San Jose State University Top Questions

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

Daisy

My name Daisy Osorio and I am 22 years old. I am a single mother of two beautiful kids that are 5 and 3 years old. I graduated high school in 2005 and started to work. I always wanted to go back to school but just did don?t think it was that much of a big deal. I started school on January, 26. 2010. I enjoy every day and see my self succeeding in the future. My kids look up to me and I love them for that because they truly are my inspiration. I want to have a better future for myself and for my kids. This scholarship would be gratefully appreciated and I can really benefit from it. Being an unemployed single mother of two is hard and I need all the help I can get. Everest college lifted up my self esteem and made me believe that I can do better for myself. The teachers and staff are really nice and help me with any problem that I may have. I never thought that I would be back in school. Everest college was recommended by my friends and they also have a career now.

Deonte

College so far has been a great experience for me. I more independent, more mature and Im learning so much. I love college, I cant see myself anywhere else. Im looking forward to my college future where ever im at.

Sara

Through my college experience I have gained a true never ending passion for what I want to do with the rest of my life. I transfered to SJSU knowing what I wanted to do but not knowing that I really loved to do it. Loving my career is what my college experience has given me. Finding what I love to do has helped me learn a whole lot more about myself too. To go onto the career path that my classmates and I are embarking on, we cannot be weak-minded people who scare easily because we made a mistake. Through the internships provided by my college experience I have figured out about myself that I am a person who can learn from her mistakes and move on. My college experience has also given me the chance to be an active member in the community through the student organization I belong to. The value of providing for your community is without parallel. College, I've learned, is a place where students can really get involved and gain an understanding of how much one person or one small school organization can make a difference through their compassion for others.

Bethanne

What I have gotten out of my college experience is that at no matter what age you attend there is always more to learn and change in you life. A carrer is the best opportunity there is you just have to want it bad enough. To be given an second chance to do something different is a blessing. So take the time to go to school it will no be for naut.

Roberta

I have gained many things from attending college, one of the most important things I have learned in college, has nothing to do with the classes I am taking. I was homeschooled from sixth grade, till my highschool graduation, and college has taught me how to interact with other students, and all other people as well. College has also taught me a lot about learning, you can't go to class and fall asleep in the back, and expect to get good grades. College is work, and sometimes it seems to be too much, but I believe that is what makes it so rewarding. Seeing an "A" on a paper, or a test, makes you feel so good, because you know you worked hard for that grade. College has taught me to show pride in the hard work I do, and it has made me realized that my time and effort is worth something. Going to school is a choice you have to make every day, it would be easy to sleep in, and not go to school. However, getting up and getting to school not only helps you with your future, it also helps you become a dependable adult.

Ian

My college experience has taught me how to be successful. I am a full-time student and I work thirty or more hours per week to barely afford each school payment. Every day is the same; work, class, and study, because that was all I had time for. After repeating this cycle I realized I do not know the people that I live on the same floor with in the dormitories. I regret not reaching out and meeting new people I live with, to gain valuable experience. I have learned to be a part of where I am and make the most of every situation I am in. While putting myself through college, I learned the true value of hardwork as I do not have a car, I am under-paid, and I succeed with a 3.95 GPA as I continue my college career. I took the oppertunity at the beginning of this semester to introduce myself to people who live on my floor and I now have many friends who relieve the stress of my busy life. College has taught me how to function as a person in the real world; the society we live in today.

Christopher

If I were given the opportunity to travel back in time, despite any of the theoretical consequences that supposedly come along with time travel, and give advice to myself as a high school senior about making the change in lifestyle from being in high school to being in college, it would be to remain focused and keep my head on straight. I would tell the high-school version of myself that although his way through college would be partially paid for, that it would be wise to save even more money, just in case of an emergency. Most importantly, I would make sure to instill a greater sense of responsibility into my high-school versions persona, so that he would be able to limit the distractions that are bound to affect him as a college student so that he could accomplish what he initially set out to college to do; and that is to receive a higher education.

