Utah Valley University Top Questions

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

Amy

It has been ten years for me since I attended high school. I attempted to take college courses when I was first out of high school, but I was afraid to really get involved. If I could give my high school self some advice it would be to not be so afraid. My second time around incollege has been considerably more engaging because I have been more open to the several resources that are available to college students. I have made an effort to get to know each of my professors and use the help that hey offer. I have found that professors genuinely care about their students and want to help them in any way possible. I have also discovered that there are so many resources around campus that are just waiting to be used. I have had the opportuinity to use many of these resources over the last few years and to become much more involved in school. If I had done this the first time I attended college I probably would have been much more successful. Being involved in school and getting to know people around campus is important in making college a memorable and engaging experience.

Aasim

Even if I could go back into time, their wouldn't be any advice I would give myself honestly. Leaving highschool I was already determined to make myself known and established at this University. Chose this University when I was in the tenth grade and failure was just never an option for me. I seen my vision and began my quest to conquer. Everyday I wake up, thank God then repeat one statement that's always on my mind, "With nothing standing in the way of my success but me, I will never fail." Thank You

Amanda

Keep on doing good in school. Get good grades, turn in your homework on time, get enough sleep at night. Make sure to take a fun class each semester. You'll be graduating before you know it!

Kevin

I would say to myself: Know what you want before you go to college.

Jeremy

As I said before, plan out your education ahead of time! Don't switch between majors like it will not have any effect on your education, every choice you make, every class you take, every grade you get factors into the rest of your schooling and your choices in post-graduate education. Focus, don't take classes just because they might be 'fun.' Think about what you really need to take to complete a degree, and finish your General Ed classes early so you can focus. But most importantly, learn, and not just from the teachers or books, but from your fellow students as well. And don't forget to enjoy furthering your education.

logan

Like most my senior year of high school didn't prepare me very well for college. If I had the chance to go back and give myself advice on how to prepare I would. First, I would give myself tips on how to study more effectively and get the most out of something in the shortest amount of time. Second, I would show myself how to be a better writer. Every class I have had in college requires essays and knowing the skills to writing an essay make college so much easier. Third, do not procrastinate. I think this is an issue everyone has in high school and needs to solved before going into college. If I had these three simple tips about college in high school, my first year of college would have been much easier. Overall, its the little things that matter the most and make the biggest difference.

Joshua

I have gone to college 3 times now, and this will be the fourth. I have a degree in nursing, started a degree in computer science, twice. The nursing degree was obtained out of financial necessity, although it is not even close to what I would like to do. Life will place obstacles in your path as you continue to grow. Take the opportunity you have while you are young to do whatever it takes to get what you want, while there are few life obstacles to overcome. I am now 30 years old, and finally doing what I want, becoming a professional pilot with a BA or more in Aviation Administration. The biggest thing I have learned is that it does not matter what other people think you have the potential for; we have the potential to do ANYTHING. Do what you will love; do what you want to spend the rest of your life pursuing. Life's obstacles will seem much smaller when they do not include the selection of a means to a successful financial and career-oriented future.

Craig

If I was able to go back I would talk to myself about the importance of easing my way into college life. When I went from Highschool to college life I took on the hardest work load that I could, but between homework and my social life it was hard to get the best grades possible. So I would tell myself to get involved with the programs that the college offers to freshman, and to take an easier workload my first semesters.

Taylor

If only I knew that too much coffee and not enough sleep during exam week could result in mild hysteria, or that saving up money for classes is more important than spending it on a dress you thought was cute then. Yet, I think the advice that would've been most valuable to my naive freshman soul is that trying is the most important thing you can ever do. We hear it from the time we are born: "never give up . . . always try your hardest!" But is it ever put to the test? Upon entering college, I realized that taking a chance in the hopes for success, putting myself on the map - ready for humiliation - is the boldest, yet smartest thing I can do. Too often we let the fear of failure lead us down paths we never wish to find ourselves on. It's a frightening truth that daring to talk to people of higher status and making a name for ourselves is more important. Yet we must remember that even if it leads to failure, at least one can say "I tried my best." Because isn't failure, much like success, in the eyes of the beholder?

Samantha

If I were to experience the opportunity, I am sure most would die to have, to go back in time and converse with my 18 year old self, there would be so much to say. Having grown on a personal and spiritual level while attending college, I would first tell myself to keep my chin up and know that trials I experience in life will only make me stronger. No mater how discouraging a human anatomy class can be, or difficult balancing work and school proves, I would tell myself to charge ahead with confidence in my abilities and have open-mindedness towards others. Doing so will aid me in preparation for the professional world while simultaneously guiding me through the academic world. Now knowing the resources and study techniques that work best for me, I would place emphasis on using tutors, encourage myself to take charge and organize study groups, as well as give back by tutoring those in courses I have previously completed. Having a full time job whenever possible would be advised as well as saving every last cent, so that I might be in a place to study without the weight of financial insecurity hanging overhead.

