University of Arizona Top Questions

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

Erin

The best advice I will give to students choosing their college is to visit the campus and do your research. The more you know about the campus, the more you will feel at home. Do not just take the standard campus tour; instead make your own adventure around campus and explore. Also, once you are at college, be open to everybody and everything. Be yourself because if someone does not like it, you never have to see them again! The greatest thing I proved to myself was that once my first year was over, I realized that I did not fail. I proved I was responsible with my time, my studies, and my new friends. New students are on their own for the first time and its scary to realize all these daily decisions are your own and that your life is completely your responsibility. So don't be scared and instead go out there and take the leap knowing that no matter how bad it may get, the experience will be unforgettable and you will end up a smarter and better person.

Evony

In order to find the right college and make the most of the college experience I would say it is most important and definitely necessary to look at the quality of education a student would recieve at the school. It is important to research the accreditation of the institution and other technicalities such as financial aid availability, class availability, parking permits and the reputation of the professors who teach there. It is important to look for a good advisory staff, as those individuals are the ones that will be guiding students throughout their college careers and the living environment is important as well-- highlighting features such as the safety of a campus, and the situations in dormrooms. It is also important to make sure there are many ways students can get involved, things such as clubs, teams, on campus jobs and intership opportunities can help students meet others and make new friends, which is something that will greatly enhance the college experience.

Elizabeth

When looking for the right college it is important to think of what you can handle. Some students are capable of being far away from home while others are not. When I chose the school I go to, I chose a school that was about 2 hours away from home. That way I had my independence but was still close to family. Also, can you handle rigorus academics or do you need a school that has a social life too? You will be miserable if you attend a school that does not offer any activities that you enjoy and overloads you with work. On the other hand, you want to consider how the name of your college will look on a resume. Choose a school that you can be proud of and say "Yes, I went there!" In terms of making the most of college, have fun and work hard. There is a delicate balance between the two, but when achieved you can get the most out of your experience. Don't forget, you do attend college to learn, so don't waste your time or money by not learning anything at all.

Barbara

I believe the most important thing for parents and students to consider when making a decision about college attendence if whether the student is really prepared to make the committment to accept the challenge of further education straight out of high school. Often, students who take a couple of years to work and experience life will appreciate the opportunity offered by higher education more than those attending because it is what their friends are doing or what their parents want them to do.

Michael

As long as people are not afraid to push themselves and discover what they are capable of, there is a college out there for everyone no matter what age. College teaches not only integrity and independence, but also whole new experiences in maturity and professionalism. This isn't a popularity contest and nobody cares about who you are and what you've done. What matters is what you are about to accomplish in your next 4+ years. There is no better way in building character and meeting lifelong friends than in college. Yes, for parents and students, education does come with a price. But it is a price that is very worth investing into for its rewards and exeprience are immeasurable in the end. Eveyrone's college experience is different, but I have yet to meet a single person who did not regret going to college ,nor the experiences they had during college. My best tip to students out there is to never be afraid to try and push for things you never have had before. Never give up and keep only one goal in mind; to come out a professional, and a better person.

Alease

Just go somewhere where you or your child would feel they would be able to learn the most from, and have the best time. I chose U of A because it is 2 hours away from my hometown, so I can still go visit my family often. I have many friends that go here also, and they help me with my studies, and honestly, I love it here!

Erin

The right college is a hard thing to find considering there are more than 1 right colleges for some people while there may not be for others. The right college is all about what satifys your personal goals and needs. An enviornment where you feel comfortable and confident in yourself. The school should fit your criteria, not you fitting their criteria. You only live once and everyone should make the most of their college experience. I have an outlook on life of having no regrets, there is no harm in trying as many things as you can at least once. Fortunately, I am lucky enough that my parents are able to put me through the college of my dreams, but as apart of growing up one must realize that they can't depend on their parents forever. Paying for your own college experience is a learning experience and you should try to get a taste of the real world. Apply for as many activities and groups as you can. College is meant to help you grow and develop a strong base for the rest of your life.

Astin

I would encourage parents and/or students to research a variety of institutions, even those that may seem to competitive or expensive to attend. Going to the college that is a best fit, will undoubtedly be reflected in the grades earned in courses, the quality of a career after graduation, and the happiness the student will receive from this experience. Sacrafice now will lead to returns in the future, nothing worth it is ever easy.

