University of Arizona Top Questions

Juliet, before you go to college there are a couple of things you should know up front. Look at your finances and make sure that the aid the college promises to give is what they will give. Write down your top 5 careers and contact people around the area in those careers to see if you can shadow and how you like that kind of work. Also it is important that you take a community college class while in highschool, something related to you major to see how you like the coursework. Apply for an internship as well earlier own in your college career and establish a network that you can build rapport with. Make friend with people in your major earlier, they will be a key support system as well as helpful. As being in such a big university, you may not always get the one on one teacher time. Which brings up my final point, look into the class sizes. The big lecture halls are not for everyone. Finally, get a planner and become organized, no one will push you, mostly because everyone is worried about their own work. With these few points and focus you will succeed.

Knowing what I know now I would have still applied to my current school. I also would have been more involved when I first got to school. I would have also applied to more outside funding as it has become hard to be able to pay for college. With the many problems that I have it is mostly about money. No matter what I would still feel that my school is the best one for me and would still have the best time here than at anyother school.

The only and only advice I would give to myself is not to underestimate myself. At the time that I was a senior, i thought that you had to be smart in order to attend a University and that only intelligent person(s) are capable to go straight to it. I went to U of A and found out that my classmates from high school are taking the same classes as I took at Pima Community College. In other words, they were still taking the classes while I was done with them already. It came a shock to me that, no matter a college nor a university, they both are almost the same. I underesimated myself thinking that I will not be able to do well at a university and therefore decided to go to a college instead, which I would say is not a wrong decision I made at all but just the fact of why I made that very decision dissapoints me even till today. So all I would say to me is don't underestimate yourslef because you know much more than that!

Dont start your major in criminal justice and then switch, it's a waste of time. dont be so depressed, life only gets harder from here. just because he says he loves you, doesn't mean it's true.

Dear Natalie Jo, I hope your doing well and are getting ready for graduation. Enjoy your time in high school, do not be so eager to start college. Although college can be a scary thing, you are well prepared for it. I have some social as well as academic advice for you. Please try to keep procrastination at an all time minimum. This is very important because you will not most likely have homework everyday but instead have larger assignments. In addition, apply yourself in every single class, memorization is not as important anymore. The last piece of academic advice I can give you is to participate and attend every class. This includes getting to know and creating relationships with your professors. This will really help you in the long run. The social advice I can give you is to get involved in as many things as you can without stressing yourself out. Attend all the sporting events you can because they are so fun and a great way to meet new people. The biggest advice I can give you is that you will get as much out of college as you put in. Love always, Your successful college self :)

Do your research. Choose an institution that fits you and more importantly, choose a major that interests and inspires you. Be prepared to work hard. Most college-level courses are more demanding and faster-paced than any course you took in high school. Be up for the challenge and promise yourself that you will do your best and succeed. Take advantage of extracurricular, club, volunteer, and employment opportunities, but don’t over-commit. It can be extremely rewarding to get involved in an activity that you’re passionate about and can lead to future opportunities, friendships, and inter-professional relationships. See what’s happening around you and what you can do to help. However, do not overload yourself. Be realistic in your timeline and prioritize your extra activities, keeping academics at the top of your list. Remember that while it is important to work hard and get involved, it is equally important to rest and enjoy yourself. Never underestimate the power of a healthy meal, a good night’s sleep, or laughter. Your time in college is shorter than you can imagine. Strike a balance between work and play, always have a positive attitude and do what makes you happy.

I would tell myself to more greatly research the areas in which to study. I would suggest talking to people who are working in the fields that I would like to study. I would not take out so many students loans. I would make a consious effort in trying to find outside sources to pay for school. I would make sure the path of education I'm taking leads to a great career and will provide me and my family a great life. I would volunteer more than I did during college and definitely pursue an internship.

Never giveing up on what my dream is in life. I would tell myself that I need to have a goal plan on what I want in life and how I plan on makeing them come true. I would of told myself to look into every college there is out there and find which one betters suites me. As a college student I know now that it's not easy studying, working, and trying to keep your grades up to at least a B. Knowing which career feild you would love to be in and how to accomplish getting there can be tricky, but as long as I work at it I know I will make it.

