Texas Southmost College Top Questions

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

Michael

I would tell myself to choose my major carefully, to look ahead and envision what kind of future I want to have. Ten years ago I wanted to become a musician, but listened to advise of those, who suggested that musicians are unable to support their families. Instead, I have graduated with an accounting degree, and spent the last seven years making a solid salary. I am currently an unemployed full-time music major student. I know that it is likely that I won't ever make as much money as I used to, I am broke, but I am doing what I love and I am happy. I just wish I did it ten years ago. I am looking at my classmates, who are 18-19 years old and see them waisting time, not studying, and failing classes. I try to explain to them, that this is the time of their life, that there won't be another opportunity to dedicate 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of their time to studying, that they should spend these 4 years wisely and get as much as possible out of them. I wish someone would have told me that when I was in high school.

Ruby

Be smart about life. Time will still pass. The friends that you have now will more than likely not be with you in 10 years but your education will.

Jennifer

I would have taken college courses while I was in high school. I really feel now, if I would have taken some college courses it would have helped me get ahead and given me an insight as to what it would be like. I also think it would also help in adjusting in the transition from high school to college.

Josefina

Honestly, I would advise myself to have increasingly great time management. Being able to organize my time was one of my greatest hazzles as an undergraduate student. I would also tell myself to try harder, read more, and ask all the questions I can. There's nothing wrong with asking questions, in fact it helps to know that you may not be the only one with that question. Another word of advise would be, get involved! Participating in the school organizations was a great way to network, meet new people and enjoy new friendships. I would also tell myself to get a reality check, because college is a great experience but independence is key and it is nothing like high school! I guess the most important thing I would remind myself is to study hard, enjoy the experience and meet new people.

Karla

I would advise the high school version of myself to keep up the good grades. I would also tell myself that the transition from high school to college is not tha hard is just takes time and hardwork. Finally I would adivse her that it does not matter to which college you go to, a college education comes with no price for your future

rebecca

The best advice I could give myself would be to take a deep breath and then jump in. I say this meaning that do not let the pressure of scholarship and college deadlines get to you. Once you have taken that breath then jump into the fun side of going to college. Enjoy the visits to the colleges and the seminars. Take your time with meeting other college students and find out what is the best thing about that college. Once you have finished witht he fun stuff, it's time for the hard stuff. Get some help when the scholarship essays get to much. Talk to friends and teachers on the best way to organize everything. Apply to several colleges, it never hurts. This is what i would let my past senior self know.

Jacob

I f I had the opportunity to go back in time and talk to my high school self, this is what I would say. "Life is amazing. There is no reason to assume that it isn't and there is definitely no reason for any discouragement. The future is bright and full of wonderful opportunities, so long as you seek them out. These future opportunities will be greatly enhanced as you are dilligent in your future college education. Work hard in school and your dreams will become a reality. As you know, there are many negative aspects of life all around and there are difficulties that will come. These should never cloud your mind or stop you from seeing the wonderful positive things you will be a part of. More importantly, these negative aspects of life should never stop you from realizing your full potential. Look at the negativity as an opportunity for learning and growth. You have the capacity to do anything you want. Work toward your dreams and do everything in your power to accomplish them. In particular, work hard in school, get the training you need and be successful! Keep moving forward; you will reach your goals!"

Brittany

Develop good study habits and take your grades seriously! Start learning how to save money. If you dont already have good eating habits start trying to develop them now. The one most important skill to have in college is time managment. Learn how to balance school work, sleep and social activities. Once you get to college, get involved; there are hundreds of student organizations on campus, utilize all that money you're paying for tuition. Network and make connections with alumni and professors, you never know if you might need them in the long run for a letter of reccommendation or a job. College isnt cheap so once you get there keep searching for scholarships you can never have enough free money.

Chantal

If I could go back to my high school years, I would definitely have some advice for my high school version. I would advise myself to keep up the good grades in school. I would also tell myself to take AP, and Dual enrollment classes, since those classes would help us to be prepare, and ahead during our college years. I would also tell myself to do things on time, and to relax a little bit, since the applications to enter college may be long, but not difficult. I would also let me know that are many ways out there that would help you to pay for college, and follow your dream to get into graduate school; all you have to do is apply.

