The University of Texas at San Antonio Top Questions

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

Morgan

My advice to myself as a high school senior would be short and sweet: be yourself! When I was a senior, I was pretty insecure and worried about making friends at my new university before I even stepped onto the campus. I used to worry about what people thought of me and getting the approval of others was at the top of my to do list. I had a small group of friends who cared for me, but that wasn't enough for me. Deep down inside, I wanted to be the person that everyone wanted around. Who doesn't? So, when I first went to University of California Riverside, I tried to see how many friends I could make. I failed miserably, and people saw I was trying too hard. I started swearing in order to fit in with some of my new friends and even considered drinking alcohol in order to have "friends." When I saw that I had to give up my moral values in order to have these friends, I realized that wasn't a good choice and saw that if you just be yourself, the right people will come around you.

JASMINE

The college envirionment isn't as difficult as previously imagened. Commplete your senior year calmly without the stress that college is going to be this difficult thing to concure in life. You can do it, its easy for the most part. However, keep in mind that studing for a exam the day before can be okay to do in high school but that is a different experiance in college. STUDY, and review the class note (those do help out a lot). It does seem intemidating to go up to the perfessers and ask them a question but don't let the fact that we are shy get in the way. Take a deep breath and enjoy everything on the way.

Rod

I know right now you have no clue of who you are or what you might in time feel true, But trust in you you're new real self and write of love and good of death and hope and light. The gift you have will wake when once you try the art and skill of word and thought; and die ... To live unchecked for naught but self is wrong You're young pent up and quick to join the throng. To find life's gift recall what you have felt In love in sport and song, and then just belt It out by hand with pen and ink and work. Dont mix the drugs with girls and play the jerk And dont you think so low of you who are, Dont judge yourself by bro or sis or car. Just live just be the man you know is true To life real love and oh, to find Thee Girl Just wait, dont fret in time she'll come. Your pearl will blow the hinge right off your mind; so wait and write. Work hard, but most of all, just write. (written right here right now by Rod Sachs -01272010

Leanne

Dont ease up on your studies, study harder to earn your grades and dont be afraid to apply for scholarships. The better your grades are, the more scholarships open up for you. Don't jump into a 4-year university just yet, get your associates at a community college and transfer in. Biggest thing: STAY A MATH MAJOR!

Christina

If I could go back and talk to myself when I was a high school senior, I would have told myself to not slack off my freshman year of college. I should have studied and read in advance a lot more for my tests. I would have told myself to save my money for efficiently. I would have liked to been more social and involved in more acitivites and organizations on my school campus. Although I had wished I would have done these things, I still had a pretty descent freshman year of college.

Jonathon

Don't assume that you will be offered a full ride to the college of your choice. It doesn't always pan out that way. You need to be prepared and apply for as many scholarships as possible. The worst feeling in the world is having to sign that master promissary note for a huge loan that you know you'll have to pay back someday. That will definitely cause you some anxiety. Don't be lazy. Apply for scholarships like crazy. No amount you get will be too small. Use it for books. Use it for rent. Don't be scared. Living by yourself and leaving everything you know behind is less of a big deal than you think. In fact, it's the most exciting part of college life. You were always an independent person. Now you get to thrive off of that independence and make something of it. You will meet some amazing people who will be willing to be by your side no matter what. When all else fails, just remind yourself that eventually everything will be ok. In the end, life always works out.

Erika

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to not be so nervous about the courseload and school work. Because I have always been a good student the classes have not been that tough. I would tell myself that the biggest challenge to college life is the actual academic part it is adjusting to the different atmosphere and becoming independent. It is important to stay focused and put my academics first and to worry about going out and socializing second. I would tell myself to not to get so consumed with the social aspect and try so hard to find things to do because that is apart of college life and it will come with time. I would also tell myself that time management and being responsible is a huge part of being a college student. There are so many different things to balance including work, school, social time, and deadlines for FAFSA and registration, but once you learn how to manage all things it will all start to work out fine. So take a deep breath, relax, and get ready for one of the best experiences in your life.

