University of Central Florida Top Questions

A family member once told me that an eduaction is the best investment you can make. At first I was a bit skeptical of this point of view, but now I understand fully where they were coming from. College has made me realize that virtually anything is possible if you put your mind to it. I never really believed in that concept until I started making A's in college classes. I have learned that succeeding in college does not come easy and that it does takes a lot of hard work. I have become a more responsible, well rounded, adult who can manage their time and money very responsibly. Less than a year ago, if you were to ask me why I wanted to go to college, I would have probably said "so I can get a good job, and make a lot of money." Thanks to one of my professors, I now know that a university is not just for providing you with good job opportunities, but more importantly, a university is here to provide you with information that will educate you to become a well rounded individual who can formulate ideas and opinions and educate others.

The University of Central Florida stands for opportunity and this is one thing that I have experienced as a college student in my academic career. Immediately after my acceptance to UCF I was admitted into the LEAD Scholars Program which provided me opportunities to learn about programs on campus and to become involved in the campus community. As a student at UCF, I was provided the keys necessary for success academically and socially. As a Molecular and Microbiology Major and a full time student, I have been provided with enough support and free tutoring to help me maintain my 3.81 GPA. But I have also been provided with the opportunities to get involved. Volunteering is my passion and I have been able to take full advantage of the opportunities provided in the community by becoming the director of Health for Volunteer UCF. My experience at college and the skills I have obtained are worth more than a degree. These are the skills that make me who I am and the person I want to be in this world.

I have gotten many things out of my college experience. I was the typical student is high school that had to have everything perfect and I only socialized with the same people. I was afraid to come to such a big school and be independent; I was always attached to my mother and never did anything by myself. I decided to just try it and see what this university had to offer. To be honest, it has been the best experience of my life. I have met many people from different backgrounds who share the same interest as me. I have attended many events on campus and I have gone to many concerts of famous celebrities, which I would have never gone to. I know that all my hard work is going to pay off in the end and once I graduate, I know that I would be able to find a good job that fulfills my needs.

My college experience has been a blessing and I do not take it for granted. Everyday I take advantage of what the University of Central Florida offers. So far I have faced challenges that were difficult but I was able to overcome them with the help and support of my family, friends and professors. I have become a more open-minded, wiser and more intelligent human being. I come across many people who take going to college for granted and they lose their scholarships and financial aid. I could never imagine doing that as I take my education seriously and I do everything I can to succeed in life. My college career so far has been valuable to me because I am the first person in my family to attend college and I have a strong desire to better myself as well as reaching my goals. My goal in life is to become a Speech Therapist. Growing up my brother had a speech problem and from his difficult situations and being bullied, I wanted to help people like him. One day I will become a Speech Therapist and I have my motivation and the University of Central Florida to thank.

College has not only given me the knowledge to be succesful in the real world, but it as changed me as a person as well. I look at life differently now than when I started college. UCF has brought me courage, hope, and knowledge that know one can take away from me. I have gained something here at UCF that I am very thankful for. I keep learning new and excited things, and apply them to real world situations. The UCF facility has given me strength in every aspect. Ive learned leadership, accounting, finance, management, so many things that I believe in. They have helped understand how the real world business works. Im very thank ful to be able to attend such a succesful university. They have not only been a great school to attend, but they have changed me as a person as well.

I have gotten a wonderful learning exprience and an excellent education. It is valuable for me to attend so that i am able to pursue my future in computer engineering and become successful in what i love to do.

I am doing my college classes online so I have learned so much self discipline from being in college. I am much better at my time management now and have learned how to proiritize my life. Many students choose to leave home and go away for college, but since I am paying for school out of my own pocket I chose to live at home and work while attending school. These days a high school diploma will not get you into many good jobs which is why it is so important to attend college and further your education. I was always taught that knowledge is power and I fully intend to learn as much as I possibly can during my college career.

My college experience has been a long-winding road that to this stay I still am walking down. I am a connoisseur of knowledge and of the very setting of academic and university living. I love being surrounded by classes, other students, the books, the quaint coffee shops and dining halls. It's like being in my own private world where I am able to focus on the things that are important to me (education, inner peace) while maintaining a community of people with similar interests and goals that foster a comraderie that I find unparalleled when compared to any other setting. To others, the university setting is a deterrent to them, as they prefer smaller, isolated settings where they do not have to interact with others, but for me the atmosphere of a living breathing universe inside of a large university makes me feel safe and secure. What have I gotten out of my college experience? A lifetime worth of memories and good times, two degrees- one in liberal arts, one in social science, graduate school in the future, and also friends to share the rest of my life with. Nothing could be more valuable to me.

