University of Oregon Top Questions

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

Patricia

Don't be afraid to try new things, and don't procrastinate so much. Although you're getting straight A's even without trying your hardest, you will see that doing everything to the best of your ability really pays off. Get involved in things you never thought you would, talk to people you wouldn't usually talk to, and live your life to the fullest. In college you realize you should've done this sooner, and would have been more prepared when being faced with new situations and people you never let yourself encounter before.

Hannah

If I could go back and talk to my high school self I would tell me that I need to learn how to manage my time between work and play. I would tell myself that I need to get used to not having as much privacy as I would at home and to get out and be more social because there are a variation of people at a 4 year school. Knowing that tutors are there for help is a great thing and they will definetly help you with any troubles you may have. Another thing that I would tell myself is to quit being such a picky eater because the food gets old after awhile and its something you need to learn to get use to each day. Parents aren't going to be there everyday to cook you something special or to help you throughout the day. Most importantly learn to have more fun! You are going to be on your own for awhile so get out there and meet new people while managing your homework as well!

Alice

If I had the chance to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to not hold back and to not be afraid of failure. It is a very difficult transition when moving out and being on your own, but because this is a new "chapter" of my life, I'd like to tell my senior self to let go of my fears of being judged and to reach for the stars. It is very important, I've realized, to let go of your inhibitions and to say what's on your mind; there will always be that one person who may think your idea is ridiculous and does not agree with you, but will always be twice as much people who will respect and support your thoughts and opinions. Note to self: do not be afraid of being different because remember - those who mind don't matter, and those who matter don't mind.

Leela

If I could go back and talk to my senior self, I would want to tell myself to take a breath and enjoy the first part of senior year. I would want to enjoy being a senior more than just studying and focusing only on college. I'd say, "you are not in college yet, think about now." I'd tell myself that there is more to life than grades and test scores. I would want to attend more school events such as basketball and soccer games because you are only in high school once and that it's now or never. I'd tell myself to branch out and take some electives I was interested in, not just those colleges look at. Overall, I'd tell myself not to be so uptight and to enjoy high school and not stress out about the future as much.

Krislyn

Looking back at the past three months since i first arrived on campus, I do think of how thing would be different if i made certain decisions back in high school. If I could go back in time to my senior year of high school, I would most defenetly advise myself to get a job. Adapting to this enviroment, completely different from what I am used to, was no issue. I once heard that some students go to college more worried about paying tuition than they are focusing on academic works. I would highly recomment a job during senior year, I knew at that moment I had time for a job, but thinking this far ahead I had no idea it would be like this. I am currently trying to find a job due to the inability of my parents financial support next year and my desire to continue my education here at the U of O. Through out the day I wounder how it would be if i had held a working position during senior year. Everything went well as I moved here, just thinking about tuition makes me wounder "what if."

Kenneth

If I could go back in time and advise myself on how to approach the transition to high school, I would definitely advise myself to choose a 'quiet' or 'studious' hall on the Housing Application instead of 'collegiate' and 'social.' The dorms in particular can be very noisy at any time of day. It's really rough when you have midterms or finals the very same morning that your colleagues decide it's a good idea to play hallway soccer at 3 AM. In the event that my past self told me that there was no way to avoid getting stuck in one of those hallways, I would tell him to invest in a set of earplugs or noise-cancelling earmuffs. Sleep and relaxation are imperative to success in college. Being well rested helps with information retention and comprehension during lecture and study, as well as recollection and application during exams. There is no substitute for a good night's sleep (not even caffeine!).

Erika

In the past few months, I have had time to reflect on my high school career and I realized something that never occured to me before. Although I was very involved in high school, I never took the time to search for something I was really passionate about. My high school years were filled with activties that I had been a part of throughout middle school that had become second nature. I never felt the need to try something new because all of my time was occpuied with activites I felt comfortable with. For example, I was involved with leadership, soccer, tennis, and various clubs; things I had done since middle school. If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to try at least one new thing that I've never done before to remove me from my comfort zone. Choir and painting always interested me, but I was intimidated by my fellow classmates who were already experienced. I feel as though I missed out on many opportunites to discover a new passion. I would advise myself to not be afraid of being bad at something when the opportunity of learning something new about myself is present.