Natividad

First off, I?ve been telling myself for sometime, ?if only you?d had someone push you into filling out scholarships, you wouldn?t have so much debt right now. ? The truth is, I did. I had friendly reminders from the counselor, email notifications from the scholarship sites where I signed up, and the constant nagging of my dear mother. Everybody was pushing me, but I wasn?t in the mood for being pushed. My na?ve (and slightly irresponsible) self didn?t bother with all the scholarship drama, and just blindly trusted the government to provide me with all the money I would need to complete my studies. Please. If I had the opportunity to go back in time and have a talk with my 17-year-old self, I?d tell her to get real. No one is going to just hand you everything you need. You need to go out, look for it, and get it yourself. I?d tell her that it?s hard when you move away from home, to a new city, without your family or anybody to rely on. You don?t want to add penny-less into that nervous-breakdown-inducing equation.

Brandon

First of all i would stop myself in the hall, slap my past self in the face and tell him to get it together. In my senior year i slacked off way too much and barely graduated. I would tell myself to prepare for the hardest smemster of schooling in my life, and that if i didnt get it to some good study habits and learned to manage my time that i would fail my first real college smemster and worry my parents half to death. The feeling after you find out that you ve failed all you re classes because you treated it like another year of high school just drags you down and leaves you feeling defeated. Thats what i'd tell myself if i were to travel back in time.

Ashley

I would give that going through college is a self-learning process that includes looking at the individual self and figuring out how to play in the big world. In college you will be surrounded by cultures and people that are so different but yet so similar and I think that you would just have to find your little niche in the campus. While going through college it will be an experience in learning about who you really are, maybe finding out some things that have always been there, and creating some aspects of yourself that you want to be there.

Jessica

Don't give into the fast food and exceeding amounts of beer. EXERCISE and don't get off track of a healthy lifestyle.

Devon

If I were capable of going back in time, to offer myself advice for college and the future; I would let myself know how hard it is to choose the right college. I'd tell myself to obtain information on various options available to me early in my senior year, as well as determine what I would specifically prefer to major in. I would also tell myself to set a curriculum and adhere to a schedule that is not too demanding or too lenient. To keep a steady pace of work and to allow myself plenty of opportunities to get my assignments completed. I would also prepare myself mentally and emotionally for criticism, knowing that a major in the arts can lead to some heartbreak if not prepared for it. In short, I would give myself the tools I have attained from years of experience, as such advice would be invaluable to my college experience the first time around.

Dustin

One and a half years ago I was sailing through my senior highschool year. As a current college student, I am encountering several waves in this sea of academia. Although I had taken advanced classes in math and science to prepare myself as a Mechanical Engineering major, I have found out these courses taken on college level are very indepth and even difficult. I would advise my highschool "senior self" how important it is to actually read the college textbooks, and not to rely entirely on class notes and memory. I would also advise myself to be prepared to make classroom attendance mandatory, so as not to miss out on important information and knowledge necessary to pass the quizzes and tests. Probably the best advice I would give my "senior self" would be to do college homework assignments as soon as possible, and not wait until the day before or last minute. It is easy to run out of time, get over-whelmed or even forget about it. Reading the textbooks, being serious about attendance, and to always complete the homework assignments is a summary of the advice I would have given myself one and a half years ago.

Jessica

If I could give myself advice as a high school senior I would tell myself to not get ahead of myself and stay organized. I would tell myself to get envolved and stay on top of things so they don't pile up. Don't get overwhelmed and if you need help ask your Professor. I would tell myself to read my text book chapters before class and take good notes. I would tell myself to use the resources that I have available and try to stay ahead.

Ann-Margaret

If I could go back to anf rely advice to myself as a high school senior preparing for college I would tell myself to stay focused on my goals. I would tell myself to get organized before hand, and always stay one step ahead in my classes. Staying one step ahead would ensure that I would not fall behind in the readings. I would let myself know that it is crucial to do all of the readings for each class, and if I struggle in a certain subject to seek help from tutors. I would also let myself know that getting good grades, focusing, determination, and dedication are the things your should cherish most because they are what drive you to be a better person.

