University of Arizona Top Questions

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

Alix

If I could give my high school senior self just one piece of advice, that would be to not be afraid. At 17, I had a morbid fear about going to any public school, and I never attended high school. I preferred to hide into the figure skating world, where I competed regionally for twelve years. As a result, however, I was sheltered from the outside world, but looking back, I shouldn’t have been so afraid. I could have overcome anything in high school easily. In skating, you have to face adversity every day, from insults thrown from coaches to rumors behind your back. I know now that my skating background could’ve kept me motivated and strong in high school, and I wish I wasn’t so afraid of going back to college: I feel like I’ve been in school for my whole life.

Kyle

I would tell myself to take my studies more seriously. Get your crap together and realize you are about to enter one of the greatest opprotuniteis anyone could ask for. I understand high school has been a breeze and the social life is more important than doing homework at times, but you need to set your priorities straight. Dump your girlfriend, there are plenty of beautiful and smart women in college. Forget how bad you did on the SAT, keep your confidence up and study hard. I realize late night studying has been rare, but get ready to make friends with the library and realize it is the key to a lot of your success. Don't fall asleep on your social life, because it is important to develop a relationship with your classmates. They will help you study and better understand material that is not easily understood. Contrary to what you may believe, college is not all harder. Majority of teachers will post notes up online, so missing class is not going to destroy your grade. The most important thing to rememeber is set your goals high, study often, and work hard to achieve them, and you shall.

Michael

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to get involved more on campus. There are lots of things to participate in around campus, including movies, sports, and parties. Although I would recommend that my former self refrain from participating in risky activities, I would still make myself more aware of possible social activities around campus. Our sports programs, including basketball and football, are full of team spirit and full of emotion. There are also hundreds of clubs on campus that allow people of certain interests to become involved and make friends with other students who are just like me. As a junior in college, it is almost too late to be making new friends and creating a new social life that will carry on throughout my life, but if I had told my former self about the endless possibilities of social interaction around campus, I would probably be better off with more friends than I could ever imagine now.

Andrew

If I could go back in time to talk to myself as a high school senior about college life, I would tell myself that in order to be successful you must take advantage of homework help programs and talking to teacher assistants during office hours. These are absolutely vital to a student's success because not only do they help with assignments, but they may clarify confusion and it gives access to additional information and understanding in lecture notes. Also, if I establish a personal friendship with my professor, it might help with the professors consideration of a better grade at the end of the semester. Furthermore, I would tell myself to get involved in school activities and clubs. I could have many friends and a good network of connections if I apply myself to the social life that the University of Arizona offered. This is important because it may help give opportunities in the future to obtain a job and it provides having connections in different regions of the country and world.

Clarke

I would tell myself if I were to go back in time that what I think now, isn't what it really is. My outlook on life through high school, and especially being a senior, was extremely poor and I did not realise what a difference learning could do to me. Education frees me, and if I went back in time I would try and convince myself to stop squandering time and get out and do something and constantly work on projects and learn as much as I could.

Sharon

College is not the time to be invisible. It is also not the time to stay in the library everyday during all of your breaks or be in your room all the time. By not doing these things, not only will you learn about what college has to offer, you will also learn about yourself. You will find that new experiences await you by meeting new friends, going to parties, going to football games, trying new foods, and learning that school is not all about grades. College is not high school. The same schedule that you have now of going to school, doing homework and going to bed will not work for your first week and even month of college. In your first month of college, you should understand that you can excel in your schoolwork. If you find that you can, it becomes necessary to be social. You will have a lot of free time and if you do not make friends or get out of your room, your college life will become lonely and miserable. I do not want this to happen to you and this is the advice that I can give to you.

Kyrstie

I would tell myself to be more assertive and be more outgoing. Time and time again I just blend into the background and get passed over. If I could have taught myself to stand out back then maybe I could change the flow of things and be more popular and assertive.

Avalon

I would say "Avalon, pay attention in math PLEASE!" I would also say to fill out as many scholarships as you can, college is going to make you broke! I would finally tell myself to do some volunteer work!

