University of Nevada-Las Vegas Top Questions

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

Nathaniel

Assuming I could go back in time and talk to myself as senior I would tell myself that you need to start earlier and take school a lot more seriously. That you shouldn't goof off and apply to as many colleges as you can. Try and get as many scholarships now instead of waiting a year later. By the time you think your ready to start you have very little time to get everything done. Listen to the Guidance Counseler and all of the Teachers they know what their talking about.

Reema

As a college student, I have realized that college life is not all about partying like everyone talks about. College is fun, but it has to be taken seriously when it comes to classes. When I was a high school senior, I thought college would be completely different. My perceptions weren?t even close to what I was expecting. I guess one can say "expect the unexpected" when it comes to college. There is much more to college such as learning and teaching oneself to study. These kinds of studying habits pay off in college, so as a high school senior I could have adopted these study habits. Also, as a high school senior I could have taken advantage of the many opportunities to sign up for more scholarships. It would have helped a great deal during college years. Another advice I would give myself is to visit the university's online site more often and go on campus to familiarize myself with what college life would be potentially like. Looking back now I have no regrets because I am taking advantage of what I have in the University of Nevada Las Vegas.

Madelyn

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a highschool senior, knowing what I know about being in college and how I transitioned. I would tell myself to breathe, and just take things slow and when you got questions do not hesitate to ask because no question is stupid and no question should go un-answered. When choosing a college make sure you look at everything they have to offer, just because your friends go to this one and you dont want to be seperated doesnt mean you should do the same. Go to the college you want to go to, and when you get there just make sure you keep calm, dont get stressed which is easier said than done. Take things easy, study hard and most of all make sure you ask questions when you need to! Going from highschool is a peice of cake, its getting the work done is the hardest because everything changes.

Tyler

This is going to be a huge change for you, and the sooner you realize the gravity and worth of it, the sooner you will start getting something back from your college experience. A lot of people will tell you that college is different and it is much better; those people are only partially right. As a college student it is your choice to seek and do what you love that will truly set college apart from any previous educational experience you have ever had. Also, wear sunblock and comfortable clothing that you feel confident in.

Richard

Ambition. Perseverance. Resourcefullness. These three words define a college student thriving to achieve their degree and eventually an opening for their perfect job. As for me, these words are the epitome and foundation to what I have learned at the collegiate level. Looking back in the past as a high school senior, I recall myself to be successful in academics, busy in extra-cirricular activities, and even teachers' assistant. However, these three important characteristics that I discovered in college never really came to mind. If I went back to being a high school senior, I would ellaborate on using these three characteristics to enlighten myself to what was ahead. First, being ambitious requires you to look and think past the obvious. Go the extra mile and seek to understand rather to be understood. Second, take whatever obstacle that comes as a positive aspect and not a negative one. Persevere and look for options to resolve the problem in question. Finally, use what is around you as a tool; a connection that will help you achieve your goals. Friends, professors, advisors, or even the cool use of intellect that a book can provide, will ultimately bring you closer to your success.

Chad

If I could go back and talk to myself I would probably tell myself that college is not a game and to take it seriously, take risks but live conservatively and study as hard as I could. I would also tell myself to prepare better my senior year for the experiences good and bad that I would have to face. I guess if I had to just say what I should of done it would be just to prepare better.

Kyle

My biggest burden now, this second semester of my freshman year. Ranging from food, books, and tuition. I would tell myself to save more, find more scholarships and possibly another part time job. For 3 years I have had a job that is extremely seasonable, most favorable in the summer. Which means money is a bit low in the winter. But that will not be good enough for sure in college, so find another part time job and save that money for books! And tuition is stressing everyone out, especially mom and dad, so you got to put way more time into finding some, it will make life a little bit easier! Because if you don't you will feel terrible second semester with the worry of money. You'll have to balance: a job hunt, scholarships, and working. Life will just be running so much more smoothly if you save some money and get another job, do it man, do it!

Andrea

In my first semester of college I did not focus and did not finish my sememster. I also did not return to college until I was 24. So going back I would talk to myself about how I needed to grow up and focus on my classes. I would tell myself "you do not need to be a follower, and that it is more than okay to be "the nerd" and study on a Friday and Saturday night". This information, if I would have listened to it, would have been the pep talk I needed. If I would have talked to myself about how dedicated I needed to be I am sure I would have done much better in that semester and been able to continue/ complete my education at UNLV much sooner.

