University of California-Santa Cruz Top Questions

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

Carli

Being in my third year of college and having had a variety of experiences I would tell myself as a senior in high school that college is your opportunity to discover who you are and who you want to become. I would encourage myself to take advantage of every opportunity presented to me as I enter into college. Meet as many people as possible, build your network of associates. Participate in sports, clubs, on campus activities, or any leadership positions to prepare you for working with others in the business world. Take classes that you are really interested in and that you would enjoy going above and beyond for. A university education is expensive and you want to make sure you get academically what you have paid for financially. Once college is over you are forced into the real world and loaded with decisions and responsibilities. Take these four years to accomplish your goals, establish the path you want to be on once you've graduated, and discover who you are as an individual.

Melissa

I would tell myself to stay in school and focus to get the good career afterwards. I was never good at attending school or finishing school work, i chose to play instead. Although i did get get my highschool diploma and got lucky with a decent job a few years out of highschool, i always kick myself for not attending college sooner. The more time goes on the harder it is for me to find the motivation to go, and now having 2 kids its even harder to find all the time. If i could go back now and tell myself all of the struggles i went through and the hard times I've had not being able to get the great paying job due to lack of schooling i would change it all!

Heather

Dear Heather, Try not to be nervous about leaving your friends behind and making new ones because you'll find the right friends if you just be yourself. Don't be too upset when you don't get straight A's; the assignments and exams are more difficult here than they were in high school. Just do your best and try your hardest because in the end you will still have learned a lot. Be sure to spend some time on activities outside of school, you'll need friends and fun times to get you through those challenging courses. Don't be afraid to try new things; join an intramural sports team, a club or take a dance class to meet new people and learn more about yourself. Also, be sure to ask for help when you need it. Your professors are paid to help you learn, so take advantage of office hours and discussion sections to help you do well in your classes. Finally, leave your expectations behind, have a blast, and never give up! Love, Heather

Sawyer

Sawyer- It's me. Or you. Whichever, I'm already half way through college, and we have a chance to start over- Some tips for the road: -Taking your own advice is one of the toughest things to do in life, but regardless of whether it works out, you still believed in yourself, and that's what matters. Don't turn away because of timidness. -College course work isn't what it was hyped up to be, but it's still something to be prepared for. Knowing you can handle what they throw at you is half the battle. -You were born in the US, not Togo, or Swaziland; recognize your blessings. -That being said, don't you dare sit on the sidelines too much; get active, play games, discover new people, but most of all, face head on the apprehension you feel within; destroy it, crush it with new feelings and ideas and desires. -Be ever-changing but still true to yourself. -Relax. Wake up each morning as if you were tackling the day with new spirit and agenda. -20years from now you'll wish you'd have done more, but let's limit that the best we can.

Dan

As a senior I was unaware of the storm on it's way. Today I would say to my past self that no matter how bad things get it will only be a temporary period, and doors will start opening up for you real soon. During college a tempest of social, academic, and family problems berated me continuously. Contrary to my positive expectations of college, my life took several turns for the worst and I ended up feeling like a broken man. During this crisis it took tremendous effort to maintain good grades and try to connect with others. After many years of hard work life is looking much brighter. I have discovered a career path that I am excited about working as a public consultant. I want to help develop environmental policies that improve our nation, without causing people to sacrifice their quality of living. I will work to achieve this by developing better urban planning, transportation, and waste management. I am also connecting better with my friends and family, and I can see now that my future has great potential. This scholarship will help fund my tuition so that I can achieve those bigger things. Thank you, Dan.

