University of Arizona Top Questions

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

Roberto

I have made forged many meaningful friendships with very interesting and kind people. I recommend joining any clubs or organizations that seem appealing. In a school this size, it always helps to know a lot of people and clubs and student organizations are a great way of accomplishing that goal. The classes are fun when you apply yourself to them and it's very rewarding when you get a good grade after working so hard. It is a valuable school to attend because there is a strong sense of school spirit and unity among the students. The people you meet here are wonderful and it's also great to familiarize yourself with the school in a way that you can positively look back on.

Kelly

In the past two years, my college experience has been one of the most memorable and unique experiences I will probably have throughout my life. I feel that not only have I gained an exceptional knowledge and learned an exceptional amount in classes, but I have also learned a great deal about myself and the world around me. College for me has not only educated me about academics, but also about real world situations and people. I feel that this experience and wealth of knowledge is priceless. It has been incredibly valuable to attend and learn so much about the world that I am living in and how I fit into it. My interactions with all different types of people, through extracurricular activities and classes has opened my eyes to what a diverse world we live in. I have been challenged in many ways and have grown so much as an individual. My college experience has really helped to shape me as a person and clarify who I am, what I believe, and what I want to do with my future.

mary

When I first entered back into college. I felt so out of place, because the faces were much younger. I kids just graduating out of high school. As I continued to go my thoughts changed a lot, because even though there were a lot of age differences, we all were pursuing the same thing, an education to better ourselves. It has and still is valuable to me to attend because it makes me more marketable in the work force and I can pursue my dreams of having a college education.

Leslie

I have not only gained knowledge not easily found on my own, but added new insight to my own processes and rare insight into myself. The Professors have been more than supportive, giving me extra help to work around my disabilities rather than struggle with them. My education is valuable for so much more than job prospects or social encounters however, it has truly opened up how I see myself and my contributions to the world. Because I am and older woman and disabled, I am often discouraged or depressedabout my situation, and attending college has shown me how many more opportunities I can embrace than I would have believed possible. I never knew I was a good student! College has given me access to more information, better social encounters and has freed me from so many self-imposed restrictions. I truly believe I would not be as healthily functioning as I am today without college.

Sean

Another question? Seriously? I thought it was just a survey.

Kayla

I have discovered what I really love and what I actually want to do with my life. I began unsure of my interests and chose to pursue medicine based on financial benefits alone, but college courses have helped me find discover more exciting fields to enter and introduced me to linguistics which I love and am now currently pursuing. I am now looking forward to my future as a linguist thanks to my college experience. I have also been able to learn much about things that have come to interest me, specifically foreign languages. Taking a foreign language course allows me to practice and learn a foreign language even though I am not in the country that speaks that language. College has helped me big decisions about my future.

john

As a non-traditional student I have had the opportunity to see and experience college as an adult. I think being a non-traditional student has benifited me, as I have a better work ethic and have a little more life experience. My college experience is going to allow me to have a better, more rewarding job in the near future.

Ana

Through out my college experience, I have met many people of different races, sexual orientation, religions, etc. that have helped me open up my mind to the views others. Although I am not involved with many clubs or activities in my university, I still see the events that go on and participate to help them out. I think that the most important part of the university, besides getting a degree, is meeting life long friends and being able to open up your mind to view the views of others. Being open minded is very important for the real world since there are so many different types of people around. It has been valuable going to the U of A because I have learned so much, aside from acedemics, which will help me for when I go into a career in my future and meet more people from around the world.

MEGAN

I have gotten much experience from College, I have learned how rewarding it can be to help the environment and your cummuntiy by participatin in college campus blood drives, and helping toher students clean the sacramento river. I have also learned how fulfilling school really is, My classes have helped me learn more about myself and my surrounding, I have learned how to stimulate relationships and how to listen to people so that they understand that I am listening. I have learned how to more delicately interact with people and how to approach sensitive situations so that I may diffuse them. My experience in college has been tremendously rewarding and I have learned many new and very practical, very useful inter-personal skills.