Kelsey

Pay attention! Stop being lazy! I would have been so much better prepared if I knew what was going to be expected of me. I would tell myself to listen to my parents, advisors and teachers. The things they are telling you about college is real! They arn't just making it up because it is their job. Listen and absorb.

Scoti

I would tell myself to go to school earlier in life. I would tell myself to attend the University of Arizona because it is a great school with so many great programs of study.

Brandon

If I could go back and advise my highscool self, I'd start by saying that college isn't as hard as you're making it out to be. I would tell myself to check in with the high school and college counselors more because they have a good knowledge base on where you're headed and will help point you in the direction you want to go. I'd say "challenge yourself to take some advanced placement classes because they'll save you some time and money because some of the classes you take in college are just going to be review." I wish could go back and tell myself not to plan on going into the Air Force because you have mild scoliosis and they won't take you. I'd also like to tell myself to get involed in campus activities and clubs because they are a good way to make new friends and are worth the effort of putting yourself out there. I'd end by giving myself a little John Wooden quote, "when you're through learning, you're through," and say "college is a great place to learn a lot of things, good luck!"

Rene

Be patient and understand that you cannot rush to get your degree, have fun while you can but dont sacrifice your eduacation for anyone. I would tell myself that academically speaking college is completly different from high school so dont expect to wiz by classes with A's like you did in high school; college takes studying no matter how smart you are.

Kathryn

I would advise myself to look forward to what is to come and think of it as the best four years of your life. Everyone says high school is "the best four years of your life" but college provides so much more independence and the ability to take personalized classes. There are requirements, but within both general education and major/minor requirements, there are so many classes that satisfy what is necessary to complete a degree. College provides the opportunity to get away from parents and (for me) to still be close enough to home to visit. I would advise myself to not be scared about college, because while it is definitely something to adjust to and there are so many people, the classes are more than worth it and it provides so many new experiences that I would never take back. Between on-campus and off-campus events and the culture of living in a college town, there is no other education experience that can provide the same lessons, not to mention the actual education gained in the classroom.

Winifred

Go to college as soon as you finish high school because you never know what could happen along the way and stick to that route!

Catherine

Knowing what I know now about college life and making the transition, I would tell myself as a high school senior, to stop texting and study more! You have heard the phrase "Oh, I'm just not a good test-taker." I know I was guilty of saying that and I whole heartedly regret it because now I associate that phrase with laziness. I know now that all it takes is more time, more focus, willpower, and less texting! My senior year was crazy, but so exciting and I would not trade anything for those memories. I was seventeen and in great shape from running cross country and track. I went to all of the football and most of the baseball games. I had a very sweet boyfriend; the epitome of a gentleman and a very good friend to this day. I loved high school and would therefore, advise anyone to get involved in college because high school and college are very similar. So in making the transition, I would tell myself to study without my phone and join a sports club. That way I could still work hard and play hard.

Lisa

evaluate schoolwork up to senior year, volunteer, get Learning Disability Evaluation, socialize, evaluate top 3 schools, work, start scholarship applications, Never give up particpate in whatever is thrown your way! Love, believe faith & Hope!!

Morgan

Do not choose your college based on who you know going there. Make sure that you can succeed at your school and they have your intended major. Do as much volunteer work as you can in your field and keep track of your hours so that you will be able to put an accurate number on your application to vet school. Most of all, enjoy yourself and don't make it hard for others to get close to you. Those that really matter will be there until the end. Let those that want to walk out of your life go and do not hold it against them. Have fun!

Gabrielle

If I could tell myself anything before graduating high school, I would tell me to apply for as many scholarships as possible no matter the probability of winning. As a freshman living in Vail, Arizona, driving forty-five minutes and then walking another fifteen to get to a class from my parking place is not ideal for timing. I'd tell myself how much fun I'd have in college as a Gender & Women's Studies major with engaging and practical classes, as well as with my new found family on the U of A's Women's Rugby team, which would hopefully motivate me to apply for enough scholarships to afford living near campus. On top of that, I would tell myself that there is a lot of improvement needing to be made in my time management, or lack there of, because being a full-time student, part-time employee, and serious athlete can stretch you thin on time. And before I left myself, I would also leave me with the words of encouragement, "don't worry; no matter what you choose to do, you'll wreak havoc doing it!"