My college experience has drastically changed my view of the world, I believe for the better and that is what I feel like I've gotten out of my experience. In the Humanities program I have been taught to view things more objectively and critically, not taking things at face value without question. My mind and worldview has opened up to appreciate many other different points of view and understand how they each come to be as well as how they are relevant to whoever holds them. This kind of learning has given me the ability to better interact with people of all walks of life as well as more confident in my own abilities to question and critically reflect on the experiences I've been through in my undergraduate career.

UCF has had a huge impact on my life. Before attending this college, I was a very quiet and shy person. However, now I am much more outgoing; group projects, extra curricular activities, presentations, and supportive students and staff have helped me to become more confident and find my voice. Through my major's department, I have been exposed to many resources that will help me with my career once I graduate. I have met well-known people that have been successful in the field in which I wish to work, and I have spoken to UCF alumni that not only have the same goal as me, but also have already started down the same path that I have planned for myself. These experiences helped me to better plan my future, and have informed me of what to expect after graduation. I have made great friends and contacts at this school, and the sense of pride and school spirit in every UCF student has made me feel as though I belong. My experience at UCF has helped me to become a better person, improve my goals, and feel like part of a community.

My college experience has taught me I truly can achieve my dreams, whatever they may be. A statement that seems so cliche has actually proved itself to be true through my college experiences. Originally from Chicago, financially and logistically, attending UCF was a stretch, but through hard work I achieved my goal. Without knowing one person, I was successfully able to make friends, and build relationships that will last a lifetime. College has presented me with the opportunity to try new, fun things such as rock climbing, wakeboarding, and surfing. As a club member of all three sports, I have proved to myself that nothing is too extreme to achieve if you put your mind to it. The intensity of my classes was also a big change, and I found myself panicking when it came time for my chemistry final. However, through tutoring sessions, reading the book, and about 10 hours of studying, I achieved the A in the class I so badly desired. I have only been in attendance at the University of Central Florida for one semester now, but the experiences I have encountered are valuable enough to last me a lifetime.

Attending college has been a fantastic experience for me. I work hard at my studies and I have a fun time doing it. I have learned so many things since I began my college career. I have learned lessons on leadership from serving as the president of an honors society and working as a trip leader for my college’s Outdoor Adventure program. I have also learned about other cultures while studying abroad in Europe over a summer and I have enhanced my communication skills. However, I would say that the most important thing that I have taken away from my college experience is the ability to make a positive difference in my community and the world through volunteering with several organizations. One of my favorite things to do is to volunteer at the local hospital and talk with patients who have no one to talk to, or go to the downtown park and feed the homeless. Were it not for my college experience, I would not have discovered my love to volunteer and help people. To me, college is valuable because of the knowledge gained from classes, but especially because of the lessons learned outside of the classroom.

It has given me the ultimate education. Not just academic, although that is a big part, but so many life leasons that if learned anywhere else could have been detrimental. Its kind of been like training wheels for the "real world".

My college experience has provided me with many experiences that have shaped the person that I am today and the type of employee I will be one day in the future. I have learned to work well with others throughout the many group projects I have participated in during my time in the College of Business and the diversity at UCF has exposed me to many different types of people from various backgrounds which will be useful in a diverse workforce. I have also learned a variety of strategic thinking and real world skills. Living on my own throughout college has allowed me to grow into an independent individual and has taught me how to be a self-sufficient adult. My employment experiences throughout college have also been valuable because they have forced me to learn to balance many tasks at once without compromising quality in either school or work. Overall, my experiences at the University of Central Florida have made me a better, more mature individual as well an asset to any company that will hire me in the future.

Attending college later in life has given me a renewed sense of purpose. I have had great job opportunities which include the military, but college has always been my ultimate goal. It took me some time over the years to narrow down something I could be passionate about and it ultimately came down to Psychology. I am finally in my junior year and taking the classes that pertain to my degree. It's funny, at the age of 18, I would have found the material boring and irrelevant, but with all my life experiences I am now intrigued about how the mind functions and why we do what we do as humans. I love learning from my professors and how they have achieved their academic and career milestones. It gives my the inspiration to continue and know that I will also be there one day. To me college is not just a piece of paper, but a reflection of my character and how I strive to always learn and be better.