Percy

Hey PJ, I know you think that college is all about partying, girls, and sports... but the main reason you go to college is to get an education an prepare yourself for a career and a life

Hannah

If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to stop procrastinating! College is definitely a time of independence and mommy and daddy are no longer there to tell you when to do work. The quarter system at UCSC goes by so fast that you need to be on top of work. Once you lag behind, it is very difficult to catch up. I would also tell myself to be more open with people during freshman year. With the shock of a new environment, I closed myself off during my first year to most of my hallmates and I was scared of meeting new people. I wish I could tell my old self that people at Santa Cruz are actually quiet friendly and not as scary. My high school self was really scared of coming to Santa Cruz and I wish I could have come into school with a better and happier attitude. Lastly, I would tell my old self to be open to the idea of being a Business Management Economics major. It took me a whole year to finally realize that I actually like the BME major and that I'm actually good at those courses.

Kimberly

If I could talk to myself as a high school senior, the most important advice I would give would be to stop stressing. Stop worrying about prestige, about being the top of the class, and just get into the groove of learning for the sake of learning, not for credentials or grades. I have forgotten so much of what I learned in K-12 public education because I was so focused on the grades; on getting into a good school so that I could have the life I envisioned, but here I am now, in my backup backup school without much prestige, and I'm happy, and I'm learning, and my bachelor's degree in literature from Santa Cruz will be no less helpful to me than one from San Diego, or those coveted Ivy leagues, in my quest to become a teacher. So I would tell myself to stop stressing out, and also to be careful of dining hall food, because that freshman fifteen is no myth.

Jennifer

Being a college student isn't just about going to parties all the time or studying for classes 24/7. To be a successful college student, while also having a good time with friends, you must know how to manage their time well. Staying in the room and sitting at the desk all the time makes you miss all the opportunities that college has to give you. College life isn't about just getting good grades so that you can have a successful career. It is a time to interact with your peers and learn how to make smart decisions on your own, which will allow you to have more independence. However, you must not get carried away with socializing with others and have that be the only thing your doing. A major reason that you're going to college is to have a successful career. If your grades are not up to par, then there would have been no point in all your work that got you into college. As a college student, you must know the balance between socializing and studying. Don't expect yourself to be either studying all the time or partying all the time.

Eunice

As a high school senior, I had many interests and my mind boggled at the many major options. Coming to college, I didn't know what to expect. Moving out of my house and living away from the parents for the first time, meeting new people, taking college courses--they were all questions that I had coming in. Knowing what I know now about college life and making the transition, if I could go back in time, I would advise myself to take my time in college, enjoy the college life but at the same time, study when needed. Be open to meet new people and to try new things. I would also tell myself to get involved as much as possible! More specifically, I would tell myself to consider majoring in math education, or biology and environmental studies. And lastly, call your parents and no matter how much they may call you, don't take it for granted. Enjoy!

Risa

Dear high school senior me, What kind of campus atmosphere do you see yourself in? Are you happy there? What opportunities do you see yourself taking? Is it just like you imagined? Well, reality sets in and one decision can change your life. You expected to be making the right decision because this school was known to be academically best out of your school choices. And how would you have known that you'd have a horrible roommate your first year? You wouldn't. You didn't. You were far away from home without a friend that you can truly trust, and even when you did, one transferred and one dropped out. It's true, you do have fun with your friends out of the dormitories and you'll miss them once you graduate, but something's still missing. This place just doesn't have the right atmosphere for you. So my piece of advice is to go to a state college, try your hardest, transfer, and make it to the top. I believe in you. Sincerely, college me.

Mariana

Looking back at myself as a high school senior I realize I was a bit naive to the realities of life. Most might go back and advise their younger self to create effective study habits, become organized, learn how to make friends and become responsible and while I consider these aspects extremely important I think I would give myself slightly different advise. I would put a lot of emphasis on learning how to be your own person. I would tell myself that in college there is nobody watching you, telling you what to do, say, how to think or what to do and not do. You must develop enough strength in yourself to be able to say no to what goes against your beliefs and create a sense of morals and values in yourself that you will be able to follow without anyone there supervising. All in all, I would advise myself as a high school senior to be the kind of person that would look back and be proud of their choices. Become the person who wouldn't have to act one way when watched and a different way in other situations. Be consistent and responsible in your actions.

