University of Arizona Top Questions

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

Jennifer

Dear High School Senior Jenny, Challenge yourself; do not torture yourself. You aren't the best at math and science and that's okay because you will realize you are not suited to be a Biochemistry major anyway and change to Psychology which just feels right. You are much more responsible than you know and taking care of yourself will be a breeze, and although you prefer to share a house or dwelling with another human being, you can learn to be by yourself (way to go!). In short, do not underestimate yourself. Love, Yourself in one year.

Monica

Taking advanced classes and community college classes to get college credit was the best thing I ever did for my transistion. To make the transition more smooth, take any hard classes at a community college while enrolled in the normal university classes. This takes off the stress to get a great grade, as it doesn't affect your universtity GPA. I would say that transitioning students should take a smaller course load their first semester. I should have taken 12 units (full time at my school) my first semester in order to really get that change down. It is surprising how hard the classes are and how easy it is to forget an assignment! Be very organized. Keep a calander with due dates, but balance school and a social life too. Don't lose yourself in your classes and GPA, companies care about you being a well rounded and happy person also. GPA isn't everything! These are the years of your life you want to remember, so live them balanced. Don't make decisions you'll regret.

Tyler

I would tell myself that the college life is going to be hard but you should make the best of it. Not everything is going to come your way. You are an adult now and every action that you make will affect the rest of your life but you should never regret it because it is your life. College is going to be hard so you need to focus on the education and not the social life. And I would tell myself that you need to enjoy your life in the present as a high school student because trust me it will never be the same.

Sarah

Do more research about your IB credits. Find out if the honors classes you're taking will actually do you any good in college. Don't take anything that the University says for granted. Double check all of your information, especially when it comes to scholarships. Stay on top of things and don't assume that things will just magically fall into place for you. You will be homesick and it will be tough at times, but you'll get through it and have a blast. :)

Julia

I would have told myself to take more college courses throughout my summers in high school. I would have utilized my time in high school to improve on my time management skills. I would have applied to more scholarships and told myself that tutoring really does help. The professors, TA's, and instructors are not your enemy they are there to teach and you are there to learn. I would have said that taking two major science courses in the same semester is beyond insane! I would have said that in order to transition into the school you have to venture out because there is a whole world waiting for you. I would have also said that the freshman 15 does exist and panda every night doesnt count as a healthy meal. I would have said dont worry home isnt far away and they arent going anywhere.

Zachary

Be prepared for a whirlwind of fun, hard work, and all new experiences. The college lifestyle is fast-paced and vastly different from the life you lived in high school. Remember that you are on your own now and remember that you are at college for a purpose, and that is a good education. Attend class diligently because professors have no sympathy for absences and could honestly care less that you even attend class. College is about two things: learning and new experiences. These two things will prepare you for the life after college and you must be diligent and persistent in order to accomplish the goals that you set for yourself. It is time to take responsibility for yourself and realize that in order to be successful, you need to persevere and always remember that you are at school for a reason. It is okay to have fun, but you must realize that you are paying for this education, so take advantage of that and the amazing faculty that teaches you.

Patrick

Don't drink and drive

Bakha

Well, I think that no matter what advice someone gives you as a high school senior, can never prepare for the excitement that is college life. Being in high school and being in college are completely different. In high school , you are living with your parents and, in a sense, have to worry about less. When you're in college, you have a lot more freedom. With that freedom comes responsibility. You have to study and do assignments on your own. There is no one there to remind you, its up to you. At the same time, you make your own chioces about other things as well. So, I guess that when I was a senior I wish that I knew that I have to nit stress out about everything so much. I wish that I knew that even when you think you didn't do as well as you'd hoped, theres always tomorrow.