As a high school senior I was so amped to embrace a new world of independence and get as far away as I could that I did not realize how much I took my mom and brother for granite. My mom works so hard by herself to support me and all I wanted to do was leave. My hardest transition was realizing how much I miss my family and how much my mom has given up to send me to the University of Arizona. I love my independence but if not for her I would have never gotten this far.

Just relax! Everything will work out for the best if you just relax!

My advice to myself would be to make the most of all the opportunities that are presented to you in college. Too often new college students pass up opportunities in favor of the easy road. At the time taking part in study abroad opportunities, extra-circular activities, advanced classes or other such opportunities can seem a daunting task to an overwhelmed student. At the time it seems like a much better option to do the minimum and take the classes that get you an "easy A." It's not until you are much older that you look back and realize what great chances and opportunities you had and turned down because it seemed like too much for too little. Going the extra mile makes for a better education, enriched life and priceless memories while constantly taking the easy road leaves you with a hollow education. My advice for college, and the rest of your life, is to make the most of every moment.

If I had the chance to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would have told myself to find more colleges that I could have been accepted to instead of procrastinating and waiting the last minute to decide which college I wanted to go to. Also I would have told myself to find and apply for scholarships because what I had experienced for my first year in college, my financial aid only covered most of my tution. I had to take out a loan to cover the rest and so that I could finish my first year. Once you get into college, you HAVE to study. But when you get into those college courses, it is no joke. I would also tell myself to make sure to go to all of your classes, and I mean all of them. Sometimes, missing one class can end up hurting you and your grade for that class. From what I have learned and experienced, STUDY, STUDY, STUDY is the number one key to helping you pass your classes and to get a good education.

Dear High School Jen, I want you to think long and hard about what you are about to do. Sure the University of Arizona wasn't your first choice but they have a great medical program and really is a top school in the nation. So you don't need to worry yourself over that choice. What I want you to really think about is this roommate issue. It may not seem like a big deal now at the time. In fact, if I remember correctly, you can't wait to move into the dorms with one of your friends. Really think about who you are choosing to live with. The two of you will be in a small confined space. You must know how to compromise. Is this the right person for you to be living with. Looking back I wish I really thought this decision through because now I feel like it may begin to have a negative effect on my school work and that is not okay. I wish I had realized that we were not compatable as roommates before it got worse. But no matter what you are strong and can do anything! Sincerely, College Jen

I think I would probably go to a junior college before attending a huge university. The school is very nice but it is very expensive and competative.

If I got the opportunity to go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would first of all congratualte myslef for living my senior year to the fullest while also getting good grades. I would tell myself not to be scared. That even though you're going to a new state and a new school where you know only one person, that things will work out. My high school senior self could not have imagined the amazing experiences and opportunies that I have had in the past year and I don't know how I would find the words to tell myself. I would tell myself to get Skype earlier because I didn't have it until I moves and now it makes me feel so much better every time I feel home sick. I would tell myself that it's ok to feel homesick. I think the main advice that I would give myself would be that it's ok to be afraid, as long as you just suck it up and take risks, go on adventures, meet new people, try new things, and always try your hardest.

First, I would tell myself to invest in dry shampoo and a coffee maker. Second, I would say that college truly is the place where people find themselves. Not only do you pick out a career that will follow you for the rest of your life but you will also discover many of your likes and dislikes. You learn that there are certain sacrifices that need to made in order to get to where you need to be but you also create friendships and relationships that will be a part of you forever. You will make plenty of mistakes along the way but you are finally at that age where you are mature enough not to make the same mistake twice. I would say, don't ever give up on something you are passionate about. If you want to get a 4.0 GPA then you better learn strong time management skills and learn to love caffine. The most important advise I could give my past self is to not be in a hurry to grow up. College is going to get you were you need to be, but sometimes you need to stop and enjoy the journey.

