University of South Florida-Main Campus Top Questions

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

Marya

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a senior in high school I would tell myself to get involved in more activities so I could be prepared to be involved in college and be able to balance the school work which I would be given. I would also tell myself to retake the ACT and SAT. There are plenty of scholarships out there that could be won with a high score on those tests. My study habits would definitely have to change. There should be no memorizing the text or examples, but actually learning the material because there is no "memorizing" in the Nursing program.

ashley

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to apply to the University of South Florida. Due to the fact that neither of my parents went to college, I had to learn everything on my own for the first time. I would definitely tell myself to start looking for any form of scholarships available, and continue to keep searching. I would tell myself to work more to save up for college, and learn how to manage my money because it gets very expensive living on your own. I also wouldn?t fail to mention not to take such a heavy load because it?s fairly easy to fall behind on your school work when you have so much coursework. I would also tell myself that friends are important to make, but not more important than my studies- that has to come first. Most importantly I would tell myself not to stress too much and to take it easy because these are going to be the best years of my life.

Marlon

The advice that I would give myself as an high school senior is to go straight to the University of South Florida, instead of Miami Dade College. I would have given myself that advice because I would have finished college within a four year time period. Miami Dade College did not prepare me well enough for the University of South Florida, and most of the lower courses that I needed for my major were taken at the University of South Florida. I would have explained to myself that there was a great sum of money wasted at Miami Dade College from scholarships, financial aid, and money out of pocket that would have been better utilized at the University of South Florida. That is why I now advise many students that in the transition phase from high school to the college life.

Carlos

Change your studying habits in college. You have to work ten times harder to get an average grade in the university level. Get involved in school, but be wary of people who will try to influence you to not focus on your classes. Many people are wasting their time in college, do not allow them to waste your time. Be careful who you associate yourself with, there are many people who abuse the large number of people on campus and have hidden agendas. Do not be afraid to be a leader, you have leadership skills within you that you are not even aware exist. Take on new challenges and do not be afraid to do things that your peers will not accept, part of growing up is doing what you want to do and not what your peers think is acceptable or cool. Network to whoever you can for the day your graduate. Apply for opportunities and try them out even if you end up deciding that the opportunity you get is not for you. Believe in yourself because your belief is what will carry you forward through the hard times in college.

Adam

Ten minutes. That is all the time I would need to go back in time and talk to myself in 12th grade. Back then I was extremely introverted and did not have many friends and it made highschool a terrible time in my life. Yet now in college I find myself a member in the largest fraternity on campus, a girlfriend of over 18 months, steady job and high GPA. How I changed from that introverted high school senior to the happy and healthy college junior are some of the best times in my life and to be honest I wouldn't want to change them for the world. What I would tell 12th grade me is that everything will work out and to just follow my heart and make smart decisions, I would let him find out the rest on his own because it is like a good movie that you just do not want to know the ending to it before getting to even see the first scene. Although 12th grade me would probably be quite upset with me for not saying more, in the end he will understand.

Caitlin

As a high school senior, I had pretty much given up on the concept of entering into a huge university. Imagine my surprise when I got my first acceptance letter from the University of Central Florida (I did withdraw from here for financial reasons after I completed my first semester). Then, I probably would have told myself not to be so scared to ask questions and visit that senior counselor more often for advice. Likewise, I would have definatley advised myself to apply early and get those volunteer hours in! I would have told myself not to be so scared - take risks, don't take things so seriously! There's always hope for a new chance in life. As a high school senior I also would have told myself to spend more time with my family and cherish the short, precious time I have with them. But above all, I would have told myself not to be ashamed of who I was; to be proud of my accomplishments, shortcommings, fears, and tears. These would just become the mortar to my foundation...

guerda

apply for financial aid early! and don't slack off in classes. Also, sell my books early.

Alison

I was a very determined high school student with high expectations for myself, but if i were to give myslef advice about making the transition I would have to say use the facilities that are available to you from the beginning. I just started to learn this year, my second year, how much my school has to offer. I was paying thirty dollars a month for a gym membership when I could go to the gym for free at school. Also there are so many computer labs that are available instead of dragging my computer to school. And finally, start off the semester by finding a study group, you can always study by yourself but an additional few hours of studying with a group offers more opinions to a class that will help you be more open for the exam.