Mark

?Talk to advisors, ask a lot of questions, go out and get information yourself, never rely on other people to do the groundwork for you; the only person that fully understands your dreams and desires is you ?Set realistic goals based on life experiences and academic capabilities. No sense in overloading classes then failing half of them. This only makes college miserable ?Become more organized, make sure all documentation is correct and keep notes, or at least an information index card, on people you meet so you can refer back to the correct person if you need help or information ?Network with other students, some of the best deals are from word of mouth. ?Do not rush life, there will be plenty of time to party and enjoy your success after exams and graduation ?Always get to class at least five minutes early to relieve the stress of being late ?Sit in the front row of the class. You cannot be distracted by what other people are doing if you cannot see them. Another benefit of sitting upfront is the instructor seems as if they are lecturing to you personally

Sondra

I have often pictured myself as a senior in high school getting ready to graduate. If I could go back and re-do all of the mistakes that I have made, I would. I wish that I would have taken my studies more seriously and pushed myself to make higher grades. However, do to extreme circumstances, I did not. In my opinion, young people should more serious and commented to obtaining higher grades. Not only does meeting high academics help ones self-esteem, but it also better ones chances of receiving scholarships to help finance their education goals.

Jesus

When we, students, are in high school, the majority of us think that we have everything under control and that everything will run smooth all throughout college. If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school student I would defenitely tell myself to take just 1 hour out of every day looking for scholarships like this very one and just filling them out, not with the mentality that you're going to win that specific award, but just to say that you actually tried looking for money and it really wasn't out there. However, I would garauntee myself that if I took that hour a day filling out random scholarships, I would win at least one. I would also tell myself that paying for college is not what it seems, it's not as simple as saying, yeah its just tuition and books and a few extra things, big deal my parents could help me pay for that. Paying for college and all the miscellaneous costs that come along with it is not as easy as it seems especially when you realize your parents can't help you like you thought they would.

Kyle

Try to find out what you want to do as fast as possible. College is expensive. If you aren't sure what you want to do, at least try to pick an area of study that might lead you to a degree you might come across later. Otherwise you will have a lot of credits for nothing.

Leila

I would tell my high school self to really think about what I want to do when I graduate from college by talking to professionals in various careers and doing research. That would have saved me alot of time especially since many young people don't really know what they want to do for the rest of their lives, it is an important decision. Since I am a returning student who after 10 years of working and having a child who is now four, is back in college I would reassure my younger self that I have what it takes to succeed. While one should always try one's best, things happen and things change and I would tell myself not to worry so much and always be flexible, everything will work out in the end if you always practice honesty, kindness, and perserverance.

Katrina

Don't worry too much about not knowing a lot about college - it'll all come to you easily enough. Things aren't going to change the way you picture it, but a lot of things about you and your environment will change, and many exciting opportunities are coming your way. Don't worry about doing the activities you've always done - just do what you find you enjoy. Don't be afraid to try new things. Remember where you've come from, and you'll appreciate it all more. There will be some parts about college that you won't like, particularly your living situation in the beginning, but you'll survive, and probably become a stronger person. Appreciate the friends you have now, because you won't have them for long. It's tough to stay in contact after high school. Just relax, because everything will be okay.

Karen

The advise I would give myself is that continuing your education is of great importance. Not only will I further my career status, but make new friends, and memories that would last a life time. Teachers at this teaching level are much more caring and there to help make the experience of reaching your goals attainable and achievable. This experience is one that I was afraid to tackle, but now I am greatful that I have.

Zanae

The transition to college from high school is very tough. The classes are more rigorous and expect to have a heavy courseload at times. It may be frustrating and you might want to give up at times, but just stick through it and don't give up. The first year is probably the toughest because you have to learn how to adjust, but the key to succeeding your first year is time management and dedication. In high school, it was very easy to just say that you could save homework for later, but in college you need to realize that this is not possible. Make a schedule if you have to and just finish your work. The worst thing you can do in college is get behind, so at all costs, do not catch yourself getting behind in classes or it will catch up to you. One of the best things you can do is meet with your professors and attend study sessions and tutoring. There are plenty of opportunities on campus, just find what they are and use them. Professors are very helpful and they want you to succeed so put yourself out there!