While attending college I've come to the realization that it's a true eye opener. college has allowed me to experience great things, but what is most important to me that i've recieved is better time management and better choices. I can honestly admit to myself that I had poor time management before I attened college. Due to my poor time management it affected my judgement skills which prohibited me from making good choices. After my very first semester im proud to say that college has reshaped that apsect of my life becuase without it I would've fallen apart. Due to my college experience I can now fluctuate with ease between school, work, and fun. This is why attending college is valuable. Its more than just getting your degree, its about taking all the teachings you've aquired and combining them in such a fashion that allows you to put your mind in ten different places at once without breaking a sweat. Its sad to say that college isn't for everyone, but I know its for me, and im glad to know that I made the right choice in furthering my education by attending college.

My college experience has by far been the best experience of my life. Each year has been a stepping stool in my growth to become the woman I am today. My freshman year was my first year on my own. It really taught me how to be independent and responsible. I had to cook for myself, clean for myself, motivate myself to get up every morning for my classes and even to make the choice to study instead of going out. Sophomore year was the year I learned to take initiative in order to get things that I wanted. I learned how to apply for jobs, volunteer opportunities and even internships. I was beginning to learn that if I wanted something, I had to go out and get it myself. Now in my junior year, I have an internship, I am taking 6 classes, I'm about to start a job with a catering company and I joined a sorority and received the honor of being Event Planning chair. I am learning to art of balancing and I am loving every minute. My college experience has been so valuable and I hope to receive this scholarship to continue my journey.

Making the decision to attend college was the best decision I made. I have met different people from all over the world. One of main things I learn about college is no one is there to make you go to class or make you get up. College have taught me a lot of lessons that I will use in everyday life. Attending a small school and going to college was a major culture shock for me. I'm taking a look around and I see more people then there is in our entire school district. I have learned and seen things that I did not know exist. College has open my eye to new things and new people. I also have learned that you do not wait for the teacher to assign something you get ahead of the teacher so you will not be lost in class. I am glad that I took the time out and made the right decision to go to college because there are some things that you will learn unless you attend college.

I never really understood why people always said "College were the best years of my life." After my first year at University of Central Florida, I realized that these are incredible years that we should take full advantage of. Although some people might refer to the social aspect I am refering to the incredible amount of opportunites that one can have during a college experience. We are not only able to meet and learn about people from different cultrues and countries but also explore them as well through study abroad. You are able to learn new things not only through a textbook, but also through research and professors who have had hands on experience with that field. You are not only able to work but have a choice of internationally renowned companies to choose from. College lets you explore in so many ways that the "real world" will never let you do. I am lucky to have already expeienced many of these aspects of college and I hope to experience more. It is valuable to attend because you will learn in so many different ways that you never knew.

Before I attended UCF, I was always a follower who didn't contribute to the process. Throughout my time here, I have truly developed into a leader who meaningfully contributes to my campus. I have taken advantage of all the leadership, community, and academic opportunities possible by actively participating. I have become involved as an officer in over 10 organizations, including our President's Leadership Council, Golden Key International Honour Society, and Collegiate DECA, which I never would have been able to accomplish without the confidence I've gained while at UCF. I authored my undergraduate thesis in home health care marketing, something so unique that UCF faculty gave me the skills to participate in. UCF has helped me grow up and become the future business leader I've always wanted to be, and I would recommend the experience to anyone who asks me. Being actively involved as a leader on campus has changed my life, and I hope that this recommendation will convince others that they could have the same wonderful experience as a UCF Knight!

My college experience so far has really opened up a door way of self-discovery and I have learned a lot about the type of person I am and who I want to become. With new surroundings and responsibilities I have seen myself grow as a person and accept new challenges that come my way with confidence. I have learned to balance both the academic and social aspects of attending college, and I have learned the importance of making the right decisions and chosing your priorities carefully. It has been valuable for me to attend college because i know it will open so many doors for me in the future when it comes to a career. Also, the friendships I have aquired I know will last beyond college and the guidence and lessons I have recieved from my professors will help me in all areas of my life. I believe an education is important for everyone to have and I also believe that everyone should have the opportunity to attend college no matter their financial status.