Sarah

Knowing what I know now, of course I would have much advice. For instance, I'd tell myself "don't put those boots on the credit card! You'll be paying for them for the next ten years, but only loving then for the next ten minutes." Or I might tell myself "don't go party the night before the BUS189 final, because that grade drop will be permanent, but making out with that hot-tie, who never called you, was temporary." But when I really think about what advice I'd give myself, it wouldn't be how to avoid this, that or any stress from college life. Although everything that made college life stressful was hard; it was something I overcame, and in effect, it was something that prepared me for the "real world." All of this taught me to make sensible choices, and better decisions; and that a mistake is only a temporary problem. No, if I had the chance to talk to the young me, I'd let them know that no matter what happens they will be ok and to cherish every moment of college, because later in life, they will miss it.

Tonia

I would say that there is no such thing as too much information. Information regarding colleges and taking the time to sit with admissions has been a learning experience and helped me to understand many important issues I did not realize before speaking to various colleges' staff members. I would say that speaking to every person about their jobs, what they do and how they achieved their career goals is important to someone who has yet to enter the workforce. On line information is a wonderful option today that should be jumped on as well. There are government sights that provide invaluable information regarding countless job titles, duties, pay rates and more. Also I would tell myself to get on the ball asap! The quicker one starts seeking this information, the more time a young person has to process this new and large sum of information!

Amy

Hello Amy! I know you have not had to work hard to get good grades in high school but if you want to get into Veterinary School after receiving your degree you need to learn how to study! Put extra-curricular activities aside for a year and focus on being the best student you can be. Do not rely on anyone other than yourself! You cannot let anyone stop you or lead you away from your goal (even those people closest to you). Do not forget to make friends! Amazing grades are great but you need to be able to take a break every once in a while and enjoy college life. Never think you are alone. If you open your eyes and move away from your comfort zone there are people and activities everywhere that can enhance your life. Live your life to the fullest and do not forget that this is your one chance to experience everything that a youthful life has to offer and become the person you want to be. You can do it!

kimberly

The advice I would give myself has everything to do with my success in my current major. I am an animation/Illustration major, which is a very intense and time consuming program at San Jose State. Our program is very based in classical art training including drawing and painting. As a high school student I was gifted in the arts and enjoyed having that creative outlet. However, I was not as focused on learning how to draw. I thought I was already fairly skilled and did not comprehend how much I needed to develop my skills and further my studies as an artist. I would have loved to have the opportunity to go through the rigorous art training in high school that I have had in the animation/illustration program. I would be well prepared for my current classes in order to prepare myself for an internship and, later on, the industry as a visual development artist. The five years that are required for this program are not nearly enough to hone the skills I feel are necessary to be a complete professional that is prepared for the visual development industry. Time is of the essence.

Robin

I would like to go back to my junior year and try a little harder to get better grades so I could have gotten into a UC school but I know that my parents could not have paid for it but maybe I would have been eligible for more scholarship money. 3.5 isn't bad but the competion is really rough. Also I would have taken my SATs over to try and get a better score. I just felt I was going to have to go to a State school because of money soI didn't try so hard.

Jennifer

I would tell myself that since I am very attached to friends at home, to try to stick a little closer to home. Being 400 miles is tough for someone who doesn't make friends as easily, but if I am up to the task I will feel very rewarded once I stick it through and graduate with my new friends around me. I will also remember to tell myself to continue being involved in school activities such as clubs and a part time job and to not be scared away from sororities. It is good to look at all the options available when choosing a college and think carefully about what you are looking for in your college of choice. I made the mistake of limiting myself and expecting to get into a different college but plans changed. These are a few of the things I would tell myself as a high school senior.

Roberto

I will let myself know that I should not settle for less. That college is an experience that I have to due to mature; however, the college I will attend with aid in that maturity. Also to do more research in the school that I wish to attend and to not just jump into any school to finish college.