Victoria

I would tell myself to really focus and strive for the top. I would also tell myself to hold strong in my faith because it will be tested but as long as you have the Lord with you, you will conquer any obstacles that come your way.

Lauryn

College is extremely challenging if you want it to be. If you want to be successful you have to study hard and get your priorities straight.

Dylan

If i could go back to high school and give myself advice about college first I would have researched the school i wanted to go to morei n depth. I would have gone to a college that has a film school. My university has a news based program. Second I would have been more outgoing in my first two years of college. I found that in the past two years, being more outgoing and open to new people and ideas has made my experience much more enjoyable. Third I would have taken more online classes. They are easy, you can take them at your own pace in most cases and you don't have to worry about driving around the parking lot for twenty minutes looking for a parking spot.

Emily

I would first off congradulate myself on graduating High School. I would also tell myself to stay on track and remember to be focused about school work before anything else. I would also tell myself to set dreams for myself and know that with hard work and commitment I will be able to do whatever I want. I would also tell myself that life will always be changing and remember that things happen for a reason and to not take change so hard, just go with it. I would also remind myself to stay involved with swimming and not let work become a prioity. And tell myself that the future is everything that I want it to be so make it happen.

Pooja

If I was still a senior, I would tell myself not to procrastinate. I did it throughout high school, but I made it through. In college, it will not help you to leave work behind or blow off assignments and studying thinking that you will get it done later. There are too many distractions in college to be able to focus if you do not give yourself enough time, so just don't leave work behind.

Christopher

I would tell myself to save up more money and have a clear idea of what I want to do with my school career. I would also advise not to waste time on making decisions - time is money. Being shy is a huge prohibiter to making friends and networking, which has a direct effect on potential job opportunities. Travel more and look into all potential opportunities. Apply for more scholarships and do it every semester. Start with your own ideas of jobs and don't wait on classes to start - be an entrepreneur.

Chelsea

People wish at one point in their life that they could go back and either redo or undo something that they did in the past. On the contrary, others believe that "what happened, happened and one should live life with no regrets." Unfortunately, I wish I could go back to my senior year in high school and give myself advice with the knowledge I have pertained from being in college for a few semesters. One of the main things I wish I could tell myself was to not give up when it came to the AP tests at the end of the year. I believe that if I would have applied myself more, I would not have to take the unnecessary classes that I am in now such as English, History or Biology. By having to retake these classes, I am losing beneficial time that I could be using to apply to my major. Also, I wish I would have gotten more involved in highschool such as sports or just in student council because I never pushed myself that extra step to become a leader on campus. But everyone learns from their mistakes and that?s what I am doing!

Megan

Make sure to set aside time to study! College is not like high school. It takes more of a time dedication, especially the higher you go in your courses. Make friends with people who will be majoring in the same thing. These people can tell you what professors to avoid and how hard the class really will be. Make friends with the people in your classes and don't think you are a nerd if you want to start a study group. In high school, study groups weren't cool, in college, they are important! Don't try to re-invent yourself. Everyone thinks you can go away to school and start over and re-invent yourself. The transition can be hard enough without having to establish a whole new personality as well.

Lauren

Take the words and advice from others into consideration, but do not take them to heart, and never change yourself for anyone!

Angela

The two most important tips that I could give to a high school senior who is gearing up for college would be to be open and social and always remember that no one will do anything for you, you need to do it yourself. If you don't make an appointment with your advisor, they won't remind you or make one with you and you'll fall behind. You have to be self-motivating and proactive. Always ask questions! And be open and social. Sometimes, it's not what you know but who you know. College is a great place to do some social networking. This tips will help the college experience to be fulfilling and smoother. And remember that the college experience is a learning one, in the classroom and outside too. Take everyday to be a chance to work on your knowledge, social skills, and other tools for life. By doing so, you'll prepare a brighter future and have great memories to keep!