Just like to Bible says in that the man will leave his parents and cleave unto his wife, I've gotten just that excluding the wife part. But i'm learning to survive and to live and that's really all there is to know and being in college does just that with all the joys and sorrows that come with it. Other than that, pretty much just debt, stress, and loss of sleep yet overlooking that to one day experience a better future for hopefully someday my wife and kids.

As a first generation college student within my immediate family, I have definately received tons of valuable information/lessons that are unattainable elsewhere, and being that I plan to remain enrolled, I'm still gaining more! What I've gotten so far are a few true friendships, completion of several well-needed courses in regards to my major, and beneficial suffering from obstacles, fortunately, in-turn serving as my "trial-and-error" learning sessions on life. However, the most important life value I've attained is the importance of receiving an eduacation! Daily, I witness students, ranging from young to old, that juggle work as well as classes in hectic attempts to conquer their lives, and it reminds me of my parents. I do not intend to offend my parents as they work hard, but they do lack a certain level of happiness. I am also noticing that happiness can/may intertwine with education level. Although still in school, I am very content with my life and credit a lucritive portion of that happiness to UCF. I'm not only learning at a level that my parents unfortunately did not reach, but I'm learning the steps to supercede them!

I have gotten the best exepriences out of college. I have studied real life cadavers, learned the physiology of arm movements. I have been able to debate other class members, and helped other students with several english papers. I learned to love math and have a better understanding of how to make complicated interest calculations simple. I have enjoyed learning from a Malaria expert and a professor that has the best stories about many travels to Africa and the health studies conducted there. I have learned about gram staining and was able to learn the differences of types of growth of bacterial colonies. It has been so valuable for me to attend an American University. Many years ago, my father brought us to this great country, in hopes that he could go to college here, as well as his kids. His dreams have come true. My dreams are also coming true, the closer I get to my Bachelor's degree. I am hopeful and know I can continue my education. My plan is to succeed. I know I can achieve my goals. I find my education very valuable, as it will help me in life ahead and in my future.

I have realized that my college experience has gone beyond textbook assignments, exams, group projects and and among other tasks pertaining to the crazy world of a college career. It also entails a journey of "finding yourself." Yep, I said it. We come to discover different facets of our personalities and traits. We come to know how determined we are and motivated to be part of a successful society we one day dream of contributing to. We also note that we become more aware of our surroundings because we are constantly reminded by the different events, organizations, clubs and so on that we must be environmentally friendly, we must continue to celebrate the legacy of important leaders, listen to guest speakers and so on and so forth. We learn all about how we as students will make this world go round with our future contributions as professionals and one day we will be responsible for the future well being of our communities. We learn this when we walk in and out of the classroom and into our campus community.

I have already received a Bachelor's degree in Education and had experience teaching for 2 years. I felt as though I was not making much of a difference at lease not to my fullest potential. I felt the need to spread my wings, to increase my influence. Nursing!!! I want to be a pediatric oncology nurse to give comfort and be an anchor to the families who hear the heartbreaking words "It's cancer." School starts this Friday for me and because of finances, I may not be able to attend. Nevertheless, I will not quit. I WILL move forward. I am looking not for my college to bring a valuable experience to me, but for me to bring a valuable experience to them. How? I will give of myself to do what needs to be done with joy.

An education is one of the most important things to have in life. With an education you can do anything you put your mind to. I just graduated with my Associates degree in Business Administration and plan to go on to culinary school. I believe that you should follow your dreams. I am a single mother who has a great passion to be a chef. I can take my education with me and use it to open my own restaurant one day.

My college experience has been amazing. This is only my second semester at the University of Central Florida, and I have gained priceless knowledge on how to achieve and be successful as a student and as a responsible adult. I have had the opportunity to meet some great people here and have acquired great friendships. I love the whole feel of socializing with peers that are goal-oriented like me, and even though we all have different backgrounds, we share a lot of the same values. I have joined two organizations on campus. One is Pre-Med AMSA and the other is Women's Prayer Band. Both have substantially contributed to my success in school as well as my social life. My experience so far has given me the motivation to work hard for my goal to get a degree in molecular/microbiology and continue my education in medical school. I love being a Knight at UCF, i wouldn't give a thought to transferring anywhere else and I enjoy living on campus. I know that my experience in the years to come will bring more wisdom, opportunities and happiness.