Itzel

I would tell parents and or students to take into consideration the size of the school, the proximity to home, and affordability. To make the most out of your college experience you need to really get involved. It's not all about school work. Getting into activities and sports is also part of the whole experience!

Meghann

Find someplace that you know you will fit into. Make sure its has the academic options you are looking for, as well as the social life you desire. Don't choose a school purely on cost or where your friends go. This is your life, and you should get as much out of it as you can! College is supposed to fun, rewarding, and challenging, so enjoy it! It is important to get involved in clubs and sporting events!! You will become so filled with pride, and enjoy it even more!

Nicole

Be open-minded about new and unfamiliar experiences because your life experiences shape who you will become. Get to know your professors - they are your best resource toward an A+. Learn a few of your favorite recipes from your parents for those days when McDonalds just doesn't cut it anymore. "Please" and "Thank You" always get you further in life. And most importantly, don't forget to breathe!

Sylvia

To find the right college, I would advice parents and students to visit the campus on different days and ask questions about the campus.

Alexa

The advice that everyone seems to give high school students applying to colleges is to find the school that ?fits them best.? If a student is environmentally conscious, pick a school with an eco-friendly campus; if she loves chemistry, pick a school with a superior medical program. While this may be good advice, I believe one can make any college ?fit? her. Choosing a college with a community who has similar academic and social interests does not always guarantee a great experience. I went to a small, private college preparatory high school, so I was nervous to attend a large Pac-10 state school like the University of Arizona. However, once I was here I barely noticed UA?s size. I immediately became involved in extra-curricular activities, clubs, intramural sports, dorm-life, and academics. Suddenly I was surrounded by familiar faces, things that interested me, and reflected my personality. The enormous U of A soon became small, personable, and mine. The college experience you have is entirely up to you. Make it what you want it to be, on any type of campus, and you will undoubtedly have the four most successful and enjoyable years of your life.

Vicky

For students, I would recommend them to pick a school that is reasonably financially affordable for them, and to choose a school with lots of available career choices since it is relatively common to switch majors mid-college career. I would encourage students to get to know their peers from student housing, classes and clubs/organizations for a smooth transition to the college social life. I would tell students that it is very common to "burn out" or become overwhelemed during their first one or two years, and that they should seek out their school's resources to help them manage their time efficiently. And most of all, I would be sure to tell them to enjoy themselves and be sure to concentrate on schoolwork! And of course, I would tell them to always make sure their grades are their top priority.

Jarrett

Don't get too hung up about finding the "right" college and don't be disappointed if you decide to stay in your hometown to go to school. I say this because college is what you make of it. Attending any school can be a great or a miserable experience but it is up to you. You can spend it studying, exploring, bonding, learning, creating, focusing, experimenting, or partying if you choose. And if you don't get your top choice, don't worry, because it is not the name of the school on your resume that matters most; rather, it is the strength and content of your character, your skills and abilities, your passion and determination that counts. The fact that you will have a college degree already says so much, and nobody can ever take that away from you.

Shannon

Examine all options. Be true to yourself, remember your intererests, if you truely love what you want to do, you will enjoy your education, and your career. On a daily basis, I think to myself how lucky I am to be studying what I am. I love my school, and my future career. I can't wait to graduate and get to work! Now if I can only find a way to pay for it all...

Jenna

Visit the campus before you go. Also make sure that the future student does ample research on every aspect of their potential campus. College isn't just about affordability, you get what you pay for.

Anne

Find a school where you will feel comfortable. It is tough to stay focused and happy with school if you are unhappy outside of school. I lived close enough to family that I could take a break when I needed to. As much as college is about learning and preparing for a career, it is also about learning about yourself. The college experience will not be as great as it can be if you are not happy when you experience it. You should decide what factors would make you happiest while you live your college life, and make sure those factors play a role in the process of deciding which school to attend.

Shaun

Work hard and don't wait around to start working hard in class. Start off strong, if you get a good grade on your first test, you'll have momentum to carry you through the rest of the semester.

Christina

College is not just a place of learning, rather it is a place of personal development. You cannot pick your college based soley on one aspect, instead consider what your own personal strengths and weaknesses are and find a school that fits your academic, social and personal needs. You need to find a place where you can challenge yourself to step outside your comfort zone to excell in everything you try, if you do not then you will be hindering yourself from experiences that make life memorable. After attending my university for a little over a year, I have grown in unimaginable ways. College is place where you are forced to grow up, take on responsibilities with consequences, learn self control, and most important of all a place to learn how to time manage. In college you learn a lot in the classroom, but the best lessons I have gained through my own college experiences have been outside the classroom, in real life situations. The best recommendation I can give you, is to find a school that you feel comfortable at, yet will challenge you to grow academically, socially, and personally.

