University of California-Davis Top Questions

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

Jorge

Most colleges, with the exception of the top known colleges, provide similar, if not the same, type of degrees. Thus, the only real difference that separates each college is the experience. The experience involves how well the environment helps in studying, what type of entertainment there is locally, how far away from home is the college, and other situation enhancing things that make the two to four year learning trip more interesting. The whole point of going to college is of course to study and attain a favorable career, but during the learning experience it is also crucial to make good connections and enjoy the time being spent.

Emanuel

Find a school that (1) has the major that your student is interested ,(2) has the type of environment that your student thrives in, and (3) Support your child in watever decisions they make.

Irina

Choose the school that you feel is best for you. Even if you choose it for specific reasons, it usually ends up working out. Also, make sure you live in the dorms and make lots of friends. I found that after you get out of the dorms its hard to keep in touch with people and you end up having a boring time. Also don't judge the greek system at your school before you get to know it. I joined my 2nd year in college and it was the best decision. Wait a year before you join unless you know for sure you want to! If you wait a year you will make a lot of outside friends so that when you join the greek system, you will also have outside friends to balance out your social life. Also, take classes that will show you what your major is really like and don't be afraid to take chances. Because you may take a class in another field and realize that you belong there and that is your passion. Be open minded!

JESSICA

I would urge students to walk around on the campus they want to attend in order to truly see if they can see themselves there. I would urge parents to have financial boundaries with their child. I saw so many parents hand out money to their kids in college that was wasted. To make the mot of a college experience requires effort on the student's part. Involvement is key. Connecting with your peers on campus in any way -- socially or in an interest group -- will truly enrich your experience. Also, treat college like an 8-5 job. If you are either studying or in class during those hours, just like a job in the real world, you will succeed (and have your evenings for fun. Also DO NOT GET A BOYFRIEND/GIRLFRIEND. I think it is an unnecceary distraction. =)

Jenny

Choose a school that has a reputable program in what the student in question wants to major in. If the student is undecided about his/her interests, choose a school with outstanding diverse programs, friendly students, and networking systems. A school's environment and accessibility to everyday conviences can greatly enhance a student's morale and study habits or disrupt a student's concentration and productivity. A positive social support system is very important to anyone under stress from finals and such, so join clubs to meet others with similar interests and find study buddies.

Daniel

I would say the most important piece of advice I can give to someone looking into different college options is to visit the schools you're considering, walk around the campus, and see how you feel there. Do you feel at home or unwelcome? Talk to as many people about their experiences and what brought them there, and whether they would go there again if they got the chance. Talk with professors in your department and see what they are like. Talk to alumni and ask if they feel that they were well-prepared for grown-up life. A school can look great on paper, but that's no way to predict your experience or how you're going to feel when you're there. People are generally very willing and eager to help out prospectives, and if they're not, that also gives you a good idea of the school atmosphere. Good luck and I hope this helps.

Seaton

College is about exploring, but if you can find what you like early on, work towards it by doing internships. A college degree is great, but it's not enough anymore as our country and world continues to develop.

chris

Go to uc davis period

Amanda

Visit the schools you are interested in attending. Make sure you can afford the housing around campus. Make a list of things that you would prefer (big vs. little city/town, campus size, etc.) and make sure that there are multiple programs you are interested in so that you have an alternative if one major/program doesn't work out.

Mayuko

Choose a place with many many opportunities. I was able to participate in several different internships, which helped to shaped my career goals. I was also able to travel abroad for the summer, which was one of the best opportunities in my life. Make sure it's somewhere the student will be able to focus but still have a life. Make sure its somewhere the student can feel comfortable and fit in.

Zena

I would encourage all students and parents to actually visit the campuses you are interested in, as it can make a huge difference. That's how I eliminated UC Santa Cruz, although my preferences have changed, and now I love the campus. If you (the student) has to live there for 4 years, or more, make sure you like it!

Megan

Visit each campus that you have been accepted to. You wouldn't buy a car with out driving it or a pair of shoes with out trying them on, you shouldn't pick a university by a pamphlet made by an advertising firm. Experience the campus, talk to students and try out the food before you make a commitment. Your college experience helps mold so much of the rest of your life, make sure that you find a school that you feel comfortable at.

Shobhik

To find something that they think would help the student evolve positively as a person. Most of us going through college aim to come out as better people - we strive for financial success, social recognition and other rewards, but we also try to give back to the society that we came from. The end goal of college is to make better men and women who are not only materially successful but also successful in helping other people. If someone can see themselves as better people four years from now because they chose a certain college, then they have chosen the right college. It's not just about what other people think of a prospective college, it's also about how you think the college will change you. Making the most of such a college experience is easy - all one has to do is keep an open mind and be accepting of new things and ideas. From then on, life in college gets a lot easier. Ultimately, choosing a college depends a lot on how you want to change, and accepting that change will make you happier.