The ability to finish tasks in advance, listen to those more experienced than myself, and practice financial maturity are qualities I would have done well to learn in high school. Foregoing some of these practices created challenges in adjusting to college life. Though I understand these characteristics are critical to any trade and in any life stage, they get harder to learn as one gets older. As a high school music student, I know I could have gone further if I made more adjustments to my technique and practice schedule by following the guidance of instructors and peers. Music is a test of aptitude and requires self-discipline, an essential quality at this age. Fiscal planning and the proper completion of assignments also require self-discipline. Assignments themselves need to be finished far in advance, proofread and revisited to ensure credibility and personal understanding. Such is the desired return on a significant financial investment, which is why smart spending is so important. I would want to tell myself that it is not what I spend, but how I spend it that defines the quality of the investments - starting with college – that I am so fortunate to be able to make.

If I could go back and give myself advice about college it would be to not take college so easily. College is hard work and it takes a lot of effort, just as every one always told me. I would also tell myself to not take other peoples words, who have been though college, for granted. Studying is a must in college if you want to pass classes and get good grades. Do not take college lightly because it is serious business and there is no messing around. You pay for your classes and if you fail them, you have to retake them and pay for them again. So, study hard and never give up. You can do anything you set your mind to.

To my high school version, Did you start applyng for colleges during September? If not, then start early! Many universities have a deadline in November and you want to start yours with as much time to work on it as you can. Make sure to get more than two teachers or counselors to proofread your personal statement and don't procrastinate on filling out your FAFSA. Apply to as many universities that you can think of because you want to largest pool of choices. Consider living independently or in a dorm during college if you are planning on attending a university close to home. Keep maintaining your rigorous work habitsince it'll come in really handy when you have to studyfor tests and do community work in college. While we're on the subject of classes, make sure to take a reasonable amount of classes during your first semester While you are in high school, find yourself a good, knowledgable mentor. That mentor will be the key to making connections, because in college nothing is more vital than to have connections to people who are willing to help you! Work hard until you graduate, don't procrastinate! -Your future self.

Dear 18-year-old Paola, Do not panic. That is probably the most important advice I have for you. I know you are worried about what college has in store for you, but trust me, you will do great. Never doubt yourself. You have to realize that there will be people surrounding you, talking about their perfect scores and perfect GPA’s. I know this will make you doubt yourself, but I beg you, never doubt your academic abilities. You have to study and read the assigned readings your professors give you. Do not be lazy. Find time to balance your studies. I will warn you that you will have a difficult time adjusting to Biology. This will be one of your most difficult courses, but you will be able to earn a good grade. Paola, you are strong. A family member will face health hardships, but as a unit, you will be able pass through this and everyone will be fine. Once you adjust to your studies you will be able to make good friends. Remember to keep family close, that is important. You will be capable of doing great things, you will be surprised. Have fun, Paola.

If I could go back in time and give myself advice I would tell not to be afraid of stepping out and furthering my education. I would explain how beneficial it would be for me to go to college and how much it would help me to grow into a respectable adult. I would also let myself know that regardless of my fears about not being able to pass the classes, that college is possible and that I was able to pass college level classes. I would go back in time and help myself to understanding that I was and are capable of a lot more than I thought. Another good thing to explain would be how to manage money and time well. Most importantly, I would teach myself to learn how to study correctly because that can be very important in every class. College has been a vital piece of my life and my growing up. It has taught me to manage money, interact with others, be responsible, punctual, and hardworking. In fact, if I could go back in time, I would want to go back and encourage others to attend college as well.

Stay focused! There will be distractions, wether they come in the form of guys, jobs, morning sickness or babies, stay focused. Don't forget who you are, you have talents and knowledge that need to be shared with those who surround you, don't be afraid to be different. Love yourself, for once you can love yourself it's easier to love those around you. Last but not least, don't give up, things will be hard but that's what makes them worth it when you finish, the Lord never said it would be easy he only said it would be worth it.