Remi

To my High School Senior self: Enjoy your time as a young successful woman, unaware of what is ahead of you. Which includes the hard decisions of which college to go to, which major to choose, as well as the choice of what you would like to do for the rest of your life. However, even though you are unaware of these life-changing decisions, be aware that what you do in high school influences you throughout college. So, take those hard courses BUT motivate yourself to try hard, and don't procrastinate! Study hard for those college acceptance exams! Colleges not only look at your grades but look at what you do for extra-curricular. Keep involving yourself in extra-curricular activities, which may include volunteering sometimes. So, don't get too involved in your social life. Remember FOCUS on the future but do not take the present for granted.

Caitlyn

Take the time to sit down with your counselor and discuss ?all? of your options. It?s okay to start out at a junior college and then transition into a university. And most importantly go to financial aid sessions, and apply to every scholarship you can, even though you think you may not get it.

Gabriela

I woudn't chance anything I considered myself a great student and I personally enjoyed my high school time

Crystal

College is just another step in life, but a life-size leap for a better future. I just graduated from high school last year, and already I am classified as a junior in college so this transition is nothing new. Having that said, one thing I would have said to myself is never forget why you are in college? Getting an Education, for a Better Future is my mission. This proposal must be tattooed in your brain and never be forgotten. Never forget who you are, remember your personal values and beliefs and keep up with your character. Another idea is that I wish I could have said to myself is enjoy the time in high school. High school is definitely one of the highlights of your life and I just wish I would have cherished them more . Since I was enrolled in numerous hours of college level courses I did not really have the high school experience so that is something I regret. On other note, being away from home has made me value my family more. Last year, when I was in high school I was so anxious to leave and now I truly miss them.

Mary

Make good grades, you never know if you'll be valedictorian and get a full ride somewhere. If you're able to take AP courses, take the test too. There's always the possibility that you'll make a good enough grade and get credit (i.e. wasting less time/money with core curriculum). Have an idea for your major. Do reasearch about a college/university that specializes in that major. If you plan on astronomy, it's probably not a good idea to apply for the Mayo Clinic. Apply for as much free financial aid as possible. Scholarships, GOOD. Loans, BAD. (Working for that diploma was hard, but imagine how much harder life will be when you're $100,000+ in debt from loans.) Seriously, noone pays off their loans right after they graduate...unless you become CEO of a company after the first job interview. Get experienced! Have a job in the field of your major. Geology - work for USGS. Nurse - volunteer at a hospital. (i.e. If you've been in school studying to be a rocket scientist, NASA won't care about a resume stating all the hours you've clocked in as frycook for McDonalds.)

Timothy

?So what made you decide to go to college after all this time?? My younger self asks. ?To start off with? I would say, ?College is a very different experience than high school. The subjects you study are important but just as important is the experience of just being there. It is a new environment controlled greatly by you. The longer I am there the more subjects I find I am interested in and it becomes harder and harder to focus on one path. There are so many wonderful opportunities available to me that if I could take everything I am interested in I would be there forever. Even at my age I can feel myself soaking up knowledge and growing intellectually by the day. It has been amazing and it is a great feeling. If you never go to college you will never know what you are missing. You could very easily go through life without knowing the value of the college experience. It really cannot be truly explained, it has to be experienced. College is an incredibly valuable experience, and you do not want to miss out on it?.

Brittany

I would tell myself to start saving money because books are expensive. I would also tell myself to study a lot more.

Jennifer

I would tell myself to not slack off so much in college like I have been, learn as much as you can in high school because in college its the same exact material except more in depth, harder and alot more boring. I would also tell myself to do as well as I can in school because my grades and future depends on it.

