University of Central Florida Top Questions

My college experience has been good latley. I actually like college more than highschool sometimes i actually wake up and whant to go to school not like in high school were the clases put me to sleep. I think its a good experience because, i made me think diffrently about my self. This change was positive know i think that iam capable of doing anything i want as long as i work hard on my goal. I think attending college is also good becase, iam am starting a foundation for a better future. If i wouldnt of started to get an education i would not have the chanse to get a well paying job. In conclusion , every one should have an education.

As of right now my college experiencing has not ended so I don't know what to think about it overall. From what I've experienced however, I've really enjoyed attending college as an undergraduate. I've had the opportunity to meet so many people outside of Florida. I've had the chance to work with innovative professors and learn valuable information pertaining to my career and major. I think it is valuable to attend college because it gives a person a chance to network and connect with others. Attending a university is the middle point between being an adult and being a child. One gets to test the waters before going out to the "real world". College is essential to expand your knowledge, network/connect, and to live.

Because of college, I have not only been exposed to different viewpoints and lifestyles, but I have understood and appreciated them as well. College is exposing me to diverse people, diverse opinions, and to opportunities I would have never known of otherwise. Without college, I would never hear classroom discussions between people of contrasting backgrounds and beliefs; discussions that are valuable because they provide exposure to viewpoints that I otherwise might not consider. Integration of diverse people allows me to "put a face" to beliefs and groups that seem so unfamiliar. Because college is so encouraging of open-mindedness, I have been able to be more open-minded in life outside of college as well. College is valuable to me not only for the education I have gained, but because it encourages me to seek education in all other aspects of life. Fascinating professors, such as my professor who is the former ambassador to Senegal, have made me put greater consideration into what I want to do for the rest of my life. I am not the same person I was before I attended college; my goals are greater and my education has no limits.

Attending college has given a new way to see the world. I am more responsible and understand how hard life can be. Although times are hard and money is rough due to how expensive college is, loans help along the way, and working two jobs can help as much as it can, but through all of this debt I am greatly appreciative to my college experience because it really has taught me that in life we need to work for what we recieve; we are not just going to be handed it for free. Through all of this does come fun times with friends and family, and I really appreciate my family more than anything because my parents work so hard to give me things when I was younger. I wish I would have known what I know now that I would not have wanted and expected so many more things in life. College changed my life to see the beautiful surrrondings and the small things that could always make us happy because all we need are the little things in life, not the extravagant things we think we need. That is what my college experience has taught me!

My college experience has been nothing short of life changing. Since my very first day of College I have experienced racial discrimination from other students and I also became friends with individuals that I never thought I would become close to. Once I arrived during my freshman year at my on-campus housing, I instantly realized that I was in the real world and from that point on I knew that my success would be completely up to me, and me only. After experiencing discrimination far beyond what I could imagine and experiencing love and acceptance from individuals from all walks of life, I have learned to be less judgemental and more open to new and different things. Attending college has played a valuable role in building my personal character and it has also given me tools to be able to discern from what's right and what is wrong. If I could re-do my college experience I would do things exactly the same. All of the good and not-so-good times has molded me into the person that I am today and will stick with me as I continue to learn and mature.

In just one semester of attending college, I have learned so much about myself. Before attending school I relied heavily on other people, but when I got to college there was no one else to rely on besides myself. There was no one to tell me to go to class, to clean my room, to do my homework besides myself. I learned independence and hardwork. Accomplishing things on my own made me feel like I was growing up and becoming a better person. I volunteered for homecoming, which was an amazing experience. I joined a few clubs I was passionate about and became involved in the community I was going to be apart of forever. I couldn't imagine not going to UCF. In just one semester I became a whole different person and I cant wait to see who I am going to become in four years after graduation.

My first year to attend Texas A&M has been an awsome experience. I have learned so many different things, not only educational but real life lessons. This being my first time away from home, I have learned to be independant and not rely on anyone else to take care of me. I have learned many things in my psychology classes, which has made me more determined to achieve my degree. My college experience has taught me that I can achieve my goal if I put my mind to it. I'm not going to lie, the first semester here in College Station was very hard for me. I have had to learn how to study and predict what the exams will be like. Testing does not come easy to me so it is a very rewarding feeling when I receive that test grade and it is a passing grade. All my experiences in college have been valuable to me. Every day is a vast learning experience.