Thankfully, because I have two older brothers that have gone to college before me, I knew how important it was to become involved with clubs and make new friends when I entered the university, which is an essential part of adjusting to college. Therefore, if I could go back in time and tell my high school self anything, I would focus on the change in the structure of classes at the university instead. I would definitely recommend going to office hours to ask questions and understand the material more deeply, as intimidating as it might seem at first. I would also tell myself to study for weeks in advance before a test, since grades depend heavily on tests in college, and since many test weeks overlap. Finally, I would tell myself to calm down. College is fun, so let it be fun! Don't worry about not being accepted, because everyone is very friendly, and there are so many clubs and events that connect similar personalities together, if you just look for them.

Perspective and Realism jacob: You are the last person I ever thought would be telling me this. JACOB: It’s something you need to hear. It’s not every day that you get a glimpse into the future. jacob: But why now? What changed? JACOB: I’m not saying you have to change, just that you need to be reminded of what actually constitutes reality. Eventually you get to a point in life where things aren’t so… attainable. You pride yourself on being a realist. jacob: I am! It’s the one thing that has kept me out of trouble all these years. JACOB: And also what has left you inexperienced! You will change when you suddenly realize that the aspirations and ambitions you once had in high school, under someones wing rather than out in the cold, when life was easy, dreaming… are easier idealized than realized. jacob: I’m not completely vulnerable... Jacob: Don’t be naïve, just understand. You’ve never been good at open mindedness, or even tolerance of other perspectives than your own. All I’m saying is be prepared, and focus, embrace the real world. I once thought I was invincible too.

There is stress from the tangible. Exams, paper deadlines, or relationship woes; we all have matters to balance. Stress from the unknown, the unfamiliar is simply wasted energy. We fear what is foreign, but when we don't know what something has to offer, what tides we may be forced to combat, then the fear is only holding us back. Don't fear college. The immensity of college is strangely concealed. It's easy to get lost in attending classes and then heading back to your dorm to study or waste away with Netflix. For some reason, this seems hectic. Don't be deceived by this. There is more to uncover. We all have a niche, and maybe high school didn't support one, but I promise that college will. You just need to be willing to find it. The truth is, college will grow into a safe haven. Living on your own like an adult, but still being under the financial blanket of your parents is ideal. This doesn't last forever. It shouldn't. Once you graduate, what you spent your time doing here will dictate what you spend doing for the rest of your life. Remember that.

Don't live with who you did your freshman year. Don't waste your time, and get all your homework done.

If I could go back in time I would first say "Way to go Carley! Who thought you could do so well". I would, however, tell myself that the transition would be harder than I think and to not let little things get in my way. I would warn myself that my medical conditions would continue to get worse to try to prepare myself. The last thing I would tell myself is to not let medical conditions and family issues get in the way of my goals and dreams in life which includes doing well in school. "Good luck Carley, I know you'll be just fine!".

If I could talk to my previous high school self, my initial thought would be to tell him to get into college immediately after graduating, but that is not what I would tell him. The only reason I started attending college is because of the life I lived after high school. Through my life experiences of working and living in the adult world, I discovered a new motivation for life. When I re-entered school I was a different person with bigger goals and the drive to achieve them. Without experiencing life as I did, I would not have studied this hard or cared so much about my future. Therefore, if given the opportunity to visit my previous self I would hug him, tell him to have fun and live, and when the time is right you will know what to do, because I did.

If I could go back in time as a high school senior, I would tell myself to take school more seriously. Attack every class as if it were the most important class in my life. Take more time to not just study, but to actually learn and understand what you are studying. Good study habits are crucial to success in college. You will be better off on day one by applying those study habits as if they are part of your daily routine. Also make sure you complete your homework and study before you do anything else. Getting together with friends, playing video games, should be a reward for the job well done studying and completing your homework. That way, when you transition to college life, where nobody is there to tell you to study, you will get off to a good start. Because we all know how hard it is to bring your grades up after not doing well early on.