Luchie

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would advice myself to apply for every single scholarship possible. College education is not cheap and every bit of scholarship really helps. I would also tell myself to stop spending money leisurely and save it for something more important such as books, rent payments, and groceries. Aside from being money smart, I would tell myself to be focused and stay focused because when I got to college, it was all about responsibilities and priorities. In high school, play time was allowed, almost anytime you wanted. On the contrary, play time in college is allowed but you have to choose wisely, it's books first then play later. I would've trained myself to start good habits like studying for exams and stop procrastinating. Lastly, I would spend more time with my family and friends since I won't be seeing them everyday.

Lorenzo

I would tell my self to focus on math alot. Another point where I had a difficult time was in my transition from a jr. college to a university. I would tell my self to go straight to the university because of Adv standing, having proper classes to get into the college. Start at the UA so that you build a GPA and some sort of ground upon which to stand it will aslo help with the Advanced standing issue.

Nicole

The most important lesson I learned at the University of Arizona thus far is the value of a balanced life. If I could advise my senior in highschool self, I would reccommend more involvement in extra curricular activities such as sports, further pursuit of academic achievements, and a strengthened commitment to learning. I would remind myself to pursue every possible achievement and to encourage others to do the same because every action plays a part in the large scheme of a person's life. I would tell myself to put a lot of effort into friendships because they greatly impact a person's happiness and, if maintained, help establish a network of contacts that is highly beneficial. I would also inform my younger self of the inner peace that comes with defining and acting upon one's beliefs. without beliefs to act upon, a person cannot make a confident descision. In conclusion, I would emphasize the value of balance in a person's life and that without social, academic, and spiritual outlets, a person cannot fully express themselves or live a truly full, healthy life.

Brandon

Both semesters of my senior High School I knew absolutely what I wanted my future to look like, but the futures looked different each semester. Ever since I saw the movie "Free Willy" I knew that I wanted to work with Whales, preferably in the Pacific Northwest as a Marine Biologist, but that changed one day in December when I decided to become a Pharmacist instead of a Marine Biologist. If I could go back to the time where I was a High School Senior I would tell myself to never let go of my dreams, and it's okay if the dream changes, but never let go of your dreams. I would also tell myself that college will be no picknick and that I really need to focus on my dreams and follow my principles so as to reach that dream. One last thing would be on my mind during this visit: don't worry about friends during the first couple of weeks, they will eventually come to you. These advice would be beneficial to myself: never give up on dreams, focus on schoolwork, follow principles, and be yourself to find your friends.

Alexandria

If I could go back in time to when I was a senior I would tell myself that I should take my time on picking what school I go to and not to leave the state just because I want to get away from the people in high school. I would also tell myself to be careful who I let in my life again.

Jay

As a college student now, I often find myself reflecting on what I would have told myself as a High School senior to better prepare for the transition. In those days, I honestly had no idea what college was all about, and was no-where-near being able to effectively transition to the college life. I was fixated on the idea that college was awesome, and I was going to go out and have fun every night and not have to study for anything. This, however, was a poorly conceived idea that would have had catastrophic effects on my grades. As such, I would go back and inform my former self of how important it is to study and do your homework. Also, I never fully realized how hard it is to take care of yourself when you?re living alone in a dorm. You cannot just eat anything you want, and tell yourself that you will work it off later. I?m not sure about other college students, but I have learned just how lazy I am through this last semester. As such, I would inform my former self of these issues to help smooth out the transition process.

Kianna

Start saving in as soon as possible, especially when considering an out of state school. It's common to change your major a couple times but realize that if you wait too long, that's more time in school and more out of state tuition from your account. Money shouldn't be the determining factor in anything, but it can be quite the hassel.