Elizabeth

I would advise myself to relax, take one day at a time, and try not to get ahead of myself. It is very easy to get stressed and succumb to anxiety in the college setting.

Summer

The advice I would give to myself is consider the college factors such as the city, clubs & programs, and new experiences. I look back on high school and I realize that I cushioned the seat for myself and I chose the safety net. I would advise to myself in high school to not be afraid of change, including the people you meet, the city you become exposed to or the person that you might grow into. If you are able to get into a university that you've dreamed of attending, don't let your friends, your family nor financial matters get in the way of experiencing something different. These new experiences will open your eyes and give you a new perspective on life and yourself. Do not be afraid to change or grow into the person that you can be.

Jaclyn

College is an experiance unlike any other one might remember from high school. Although there are games, events, and homework, the ambiance is completely defferent. If I could go back and give myself advice to better prepare myself, I would have read more in preparation for college. Although I did a full IB load in high school, college grades are so different. No longer do I recieve points for my thoughts shared in class or for projects, instead it is completely based on test scores, or at least it has been for my past classes. I would have prepared myself more by learning how to hold onto material through reading, and not allowing myself to only be taught by the instructor. College has made me realize a lot of times you have to teach yourself at home through gross text books and exhausting internet readings. To maintain the information better, I should have started trying to learn how to teach myself best in high school.

Melissa

It is important to study more, especially now since the university is something that should be taken seriously. If I need help I should not hesitate to ask for help because there are people that can help me with anything I need. This university cares that I as a student do well academically and achieve my dreams of whatever career I want to pursue. I will take advantage of this and do my very best in my college years at this university.

Hailey

I would explain to them that the transition from high school to college is really challenging. Especially when going to a school out of state. I remember thinking I would adjust really quickly to my new life and really love it. However, my first year was really difficult for me. I had to make all new relationships, adjust to new whether, and get used to being without my family. All though this experience is really challenging it is also very rewarding. You get to experience a whole new life, different from anything you have ever lived and meet all sorts of new, fun people. It feels really good to learn and to grow every day. It is an adventure that I would recommend for everyone to try.

John

I would start by asking myself a few questions: Why are you going to school and this school in particular? What /Who do you want to be in five years? How do you get there? Take the time to research the certification and experience needed to follow your dreams. Going to college allows you follow your dreams. Investigate your school; try to learn about its lifestyle, academic standing, accessibilty, and personality. Does this school get you to where you want to go; if so great, if not then keep looking. College will be a time of intense personal and intellectual growth. Participate in the experience - join clubs, student government, be interactive in class, TRY TO LEARN THE MATERIAL. Give it your best shot because you want to learn everything that you can; grades will take care of themselves. Be grateful everyday, this may be one of the best experiences in your life. Don't miss it. Develop a relationship with fellow classmates, the faculty and the staff at your school. They are probably caring people and they maybe helpful to you even later, after college. Try to contribute to the history and influence of the school. Make a difference.

Melissa

First off, re-read all your notes before class starts to freshen up your knowledge on the subject. Value having a year long math class and really try with homework. And finally practice writting essays and feature articles, even just for fun!

LiAnne

I would tell myself to just be myself and don't worry about what other people think of you. If they do'nt like you for who you are than they are a waste of time anyway. Study hard and try your hardest. Always stand up for what you believe in even if ou are the only one standing up for it! Over all just enjoy life and don't get caught up in doing what other people are doing.

Conor

I would have told myself not to worry as much, and that as long as I keep up what I was doing then, I would be fine there on out. I would have told myself to ask more questions, both in class as well as about Oregon. I would have encouraged talking to people who had gone there before me in order to adjust a little easier. The main thing I would have told myself would be to keep my mind open, at ALL times. I cannot believe how narrow viewed I was coming up here, but now I feel like I have been able to open up and see the world from a ways back. I would have told myself that with an open mind, and a down to earth attitude, you will meet amazing people and learn a lot about others as well as yourself. Thats all.