The number one advice I would give myself is taking scholarships very seriously. College is not cheap and there are numerous fees you are required to pay for. Applying for scholarships will not only save you a lot of money, but you will be able to use your money for other important necessities. Another important aspect I would tell my high school self is to utilize my time wisely and to learn to stop procrastinating. In college, depending on your schedule, you may have free time in between classes. This is the time to do any homework that may be due, or study for any quizzes or tests. Time is everything and procrastinating in college not only will cause you to lose sleep time, but stress you out for all the homework you may have to do. Ultimately, just learning to stay focused and prioritizing your time right will cause starting college an easy transition.

If i could go back, i would have told myself to pay more attention in class. As a high school senior i didnt care much about my grades. Now as a college freshman my GPA is very important to me and i strive to do the best I can in all of my classes.

Life is about to change, but no matter how difficult the obstacles are to overcome, and despite the challenging times when giving up seems like the only option, remember one thing-- your motto throughout life-- which will finally define itself through you: never give up, keep looking up. In college, everyone has their own unique experience; it's a time in your life to create yourself and grow in all ways. Take this opportunity to fall down only to stand up, to fall in love and have your heart broken, to fail one day and become successful the next. But while you are out there discovering just how strong and smart you are, don't forget to look back at your roots. When you leave, don't forget why you came. You're going to be in college, kiddo, and while it will be far from easy, it will be worth it. As you continue striving for the best, remember that though the tears may fall and the nights dark, you were born to smile and be the sunshine. Never ever give up, keep looking up, because you are on your way to be the best you you can be.

I would tell myself to develop good study habits before college begins. Studying an hour before an exam will no longer work in college; high school mainly tests for memorization of facts, whereas college demands mastery in the subject. While studying is an absolute must, I would tell myself to take a deep breath and not to fret, lest she miss out on all the fun that college has to offer! In high school, I had social anxiety. I would remind myself that peope are not the enemy; you are. Once you realize that people would rather befriend you than hate you, it makes befriending others much easier. College is all about balance; you need to study, but you also need to have fun, so you don't lose your sanity. Once you find this perfect balance of academic and personal success, you will be golden.

The advice I would give my self would be not to wait around to go to college for 4 years. Granted that the work experience was really usefull and taught me a lot of lessons that I needed to know, college would have been the best option to go. I would say that there are a lot of scholarships that are available that you can get and it will pay for all of the tuition and the expenses that come along with getting a degree. Going to the Art Institute of California is going to be the best option for the future and is going to be the best option for financial security. Going to college is going to be the best thing that will happen to you in your life.

Dear Kaitlyn, You are about to embark on an incredible journey, and I know you're getting tired of people telling you that but it's true. The next few months are going to seem so special to you, and they are extremely special, but don't think of them as a sad ending. They are only the first chapter of your life story. I know that you are so scared about leaving all that is known behind you, and jumping into this huge mysterious thing called your future, but if I can give you any advise about this difficult time you're going through it is this, don't live in the past. The friends and the memories you made in high school have been incredible and have made you a remarkable human being, but if you go into college and don't take advantage of every single oppotunity that arises because all you long for is to return to high school, you will regret it. This does not mean don't work hard, because that is extremely important, but there is no reason for you to not enjoy it too. This is the greatest time of your life!

I would say that it is important to take time to research your major before you decide to pursue it. I've seen too many people waste years and money pursuing a major, which they later realize they cannot enjoy. It is very important to love what you do. I personally spent 4 years taking many credits which did not really get me anywhere, because I had no clear picture of what I was doing. Only now, I am very certain what I want to do with my life. I wish I took more time to learn about myself and my career choices before jumping into a program. It is vital for a person to find what their calling is in life. Take personality profile surveys, talk to advisors, and ask for advice from your family and friends. Often, the people around you can see your gifts and abilities that you may not yet be aware of yourself. Once you have a definite understanding of who you are and what you love to do, you must resarch your career choices to see which ones match your interests and personality. Then, you can make an appropriate career choice with no regrets.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself about the college transition, the single most important piece of advice I could offer would be to never be afraid of solitude. While many people who move out of town for college view it as an adventure, I, like plenty of others, was at one point quite frightened. Leaving behind the comfort of our homes and the warmth of our families can be an incredibly hard concept to digest. The world is wide and unpredictable; there's no telling what awaits right around the corner, and facing it alone is nothing to be taken lightly. But the truth is that in college we are far from alone, for we are given the chance to discover new places and new people. From them and with them a whole new world of passions, opportunities, and experiences can be discovered. In the end it is that exposure that shapes us as persons, sometimes in ways we would have never imagined. Moreover, family will always be family, and home will always be home; they will always be there to welcome us back with arms wide open. There is nothing to fear.