Branden

Attending the University of Arizona has been valuable to me because it is has allowed myself to develop further as a person. Academically, I am on track to graduate in two years with a business degree, I am studying abroad next semester, and I feel I have learned more than I expected. Socially, I have met many new people and lifelong friends, enjoyed good times, and learned how to let loose and just have fun. Personally, I feel I have learned more about myself in these 2-3 years than the other18 years of my life combined. I now know what my strengths and weaknesses are , I have further developed my relationships with family and friends, and coming to Arizona has allowed me to step outside of my comfort zone. All in all, these factors combine to produce the person I am today. The amount I have learned both inside and outside of the classroom is incredible, and the people I have met, from all walks of life, will forever be considered my friends. While I am unsure what the future holds in regards to my location, I know I will have friends all over the country after graduating here.

Mark

I am an adopted child that was written off by "guardians." However, this was not going to be an obstacle for future success. I enrolled at the University of Phoenix and completed a two-year degree in Business on-line. The experience had its pros and cons. The pros included working with people on group projects that you never interacted with personally, but were from all over the world, which was great experience for future career settings. The cons were that I had limited help from instructors, minimal resource availablility, and social life with other students was non-existant! I transfered into the University of Arizona and the cons of previous college experiences were turned upside down. I was and still am members of clubs on campus, participate in athletic events, and taking full advantage of resources such as campus tutoring, counseling, advising, and the numerous activities that are available each week. College has been a maturing time of my life interacting with others and gaining a world-class education in the field of business. The value gained from college is the future security in the work-force and knowledge one will not gain outside of academia.

Kimberly

I am a first generation college student so that alone is remarkable to my family and I. Being at the University of Arizona has given me the opportunity to meet amazing people and has filled me with a sense of pride. I love the diversity that the campus has to offer and the feeling of independence I have as a student here. With that independance comes responsibility, and the University of Arizona emphasizes that. Success comes with determination, motivation, and sacrifice. But at the same time, the university has taught me to have fun with life.

Nicole

The University of Arizona has been a great experience for me. Even though I am not a student that likes to party, I have learned that some people can party without it affecting their school work. I love being a student at the University of Arizona because it is close to home and the campus is beautiful. I have met some wonderful friends that help keep me on track as I do them. The Psychology and Special Education program are well-conducted and have some very educated people in the field. In the Psychology department there are many opportunities to work within the field and help with research topics. In the Special Education field there are many schools and opportunities that the school offers to help students get real-life experience. As long as you are a person that can guide yourself and are very independent the University of Arizona would be a great opportunity for you. There are many computer labs which allows any student not to have to own their own computer. Conveince is also a factor at the University of Arizona, everything that a student needs to survive is within walking distance. It is a great campus!

Robert

Education is power. Education is knowledge. Education is the difference of being in the know and being the dark. Education is just simply everything to me. College is the best experience I've had in my life so far and I have gotten a vast amount of knowledge, maturity, insight, liberalism and pride out of it. And I'm only in my second year. I simply cannot imagine what life would be like without college education especially the college education from such a school like the UofA. The amount of material I've learned, the new and old people I've met, the discovery of what actually happens and happened to the people I went to high school with, the friendships I've made (and "friendships" I'd want to break), and the realizations and enlightenments of the amount of time, effort and brains to succeed in school and life are just the reasons I could think of right now to say that the college experience I've had so far is certainly a valuable experince.

Christen

After graduating in 2004 with my Bachelor's in Psychology, and completing 48 credits towards a Master's degree in Marriage and Family Therapy, I have decided to further my education by going to school for my RN license. Not only has my college experience been beneficial in an educational aspect, but has actually been helpful in many aspects of my own life. As a single, working mother of a four year old, being a nursing student is more than stressful; however, my drive and motivation to succeed in life, no matter how difficult the situation, sets a wonderful example for my daughter. While taking the Marriage and Family Therapy classes, my parents divorced after 25 years of marriage. No words can describe how helpful the program ended up being during this difficult time for me. Making others smile, working and studying in a counseling/health care field, and learning to assess the individual needs of each patient that I will work with is rewarding, humbling, challenging, and enjoyable. My college experience thus far has played a large part in making me who I am today, and continuing this journey in nursing school will make me an even stronger person.