When I was attending community college back home it was in a town with alot of older people. I worked so I was only able to take night classes so most of the people in my classes were alot older than me. Being at the University of Central Florida and living in this town has given me the oppurtunity to meet so many different amazing people. I have made friendships that will last a lifetime. Also there are so many different clubs to join on campus that not only provide you with meeting new friends but also to network with large companies that gives me the chance of lining up opportunites for my future career. I do not know what I would do without this experiance, it has been the best time of my life. I actually enjoy going to class and learning everything, it is beyond life changing.

My college experience has been acceptingly well. I've learn that it 's always better to think ahead of time when registering for classes because sometimes you wont get the time or day you want your class to be on or u probably wont register in time. Its also good to create good relationships with your professors and staff so it would allow you to get what you need and want out of your whole college experience. However, besides just goin to classes prepare to learn college has it values. From learnin in the class rooms to learnin out side of the class rooms. The people you meet, if not everyday, will be teaching you things and you wont recognize it. Whether they're good or bad habits by attending this college im also learning from the people around me.

Thus far, my college experience has exceeded my expectations. I have been able to absorb so much knowledge from my professors and build friendships that will last a lifetime, as well as develop interpersonal skills that will help me throughout my career and general life. The melting pot that is my college has suceeded in exposing me to many different cultures and beliefs that I feel have given me a better understanding of our world today. College is perfecting my skill set, such as organization, timeliness, dedication and diligence. I feel as though my college experience as a whole is shaping me into a more well-rounded individual. I also believe that it helping me become the very best option an employer could ask for. I am becoming a better competitor in my job field, so that upon graduation I will be able to join a company that will allow me to make a positive impact on my community. UCF is giving me the tools I will use to help others, and hopefully inspire them to maximize their potential as well.

I wouldn't be able to fully explain what I've gotten out of college in merely 200 words because there's been an infinite amount of things I have learned. First, I learned all about Greek Life and even became one of them! I also learned that you actually have to study to succeed in college-- not just those night-before cramming ones. Smoothies became my best friend when time wasn't on my side, going from class to class. I truly learned the value of a dollar. This semester, my first real job showed me what it felt like to make your own money, and that it doesn't last forever! I also obtained my first debit card, which revealed a great deal of the electronic, monetary world. One of the best lessons I learned was time management. Because of this new freedom, unlike high school, I had to plan out every day, especially because I'm a commuter. All of this, or at least ninety-five percent of it, will come useful when I go into the "real world." Somehow it already feels like the real world, or something very close to it.

While this school wasn't a perfect fit for me, I have worked hard to get what I can from the experience. Because staying out of debt of important to me, UCF has been valuable because it is very kind to my wallet. I have learned many life skills--some including: how to find a really good parking spot on a crowded campus, how to build strong relationships with my peers, how to explore different cultures in my local area, and that hard work really does pay off. Through UCF, I have seen a really intricate tapestry of interests and how students are capable of excelling in not the best of circumstances. I have found a major that lets me pursue what I love—Creative Writing and I know that I will use so many of my UCF experiences in my future works.

My college experience has been quite a challenge at times, but entirely insightful at the least. Beginning my junior year in high school I began attending college classes with the intention of graduating with no less then a bachelors degree. The challenge began like every other students, with a simple yet complex question, "What is it that I want to become and accomplish in my life?". I began my quest with an associates of arts degree, graduating just after high school. Now I am faced with a more difficult task of declaring my major and finding my pathway into the professional field. Helping others is a very important aspect to my career choice as well as a driving force of encouragement. Without the help and love of others I would not be who I am today. I plan on attending college as long as I can afford to do so, with the goal of obtaining a degree in the biological field. College has helped me gain incredible knowledge about science and the advancements taking place day to day. I would love nothing more then to be part of these advancements and make my mark on humanity. Thank you.

I believe I have gotten a lot out of my college experience. I have learned to become a more responsible, organized, independent young woman. When I graduate, I will look back at my four years and cherish them. The “job world” is waiting for me, and I value the knowledge this university has given to me to be confident to enter the “job world” knowing I will be able to make a difference to someone. It has been valuable that I attend this university because I could not imagine being anywhere else. This university has given me many opportunities to try things that I would have never thought I would ever been able to do. I have concluded that it is ok to make mistakes as long as you learn from them and try not to do it again.