Jennifer

Apply for any and every scholarship that you qualify for! The first few months will be tough, being away from your family and friends is not as easy as you expected it to be. Keep your head up, you will meet new friends that you can count on. Study, study, STUDY because you def can't coast through college like you did high school. Enjoy the classes and the company and savor the late night roomate talks. Even when things get stressful and you feel like you have no control just cool it out and know that you will make everything work in the end. Oh and sophmore year be ready for the atrocious monster named "organic chemistry."

Rachel

Hi Rachel, Go for what you want! Just dive into everything you possibly are interested in and meet everyone you can! Don't over stress yourself this first year of college and work on building a good foundation socially and accademically, but avoid over working yourslef. This is a time for finding yourself and your place in this big school. Try lots of new things because that is why you came here! Set goals for yourself and do everything in your power to accieve them! You already know you work hard and that you will succeed so never doubt yourself! DON'T DO IT!!! If you do all these things there is no way you will not have a great time at college!

Megan

I would not make the mistakes I made in school and I would seriously advise myself to commute from my parents house since I am struggling for all my finances immensly.

Katherine

To apply to more schools and not be afraid of rejection. And to volunteer more.

Ivy

Don't stress about the whole process so much. College is what you make it.

Rochelle

Save as much money as you can before beginning college, and make the most of your experience. Meet people. Work hard. Learn as much as you can. Take advantage of all the college has to offer. Take a variety of classes to make sure you find out what you're best at and like the best for the long term.

Chelsie

Balance is the key to a successful college experience. There is nothing more important than learning how to have fulfilling friendships, while maintaining high standards for yourself in school academically. It is very important to keep focused while still enjoying your experience. If you cannot learn to network and develop friends you will not be as successful when placed in a social work environment. If you cannot stay focused and achieve high scores in your classes then you will also be unsuccessful, and unable to compete. Learning to do both early on will keep you from going overboard and dropping out, or being crippled by social awkwardness. Also- get involved with your local community. Talk to the elders and professionals in your community. Branch out from your campus, and make a good impression when you do. You never know who the people in your community are connected to in the outside world. It is a small world, fostering relationships may be another key to finding your dream job.

Leah

I would tell myself to focus on relationships, because they are integral parts of succeeding in college, and making it a memorable experience. I would also tell myself not to stress about small things, and to not bother with 8am courses. I would also tell myself to enjoy the weirdness of the UO dorms, as I will never ever live with such characters again. I would also tell myself to get involved in an international student group, to start expanding my cultural sphere with lots of people while in college. Lastly I would tell myself to not be afraid of the professors. I never took advantage of going to their office hours, and regret that. I know now as a graduate student that they really do want to help you, but I was always so intimidated by them.

Caroline

I would tell myself to take it easy, you are doing a great job, quit stressing out.

Leslie

I would tell myself to meet as many people as possible and try to maintain friendships with them. There are so many interesting people at colleges with stories different than my own and networking is a great tool to find a job post-graduation. I did not sturggle too much with the transition but I would remind myself that home will always be there and this is the time to explore the world and learn new things about myself. I would tell myself to take risks and explore everything the University has to offer. Don't be afraid to try new things and go to as many school functions as you can to broaden your experience and get a feel for the community your now living in. I would also tell myself to work hard in my studies and stay on top of the work load but not to stress out too much, the work will get done and you'll gain knowledge from every class you attend.

Sanja

I believe that I was properly prepared for college and experienced all the things I expected to come my way. If I was a high school senior again, I would tell my self not to stress so much over school. I'd say, "Sanja, as long as you go to class and do your homework, I promise you that you will receive a good grade. Study as much as you can, but don't over study yourself. It only gives you stress and grey hair. Wake up each day with a smile on your face and deal with each day individualy. Don't live in despair, because if you are in despair, you will never be able to experience what is infront of you. "

Carsey

As a senior in high school, I was relatively unprepared but luckily my transition was extrememly smooth. I would tell myself to make sure I went through sorority recruitment because my involvement in sorority life has been a wonderful experience that has gotten me involved in campus life and community service. I would have also told myself to take as many Advanced Placement classes that I could in order to be ahead of schedule for recieving my degree, and to save money. I have always been horrible at confronting people, and I would have encouraged myself to not be afraid to ask my dorm roommate to turn her t.v. off when I was doing homework! Regarding my degree, I would have liked to have done more research on careers of interest and how I would go about completing those degrees, such as Nursing. It was nice to be able to explore different classes, but I would have liked to have been better prepared for my major and career choice. The University of Oregon was the perfect school for me, and if I could have told myself to get ready for the best years of my life, I would've!

