University of Arizona Top Questions

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

Eric

The best college is the college that makes you feel the most comfortable. Whether that be financially, socially, or academically, being comfortable is the first step to accepting your school as a second home. Choosing your school has to be your choice. Doing your research, asking questions, and speaking to people who attend the institution are the best ways to fully gain information about the way a college functions. A high school teacher once told me, "Colleges are businesses, they're out to make money". Brochures and pamphlets, web pages, and books are all about making the college appealing, so first hand research is a must when it comes to picking the right school for you. In order to make your college experience the best one, you have to step outside of your comfort zone, try things you may have never tried before like joining a club or eating a new type of food. These types of things open the door to meeting new people and understanding new ideas and concepts in life. College is where you transition from young adult to a working citizen in America, so engage in all you can to become a better person.

Andrew

Shop around and visit the prospective campuses to get a good feel for how your life will be for the next four years. And once there, don't just sit in your room all day; get out and mingle if you want to get the most out of the college life. Yeah, you're there to study and such, but college is also a big opprotunity to meet new people. If you can't decide on a major just yet, there's no rush. Experiment and find an area in which you feel comfortable.

Nicole

Find what you want to do and stick with it! Don't let anyone tell you what you can do or what you're not capable of--you are in control of your own destiny. Explore your options and don't be afraid to dream big. It's better to try and fail than live with the regret of having never reached for the stars. When selecting a college, make sure it has the program of study, environment, and living accomodations that best suit your tastes. If you settle for a school you don't really care for, you won't be completely satisfied. Money shouldn't be an issue because it can always be made up later. Go for what you desire, and just have fun with it.

Carolina

I would advise everyone to apply to every school possible. It doensn't matter the income, there will always be help out there. I also recommend that you go visit the school before the first days of classes. Tardiness is not acceptable for most professors.

David

The most important thing in finding the college that is right for you or your student is to actually be there and learning what that college is all about. There is only so much that a tour of the university will do for you. To truley find out what a college is like I honestly think that you need to spend some time there as a student. Now this doesn't mean attend every college on your wish list. But compile a list of your top schools and pick your favorite from your inital impression and go there. If you don't like it after a semester don't think that it's too late to transfer or apply to another school. In life its never too late to change. This is all the more true in college because there will be no other time in your life when you will be more flexible then in college. To get the most out of your college experiance my advice is to just be open. Try new things, meet new people, but always remember who you are so you don't lose yourself in all the newness around you.

Allison

Be open and try new things. Get involved quickly and in a lot. Take advantage of all the opportunities that college gives you.

Paul

When making the intimidating and possibly life altering decision of which college to attend, one should make this choice with three separate ideas in mind. The first of these and arguably most crucial is where one will be able to best reach his or her goals. This can be judged off of the specific major one has chosen and how the college?s program is structured and matches the students learning style. The overall academic community can affect this as well. The next idea to keep in mind is the distance from family and friends. Some students will find the urge to gain separation and find independence, well others seek the comfort or necessity to be close to their family and loved ones. The final idea that parents and students alike should keep in mind during the college search is the location of the college. A rewarding college experience is often linked to the campus? community and area, and a campus visit definitely should be made before making a final decision. With these ideas in mind, a student should find themselves a college where they can happily grow both academically and as a well-rounded individual.

Jawad

Do not just think about what college your friend will be going to. Just focus on your major and what is affordable considering your expenses. You can always make new friends, but money is harder to come by.

Kathryn

I would say that the most important thing when looking for the right college is knowing what area of study you want to get into. That way, colleges with emphasis on that specific area with have better programs to prepare you for your career choice. Another important factor is location. I personally would overall feel better in an area that has more things to do around the city and also possesses decent weather. This factor will make you feel more comfortable in your surroundings and allow you to get a chance to meet new people through different activities.

Allison

Go with your gut feeling and try and visit all of the schools you are looking at.