The main benifit I believe I have gotten out of my college experience would be maturing from a kid to an adult an dealing with real life responsibility. I must admit it has definetly been a struggle at times with money, food, gas, ect. but I feel all that has made me believe more in myself and to never give up. This semester will be tough because I'll have to work full time to afford school, but I'm willing to do whatever I have to do to continue striding for my goals in Criminal Justice. Quitting is not an option.

The 2 years I have been in college have taught me a great deal. College is difficult, there's no getting around that. When you accomplish something that you never thought possible, such as passing a very difficult class, the feeling is spectacular. On the other hand, the information we acquire and the people we meet change our lives forever. The classes I am taking are helping me develop a sense of the field I wish to get into when I graduate, and I am forming networking connections with upperclassmen in my field, so if I ever hit a rough spot, I have mentors to help me. Attending college was a wonderful decision to make, and I would never change it for anything in the world. The experiences I've had, the people I've met, and the things I have learned will undoubtedly help me in the future, and that is the most valuable piece of information yet.

I decided to go back to school at the age of 40. I have been it the real estate industry for many years but this was just not where I wanted to be for the rest of my life. I attended some college immediately following high school in the mid 80's but life just got in the way. Since that time I kept telling myself that "someday" I would go back and finish. As the years quickly flew by my husband and children began to encourage me to follow that dream. For financial and geographic reasons I chose to attend Lake Sumter Community College in 2007. I graduated with my AA in the Spring of 2010 with honors, Phi Theta Kappa and Magna Cume Laude at age 43. Community college also allowed me to get caught up on the basics as I had not seen the inside of a classroom in more than 20 years. I have since transferred to the University of Central Florida studying anthropology and I'm loving it! I intend to continue through to my master’s degree and with a little financial assistance my true dream is a PHD! Thank you for your consideration!

I have been working in Construction and Project Management for over ten years. I have been attending school part-time to complete a BS in Electrical Engineering. My college experience has enabled me to learn and understand the fundamentals of physics and engineering. When I complete my college experience, there will be many opportunities which will become available for me to succeed and grow in my career. I am a single mother and I try to show my 5 year old son the importance of finishing collge and the hard work that it takes to accomplish your goals and dreams. This experience will give me the opportunity to be a better provider for my son.

Through my attendance of college later in life, I appreciate the experience more. I have worked several jobs, through which I have gained valuable work experience. It is a fact that a person is granted many more job opportunities with an education. I enjoy the privilege of expanding my mind. A college education helps a person to become more knowledgable, in addition to aiding critical thinking skills. The attendance of college has the tendency to produce a rounded individual. It requires an individual to think in depth, in addition to advancing analytical skills. Learning keeps your mind active and traveling to different destinations. It is better to use your mind, than to waste it. A college education is valuable to one's life experience.

Being a student at the University of Central Florida has enabled me to decide what I want to do in life. I have been allowed to take many different classes, which has enabled me to select a major in biology and a minor in environmental science. I have gotten a sense of purpose in this world, which is to eventually become a veterinarian. If I didn't attend the University of Central Florida, I would not have been able to make these life decisions.

My college experience was an exciting one. Even though I had to take a medical leave of absence two semesters in a row, I am still determined to go back. and finish my education to gain job stability in this economic downfall. College is very valuable to attend because there are not many high paying jobs available these days for people without an education. An education is important to prepare people for the world. I am looking forward to hopefully attending college this month and finishing my education. I want to make all my dreams come true and be a helpful part of the world with my choice in pursuing a career in the medical field.

When a high school senior thinks about college, they only imagine the vague; studying,freedom,fun. Sure, my college experience has consisted of all those things, but it gets much deeper than that. College allowed me to discover who I was, and where I'm supposed to stand in this world. It taught me to make connections, humble myself, and be open minded to all cultures and beliefs. It taught me the importance of responsibility and priority. My school is the second largest populated school in the nation, and I couldn't be prouder because it exposes me to first hand diversity. These are all valuable traits that one can't experience staying at home or being sheltered. Sometimes you need to be taken out of your element, you need to struggle making friends, you need to get cold feet before an interview, and you need to hold your tongue in a disagreement in order to grow as an individual.College has taught me what some people will never have the opportunity to learn; self worth, self respect, responsibility, and that the world is a lot more understanding than we give it credit for,we should embrace it.