Brittany

I have been in college since October and I feel I have learned so much in the short month I've been there. I am going to the Fashion Institute of Design and Technology majoring in merchandise marketing. I love all my classes; my teachers are very engaging,and helpful. One thig I've learned is to go out of my comfort zone and meet new people and try to get involoved in the school's activities. I really feel its all about time management for me right now. With all the homework, working part-time, group projects, and still trying to get some sleep I feel this is where I am growing and learning the most. It has been so valuable to attend FIDM because the classes are directed toward my major and I am learning so much. I really love learning and wanting to grow more knowledgeable in my studies. I want to do the best I can do, so when I do enter the "working world' I will be prepared with an amazing education under my belt; along with the fun exeriences I will encounter as well.

Sonia

Before attending the University of Arizona I was very close minded. I hadn't much experience with other races or people with such passion for an education. I attended I lower/ middle class High School, where about 30 of us are now attending a University or Community College. I come from a family that did not attend college, I'm a first generation student. It has been difficult at times to keep my home life and school life at the same level. They both require a lot of time, however I've experienced that without the support of my family I would not be where I am today. I thoroughly enjoy attending this University and it has led me to place a higher standard for myself and my education.

John

nothing

John

I have made some good friends and broadened my horizons, and it has been valuable because I feel it is setting me up for future success.

Hannah

Throughout my college experience I have gained more than I ever imagined I would. I feel like I will be able to become a more effective and successful teacher using the knowledge I have gained from Frederick Community College and Hood College. I have learned teaching techniques, how to write a lesson plan, tips for parental interactions, and so much more while studying at both of these great Colleges. I feel that upon entering the classroom as a teacher I will be well prepared to do a great job using the tools and resources that I have learned at both colleges. It has been valuable to attend because you get so much out of interacting with other teachers and teacher candidates. You are able to learn through others' experiences and interactions. I have also had the opportunity to meet great people along the way and have made friendships that will last a lifetime. The other valuable item that I have received from attending Frederick Community College is my A.A.T. degree in Elementary Education and I will soon have my Bachelors degree from Hood College in Elementary and Special Education.

kathia

College its self will prepare you for what the future brings. In this century technology is advancing at a blink of a eye, why get left behind? Its best to stand up ,get educated, and leave your foot step behind with honor for the future generations to follow!

FAVOUR

WHEN I STARTED MY COLLEGE EXPERIENCE, I IMMEDEATELY KNEW THAT MY DREAM WAS COMING TRUE. I NEVER EVEN KNEW THAT I COULD GO TO COLLEGE, BUT HERE I AM PURSUING MY DEGREE IN THE HOSPITALITY INDUSTRY.

tandy

College has made me a better and different person. College made me grow up and have an new outlook at life. I find myself being much more openminded and understanding about certain views I never gave a chance before. You learn so much more about life and the world in college than in highschool. I definetley feel that I am more confident. I use to be very shy, but now I feel prepared. I think going to college is the best thing i could have done for myself because now i will be able to get and keep a job. I will also be able to take care of my family. I have a 3 year old daughter that I will be able to provide for. I know she will be very proud of me when she understands I went to college for her. I was only 17 when she was born so I know my family and friends are also very proud of me. College has been a necessary and wonderful growing experience for me that I wish everyone could experience.

Shayna

My college experience is going to be one to remember. I have been provided with so many opportunities to further my learning abilities. I was able to Study Abroad to Spain for one summer and complete course work towards my major. I am able to complete an internship while still working on course work towards my major. The University of Arizona has provided so much diversity for me while working towards my degree. This school has also made me want to pursue more in my life; I am going to applying for Law School. My course work is extremely intense because I am a double major and a double minor, but that doesn't stop me from participating in school activities such as football games. The University of Arizona has taught me a lot so far and I still have one more year to go. I have volunteered in a high school Spanish class while attending the university, I have volunteered at two elementary schools talking about drugs and making flags for Veterans Day. The University of Arizona has shown me that there is so much more than just taking classes, which I will take with more everywhere.

Amanda

I have learned so much within this first semester. It has been a big change but I have learned to adjust. My first semester has been at a four year University but in the Spring I am transferring to a community college to save money for my dream University. I have learned a lot about myself and about who I really am. I now know how I study best, learn best and also a better work ethic. Most of all, I have become more responsible and opened up to the real world.