Joni

Finding the right college is extrememly difficult. Yet, following these simple rules from some one with experience can make it alot easier. First, always remember to listen to each other. Parents, you want you kid close to home; and students, most of you can't wait to get away. Then, take into consideration a compromise between money available, and realistic experiences. Students, college is expesive, but going to certain schools will cost even more. As long as you're wise about your moves, you can still get a good education at a non-top, non-big name school. The dreams of going away and doing amazing things can be fullfilled at a more afforadable school; it's all about your attitude and determination. And remember, always give new situations time. It's harder to stick with something difficult, but it will be a more rewarding and honest turn out. Later on, you can always transfer. Stay positive, and good luck!

Megan

I think it is very important to talk to current students at the school you are planning to attend. You get insight that you won't get from advisors or professors. The students get the true college experience, so talking to them will give you a great look into what your future college experience will be like.

Halil

Choosing the right college for you is difficult. It took me over five months to decide! Overall, you just have to look at all the aspects. Cost, the student body, the campus are all things you need to look at before making your final decision before choosing the school that's right for you.

Hannah

College is about so many things its often hard to distinguish between what we need to do and what we want to do. As a new freshman i know it can be tempting to just have fun, but academics are really important too. Some people make up for this by focusing solely on academics and ignoring the equally important hands on internships and work study programs. The whole experiance of college, from classes, to parties, to group work, and living on your own, serves to build you up and make you strong, confident, and ready to face the adult business world with a good education to back you, friends to support you, and teachers and alumni to help guide you. Its so important to throw yourself into your college experience, academically, emotionally, and mentally because four years sounds like an eternity, but it will go by much quicker than highschool and have a much deeper impact on your life. The friends you make in college will be those whose kids grow up next to yours, they will be next to you at work, and they will take care of you when you are sick. College is more than that.

Antonio

After having spent several years at college, I feel that I have learned alot about what helps me learn here, and it is the same thing that motivates me to have a good time. The one thing that has helped me the most is just feeling comfortable with where I am. It is a good thing to push the boundaries of where you are comfortable, however it is only when you are comfortable with asking questions and recieving answers that you will really learn. So do not choose your school based on the prestigious name, or the interesting architecture, or star football team, but instead based on how easily you can talk to someone and learn something new. As a freshman, I was rather unsure of everything around me in this new place called college. Now, having finished my sophomore year, I am comfortable enough to talk to older students, teachers, whoever, and ask the simplest, and the most difficult questions. Whether I am asking how to analyze and engine in an engineering class, or asking a beautiful girl for a date, it is the confidence in asking questions that has allowed me to learn here, and enjoy doing it.

Leah

I would say definitely visit the college you are interested. Get involved in Greek life and other activities to meet various people. Also don't go out on nights when you have a lot of work due the next day, it will only hurt you in the end. Unfortunately, I found that out the hard way. Try activities you wouldn't normally try but have always had an interest in.

Elizabeth

I have heard that you should go to college where you would normally cannot afford to live, such as tropic places or bustling cities. This is true for an adventurous spirit, but I am content being close to home and not having to take out a loan. My advice for most people is to give the colleges close by another look. You do not need to travel across country to find a "good college" because there are people that are already traveling to attend colleges in your state! There are places that are right under your nose that are able to meet your needs and then some! In order to make the most of the college experience students must learn to balence work and play. In the end, the nerds will only remember nights of slopering over their textbook when they fell alseep studying, and party people will only remember nights of slopering on other people! The key is balence, that way you finish with a strong degree and strong friendships. College is the most fun in your life, so be sure you make memories you are proud about and some memories to chuckle to!

John

Finding the perfect college can be like searching for a needle among other needles in a haystack: it may exist, but even if it does, it's hidden amidst a sea of alternate suitors. Pardon the clich?, but this is the reality of finding the "perfect" college. That doesn't mean that you can't find that "perfect" college or even one that suits your requirements and style. Here are three tidbits of advice I can impart to the prospective college freshman to assist in finding the best higher-education venue possible: - Look for an institution that has a strong program in the field you wish to pursue. If you're accepted to a college like this, your education will be enriched by some of the finest scholars in that area of academia. - Whether you like it or not, weather is an aspect that could make or break your college education. Be realistic: if you've grown up in a predominantly sunny and warm place, it may be extremely tough to adjust to a rainy/snowy and cold climate. - Visit the college!!! The best way to extract the atmosphere and feel of a campus is to just go there!