First off, don't underestimate yourself and know that you are good enough. For the longest time I didn't think I was a "good enough" artist to make it anywhere. Even after I got accepted into the art college, which is very competitive, seeing my fellow classmates and their artistic ability made me second guess myself. My light bulb moment came when I met my favorite professor, who never doubted me. This professor saw talent in me and pushed me to my limits even if it meant making me frustrated with him pointing out the tiniest portions of my paintings that needed attention. In the end all that pickiness paid off and helped me create my best work. He constantly tells me that he only pushes me to my limit because he knows it’s in me. Due to this professor and his belief in me I was able to find that belief in myself. If I had given up I would never be to this point in my life or career. Dear my once doubtful self, I can guarantee that college will be tough, but it will be completely worth it. Most importantly do not give up, ever.

Looking back and talking to myself as a high school senior, first thing I would most definitely advise myself is to remain calm and stress-free: stressing over about numerous college apps, getting lost on the first day of school, declaring a major, etc. While choosing a major is important, its not the most important thing when you start freshman year. Anything can change over time, even your major, or knowing your way around school. The second advice I would give is to be a part of the 'college community' by meeting new friends, joining or participating in clubs and activities or services. Living the college life would be a lot easier if you had somewhere to start such as making friends. Remember start small, grow big. And lastly, make the transition from the high school atmosphere to the college atmosphere. In highschool where time just seemed endless and carefree, it is the exact opposite in college. Time is the difference between success and failure. Keeping a well balanced schedule can help you juggle through college life, family, and success.

I would tell myself that you should follow your instincts and never give up on your goals, no matter the cost. Overall I am very happy with the choices I have made in my life, so all there is to say are words of encouragement. You are on your way!

Do not assume that the classes you used to be good at in high school will be easy for you in college. College will make the courses much harder than they were. Do not panic when the workload get difficult. It will seemin overwhelming, but you will get through it. Be social, or your college ecperience will be boring. You think it will distract you from your workload, but it actually balances out your life. Do not be afriad to take time for yourself. Watching some TV or going to the gym to get your mind off of school is okay. Take care of your mental health, and you will be successful.

I would tell myself that not everyone has to do something amazing with their life before they are 25. The best way to live life is in your way unique way and you are exactly where you need to be. The thing that most is that you are satisfied when you go to bed with a day well spend. Use the time your have wisely, and measure yourself by your own standards.

As I look back at my high school life, I know a very simple phrase that I wish I had thought of. "Keep calm and carry on". One simple phrase that seems like nothing, but to my high school self this could have meant wonders to me. During high school, especially my senior year, I had an extremely rough time. I had let every small problem turn into an extreme problem and affect all aspects of my life. I used to believe that with each thing wrong that happened, it was just building up for a massive failure in my future life. As I look at my life now, I can see what I have done helped make me through the tough times. If I just keep calm and keep doing what I have been, nothing could have gone that wrong. With dedication, hard work, and hope, nothing can stop me from working toward my goal and making it to a college I want and learn what I need to in order to be a psychologist, and have the career I had always hoped to have. I just need to keep calm and carry on.