Mia

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself not to worry. I feel like I was expecting college to be much more difficult than it is, and so I would tell myself not to worry because I was well prepared by my high school experience. Making the transition into college life was very easy for me, and I found that classes were hard enough to be challenging, but I was able to handle my course load well, and to learn a lot, especially from my freshman year. If I were to give myself some advice, it would just be to relax and enjoy the experience because I really was equipped for the next phase of my life.

ikechukwu

The advice I would give to myself as a high school senior would be to take more classes at a junior college in order to lessen the amount of general education requirements necessary to complete my major here at the University of Arizona. I would also include to search for more scholarships through the internet and the college center to lessen the costs of tuition and other various fees. Amongst the advice given, I would include how important it is to get all my FAFSA paper work done early. Last but not least, to finish senior year strong.

Sarah

Advice to myself high school senior think the unexpected especially first year of college your life will change in a great way you just got to keep up. By starting to learn to be more organize especially on time, because once you’re in college time and organization is key. Scheduling the time to study, homework, and other activities can be time consuming if not organizing your time. Take advantage of honors classes and opportunities to help the community this will help you be connected, is important of who you know and who knows you. Also do not be lazy about writing essays because not a week goes by when I do have to write a paper. Taking counselors advice about scholarships might be a big one because no matter what you’re spending out of your pocket and having help with a little extra cash even it’s a small amount can be quiet some help. Another advice to be prepared of taking action for your own responsibilites. Life from the day you start college no one will be holding your hand the whole time friends might not be there. Begin to motivate yourself and be a confident student

Angey

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior there are many things I would share. I would study what I am passionate about. I think that is so important and I was never told to study what I liked. I would also join study groups and other school activities. I would choose a college based on its programs. I would make new friends and embrace their differences.

Sean

Be prepared for long nights of study sessions. Make more friends to be able to have study groups and work on material with others. Get a bike. You should not forget to have fun. do not put too much pressure on yourself, and Bear Down.

Amethyst

The advice I give to myself would be to make sure to visit the school you decide you want to attend; and if you don't immediately feel like the campus is home and where you are meant to be then consider that maybe you should look elsewhere to study. This is because if you go to a school you only somewhat like you may spend your freshman year hearing everyone else talk about how much they love their schools, and end up wishing you were somewhere else. I would also tell myself to make sure to join every club and take all the service hours I can during my final year. It may have felt like I was done and it didn't matter anymore, but now I'm matched up against people with much more experience and extracurriculars than I, and am falling behind and wishing I had pushed myself during those last few months of high school rather than assuming I could slack. Also, make sure to talk to people already in college, see what it's like, prepare yourself, it will make for a much smoother transistion.

Amanda

I would tell myself that it's okay to be scared and nervous- trying to hide the fact that this big step is looming over you and you are a little freaked out doesn't do you any good. Remember this- these are going to be the greatest years of your life and everyone starts out in the same place as you. The fun never stops and the academic classes are actually interesting since they pertain to your goal in life. The friendships you form, both with peers and professors, make it seem like you are living in a dream and are so blessed to have the opportunity. Sure, you might end up learning a different major is better suited for you or maybe you don't want to live in the snow but that's okay because college is the time to figure everything out and discover who you are. Soak it all up, take it all in, and realize that you are living the perfect life with amazing friends, in a new world, starting over and having the chance of a lifetime to be who you want to be and make a mark on the world.