Bangelis

i would say to myself probably as many others would..."bangelis, i know parents can sometimes be annoying when they lecture you, but as someone who truly cares for you and your future, i advice you to stay focused on your education because life as you get older, gets harder. the real world isnt as nice as people make it seem, if good things happen to you its wonderful but if its bad, its experience and nothing is certain in life..only your education. so stay in school, go to class do your homework so life wont b that hard on you."

Wenshu

I would definately tell myself to "open your mind". Don't just spend time in reading text books! Place yourself in the real word and connect yourself with the society. Knowlege can be gained from sources other than schools and books. Watch more news, educational programs and read more books! Good grades only tell one persepective about success and there are much more than just a good grade. Challenge yourself and go beyond. I would also tell myself don't spend all of you time just studying. Go out and have fun with your precious friend also! Don't loose contacts with them because it's not worth it.

gerardo

The first piece of advice I would give myself would be to consider my academic strengths, to think of what I am good at and choose a career based on that. I would also advice to choose a career based on tha passion for that field and not just on the prospects of a better future income. I would tell myself to be more academically responsible and never let good grades slip past just because of procrastination. Finally, I would advice to engage in scientific research (which I do at the present time) at an earlier time, as a freshman even, and to go on and participate in more summer internships at labs in other major universities.

Samantha

Knowing what I do about college life there are a few things I would tell myself. I would make sure that I worked harder in high school. It's not necessarily a perfect reflection of how you do in college but developing good study habits early is definitely important. I would also tell myself to get involved more. There are so many organizations out there to help out and so many things to do that it's great to help out. Making the transition from high school to college can be difficult. Instead of getting up early every morning and spending all day in school you get to pick your schedule. It makes it a lot better since you don't have to go every day and you can sleep in if you want but there's also no one telling you to get up and go and no one calling home to tell on you if you don't show. College requires a lot more ambition and personal motivation than high school does but being able to pick your classes and your class times is definitely worth it.

Dinique

I would tell myself to constantly apply for scholarships before I enter college. Do NOT wait until my freshman year. It is really as expensive as everyone says and financial aid doesn't pay for everything. I would tell myself to always ask questions. Never make assumptions. I would advise to not take out a loan unless ABSOLUTELY necessary. Don't be afraid to get help. It would behoove myself to follow all of this. Go to bed on time and wake up on time. Never skip any classes, no matter how late I am. Only withdraw from a class during "Add/Drop" periods. And above all else, don't take so many classes at once. Take my time with my curriculum. I have 4 years at least. I don't need to rush in order to get all the necessary credits.

Javier

I am proud to be the first member of my family, and as an immigrant from Mexico City, to enroll in college. I have gone on to encourage others to enroll in college who have my similar background, including my sisters from Mexico. I believe that through my example and Latin American heritage, I can teach my children and those around me that although the path to college may be difficult, it is not impossible. Better quality of life when you have college degree education. You make the difference in your family and friends, that in the end of the day will be imitate your path of education. It really matters education to be successful in the market, with education background you are more allow getting better position in organizations. Unfortunately, organizations looking candidates with good educational background, working experience, skills and the key to have all this accomplish is the education. Depends in some cases when student needs to paid from the pocket of their parents need to made an effort to cover the expenses to help their son/daughter to received an college degree that in the future help them to accomplish their goal in the life.

Kassandra

"Kassandra, you need to start going to class and paying attention," I would hear this all the time from my parents.teachers, and even my friends. I never really cared but now that i know how things are so different it is very eye opening to me how i slacked off so much in high school and how taht has affected me today. It was so easy for me just to procrastinate or not even show up to class because i know how easy it would be to tll a lie and be able to get the job done later when i wanted to. Well college is such an eye opener on how no one cares if you do it fine if not well fine. I would just say to myself that it was time for change to become better suited and more prepared for college.

Sara

If I were able to go a few months back to when I was a high school senior my mentality over how I think of college life would be very different. A college life takes a lot of responsibility and knowledge, it’s not like high school. The choices I made as a senior in high school has affected me, financially. I procrastinated to the point where I only got one scholarship, knowing I could have done better. I am proud of myself for achieving top 10{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of my class, but never took advantage to apply for scholarships. The first advice I would give myself is not to depend on others to prepare myself for college. Being in a mentality where I would think others would encourage me to do better, when what really matters is what I would think and the way I would encourage myself. If I knew how college life and the transition would be like, I would have prepared myself months ago. It takes responsibility, punctuation, discipline, seriousness, and the courage to achieve your goals. Things I never practiced or took into consideration as a senior in high school.