What I have gotten from my college experience is, finally finding out what I really want to do as a career. Going into college, I thought I wanted to be a Graphic Designer because everyone told me I was good at it. But after taking some courses on it, I realized it's not what I really want to do. I started looking at other majors and thought about how much I love being around children, which made me realize I'd be great as an elementary teacher. Realizing that has been the most valuable thing to me since attending college. And I'm happier than ever that going to college helped me realize sooner, rather than later, what I really want to do as a career.

From my college experience I have learned to tolerate others and appreciate them and their cultures and upbringings. Being that this is America, a major melting pot in the world, UCF is sort of like an exposure to the real world beyond the degree.

College has been a great experience for me because my program has given me a lot of opportunities to have interactive experiences with a classroom. As an elementary education major, it is important that I have the opportunity to see real life classrooms as models for what I need to prepare for when I have my own classroom. I feel like the teach me virtual lab has given me a unique experience to try out some teaching methods with student avatars. College has helped me a lot with providing different opportunities to see things from different perspectives. There is no one correct way to teach and I love having the opportunity to see how other future educators might approach different situations. By attending a school with over 50,000 students, there is a very diverse student population and I learn a lot from hearing about others' personal experiences. I also feel like my college has given me a lot of opportunities to see how the things I am learning in my college classes can be implemented in a real classroom environment.

My college experience has allowed me to learn to live on my own while balancing school, work, and extra cirriculars. I have met dozens of professionals in my future career and have been offered opportunities to not only help my community but also further my learning experience.

This past year at UCF has been life changing for me! I did not have the opportunity to attend a university in the past and decided to go back to school at twenty-eight years old for my Teaching degree. There were many people that thought it was a bad decision for me to return to school and that it would be near impossible. I found it to be anything but that! I am finally enjoying the real "college experience". Each semester I find myself more inspired than the last, on this quest for knowledge and success. The success I seek is so much more than a degree, it is the opportunity to learn about the world and people around me. My professors and classes have been challenging. This has helped prepare me for my future career but it has also developed me into a worldly, independent, and scholarly individual. Knowledge is a lifelong pursuit, of which we all benefit from. I think Albert Einstein put it best by saying, “Intellectual growth should commence at birth and cease only at death”.

My college experience of going to school is to set my dream goal of what interest me and fits my skills. So I could be able to achieve what I want to become a nurse in my future. Attending school makes me a very successful person because with my education I'm able to learn what I have not know and gain more knowledge in education, major, and life. My education makes me proud of myself that I have self confidence for the goal I set to accomplish. School is very valuable to attend by making the impossible things in life to become possible for a better future of mine. Also going to school, I can achieve in my studies and have a strong connection with students, professors, support services, and counselors. My education is very important for my life in the future because by achieving my major, it's not only that I can support myself; I have the chance to help the communities as well. The experience of school can be very challenging, yet most importantly to be a successful college student is attending school on time by using time wisely and responsibilities.

The University of Central Florida was not my first choice of schools. I had wanted to go to UF, but didn't get accepted, and I'm happy I didn't because UCF has opened many doors for me. I came in bewildered. I knew from having some experience of taking care of my aging grandparents that I wanted to care for people, so my first major was nursing. Through meetings, volunteer opportunities at Cora Rehab, and the help of a few friends I have decided to go into physical therapy. While at UCF, I have had the opportunitiy to volunteer through organizations for the Susan G. Komen, and Make a Wish foundation. I have also joined the Pre-professional club, and have had the chance to meet students who share the same interests as myself. Sports and fitness have been a key part of my life, so coming to UCF I have gotten involved in intramural flag football, soccer, and volleyball. I have also been fortunate enough to land a part time work study job through FAFSA at the Women's studies department to make a little bit of money, but no longer have that job.