Keani

If I had the chance to go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to take college seriously. To go to class, do the homework, and make a concious effort to do well. I would tell myslef to focus on beig mature and taking care of my responsibilitites instead of worrying about my social life and the parties that I need to attend. I would stress to myself that doing well in school right after high school and finishing school before having a family will make life easier in the long run.

Rachael

With knowing what I know now about college life and the whole experience, I would have changed just a few things through my transition from high school to college. First and foremost, when having made the decision of what to major in, become serious about your interest. Although being serious, make sure to have fun as well. Getting involved in anything that sparks your interest will allow you to learn and enhance your knowledge while having fun. Also, getting to know your classmates and professors will do so much for your major. By allowing your professor to know your name and how interested you are in the subject allows for future job opportunities and references. Your classmates are also there to help make your experience a good one. Each student is there for the same reason and once you realize that, it opens up so many doors for you later. Getting involved also gives you a chance to have new relationships with people of the same interest which can lead to a great and successful college experience.

Jessica

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to establish better study habits. I would also tell myself to do my homework on time and stop slacking. I would say that I needed to go home every so often, ok maybe every weekend, just to say hi to my family and let them know that I love them. I would say to be more outgoing and try to make more than a few friends, and try to forge some lasting friendships and maybe go out with a guy or two. I would say that the restaurants on campus are awesome and not to be scared of trying new things. But above all else I would say to stay in touch with those you love the most because friends are fleeting but family is forever.

Alicia

Take advantage of college services and inventories that identify academic and career paths. Get experience in the field you think you want to study. Take as many different classes as you can, be fair to yourself and the opportunities before you. Never underestimate yourself, keep reminding yourself that more education awaits you (as I've learned in the present pursuit of my Master's degree). Take advantage of any opportunity that interests you, this is the way to explore what you really want to do with your life.

Staci

If I was allowed to give adivce to my high school self I would warn her about the difficulty of the transition. I would tell her that the classes are way harder in college and although you have done well in high school doesn't mean you'll get straight A's right out of the gate. I would also suggest jumping into the University first instead of community college because the transition is even harder after two years at community college. I would let her know that the studying techniques would have to be greatly improved in order to survive. College life in general is amazing and she should be prepared to face many challenges and great times with people from across the country. I would sum it up by telling her to be prepared for the time of her young adult life.

Jessica

I would tell myself to get involved in activities and not to be afraid to make friends. I also would tell myself to listen to me because I know what I want to do and not let anyone tell me something different. I would tell myself that college is the best time of your life and to make the most of it and not waste time. I also would tell myself to go into college without a boyfriend this way there is nothing standing in the way of making friends and expierencing the full college experience. The last thing I would tell myself is to not be afraid to make friends and become involved. Enjoy life this time in life only comes around once.

Laura

To say the least, i was not very motivated as a high school senior. College did not seem like a first priority because i figured i would just get in no matter what. I noticed a lot of people my age realizing things i didn't (i.e. scholarship applications and SAT practice was important). This was not engrained in me as it was with my fellow classmates. I also didn't know what i wanted to do and that wasn't stressed by career councilors either. I guess i wish i could let myself know about the assuredness i have now in my career path since i didn't have a clue as a senior.

Davina

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would encourage myself to get a high GPA so that I could get a full scholarship to attend a university. I come from a low income family of six children, so getting a full scholarship would have been a huge blessing; I have had to work full time and attend school since the age of sixteen. I never fully grasped the concept of how expensive attending a University is. I attended a community college for five years prior to attending the University of Arizona because I could only handle two classes at a time due to my work schedule; I also discovered that you can be a part time student and receive grants at community college but you must be a full time student at a university to even be considered. To this day I am working full time and I am a full time student. I have always been an ambitious person and I am glad that I never quit, but I can't help but wonder if life would be less difficult if I would have focused more on my GPA.