Nestor

I would've told myself to apply for a lot of scholarships and to take the AP tests to prepare myself better for college.

Erin

If I could go back in time and let my self know the things that I now know about college life I would tell myself to calm down. Last year I was really stressed about how hard college was going to be and whatnot and now that I've been here for four months I would most defintely tell myself that yes it has its moments and that you do have to try and work hard, but also that it isn't as stressful and terrifying as people make it seem.

Delmer

Wow!! What wouldn't I tell myself? Firstly, don't take summer school, you're going to want a break before you take the plunge into four more years of uncertainty dipped in disappointment and sprinkled with sleepless nights. Secondly, go buy a donut. Well, it isn't all that bad, I mean you still have awesome hair, oh wait you don't because you got a horrible hair cut in the future so be afraid of haircuts! Aside from those, undeniably important tidbits of information which will get you through the next two years, that's it. Alright, there's one more thing. Don't go to college and study something mom wants you to. It has to come from you, this is your life after all, heck don't listen to me (or you from the future). Don't major in business administration, or culinary arts, or even marine biology, don't pick a major. Take a spectrum of classes, learn more about everything that interests you and when you find your passion, it'll come naturally. Don't just dive in thinking this is what you want because there is so much more. Think for yourself.

Nathan

My advice to myself back in high school would be to experience every type of class possible, and enjoy all the time I had with my friends. When I got to college, I found that I didn't have all the educational experience I could have had to better pursue my chosen career. This wasn?t necessary a problem, but it would have been nice to know about the advantages high school could have given me. Also, for many, going to college means starting a new life with new friendships. I often miss seeing and spending time with my old friends. But these things aren't problems that should have been avoided. I'm happy with the new life i'm living, and I wouldn't trade it for the world.

Jenna

I would say not to be afraid to try new things and meet new people. I would say explore the city and campus as much as possible. On a campus as big as this one, everyday can be a new adventure, but only if you want it to be! I would remind myself that academics are only part of the reason to go to school, you need to be independent and take control of your own life. Don't let other people tell you what you want. I would also say don't be afraid to talk with your teachers and other figures of authority, they want you to have the best experience and want to help you.

Danielle

The best advice I could give would be to visit the physical campus of schools and get a hands on feel for what student life is like there. Too many schools sounds great on paper or look good in brochure pictures, but can have a much different impact in real life. And once you've done that, than follow your heart and go with your gut when making the final decision as to where to attend. Don't be influenced by peers, teachers, or parents, but choose the school that fits your own interests and personality. It may be challenging, but in the long run it will pay off. I had to learn this the hard way and I'm now transferring schools as a result. Not only would I give this advice to myself as a highschool senior, I give it to highschoolers I know in my own family and community. Most people only get to go through college once, so you want to have the most enjoyable and rewarding experience possible by choosing the school that is truly right for you. If you are in the right learning environment, you will naturally thrive and succeed.

Dianna

As a high school senior I would have told myself to start saving money. I would've warned myself about the cost of school, as well as the possibility of costs rising as I am enrolled and trying to finish a degree. I would also give myself the advice of taking as many classes at my community college that work towards my major. I entered UCSC as a transfer student, and I wish I would've taken advantage of taking more Biology classes at my community college before applying. On another note, I would've told myself to take my future into my own hands. Don't just rely on the words or recommendations of counselors, or transfer forms, but more so use that transfer form as a simple guideline and incorporate classes for my major into that guideline; that way I would have maximized eveyrthing I could get from the community college, before heading to a university. I would say balance your major courses with other mandatory classes that way you have some of your interests in every quarter of your school year. I would've definetly havew done things a bit different.

Jason

Self, I know you now listen. Get in to college now. Do not pass go do not try and get a seeming good job. Skip AIU and go in for eather nursing or zoology. Trust me I'm you and you'll love it.

