University of Nevada-Las Vegas Top Questions

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

Stephanie

First, I would tell myself to do the dual high school/college enrollment, in order to graduate early. Then, I would tell myself to not let the loftiness of dreams like Harvard and Brown get in the way of seeing them come to fruition. I would tell myself that everything is temporary, and not to get so worried about the trivialities. I would tell myself to not be afraid of calling out teachers who you disagree wholeheartedly with. I would tell myself to never stop writing and pursuing that dream. I would tell myself that writing classes and critique groups are brutal, but necessary evils. I would tell myself that you will meet at least one teacher who will change your life and your perception forever. I would tell myself that the world still is the beautiful, shining, open thing it was during childhood, but that sometimes as an adult, this comes out only in glimpses. I would tell myself to savor each one.

Desarae

Wake up! Rise and shine it is time to get up and start your day. You need to be on time. Running late to class is a poor habit and can become a hindrance to your advancement. Study! Take the time to read and review your notes every day. Be yourself! It doesn’t matter if you are well known or not be comfortable in your own skin. Plan ahead! You always should have a back –up plan because you never know what the future holds. Most importantly, don’t be discouraged! You are going to experience many obstacles, but you can do anything that you put your mind to. Work hard, stay positive, and faithful.

Keith

Initially, I declared my major in political science when I enrolled at my university. However, I saw students graduating from the program with dim job prospects; many remained unemployed for months after graduation. I switched my major to finance. Although not my first choice, I felt it would offer better job prospects than political science. This proved to be correct; although I did not find a job in finance, I did find one in information technology. I left my comfort zone when I accepted this job, but found a fulfilling career.Throughout my academic life, beginning with college guidance in middle school through high school graduation, the most repeated piece of advice I received from counselors always involved pursuing a field of study I felt passionately about. Practicality and reasonableness were never taken into account; those traits were expected to follow in any field I chose, so long as I loved it. If I were advising my senior-self, given my college experience and my observations of other students, I would soundly reject this advice and encourage myself to study a major that provides a comfortable living, but to still explore outside of my comfort zone to find unrecognized passions.

Nina

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would give myself some helpful pieces of advice. The first one would be to not stress so much! College is an awesome experience and you should enjoy it to the fullest. You are smart, be confident in that and know that even when it gets hard, just pace yourself, you'll get through it, as you always do. I would tell myself to sieze every opportunity to network with people, make career connections and to not be too shy to to always ask questions when you have them.

Javier

Search for a better college and explore it well before making the decision. I was in Puerto Rico State University and I transfered to Johnson And Wales in Rhode Island, looking for a better education. Its not bad, but there are so many better places. Leaving home was a hard decision and maybe not the smartes at this point. The best place to study is where you feel comfortable and happy about you enviorment. So for me after I finish my associates in robotics im going back to Puerto RIco to continue my studies in another University in Computer engineering. Nothing is easy but perseverance is key.

Gemma

If I could go back in time, I would tell my high school self that there is always a way. During my freshman year of high school, the one problem that I always had was funding college. Although I had filled out the application for financial aid, I was not aware of the costs of school, on-campus boarding etc. If I knew what I had known now it is that there is always a way to fund for college without borrowing loans from friends or from the government. At first, I thought that financial aid from the government was the only way that I could finance my school; I thought that employment was far beyond my reach because of how young I was- I was wrong. A year later, I am an administrative assistant for a home health care company; although this is not my field of study it is one more stepping stone to the real world. If I could tell my high school self one thing, it is that there is always another way for anything that you aspire for.

Alexandra

The main advice I would give myself would be to really study hard for those SATs! They really make the difference in the college classes for myself. Secondly I would advice myself to try to make as many friends as possible, they not only help make college that much easier, but they also allow you to have fun while you are studying all the time. It is important to ask questions so do not be shy!

Taylor

Definately be prepared to write more. In highschool most of the papers are one to two pages long, where as in college the requirement is around 3-6 pages. You are going to have to be more independent because the teachers are not going to baby you through the process or care if you leave because you are paying for it. You are going to have to work hard because your parents will not get various notifications on what or how you are doing, it is up to you to make sure you get good grades. Learn to be less dependent on friends because they are no longer going to be on the same path as you and so you are going to have to be your own person. Also be prepared to spend time at the library, because teachers can call off class without warning or make the class shorter than normal and you can have hours between classes.