Christina

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to get out there and meet as many people as I can. I would tell myself to not be scared of anything, get out there, and learn something new. I would tell myself to have the courage to do anything because I will be able to do it as long as I put my mind to it. I would tell myself to work harder than I am working now because I could do better. I would tell myself to get more scholarships and do more than I am doing now. If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to be better than I already am. I would not settle with being average.

Shannon

If I could go back in time and tell myself what to expect about college, I would tell myself not to worry as much as I did through my senior year of high school, because I was well prepared for the courses I would be taking. Educationally, I would reasure myself that I was wellrounded and would shine in class discussion and in papers where my personal opinion could be put into writing. I would explain that although I was bright, I needed to make sure to keep a schedule as to not procrastinate the work load that I have until an unreasonable amount of time is left for me to give my assignments as much dedication as I could. I would stress that college is more about just the classes and encourage myself to get involved in going to atheletic events or looking into clubs and activities sooner then I did, because getting involved in school is more then just receiving an education.

Angela

I would put more effort into applying for scholarships. I would have been involved in sports to heighten my chance for being eligible for scholarships. As I am now struggling to make ends meet and still attend college I would have found a job and saved my money from my paychecks in an account to save for college. I would not change my study habits or the classes I attended as I had a good GPA and did well on my SATs. I would like to have attended a college that suited my needs, I wanted to begin studying animal sciences and pre-veterinary classes. UNLV does not offer these classes so I had to change my major.

Ryan

The advice that I would give myself would be this. Don't change the way you are because other people have a problem with it. Focus on your school work, take some time to yourself and, on occasion hang out with your friends. Don't try to conform to what others want you to be, and don't follow someone else's path even though you know that is not the direction you want to go in. Basically, just be yourself and get your education. Ask questions when needed too.

Ricalynn

RESEARCH EVERYTHING! Schools, cities, specific colleges and majors, paying for school, etc. I wish there was someone there to tell me that it's not easy being a college student, and it's very easy to get off track. In college, everything is literally dependent on YOU. There's no one there to hold your hand or make exceptions for you. You have to make everything happen for yourself, and make sure you do what you are set out to. If you're not ready for college, take some time off, only if you know you can go back. I took two years off, and though I wouldn't take it back, I would have been done with school by now. Surround yourself with people who continue to grow and who support your decisions, not those who stay in the same place or job and never excel. Remember that all you have is yourself - this is the time in your life where it's ok to be selfish. Most importantly - stay on track! Who cares if you don't finish in four years? What matters is - you finish.

Sherrel

I would focus more on my school life rather than my personal life. I allowed certain individuals to get in the middle of my studies and I feel that it has hindered me in more ways than one. It postponed my education and I could have done a lot more if I would have put it first instead of relationships.

Stefany

I graduated early from High school, so as a High school Junior, I would have definitely looked at more scholarship opportunities or alternative colleges to attend. I had enormous potential.

Stephanie

I would tell myself not too worry about what happens in high school. You will get another great experience in college as you leave high school behind you.

Rowena

I would definitely tell myself not to take things lightly, college is a lot different from high school, and don't slack off. This time things are a lot more serious.

Manuel

Hello Manuel, the college life at UNLV is definitely going to be a great one! The ability to meet new people and good friends that you?ll remember throughout your college years is something great about college. Everyone is just like you; they all want an education for a professional degree. Don?t be scared, college is where you?ll meet your girlfriend, earn good grades, which you?ll be extremely proud of and where your path to success will begin. I have to say that college is definitely different than high school. There are no bells, no people telling you what to do or any students acting immature. Everyone is grown and understands the importance of college and is eager to go. College is where you will be challenged to work hard and get somewhere in life. Unlike high school, you earn your grade for your effort in college, you don?t just get them. Don?t worry college will definitely be the best time of your life, so gear up and get prepared for the next four years of college!

Pendance

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would have retaken my college entrance exams and worked on my scores a little bit more, because I now know their real value. I'd also suggest doing a little more college shopping than I did, and to look deeper into the programs that I was interested in. I think I'd also suggest doing a little bit more community service and getting connected to people, I was a bit of a study worm. But even if I could go back and do it all over again, I would still be happy with UNLV, and I would still choose it for my college.

wallta

Dont get caught up in the Las Vegas party lifestyle. Concentrate and stay focused on school before pleaure and you will succeed

Andrew

Make sure you have the best TV and a PS3

Jared

Don't take too many credits your first semester and don't be afraid to ask for help and attend tutoring clinics on campus.