Joanna

Joanna: You should research the opportunities that high school can offer in order to succeed in college. Take advantage of the AP courses offered, and make sure you take the classes that will give you a background for what you plan to study in college. Also try to take some elective AP courses, since you will probably have to take some of the science AP classes in college again. However, if you take some electives, you can focus more on your major than spending the first two years taking electives in college. You also want to get into medical school, so make sure that you keep your studying habits because there is a lot to be done in that department in college. And one more thing, you always wanted to do something big, and college is your chance to do it. Take advantage of all of the opportunities college offers you.

Melissa

I would tell myself to get better study habits. Those have been tough to learn since getting into college.

Brittany

The on-campus housing is terrible. Be sure to live off-campus. You are also less likely to get involved in any of the insane drinking parties that are on campus, and you get a lot more for your money when you live off campus.

Shandra

I would advise myself to jump straight into the college life and not drag it out as i have ended up doing. i would tell myself that i can achieve whatever i want in life and that you have to be willing to try new things and not listen to others who seem to be pesimistic about your goals in life. i would tell myself to work and save money so that i wouldn't have to rely on student loans and end up in the debt that i will be in when i finish because i didn't act wisely.

Marilyn

If I was a high school senior again I would have given myself plenty advice based on my college years. I would have told myself to not take the easy road and take all those easy classes I didn?t need and would have taken the more challenging classes to keep my brain challenged. I would also advise myself to take life more seriously and take the initiative to be more involved in my future by keeping my grades up, applying for scholarships, and better prepare myself for the real world. I would basically advise myself to be more serious and not take my senior year as a free pass but an opportunity that will never happen again. Taking more AP and dual enrollment courses would also have been good advice for me considering the fact that taking classes such as those gives you a small head start on your road to your degree. Volunteering and joing activities would not hurt either.

Katie

I would tell myself not to stress so much about entering college. I was so worried about moving out onto my own into a big city that I didn't really think of all the positive things that would come from it. I would also tell myself to take in everything in high school because college is a whole other world. The biggest piece of advice that I would give myself would be to get out there and meet new people the first few weeks of school. When I first came here I was shy and was unsure of how to meet and greet all of the new people that surrounded me. Now, however, I regret not taking the time to attend certain events and break out of my shell. College life is amazing and I wouldn't trade it for anything. I just need to let myself know that I can do anything I put my mind to. One last thing, study study study!

Daniel

I would tell myself, don't waste time with friends, take the classes you need so you can graduate fast.

Kalena

If I could have only one conversation, I would tell my high school self to do whatever you want, and do not listen to anyone else. Take your own future into your own hands. I know if I tried to offer advice, I wouldn't listen. I would rather make the same mistakes over again and learn from them, than to worry constantly about staying on the right path. I would however, tell myself that a boy is never worth it ;) Friends are wonderful supporters whether one realizes it or not, and you always have your family. What better advice could I possibly give?

Dat

College or university is a very different environment than highschool is. Students need to be preapared for college level while they are in highschool. They need to know how to manage their time, know how to do research, do their own homework and make sure to turn in on time. That would help them to have a good habit, so when they go to college or university, those rules will be always applied. If possible, they should ask their school's counselor, who can give them a lot of recommendations on what they should do during highschool senior year and what they need to know about college. They should not wait until the last minute. The earlier they work on this, the better their future is. Besides, they should learn how to earn scholarships to help their tuition. By that way, they don't have to work a lot, but they can save time for study while in college. Last but not least, they should declare a major or they should know what they have passion with. That would help them to take courses that they need in college, not wasting time on other classes that they don't need.

Jennifer

Not to rush into school until I research what field I would truely like to be in. It took me along time and money to find out what field I was passionate about. Mostly due to pressure from parents and family along with the fact I was not ready to decide what was best for me yet, I had to grow up some.

Antonio

Hi, this may be a little scary for you but believe it or not I am you in the future. I need you to listen to me and please take my advise to the extreme. I have been given the oppurtunity to come here back in time to give you some very useful advise for you are not taking school as serious as you should. College is no joke my friend and neither is your grades. What I am trying to say is, you need to start taking your classes more serious and apply yourself. You are about to ruin your chances of obtaining free money to help pay for college. Yes I said free money. but the only way you are going to be able to do this is by raising your grades, focusing more and applying yourself. Also dont worry about going out and having fun there will be plenty of opportunities for that, trust me. So please apply yourself and take school more seriously, for I guarentee you this one thing, It will only benefit you and your future. I have to get going now for I have a project to finish for my Architecture class.