As a first time student at a university I have gained a lot. I must say my first semester in college was amazing. Besides the fact that I am studying in order to obtain a degree in high level education, I have grown as an individual. Before coming to college i didnt know what living with a roomate was like how to deal with having someone in the same room as you everyday. I have learned to manage my time better. College is fast pased and there's no time for fooling around like in high school. You are there to succeed and study. I have learned to put my needs before my wants. Also I have become more social. With so many people attending at a college I have become more friendly and learned to deal with other much better. Overall I have gained much from my first semester at UCF and hope to gain more.

My college experience has made me a better person. I have taken from my college experience thus far is responsibility for my own self. I have learned to be a completely independant person. In college I do not have my parents hovering over my shoulders like I did in high school to keep me on tract. College is a different ball game I had to adjust to. I have learned to push myself and become the mature and responsible adult I always knew I could be. Without my college experiences I wouldn't have been able to grow as a person. College is often viewed as a time of self discovery and that's exactly what it has been for me. When I go forth in my life and towards a professional career I will be able to know what I want since I found out who I was in college as well as handle my responsibilities on my own without any help. My college experience is just getting starting and I can't wait to see what else my college journey has in store for me.

As a timid high school graduate approaching a whole new world, a much larger world, I was petrified, but inwardly ecstatic. I couldn't wait to be away from home and so to speak "discover myself". Well, I can truly say that not only am I on the path to discovery, I have also discovered many things about life in general. It was always so easy being taken care of, and having someone to rely on. Once I was thrown into the college world I found that I had to learn to take care of myself, which wasn't so easy at first, but was ultimately gratifying in the long run. I've also learned at college that being your own person isn't looked down upon as it sometimes is in high school. I remember being judged the second I walked through my high school's doors. Now, being an individual is a necessity, especially when you are surrounded by 50,000 other students trying to do the same thing! College has changed me into a much more confident person, who is independent and brave, and willing to stand up to the world and make a difference.

In the time I have been in college, I have learned the meaning of the word “courage”. I have been out of school for over 20 years and never thought I would have the opportunity to return. I know what my education means for my future, as well as my family’s future. We have struggled for the past 15 years with never-ending bills, searching for creative ways to make ends meet, and just surviving paycheck to paycheck. I have two girls who watch me and their father scrape by on a whisper and a prayer to put food on the table and clothes on their backs. I want better for them. I decided to return to college because I wanted to show them the value of a good education. I needed to teach them the value of learning and seeking their future. As I walk into class each day, I find the courage to learn, the confidence to ask questions and the strength to challenge myself to work towards a future that looks bright and strong. I look at my girls and know that they will see how their future will look by going to college.

Being at the University of Central Florida has taught me that in order to gain the respect you want, you must be respectful. If you want to be an adult, start acting more grown-up; being in a university does not mean it is play time all the time. I’ve learned through my experiences at college that it’s actually very cool to be educated and not to be so childish anymore. Yes, being silly and being able to look at life’s stressors with a sense of humor is always important, but to do so maturely is now equally important. We’re out of high school; we’re through living with our families (for the most part) and now its time to learn to be a functioning adult. Its time to learn to live on your own and to deal with the punches as Life deals them out, because as history has shown us, Life is a pretty relentless fellow. I want, by the end of my college experience, to be able to relfect on my time and feel as though I've become accomplished, as though I am prepared for the big scary real world out there.

The most important thing that I've received out of my college experience so far is that you won't be able to get anywhere in life without some kind of college degree. With all of the new technology that's coming out in the world and the jobs that are being created to keep up with that technology, its almost a necessity to have a college degree in order to keep those jobs filled and have the technology keep growing everyday. It seems like whenever I go somewhere and I see people who decided to drop out of school live life the way they want to and not listen to advice people give them, it makes me wonder what my life would be like if I decided to drop out of high school and not pursue a college degree. The reason why I actually decided to pursue a college degree is my brothers and sister who actually finished high school and college. Looking at them and what they've accomplished so far is what is driving me to work as hard as I possibly can to finish college and get my bachelors degree, then start my own business.