Evelyn

The number one thing i would tell myself to do is to take more dual classes. Dual classes could have saved me a lot of time and money in college. I would tell myself to try harder in school and to do more community service so I could get more scholarships. I would also tell myself to be in more organizations because all of these things count for college and scholarships.

Brittnee

If I could go back to my senior year of high school I would tell myself to do just one thing different. Senior year I was rarely in class after the New Year began. With senior privileges I was released from school early everyday but at night I was in night school trying to graduate early. I would tell myself to stay in class and not be in the hallways or in the principals’ office helping them when problems occurred. Although I am very educated and know a lot about the things I am learning in college I believe that I would know a lot more if I actually sat in class and actually listened. I started that year off as a junior and by late October I decided why come to Meadowbrook next year for 2 classes when Night school is free and I have time on my hands since I did not have a job. Knowing what I know now I am determined to change everything I am focused, in class when I’m suppose to be, devoted to passing, and getting my degree in the Medical Assistant field.

Anna

If i could go back in time to highschool, I would defenitley advice myself to read and studdy more often. My senior year went pretty fast, and even though I had struggles here in there with a couple of my classes, i had what is known as "senioritis" bad. I really did slack off and did not put much effort into my studies. I regret not studing and reading as much as I should have.

Abby

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school student in general, I would definitely tell myself to be more focused in school. As a high school senior I worked as hard as possible to graduate, because the years before I had slacked off and let my social life become an obstacle for my passing grades. Slacking off clearly didn’t lead me to the right path. Seeing how things are now that I’m in college, I would continuously without a doubt advice myself as a senior to enjoy school a lot more. Education is needed in every aspect of life which opens doors and opportunities to new things and helps you obtain a career later in the future.

Judson

Having spent seven years in the Army, I would have told myself that joining the military was an honorable thing to do and that I should still join and serve my time. I would, however, emphasize the important benefits of actively perusing an education while on active duty. The benefits include the development into a well-rounded and disciplined individual who would be more capable of making educated decisions. Education will also open numerous opportunities that will lead to greater financial success. Completing a degree will also make you a much more marketable and competitive individual in the job market. Furthermore, the idea of college may seem like a big transition or even a scary thought, but I assure you that it is not as bad as it seems. College is designed to prepare us for a successful future. By simply applying yourself, you will find that you will be very successful with college and in every aspect of life. College is a minor stepping stone that will allow you to maximize what the future has to offer. Relax, apply yourself, and take that step towards expanding your opportunities and success in life!

Melissa

Making the transition from public high school to a university is not easy. At first, I believed it would be great, and I would finally be on my own without the rules of my parents. The truth is I did not really comprehend that fact that I would be on my own. In college, if you encounter a problem it's up to you to fix it. My advice would be for individuals to remember you must still study, and whenever possible to obtain a job because college is definately not cheap.

Victoria

I have gotten a lot out of my college experience, but the most valuable things are the knowledge and the independence. Now that I'm in college I am responsible for my own work and grades. I used to get help from my parents from elementary all through high school, and now I do everything on my own and I work hard for it. Although the classes may be difficult and at a fast pace, I have learned a lot. Not only do I know more than I ever have before, but I am using it in my everday life and it feels good to know that attending college is paying off. Choosing to attend college is the smartest decision anyone could ever make because, just by registering for one semester and taking it from there, you have an opportunity to succeed in life. All the time I've been here has been valuable to me and anyone who chooses to enroll will have no regrets whatsoever.

Ashley

I haven't really gotten much of a "college experience" because I still live at home, but college is very stressful. High school is super easy compared to college, and very different. What Iv'e gotten out of my college experience is that you really have to work hard and study your butt off to reach the goals you want to achieve. It has been very valuable to attend college because in this economy you need a steady paying job and an education can get you there.

Nora

I enjoyed my college experience because I got a chance to meet many interesting people. I also participated in civic engagements that made me feel part of the community. In addition, my college experience prepared me for a successful career and a bright future.