Jessica

I would advise myself to get used to studying and learning on an individual basis because college professors aren't there to hold your hand like a lot of teachers in high school are. I would also advise myself to not declare a major unless I was certain that it was what I wanted to do because otherwise you might take classes that won't really count towards your degree if you change your mind.

Ashley

I think I would take the same route I did the first time around. My senior year of high school I moved out to Las Vegas and instead of enrolling in a regual public school, I entered a dual enrollment program where I attended high school and college simultaneously. I took high school classes with high school teachers on the community college campus. I think attending this community college helped me prepare for what college life was going to be like, and especially since I was enrolled in both high school and college at the same time. I was still able to have high school as a cushion when college was rough, but at the same time I got the chance to stick my foot in the water so -to-say, to see how college would truely be like. I then enrolled in the community college and graduated with an associates degree where I then transfered over to UNLV. Being at the College of Southern Nevada helped prepare me for the college experience I would have at the university level. It was very beneficial and I would do it the same way the second time around.

Kristin

I would tell myself to listen to my high school teachers when they said to not procratinate. As a Straight A student in high school I did not believe that college would be any different. I soon realized that College is alot different being that you have no one there to keep you on track besides yourself. I am on track now and working very hard to accomplish my goals while working full time. I would tell myself to stay focused and take advantage of all the amenties that my school has to offer i.e., academic advisors, on campus resources, activities, etc. I would also encourage myself to get involved in the school and meet new people.

Brittany

Brittany, you are a beautiful, smart and fun girl. Get involved with more campus activities because your time at UNLV will be longer than you expect and you should make the most out of it. Take all the necessary classes you need to find out what you really want to major in. Participate in class and sit in the front whenever possible. Talk to your professors. Not having a job will do wonders for your GPA but you'll do great regardless. You don't need a personal laptop to do well in college, and not having it makes you work smarter. You are blessed and you will graduate.

Anonh

I would advise myself to stop being so cynical and do not be afraid of opening up. I used to be someone who kept to himself often and had a hard time carrying on a conversation with strangers. I would tell myself to loosen up and don't worry so much about the future. I wouls say what lies ahead in college is possibly the greatest experience in my/our life so do not be afraid to try new experiences and do not worry so much about what other people think. College is a great opportunity to start over. College is a time to reinvent one's self for the better so do not be afraid of modifying routines or listening to different types of music. Life is far too short to stick to one perspective and one way of living. Try some new experiences and meet new people to make the most out of life before committing to a more restricting life with a full time job and career.

Trayce

Take your time to select a university. Don't thumb through the file cabinet and randomly select. Do your research. Don't be afraid of rejection letters, apply to the best schools anyway. Don't worry about the cost, things will all work out in the end. Put forth your best effort on the ACT exam and keep trying until you get your highest score. Research scholarships and apply for them all, you are an excellent essay writer. Always remember: good enough is not your best. Only your best CAN BE your best.

Jared

Nothing is impossible. You can pass any class if you put enough effort into it. Make time for studying your number one priority because you usually need more time than you make time for. The worst feeling is knowing you could have done better on a exam if you would have put more effort into your studying. The struggle just makes it that much better in the end whether its a quiz, exam or a semester.

Andrea

High school is a joke but when it comes down to it, score really high on the SATs. A high score on your SATs is your ticket out. Also get invovled in extracurriculars and try taking tougher classes such as Advanced placement and honors.

Marina

There are many things I would of told myself: 1) Know the field you want to get into for a career because changing majors is not fun and depending on what you change your major to it puts you behind. 2) Be on top of things. In college they dont hold your hand and tell you what to do, they guide you and you usually have to figure things out from there. Usually to get things done and get them done right you have to do it yourself. By learning all this yourself you get an idea of how everything like classes, major/gpa requirements, ect, need to be. 3) Dedicate yourself to your studies. Do not blow things off till last minute because it will hurt you. What you might have gotten away with in high school, you may not get away with in college. 4) Remember to also have fun. Enjoy the college experience and get involved in the college/university community. This way you can also network and meet a variety of new and different people.