Yvette

The first thing I would tell myself as a high school senior is to calm down. Do not stress so much about college. Yes, there is still senior year grades to worry about, but honestly you do not have to stress out so much. Your grades are already great and you meet all of the requirements for your applications. I am not saying do not make school a priority, but do not make it your only priority for senior year. During your senior year spend as much time with your friends as you can, because you all will never go to school together again. Live in the moment. You can still plan for your future, but make the most of your senior year. After this year high school is over and you will be starting a new chapter of your life. It will be difficult at first to transition and let go of the same routine you have had for the past twelve years, but it will get easier with time.

Noe

I would say if you're not going to be financially supported by your parents, college is going to be tough. You have to want it and know that it is worth every dollar. I would also tell myself to start saving money now instead of spending it on eating out and other unnescessary items. Besides being a finanical obstacle, college is an amazing place to discover who you are as a person. It's also a great time to make many new friends and contacts in the field you are going to pursue. Lastly, I would say eventhough it may seen difficult at times, stick it out! Not everything that's worth something is easy.

Bryan

remember, unlv is in the desert, so it gets crazy, super hot most of the year. be prepared, bring water, dress lightly, whatever you need to do to keep cool. get involved, in anything. workout, join a club or a group, attend lectures, or even just study or hang out with friends on different parts on the campus. unlv is a great place to just hang out and the more you have to do around campus the faster time will fly and the more of a true college experience you will have. for a lot of people living off campus, unlv is a pretty far drive from their homes so it's good not to waste time when you are there or it will just piss you off. while you are there, since you have to be, get to know the campus, the secret little places that make it unique and make them your own. go in and set up a computer account in both the library and the computer labs. they are a god send when you procrastinated on a paper or are just super bored at unlv. you can just chill and play games or watch movies or whatever you want on them, it's awesome.

Bryan

remember, unlv is in the desert, so it gets crazy, super hot most of the year. be prepared, bring water, dress lightly, whatever you need to do to keep cool. get involved, in anything. workout, join a club or a group, attend lectures, or even just study or hang out with friends on different parts on the campus. unlv is a great place to just hang out and the more you have to do around campus the faster time will fly and the more of a true college experience you will have. for a lot of people living off campus, unlv is a pretty far drive from their homes so it's good not to waste time when you are there or it will just piss you off. while you are there, since you have to be, get to know the campus, the secret little places that make it unique and make them your own. go in and set up a computer account in both the library and the computer labs. they are a god send when you procrastinated on a paper or are just super bored at unlv. you can just chill and play games or watch movies or whatever you want on them, it's awesome.

Melyssa

If I went back in time I would tell myself, Melyssa read more in highschool. Much that you learned in highschool will come up again in college. Read more and study. I would also tell myself to major in sociology versus political science it is way more intresting.

Hilary

When I was a senior in high school, I was accepted into George Washington University, and no one could have been more excited to get in than I was. That is probably why I was so devestated when I learned that there was no way I could afford to attend my dream school. I decided to stay home in an effort to avoid outrageous debts until graduate school, and it is one of the best decisions I have ever made. If I could go back in time and give my overly-worried, senior self some advice, I would tell myself it does not matter where I go; college is what I make it. It is all about my attitude, my willingness to become involved, and the effort I put in to succeed. I can have just as much fun as I imagine I would have had at GWU anywhere without the impossible price tag, and I now have the added bonus of my family's support. I realize now that I do not need a big name school to make a big name for myself. My future depends not on my college location but rests entirely on myself.

Whitney

As a High School senior, I would now tell myself to value each day. Although I had an amazing high school experience, I couldn’t wait to leave. All I wanted was to get out of the High School stereotypes and drama but retrospectively it was an amazing experience. Value friendships and treat them like treasures. A true friend is worth a million dollars, and keeping those bonds is a lifetime of value. Minutes seem like hours in high school but as soon as you walk out of those doors, hours turn into seconds. Time flies after leaving high school so create all of the memories you can hold on too long after you graduate.

Krystal

Although I have yet to finish my college experience, all that I have seen and gone through so far is very reassuring. I have to admit that I grow more and more in love with my experience as time goes by. The people I've met are wonderful, not to mention they're in college as well and do not slack off like those back in high school. I feel like I belong to a place in which people that want to be at school are actually at school learning, and not just there to be there. The College life has been so free, and yet has given me so much more responsibility. I feel that with this responsibility, it molds me more into the person that I want to become with the career I have in mind for the future-A Pharmacist. It has taught me time management, and taught me better study habits. I'm now more social and willing to venture out of my comfort zone. All of this has come my way this first semester of college and I cannot wait to see what else College life has in store for me.