Marco

Collage is the key to success. Millions of students in the world will attend collage to achive success and only a few will do it becuase it is hard to be successful. I think i am molding my success thanks to my collage education. I have learned how to be an educated individual. Also, my university has tought me to be constant with my studies. However, it is hard work and attending college is teaching me how to make hard things successful for me. I am a collaege student and i want to be one of those students that will master the hard tests in collage in order to gain a successful life,

Joseph

Coming from a migrant working family I have always been pushed to achieve the best. Thanks to the love and support of my family and friends I continue my education so I can become someone in this world. My parents have tried to help me in any ways possible from financial wise to mental support. Even though we are not financially stabled and I had to go last semester without my books because we could afford to buy them and gather a loan. Something like this hurt both my family and I but I still strived to pass my classes without my books and was glad to pass and show that no matter what I can succeed. I continue my education so I can become an officer of the law and help the community the way it has helped me.

Joarib

I get alot of advice to continue college

Stephanie

College is a wonderful learning experience! I learn new things everyday; the satisfaction of knowing that no one can take the knowledge I accuire, makes it all the better. I love the fact that college not only teaches me the subjects, but also about life. I always believed college was going to be so hard, and I have to admit I was a little scared to start. In my personal situation, I attend college(UTB) far from home (Dallas), and it was pretty hard in the beginning, but this experience has made me grow as an individual. I have become more independent, and that I feel, is one of the asspects I value the most from attending college. Its not like school, here I have to work for what I want, because in the end if I don't take advantage of the opportunity that is laying right in front of me, I will be the only one losing from it. I will never regret making the decision to go to college, and hope to accuire a career as an Accountant thanks to my college education. Before college, I always wondered why everyone loved their college years, now I know!

Renee

My college experience has been everything I thought it would be, and nothing I expected. I was a Catholic missionary last year, and although it was a life-changing year, I was eager to pack up my things and start college. The word "choice" has been a theme for my year so far. I was quickly told that doing well in school was my choice, and although I was told in High School, these words rang loud and clear. It is my choice to particpate. It is my choice to attend class. It is my choice to do the assigned homework. With these choices, the professors take a step back and propose their point-of-view to provoke thoughts make me think about what I really desire. It is my grade, my expierence. Not theirs. I have recieved a new appreciation of self- discipline and it has been very beneficial to my growth personally, and I am humbled because I can finally see that I have so much to learn. College is challenging, but is neccessary for growth and wisdom; not just in academics but for the life that I will enter into in four short years.

Hanz

During my time attending at The University of Brownsville I have learn allot of valuable skills and experiences that I will never let go. At the age of 22 I started attending the university with allot of enthusiasm to get started on my career and after 2 years I can say that I am equally excited about learning and getting the opportunity to learn and better myself in every way. My experiences at this university have been very remarkable. It really has shaped me in a lot of ways. I am more aware of goals in life that I have set. It has helped me stay on course with all my daily choices. Also I have been commuting 1 hour on a city bus to get to school since I’ve started, which has been a good experience because I had meet a lot of people that mention the same thing of value in the opportunity of getting an education. I have become a much more responsible person and I feel like my studies are preparing me for any obstacles that I come across throughout life which to me is the most valuable thing that I have . Thanks

Courtney

Out of my college experience I have gained responsibility and knowledge. I have gained responsibility because unlike high school, there is no one holding your hand to make sure you are doing what you should be doing. At college it is all up to you. Likewise, I have gained knowledge that I could not gain anywhere else. Not only have I gained knowledge in school subjects but I have also learned a lot about myself. It is valuable to attend college because it is an experience that you will never forget. College will prepare you to suceed at a career that you will love. In other words, college will prepare you and help you move out to the real world. I love the experiences I have had at college and wish to continue to have several more college experiences in the future.

Jose

My college experience has been an incredible one. I started wanting to be a medical doctor, and have turned 180 degrees in wanted to pursue a PhD in molecular biology. Entering college is really a path of self discovery, and I have done just that - I have learned more about myself these past years than I ever really knew. The amount of knowledge I have gained is unreal, and I have met some of the best friends I will ever have. Nothing can substitute the college experience, and I would absolutely recommend it to anyone. It truely is invaluable, and I would tell anyone that is contemplating whether or not to attend to not think twice about it. Being able to affect peoples lives in such a profound way, and have them affect mine, sets me up for some of the greatest realtionships I'll ever form. From my professors to the students, my dean to my research mentor, I have been shaped for the better. I am so grateful to be who I am today, and plan on continuing my education (towards a PhD) due to such a wonderful experience.

mauricio

My college experience gave me a better understanding of the phrase, "education is the key." during my college experience I saw many students drop out of classes and cashing their big financial aid checks. Dropping everything to purchase cars and audio systems and even dropping everything to obtain a girlfriend or just be part of the in crowd. What I got out of my college experience is the oposite to what I have just described it thought me that obtaining the "A" will get me my diploma. Which eventually will lead me to obtain that car my friends had with chrome wheels and an audio system but a much recent year and model. It thought me that school is like a work place differences being student desks, homework, and no secretaries. That respect in the classroom is earned the same as in society. It is valuable to attend because it molds you so you can be successful. It also helps in overcoming adversity. In the end it helps accomplish the last part of Maslow's Hierarchy of needs which is have i been successful.