Esteban

If there is one thing I would have told myself, that would be to focus less on my job, and more on school. Although my grades throughout both semesters of senior year were nothing but A's, I wish I could have taken the time to get more involved more in school. Unofrtunately, it has now became a nuisance to attempt to do anything extra curricular. As I have learned from most of the upper classmen, envolvement is very important, especially looking into the future. Extra curricular is not only fun and a good way of passing one's time, but it also benefits to getting an even better job in the future. That being said, the lesson I would have given myself would be to do what I can now (extra curricular activities and getting involved), and leave all other wants for another time.

Hunter

I would tell myself to be strong. Many changes and struggles occur when you move out on your own and the greatest of these is personal responsibility. In college, school work and home life are emphasized by personal responsibility and too often, we forget that. The first key to success is being able to motivate oneself and I would advise myself to learn and excel in that trait. I would warn myself about the fragilty of friedships and how sometimes people change, but I would encourage myself that college is a time of growth and self-discovery. Without throwing caution to the wind, I would encourage myself to explore and try new things and to figure out who I am outside of my family and friends and to realize who the truly important people are in my life. I would encourage myself to be diligent in my studies, but to above all else have fun and stay positive.

Sara

If I could go back, I wouldn't hesitate to tell myself to put as much effort as possible into my college applications and financial aid applications. Despite how overwhelming it was at the time, I feel that if I knew then what I know now I would've made a larger effort to make myself known and reaped the benefits come fall. I would also tell myself to study, lots and lots, to never take my resources for granted and utilize all the time available to me, because time is one of the few things you can never get back.

Keith

To talk to myself as a high school senior would be difficult. At that point in my life I had no desire to attend college and wanted to do my own thing. However, deciding to go to college has been the best decision of my life. The main thing I would want to advise my younger self on would be how to interact with people. I would tell me to open up to new ideas and to embrace the fun that life has to offer. I'd also want me to know that college is a remarkable place filled with endless resources for knowledge. I used to think that college was just more of the same subjects from high school, but I've found some very unique topics of study that have challenged me. I'd also emphasize organization. In high school, there's a bell that tells you it's time for class and all of the teachers know your name. In college, your education becomes your responsibility as opposed to your obligation. Staying organized will help you make the transition more easily.

Shaun

Dear High School me,Here is my advice to you as a high school senior. Work your hardest because high school might seem like a waste of time, but in reality once you get to college you realize that high school is so important and it is a preparation to college. Complete your homework, form great study habits, get used to the library, and learn how to manage your time between school work and your social life. Stop hanging out with your friends all the time, and pick up a book every now and then. Learn how to cite properly, write research papers, and become familiar with your email. Learn to appreciate your education and not just rush it away! Start to think about what you are interested in and what your good at, and think about possible careers in the future. Set yourself goals, and complete them. It only makes you feel a lot better about yourself! And also, let go of mom and dad, it’s time to learn how to live on your own! Good Luck, I know you will be successful if you listen! Remember, getting involved is fun and important!-ME

Saquan

The advice I would give someone is to make sure that they keep their heads in their books and do all research before attending a school. Do all research because you don't want to fear being unhappy.

Aleria

I am not going to assume that I can go back in time and give myself advice, because my experience and mistakes allows me to encourage and help others. The advice I would give high school seniors is to believe in themselves. As cliche as that may sound, it is important for them to believe in their dreams and their abilities to reach there goals. I would also tell them to stay focused and be well organized throughout the college admission process and collegiate career. Last but not least I would tell them to maximize every opportunity whether it be being active on campus, taking internships, or working a part-time job. Enjoy the college experience it is the thresh-hold of adulthood.

Erin

To be able to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior would be a gift. I always believed I valued my education highly, but looking back, I am not so sure. Graduating high school and entering the univeristy was an overwhelming experience in many ways. Had I known at 18 years old that choices I was making regarding my educational track would lead me to forks in the road where I may be lead astray, I would have given situations more thought. At 30 years old today, returning to college for the second time, I value my education and what I know I will be getting out of it so much more. I study daily, focus all my efforts on my grades and never let my end goal out of sight: to become a nurse. If I were to go back and talk to my high school self, I would say: Whatever you do today, whatever choices you make today, how you value the priceless education you are getting today, will be with you for the rest of your life. Appreciate and respect your education; it can make you great.