Nicole

College can be great. You are in control of almost all the aspects of your learning. Don't stress too much now because you have more time than you think. My advice would be to use this energy you have to plan everything. Even if you don't know what you want to do with your life plan what you do know. Set some short-term and long-term goals and write down steps you need to take to achieve each. This way no matter if you take a semester off or work three jobs your freshman year you have an idea of what you are doing and eventually want to do. The best advice I think I can give you is to figure out what you want to take away from college. You can do this by volunteering for different organizations that do things you are interested in. This is the best way to figure out what you really like. Also, give yourself variety. Finding out what you might be interested in and what your passion is are two different things. Seek and conquer; and you will find yourself involved and making the most out of your education.

Paige

I would tell myself, "Whatever you do..... do NOT wait a year to go to school!!! You will get caught up in doing nothing and will not want to go back to school. You have to stay focused and believe that you can do pretty much anything if you set your mind to it. The world is your canvas, and you paint your life the way you want it. Don't let people with negative thoughts get you down.. try harder and prove them wrong! Your dreams are not crazy, stupid, or unlikely. They are just jealous that you know what you want to do with your life."

Anne

Being a high school senior is bittersweet. As a student, you are probably taking the easiest classes, and enjoying your senior year to the fullest extent. During my four years of high school , I was involved in many organizations and honor societies in my school and was even part of the varsity tennis team. Even as a senior, I thought that if college was like this, it would be a breeze. What a rude awakening I would have in store for me. As I am writing this, I am starting my second semester at a four year university. I wish I could go back to my senior high school me and tell myself to not be lazy! Instead of people constantly reminding you to do this and that, college forces yourself to be responsible for everything. Even an easy class can become hard if one does not have the discipline and the responsibility to study and work hard. I would tell myself to remember that this is the real deal and there is no room for screw ups starting from teh very beginning.

Dave

I would tell myself to continue to work at your fullest potential and dont let anything get in the way of your dreams, you are not as far away from them as you may think. Anything is possible as long as you put your mind to it.

Gabriela

In high school, I was very pessimistic about college life because I assumed it would be no different from high school. If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would reassure myself that college will be a completely new and exciting experience. I would tell myself to be more prepared than I was and not view my classes with an arrogant or indifferent eye because college will undoubtedly be more academically difficult than high school, which I was not prepared for at the time. Also, the students i meet in college will be exponentially more open-minded and experienced than high school and not to just listen to them but learn from them as well. I would share this same advice with myself regarding my future professors because they will leave heavy impressions on my mind and decisions I eventually make. More than anything else, I would tell myself to skip over the big debate of choosing my major and simply choose English Literature from the beginning; surely, even as a high school senior, I will be able to understand the sense of that choice.

Paul

After seeing my first bill for attending college, I thought that this was only the first semester and I was already in quite a bit of debt. To this day, I have wished I could go back and put the forth the effort of applying for every scholarship and grant that was available to me. I have told my younger brother and friends still in high school to not make the mistake I did. I tell them to apply for anything they can. There is free money out there that is just for the taking; all the donors ask is that you put forth the effort. I now know the bills will only get higher, so I continue to hunt for every opportunity such as these to help pay for my college education. Regardless of the amount, a college student like myself knows that after seeing that tuition bill, every little bit helps.

Justina

I would tell myself to not be afraid to be who I really am. I was always afraid of showing people the person I truly am but since I came here, I have this mantality of not caring what people think. I wake up everyday happier and I'm laughing all the time. I just wished I wasn't afraid to show my true colors because i would have been so much happier during my senior year. I would also tell myself to apply for more scholarships!! Which is super important. I had to take out so much loans and I want to prevent that from happening again because I don't want to be in that much debt when i graduate. I'm glad that i went through it though because now I can guide my brother through his first year of college, I want him to learn from my mistakes.

Susan

I missed out on vital education years and potentially better earnings by starting my college education in my late forties. If I could go back to my high school days I would have sought out my guidance counselor and talked over what I needed to do to enter college. I would have discussed my GPA, what requirements I needed to enter college as a freshman, what schools would have been a good fit for my interests, and what financial aid was out there for me apply for.