Christina

When I was a high school senior in 1998, I decided not to attend college directly after completely my first 12 years. I fall into the category of the "untraditional" student, and I do not regret any of the time that I allowed myself to experience the working world. In fact, I believe the expectations on high school students to enter college and get a degree in order to participate in the working force until they retire is unreasonable for many. The pressure and belief that there is no other option to that chronology forces young adults to choose careers hastily, thus often resulting in eventual unhappiness. I do believe that as a country we must foster an intelligent and inspired population. The difference lies in our attitudes of what defines success and happiness. Some people benefit from taking time to understand themselves and the world better in order to choose an appropriate career path. I am an example of that model. If I visited myself in high school, the first piece of advice I would offer is to take chances and believe in yourself. With that positive mind frame success and happiness will follow. Secondly, it will take time.

Hana

Knowing what I know now, I would maybe tell myself to stress a little less, and to live out my final year surrounded by the people I love. However, I feel that I handled my senior year well. Everything that I did lead up to this point, and added to the person I am now. Who knows how my interference would have impacted me, would I even be the same person? I do not know. I have no regrets, and I did what it took to make my grades as close to perfect as I could. I lived and learned, so maybe... Yes, maybe I would not tell myself anything. I would let myself go through the same things, to become who I am, a person who I am proud of.

Nicole

If I could go back and talk to myself senior year, I would tell myself; Nicole, never stop applying for scholarships or jobs! Trust me you will need the money. Also can you please just break up with Mark, he is just going to break your heart once you leave. But do you remember George, your best friend? Yeah, you should give him a call. May I also suggest you apply for a triple room instead of a single, you will probably move out of the single by the second quarter anyways. In a triple you?ll be able to socialize and make a couple new friends right away, while in a single you?ll most likely end up hiding and sleeping in it all day. Look for a girl named Edith, she will turn out to be your best friend. Don?t be afraid to go knocking on peoples doors, you can meet some cool people that way as well. All in all Nicole your going to do great in college, the first year and a half are going to go great for you, so simply keep studying and have fun. Always, a good friend.

Andrew

If I had the opportunity to go back in time, and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would have much to say. First off, come out of your shell earlier. There are going to be many things you'll regret not taking part of in your first year of college, things that will never come about again as long as you're here. And secondly, don't take for granted those friends back home. Take care of yourself, watch your own back before others. Don't fall in love with your friends. It's only going to complicate things. Friends are priceless, and so make as many as you can. Expand yourself, get out of your comfort zone. Be adventurous. Take scuba diving immediately. Keep applying for those internships. Also, stop and smell the seawater in the air at least once a day. Appreciate this beauty, Andy. It won't last forever.

julio

As an individual and a student here in UC Santa Cruz have learned and experienced much my first year. I will advice my self to understand the importance and the characteristics a college student. I will talk to myself about the importance of attending class regularly and on time, do extra credit whenever, assignments done neatly, if I need help solicit my instructor, be attentive in class, courteous, and polite. Also comprehend the imporatnace of speaking up in class, identify what needs to be study in detail, set short-term and long-term goals, see teachers before and after class, time management, and that I am responsible for my own success. The transition that I made in my writing was difficult, but now i have an idea of the structure of a formal college essay. I would also take as many college class as possible so that I may have more units whenI start and get a heads up on my major. Dedication and persistence will be what will help me be successful in college. I know that nothing is impossible and that nothing is to big and that every goal is reachable if one gives all of their heart.

Kathy

Take advantage of college counselors and department advisors. They are very informative and friendly. If you can, try to live off- campus; it's actually less than half of what you pay for on-campus and meal plan expenses. There's a lot of housing available, just make sure to explore all the possibilities. Don't be afraid to inquire. Everyone here is ready to help students. The professors in particular are usually eager to get to know students; make sure to make yourself known - they make very good contacts and don't forget a good student. Courses tend to be a lot of work... if you want to get an A. Learn how to manage your time, and always make sure to make space for fun and extracurricular activities. Learn the bus schedule. They are essential for your transportation and are often reliable (98{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of the time).