Marissa

I would make sure to really explore multiple college options. Don't just look at academics. Look into the social activities and student recreation at whatever campus you're interested in, even if you don't consider yourself to be a very social person. Spend a day on campus following someone during they're day to day routine, not just some guided tour that's meant to sell the college to you. Sit in on classes, explore the facilities. Consider how much time you're planning on spending on campus (commute or living on campus), and also look into what's within walking distance nearby. Don't just settle because you're unsure of what you want. Take time to really think about what you're looking for, and what you might possibly want later on.

Alyssa

Knowing about the transition of moving out of my parents home, I would let myself know that moving in with a boyfriend is just an awful idea.

Dylan

I would tell myself to become more independent and work harder to prepare myself to handle the responsibilites of living on my own. I often found myself staying up late doing homework, laundry etc. during the beginning of the year because my time management skills were not very good. If I would have learned earlier to divide my time appropriately and efficiently I could have avoided staying up late. In high school, I waited to do my assignments at night because I didn't have as many responsibilities. I found out very abruptly that it would not be the same in college. If I had a chance to tell myself to change my study habits and make sure that I could manage my time to accompany for more obligations I would have had a much easier time making the transition.

Dominic

I would advise myself to go straight into business and that apartments are the best living situation. I would definitely recommend for myself to join the same extracurriculars, but cut things down to 4 years.

Sara

I wish I had known about getting involved early in college. You can get lost in the crowd here, so it is good to find a nice where you fit in. I should have brought more clothes for going out and partying, because I did not have the right sort of clothes for that. Allow time to come home, as you will want to after a while. Internships are everywhere, so find them! Nothing looks better on a resume. Don't force a friendship with someone, eventually it won't work if it is forced.

Taylor

First, I would tell myself to start preparing earlier. I didn't start applying for colleges until December or January of my Senior year. By this time, at least half of the colleges I was considering had already passed the application deadline. As for the transition into college life, I would recommend to myself to live on-campus the first year, if at all possible. I made the decision to attend the University of Arizona too late to stay in a dorm, but seeing how involved the students are at the dorms, it is a great way to get used to college life. I would tell myself not to take online classes, at least for the first semester. They make your schedule look smaller, but you actually have to take "free time" to do them. Along with the schedule, try to get morning classes. I was already used to waking up for school at 6:30 every day and it worked out fine, but when I got to college, my first class wasn't until noon or 2 p.m. on a given day, and that just kills your free time for the day. It is not worth sleeping in.

Konate

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior. Knowing what I know now about college life and making the transition, I would told myself to not be affraid. Abdel, you can meet your goals also. You can do well. keep going and meet your goals. don't be discourage and even if you feel like other people have given up on you, don't ever give up on you . The future of your country depends on you.

Beatriz

I say “Do not procrastinate because time is very valuable. “I was, like many, a professional at procrastinating. By doing so I did other unproductive things. I could have gotten m y homework and assignments done first, which would have allowed me more time to search and apply for scholarships. It was not until my senior year in high school that I realized that I had been procrastinating not only on my school assignments (which I would receive days before and not do them until a day before the due date and obtain a good grade), but that I had been putting off applying for scholarships. Therefore, I did not apply for as much scholarships as I would have wanted to; I had to balance school work from high school, college applications, and scholarships applications. By telling my high school self to not procrastinate I would have had applied and possible received more scholarship money to fund my college education.

Samuel

I would tell myself to work harder and create better work and study habits. I also would tell myself that i dont have to have straight A's in order to get some kind of financial aid. Most importantly i would tell myself to try and learn new things.

Yanett

If I knew back then what I know today, I probably would have made smarter choices when it came to school. I know I had the tools to get to where I am now heading, but I was a lost puppy. I relied too much on others to help guide me, instead of finding my own knowledge and tools to achieve what I wanted. If I could, I would tell myself not to be scared- I know now that the fright I felt for the change that I would go through was only temporary. I lacked discipline from the beginning of my senior year; not once did I feel good enough to go to college. It wasn't until half way through second semester that I started looking for scholarships and working hard. If I could go back, I would tell my younger self to not lose sight of what I wanted, of what's really important.