My college experience has been different than the average student. My parents never went to college, so I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I went to the local community college after high school and literally had to learn everything there is to know about college myself. I made a few bad mistakes, and excelled more than I ever thought possible. From failing out of my first semester of classes, to being on the Presidents List my last two semesters at the college, I have impressed myself and succeeding more than I could have imagined. Having the chance to get my Associate's Degree and transfer to a University has really helped me learn and make mistakes at a smaller school. Now that I will be starting my first semester at the University, I feel extremely prepared and have the self esteem to continue learning and prospering in school. I am so proud of myself for doing this myself and doing it so well. I can't wait to get my Bachelor's and continue on to Graduate school.

As a first generation college student, I know the importance of continuing my education. My mother never got the opportunity to graduate from high school in El Salvador. Instead, she had to put her studies aside to help raise and care for her several siblings. As a single parent who has raised two children, my older brother and I, I am fully aware of the hard work and sacrifices my mother has had to endure. Like my mother, my father also did not graduate high school. By attending college, I have gotten the opportunity that many people do not have, that my parents did not have, to experience higher education. As a child, I knew I would go to college not only because I owed it to myself but to my mother as well. I always knew that continuing my education would lead me to a future where I can give back and help others obtain the same, or even greater, opportunities that I have had. Being able to attend college has been a valuable opportunity because I have this constant appetite for learning which I am happy to keep satisfying with diverse, and challenging but rewarding, college academics.

I have gotten alot out of my college experience, ive learned about stuff i thought i would never be able to understand, but the instructors instructed well and i hung threw it. im learning more and more every week, and its teaching me how to be a responsible young man. Its valuable for me to attend college because its the only way im going to be able to make a living. I come from a poor child hood and im still curently poor, so by me attending school every week brightens my eyes because i know someday i will be somthing. No mader how bad it gets or how long it takes i will continue attending school.

I have been at the University of Central Florida for two semesters and the experiences that I have gone through taught me a few things. For example, volunteering on campus has taught me to respect the community that I live in. Another experience was academic values. Attending class everyday and studying the material has prepared me for test and finals. Recieving good grades on these test showed me that it is valuable to learn and further my education.

College has been and still is an extraordinary experience; it has taught me many things some of which is difficult to put into words. First and foremost college gives you a sense of direction for your future, it allows you to explore opportunities through internships, clubs, and other similar activities that truly allow one to examine a career path and choose what will make you happy. If there was only one reason to go to college, that would be it; hope for the future. Aside from that and the obvious education to attain your desired career, college is a great social experience. We are social creatures after all and college provides an atmosphere to learn, share, and socialize with people from almost every walk of life. It is from these experiences that we can gain the confidence needed to go out into the workforce and network and use our socializing skills to attain our goals and help others attain theirs as well. All in all I would say college encourages people to help people.

I have learned many things from college life. I have learned how to be asertive and to get what you want by working hard for it. I have also learned how to actually stand up for myself in the world and how to make my mark in it.

Throughout my college experience I have gained respect, motivation, and compassion for my career goals. I truly respect every student young or old that strive to continue their education. Most of us have to work hard in school and at a job; which is very difficult. Education in this century is very important. A high school diploma can no longer secure a career in this lifetime. Other than my family; my educational goals are my top priority. I plan to work hard and complete my education despite the loss of income because of my school schedule or how long it will take me to complete my degree. My major is visual arts; something I am truly compassionate about. Art is a natural talent of mine and working on a degree in that field has always been my dream. Above all everyone as a student has to be seriously motivated to go to college and succeed. Many of us attend college but do not succeed because of their priorities. Motivation is the key to success and success is the key to power. I encourage all of the students and children to work hard and focus in school. Dont give up!

There are many skills that I’ve acquired via my college experience, both at the community college level and at the university level. My college experience has afforded me wonderful contacts for future job propositions, great friends, and endless life skills. However, time management and financial management are the two crucial skills that college has forced me to establish and constantly improve on. I’ve found that properly managing your time and money eliminates a profound amount of stress that most college students unfortunately possess. Once your stress level is consistently low, it is easier to maintain a healthy GPA and social life. My current GPA at UCF is a 4.0, a large step up from my community college GPA. Fresh out of high school with little independence, I struggled to balance my social, work, and school life. Time and money were constant burdens that stalked me as I slept. Now that I’ve grown in these areas, college and work are places I enjoy being rather than places that consume my mental and physical energy. It is to my college experience that I owe for my maturity in nearly all aspects of my life.