Jessica

I would tell myself a couple of things. The first would be not to give up and get distracted. I would tell myself to remember that my parents work really hard to provide me with the opportunity to attend school. I would also tell myself to go to the library more often. I would say, ?Jessica I swear you need to go to the library to focus because it will help you, It might sound boring but in time you will like it, I promise!?. I would have to tell myself that the feeling of success because of hard work and determination is the best feeling and it would avoid unneeded arguments with my parents. I would tell myself to remember I am lucky and to take advantage of my education and that life isn?t worth wasting time. And I would tell myself if I didn?t work hard sooner it would happen later with a family tragedy anyways.

Brenda

These few months that I have been in college, I have experience some difficulties that thankfully I have overcome. And if I have to go back in time and give my self advice during my high school senior, I would tell my self to analyze the readings that have been given to me. Also that when reading an article or book, to comprehend and to look deep inside for the meaning the reading. I would also tell my self to be organized, current, connected, outspoken, and to take learning seriously.

Leilani

Do enjoy your senior year in high school, but remember the importance of your future. Don't limit yourself to only one or two colleges; instead research several schools and actually take the time to look at the different programs they offer. Also, understand that in this process you should research the professors in the field you wish to study, and see if they offer research opportunities to undergraduates. You should also try to learn as much as you can about the school you're planning to attend. Look at tuition and the cost of living, at what kind of environment the school resides (including the weather), the programs offered, the location of the school, the availability of transportation, the size of the school, the school?s population, etc. Go through all these aspects of attending college, and actually visualize yourself there. Then ask yourself if you?ll enjoy it and if it?s the right college to assist you in achieving your goals. That?s the advice I?d give myself, if I could go back in time.

Samantha

If I had the opportunity to go back to high school I would have to tell myself to be more ambitious. I regret settling for easy classes because getting an "A" grade meant nothing if there wasn't any hard work. If I had the chance I would have taken classes to improve my math and English so that I wouldn't have been stuck in remedial courses in college. I would advise myself to get out of the idea that my last year in high school should be a breeze, when really, it is the year to prepare myself for college. I should have spent senior year meeting with my teachers for extra help instead of avoiding them when they were there for me. I would have told myself to stay in my math class senior year so that i wouldn't have forgotten simple equations. If i had the chance, I would have told myself to act like a college student and to take my education more seriously than I had that year.

Tamaraleah

If I was given the oppurtunity to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to avoid credit cards.

Tran

A high school senior excited to graduate, I totally understand but college is not what you think it is. It is not all about how wasted you get at parties, the jocks, the girls, or anything like that. College is like driving your car. You are in full control and held responsible for your actions. You have responsibilities. You have deadlines. You have to study and learn on your own. Your professors are not your teachers - they are lecturers. They lecture on topics that may help you comprehend the assignments and it is your job to learn. They do not care if you learn the materials or not, but they will guide you if you ask for assistance. Office hours will be your second best friends. Your teachers in high school knows you, but professors will not remember you unless you make yourself known. Upon driving the car, no matter how safely you drive, an accident may occur. These "accidents" can be falling behind in a class or two, missing a deadline, or something out of your control, but no matter what, persevere. Driving this far, there's no turning back, no "i can't's" just I will.

Gretchen

When I was in high school, I hadn't chosen a career to pursue yet, and so the first advice that I would given to my younger self would be to think long and hard about what it is I want to do with the rest of my life. Once you figure out what you want to do then you can start taking the appropriate classes. It took me a couple semesters in college to figure out that I wanted to be a Psychologist, and so I feel like I wasted a year taking classes that I didn't need to when I could have just been taking Psychology classes. I?d also tell my younger self to take school seriously. Do all your assignments and never miss class because the things you learn in college are the things that you will need to know in order to thrive in your career, and so it is important to your future that you learn everything that your teachers are willing to teach you. View every homework assignment given to you as a learning opportunity to gain the knowledge that you will need to succeed in both your career and your life.