Brian

As a senior, I worked harder than any other year of schooling. Unfortunately, I was not the most excellent student in previous years. At first I would tell myself to focus and excell in all that I did. In college, I have learned that my high school study habits would not allow myself to do well. In high school, those same study habits got me through with decent grades. Applying those study habits in my first quarter of college proved to be devastating. I did not fail any of my classes, but at the same time, I did not do well in any of them. My high school senior self will need to understand that not everything will be easy like high school. Instead, he needs to begin improving study habits, begin focusing on lectures in class and taking good notes. I would also tell myself to be prepared for temptations and to have the courage to make right decisions. Putting my faith in God, my family and friends has allowed me to become a better student and make great decisions. My advice would be to never lose sight of my faith and goals.

Michael

I would tell stories of redemption and sorrow, stories of love and kindness, and stories of laughter and fun. Having experienced all that I have in the last few years at college, I would recount stories of hard work and late nights, nights where sleep was never an option. Through these stories I would tell the senior version of myself to work hard, but more importantly, to have fun. I remember being such an uptight kid, but it was a needless hindrance to what the beginning of my college experience could have been. I could have been more outgoing and experimental, but was overly cynical about trying anything new. Having experienced quite a bit, I would tell my high school self to take every opportunity as a way to meet new people, make new friends, and to have a fun time at UCSC.

Diana

I would tell myself to apply for more UC's (I didnt think I would get in) because the high school I went to was more academically competitive, so a lower GPA is worth more than the same GPA from a regular high school. Also, taking the AP test gives you credits that help raise your status and sign up for classes earlier than others.

Ivan

The time that I have spent in Santa Cruz has made me realize the capability I have to be as intellegent and educated as a more priviledged classmate. I was raised in an immigrant mexican-american family which recently endured some economic hardships. I am also the first of my family to go to college and at first I felt limited by this situation. I was unaware of all the possibilities that I could have taken in order to further my academic success. I am not saying I was given a poor education, no, I was just not informed of things I could have done. I would tell my senior self to have looked for an SAT prep course and take more AP classes to finish the first requirements for college. I would also have told my freshman self to begin community college and get rid of classes that I knew for a fact were not in my major interest but still satisfied some general education coursework; so as to ease the stress and give more effort to your major; to have more time. Now as a double major, I know that my family members will not be misinformed.

Taylor

I would tell myself that it is ok whatever you get on an AP score or SATs. One your in college it really doesn't matter. The difference between an 4 and a 5 on an AP test means nothing here.

fernanda

If i could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would mainly give myself advise about managing my time. Getting your refund check might be fun at times but it is really easy to get out of hand with money and spend it on things you really don't need, so spend your time and money wisely is something i would tell myself too. Yes, your going away from home but sometimes you might still feel homesick, just make sure you keep in touch with family and friends. You have no one telling you what to do but always remember that your main priority is school. College is a lot of fun, but you have to be on top of your studies in order to succeed! There is a lot of partying, and socializing ivolved in the college life, but just make smart decisions. Have fun and enjoy one of the best years of your life!

Emily

Hello past me. I have a few things to tell you about college before you arrive. Be prepared to study much more than you ever did in high school and stay focused. College is not a cheap place so DO NOT waste your time there. Keep your grades up as high as possible. A strong start will help immensely when it comes to college. Be prepared to live in a small place and facilitate good people skills. Knowing how to live respectively and communicate with the people around you is a necessity. Parties are fun but DO NOT go overboard. Many freshman drop out the first year of college and your future self has seen this several times. Maintaing an equilibrium between school and social time is important. Find a niche of good friends who influence you in a positive way. GET SLEEP! Save a small amount of time to exercize everyday or at least a few times a week. College life is not necessarily a healthy one so this is important. Join a bunch of clubs they are helpful for making friends and pursuing your different interests. Above all have fun with the new found freedom... it's great!!