I've had a numerous amount of friends who decided to stay home and go to a community college but, I on the other hand chose to go to a University 2 1/2 hour away. I feel like being on my own taught me how to be independent and learn how to balance my time. I know when to spend time with friends and when to spend time doing school work. I had to independently ask about clubs and organizations around school and go to meetings by myself and make friends. I started off with only my friends from High School and now I have tons of new contacts in my phone and on facebook from UCF. I have learned diversity skills from UCF Seminars, I have attended crowded school spirited football games, I have volunteered at elementary schools, I have come closer to Chirst through our CCW Organization, I have played Intramural sports, I have learned to deal with rejection from school Associations, and I have became a stronger person. College is a very valuable lesson but UCF makes the journey worthwile.

Even though I have only been in university for less than a year, I have gotten so much out of my time here. I have met so many new, interesting and different people. I've learned how to live on my own and with people I've never met before. I've already made great friends who I know I will be friends with for a very long time. The learning is so much more grand than high school. It's so eye opening, and I've taken away more from my classes during the fall semester than I had in my senior year of high school. I am a theatre major, and I've learned so much about the technical, behind the scenes work. In high school I just performed, and since I've gotten here I've learned the basics of set building, electrics, and more. Its been such a valuable experience. I've learned quite a lot, yet there is still much more learning for me to do. I feel so blessed to be able to attend UCF. I just can't wait to grow throughout my upcoming years of college!

College changed me and made me view our society differently. It made me understand the world we live in and all the problems we face. My views changed about many things. I think college makes us grow up generally to a different level in all the aspects. I believe in this saying “you learn, you grow” and that is behind my goals every day. We need this growth in our society as whole.

So far what I have gotten out of my college experience is knowledge, family and independence. Even though I have just been here for one semester so far I feel that my knowledge has been greatly expanded. I had a chance to go back to my high school and teach some of what I learned. It was back at my high school where I was told that I have learn so much from when I had left till them. It gave me so much pride to be able to go back and give something to other students. Being at UCF and in the BFA stage management program I have gained a brand new family. In my freshman stage management class there are nine of us. We walk together, study together, workout together, etc. We will stand up for one another no matter what. I have also gained independence. I have learned how to manage my time better so I can get everything that I need to done.

I've matured and grown during my college year here at UCF more than I have during all my four years in high school. Living four hours away and being forced to meet new people--as well as meeting you first failed cooked meal--taught me that being on your own isn't as intimidating as younger students think. It hit me like a biology textbook to the face when I realized that I was an hour late to my first Biology test (scheduling mix ups and late night studying can do that to you) and ran with full force to my class. Those moments when I realize I'm on my own are both the most frightening yet the most freeing. I know what it's like to handle the rigors of college tests that make high school look like child's play, as well as the social freedom you must learn to attain or it will eventually attain you. This has been all too valuable for me and I wouldn't trade this semester for anything; you may not be able purchase life experience in a bottle but perhaps college is the closest way to accomplish that.

What I've gotten out of college was to study much harder than studying for high school. It's a fact that I've obtained a very high GPA out of high school, and it has assisted me very well while attending community college. However, it was in the university that I had to learn real quick that you have to study far harder than anything you've ever studied for in your life. Attending college is valuable because you would be studying for specific fields that would lead to significant careers like engineering, mechanics, electronics, and technology, careers in fields that helped changed the world in ways never imagined in the last century.

I am so grateful I have been given the opportunity to go to college unlike my parents because I have learned numerous lessons throughout my years in college. That being said, I would have to say the first thing I have gotten out of college is gratitude. After that I would say I have learned about diversity, going "green", budgeting, and most of all, UCF has taught me to be a leader and that is something I will take with me for the rest of my life. UCF has set the foundations for my future and taught me how to make goals. I think those are some of the main reasons why it has been very valuable to attend my University. I have also met some wonderful people throughout college and professors that I will never forget who go to all lengths to teach each individual student what they need to know.

I have gotten many learning experiences, whether it's from class or from working on campus but it is all real-life applicable. My college experience has been nothing but positive and has impacted me to be the best I can be. I believe I would not be the person I am today, who I am very satisfied being, if I went to a different school which shows how valuble being a Knight is to me. I love this school and encourage many friends and strangers to attend all the time. I am and will be a Knight forever.