Jorica

For your Biology and Government class, really study hard because you got a C in that class and I know if you work hard, you can get a better grade. Also, study for the PRAXIS 1 test now and take it as soon as possible. Take summer classes and take your Chemistry lab class with your Chemistry lecture class because it is easier that way. In general, plan what you need to do as soon as possible and do not leave it off till last minute. Work harder in all your classes so you can be Cum Laude.

Venus

Honestly? I would say, "Good luck kiddo, you're gonna need it... Also, use protection and study hard."

Jean

Being able to go back to relieve myself of the pressure and stress I have now, I would definitely tell myself to never procrastinate, but instead use my all of my time wisely. I would emphasize using my summer vacation to self-teach and learn all the graphic programs ahead of time before I enter college. I would encourage myself to go apply for internships at the Senior Signs company or a graphic design/advertsing firm. I would most of all focus on doing all of the things I can possibly do to prepare myself for the Fine Arts program to make it one of the best experience I can have.

Krisitina

I would tell myself to procrastinate less and go to more football games, enjoy the three dollar hotdogs. I'd say to study hard when the time is right because tests are worth so much more here but to remember to actually experience college for all it is. Also, don't be so shy because hardly anyone knows each other so don't be afraid to speak up. Be sure to ask your teachers questions because it's actually valued in college and think outside of the box when writing papers simiply because teachers like that. Don't overload yourself but experiment with classes. Take that dance class you heard about or maybe an art class. College is the half-way step into the real world, so enjoy it while it last because it goes fast.

Steven

The advice I would give myself would mainly be to really think about what I wanted to major in. I personally picked the school I am at based on my major, and I am starting to have doubts about it. The school I am at is 2,800 miles away from my home and it is definitely hard not being close to friends and family. If I could talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to find a school within driving distance to home. I like the climate and people from my home much better than the climate and people here. I would also tell myself that college is no joke, it is challenging and I would have to focus to succeed. I would make sure my high school self understood that I would have to work hard in a field that I enjoy to succeed in this world.

Jessica

I would give myself advice that said not to party and go crazy my first semester

Krystal

Be ready to motivate yourself! No one can do this for you, and you won't have anyone hanging over your shoulder making sure things get done. Also, break out of your shell. Don't be afraid to talk to people, and don't be afraid to stand up for yourself. Make sure that you study what makes you happy! Don't settle for anything because you want to be able to use this education for the rest of your life! And prepare yourself to be completely stressed out, but make sure you take time to keep yourself healthy. Nothing is worth killing yourself over. Finally, DON'T PROCRASTINATE!!!

Kayla

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell my past self that college will be the beginning of another great adventure. She would need to know that anything can happen and she just needs to be ready for anything. I would also tell her to not pay attention to what happens in movies because college is not just about being forced to rush for a sorority or being forced to party, its not like living in the dorms will be tough because people will be loud and you wont get any studying done. All of that is not true and I would let her know that she will enjoy every minute of her time at UNLV. However, if it was a choice to go back and tell myself something, I would respectfully choose not to. I feel that college is a big learning experience, like a class where I wouldn?t want to cheat my way through it. If anything I would go back and observe myself and reminisce on the reason I chose to go to college and how that was the best choice I had ever made.

Jennifer

I would advise students to visit every campus they are considering. Know thyself. Do you feel comfortable being a small fish in a big pond or vice versa? Are you a city person or do you prefer to be in a small town environment? I would recommend prospective students talk to department chairs and deans about the programs that interest them. I would suggest they talk to the campus career center to find out which companies recruit on the campus and what percentage of students get placed in jobs upon graduation. I would not only tour the campus; I would ask to sit in on a class or two. Once a student selects a school, they need to become involved in activities and organizations to develop leadership skills. Good grades alone are not enough in the competitive world we now live in. Make yourself known to your professors so they think of you when an internship comes along or you need a letter of recommendation. Reach out to other people and embrace your differences. Force yourself out of your comfort zone and learn about things you never would have had you not gone to college. Keep an open mind!

Raven

Choose a college where you can be more focused on your education rather than your social life. School first, Fun later. Participate in lots of school events and make lots of friends . But don't let your friends infuence you to do the wrong thing like not going to class or party instead of doing homework. And last but not least, STUDY, STUDY, STUDY.