Rosalinda

I have really had a great experience attending the University of Texas at Brownsville. I enrolled into this university in the spring of 2006 for the first time in my life since graduating from high school in 1983. It was difficult for me at the beginning since I had to refresh my memory after so many years away from school. I am majoring in English Language Arts/Reading and I have had so much fun in reading and studying with some of my classmates. I have made quite a bit of friends along the way and it has been great meeting and interacting with my professors as well. Most of my classmates and my professors have been very helpful and I now realize how important it is to enroll into college immediately following high school graduation. Although a few of my required courses have been challenging, I have learned so much along the way. I now realize the importance of continuing one's education and striving to improve our lives by reaching our goals. Hopefully one day soon I can improve a child's life by helping them to reach their goals and become productive members of society as well.

anthony

what i have gotten out of college was that i really believe i have found the right career for me. i found the thing that makes me happy, the thing that will make me love my future.

ana

It has been valuable for me to attend this university because it allows me to avoid becoming another statistic in the system. Being a 20 year old hispanic female, living in Brownsville , tx, a town declared to be "the poorest city in the United states" I have much more motivation and passion to become successful in life, as well as exceed all the expectations the community holds for me. Getting my education here has allowed me to exercise my talents and give me hope for a better future. The teachers are dynamic and engaging, staff also awares me of new job opportunites or internships that allow me to get more experience and thrive as a psychology major. My interest to study psychology has been fueled, leaving me to want more each day. I have faith that I will accomplish all my goals, to show that people of my race and economic status have just a good of a chance as anybody... to be who they want to be, and most importantly... that we are capable of living the american dream.

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Guadalupe

As a recent graduate of the Vocational Nursing Program, I now have the foundation in my career to support myself and my family. Being raised with minimal resources and lack of funds, I can now proceed to help those in my community based on the principles of nursing I have achieved. The knowledge and abilities to recognize the signs and symptoms of many diseases and understanding the disease process, will allow me to achieve my dream to become a Nurse Practitioner. This will allow me to further diagnose and treat the members of my community or travel to other areas of the United States were my help and knowledge will surely be needed. The ability to identify a major health issue in a stranger and provide a cure or treatment is ultimately the greatest satisfaction to be achieved. Living as a nurse, I can assist people of all origins in living a better, healthy lifestyle. The joy of a nurse, living for the service of others, and allowing hope to shine in any new patient.

Lorena

What i have gotten about my college experience is that it takes hard work and determination to get up everyday and go to class and get things done . This has made me a better person in a sence of independence and leadership that i now have. Studying everday for classes is hard work but its work that im willing to do because i know that it will pay off at the end. When i have that four year degree and a good paying job. School is helping me reach my potential in things that i never thought that was possibe but am now finding is possibe because i did it with hard work and dedication that i put into my studies. Going to the University of Texas at Brownsville is the best thing that i can say has ever happened to me it helped turned my study habits for the good and is helping me reach my goal semester by semester a degree in psychology so that one day i can help someone else out and that im glad for the opportunity.

Miranda

While attending college I have been opened to new ideas and news ways of looking at all aspects of society. I have learned the discipline needed to get ahead academically as well as socially. I never had a doubt about attending college, it has always been valuable to me. Attending college is a major step towards getting a professional career, and I have always had a set goal of becoming a nurse practitioner. This career goal requires the type of education I am recieving now and the effort that I am putting into it. I value my education because in the long run, it will strengthen my determined character and create my life's purpose.

Alex

I will be starting Rasmussen on Monday, August 9, to get a degree in Medical Assistence. I want to have an education that will help me gain a future job helping others. Going to college is different than High School, as I want to go to college. I am not being forced to go, so I am more willing to do the work and study harder. Right now, I am nervous about on line classes, yet I do know that Rasmussen provides a lot of support.