Melissa

Just lighten up and work hard. Expect to become friends with some really random people. Do not judge anyone at BC by looks, because that system will always fail. Be prepared to grow intellectually, spiritually, emotionally, and spiritually, and be prepared for it to hurt. Save money wherever you can now-you'll need it in a few years. Smile at everyone. Listen when people talk. Go on Koininia. Don't be afraid of people who are more pious than you-learn from them, and see how you can grow from what they have to say. Do flashcards at least once a day. Don't read schoolbooks in bed. Don't do homework with friends. Play volleyball at times when sane people are sleeping. Go for long walks in Abbey Land with people you love. Take a Red Cross course- your friends are going to have lots of health problems. Have an idea of what to say before you call your mom or there will be awkward silences. Don't try to write flowery essays when you have space constraints....there's too much to say. Watch Mystery Science Theater- it will change your life. Take risks. Keep moving forward.

Shayne

make sure you learn good study skills, because if you were used to cruising through school, you are going to hit a roadblock once you get to college.

Jennifer

I would definetly tell myself that it is extremely important to start out on a good foot. Getting good grades in the beginning will help you be more successful later in life. I would also tell myself that studying and attending all classes is very important to, and pertinent to your academic success.

Alyssa

Going back in time, I am very glad I took AP courses in high school. Not only were they structured similarly to a basic college course, but they helped me to prepare myself to think critically about what I was learning. Knowing what I do now, I would advise myself to really look ahead. I had a few career/major paths I wanted to go, I would have researched more about them in high school. I would also advise myself to not be afraid of just putting myself out there. I would tell myself to get involved quickly, but don't push it. Maybe get involved with one volunteer group and an IM sport, or even join student government. Another piece of advise to myself would be to figure out a study method that works really well for me quickly. Even play around with some methods in high school, so I would know what works for me. The last thing I would tell myself is to get a planner/calendar and write everything from the stuff on my syllabi to extra curricular activities on it and STICK TO IT. Time management is very important. Lastly, have fun and enjoy it!

Haley

Don't worry. College is going to be the best time of your life. You will make friends and settle down into college life much easier than you think. You're going to love your classes. The professors here are dedicated to their students and want to help you learn. Everyone at this school is here for a reason, and that makes it great atmosphere, both in the classroom and around campus. You will have to work hard to do well, but you'll enjoy it so much that most of the time you'll hardly feel like it is work. Take the classes you want; you'll do better if you're actually interesting in the material. Go to the football games because they'll be some of the best memories you'll have of this school. Get involved with other students as much as you can because they'll help you through the difficult stuff. Overall, you should relax and not worry about the transition to college. Always try your best and don't forget to believe in yourself.

Kari

The most important thing I would tell myself is to search high and low for scholarships. Paying for school and finding ways to do so is so much more important than I had thought and this search hadn't been something that I really tried to submerse myself in. Now that I know about study abroad programs that I plan on utilizing next year, I have to search harder than I had thought one could in order to pay for experiences that could shape my life. I would also want my senior self to know how different people are outside the world I have grown up in. I would want myself to be fully open to meeting people with different experiences and be ready to envelope those people with whatever friendship I could give. Coming into school I don't think I realized how many people I would be meeting and how different their life experiences are from mine. Having said that, I would want myself to take in the stories that these people tell and appreciate the differences between us while being grateful for the experiences my life has given me.