Christopher

I think everyone should think about what is important to them and what they really want to study. It does not make sense to force yourself into a situation that you really do not want to be in, in the first place. It is very valuable to look into different campuses and find the best one for you. Find a school that has a great program that you are interested. This will enable you to have the best college experience possible

gabriel

Chose a place that you feel comfortable at...

Jessica

The best advice I can give is to visit the campus while school is still in session. As well as, making sure that the distance from home will be convenient. Also, make sure that the university provides good knowledge and opportunities for your major.

Julie

Get as much financial aid or scholarships as possible so money is not a burden on your student. Encourage your student to look into many different possibilities of majors. To the students learn to have fun, but maintain your grades as well. College is going to be the highlight of your life.

Amanda

I believe that it is important to come into college with a college mind but it is just as important to have discipline. The courses that need to be taken care of first are the required courses for every program. I think taking these courses freshman year helps a student mature and be able to make larger decisions as in choosing a major or field of study.

Arielle

I would say not to worry about choosing a college because its an ivy or because of its reputation. There are brilliant people and professors where ever you go...and when it comes down to it, education is what you put into it. Choose a school because you see yourself being happy there. Don't worry about the pressure or your career, becuase, in the end, undergrad shouldn't be about the stress, but about growing up, and finding those things in education about which you are excited.

Ben

Pick a school that is challenging yet fun. Make sure it is within your financial means. Blah Blah Blah just BEAR DOWN and goto The University of Arizona and have the best time of your life!

Louis

First, I would suggest looking at universities close to home. Students, no matter how much you think you hate your parents during high school, being close to family and friends will be invaluable to your making a smooth transition. Check online?or with your high school advisor?for collages with reputations for being innovative and well established in your chosen area of study. Here is an excellent website from the University of Illinois for reviewing schools: hxxp://www.library.uiuc.edu/edx/rankings.htm. Secondly, contact a university advisor, preferably one in the field of your choice. Talk to them about involvement pertaining to your major, such as available undergraduate research, internships, and clubs. Being published as an undergrad researcher looks amazing on a graduate school application, internships can help secure a post-graduation job, and clubs give you the opportunity to meet and work with people with your interests. Finally, visit the school(s) that you are considering. Talk to students and faculty there to get a feel for campus life, resources, and a general campus vibe. It will be an awesome feeling when you discover the right campus for you!

Carina

I would go to as many events that promote the school and on campus visits so that you know you are choosing the right fit for you. It is an unforgettable 4 years that is worth the length of the decision making process.

Jamie

i think that the most important thing about finding the right college is to find somewhere that you are able to get involved. you have to be able to get away somehow. college is supposed to be a great time in your life. working hard academically is key, but making memories is also so important. find somewhere that enables you to achieve your specific career goals. is also something to take into consideration when finding the right school for you. understand that if the school has a great law program, it is going to be difficult for that same reason. it will be discouraging at times, and you will mess up, but having a support system in friends and family is a huge help to get through it and achieve your goals .

Adam

I strongly urge parents and students to choose a college that allows the student to be exposed to an infinite number of possibilities for becoming involved. Right out of high school, one may think they know what they want in life, but the best way to really know what kind of a person you want to be is to understand all of the possibilities life has to offer. The right college is the one that allows you to be who you want to be while simultaneously challenging you to be more than you ever thought was possible. The way to make the most of the college experience is to find what academic and social activities help you thrive and grow and change as a person. Whether through clubs, sports, job experiences, community involvement, or more subtle personal activity and growth, the only way to truly succeed in college, and in life, is to constantly challenge yourself through being active in your own life. To find the right college, look at the people, not the location or the facilities. If you surround yourself with people who are active and successful and happy, you will thrive off of their success and happiness.

Regina

Before rushing in picking colleges, slow down and review your critieria(s). Your crtierias may include, financial standing, college admittance eligibility, college lifestlye, and etc. In addition, even though some schools may have the best title for having (*blank*) major or being the best (*blank*) school, these schools have these titles due to the students. Theses students make the most out of their college experience by involving themselves in engaging activities that they find interesting. In short, find the right school that makes you feel like you want to make an impact and involve yourselves in activities that interest you.