Yong

If I can go back to high school senior and tell helpful advices to myself to have a smooth transition from high school to college, I would keep only two things in my mind, confidence and search. I, indeed, had a hard time transitioning from high school to college. The main cause for this is that study method would be different and the materials are enormous for one exam in college. In addition, the new environment will make you nervous and take some time to get used to the new habitat. The first I would do to have a successful college life is to have a confidence in my mindset, no matter what. I sometimes lose confidence when I did horrible on the exams even though I felt myself that I prepared hard. However, humans are not perfect. This is when I need to search and look back what I did wrong and try to adjust my study method. I want to emphasize the fact that if I can maintain a positive mindset with confidence that I can do better for anything while searching for the solution that works for me, then I adopt that and use it to improve.

yixuan

Study more

Nitsan

Going back in time, I would advise myself on a variety of factors regarding college life. First, I would discuss with myself whether the school that I am picking is the right one for me, and whether or not I'm selecting it based on the right reasons. Further, I would inform myself that the transition between high school and college is substantial; that moving away from home and into an unfamiliar world can at times be rattling. However, I would also assure myself that such an upheaval is good. It is a remarkable growing and learning experience. One learns how to deal with new people and new situations. In addition, I would mention that such new scenarios would also teach me a great deal about myself as a person, and would prepare me for future events that life presents. In conclusion, I would whole-heartedly support the idea of me attending a university and I would motivate myself to succeed even further.

Andrew

Be more outgoing and get to know people more. Also be yourself, you want people to like you for the real you.

Kevin

Study what is quantitative and difficult

Ade

I would tell myself to take more college classes earlier and save money

Erika

If I could go back in time I would advise myself to take more advange of the scholarships that were avalible. I deeply regret not taking the oprotunity to apply for more scholarships. I would also have made it a point to apply for on campus living. I feel like I missed out on so much socially because I did not live on campus.

Dominic

If I had the ability to talk to myself in the past, I would have quite a few important things to say. First off, you should go to the University of Arizona. Watch your money, and don't waste any on the meal plan. Go to the grocery store instead - it's a lot cheaper. Drop computer science, it's not your thing. Go with business and psychology - that will get you much farther. Joining a fraternity is so worth it for community service and extracurricular activities. I would give myself advise on a few areas such as time-management, social/dating skills, and study techniques to myself in order to help live college life more effectively. As a farewell, I would warn myself about some bad life events to avoid, and wish me the best of luck in college.

Angela

If I had an opportunity to talk to myself as a high school senior I would firstly tell my past self that college is nothing like high school and be prepared to have to work 100 times harder than I'd ever had to work before. As for making the adjustment, I would merely tell myself to just hang in there and in about two weeks you will meet an incredible group of people that will be your friends forever.

Sarah

One and a half years have passed since you graduated from high school. Since then, you have sailed across an ocean , to over seven countries, and evolved into a stronger woman. You can weather 40 foot seas with composure, but when you attend your first semester of college, you let your financial struggles defeat you, and cause you to withdraw. In life, we all face a countless series of roadblocks. But we choose which ones to conquer, and we must never create our own limitations. Find opportunity in every challenge you face: learn, grow, and overcome. Sometimes, you'll need to help yourself. Other times, there are people waiting in the wings to guide you through this journey: do not be afraid to accept what they have to offer. Knowing how to graciously embrace help can be just as vital as standing on your own strong legs. I have experienced more of life now, so I want you to know, you suffer only as much as you allow yourself; you grow only as much as you desire. Do not allow fear to lead you, but a clear conscience and a strong frame of mind.

Sabrina

I would try to be as involved as I could be by joining clubs, doing different electives like yearbook and photography. Even sports are a great way to be involved. Ultimately, I feel that being involved in highschool helps you transition into college easier because yes, focusing on academics is important but social skills will take you all the way to the job you are applying for. Physical health and mental health are also very important and sports help with that also. Making sure you keep you grade up is another piece of advise I would give myself so I could have had more scholarships and not be in debt because of school now. Seeking out all resouces to pay for school is worth it because after you are done, it is a very huge burden to continue to pay. It would be nice to have no debt out of school.