Barry

Everyday, different Television shows and movies are created about various experiences some people have gone through in college. Well, let me tell you one thing. Most of those TV shows and movies are not even close to what I have experienced in college so far.Yes, there are parties and social gatherings, but this definitely does not sum up the real experience in college. College is where you experience how to be an adult, and where every decision you make can affect your life in ways you cannot even imagine. This is how it was for me. It was stressful, but definitely worth it. Everyday, I learn different things that helps me take a leap into adulthood and into my future. I'm glad that I chose to attend and be a part of something that will defy the rest of my life.

Danae

I am being prepared to enter this field of work by studying agricultural business and the many ways that farms operate. I want to utilize my time in college to learn as much as I can about this field of study. I have these ambitions because I want to influence the farming community and make a difference because I hold outstanding values, skills, and ethics that provide me with the will to learn and perform to the best of my ability. I want to recreate the incredible experience that I’ve had in the agricultural program for future individuals. I want to give people the opportunity to have the same knowledge and skills that I have attained.

Jesus

I am learning a lot of skill for be prepare for the future.

Dante

I have attended many universities since I started my college career and each one has taught me something different. I learned from Arizona the independence of being a college student is hard work and takes so much discpline. As high school students we have teachers, parents, and administators telling us to stay on task and actually helping us prioritize. Being student at Weber State I experienced how time management is very important to the success of ones college college career, especially student-athletes. Now at UNLV i am realizing that all work and no social life can be just just as bad to ones college, as all fun and no work. Every place has brought something new and different to my college experience but in the end the key is to success is having balance in ones social and educational life.

Sabrina

During my college experience, I've gotten to meet different people from all over the world from different backgrounds. I've had the opportunity to take part in many programs offered in school such as research labs, undergraduate teaching assistant positions, leadership workshops and extra curricular activities. Within my time at college, I've learned valuable lessons, not only dealing with my study habits, but other life lessons as well. I myself have grown as a person while attending college, and I don't think I would be who I am today if I didn't have this experience.

Sherry

I have learned a great deal about the many changes that are never-ending in medicine and in education, and how important it is to stay informed. I feel I am learning to be a better leader and a more skilled and professional nurse. I believe that attaining my BSN will make me a more rounded individual and more able to be competative in my field.

Anna

Through my past year and a half of attending the University of Nevada Las Vegas, my experience has been a rocky one. But my appreciation for even having the chance to expand my knowledge through any school has definitely increased. This city will ruin you if you let it, and through schooling and letting it help me accomplish my goals and dreams, I don't plan on letting it. I believe that attending school is my only key to happiness; being successful. It is my number one priority.

Diane

Having the college experience made me realized that I can be independent and responsible. My college experience made me focus more on my academics and financial responsibilities. I believe that college is valuable to attend because it is an investment for you and for your future.

Janet

There is so much to learn and know apart from the main focus of study. The understanding not be afraid to ask for help.

Drew

My college experience has given me the skills to succeed in life. I am a motivated individual and my GPA reflects that. I am focused on breaking the cycle of low income non educated members of my family. Attending this University has given me the ability to change my thinking and outlook on life. Education is the key to success. Although, my double major may be a dawting task, getting threw one semester at a time has shown me that the cumulative quest of recieving an education can lead to life long success. I have met individuals who are focused on similar goals in life. The population of the University is of such that I have found several indivuals that have similar backgrounds and are focused on the pursuit of their education in the same manner that I am. I have built friendships with these individuals and maintain a close contact with them as we trudge threw the road of happy destiny ant the University Of Nevada Las Vegas.

Jessica

When I started at UNLV my whole life had just fallen apart. I became a single mom of 2 children about a month prior to my first semester. I did not know how I was going to juggle a 9 year old, a 1 year old, full time work and full time school, but I did. My college experience has taught me that nothing is impossible when you set your mind to it. I have not only found myself through this experience but have realized that with hard work and dedication all my dreams can come true. I have learned to find the beauty in life and to take nothing for granted. My college experiences has not only brought me lifelong friends and memories but has also made me value my time with my family and loved ones. With great friends and family and a wonderful college experience I have learned that I am POSSIBLE!