Steven

Going back in time to talk to myself in a senior would be a nice long discussion about the little things about college that coexist as one large cluster of expenses. I would tell myself, "YOU NEED TO BE ORGANIZED! YOU NEED TO PLAN! YOU NEED TO SPEND AT LEAST ONE WEEK APPLYING FOR SCHOLARSHIPS! YOU NEED TO SPEND A FEW HOURS RESEARCHING PROFESSORS! AND FINALLY, YOU NEED TO SAVE MONEY AND FIGURE OUT HOW MUCH EVERYTHING WILL COST YOU...ESPECIALLY BOOKS!" Being in college for the past three and a half years has not been all so bad but I know I could have made some wiser decions at earlier times and avoided lots of lots of hassles. My college experience has been well. I have moderately learned the information I felt was very important. I go to class and try to work harder than I did during my first few semesters. With that said, I have seen a lot of improvement. So in a nutshell, I would tell my 17/18 year old self, "GET WITH THE PROGRAM KID!" I feel I am a hard worker, however, it is not my effort that kills me, it is procrastination.

Scott

If I could go back in time and start the selection process all over again, I would take more time to "shop around". While I enjoy where I am at, it was the only school I applied to. As the first born, my parents excitedly started planning college visits the Spring of my Junior year. I had to tell them that I was not interested because at the time I couldn't think a week ahead much less a year. I presently am in the process of transferring to a larger state school because I have the confidence now that I didn't as an incoming freshman. Additionally, I feel the larger state school will provide me with the more specifc curriculum I realize I need. However, I have no regrets about the college I chose. I just didn't have anything to compare it to. I don't think I made a wrong choice but if I had to do it again, I would raise my head and at least look out the window at other colleges.

Sandra

I can honestly say that college life was definitely a reality check. When I attended high school, there was no need to pay for education. Life was pretty simple then; go to school, study hard, live life. When I transitioned to college life, the reality instantly smacked me in the face. Having to meet due dates for rent and meal plans as well as tuition and fees was a growing stress in my life. Financial stress became my biggest problem. If I could go back in time I would advice myself to get a job during high school or before I started college to help with the quickly growing bills. I would have to say that it is the hardest part about college life. I hate feeling like a burden to my parents with all these bills. I would tell myself to prepare better. College is not a joke and it is not something you can take lightly. If I could go back, I would say "Give it your all and don't give up. It's going to get harder but as long as you are persistant, you will make it far and reach your dreams."

Matthew

Habbits in highschool will not fly. Put that I am an Eagle Scout down on applications more. Maintain my loyalty to my fraternity, friends, and familt, fulfill all of my obligations to my family and myself, respect everyone more than I currently am now, honor my family and friends, show integrety and do what is right all the time and not most of the time. Demonstrate more personal courage and speak my mind when given the opportunity and demonstrate my leadership. College is not just four years but for life, abilities, skills, and talents gained here will follow you through out your life and career. "Kalepa ta kala" - Naught without labor, school is not an easy ride, it requires effort and at times so much that failure almost seems inevitable.

Nisha

Each person learns from his or her own mistakes, and so have I. Going through a tough time during college, I have learned many things that I could have done during my senior year in high school. Being a full-time student, I had a long, hectic schedule which made me very exhausted. If I built the habit of sleeping early during my high school year then it would have become easier for me to wake up early in the morning and start a fresh, crispy morning. Not only that, making a habit of studying for exams a week before the deadline would be an easier way of not only improving grades, but also getting enough hours of sleep. I would also advice myself to not slack off during the last year of high school because this was one of the important years and the only time to learn yourself be independent. I thought I would be a 4.0 student since I made good, consistent grades, but I started off a GPA of 3.6 during my first semster. Learning from my small mistakes, I believe that this semster will be a great change for me.