Steven

I was very involved in my high school and I have become involved in many activities in college. There is no need to join the Greek system if that doesn't interest you. I didn't and have made many friends from the dorm and classes. I strongly recommend living in a dorm for at least one year, I lived in one for two years and had a great time. This is the time to explore your interests. I started college as an undecided and changed my major twice since then, but have now found a major that I love. When I do homework, time really flies by. I am just starting to talk with my teachers. I wish that I had the courage to do that as a freshman, but I didn't. Talking to them during their office hours really helps me understand the material more and helps them to know me. I also like the intellectual ideas they discuss with me. Sometimes the discussions can be very challenging. Aslo I have been attending plays and going to museums. I never thought that would interest me, but I went with some friends and it was actually pretty fun.

Kimberly

the most important thing for students is to go into their first year with an open mind and positive attitude. every new student will be going through the same experience and everyone will want to make new friends. remember that your roommate may not end up being your best friend but the girl down the hall could. You will most likely have a difficult time adjusting and will miss your friends from home but so will everyone else. It is important to get involved and keep focused. The friends you make at college are friends that you will end up spending all your time with, you will eat with them, study with them, go to games with, they will become your family. it is important to find a balance between school work and friends. friends are the most important part of your college experience because in ten years you will look back on the great experience you had with those friends.

Dustin

have fun. don't have any regrets. stay focused and use time management

Chelsea

My best advice about finding the right college is actually going to visit the school because you will know by walking around the campus if you can see yourself going there. I was born and raised in the bay area so I grew up thinking that I had to apply to and attend a University of California school. I got accepted to many great UC schools however, after visiting the school that I ultimately ended up at, I realized that while the other schools are wonderful schools, the one I chose was the best fit for me. It is important to consider your own values and goals and pick a school that not only allows you to continue to be yourself but also allows you to grow into the person you are going to become. As far as making the most ut of the college experience, be the person who not only recognizes opportunities, but the person who takes advantage of them. Recognize your own abilities and constantly push yourself because that is when you will truly find who you are. People do not hand you your destiny, you have to get out there and find it.

Alayne

Talk to people about their experiences in college, from applying all the way through graduation! The advice I sought from others helped me the most in the end. Also, it lessens the worries and stress you will have about this new milestone you are about to take on. Look for scholarships before you graduate high school. The longer you're in college, the less money is available to you. You also learn to appreciate scholarship money because you need not pay it back! Research what kind of social activities and clubs your college has. You'll find like-minded people and have create strong friendships. Stay busy and organized, and most of all, have a great time!

Krysitna

GO AND VISIT! Ask as many students as you can about their experience and do your reasearch.

Ryan

For parents and students who are looking to find the right college I would suggest talking to as many people as possible. Each person has different experiences in college. Listening to to as many experiences as possible will help you determine what each college is really about. However, firsthand knowledge is still the best. Make sure that you visit a potential university before making any decision. While your there, ask as many questions as possible for as many different sources. Then. hopefully you will be able to tell which college is "the one". In order to make the most of the college experience, a student must rememember to be both involved and balanced. On most campuses there are tons of organizations. There is sure to be one that every student will fit into. Join one of these organizations as soon as possible. They are a great way to meet new people. However, whatever a student decides to do in his or her free time, they must remember that too much of anything can be bad. Students who are able to remain balanced, are students that get the most out of college, both academically and socially.

Caitlin

The advice I would give to students would be to make sure that they will not get home sick and want to transfer back home immediately. Also, if possible, choose their major as soon as possible! They do not want to be stuck doing organic chemistry their senior year! To parents I would say to encourage their kids to find scholarships and to set aside time to study everyday, because if you fall behind in a class, it is very hard to get back on top. I honestly do not think that the location of college matters, I do not think it is embarassing to go to the college in your home state. What is more important is finding out if a bigger or smaller campus is the right one. Bigger schools tend to have more options, but are less personable, while smaller schools are friendlier but will not always have the right accomodations. Overall, I think a student can have fun and make friends at any college.

Tiffany

College is a time for change and for defining yourself as an individual. In order to do that, a person needs to be willing to take risks. Go for a college that will provide you with something different that will challenge yourself as a person. Never let anything stop you from making a decision. If a particular college stands out, but appears to have its faults, try to be flexible. Money is difficult with the current economy, but is something that you can earn with time. The size of a school is also challenging, but both small and large schools have their benefits. Getting the most out of college involves experience. Be willing to try new things and to go forward without looking back. Contemplating how great high school was isn't going to change anything. You can never go back to high school, so make the best out of what is put in front of you.