Brittney

As the first person on either side of my family to attend college, I received such an immense feeling of satisfaction from attending UNLV. A few weeks ago when I graduated with my Bachelor's in Accounting, before pursuing my graduate degree, my whole family came out to support me on my special day. I have never seen them so proud. I feel that if I can overcome all the obstacles I've had to face in my life, anyone can do it. All it takes is hard work and dedication. That will be the most powerful lesson I take away from my time as an undergraduate in college.

rachael

I was able to grow as and individual, obtain knowledge, and meet some great people along the way.

Nicole

I have learned a lot while I've been in college. I have grown up and learned a lot about responsibility. I have also learned that I probably should have spent more time researching schools that specialiezed in my area of interest. I chose UNLV because my parents didn't want me to go out of state, and because the state of Nevada offered me a $10,000 scholarship to stay in state. Had I really looked into it when I was preparing for college I probably would have chosen a diffferent school. The past two years in college have taught me not to give up, and to do what ever it takes to achieve my goals. It has given me the resources and the knowledge I need to persue transfering to a better school. I am currently working with admissions office at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in hopes of transfering there next fall. They are ranked #13 in the Nation for Political Science majors. Without my previous college experiences I would never have had the drive to look into other options, and find a way to better my education!

Avelyn

My college experience has taught me the values of working hard and the rewards of doing so. It was incredibly valuable to attend to learn these important life lessons. Without attending college I wouldn't have learned to work hard and put my complete effort into everything I do. Through this, even though it may be for a class that isn't very important to you, you can still learn other interesting information. This information, such as history, or science, or math can be applied in everyday life. Although they may be classes you wouldn't choose to take on your own, you could learn that from it, you have actually learned quite a lot. For instance, in my Women's Studies class, I begrudgingly took it, just to satisfy one of my degree requirements. However, after taking that class, I learned a lot about myself and our society, which I still use today on a daily basis.

Tara

From my college experience, I have gained a sense of pride and understanding as well. Being a student fresh from Hawaii, never having lived on the "mainland" before, I was hesitant as to the differences of cultures. When I arrived however, I was amazed to see such a variety of students, and I instantly knew that I would be in a place where learning was the higher goal and people worked together regardless of any physical attributes or monetary statuses. Since my enrollment at the University of Nevada at Las Vegas, I have matured as a person and have learned so much, not only in the classroom but outside as well. I have created relationships with peers as well as teachers, and always feel comfortable in this learning environment. UNLV has made me a more cultivated and developed student and young adult, and as I embark on my educational journey to one day become a teacher, I am so very glad and proud to be at this beautiful campus where I know my education will prove to make a difference in others lives one day.

rachel

I have met a lot of nice people and learned a lot, of course. It has been very valuable to attend because one gains certain experiences and lessons from attending college. I gained new study habits, and probably lost weight walking clear across campus several times a week.

Alexa

I have got to see so many different cultures, beliefs, and values. On my campus there are liberals, conservatives, muslims, gays, lesbians, blacks, indians. There is everything you could possibly think of. I would say that I grew up a pretty sheltered life, but now after attending UNLV I see that there is much more to the world and many different people. None of my beliefs have been changed, but I am able to see and accept others people's culture. I do not look at the outward appearance of people anymore, but try to get to know their heart and see where they are coming from. Although, I do plan on transferring in the Fall of 2011 to a school with a better education system. But, I can say that I am glad I did attend UNLV for the time that I did.

Zackery

I have learned that no matter what your background, if you are provided an education, don't lose sight of the prize. It has been valuable for me to attend because I plan on becoming a nurse anesthetist, and I need to attend school and get good grades.

Tasha

I felt as if I took a very big step into college from highschool. The feelings of going into a 'University' made my stomach churn. Thoughts of, "Will I be okay?" and, "WIll I make new friends?" always repeated in my head. I had a difficult time thinking about my transition to college. But on the first day of school, I felt reassured, I was helped to find my classes, and found others in my classes that were in the same boat as I was, and that this was all new to us. I felt a comfort with these people, and thats when I really started to enjoy my new transition. The classes made me feel like I was there because I was aiming for a goal, after all I am a degree seeking student. What I've gotten from my college experience was that I was now in a enviroment where there are people who want to be here, at school, to learn. And that this would lead to my future. I truly value being able to attend this school, because it not only enhanced my vision to succeed, but to know myself and aim high.