Blake

Finding the right college depends on what you can afford and what you want to study. I would recomend that the cheapest option is found until a course of study is selected and the approriate school is chosen and the student is transfered.

Audrey

The advice I give to parents and students is to check all of your options before making any quick decisions. The most important aspect is also for parents to understand that their child is going to school for something they are passionate about so it is important to find a college that is going to match well with that. Also, choosing an in-state school is not always that best option. In my case I chose the in-state school because it was affordable and just easier to apply to. However, I am now going to be a junior and am looking to transfer to another university because I am unhappy in my current program. When selecting a college it is important to do a campus visit and try taking a summer class to see if you enjoy your time there. Never be afraid to try an out of state school because in the long run it could end up being a better match for you and potentially provide you with a larger opportunity base.

Shilo

My main advice to up and coming college freshman is to become involved in the university's activities and programs. There is so many things available to a student while he/she is at college; take advantage of it! One should not limit him/herself to any one aspect of a college education. It a chance to discover what he/she really believes and wants to commit his/her life towards doing in addition to making life long friends. I especially encourage students to volunteer in the local community. Service is a great leadership oppurtunity. The unverisity has many resources available to students it just takes a creative idea and determination to make it a reality. Don't let life pass by, decide in college to make a difference, and it will happen!

Sadie

The advice I would give to students is to go with your gut feeling when trying to decide on a school. If you get that feeling of excitement or even a sense of clarity while you are at a particular school then I say go for it. If you feel like the school's environment is going to be condusive to how you learn and you are comfortable with the surroundings then it is most likely going to be a great school for you. I think it is very difficult to know exactly what you want right out of high school so this can make it difficult to decide on a school, but if you can ask yourself what is most important to you, it will often lead you in the right direction. Once you get to college I think the most important thing you can do for yourself is to get involved. There are so many opportunites outside of the classroom that will enrich your college experience. Joining clubs and organizations, playing sports, or even having a job on campus can lead you in new directions and teach you a lot about yourself along the way.

Jennifer

picking a college is extremely hard on a high school student because there are so many choices out there and things to think about. especially if one doesnt have the luxery of visiting the school prior to attendance or getting a feel for what the place really is like. outside pressures from family or school adminisration are also factors that could influence the school you go to. in my case, i was pressured to go to a school i was admitted into soley for the purpose of it being close to home. my school of choice was across the country, and even with being admitted, i listened to my family and went with their opinions rather than my own. it has led me to beleive that in attending the closer school, i was as miserable as i thought i would become and eventually transferred. my advice is to follow your heart and fully investigate the schools you are considering. its alot of time and money you are investing in, not to mention your future.

Lauren

As important as it is to find a college where you feel you fit in, it is equally important to find a place that is financially realistic to you and your family. Unfortunately, I went to a college that I felt was right in my heart, but was not a smart choice for financial reasons. It is crucial to pay close attention to realistic tuition costs because having a financial strain can negatively affect the college experience. I am constantly worried about finances and realize I will have to transfer if I cannot find a solution quickly. Parents should be equally aware of this financial burden. Loans are not as easily accessed as it may seem. Do not let the love for your child overshadow what is financially feasible. Sometimes tough love is the hardest, yet most important thing in life. A student will be able to reap the most benefits at a school they can afford.

Livier

Finding the right college is making sure you feel at home. You need to pick a place where you feel the most comfortable because that will be the place you'll do the best in. However you need to get out of your comfort zone in order to mature and reallly see what you do or don't like.

Jade

Choose what is most comfortable for the student. Instead of picking a popular school or friends attending. Look for a campus that is not so spread out. Make sure professors are acclaimed and class size is appropriate. Choose one with lots of opportunities and activites.

Guillermo

The one thing that I would say to parents when finding the right college for their son/daughter, is find the place that will use all their interests in life to their full potential. Find that the school that you know that your son/daughter will find to be comfortable for them to study in and become an active member inside the college society.