Cheryl

I would never want to go back to being a Senior in High School!!! I think that the most important thing that I would have liked to have told myself is that no matter what, there is life after High School. That maturity does not come automatically at different ages/grades in life. I would have told myself that it is okay to stand up for your morals and beliefs, and even though you may be lonely at times, it is only one small stepping stone in the larger picture of life. Knowing what I know now about the behavior of Freshmen in College, I would have become a bigger advocate of Students Against Drunk Driving for High Schoolers. I would have told myself to always remember that there is a bigger picture outside the walls of High School and learned how to relax a little, as there is enough time when I am older to be serious and mature.

antonio

To be able to go back and talk to myself as a high school senior would give me huge advantage over other students going to college straight out of high school like i did. I would tell myself to apply for scholarships all sorts of them. I would tell myself that its rough not being a wealthy kid in college, and there will be many obstacles in the way of my dream. I would encourage myself to be motivated and that there is always options in life and that there are dead ends. I would have told myself to join the military sooner than later. Maybe me going back in time and talking to myself wouldn't have changed a thing. I feel i became a good man going through what i had to.

Joseph

Mencius, a Chinese philosopher, once said, ?Friendship is one mind in two bodies.? An individual can justify the discarding of his or her own self importance, not through rationality, but through the inexplicable human desire to obtain a certain connectedness with another human that we call friendship. A true friend is a rarity that I took for granted when I was a senior in high school; my friend, Matt, got a great deal of recognition as my best friend, but, since we would be going to different colleges in fall 2009, I always convinced myself that our friendship was disposable, nay, recyclable, and I would find an equally good, if not better, friend in my new journey. As I sit here, presented with the opportunity to conversate with a younger, less wise, high school Joe, there is but one notion worthy of divulgence: cherish the friend you have; the trust you have in him will prove to be one of the most valuable assets to your later life, for you have found a fantastic person that will be there for you in times of sorrow, joy, and loss; a friend like Matt will be there for you perpetually.

Robby

If I could go back in time and give advice to myself, I would tell myself college is not like high school, I have to invest more time. I would tell myself to invest as much time as possible in all the college paperwork, to do more research on majors and the requirements, and to plan everything out carefully. Even though I spend a lot of time, I need to spend more time because it will make my first couple of years in college much easier. I would tell my younger self to understand what classes I need to take but to never take more than 18 units in one semester. Another important thing would be to sign up for more scholarships because many of them don't take much time to sign up for and it is a lot better than taking out loans that include paperwork anyways. I would also tell myself that I need to look into housing in San Jose early and to go up to the city a couple of times before I start school. Possibly even consider staying in the dorms for at least the first semester because it would make the transition easier.

Jessica

As a high school senior, I had no idea what I wanted to study as I entered San Jose State. I spent my first three semesters undeclared, but making sure that I got my G.E. classes taken care of. I think what I lacked as I made the transitions was a sense of the fact that four years was not a very long time, and I feel like I should have spent more time in the begining of my college career trying to discover different majors and really find something I enjoyed. If I could go back in time, I would have chosen a minor to broden the knowlede and experience that I had at SJSU. As someone that went on to work in the field that I majored in, I wish I would have spent more time trying to absorb knowlege from all of my classes, instead of studying just to pass a test or write an essay. I find that now in my life I really miss the opportunity to learn.

Alexis

I would tell myself to plan for college and not just assume everything will flow once college starts. First, get a job and start to save money for college expenses because everything will add up, such as coffee, gas, books, and parking permits. Second, look into housing options and make a decision that is affordable and comfortable because the dorms are not cheap but do give the college experience and living at home is cheap but disconnects you from the campus. Third, look into the aspects of financial aid and get to know what options are out there and what stipulations come along with each option. Lastly, once you choose which college it is you are going to attend become committed to the college, research the college, and figure out where you can fit in at the college. By this I mean look into which clubs, organizations, events, and social activities best suit you and can become part of your college experience and can make your college career the best it can be.