Cody

I am a first generation college student. So far, my college experience has been absolutely amazing. Despite working full time in order to put myself through school and only being able to attend class in the evening, the experience has been something that I will never forget. I have learned the importance of time management and organization. I have developed a solid study habit which has allowed me to sometimes even surprise myself with my test scores. As I am a business major, I have learned many extremely valuable skills that I will carry with me, both in my personal and professional life, no matter where my path takes me. I have made friends and developed friendships that I feel will last a lifetime. My confidence levels in myself and my abilities have soared and I really feel that I can accomplish whatever I set out to do. My college experience, thus far has been everything I could have hoped for and then some. Given my experience, I have become a huge advocate and have encouraged many associates to get back in school and further their education.

Alyssa

I love going to UNLV. I think it has been an amazing experience. Not only are the students fun but the professors really put in the time to make sure you are learning and excelling in the class room. UNLV has great school spirit and outside of the classroom I think that is what I enjoy the most. I love being able to cheer on the Runnin' Rebels in any sport. Campus life is amazing and students make that all happen. If ever needed, one can ask anyone on campus a question and it will be answered to the best ability. Everything one needs in right on campus, from the amazing five story Lied Library, the Rec center where any student is welcome,to take any of the gym classes they offer, also the bookstore and even cafeteria when someone needs a quick bite. I love being a Rebel at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Keanu

I learned that life comes far too quickly to be captured and subdued but is slow enough for one to safely drift along its course. I can still remember the first day on campus with feelings of trepidation, uncertainty, fear, and sadness overwhelming me. Through these obstacles i realized that it is all about the effort you devote towards your college career. The fear I experienced was clearly a culmination of my conceit. Pride and vanity lead me to a belief that I was just a little more special than the person beside me. In reality it is the same for everyone. I may not be special, but I am still capable of actions and choices. I have chosen this path and although I am uncertain of where it will lead, at least I know that I have not simply surrendered. I am carrying on this ideal and applying it to my daily life. It is the daily actions and choices that define what your life will become.

xazrianna

My classes have not started yet, but i am so excited about them! I am going to a school of my dreams and I can already see them beginning to come true. Life makes so much more sense when you do what feels right to you. This feels right; I can get back to my creative roots and expand my artistic passion into a career. Imagine... loving your job! I'm hoping everything works out. Here's to changing for the better!

Tabitha

The two main things I have gotten out of my college experience so far are gaining an interest in astronomy and getting better at music composition. I am glad I got interested in astronomy, because it actually inspired me to write better music. Every time I took out the telescope to look at something, I always had a new idea. I never imagined all of this could happen just by taking a science class! This is also why it has been valuable to attend; not only have I "expanded my horizons" with new interests, I have also met a lot of new friends. Although the new interests and hobbies are just for fun, the most valuable thing about my college experience is the people I have met. After all, college is one of the best places for networking; I never know where my friends or I are going to be in 10 or 15 years, so it may turn out that one of us can help the other in their career!

Kimberly

During the first few months of being in college, I've seen what it takes to actually get an education. You have to stay attent in class, while also enjoying the company of your fellow classmates. In many of my classes, we've been pushed to express our opinions, whether it be over the power of voting, or sterotypes seen in child movies, or finding a way to make learning a foreign language easier. So far, college has offered me a whole range of activities to do while I'm not in class. If you need to work our ssome stress, the gym is available to all students, free of charge. We need to strive to better ourselves and put to good use the sacrifies our parents made in order for us to go to college. We need to push ourselves to go to school, so we can expect to have a better future for ourselves and our families. If we don't better ourselves, how can we better our communities and create a strong and stable economy with a surplus of employment for everyone.

Stephanie

I have gotten leadership skills from my college experience so far. By having leadership skills it has helped me have more confidence in myself. Also, it has helped me a lot with meeting new people and conversating with them. It has helped me challenge myself to do better and it has taught me some great things. For example, it has helped me be able to get up in front of a class and give a speech. It has influenced my life and it has made my life better by having those skills. It has been a value to attend college because of the new enviroment I am in. Students at my school are there to have an eduacation and to have a bright future. When I was in high school, many students could careless about their eduaction. They were not there to learn, instead they were there to socialize. Attending college has been very valuable, because there everyone wants the samething, which is a great education.

Ariana

At De Anza Community College, I took two classes that made me want to change my direction from just Film to Socially Conscious Film: Critical Thinking, Reading, and Writing; and Political Science- Race and Ethnicity. The critical thinking class made me realize that as much as I want to believe that I act without the influence of racism, ableism, sexism, homophobia, etc., that in fact it is inevitable. These beliefs are so deeply embedded in American society that it's extremely rare for anyone to be completely devoid of these negative beliefs. The class on race examined the root of racism in the U.S. and why it's perpetuated. This made me very aware of my ethnicity’s story- something I never learned before in school. We also read a book called The Human Side of Human Beings, by Harvey Jackins. This book proposes a theory of why people perpetuate the hurt they've experienced onto others. It claims that people need to fully release their hurt through telling their story and having it be understood. These realizations culminated into a deep passion for social consciousness.

Anthoney

When I graduate with my degree, I will have a knowledge of criminal justice that will allow me to go into the FBI, NCIS or any government agency that a forensic science department. It has been valuable for me to attend so that I may continue my schooling and can get into the career that I have found that suits my interests.

Luis

The college experience is an awakening from the spoon fed life that most students live, to a realistic version of how life really works. Before college, life was convenient. Books and materials were always provided for the students. Teachers and faculty members cared about the well being of their students and tried to provide an admirable environment for them. If there was ever any problems or difficulties help was practically presented at the fingertips of the students. College on the other hand breaks that bond allowing students to become independent. College students must learn to be prepared at all times because if they are not, nobody is going to stop and wait for them. College shows people that if people care about something than they should be the ones that make sure that everything works out for them. Most people have enough things to worry about than to worry about what other people want. College gives people the accessibility and tools to succeed, just as life does, but they have to be the ones that are willing to look for and use them. The college experience is just a preparation of how life truly works, through hard work and perseverance.

Alix

My college experience had only been brief but so far it has shown me how much I need to prepare for the outside world. Its showed me that people are human even in an older environment, they make mistakes and sometimes makes choices that aren't the noblest. Its also taught me to be cautious of those around you, and not everyone should be trusted so easily, however opening up to others is a crucial part of ones life to succeed. The experience also taught me that partying wasn't the highlight of college, although it may be fun at times, the most important is the wealth of knowledge there is to be used and how much it really helps to have a great education. The valuable lessons that it has taught me so far are the building blocks toward an effective and inspiring member of society!

Elizabeth

My college experience has been one of the most valuable experiences of my life. It brought to me a greater knowledge of who I am; as an artist and as a human being. It taught me what I will stand up for and what I can accomplish. I know that it is solely my own determination, work and luck that will advance me forward in my life and career in the years to come. If I want something, it is I alone who must go after it, for there is no one else who wants me to succeed as much as I want to succeed. My college may not be the best in the country, but education isn't always what is provided for you, but what you make of the education you choose to get. I believe that an undergraduate education is more about finding yourself than obtaining the most prestigious learning and now that I have found myself, I can continue on to graduate school this year to get the education I desire to pursue a more advanced career. Without my current current college experience, I would not have known that a graduate degree is my ultimate desire.

William

I started going full time with the help of the VA chapter 31 program. Finding this program at the time I did was a god send. I can no longer work in the line of work I have in the past, without college my wife and I would not have a future to look forward to. Because of college in 2 more years I will have a future in a line of work I can still do. On top of all of this because of the degree I will have I can make more than I could in the past. Going back to school has filled my days with hope. Going back as a 56 year old is more work than I would have ever thought. Doing so I find that there's alot more to me than what I thought there was in the past. College is the best place to start if you want to change your life for the better no what your age.

Kenneth

This is my second time being a college student, the first time was over 20 years ago. I think I have a unique perspective and I am surprised at the students today compared to 20 years ago. I have found this time that information is so readily available and students have such an advantage due to the internet. I think my former college experience is an advantage for me because I know what it takes to succeed with limited resources. I have helped several students succeed because I have formed study groups and encouraged them to help one another. This experience has been valuable to me because it has allowed me to apply my former college experience and use it to teach others. I have learned a lot about myself through this process and realized that I have a great deal of potential that I had doubted before. I have been empowered to succeed in a new career so that I can take care of my family and have a bright future.