Jennifer

I would tell parents to let their students choose whatever college they want. I would tell students to figure out what majors are available at your college to figure out what you want to do, so you dont waste time taking classes you don't need.

Eric

The best advice I have is to research as many locations as possible in person. You will get the best feel for a campus and community through an in person visit. Personally, I found my school from the moment I walked on campus. While it is cliche, I felt an overwhelming sense of belonging from the first step I took. I also couldn't turn down the scenery. Fitting in with the school is also important, so you must evaluate your personality and likes/dislikes. I am an outgoing person and thus a large campus did not bother me. The final selling point is the availability of programs and activities. Knowing what you want to do with your life is important, but if you are unsure then having options is extremely helpful. And fitting in is easy on a campus that offers multiple clubs and extracurriculars. Good Luck!

maryia

Follow your heart. But the most important is to do a good research on the college you want to go to. First, you should consider the instate Universities, instead of going for the ones that are out of state. By choosing instate school, you can save a lot of money and stay out of debt. It is important to choose the school that is well established and has been there for decades. Also, the location of the school is very important, you do not want it to be in the middle of nowhere and you want to have an exciting social and cultural experiences while you are getting your degree.

Angelica

Finding the right college may be a hard thing for most people but some advice that I can give others is: do your research. Find out as many things as you can of the school you are looking into. Talk to people that already attend the school and ask questions of everything you can think of such as the counseling services, the classroom environment, and the activities that students engage on for fun. I think that in order to make the most of the college experience you must find friends who are similar to you. If your friends have similar goals to yours then you can help one another to accomplish those goals. Good friends will be there to have fun with you and to pick you up when you are down. With friends by your side you will be able to graduate, have fun and make the most of the college experience.

Carlos

First, I would tell them to make a tour through the campus and learn more about its spirit and students' motivation and leadership. After that, we would review different aspects that help students build to success and other that are not very significantly. I would also inform about off-campus activities and environment because plays a very important role on social activities and environmental research. Their interests are obviously something to notice and making the right decision is very important. A higher motivating campus with emphasis on academic achievment is very important on deciding.

Ryan

I recieved a scholarship for a university back home and decided to go there because they gave me the most money out of any school i applied to. After staying there for one year I realized that I did not enjoy being there and I had made that wrong decision. A word of advice that I would give to students choosing a college is to choose the school that they feel that would suit them best. Students should not choose schools for what their friends say, where their parents went, or even money. The college years are a time for students to create the person they wil be for the rest of their lives, so be the person that you want to be and do not let anyone else tell you oherwise.

Brittany

I would brainstorm what majors you are interested in and look for a school that is well known for those areas of interest. That way, if you end up switching your mind and changing majors, then you are at a university that has some other high quality departments. I would also pay attention to the college surroundings and the city it is located in because it is important to enjoy your time at college in an environment that suits you. Furthermore, I would advise you to think about what you personally value. If having small class sizes is important to you, then make that a priority in your search for the right school for you. Likewise, if a certain sport such as gymnastics is something you do not want to give up while in college, then look for a school that is known for its gymnastics program. This way you can continue to follow your dreams and passions. Finally, if possible visit the colleges you are considering. I have heard so many people say that once they were on the campus they knew that was where they wanted to attend. Picking a college is simply what is right for you.

Erin

The best advice I can give in choosing the right college is to gather all the facts and then follow your heart. Determine what is it you?re looking for from your college experience, whether it be strong academics, new friendships, or certain types of opportunities. Once you understand what matters the most to you, you can then figure out which of your college options will be the best match. Don?t be afraid to ask questions or stand up to people who don?t agree with you; your choice of college will be one of the most important decisions in your life, so it?s essential that the choice feel like the right one. Once you arrive at your perfect college, get involved! Join clubs, organizations, religious groups, and volunteer opportunities that interest you. This is a great way to meet people, find your place in the often large and overwhelming college environment, and get involved in different forms of community service. Remember that college is an opportunity for growth, in every area of your life ? go in open-minded and you will take so much away from your experience.

Nichele

Make sure its a campus that fits you. When you visit for the first time, it should feel like home.