Cuauhtemoc

What I have Gooten out of college is the way I have been getting involve, everything i have learn.

Lydia

My college experience has taught me to value the underdog. Generally, people do not have a very high opinion of community colleges, but I have met many inspirational professors and students, who, like those at universites, are striving to excel. I have also gained a broadened viewpoint of my community's needs. This will help me better serve my neighbors in my intended field of nursing.

Matthew

In my experience as a college student at both a traditional unversity and a community/jr. college, I have found that the superior educational value comes not from a big campus with a nationally recognized name, but from the two year colleges across the country that strive to do nothing more than prepare, as best as possible, students for the transfer into a traditional college, or more important, the transfer into adulthood. The training and education that I have received at Westmoreland County Community College has easily surpassed that of both four year institutions I have attended; and if nothing else, I have recognized and found full appreciation for the young men and women who I study with every day, knowing full and well that they will be the ones who have the most appreciable education, and will be powerful allies for any traditional college student.

Mark

I've learned what actually matters in life. Money. Life would be so much easier if I could finance everything without having to stress relentlessly. I have worked nearly full time my entire time here at the U of A, and have a scholarship, and still have trouble making ends meet. The problem is that I'm not the smartest guy in the world and I'm not the most ethnically diverse guy in the world, and my parents are the poorest in the world, so I don't qualify for anything based upon 'need' or race, but boy could I use some financial aid. Now I plan on making a trip to South Korea in the spring through Study Abroad because I will likely never have another chance to do something like this. I'm so excited for the opportunity to get some new culture and change in my life but I'm sure sweating the bill.

Kimberly

In my college experience, I have met many new people and built a community of friends. I have been a part of a small community in my major within the campus community where there are people with similar interests and struggles to help each other. This small community will only grow and become essential to help me through my career. I could not have been a part of this without attending the University of Arizona. In my classes I have learned not only content in the subject, but also many additional resources and ways to be an active participant rather than a bystander.

shelby

I have literally transitioned into my own person. Coming from a very strict household where I wasn't necessarily able to find out what kind of a person I really am, I feel like I am finally being able to grasp that. Everything is up to me whether I want to fall between the cracks and slither through life or rise up to reach my potential and try my hardest at everything I do. Regardless of how hard it is, the fact that these choices are mine and mine alone force, or better yet, allow, you to become an individual. I have met some of the greatest people and out of such an enormous campus, you really have options as to what kind of people you want to spend time with and become closer to. They too shape who you are. Everything we are doing at this point in our lives are creating what kind of a future we want to have and for that I am greatful that I was abel to attend such a beautiful school - now I just have to find out how to pay the out of state fees! :)

Stephanie

I have been able to get a lot out of my college experience. At the beginning of this whole experience I wasn't sure what the world had to offer me in terms of reaching my dreams and now I am very much aware. I know that I want to do research in mathematics and that I want to teach it in the future. I know now that good teachers are hard to come by and I am very much looking forward to educating a younger generation on the things I have been able to learn about mathematics. College is a very important step in everyone's future, from what you learn to the people you meet. It will impact what you can do and what dreams you can accomplish.

Evelyn

I've been at the UofA for almost five months now. By far my experience in college has been great. I have met many people from all over the US and from out of the country. I've learned the importance of being involved and being outgoing. I've learned that by being outgoing and getting involved in school is a way to meet important people that will get me to important places later in my career. To me, being able to attend college is a very valuable opportunity. I say this because I am the first in my family to be able to attend college. Given such opportunity I hope to really take advantage of it and gain much knowledge and education necessary throughout my college career.

Kevin

I have had the wonderful opportunity to work with many world renowned scientists at many world class telescope facilities. In addition to my studies, I actively participate in clubs and educational outreach activities within my community. It has been valuable to attend because I will now be prepared for graduate school wherever I decide to go. Without college these days, it is hard to excel in life, and I have been given the opportunity to not only help myself, but help others in the process.

stacy

My college experiecne has been vauleable to me ,in the since, that I am meeting alot of different people. People who I may not have been in the presence of during my day to day life. I have only attended Pulaski Techincal College since to first day of Summer II classes, but I have meet many of the faculity and students. The information they have provided to me thus far is grtting me to points of my education otherwise not available.