Stephanie

Before you decide which college is best for you, make sure you take a college visit and talk to some of the students from each campus. You may discover that your first choice college isn't the best one for you. It is better to find that out before you attend than to make the switch after you have already started somewhere.

Laurel

Be flexible.

Pendance

I would suggest to parents and students looking for college that they make sure that they are ready for college and all that it brings. You can't do well in a college if you don't want to be in school. College comes with a lot of responsibility, you have to motivate yourself when you're a student because mommy and daddy aren't always there to check up on you. To parents I would suggest that you look around and make sure your college student will be happy and healthy at school. Look around and find things that your student will like to and see if there are any groups he or she will be interested in. For students, I'd say look around at what the program you're going into offers and look at all the campus facilities around to help you. Try to find a place that you'll like to be a part of and to get involved in. Its all about who you are and what you want in life, college is only part of that road to getting there. The 'right' college is the one that puts your feel on the path.

Ryan

My advice to parents and/or students about finding the right college or university is to match the college to your career dreams. I have been ecstatic about film ever since I first laid my four year old eyes on the silver screen. I realized that filmkaing was my purpose in life. I longed to create these reactions in all kinds of people, unifying them through the experience of watching a movie. My career goal is to write an award winning movie and I could not achieve this with the minimal opportunities at UNLV. However, in order to achieve my dream, I will be attending Columbia Hollywood Film School in the fall. When I attended UNLV after high school I did not realize that the school did not offer the opportunities I was looking for, so I made a decision to attend another college that would help me to achieve my final goal. Also students should look at colleges not only for academics, but for opportunities of job placement after college.

Nikole

As a junior in college, I am still not completely sure what makes a college "right" for any one person, but I can say this... every single school has its strengths and weaknesses. For me, UNLV was one of the least academically prestigous schools on my list of choses, but as far "right for me" it just seemed to fit. I am close to my family and have developed a wonderful group of friends. I am happy with my decision to attend the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. The only advice I would like to give students and/or parents is to make sure to find an environment that is going to make you/your student happy. Find a place where you/your student will be able to succeed to the best of your/their potential. That place may not be Harvard or Columbia, it may be UNLV, but it will be "right" for you/your student.

Shaquia

The best advice to give a student and his/her parents for colleges is to look for a school that excels academically, meets the student's wants for population size, and has a great background in what ever the student wishes to major in (only if the major has been decided). The student should also decide on how diverse he/she wants the school to be. I personally picked a school where I would learn more about others than just ?Black and White.? There are a variety of schools that are culture-specific, such as Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Hispanic-Serving Institutions, and many other minority institutions. For a student to make the best of his/her college experience, it is best to break one?s shell. Looking for social events (such as club and/or organization introductions) that are held on campus is an option. If the student is living on campus, roommates and suitemates are always useful when someone is trying to make the best of one?s college years. In any route the student takes, shyness is not the best choice when one is networking with classmates and others.

ASHLEY

Make sure they offer a detailed program of exactly what career you want to have, not just a broad program in which you have to go to a different school to get more detailed education.

Jasmine

I believe the first step in to choosing the right college and making the most of the college experience is to dream. Students should dream about their deisred career goals, they should dream about the ideal place they would like to spend the next four years of their life. They should dream about the types of friends and professors they would like to engage with. This step is crucial because if students are allowed to dream about their ideal college and experience instead of making decisions based on financial, family, and peer influence they will be much happier with their college choice. Once students imagine their ideal college they should look at all schools that fit their profile. After this step, students will then need to get information about student life, academic curriculum , the city the school is located in, and financial aid options. I strongly recommend visiting the school and checking to see if the university offers a mentor program where incoming students can learn about the university and student life from a peer's perspective. College is more than academics it's about the shaping of one's identity so the right choice is important.

Graham

To make the most of your college experience, it is important to prioritize what it is you want to do with life. College can be a series of parties or a series of long nights studying, or perhaps a balance of both. College can be a time of rapid change in the student?s life, a time of meeting new people, having new classes and often, a time of having more freedom than the student has ever had before. With these and many other directions a life can take, a student must prioritize what he or she want from his or her college experience. College is what we make of it, and to borrow a phrase from Charles Dickens, ?It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness??