University of Connecticut-Tri-Campus Top Questions

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

Marisa

If I could go back in time I would tell myself not to slack off. I would tell myself to do all my homework, and apply myself in all my classes. That way I could use all the knowledge I aquired in high school in college. I would also tell myself to be involved in as many extra curricular activities as possible so I could get use to time managment skills because you definitly need them in college. Also take every experience as a lesson learned positive or negative, because things are always going to get tough you just have to learn how to roll with the punches.

Brittany

If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to continue the path that I was on. I initially wanted to attend Storrs as a freshman, but due to finances, I was unable to live on campus; and that the next best option was to commute to the Waterbury branch. Seeing my life a year later; I’m so happy about the choice I made. The classes that I was required to take were all general classes that everyone needs to take no matter what. Seeing that I saved over 10,000 dollars, I made the wisest financial decision possible. I believe that even though it was the smarter financial way for freshmen year, it was beneficial for me socially too. The most difficult transition into college was the amount of time that I had to dedicate to fully understand the material. I can’t even imagine how difficult it would’ve been if I had to adjust to living in a dorm with other students and the peer pressure of always going out. Altogether, the advice I would give myself is to relax and don’t worry about commuting freshman year, it is a better overall choice.

Anna

If given the chance to go back in time to talk to myself as a high school senior, I would say, "College isn't for everyone; I know at times you feel like it is not for you. However, one day you will make yourself proud beyond words. You can't give up no matter what type of challenges comes your way. The transition into college life is the simplest of all academic grades. You will find yourself amongst peers who have the same troubles and fears of succeeding, as well as, the same excitement and anxiousness of being a college student. Allow yourself to have fun, but do not get too carried away with your personal endeavors. Be open to new experiences and enjoy them while they last. There will be points in your college career where you may feel like giving up. But don’t worry, you will be supported from all angles of the campus and you will gain your confidence back. Challenge yourself and do the best to your ability so you can graduate with no regrets. Laugh when you can, smile at everyone and most importantly, make friends with the parking authority.”

Jess

Throughout my college experience the most important thing that I have learned his responsibility. In colege no one will force you to go to class or do your work. When I first started school I was working a lot because of financial woes. I began missing class to try to get extra money for gas and books, because of this my grades suffered badly. After I took a year and a half off from school I was able to get my feet underneath me. This year was the first year that I was able to focus solely on school and I was able to make presidents list because of this. With time to study and focus on my school work I will only continue to get better/smarter and hopefully I will be in grad school sooner rather than later.

Desiree

In August of 2009 I was just starting college as a freshman, and although I was new, I really loved the experience. Each class was full of diversity and new information, which really expanded my mind. However in January 2010, I was in a fatal hit and run car accident in which I was the victim, being hit by another driver who later turned himself in. I had fractured my pelvis, fractured my skull, broke my jaw, broke my nasal passageway, broke several bones in my face, and sustained multiple lacerations. The other driver who had no license or insurance, left me for dead, however I made it through. Life is short, and tomorrow may never come, so I would like to make the most out of my today. My experiences in college made me realize there is so much in life I have yet to learn, and from now forward, is my time to excel and reach every goal I have set for myself. Keeping positive, and motivating myself I plan to continue through college, not only learning, but making it as far as I can.