Donald

Don't pick a college because of any one specific factors. Make sure the campus fits your needs academically, socially, geographically, and financially. This will guarantee you the oppurtunity to truly enjoy your college experience. Be sure to visit the campus if possible so that you can see the enviroment you will be living in for the next four plus years.

Pamela

I would tell parents and students that the name or prestige of a school is not an essential factor to one's success. The best thing to do would be to consider what type of environment you could see yourself fitting in and to consider what field you may want to pursue in the future. What is more important is how determined you are and how hard you work in the school of your choice. Wherever you end up, the college experience can be great as long as you want it to.

Alexandria

Study what you want to and enjoy the time you have there. Don't try to do anything to apease anyone and have fun!

Rachael

Go visit the colleges and ask students what they love most about the college and what they would do different.

Justin

I would advice the students to pick one that you feel you would love going to. Do not get influenced by others. Make sure that college has the major you want to get into. Parents should let their child pick for their own. Be supportive. This will be the students best 4 or 5 years of their lives. This is when the student becomes truely who they are in life. Yes, there will be mistakes and accidents, but that is natural. Not everyone is perfect. Support your student every way possible, and students listen to your parents because they too have gone this route.

Emilia

When choosing schools, visit the campus when school is in session. Try to talk to people who go there if you can, and read up about academic and extracurricular activities that are available. When you get there, remember that college isn't about judging people- it's about learning about YOURSELF. Everyone is there because they want to get ahead and learn, and if you are open minded and willing to learn, you will do so both in and out of the classroom. And lastly, your best memories will obviously be outside the classroom. Pick your friends wisely because they will be with you for life.

Rebecka

visit the college find the major that suits you and then find the college find a location that you like get friends, get into clubs and activities, but not too many since academics should come first enjoy college cuz it flies by.

Gabrielle

First and foremost I would select your campus using your gut instinct. The campus itself is what ultimately drives a student to get up for early morning classes. Whether you want the hipster scene of a big city school, or to leisurely ride your bike through a rural campus to attend class; I feel that a gut instict can be formed by a memorable building or an impressonable library. As a student, the best recommendation I can make is to introduce yourself to each professor you will ever have. This will come in so handy- whether you missed an exam or bombed a report, professors are always more gracious when there is already an amicable relationship- not when you come to them with favors. Some of my best college memories are of studying in our library, grabbing bagels on a Sunday morning after some house parties, and just biking around campus. I attended a very rural school and now live in San Francisco- I frequently will stumble across either a courtyard or a tree which remind me so much of my college years it is gut wrenching! That same gut which helped me choose my school so long ago.

Garnet

An advice I want to give students who are still looking for the right college is not to go for the best of the bestest just because it is the top school and assume other schools below its rank isn't good enough, but instead, pick the school that you think teaches at your academic level yet is still challenging. For if you pick a school that is too hard, you might have trouble throughout your college years which will not look good either. Therefore , pick the school you think you can handle. College might be easy to get into, but might be hard to stay in. Also, it's fine to have fun and make friends in college but watch who you hang out with because bad friends can influence you in a bad way and lead you in the wrong direction. College is costly and we don't have all the time in the world for second chances so think wisely about how to achieve your acdemic goals and always remind yourself of why you are in college to avoid regrets. These are all the things I've learned from my experience, hope it's helpful and goodluck.

Preston

I would advise them to do research about the college before applying, so they have a good understanding of what they're getting into. Once they are in college, they should make the most out of their experience by being involved in campus clubs and activities and getting to know more people.

Anagabriel

Honestly, sometimes you work so hard trying to do well in classes that you forget about your social life. However, if you focus on socializing, you will neglect your studies. Strike up a good balance. As for picking the right college, go with what feels right. Remember, you're hopefully going to be here for at least a couple of years. If you're not comfortable, it will go through to your studies.

Theresa

Visit all the campuses you are considering and, if possible, talk to students involved in activities you may be interested in joining. Trust your instinct and don't stress too much; chances are, even if you didn't pick the "perfect" school, if you have the right attitude and make an effort to GET INVOLVED, you'll find people and activities that you enjoy. If you end up hating it, you can always transfer but I recommened sticking it out for at least a year. And GET INVOLVED, I can't stress what a difference that makes. School work is important and never sacrifice studying, but it is so important to do something besides academics, wherever you end up!