Natanya

I have learned that hardwork will take you places. In high school I worked really hard to make it to college and now I'm here and I 'nt be happier!

Jennifer

I have gained a huge learning experience from attending college. I have learned so much about myself and my capabilities while going to school. I have learned what to do and what not to do when it comes to my academics. I have learned which methods of study are best for me. I have learned about resources that are available to me to help me succeed. As long as I continue to go to school, I will continue to learn all there is t know about being a successful student as well as a successful person. All of this has made me a better student. I cannot imagine not attending college because of everything I have gained. School has helped me grow and it will prepare me for my future of being a surgeon. College has helped me in so many ways and I am thankful for what it has taught me.

Madeeha

I grew up in a small town in Pakistan. Attending college here in America has been a blessing because i know that there are alot of other girls who would love to be here where i am. University of Arizona has given me a lot of opportunities to expand my knowledge. I love interacting with my classmates and helping others. Being here is a great experience I became very active in community services, I’m currently a member of Muslim Student Associations, Tucson Multicultural organization, Leaders meet yourself and a c-founder of Tarz Punjab Di dance team. I have struggled a lot throughout this whole learning experience. Learning English wasn’t easy for me and I still struggle with it even today. I see myself as a unique individual because I know that when I sit down in any class and take notes I have to go home and translate the same notes in my official language (urdu). I’m from a lower middle class so paying for food on campus and transportation has been a problem for me, but I have learned to keep on going with my studies becausse one day i will see myself succeed.

Victoria

My College Experience By Victoria Lowe As a late-to-enter-college student, I have counted each class and each teacher as a blessing. No matter the subject, I am eager to attend and enjoy preparing each assignment because I almost didn’t get the opportunity to attend. My high school years were tumultuous so college was not an option. When I finally grew up a little, college was where I wanted to be. I made the right decision. I have come full circle, know exactly what my goals are, and look forward to a career in veterinary medicine. Life is as good as it gets now, and all because of college! The days fly by, I have met awesome faculty and staff, my peers are encouraging, and my grades…well, I am in a national honor society! I can’t imagine not being right where I am! College has made the best better.

Saul

Being away from home and attending college has its perks. No bedtime, curfew, or anyone nagging over chores. There are parties every night. It is easy to see why some students can lose focus. The fact of the matter is that living away from home to attend the University of Arizona has caused me to become an adult. I don't know why, but I almost hate to say it. I have come to the realization that life isn't easy. The older I get, the more responsibilities I will have to bear with. It woud be easy for me to sleep through some of my 8 A.M classes, but then I would fall behind. I could go out and party, but then I won't be ready for my next wave of exams. By attending college and going towards a pharmacy degree, I have come to realize that if it was easy, everyone would do it. Hard work and dedication is what will seperate the successful from the rest. I have applied this type of thinking towards everything I do; including my job. If I'm not going to give it my all, than I won't bother.

Traci

While I have been in college, I have had a various amount of experiences. While not all may have been good, they were all learning experiences. They have helped me to figure not only myself out but also what I really want out of my life. I have had the ability to meet some of the best people and teachers that I have ever had. All of whom were always there for fellow students and I when we needed help or advice. They have helped to make college that much more enjoyable. It has been a great value to me to attend college, not only because I am part of the first generation in my family to attend but also because it is giving me a higher education that will put me in the right direction to achieving the goals that I want to in life. Without college, and any of the experiences that I have had while in school, I would be unable to fulfill my dreams and goals.

Alex

When I was a High School senior, I was first scared to attend college. This decision would affect me for the rest of my life and I need to make the right choice based on my needs and interests. Although I am only a freshman, I have gotten a good idea of what life is like on and off the U of A campus. The campus is beautiful with the rare scene of grass in Arizona, the people are friendly, there are always things to keep a student busy, and most importantly, the U of A treats the student like an adult. Going to college is an important step in one's life towards becoming completely independant (if one isn't already). The school can be academically difficult at times, but that's why the U of A has multiple buildings staffed with tutors of every class. What I'm trying to say out of this is that college has helped me grow up and take matters into my own hand. I moved from my parent's house, got an apartment, and pay for my own expenses.