Elisabeth

Take what you've been given and make the best of it. I know this school may not be your first choice, it may not even have been your second choice, but realize the opportunity you have in front of you. Take all the positives and understand that no matter where you go, it's going to be different, it's going to be new, and it's going to be hard. Keep your mind open to what your classes have to offer and keep your ears open to what the world has to say. Everyone you meet has a story that you can learn from. Some of those people will become some of the best friends you've ever known because they're growing too. They understand who you are now and who you want to become. At this school, you can become that person if you open yourself to all that's offered. And don't forget the most important thing of all - just breathe.

Cambria

As a masters student now, looking back at the beginning of my collegiate career, I would tell myself to calm down and embrace the experience. During my undergraduate work, I did not get to know my professors nor sought out the stores of knowledge they held. I did not fully utilize my rich library, a failing I am frantically making up for now. I did not engage in the classroom as I am now required to do. My shakey voice confirms my inexperience. I sincerely wish I would have breathed deeply and stretched each experience, each class, each text, each party for its own wealth of adventure. I would breathe in deeply and allow myself the luxury of learning. Letting wisdom sink in with each steady learning experience instead of moving on immediately to the next deadline, the next requirement. I know these things now: calm and breath and adventure. I hope my graduate experience will reflect my effort to overcome this past regret; not allowing the regret to overwhelm this new stage, but to instead use it as a catalyst for the educational experience that will thrill me for the rest of my life.

Josef

I would tell myself to stay focused and not to procrastinate on enjoying my college experience freshman year. College is about more than school, but school is a huge part of it. I would make sure and tell myself to learn a little bit more about taking care of myself and about work ethic. You have to work hard, stay focused, and spend any extra time you get on doing schoolwork. That way, when it comes time to participate in something social you want to do, you have the time to do it. Get involved in everything that you can and tryout for the rugby team. I would tell myself to work incredibly hard at school, learn as much as I can, enjoy the college experience, and make as many lifelong friends as possible.

Heather

Knowing what I know now I would tell my high school self to major in psychology right away. I would also tell them to explore all the resources my college has to offer. Join clubs, get involved in student groups and department opportunities. I would also tell my high school self to look into studying abroad early on.

Wesley

It is ideal to choose a school where you personally feel the most comfortable. You shouldn't choose a college or university simply based on what major will give you the best job or make the most money. Instead, choose a college or university that has a major that you are personally interested in. Even if you want to major in something unique like art or dance or literature, you shouldn't feel ashamed or embarrassed. People may tell you to major in something very practical like business or journalism, but college is really the time in your life to try something new. It's not necessarily about what is the most practical, but instead it's about what you personally want to do. In the end, you will find that college is a place to experiement and find something that you are passionate about. It is completely understandable if you are having financial difficulties, but I would encourage students to move away to college instead of staying in a hometown. Don't stay in your hometown if you don't have to, and DO NOT stay because of a boyfriend/girlfriend. This is your chance to see something new.

Emma

First, I would make absolutely sure that you want to go to college and it's right for you. Otherwise, you're just wasting a lot of money. Then, take the classes you want to take. Don't worry about what courses will get you the degree that will make you the most money in the end. College is for the joy of learning.

Clyde

My advise to incoming freshman students at any particular college is to think about the reasons why you want to go there, and do this choosing a variety of colleges. Then begin to search from those Universities that you've chosen of what kind of degree you are looking for? Look for financial aid so they can help you in your studies so that you would not let money stop you from reaching your dream of getting a degree in any field becoming whatever you wanted to be. So always look for other alternative ways to help you through your years in college ; as well there are people in all the Universities who are train to help you in any circumstance that comes your way while you're in college.

Kim

During high school, I made a big deal out of searching for that "perfect college." My mom was kind enough of to take me around the country, visiting the schools that were on the top of my list. I looked at colleges from Humboldt State in California to Barnard College in NYC. I knew one thing, and that was that I wanted college to be an adventure--I didn't want to go to an in-state school. As deadlines quickly approached, however, I became more aware of daunting private school tuitions. I was an above average student, but I just didn't think my credentials would be enough to come up with any substantial merit money. Discouraged by this, I decided on an in state school. While my first-year college experience wasn't bad, deep down I knew I had let myself down. Because of this, I didn't approach college life with the enthusiasm and passion that would have made all the difference. Four years of in-state college costs roughly $80,000. Don't take that lightly. Create the college experience you've dreamed of and don't ever settle for anything less.