Petar

Make sure you take harder classes and take high school more seriosly because preparation for college starts then if not earlier!

Sandra

I would tell myself to slow down, in high school I was a part of the International Baccalaureate program and in this manner, was in a mind frame that my best was not enough, that college was this grueling battlefield for which I was training. I took the hardest classes and studied to the point of exhaustion, sleeping a few hours a night, taking fervent notes in class, doing homework for hours and community service in my free time. What disgusts me in retrospect was the fact that I only volunteered my time to log hours for the program and not to aid my community, the aim of my every action was my gpa. Now that I'm past all of that, and in college, I can look back and realize that college is not what I envisioned it to be, for the most part it is a lifestyle. I study twice as much as I studied back then yet I am involved on campus, I volunteer to better the people around me not my record. I study to learn and not to make the grade, verily I am growing as a person and for that I am eternally grateful.

Brittany

My advise is don't declare a major before entering college & keep thinking about what it would be like to use that major. Would it be fun or like a living nightmare? Never limit yourself to only obtain one major because people change and so do minds, especially after experiencing activities involving that major. College isn't cheap and one needs to strive to graduate within five years. Also, if you need help, don't procrastinate. Help there and most colleges pay for it so that you don't. Help doesn't make you look dumb; however, not asking for help when you need it does. Another tip is don't wait till two weeks before exams to finish all of the term papers. It is rough trying to work on three research papers, with the same due date, and not get the sources mixed up. Lastly, do not go home after your first week of attending college. The quick trip causes many people to miss home more and not want to go back. Yes, it's hard leaving friends and family behind, but look at the new students around you. They will be your new best friends, trust me.

Alexandra

College is a lot easier than high school and college is not all its cracked up to be. It is relatively boring, the professors appear unfamilar with their material and no one else knows what is going on.

Jessica

I would tell myself to take the chance and live on campus. I've always wondered what it would be like to live away from family and live on campus and enjoy that part of college life. I would tell myself to stop being so shy and open up more, open my mind to new ideas and possibilities. USF has changed how I am, has opened my social circle and increased my overall knowledge and philosophy.

Sophie

To make sure not to get so pulled into the freshman college life. Not to party as much and to focus more on school.

Catherine

Don't be afraid to try new things. Clubs weren't your favorite activities to be a part of, but they are really beneficial to your overall experience at college. Don't be afraid to fail. It might be tough not getting "straight A's," but you know that you're intelligent and what really matters is what you learn from it all. Don't waste time worrying about the future. You'll be prepared no matter what classes you take. Finally, have fun, enjoy yourself, and live life the best that you can. You can only be young and in college once so make the best out of this experience :).

Michael

To live in a dorm for the first year because you will make friends for a lifetime. I would also tell myself not to let lecture classes intimidate me. As long as you attend the lectures, do the assignments that are given, and study hard, there is no reason for you to be scared. Last thing I would tell myself is to make friends by joining clubs.

Jonathan

Do your best and take advantage of your college experience as much as possible.

Ashley

I would tell myself to go to a college that best fits your personality. You are only in college once, so go somewhere that will make you happy and meet all you expectations. Even though saving money is important, the cheapest college isn't always the best choice. Go to your dream school, and you will enjoy every bit of your college experience. Once you are in college, make sure to get involved as soon as possible. Join a sorority or any other student organizations that will allow you to make friends for a like time. These friends will become your "family" while you are away from home. Moving to a new town and not knowing anyone is scray, but by joining a organization, such as a sorority, you will feel less alone. The most important advice I would give myself would be to focus on your goals. Your goals are the reasons you are attending college in the first place. You are here to learn, so make sure your education is a top priority. Also, do forget who you really are. Don't let people change the person you were born to be.

Felicia

The advice I would give myself would be to always plan ahead, stay focused and ASK FOR HELP. In high school I was an excellent student with 3.5-3.6 GPA and I took it all for granted. I assumed that college would be the same as high school. I was completely wrong. College was nothing like high school. My first semester in college my GPA dropped to about 2.3-2.5. I procrastinated a lot and I REFUSED to ask for help. I was independent and too strong willed. I felt like I could do it all by myself. I never had anyone talk to me about what to expect when I went to college so when I started, I felt like I was blindsided with the material and workload from my teachers. I finally got the hang of how college worked my sophomore year. I was able to raise my GPA up, I took my work more seriously and I learned how to ask for help. It turned out to be a positive experience for me. My rough transition eventually smoothed out because I began to focus more on my intital reasonings for going to college.

