YOUR GOING TO BE GLAD YOU DID

Chad

As a high school senior I would tell myself that money is a necessity in college and to apply for multiple scholarships. I would tell myself the importance of pritorities and make sure I am well organized in my academics. I would also get a job in the summer before I attend college to try an earn money to purchase books. I would tell myself to not stress out about school and to have some "me" time every once in a while. College is going to be overwhelming at first, but as long as I take one step at a time I will be fine.

Lonette

If I could go back to being a high school senior, I would set more goals, both short-term and long-term, in addition to meeting with the guidance counselor often to discuss all available options. Taking additional college prep math and english classes is a plus. Visiting colleges and universities that one is interested in allows one to explore campus life and academic offereings in person versus viewing it through a pamphlet or brochure -unless this is the only current option. Participating in college fairs and presentations are a benefit. Search for colleges that offer extra-curricular activities and service clubs to help one become a well-rounded individual. Be involved. These activities allow one to meet many people with diverse backgrounds and experiences that one can use to network throughout life. Make friends and acquaintances. Take a course at your local college to get a feel for the workload. Talk to other students and ask lots of questions. Discuss instructors; ask why or why not they enjoyed a particular class. Networking is a great resource -never discount small tips that may lead to greater opportunities. Sometimes the window is only opened once -take it and enjoy the experience.

Katie

Find a college that provides the best opportunities for the field of work that you are interested in.

Vivian

Find the college that is right for you by taking into consideration things like class sizes, financial aid, statement of beliefs of the school, housing, and programs the school offers that might exceed those of other schools. Than find out which are more important than others, and rate the school accordingly. Visit the school, and get a general feel of the people. The school should feel natural to be at. It is not only a place to have fun, but to study and/or a place to live.

Erin

Find the college with and excellent program in the field you are interested in. Also, find one that offeres finacial aid. Do not not attend a school because you can not afford it. Be aware of the neighborhood around your campus.

Sarah

Find a school that protects your child from harm but allows them room to learn and grow for themselves. If you can find a school where you can feel comfortable even on the first day visiting, that is a sign that you will be comfortable enough to step out and get involved. Even though private schooling is expensive, the smaller class size and the community feeling is such a great part of the college experience. I have loved getting to know students in my classes, and appreciated the enormous amount of care and time the professors give at Fresno Pacific. Be sure to become a part of as many things as you can handle, because the social and life lessons you can learn are just as important as the academic ones.

Andrew

First and foremost, both the parents and the student should make a list of what they want in a college. The reason I say both parties is because, even though the parents are the ones paying the bills, the student is going to have to go to the school and thus needs to enjoy going there. They should know what type of environment they thrive in and also have some sort of idea of what they want to do in the college. As the student, setting a goal for yourself is the first step toward a successful college experience. However, you must also know that college is an experience that is different for everybody. It's full of ups and downs and everything in-between. Choosing a college and making the most out of the experience you get is all based on the attitude you approach it with, when you decide the school your going to enroll in. If you approach it focused on the task that you will graduate and make lifelong friends, you will succeed. However if you approah it as an everlasting party that doesn't stop, you will find it a tough road to finish out.

Emily

There is so much pressure to go to this school or that, so my first word of advice would be to not be too heavily persuaded by teachers and other students. It is YOUR choice. I implore you to make sure the school you pick is best for YOU. Also, don't push aside the opportunity to go to a school near your family and stay on campus. It is true that you might be annoyed by them, but it is SO nice to have somewhere to go on weekends, have a home-cooked meal, and do your laundry. That's right, live on campus. The commuter's life is so different than a resident's. The best times of college are those spent in the dorms, with friends, and at the most random times. :) Students, challenge yourselves!!! College is the best time of your life and you will make memories that will last forever...you, however, will also find that these years mold you the most. When you are challenging yourself, don't forget who you are and make sure that the person you are becoming is one that you will be able to respect in 20 years!

Jake

If you already know what subject or what your career goals are in life, then I'd say go to the college that has what you want. Even if the college private/expensive one or even if it's across the country, go to it. Help will always be there to guide you, whether that's family, financial aid, or your religious preference. In my case, God. Then once you find your college and you enroll and attend it.....GET INVOLVED!!! Play a sport, join a club(s), work with the student body, find an on campus job, or do something and have fun! By fun I don't mean go out and party and play video games all the time. But when you have finished with your studies, make friends and go to the men's basketball game and cheer them on. Live your life in college! It doesn't last long and make the most of it! About the video games, you do need "you" time so do partake in that, but of course, do that after you've gotten ahead on work that needs to be done. Do your work and really......GET INVOLVED!!! Trust me.

Michelle

Make sure to read the school newspaper, they are usually written by students and you can get a good feel for the general population and what happens on the campus. If you can just spend a day at the school observing what students do on a regular basis, a lot of school have overnight previews also. Once you get to school, do your homework but make sure that you get out and have fun sometimes too.

Amy

Honestly, choose what feels right. Get to know the colleges your thinking about attending. Take tours, get to know some of the financial aid people. Ask lots of questions; anything that will help you get a better idea of where you are going and what your looking for in a school. College is an important experience for anyone and everyone, and you really want to get that one school right the first time. Of course, there will always be alterations that need to occure, but seriously, get the feel for what your looking for and what school has it all. Remember, the schools are wanting YOU to choose them based on what you like about it. Never feel pressured to go to this place or that place, especially if your unsure. Ask questions, be sure! And go where to you want to go, because choosing that special college just for you, will lead you to the experience of the rest of your life.

Alan

No matter what people tell you, the opinions that you get, or the testamonials from students at different universities, you have to find the college or university that fits you. You know you're own needs, boundaries, and career goals, and despite what others may tell you, they don't know as well as you do. It's so important to choose a place where you feel comfortable learning. Visit all the colleges that you think you want to apply for before doing so. Make the effort to get to know the school that you will be paying for the next two to four years. If you don't feel comfortable at a specific one, then toss it out the window and don't give it a second thought. Your life is about YOU not about your parent's alma mater or the school your friend is going to. This is the time to make your own choices, so start with the school that you're going to aquire the tools to use for the rest of your life. Remember, only you can make you really, truly happy.

Zach

The #1 thing to look for in a college is the fit, both academically and socially. I have attended several universitys and finding a school that fits is key. If the academics are too low or too high you will not have a good time in college, reguardles of the social aspects. Likewise if the academics are just right, but the social aspects are sub par then your college experience will lack. There isnt one mix that is best for every single person. Fresno Pacific University was the right mix for me, but I know a lot of people that Fresno Pacific was not a good match for. Visit the school talk to the students and professors in order to gain the best idea of how the school will fit you, and good luck with your college search.

Karen

Visit as many colleges as you can before making a decision :)

Sabrina

When you are going to choose a college, make sure you do a lot of research on the college before you actually apply to the school. Also make sure that they explain the payments very thoroughly. Make sure you have the money saved up before you go to the school.