I do feel like I learned a fair amount of industry knowledge in college, but by far the most important things I have learned is how to make things work. With this school, nothing will go as you plan, the classes will not be consistenly offered, and you will take longer to finish. There will be so many people graduating with the same degree you wont even know what to do. So what I have learned, and am trying to continue improving upon, is how to get ahead and get an edge. You have to learn to work harder, network, and seperate yourself from literally 1000s of students graduating with the same exact piece of paper from you or not only did it take you 5+ years to get through school since you went to U Cant Finish, but your degree is worthless.

In high school, I had no desire or interest whatsoever in choosing which college I was going to attend, unlike my peers. The daily chatter in the hallways consisted almost entirely of students' top choices and comparisons of this campus versus that one. My reason for applying, on the other hand, was because it was the "right thing to do"; to please my dad. I had no motivation to make my life better for myself; I just didn't see how college would do that for me. Here I am two years later, so absolutely thrilled for my future and the opportunities I now have because I chose to go to community college. I have learned so much in my classes, I find myself coming home to share the new pieces of information with my family, fascinated how everything has a connection to different facets of daily life. I cannot believe how instrumental college has been in my growth as a person. I have found areas of interest I am passionate about, such as child development, racial minorities and social issues, and nutrition, and aspire to mesh them in my future career. College truly has changed my life.

What I've gotten out of my college experience at the Univeristy of Central Florida is a feeling of accomplishment. I am a 28 year old woman currently in a deadend job, and for a long time, I thought I could never go back to school. I thought I would just have to live paycheck to paycheck, juggling children, a hsusband, and a home, with no opportunity to ever earn a degree. By means of online courses, UCF has made it very convenient for me to enroll in class and start up at my own pace. The advisors and instructors have been integral in helping me plan to reach my goals. I am left with a sense of pride and self-confidence, and hope for the future. And for that, this opportunity for higher education is TRULY invaluable to me.

Attending UCF has been an experience unlike any other for me, one I wouldn't give up for anything in the world. Studying here has broadened my horizens not only through coursework and instruction, but also the diverse microcosm that is our campus. When we say there's something for everyone, we mean it, and we strive to be inclusive of all who wish to join our collegiate family. UCF classes have helped me to conceptualize the world in ways I may have never been able to otherwise, while on-campus activities have challenged my precepts and prejuduces on a practical level. I've had conversations with people I never would have otherwise, and it has enriched my overall worldview. Thanks to this university and the people I've met here and the things I've learned, I feel prepared not only for my chosen career field, but also to step out into the world as a more mature and educated member of society. Of course, learning is a lifelong journey, but UCF has been a magnificent start.

From my college experience, I have learned that I can do anything that I set my mind to. In high school, I didn't have confidence in my academic ability, and it showed in my GPA. I graduated high school with a 2.2... I finished my first semester of college with a 3.0. It has been valuable for me to attend college because I have bettered myself as a person. I have become more educated, and with every class that I take I am more driven to succeed. I learned that I can do anything. Being the first in your family to finish college can sometimes be difficult, because already the pressure is high. My brother dropped out of college his freshman year, and because of this I am paying for college by myself. The debt that I've been accruing is enough to discourage me, but I press on. College has helped me be more confident in myself. Being outside of a judgmental high school setting has made me realize that I am valuable. My thoughts and opinions matter. With the help of this scholarship, I can finish school and become even better rounded.

From my college experience thus far I have gained a sense of confidence that I never had before. Attending the University of Central Florida has been extremely valuable for me by giving me a one of a kind education that is current and relevant to the times. I am certain that with my education, hard work and dedication, I will succeed in my professional life. Without college I would not have had the skills or confidence to move forward with such ease. I feel that so many doors have been opened for me and I am finally excited about my future, not scared. For the first time in my life I feel prepared for the challenges that await me.

From the summer before my college experience began at UCF, I was in constant search of ways to get involved on campus with other students majoring Legal Studies. After joining related organizations, it began to seem like I was getting myself on the right path as a pre-law student. Within a month, I had met twenty other students who gave me valuable advice and statistics for admission to law school. The experience has been enriching to my education and provided me with a wealth of knowledge and information from peers with first hand experience.