Sarah

The most important part about college is not always the most obvious. One might think that it is academics but truthfully it is about your community. Anyone can focus on academics and suceed. But why do that and stay secluded? Being alone is not what makes college "the best years of your life." Instead, focus on finding a school that is known for having many different clubs that interest you, and then follow through with becoming involved. The people that you meet in college have the potential to be life long friends but only if you allow them to be. Getting involved in a club and making new friends is vital, so be patient and don't go home every weekend. Give your school a try and who knows who you will meet. P.S. Try not to take any 8 am courses, they are brutal in the winter.

Elisabeth

The most important and relevant advice I could give myself when I was a high school senior would be to attend a university where my boyfriend would not be attending, and live in the dormitory. Since I shared an off-campus apartment with my then boyfriend and one of his friends, and they were both attending school only part-time, the lifestyle they developed made it very difficult for me to get enough sleep and focus on my studies. I think that going away for your first year of school is best accomplished if you live on-campus for at least the first year, until you have fully transitioned to the full-time university student lifestyle in a new city or town. Living on-campus makes it easier to meet other full-time, academic-minded students who are interested in studying outside of class. If I would have decided to attend the university in my home-town, an excellent situation would have been to live with and assist my grandparents while going to school. Later, I did live with and care for my grandmother while completing my bachelor's degree, and the situation worked out wonderfully for both of us.

Holly

I would tell myself that the decisions made in college really do affect your future and where you are going to end up life. I would also tell myself that not everything is going to make sense or be esay but it is best to never settle and always to strive for the best. I would also encourage myself to make myself interact with the professors more and to get more involved with Campus life.

Victoria

As an incoming freshman, I did not expect that college would demand so much of a person. As my father told me when I received my first C my first semester at the UA, "It has to hurt to succeed." That phrase has been echoing in my mind ever since then. And that is the phrase I would tell myself 3 years ago when I graduated from high school. The freedom you receive when entering this real-world environment is addicting and blinding. Some do not know where the limit is to their newfound fun that comes with that freedom from becoming an adult attending college. I had to learn it the hard way. And as crazy as it may seem, I would not take any moment back. For, if I had not learned my lesson early on in my college career, I do not know where I would be now. Definitely have fun, make friends, go out, have the college experience. But it takes a true succesful and mature person to draw the line and realize, your education is what is ultimately important. College wakes you up to the reality that YOU are now in control of your future.

Elizabeth

please be more consious of your grades and how hard you work in school, all the classes you take now can be made to avoid extra classes in community college.

Francisco

You have to be happy where you are; with everything. With the academics, with the social life, with the environment. You need to go to the schools and see what it looks like and how you feel there. And then after you need to imagine yourself going to school there and see if you like what your imagining. You have to be happy, you cannot simply choose a school because your parents tell you to or because you have friends that go there. This is your future, make the right decision.

Christina

You really have to study in your high school. If you learned from your high school, you will not waste your time to take same class agin in your freshman year. Also, Please! apply many scholarships! Rest of the tuition will be your money, and you can buy text books. So, you do not have to waste your money for $100 text books!

Samantha

Looking back to myself as a high school senior, I think my main piece of advice is that college will be what you make it. Throughout the entire aplication process its hard not to take every detail into consideration, but in reality it all boils down to your perception of your own life. I know that wherever I would have decided to go I would have been happy, but I chose to make the U of A my university. I combination of wanting to get out, wanting to start fresh, and wanting a change in scenery was what lead me here, but at this point I dont think I would have it any other way.! College at first may not have lived up to whatever expectations I had, but I genuinely wanted to make it a good experience. And I found ways to do it. Dont be afraid to make new friends! Put yourself out there, and lastly, once you are somewhat comfortable, explore your new area. Finding a niche somewhere outside of campus, and in the commuunity can make all the difference! You just have to go look for it!