Sergio

To the student finding the right college for them, i would have to say choose wisely on where you'll believe you'll do the most growing as a person. Don't Choose to go to a college just because most of your friends go there. Trust me when i say, you'll meet new ones that can help you grow and help find yourself where as, old friends which will always remain your friends, could possiblely sustain you from your full potential in growing. Not only would choosing the right college for your career, but i suggest that you choose one away from home. Get out into the world and learn its great mysteries!! Finally choose a school where you can see yourself happy for the next couple of years. Parents my advice is let go of your kids, not completely, but just enough for them to go out into the world and find out who they are going to be in it; because come'on lets face it they aren't going to be kids for long. Last is listen to what they need rather than what you think is best, this way they go off happy.

Katherine

Do visit campuses. Make sure you've had a chance to wander around and get a feel for the way the campus works. Go to the campus that you feel most comfortable at - academics are all well and good, but if you're comfortable at a college, you'll be able to set your own goals, and there will always be challenging classes available for those who want them. Comfort should be your top priority, and this applies to hobbies as well - if you want to party, don't go to a quiet campus. If you prefer peace and quiet, don't go to a party town. Once at a college, don't worry about being popular - it's really not a concern at college. Have a small or large group of friends, but be friends with people that you actually enjoy spending time with. Don't worry too much about making friends - most people have a small group opf people they spend time with, and it's okay! And above all, don't forget to stretch out in your new freedom. There are hundreds of possibilities available - use them!

Bao

Parents plus theird kids should visit the college to get the feeling if the college is right for their kids. Parents should try to do a little of research about the college before apply. Does their kids want big school or small school, private or public, small or large classes. All the factors should contribute to wheather the school is the right one.

Raghda

parents should be involved with their children's education as much as possible. Because I am a first generation immigrant whose parents didnt graduate high school; I was completly alone in the college experience. My parents didnt help financially or otherwise. I would engourge parents to be hands on with their children's education and their college choices. I would choose a college where the student would be enabled to succeed in the college experince. I wouldn't reccomend a college because of prestige or cost, but I reccomend a college where a student would feel like they belong in a family away from family. I have met many young adults that have dropped out of college because of pregnancy, binge drinking, sexual assaults, depression, and many other conditions that made them feel disoriented. I would caution parents that education comes before social life and that their is medication that treats depression and mental conditions that would make a student struggle in college. Money is a huge burden on students nation wide. I engourge parents to save as much money as possible for their children because I know part time jobs can be a hassle and a damper on grades,

Jennifer

One of the biggest problems I had when choosing a college was whether or not to focus on the institution?s prestige or the school which would provide me with enough financial aid to finish college debt-free. However, I didn?t want to go to a school that would undermine all the efforts and excessive studying I did while in high school. I knew I could handle the workload of a university and I didn?t want to settle on just any college that gave me scholarships. When it comes down to it, the student should choose a school suitable to his or her desires and abilities. Yes, if you were an ?A? student, you may not have to pay a single cent if you go to a community college, but will it challenge you it? Will you enjoy the time you will have to spend there? The preceding questions are what I believe all students should ask themselves when choosing a school, whether they are focusing on community colleges, state universities, or universities. One should find a school, which presents the best learning environment and the most challenging educational programs in respect to that individual?s potential.

Ben

Make sure that you visit and imagin yourself there.

Katelyn

Find a college where you fit in. Usually interested students visit potential colleges during the summer when the majority of the students at the campus are gone. Instead, visit the university during the school year; that way you can really experience the campus atmosphere. Sit in on a class, tour the dorms, and eat in the dining halls. Then, once you really experience each campus, choose the school that fits you the best. Finding a school in which you can have a great learning environment and fit into the community will definitely help you to succeed.

Aurelia

If you already know what career you want, you would do best to choose a college based on what school has the program that suits your needs best. For most of you, the students who have no idea what you want to do yet, there is a completely different set of guidelines. You are going to college to discover what field you want to work in and enjoy yourself during the process. Feeling comfortable is paramount, so find a college where you think you can fit in, someplace where your ideals resonate with that of the school. Make sure to visit a college before deciding to go there. Try to visit on a typical school day to really get a feel for what it's like. When you are walking around campus try to picture yourself doing this for the next several years and see how you feel about it. Check out some of the local clubs and see if the school has some of the activities that really interest you. Lastly, do not hesitate to sit in on some of the classes to get the feel for what you are actually going to this school for.