I have gained so many meaningful experiences out of UCF. The value of education, the meaning of friendship, how important it is to volunteer your time to others in need, are some prominent experiences. Confidence, that's a big one. I had always had somewhat of a battle with myself when it came to having the courage to be who I wanted to be. UCF has instowed in me a sense of who I am, what I want out of life. I am passionate about science, and find that I never stop asking questions when it comes to the natural and surreal processes of the earth. UCF has given me the resources to explore this passion, and that's one the best opportunities that an education can provide. I have the courage to step out of the medicore and add a little more spice to the customary steps one may take in pursuing a science major. Peeling off the residue I encompassed myself in for so long (being shy, timid) took a lot of strength. What with gaining confidence, I've become more open to strangers, more sociable, which is a significant factor to maintain in life. Thankyou UCF.

I have received many great aspects out of my college experience thus far. I have learned to work with others in an environment where every one has come from a different upbringing and background. I now see that high school was only the small stepping stone into college, and college is the stepping stone where the tools of actual life will really be received and ready to be used. My experiences have been very different than my private school early years. I enjoyed that time but am also glad I have gotten out of that element. I have been able to connect with others and truly find myself and who I want to become which has been trying to be seen and heard. College has been valuable to me because I am gaining knowledge and experience that only a college education can give me. I will have the craft and tools needed to succeed not only in my choice of career or degree, but tools that I will use in all that life has to bring me in the future. If I did not attend college, my life path would not have been clear and thus would have no value.

I have learned so much and as a result altered what my "life plan" was. It has been valuable to attend because there are so many available majors so even if you originally go to UCF for a specific major and then decide to change you can find something that works for you. I have gotten numerous opportunites(research, internship, guest lecturers in my field, etc.) based on attending UCF.

My college experience has probably been the best thing in my life. Even though I have only been in college for about 4 or 5 months so far, my life has changed in that time. I feel more accomplished, even though I've only completed one semester. I have found out that I really do enjoy engineering, and that choosing this field of study was more than just the dollar amounts that will be present upon graduating with this degree. I have also made tons of friends, mainly my teammates on the school's ultimate frisbee team, that have helped me through my beginning stages of college. Before I left for college, I wasn't really sure where my life was headed. I had never been very confident, and never really fit in anywhere. However, in just these few months, I know that I have the ability to graduated from UCF and be successful, and I also have a great group of friends.

The main objective of college is to earn a degree, but I have gotten much more out of my higher education than simply knowledge of a particular subject. Thanks to extracurricular programs such as a leadership development team and Alternative Spring Break, I have had multiple opportunities to learn about and experience issues I may not have otherwise encountered. One of my leaders in the leadership team introduced me to the idea of Teach for America, a program I now intend to pursue so I can help close the achievement gap. I was also fortunate to go on an Alternative Spring Break to Tucson and across the border to Mexico. I learned about things not covered in the news, such as when we visited an orphanage that was home to several children who had witnessed their parents dying of dehydration trying to cross the desert. Witnessing this atrocity made it a reality for me. Some classes touched on a few of these topics, but I know I would be different without these experiences. College has been valuable to attend—not just because of knowledge garnered in classrooms, but also because of the invaluable opportunities offered.

If I had to start this year all over again, I would have still decided to do the E.O.P program and I would apply to Central Connecticut State University. Incoming students might think that their first year of college would be scary, but once you get here they’ll realize how exciting college can be. A couple things that college students should keep in mind is learn how to manage your time, make wise decisions, and choose your friends wisely. If you keep these tips in mind and have a positive attitude then you’ll be able to survive E.O.P and your first semester in college.

At 52 years-old I have a 25-year history of drug addiction and criminality, followed by 14 years of clean, responsible living, giving back through volunteering and employment in addictions agencies these 14 years. The earlier years are dotted with attempts at college education, earning credits used later in transfer. Since returning to college I earned my criminal justice associate's degree, and am close to getting my bachelor's in social work. I need this degree (and this scholarship) because I will be able to reach and help more people when I have a bachelor's or master's degree, and also because self-sufficiency is difficult on a behavior technician's wages-the only non-degree position I qualify for. Majoring in social work suggests that one has the heart to serve people; additionally, I have passion to succeed and to help others succeed, and the ability to reach clients through my extensive street and criminal experience. This goes a long way with these populations. Having earned, through exemplary lifestyle, exemptions from disqualification for employment from DCF and DJJ, meaning I pass all background security clearance checks. Hirable, with many productive years ahead, I need my education.