Gabriela

If I had this possibility, I'd tell myself to not take on too much my first semester. I'd say to not be afraid to ask questions when something is unclear or to even get help such as tutoring if needed. I'd tell myself to find the most effective study method for me and follow through with it, not get side tracked with other things. I'd convince myself to spend wisely, college students rarely have much money to spend and they must decide whether something is worth the cost or if they can use their money on something better like textbooks or school supplies. Most importantly I'd tell myself to stay focused 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of the time, and although things will get rough, to not lose sight of the goal which is graduation and that Bachelors of Science Degree.

Raisa

I want to change the world. This near-idealistic positive attitude that I can achieve that goal is a result of a life-changing experience at the Leadership Today Retreat. The intense workshops, activities, and discussions on discrimination (e.g., racial, sexual, financial, physical) broke me down to tears. After the four days, however, I learned that I needed to break down before I could build myself up. I needed to witness the effects of not speaking up, not taking action, and most importantly, not educating myself on local and global such issues. Education is often thought of as math, science, history, and English. In its Latin root, however, education can also mean the step out of darkness. One form of darkness can sometimes be ignorance of the dynamics in human interaction. If my Canadian study abroad experience made me want to help others, Leadership Today made me realize I NEEDED to help others. Undergraduate studies may be a time to become an ?expert? on a subject, but it is more importantly a time to become a better citizen. In addition, it is easy to think, but it harder to act. College is a great time to act against discrimination.

Disa

I would tell my senior self to keep my job at Mervyns for the first two years because it would have been consistent income and it would be hard to find jobs. I would tell myself, to get involved my first year. By getting involved I would have been more exposed to other students on campus. This would have helped me make more friends and get advice on my career path. My freshmen year I hung out mostly in the dorms with other freshmen students, while it was a good experience it was not all that fulfilling. I would tell my self to apply to the international house to get to know students from around the world. This would have prepared me more for my exchange experience. Lastly I would tell myself when you think you have problems with others such as roommates go and seek advice from consolers or from someone you find you can get advice from. By doing this it would help in distressing yourself and figuring what the problem is. I have enjoyed my experience in college but with advice like this would have made the transition just a little better.

Carlos

If I had the opportunity to go back the first thing I would tell myself would be to start being more organized with my time. Having to go from a daily schedule to an every now and then schedule, was a big change for me. I wasn?t used to having four, one hour classes one day and then having no classes the next. Another thing I would tell myself about being organized would be to set times to study. College courses definitely require more time not only in the classroom, but also outside the classroom. Finally the last two things I would tell myself would be to get ready to gain weight and to deal with a roommate. Buffet styled cafeterias are amazing but it is important to make sure not take advantage. Eating healthy is really important, especially before having an exam or when having to stay up late studying. Lastly I would give myself I heads up on buying some ear plugs. Your roommate can be a great person, but unfortunately you can?t pick their schedules or their habits.

Pauleen

I was the shy, awkward girl sitting in the back of the class in High School, unable to raise her hand even though she knew the right answer. Memories of class presentations include sweaty palms, nervous hands, and trembling knees. I was never able to speak up in class discussions or stand up for what I believed in because I thought I didn't have a voice. Going to college, however, changed my perspective. In my first semester, I decided to take a public speaking class. As much as I dreaded the thought of speaking in front of an audience, I took it because I felt it would change me somehow. Taking that class helped me to gain the ability to speak my mind without fear, allowing me to become a stronger person. I finally found my voice. This new-found confidence allowed me to meet people I would be too hesitant to talk to before, to survive my first job interview and get my first job, and break free of my shell. I wish that not only in senior year, but in all my life, I hadn't been afraid, and known that I had a voice all along.

Max

I would tell my former self to work harder in school and not be so educationally laid back. I would tell my past self that the work that he does affects his life in a huge way later on down the road, hard work always pays off in the end.

Christopher

College is going to be a great experience because of the higher education and environment. Through the amazing culture of college I will be able to accomplish my goals in life. My goal is to become a civil engineer. I strongly believe in creating a better society by helping who are less fortunate than me. Through my education, I hope to get one step closer to making a real difference in the world. I plan to become a civil engineer so I can use my talent and love of math and hard work to build homes for families in need. Someday, I also hope to travel to Bolivia to build homes for the poor families there too. Enjoy everything you do, be wise about the situation and learn from them.