Leidy

The advice I would give to myself if I could go back in time to being a High School senior. I would definitely tell myself to become more independent and start learning how to drive early. Get my license and a job to know what responsility is all about. I would also tell myself to enjoy but also stay focused on the right stuff and stay in the right path at all times. Save my money as much as possible because it is very important to be financially stable and to get an education. Apply for scholarships and search around as much as possible. Acknowledge education is very imortant and take it very seriously. Realize how important family is and that friends will not always be there but that they will come and go as you go through life. Love yourself and stay focused on the goals that are set.

Sara

I would tell myself that college is more than just an educational experience it is a life experience that can shape the kind of person you've always wanted to be.

Rahul

When you get to college, don't close yourself up. Some peope tend to do that due to their shyness or lack of self confidence. College is all about experimenting and trying new things and build your character. Meet as many people as you can, build a group where you fit in, and some of those friends will turn out to be life long buddies. As for focusing on school, stay on top of school and you will have an amazing time. Its like "word hard, play harder. " At college, you will meet people with different views on life, respect their beliefs. You may disagree with them, but stil respect from where they come from. It will help you understand the social behavior of the community. Be a lover, not a fighter. You are in college, do not involve in any kind of physical argument. If someone disrespects you, just ignore it. You are starting a new life, you have a fresh start, work hard, have a competitive GPA and devote yourself with your hobbies. College will be a tremendous journey, regardless of where you go,. College is the great way to build a limitless potential for your future.

Serena

Your first year of college is the best year; do not miss out on any of it. Experience the amazing social life that living on campus has to offer, but remember to study hard as well. If you can learn to balance schoolwork and social life, college will be very enjoyable for you and your parents. Fimd out what classes to take early on so that you will not have to worry about being behind in your major. Take language and physical education classes; they may not be fun in high school, but in college, it is how you make a wide variety of friends. Use all of the amenities that the school offers, this might be the only time that the gym is free and the library is large. Explore the campus, early and often. Experience and try new things. You have four years to create a lifetime of memories.

Adam

Make as many friends as possible, take advantage of more extra-curricular activities such as; sailing and on-campus sports. Avoid taking classes that have no value ( I took a History of Dinosaurs class and a Beatles music class - These classes were fun but i probably should have more practicle courses such as computer programming.

Leticia

If you're going to go to a four year university out of high school take all general education courses. Don't assume you have a strict plan. Pick a path but make sure to leave room for electives. In terms of classes, don't take all hard science and math courses in one quarter. Spread out the difficulty across the year. More importantly go to every class. No one is there making you go but you are paying a lot of money to take the classes. Make plenty of friends not only in the dorms, but on the athletic team and classes as well. Studying in a group is more effective than being alone. Athletics are great but make sure you have a back up plan for your future. Create a schedule, make time for class, homework, and fun. Create contingencies; make sure all school work is done before doing anything fun on the weekend. Most of all have fun, it's the best four years of your life.

Ariana

To always study, and not put things off until the last minute

Daniel

In order to truly know what you are getting into when you decide to attend a college, you have to visit it. Being able to see, hear, and feel the atmosphere and setting of a college is extremely important in understanding what awaits you if you choose to spend your next four to five years there. Also, try and decide what general career path you want to pursue prior to accepting admission, choosing a college with a strong department in the field of your interest is very important, and knowing before hand which introductory classes you should take is extremely helpful. I originally was a proposed psychology major, but soon switched over to neuroscience, as I wanted to challenge myself, but I had a later start to all the introductory math and science classes I had to take than I would have liked. It is not important to know exactly what you want your career to be, I still don't know, what is important is to find a subject you are passionate about, for if you are not passionate you will not have the success you desire.