If I could go back and tell myself anything from what I know now about this major transition in my life it would be to never put off doing something until the last minute. Always turn in everything well before the deadline date. It’s less stressful that way. Another thing I would mention would have to be is to stay conscious of what you spend your money on. College is so expensive. The help from financial aid is a blessing but it won’t cut it all the time. Learning to save is very essential. The number one thing I would include in my discussion is staying on top of things, yourself. High school doesn’t prepare you for everything that college throws at you. If you’re not on top of your game you will lose every time. There’s nobody there holding your hand through your journey. You have to do things for yourself. You may have to ask for help from time to time, but the whole depending on somebody to do everything for you idea won’t help you make it throughout your school career.

If I could go back in time, the advise I would give myself as a high school senior, is to hustle and love what you do. I am 24 years old today. I have experienced so much in such short ime. I started by following my dreams in high school. Excellent student, athletic, and very focused. I followed my heart and chose a career i loved. Once accepted into the school of my dreams, I suffered an accident and had to pause. I had to come up with so much money to cover bills. This changed my persepctive and picked a career that would make me wealthy instead. Following a more "stable" career, I didnt feel like myself. I came to realize that no matter how much money I was going to earn, I wasn't happy. I felt richer enjoying what i did before the accident. In the end, happiness is a goal many search for, but few achieve. So, I'm back to where i started, following the career of my dreams. I would tell myself, "Follow your heart! Do what makes you happy, do it well, and with passion."

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to attempt my hardest at achieving academic and intellectual success. My high school years were spent without a care of my academic future. Looking back now, I know I could have performed better and made my transition and financial situation in college much better. I didn't believe in myself that much back in high school, and it was reflected in my mediocre educational performance. My years in college have taught me a great deal about intellectual attainment at the expense of a more exceptional approach to the betterment of my academic endeavors. In summation, I would tell myself; "your mind is the wall before you, and that you can become so much more and give back to this world once you realize that the only thing keeping you from achieving academic and intellectual success is yourself."

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school I would tell myself to apply for more scholarships and to also be more involved in school activities and clubs, so that I could have more opportunity.

I went to high school in Africa, so my experience is quite different from someone from here. Things I would like to change is to find a way to get involve with others people. Because of me not being very involved, it took me to be close to graduation at Pima Community College to find out about scholarship available. I had a 3.9 GPA and I could have got many scholarships. I would prefer to find a way to support myself and my parents in Africa, so I can work less and have more times for some social events to make friends. I feel alone sometimes at school. Most of my friends at Pima community College were African and it was a very close circle. They all moved to different state after graduation, so I only know few people at the University of Arizona. Another thing I would do is to make friends with some University of Arizona students while still at Pima. Last semester, I asked few people of their old materials and they just told me they don’t have it or couldn’t find it because they didn’t know me or we weren't friends

ADMITTED! Don't be afraid. I know you feel as if you're about to fling yourself into an abyss, but don't worry... many people will reach out before you lunge. This is it. The Big U. Remember when we were younger and we'd take field trips to the UofA? We'd see all these cool grown-ups acting like kids as they played with Frisbees and soccer balls and footballs and volleyballs and laughed and smiled and waved. We always thought "wow, it would be so cool to go here", but we never ACTUALLY believed it to be realistic. Well, pinch yourself honey, this isn't a dream. You made it. Because of those nights that you'd cry yourself to sleep thinking that you would never be anybody, thinking how pointless everything is, and thinking about how freaking stressed the math out you were of all of it; I can congratulate you. Keep worrying, keep fighting, and keep aspiring. We worry far too much, therefore we go far in our accomplishments. Take a deep breath in... and out. The University of Arizona. It's your becoming. Congratulations Wildcat!

Never let anybody tell you who you are. You, and you alone can define yourself. Believe that you have what it takes to make it in the University of Arizona. People will tell you that giving up is always an option, remember that it is, only if you make it one. When you finally do get accepted to the University of Arizona, and you begin to learn about your environment and your fellow classmates, you will see that they too have faced those same obstacles and overcome them. Make friends, and treat them well. They will be your support group, because, and this may seem obvious, college isn't easy. However, don't believe that there's no room for fun while attending college The classes only constitute a portion of what the real college experience is about. It's also about eating pizza in a dorm room with your friends, having your professors inspire you, and building relationships that will last you a lifetime.