Kelsey

A lot of students make the huge mistake of chosing a college based on pretigious reputations, partially because of pressure from parents, and partially because of pressure from society. While we are young, many students are forced to believe that the only way to be successful is to make a lot of money by getting a good job, which is attained by a degree from a "brand-name" college. Many students do not realize that college is more than just 4 years towards a piece of paper boasting a degree. It is about the entire experience. College is the place where students go to learn academically AND socially. To make the most of the college experience, one must find a place in which he or she truly thrives in. It is not always about strictly academics, but also the impact one makes on the world through personal development and life-long friendships and memories.

Brian

What is the student interested in, instate tuition is much more affordable, come to the Univerity of Oregon.

Zach

My advice is very simple: go with your gut. The only factor that you should really follow is that instint that you have that tells you whether or not a place is right for you. If you feel like being in a certain city, and that's the place you really want to be regardless of whether or not the school has the programs you want etc., than you should be there. FOllow your heart and everything else will follow.

Tyra

Don't just think about what you want to be after college, think about who you are and how you would feel in a certain campus. I am very academic, but turned down an offer from a prestigious East Coast school because I did not feel I would do well in a cut-throat academic situation, such as the ones presented by those schools. I chose instead a smaller university with a more communal approach to education, where everyone contributes to the learning process and tries to share and help everyone out, and I think it did me more good than the pressure of competition from classmates. Sit around a coffee shop on campus and look at and listen to the type of people who come in and out and see if you can see yourself with or as one of those people. Even if you're not excited about living in the dorms, live in them and figure out how you can live with other people from different backgrounds, and embrace the possibilities the dorms offer, such as the opportunity to meet people and make some of the best friends you'll have in college.

Cameo

Chicken Pot Pie: A Recipe for College Success Ingredients: For Crust: An Important Surrounding and Decision 3 cups of starting the process early, examine options and don?t get overwhelmed ? cup of figuring out whether the environment cultivates extracurricular activities 3 teaspoons of finding out what the average class size and student to teacher ratio 4 tablespoons of checking out financial options, many opportunities exist 2 cups of encouraging campus visits, the best way to fully explore any college ? cup of examining crime rates, safety is key, know what resources are available 1 cup of seeing how learning is presented, interdisciplinary course work allows for a variety of ways to learn For Filling: Making the Most of the Experience 4 cups of getting involved, college is what one makes it 2 teaspoons of including extracurricular activities and nonacademic pursuits ? cup of creating study groups, maintain contacts for research projects 2 ? cups realizing that self-motivation is essential to succeed ? tablespoon of taking courses that link academic with personal enjoyment 1 cup of realizing that deciding one?s major isn?t essential the very first day Directions: Preheat oven to 425 Mix all ingredients together. Enjoy the flavor of success!

Kelly

Be willing to get uncomfortable for a while, make new friends, be open and willing to experience new things, but sure make you are fully aware of your own values and morals so that you do not find yourself in compromise situations. GIve your school at least two years before you decide to change, unless it is absolutely, terribly unbearable. However, most of the time, you can find that you will like your school after two years.

Cassandra

Finding the right college is really based on what your looking for in an education and also other activities that you wish to be a part of. I believe that it's very important to visit the college you want to attend and stop and visit with some of the students there, it makes the experience very really and they are able to answer pretty much any question that you have about the school. If you already know what your planning on majoring in then finding a school with a great background or program with that degree would be helpful, i do not recommend a trade school because if you change your mind its harder to transfer somewhere else, that's why universtities are so nice they have many options and most of them have excellent degrees in all areas.

Nana

I would suggest visiting the campus and talking to current students. Often you can get a good idea of what to expect when you have been surrounded in the environment. And to make the most of your experience I would say GET INVOLVED! There are many student organizations that provide you a social network and positive ways to impact your society.