Attending UCF is has value way above the education in the classroom. Myself is very involved on campus and everything I do I gain a great deal of real life experience from it. I am the Executive Vice President for my business fraternity. In this position I have learned how to utilize 100 people as much as possible to complete all objectives. I am a senator for SGA and the college of business. I've learned a lot about my college and the resources it has to offer holding this position. You also learn how to be a leader and take on a $17 million budget responsibility. I have also started my own organization called the BA Team. Doing this I have learned my people skills and relaying a vision to my members. This school has so many opportunities due to its diverse culture and massive size. There is every type of person from every type of background here so impossible is nothing here. Most of my accomplishments and internships have come from what I know outside of the classroom not inside, even though academically we are ranked number 1 for return on investment for students who have graduated!

I may be small, but I am not a caterpillar. I do not live in a forest, and I do not squiggle and squirm from place to place. I have my good ol' Ford for that. When I first began college, however, I felt like a caterpillar. A caterpillar waiting, waiting, waiting for that beautiful experience-Metamorphosis: A profound change in form from one stage of life to the next, as from the caterpillar to the pupa and from the pupa to the butterfly. If there is anything that I have gained from my personal college experience it is that-A remarkable shift in my journey. From the very beginning of my education I have done everything right... In kindergarten I colored neatly in the lines of each picture I was given. In junior high I managed to read most of "The Odyssey", and in high school I diligently studied for my SAT's until I was sure I could answer each question confidently. College has changed all of that for me. Every minute spent in the classroom has set in motion my metamorphosis, and shifted me from a measly caterpillar to an independent student in hopes of sprouting wings.

Out of this college experience I've gotten many things from it, but one that I think is of most importance is responsibility. In high school you have certain school hours, but once in college you get to pick your own times. Apart from choosing your class times you get to decide if you attend or not. This takes the responsibility into my hands because I, myself, have to weigh the options of going to class versus not going to class. I have to learn to make the correct choice that will get me farther into finishing my education. Also, I’ve learned not to procrastinate as much. When in high school I used to procrastinate a lot. Now, I’ve learned to make fake deadlines, that way I finish some things faster. One last thing I’ve gotten out of my first year is time managing, not just with classes, but with family and friend times as well. I set times for studying which I try and do first because that way I know I will get more friend/family time.

The idea from college that I have gained and worked for the most is confidence. High school I was simply extremely lazy, not saying that I did not make good grades, participate in sports or leadership classes but I personally could have put in a lot more than just doing the norm and making it by. So the thing is have most appreciate about college is giving myself self - confidence and going outside of the box and finding who you are. Making new friends and being a leader to solve problems for you and your team mates in class. Without college I am pretty sure I would be the same lazy kid from high school, with college I can be whoever I want and do the things that make me happy and not worry about my peers from high school judging me and worrying about my popularity status.

Attending UCF has given me confidence in my ability to use my college experience in my job allowing me to better understand the fundamentals of accounting and the rules and regulations behind it. I currently work in a small accounting firm; going to school has helped me become a better and more productive employee. I am confident in my ability to do my job and share my knowledge effectively to other coworkers. For example, I just completed a test regarding bad debt expense. With my knowledge from class I was able to explain to a coworker the best way to handle this expense and how it affects the income statement. Working in the field I am going to school in helps me correlate what I learn in class to what I do and how I perform at work.

What I have gotten out of my college experience, so far, is of course, a very awarding education. I have learned a lot so far, and have gained a greater appreciation for higher level learning. I have also made quite a few life long friends and contacts for my future career. Attending college has been valuable to me in that it has directed and guided me towards figuring out what I want to do career wise. I thought that I knew what I wanted to do, but because of taking particular courses and talking to peers and advisors, I have confidentlly changed my career path, and now feel more comforatble going into my future.

College has been one of the most exciting events of my life. So far I have to changed dynamically socially and intelligently. I feel that my own personal growth of knowledge is something that money could not measure. I have learend many things career orientated that will help me suceed in life. As I have also learned many things about life in general that will support my own general well-being. I believe UCF is a lot to thank for all of this. The faculty and staff there have been very supportive of me throughout my years of learning and I feel I have become a much more successful human being because of them. I would recommend this school to anyone interested.