Mia

After a tedious first semester at UTSA and knowing what I do now from that college experience, I would tell myself back as a high school senior that "it is possible"-possible to succeed at college and feel accomplished. For some silly reason with all the anxiety about attending a four-year university, I thought I could not succeed at college at all. That I would just go and fail. But I know now that all it takes is hard work and dedication, something I've done all through my high school years- so the thought of doubt I had towards college makes little sense when I think about it. Some experiences I'd tell myself to embrace is the new freedom of being able to drive 45 minutes away from home with my twin sister and taking classes when i want. It's a very different and invigorating experience compared to the small community where my high school was located, plus- I get to meet and see a variety of people with different cultures. I would not anticipate the college experience with fear but fully embrace the transition by cherishing the past and welcoming the future memories to come.

Alexandria

If I could go back into time and talk to myself as a High School Senior with the knowledge that I know about College and making the transition from High School to College, I will tell myself that it will be more difficult to balance my time than what High School prepared me for. I will also tell myself to think about attending College and if it is the right choice for me, as well as making sure that my family is supporting me one hundred percent. In addition, I will tell myself that I understand the information on deciding what College better suites me and the studies that I want to pursue.

Tanita

I remember as a senior in high school I was so ready to get out, especially towards the end of the year. Although I enjoyed high school and was privileged to have loved all my teachers, it was something about being able to have freedom, and knowing that once i entered college I would have control over pretty much everything I did. As often has it is said "College is absolutely nothing like high school". If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior knowing what I know about college now, I would advise myself to practice time management and listen to your teachers now because the advice that they give will be much needed. I would definately tell myself studying in high school is nothing like studying for college, it requires more research and much more reading. Learn to be more open minded, and most importantly be deeply rooted in my faith. Distractions are everywhere but keep in mind the real reason you are there. The freedom that you are granted seems lovely, but be very careful to stay on track because you may lose focus.

Paige

As a senior in high school, time seemed to be slipping through my finger tips. With so many applications, confusing FAFSA forms, and lengthy essays, applying for college seemed more stressful than useful. Graduation just around the corner and trying to maximize my time with friends, I failed to prioritize applying to college. It is important to apply early, and actually put quality time into every aspect of the process. My mentality was that large colleges let everyone in, and therefore did not truly show why I was an amazing applicant on paper. It is imperative to remember college is a new beginning with new friends and a new a lifestyle. Although high school was fun, getting into the school you most want is more than just a few verbose sentences, but actually displaying your heart and soul to the committee.

Damiyr

Dear Past Self, It is very important that you learn to study efficiently. I know you study a good amount, but in college time managment is key. This semester my hardest class was Biology. Although I managed a B+ in my biology course, my other grades suffered because I dedicated too much time to solely studying Biology. Knowing this, I would suggest to start studying early for any upcoming tests so that you can spread out your studying and distribute your time more effectively. You'll also find that much of your schoolwork is done over the internet. I missed a few quizzes and homework assignments this semester because I would forget to check my online homework. So be mindful and keep a planner or calendar if you need to. Sincerely, Your Future Self

Nicholas

If I could go back in time, I would better prepare myself in high school to make the transition into college a little easier. College is a overwhelming experience! I would have taken more pre-AP courses as well as AP courses to prepare yourself. During my senior year, I wanted to have an easy case load. I took some AP courses, but I should have taken more courses to better prepare myself even if it meant more studying! You can never study enough, and it would have definitely helped transitioning into college. II would also have visited as lot more colleges and applied to more colleges to learn about the different curriculums. It's a tough decision, but the more you know about different colleges, the easier it is to decide what you want to study. I am happy where I'm at now and am looking forward to transferring to UT Austin in the fall of 2010!

michelle

Michelle, Oh Michelle, I know that you think senior year is a waste of time and a bore - which it is [boring], if you could just overcome your feeling of boredom and do something productive like apply for scholarships, life won't be so difficult when you start school during the Fall of '09. Seriously, you aren't doing anything else, and if you don't do it senior year then you will most definately be doing it whenever you have free time (i.e. the time that you aren't working to pay for tuition, preparing for finals, or human things like eating or sleeping). The seasonal bills your receive from UTSA will bring you anxiety like you've never felt before and it will become awfully distracting because you will owe money in numbers you've only seen in Algebra class. Apply for scholarships! Now!