Julia

As a returning, adult student, there are a million things I wish I could tell my 18 year old self. I think the most important advice I can offer is this: Don?t feel the need to rush. College classes are more challenging than anything I took in high school, even the honors and AP level courses, so it?s important to start slowly and get your bearings. Even if you feel that you know exactly what you want to do when you graduate, and exactly how to get there, start with a few less units than you think you can really handle. Get your GE requirements taken care of first, and actively participate in activities related to your major; test the water slowly, don?t overload yourself, and take every opportunity given to experience your chosen field. It?s not a race; it?s preparation for the rest of your life.

Mary

The first thing I would tell myself is to consider going to a community college for a year or two before jumping right into a 4-year college. It will help to lessen the amount of homesickness. The second thing I would tell myself is that although it's nice to be on my own and away from home, remember my first focus should be school. Just because it's your first year doesn't mean you can goof off scholastically. Two other things I would have to remind myself are not to get depressed over private loans and find a way or place to relax and clear my mind. For the remainder of my year I would tell myself to value the friends I make freshman year. I would remind myself to get involved on campus. I would definitely tell myself to learn the art of networking because it will eventually become a life necessity. I will need to learn how to budget and manage between working, going to school, and being a board member for an organization. The last bit of advice would be to always make time for myself.

Jessica

As a current freshman in college I would tell my high school senior self to stay open minded while transitioning to a new place. While it was difficult to move away from friends and family, dorm life becomes easier and soon starts to feel like home. Let yourself figure out who you are and what your morals are. You may come across people who live with or around you that you may not get along with, but you have to realize that in life you will be around people that you would prefer not to be. Lastely I would have to tell you that it is necessary to enjoy your college days. Make sure to stay on top of your school work, but also make sure to try new things and be open to anything. Since you will be living around all new people it is an oppertunity for them to teach you new hobbies and interests that you may want to keep for the rest of your life.

Veronica

Study and know that people who are giving me advice have been there and know what it is to be in your position and they are trying to help you out.

Michael

I would help more around the house like doing simple chores like washing dishes and clothes, dusting house, vacuuming and other stuff because thats all you do in your dorm, apartment or suite. I would have had more efficient and better study habits cause college involves hours of studying a night. I would diet and eat healthy with exercise because its all on you to stay fit and healthy because bad food choices are all around along with too much time is spent studying that we dont take time to exercise and keep our muscles and heart in shape! I would buy the necessary supplies of fridge, laptop and tv so i wouldnt about late in game. I would work more often to have extra money in my bank account for housing, meal plan, book expenses which drains families!

Latosha

I would tell myself that applying for scholarships early as possible is important so that you can have more money for school. Also that saving is important and that other people can influence you in negative ways that will cause you to spend foolishly. Also that if you are going to stay on campus then you should not go home all the time because it can effect the friendships you are suppose to be trying to build. Work study is also something to look into before all the jobs are taken beacause with all the college expensives you are going to run into will add up.

mark

I would tell myself to apply for more scholarships, so you can start being independent and find a way to live on campus. I would also tell myself to make as many friendships as possible so that when times get tough you have friends to help you and be there for you. With all the new knowledge i know now, I would tell myself to go for degree for Sociology and never give up on getting a degree, without one you will be nothing, so always study and work hard for the goal. As well dont procrastinate.

Katherine

If I could go back, I suppose I would tell myself not to worry so much. Transitioning to college life, or, making the transition to anything unknown is scary. But, after you've gone through it, after you've had to deal with your new roommate who isn't everything you'd hoped for, and found all your classes without getting too horribly lost, and made it through the first week without losing your mind at the daunting task, you realize it wasn't as bad as it's cracked up to be. I would tell myself to not worry, because in this school, all they want to do is help you. There are posters in the dorms telling you what to do if you get locked out... (which will happen at one point, don't panic), the teachers want to help you succeed, and there are plenty of people to meet right outside your door. There's friends waiting to meet you, there're people waiting to help, and there's a nice psych major you're going to meet in the Dining Commons. Just remember to call mom often, and do laundry occasionally. You'll be fine.