Mark

Go to the school during a school day and walk around and go to one of the lectures of a GE class. Since its a GE class these will be the types of lectures you will be going to. Check out the gym. Talk to an advising cousler in your area of study to see how helpful they are and if they have any tips (try not to go in the middle of a semester they are not quite so busy then). See what programs they offer for study abroad, internships and study help. If you are planning on transfering make sure they have programs to help you adjust to the different lifestyle and flow of your new school.

Jessica

Finding the right college to attend can be very stressful to both the student and the parent, especially when the subject is addressed at the last minute. The advice that I give to students and to their parents is to start thinking about what school you want to attend early on in high school, considering the location of the school, whether or not that school has a good program for the magor or field of study you want to go into, the cost of attendance, the housing options of the school, and the extracurricular activities offered by the school. To make the most of the college experience make sure to participate in campus activities, try joining a club, as well as taking a couple of classes that interest you that arn't necessarily required for your major. And remember to keep a good balance between your academics and your other activities.

Pai-Feng

You need to start looking for your college when you are in the junior year in high school.

Dashi

Choose a few colleges that are appealing to you based on geography and academic standing. Take a whole summer out to visit the campuses and spend a couple of nights in that city or town. Make sure you research everything you can about the financial aid available for that college and whether or not you qualify. Supplement this research with online research as well. Plan ahead and leave room for emergencies since FAFSA doesn't consider emergencies, mortgages and that you've maybe lived in another country. Then, based on this research, choose the top 5 and interview alumni and parents of alumni at these colleges to get feedback. Parents, find the money to let your children stay off campus so they can truly experience the college life. If you don't live on campus, it is hard to socialize with the people on campus and find out everything there is to know about the school. Students, try to balance a job with extracuricular activities and school work wisely to reap the benefits. remember, without a social life in college, you miss out on things to put on your transcript for graduate school (if you are planning on going).

Jennifer

I strongly encourage both the students and parents to visit the campus and become familiar with the surrounding areas, acedemics, and other activities the campus has to offer. Once the college is chosen, I would encourage the student to live in the dorms, even if they aren't in the best of shape or have the greatest food. It is the best way to make friends and find study buddies. Also while in the dorms, the student should not limit themselves to only meeting people on their floor or in their building. That is the piece of advice I wished that I received. Once the first few months go by, a lot of people form their groups and it is much harder to make new friends and find people with the same interests as you. If this happens, the next best thing to do is join a club or recreational sports team to meet new people. The best way to enjoy your college experience is to go into it with an open mind and be friendly to everyone that you meet. That way you will come across as a fun person and will make many lifelong friends.

Mona

My advice to everyone that is seeking a higher education is to be willing to explore all of the possibilities, but to never just "settle" for a particular school. I think it is very important that both students and parents keep an open mind when deciding which college is right for them. It seems that more and more parents and children alike strive to be accepted to only the most prestigious institutions, instead of seeking the college that is most suitable for their field of study, interests, and aspirations. While it is very important to chose a school that will be academically challenging and rewarding, it is equally significant to make a final decision based not simply on the name of the institution, but rather the opportunities and environment that will provide the best educational and personal growth for each individual.

Christine

I believe some of the most important factors when choosing a college are finances and the type of college experience you or your student would like. Questions like ?What kind of college would you be able to afford?? and ?What kind of and how much financial aid would you able to utilize?? are critical when it comes to determining the kind and quality of school to attend. The kind and quality will also determine the type of college experience. Personally, I chose a state university far from home because I felt I needed the independence to learn and gain responsibility as a growing adult in society. Additionally, I also thought of choosing a private design school close to home, but the cost of attending prevented me and getting a more well-rounded education at a university, even at the cost of greater housing costs and time spent in school become more appealing nonetheless. If there is one thing I learned from my college experience so far is that I have learned more about myself, my beliefs, and my boundaries than any other experience.

Eliza

My advice would be to visit all or most colleges the student is interested so that they would get a feel of the environment and get their questions answered by those who attend the college or university. After the visits, apply to the colleges that appealed to the student the most. When acceptance letter's come, choose the school that best fits the individuals goals and personality. To make the most out of the college experience, definitely live in the dorms; the student will be able to learn about people from different places and different backgrounds. He or she will be able to learn how to be independent. When the student comes home, it will be a wonderful moment because he or she will be able to appreciate the little things in life such as home-cooked meals, spending time with friends and family, and just being home. When we are exriencing the college experience, the little things in life become some of the big, important things in life. Get involved in clubs and organizations that fit your personality. Work hard, enjoy the college life, and give yourself a chance to grow in any way possible.