Alexander

The advise I would give myself would be, a long with studying goes self rewards. Everyone needs a break sure tons of students concentrate on studying so much but the best thing to do is take a break and let everything absorb in.

Aesop

Opportunity to interact with various culture is out there. go and explore more to learn and have more fun.

Jazmin

College life is not as difficult as many people make it seem. The professors and teacher's assistants know that you are knew to the school you choose so they do not expect you to be a college student pro. The teachers are also amazing at what they do. They truly have an interest in their field, their work, and most importantly: YOU. The convenient thing about college classes is that each professor has a time slot where you are permitted to speak with them personally. This helps a lot! Furthermore, don't be afraid that you are losing all of your friends. It is easy to keep in touch, and so much fun to meet new people! College provides many opportunities, so get excited!

Courtney

If I could go back to give myself advice about college I would make sure to remind myself to relax. When applying for colleges and scholarships I was extremely stressed and I forgot to take note of what I was doing. I mean, applying for college should be a memorable time, but for me it was awful. I did not take moments to spend time with my friends or be a high school student. I would tell myself to have more fun, be more carefree, and make sure to live a little. College is truly not as frustrating or challenging as I expected and I wish that I could go back and tell my high school self to enjoy that first day and not go home crying. I sincerely wish that someone had been there just to tell me to relax and enjoy every moment because they fly by.

Quanika

The first thing I would tell myself is to not get pregnant, which I did my freshman year. It's hard being in college with a young child, but luckily I have a good support system and am able to do it. But I would tell myself to be careful. Just because I'm out on my own doesn/t mean I can neglect the things I've been tought by my elders. I'd tell myself to make sure I get involved in extracurriculars, and to be more outgoing. I was very shy going into college and still am. I don't have many friends there but once I get back on campus, I'm going to be alot more social. I'd also tell myself to find new study techniques. High school work and college work are in two different ballparks, I better get prepared for the change in pace.

Erin

If I could go back to talk to myself in high school, I would give myself the advice to go to a community college while completing the pre-requisites needed for every college student. When students go right into a University they have to choose a major and it makes them spend more money because usually decisions are changed. I have wasted so much scholarship money on classes that don't count towards my major. I would tell myself to enjoy every second of my last year in high school, once students are college bound the fun part of life is over, its right into the real world. I have never been one to be a party girl, so as far as that goes I have no regrets. I would tell myself that I need to study and prepare to possibly make B's and C's instead of A's, saying it doesn?t make me a failure. Also, to know that everyone will go their separate ways and I have to deal with the losses. Although all of these are negative, I would say that college is still quite a different experience and can be positive at times.

Joyce

Be open to all experiences, and take opportunities as they come. Be diligent and make specific goals about who you want to be. Surround yourself with friends who are compassionate, disciplined, creative, innovative, and fun-loving. Always be honest with yourself.

MeLisa

Don't be so eager to grow up, just take it slow and stay focus on your goals in life. You need to know why you're there and and don't let anything or anybody get in the way of that. Main things is to stay FOCUS and have the DETERMINATION to make it through.

Cameron

I would tell myself to work hard and keep studying. Take every oppurtunity to better your future. This means scholarships, grants, and financial aid. Have fun in high school and try to get involved as much as you can. Hanging out with your friends are fun, but always know that your future is the most important part. It's too easy to get side tracked, get a planner and try to manage out your time as best you can. College is a wonderful time in your life, love it and experience as much as you can, but don't get caught up in the partying and going out or you'll be forced to leave. Whatever your dream is, try your utmost hardest to reach it. This means finding every outlet to make it possible. Aside from academic activities, try your best to balance it with friends and social engagements. And last, aside from graduation requirements, participate in hobbies, get a job, and try to get as much knowledge and practical life and job experience as possible!

Jacklyn

you will love it, and make the best out of it