Melissa

I would first advise myself that starting college life is not simple. One of the major aspects that one must look at is knowing how to budget your money when having to pay for tuition and books and also knowing your expenses if living in or outside campus. Another major aspect is picking the right college or university. One must realize that college is not highschool. Highschool is expected to teach and prepare you for higher education. Once entering college, one must be able to adapt to changes and apply their higher learning skills to their major and basic, first two years, curriculum classes. Another major aspect is selecting the right college major that best suits what you want to dedicate your future career in. If I could go back in time, I would have gone into college with a degree in mind knowing exactly what I wanted to be. This would have benefited me in not having to waste time by changing to another major. If I could go back in time, I would consider these three things and realize and understand the transition from highschool to college prior enrolling and living the college life.

Shreya

There's nothing that can quite prepare you for a journey like this. You may hear things, get advice, try to prepare youself in every way, but no luck. There's no way you can prepare to tear yourself away from your focuses now, family, and focus everything you've got on school. It's nothing quite like what you've been used to. School has a whole different definition here. Just hold your breath, close your eyes, and leap forward. You'll do great.

Chelsea

I have always been told that, ?College is not like high school. You must study and work even harder.? Even though I knew this, it still does not prepare you for college. In comparison to high school, college is a life experience that really isn?t understood until you are there. If could go back, there is general information I wish I had known earlier. Never believe information from a school advisor or school office without double checking the information yourself. Always get the information in writing. Make a budget and never buy new textbooks. Always buy used textbooks and check online for deals. Use all of your resources- study groups, professors, and teaching assistants-to help you. In class, sit in the front row and exchange numbers with someone near you. It can become very valuable later. Be careful who you trust. Make sure your professor knows you and that you come to class. Ask for a recommendation even if you do not need it now, it can help later. Always update your resume; you might need it. Enjoy college because it's one of life's best experiences, but do not forget the reason why you are there.

Julian

I would tell my self to be less concerned about what others think of you, and what your social life consists of, and more concerned about the quality of your future and what you are doing now in high school to prepare for college! Being a junior and having to retake classes now that i didnt do well in my freshman year of college, i would stress the importance of good study habits and hard work. College isnt about partying and going out, thats not the reason we are here! Its about making the grades that will secure a promising future and making a change in a world that is ever changing and becoming deeper and deeper in problems revolving around the economy, ecosystem, and poverty. So I would simply ask myself what am I doing now to make sure that I will be making a difference tomorrow!

Tony

Knowing what I know now, I would have liked to have taken more Dual-Credit courses, as those would have easily saved me a year of school at college and money. I have given my sister the advice of getting all the possible Dual-Credit her school has available as it will save her time an money in the long run. In doing so, one will graduate at a younger age and have more opportunities to find a great career.

Tahnee

I would advise myself to save money throughout the summer because there are expenses that come up that are not always expected. Also, it's smart to talk to an academic advisor to determine what classes need to be taken. Always make sure that any tests (i.e. the Accuplacer) are taken ahead of time so that you are not surprised when you are ready to register. If your instructor has the information, find out what books you need ahead of time, but DON'T BUY THEM RIGHT AWAY. Sometimes the instructors will not require the text. You'll find out within the first week what books you will and will not need for the semester. It's a chance to save your money. It's also important to know the parking policy for the campus. What kinds of permits they have, how much they are, etc, are important things to find out early.

Carmen

The advise that i would give myselft will be to fulfill my dreams and to never let other people put me down, to do good in school and to make my mother proud of me for following my dreams. Also i will be more aware of how college classes work, how students need to make their own schedule not like high school that the conselor will tell your what to choose and with what professor and how great all the help the University offers, opportunities to succed in every classroom and the great people that attend to the University. Although, i will know how there is a lot of clubs, faternities and academic help in my University. On the other hand, what i love about my college is that there are different races because like that, students can learn from each other, about where they are from, their different types of culture and their dislike and likes. Last but not least the University also has amazing housing where students can experience their housing experience and how is like to live with different types of personalities and different type of living. Of course is challenging but it is an amezing experience.