Joseph

It is May of 2007. Joseph, a high school senior, is sitting outside while worrying about college. Suddenly, a man appears from nowhere. ?Hi,? the man says. ?I'm you from the future. I'm going to tell you about college so you don't have to feel so distressed; does that sound alright?" Wondering if he has been getting enough sleep, Joseph of 2007 nods his head and urges his future self to continue. "Well, I've learned much more in college than I ever learned in high school. I remember waiting for the bell to ring every day in high school; nowadays, I'm often too focused to realize when class will end. Also, there is a lot of reading in college. Be sure to find a quiet place to read so that you can retain the material. Next, it seems harder to make friends in college classes since more emphasis is placed on the teacher's lecture and less student interaction occurs. Try getting involved in school activities so that you can meet your peers. Most importantly, don't fear college; worrying about the future is common, but often completely unnecessary. Good luck in the future!"

katja

The key to being successfull is to always stay on top of your assignmnets and work ahead if possible. Dont procrastinate and do it now so stress can be avoided in the long run. Sometimes assignments wont turn out but do your best anyways and take it as a learning experience and move on to the next one.

David

I dream about this opportunity every day to be honest. If there was a chance to go back in time and in a way "peer-counsel" myself, my one piece of advice would be, "Don't sell yourself short." I would tell myself that even though your parents say that a private school is out of the picture, spend the 80 dollars for the application just to see what kind of grant or scholarship you might be eligible. Not one day goes by that I do not regret not applying for a private university. I would tell myself to push hard these last few months of high school and do not listen to your college counsellor when he says that you are a shoe-in to the majority of the schools you are applying to. Do not rest assured because in this day and age, nothing is for certain (especially university admission). I would tell myself to enjoy the last days of high school because college will be quite the transition. Above all, my last piece of advice would be to establish your personal integrity and no matter what happens in college, do no forget where you've come from.

Shelby

I would tell my past self a lot of things to better prepare myself for college; stay focused for the remaining high school year, save up more of my money from my part-time job, apply for more scholarships. And I would probably advise myself not to take a certain class that will remain anonymous. But I think the most important thing I could possibly tell to my past self would be not to worry so much; college turned out way better than high school. College is harder, with more work and challenge, but is ultimately better than high school.

Sophia

I would tell myself to be more out going and meet all the people on my floor during the first few weeks of school. I only met a few people and stayed friends with them when I should've kept meeting other people just to know more people. I would also try checking out the greek life a little than completely abandoning the idea of joining a sorority. Lastly, I would say talk to my professors more during their office hours because they are all good people that want to help students out. Just know what you are going to talk about when you arrive to their office hours.

Trevella

Sign up for every scholarship you can get your hands. Also managing time in college is going to be a good thing. Find your study habit and mastor it. When the road gets tough don't buckle under the pressure.Compose your-self and keep going.

Lindsey

I would tell myself to look at the amount of students going to the school. I would look at distance, because I went 6 hours away from home and that was tough. I would also say think twice about going to a public schools because budget cuts are really bad in the State of California right now and that really interferes with getting classes and other things. Also it's important to understand that going to into your freshman year of college it can be a lonely time as well as stressful time and it's going to take a while to feel comfortable at your new school.

Mariza

If I could go back to my High School senior year and advice myself of the transition from high school to college I would say "Keep working hard for all the work you are doing would help you in the future". High School and College are completely different in many different ways. In High School one is very dependent on their parents while in College one must start doing their own decisions that could be poor or good decisions. These decisions are part of one growing up. There is more liberty in many areas from parents, but one must be careful. An example would be grades parents are no longer monitoring so one must be checking and making sure they are not failing. Also books in High School you do not buy while in college they cost a lot. Work hard during High School and do not give up because working hard has good rewards in the end.