Amanda

I have gotten so much knowledge and experience out of my college experience. It was when I first went to college that I discovered my love of Psychology. I've had some exceptional professors that have not only taught me things I didn't know but inspired me to want to learn more. I'm so excited about being back in school. I am finally back on my path towards my dream. I had a good job before, but it didn't fulfill me. It wasn't what I wanted to do for the rest of my life. My college education will give the knowlegde and degree I need to get into a career that will make me happy and fulfill my dreams. I want to show my children the importance of education and that you can acheive it at any age; to never give up on their dreams, no matter how long they take to acheive.

Kody

My college experience is valuable to me for many different reasons, but there is one reason why I wouldn’t give up my college experience for anything. Unfortunately, my first college experience was short lived and unsuccessful. During my first semester I failed because, at the time, I didn’t see the importance of it. I found myself stuck in a minimum wage job and still living with my parents. I realized that I was unhappy living an unproductive, lifestyle and that’s when I knew that I needed to do better. I wasn’t proud of my previous attempt at a college education so once I applied, was accepted, and registered for my classes, I put my whole heart into doing what was best for me and my family. As a young, Native American, in this economy, I have found it difficult to obtain a job and even more difficult to achieve one. I know that the uncertainty of minimum wage will be behind me shortly as I take each step to my degree. College has given me a chance to redeem myself from my past failures, and for the first time I am proud of my accomplishments.

Stephanie

I am a single mother to a toddler girl and my college experience has, above all else, molded me into a positive role model. My college career has given me lessons in self-sufficiency, financial responsibility, and growing up. I have struggled to find a balance between my academics and my family life, however now in my senior year of college, I find myself more successful as both a student and a mother. There was a time in my life when I felt it impossible to have a successful career and still be what I consider to be a good parent. The most important lesson I have learned in college is that I am capable of much more than I ever thought possible.

Mariana

I am extremely lucky to have the chance to attend the university. During the horrid state of this economy, finding a job and earning money has been tough. However, I now have a chance to further my educational career and realize my goal. It was an arduous journey; nonetheless I am grateful for attending the University of Arizona.

George

I've only had the privilege of attending college the summer right after I graduated high school in June 2010. I received 6 credits that summer with a GPA of 3.50 and absolutely loved the vigorous pace of college. My mother, who is a single parent, has not been working for over a year. She is in the process of changing careers but she does not have a significant education, so it is now impossible for her to support my endeavors. Education is extremely important because I DO NOT want my children to suffer from my actions as a youth. I have so much potential; the sky is the limit. I plan on going to school in the spring of 2011 at The University of Texas at San Antonio. They have an Air Force ROTC program, which is ranked number two in the nation! It would have been easier for me to just enlist in the Air Force, especially because I could have automatically started to receive money, the only catch is it’s difficult to complete your college education while doing an enlisted job. I want to serve and lead this great nation as a scholar.

Heather

Before I came to the University I lived in a very small world that consisted of my basic studies, my family and a small group of friends. After I began my education my world expanded exponentially. I still have my family and the same friends as before but now I have more friends and study buddies than I can count. Most importantly is that my studies are no longer basic. In the morning I can explore the ruins of Egypt and in the afternoon I can perform a chemistry experiment with volitile chemicals. I have learned so much in my short time here and I am excited to learn even more in the years to come.

Sarah

I am getting a college education... if that's not enough reason for it being valuable then maybe you should rethink your priorities...

Diana

Through my college experience I have met amazing professors that have helped me realize my tur potential. I am a non-traditional student so I have not experienced the typical "college experience" of living in a dorm or being a member of a social Greek group. However, I have experienced the life of the working college student. Attending college has been a valuable experience beyond receiving a "piece of paper." I have been able to apply classroom lectures to my everyday job. Another way it's been valuable to attend college is because I am on the way to making a better life. I know what it is like to live on my own with no college degree making minimum wage - in the future I will not have to do that. I have learned life lessons during college inside, and outside, the classroom.