Anthony

Do not stress about how big of a life changer college is. Yes at first it will be difficult, but trust me, it is truly a blast to experience freedom and the power to create a well rounded education. Don't worry about making friends because that is probably the easiest part about college, and remember every other freshman knows practically noone. Be friendly and open minded to your surroundings, and definately take the advice of the upperclassmen who are here to help. Don't get caught up in any of the negative hype college does offer, but be willing to take risks both socially and academically. Push yourself and be proud of the accomplishments you have in your college experience. Make it fun because then it really will be the best time of your life.

Joshua

If I could go back in time I would first, tell my self to buckle down on my high school grades and the ACT. I would also tell my self to get some scholarships done and to apply to KU. The one thing to remember would be to get scholarships done, as many as possible, I will need the money. I would tell my self later I would declare a major in Civil Engineering and that community college isn't bad if I decided to go that route, but to make sure all my classes would transfer to KU before I actuall took them. I would tell my self that community college and working part time at the Commissary was a great. Lastly I would tell myself not to worrie, that I would do well in whatever I decided. Just try your best and work your hardest in all aspects of life. Oh, and don't forget to give yourself a little free time for hunting and fun, your young don't always work yourself too hard.

Marisela

I would give myself the advice to first off not freak out by the transition or the workload. Also, in college you have to be self motivated and definitely pay attention in class, take notes and study for tsts. Sitting dwon in the library for a few hours is a great way to get things done. Have a daily planner, mark important dates down and write everything you need to do on a daily basis down. Get as detailed in planning and preparing as possible, and also remember to enjoy it all.

Amanda

I would recommend to myself to get more involved in campus activities. Not only would i suggest going to more high school sports games and dances but get involved with student government and volunteer to participate in events. I know now as an active college student that overall self esteem, group communication, leadership and work ethic are greatly improved by participation. As VP of a college club I must take responsibility for more than just my class work and grades. I must also immerse my self in the community of students and peers and force myself to work more efficiently and mature faster as a student and an individual. I would tell myself to not get dicouraged by the lack of fun and success from some of the activities you participate in. The more you do the more you end up with succesful, life affirming oppurtunities to complete and remember. Any experience is worth the knowledge gained.

shamoi

Hi, my name is Shamoi Shaw, I am currently a College student and also a single parent. The advise I would give to myself is to work hard , get an education because education is the key to success. In high school I thought that I could have fun been a teenager but I gave myself too much time from taking part in school. I forgot about what I want to become in the future and how school was important to me. My goal is to become a teacher and inspite of what happened in the pass I continue to tell myself that I am going to make it in life . I will never give up on my dreams . I will Study hard because once I work hard I must succeed. From this day on I will achieve and I promise to work hard and always to put god first in everything I do.

Adaleta

As a high school senior, I would have told myself not to move out of my parent's home when I was 18. At the time, the University of Arizona was my first choice because they offered me the most money for my freshman year. I wanted to get as far away from my parents and their mental abuse. Arizona seemed far enough. Now that I am matured, and experienced college life, I regret going so far away because I do miss my family, friends, and boyfriend. It is always difficult to get used to the situation we are in at the time. I wish I had chosen to go to LMU or UCLA, but I did not accept LMU's offer and I did not apply to UCLA, USC or any schools in the area because I did not want to live at home. College is great at UA becaue of the school spirit, but a little closer to home and in-state is what I need now as a junior. Although I made a decision based on my situation at the time (living alone at 18), I would choose to live in LA now.

Jorge

Assuming that I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would advise me to effort even better that what I did in my last year of high school. Unfortunately, I did never have a friend or family member who advised me planning about my post-education. But, it was not an obstacle to hesitate about thinking in my future. Knowing what I know now about the responsibility in college, that effort in high school would be very helpful, and the transition would not be as shocking as I did not expect.