Steven

Check out the school before you choose to apply there! Also, check out the surrounding areas outside of the university, as it can change your opinion entirely. Do not be afraid to ask questions and check everything!

Steve

The advice I would give to the parents and students is very simple, but it takes a strong will and effort. To the parents: Always support your children, no matter what; don't discourage them from anything they want to do in their life. Give them a hand and always let them know "Do your best" and acknowledge it. For the students: focus, be committed; need to have a strong dedication and reason why you want to be studying at the university; if you say you're going to college for the "money" then you should rethink about it, and take some time for yourself to think what you really want in life.

Brenna

Pick a college that you can see yourself staying at for 4 years and one that you really would get involved in. Picking one with a nice campus is just as important as what major to pick. If you hate the place your staying or feel like you don't belong you won't want to stay no matter how amazing the major is.

Samantha

When finding the right college try and spend a few weekends there before hand to test out the campus feel. When making the most of your college experience branch out to people outside of your comfort level. The more involved you get in your college the more you'll get out of it.

erynn

Look for a college that specializes in your area of interest. You want to get started in the best of the best of programs so that you can properly be prepared for your future (whether it be the work world or futher college). To make the most out of college you've got to get out of your comfort zone. Be friendly. Make new friends and talk to people on the first day of classes. Get involved in the school's activities. Attend all the football games. Go out for the tailgates. College is the best time of your life so don't just let four years pass you by. Also know that you've got to focus on your studies. Every test and quiz counts. A's are easy to get if you really apply yourself.

Teresa

Look for a place that reminds you of home.

Joel

I would them that the best college is probably about the people. Make sure that you try to know the people there, the culture

Agendia

let your kids choose where they want to go, because for the next four years it is going to be their home

Daniel

Do lots of research first and make sure that you can afford wherever you are going before you go.

Elizabeth

Think about all aspects of the school before you decide. Most likely, you will be living on campus, or at least somewhere nearby, and you'll have to look at it every day. Pick a school for it's academic reputation and how you feel on campus. Also, try walking around campus for a while. Ask people questions and see how the people are around campus. Also, I seriously recommend living on campus at least for your first year. It's a great way to meet new people around campus and get involved. You would have to try to not get involved when living in a dorm or residence hall.

stefany

Most people find themselves in college so visit a few different ones before you pick the right one for you. You never know if you will like it or not if you don't shop around

Connie

Getting involved early to find what you like and stick with it or change it to something you can stick to... Extracurriculars help figure out what you're interested and provide you opportunies to get involved and know more people. Networking is really important. Being not shy is really important... So find a school you think offers the best organizations to interests you. All schools have different organizations... All school generally have the same types of class.. So the extracurriculars are really important. A cheaper school is okay for undergraduate... keep yourself off loans for now. Save loans for graduate studies or whatever type of study for the future... Find a school that also offers a lot of scholarships.

Denise

When trying to find the right college you simply have to consider the things that matter most to you: academics, campus size, community groups, location, etc. You shouldn't have to bend over backwards trying to impress your school because when it comes down to it, they simply are looking at YOU. College life is so much more than just taking classes. College is a place where you meet new people, go new places, try new things, challenge what you know, stand firm in what you believe in and truly mature into the person that you will become. Don't take academics too seriously because when all you do is study, you won't have time to figure out who you are--and for me, that is the best part.

Alissa

When looking for the "right" college for you, I think it is important to figure out what you want first. What kind of environment do you want to live in? How much are you willing to spend on tuition? Do you want to live on campus? What is your major? Once you figure all these things out then it is important to research them, and find the college that best fits what you are looking for. Afterwards, once accepted and starting up, you need to go to college with a positive attitude, and the mindset that you're going to do well. Sure, it may be one thing if you're having fun and living in the moment by partying a lot and going out, but you need to prioritize, because in the end I'm sure your college experience would be better if you weren't stressed out about your grades and whether or not you're going to pass a class. Also, be different. Think outside the box. Do things you haven't done before. Its a time for new experiences, and growing up. What you learn in college will endure the rest of your life.