Francisco

I believe that I have grown and matured in many ways by attending the University of Texas at Brownsville. I have learned many things that I did not know of life. I have had the chance to interact with both students and professors in a mutual manner. I have learned to be more social and involved with both my community and school. I have learned that in order to achieve greatness and one's personal goals, one must exceed and even break out of boundaries to get there. You must be willing to take risk and put yourself out there in order to extract the most out of a great education. I have learned that you must be responsible, organized, committed, and above all disciplined to continue higher education. Surprisingly enough, these qualities are very similar to the ones that everyday people need to be successful once they graduate and decide to join the workforce.

Annaie

What i have achieved in attending college is to be a more dependable person and to think more realistic. Life is not about daydreaming, partying, hoping. but actually doing something good for yourself. Life is not a game and i have learned this because college has thought me how no one is going to be babysitting me. Im responsible for myself. What has been valuable to by attending college is the start of my career. My career will become my life and my future this is why it has been very valuable to me and my surroundings to attend college.

Catherine

My college experience has helped me become a better person. I have learned to communicate my needs, the values of honesty and integrity, and the meaning of selfless service by helping others within the community. Most of all, college has given me the insight to better understand who I am. I have discovered I am a person of great character, that I can overcome obstacles and persevere during difficult times. I have learned that no matter what a situation may look like, if I apply myself, I will reach the other side as a champion. I have been given the gift of friendship and belonging. I am able to not only mentor, but to be mentored. I have opened my heart and mind to the experience of learning, astounded everyday at the simple fact that the more I learn, the less I seem to know; inspiring in me the desire to learn even more. Attending college has offered many gifts – all of which are invaluable. It is an adventure that has to be experienced to be believed, which in turn offers another gift yet – gratitude.

Cristobal

I have received the knowledge and training in my chosen field which is radiologic technology. This particular field is growing rapidly and the program at the University of Texas - Brownsville is considered to be one of the best in the entire state of Texas. When I researched careers back in 2006 before I went back to school, I found that the medical field was rapidly expanding. The future looks bright for this field, and I wanted to get information about the Radiologic Technology program. I called the secretary of the department, and she was very helpful. She answered all of my questions and set up an appointment with the program chairman. I missed the deadline to enroll, but they decided to accept me due to my high grades and dedication. Mt college experience was unforgetable and I learned so much in those 2 years. I met friends that are kind and thoughtful, and my study habits dramatically improved. It has been valuable to attend UT-B because my program is one of the best and it's reputation preceeds itself. When an employer interviews a graduate from UT-B they know that this graduate is ready to excel at work.

Mayra

My college experience has given me a deeper appreciation of receiving a college education. While it may be easy just to attend class and quickly go home, the interaction that a student has with a professor in imperative to gain the most while in college. I graduated with a teaching certificate and believe that UTB taught me the importance of imparting that value of obtaining a degree to my students. I feel that the experience at UTB gave me the drive to want to achieve more out of college and return for my Master's of Education in Guidance and Counseling. I feel that with my Master's I will be able to reach to future college students much like my highschool teachers and college professors have reached out to me.

Justine

For many years, I resigned myself to the fact that "maybe I just wasn't meant for a 4-year college." School wasn't necessarily difficult for me, but I valued social relationships above hard work in school. Then my father died. My father worked so hard his entire life to afford me the best education possible; he wanted to see my schooling through to the end. Unfortunately, he was never able to, but his efforts really resonated with me, and I applied to college the following semester. I've maintained a 4.0 GPA so far, and I've used my father's determination and spirit as motivation. I've learned that it's possible to grow socially, emotionally, and mentally while still balancing an education. I think that's what I've taken from college so far: balance. I once spent a summer working 50 hours a week so I could save up enough money to pay for my classes the following year, and I currently work part-time while taking 19 units. And through all of this, I still have time for the friends who have seen me through it all.

Evelyn

In my one semester of college I have been through enough obstacles to want to keep anyone from returning to school, yet here I am in my second semester after completing last year. Out of my college experience, I have come to realize that it isn't as rigid or intimidating as our high school teachers tried to make it seem. The professors are very reasonable and are willing to work with almost anything that could be an obstacle in my road to success. In short, what I'm trying to say is my experience has allowed me to not be as stressed as I was before and now I can see the light at the end of the tunnel won't be so hard to reach afterall.