Montana

When chosing a college the new student should think about what they really want in a new school. They should try and visit the campus and talk to students who are currently enrolled at that college. There are many aspects of college life that people sometimes overlook such as greek life, school athletic events, clubs, and the town or city that surrounds the campus. All aspects big or small should be weighed and considered before making a final decision. While parents should be involved they should be cautious not to pressure the student to go to a specific school because it is the student who has to live and experience their college or university of choice. College is said to be the best time of many peoples lives and it should be a decision that is taken seriously.

Andrew

Definately visit the college campus before hand and consider things like reputation (academically and otherwise), distance, cost, climate, and size

Kathryn

Choose a college that you will be happy with - if you chose a school someone else wants, you will not be able to enjoy it. You'll work harder at a school you want to be at. Don't be afraid to take a year off, it gives you life experience... Don't be afraid to dive right in - it's easy to stay in the school mindset that way. Whatever you decide to do, be content with your decision and then get involved! Make the most of your experience - don't be afraid to ask question and speak up! You're paying for the school - use it!

Michelle

My best advice I can give to students trying to find the right college is to simply have fun. You may have a plan or not have a plan for your life, and you don't have to. It is during these years of your life you learn who you truly are. What your likes and dislikes are? Who your friends are and who you would like to be? It may seem overwhelming and scary at times and you may feel tempted to panic and freak out. I suggest this often. It is the only way to keep yourself going. Take a break from an essay to watch TV, talk to a friend on how much you hate the assignment, take a walk, whatever. Keep yourself interested in your work. Take classes that interest you, not the ones that let you sleep in. Do what makes yourself into school, because you will spend a lot of your time cursing at the wall if you don't take something that interests you. College is your chance to experience and try out new things.

katie

Cost is important.

Clarissa

Make sure, when you are choosing a college, to not only look at the degree program you are most interested in majoring in, but look at two or three alternate programs that may interest you. Most students change their minds about what they want to do, and it is important that if your first choice loses its appeal there are other options that you can succeed in and enjoy. I chose a school based on one program, and then when I lost interest I struggled to find other educational tracks that fit me. A lot of stress can be avoided if there are several choices that can make you happy. Finding the right balance in the size of the school is also important. Large schools often have more prestige, but make sure you don't have to sit on the floor for required large lecture classes. Check that there are enough classes offered for all students to get into, and see if specialized classes are not being cut from the schedule to make room for more large, general classes with a broader focus.

Adriana

I direct the following to parents since they have the most prominent role in where their child goes to college. From my first year and a half of college, I've learned that living not too close or not too far from home (an hour and a half away) was the best decision I could have made. I kept in touch enough and knew I could count on home anytime I needed support since physically it was only so far away. Don't think you should send your child to USC over the University of Arizona because of its reputation. The $50,000 more spent in California really goes to the same Bachelor's Degree that looks the same on a resume. Be sure to direct them to a school where they can feel themselves and become more independent. Persuade your sons and daughters to go to the school that is surrounded by students who value their education and work for their future. Make sure the school has something that interests your child social-life-wise, whether they enjoy partying or hanging out watching Friends with classmates. An environment where they can enjoy life yet concentrate on studies is key.

Jessica

I would recommend that a student visit many different campus along with their department of choice before choosing a school. Make sure all you financial needs are met before making a final decision. Choose a school with a low party/drinking reputation to insure a better education. It's important to become involved within the campus in your own way. Either by clubs, study groups, or employment. The semester goes by faster and more smoothly if you make at least one friend per class.

Elyse

The best advice that I would give to students is to do what you believe is right. Find the college that suits you and that you will enjoy. Apply everywhere you are interested in so that you do not have regrets. You only get the college experience once so you need to follow your heart and make the most of it. Once attending that school, remember that first and foremost you are there to study and get an education. Work and study hard, but also make sure you are well balanced: you need a social life. Live in the dorms so that you can meet new people; step out of your comfort zone and put yourself out there, even if that means going to your neighbor in the dorms and introducing yourself. Take initiative and do what you know is right. To parents I would say listen to your children. They know themselves better than you do and they know what will make them happy. Trust them, be supportive, and let them know that you are always there for them. College goes by so fast and you never know that until you realize it is almost over.