Meegan

College is totally different from high school. There is no one there to tell you that the assignment or the reading needs to be done. There is little room for mistakes such as the computer didn't print or I had a game. There is little to no extra credit work. Your grades are primarily based on two or three tests during the quarter. My college is on the quarter system and it moves very fast. There is virtually little breathing room. To do well, it is important to do the assignments when assigned and keep up with the lectures. If you need help, find it before test time. Tutors and office hours gets super impacted when it gets closer to mid terms and finals. Get to know your professors. The better the professors know you, the more likely that you will get a better grade if there are any conflicts. Form study groups and be responsible for learning what you need to know. Above all, make friends and have fun. Friends who will be there when you need them will become your lifetime buddies.

Rahul

When you move in your dorm, introduce yourself with your Ra's and building mates. The faster you build friendships, the better transition you achieve. Introduce yourself with the faculty and staff, their guidance is essential. Stay connected with your old friends, so when you go back home, you know who to share your first college experience with. Work hard, play harder!

Sajira

I would definitely emphasize that everything works out in the end. Although college is completely different, shockingly different, it's one of the greatest transitions that you will make in life, and there's nothing to worry about.

jackie

Even though I took a handful of AP and honors classes in high school, I was never very motivated to challenge myself academically. Upon acceptance to UC Santa Cruz, my indifference to schoolwork prevailed through my freshman year because I took classes that were easy, not interesting to me. I really loved earth science, but I was afraid of failure and I felt too dumb to take long series of chemisty, calculus, and physics prerequisites especially when I knew nothing of academic discipline. After switching between multiple social science majors, I finally decided to declare earth sciences. Looking back to my high school self, I would tell myself that I can do anything if I really put my mind to it and if I love something to just go for it because in the end, no amount of intellegiance determines academic success, rather it is passion for a subject that propels the incentive for success. I wish I knew my potential when I first started college, but now I know and I plan on ultilizing this in my life endeavors.

Nicole

If I could go back and give advice to myself as a high school senior there are only a few things I would tell myself. First thing I would say to me would be, "never trust your counselor." My advice would be to use what counselors advise as a guide to be followed by diligent self research. Only you can be trusted with your future as only you will be affected by bad advice. The second piece of advice I would have for myself would be not to waste money by going straight to a four year school. As a transfer student from Santa Rosa Junior College I can attest to the fact that the preparation provided by this college is more than comparable to the preparation provided by a reputable four year school. In many instances I have felt that my preparation was superior to fellow students who started initially in the four year system. This is all that I would tell myself however.

Justine

Dear Justine, You have the whole world ahead of you, and I know that this overwhelming phenomenon scares you, but in the coming years you will slowly but surely find yourself: who you are, what you love, maybe even who you love. So even though the world is displaying its numerous wares and hustling you to choose one, tell the world that it's going to have to wait to meet Justine Campbell, she's in no rush to find her path. Buena Suerte, Justine

Edward

Do not get lazy whatsoever, it will be the death of you when you enter college. Make sure you stay on top of all your work because if you do not understand anything, get help. The UC syster is quarterly so time passes quickly. Adjust your life to do well in a short amount of time.

Stephanie

Don't forget to live.

Hannah

Try to get along with everyone and have an open mind. People are going to be much different from the ones in your hometown, but that doesn't mean that they are uninteresting or untolerable. Hang out with people that you wouldn't normally hang out with. Be safe and make smart choices, but try new things and experience different people. Never pass up a date, either! ;) Soak it up-you will have an amazing time, but you have to put in some effort! Don't pass up and opportunities to make awesome memories., because the friends you meet here will be ones that you will hopefully keep your whole life. Get involved in your dorm events, your school, and your community. All three of these will effect your social life and shape the person you are becoming. Be smart about time management. Don't eat in the dining hall too much, and keep in touch with old friends.(they are just as important as you new ones will be)! Also, stay in touch with your parents and siblings. They may have things that you would rather not hear, but those things will probably help you in the long run!