Jessica

I would have taken more college classes in high school. I was given the opportunity but I refused because I wanted my senior year to be fun. Now that I know how expensive college tuition is, I wish I would have taken more college classes while I was in high school.

Jessica

Knowing what I know now about college, I would tell myself as a high school senior to work harder and get better grades. If it was possible, I would try and get into advanced placement courses so it can go towards my college credits. Knowing what I know now, I would tell myself not to slacked off, and pay more attention in class. The amount of money each class is in college, having as much college credits when you graduate high school is a major bonus. Knowing what I know now, I will warn myself as a senior to be prepared financially with college because that is what I am currently struggling with.

Katherine

I would advice to start applying and looking for scholarships right away! Dont take the time to apply, especially when applying for scholarships or financial aid because that is what will help you get through school without the stress of money. Also I would recommend applying to many places, and VISIT them before you make your decision so you can get a feeling on how you will like the enviornment. College is a big learning experience, but its also a essential time where you meet new people and make long lasting friends. Apply early so you get the best experience that you pay for.

Nicole

Dear Nicole, If you're reading this, you must be a high school senior. I want you to know what you're thinking and what you're going to experience. I've lived through everything you're going to live through and I want to give you advice. First of all, you're a senior so live it all. Be involved. Basketball is a big deal and you'll regret not going to the games. Football isn't going to do very well this year so just enjoy hanging out with your friends during and after the games. Start putting money away for college. Apply to many colleges, apply for many scholarships, and don't worry about college until it comes. I know you won't believe it but, Garrett is going to be super interested in you come graduation time. Have fun! Don't let the opinions of others change what you want to do. Be yourself and let others decide if they're going to love you for it. You're going to need to take Calculus during college because you will get into BYU. Take it your first or second semester.

Waheedah

I would give myself the advice of keep your grades up. Because if I would have kept my grades up and did more stuff in highschool I would have ended up in a university. But I do have scholarships though that fund me going to college, that I earned in highschool. I do thank god though that I am fortunate to go to any college, because I have scholarships. Starting off at a community college just sets you up for that next transition, cuz I did initially wanted to start off at a university, but god works in mysterious ways. But just never give up hope on college cuz their is a will or a way that you can make it there.

Micah

I have been in college for several years now. As such, there are a few bits of advice I would offer my senior self. Firstly, I would encourage myself to develop good study habits, and the time management and self-discipline that go with it. College work takes more time and effort than anything in high school. You can’t cram and expect to pull off the grade. Second, I would tell myself to get out there and make friends and accomplices, especially within your major. One of the best ways to study is to have a friend to do it with. Not only that, but when you are in the same major and classes you can rely on each other for missed work when you are absent or as a comparison with note taking. Third, I would tell myself to make connections with the professors. Many professors are willing to go out of their way to help you succeed, if they know that you are putting forth the effort and have a desire to do so. These are a few of the things I would tell myself if I could go back and talk to my senior self.

Tamara

I didn't want to go straight to college after high school and spent 25 years working in various positions without a degree (little/no benefits, poor wages, etc.) --some jobs I enjoyed, while others were not pleasant at all. I had a family (2 children) during this time. And many times I wished I had received higher education. I would tell my 18 year old senior self to "go to college now--attend every class--do your very best--get a degree--education is the key to success in this life--do it NOW!"

Mitchell

I would tell myself that I need to forget what the world wants me to be and focus discovering who I really am. I would tell myself to study more in school but not to forget that much of learning happens outside of the classroom in real-world and practical situations. I would tell myself that life is a great adventure, and that I have a world of opportunity at my fingertips. I can become anything I want to become if I only put my mind to it and put for the effort and sacrifice. I would tell myself that my attitude directly affects the outcome of all that I apply myself to. Ultimately I would tell myself the greatest secret to life. Life will pay me what I give it. This covers all aspects of life, educational, carrer, and social.

Charla

I am a striving young student ready to make a change in the world . I am planning on Majoring in Buisness Administration . I plan on minoring in Fashion Design . I also plan on getting my Real Estate liscense and practicing Real Estate in the Beverly Hills Area and opening up an Agency . I also plan on passing the bar so I can practice Law in the entertainment Industry . As You can see I plan on taking over the World. The Advice that I would give myself would be to go for it shoot for the moon at all cost . Never give up no matter what ! Study Hard now so you can enjoy life later . Igorance is Bliss . Education is the way . Stay in school until your nearly grey !

Thomas

Have fun in High School, get involved with clubs and sports. College is a lot harder to get into those activities because of friend social interactions and more focused time on school work is needed. Develop study habbits in high school, so that way you do not have to develop them in college where you are paying to go to school.

megan

I would tell myself to look for more scholarships so I didn't have to go into debt as far. I would tell myself to go to a college that some of my friends went to so I could still have a good relationship with them. I would apply for more colleges.

Kyleigh

Don't be afraid to stand out and talk to people. I used to be a very conservative person in regards to asking other people questions. I used to think that since I was a female aspiring to be a surgeon I always had to out-smart the person next to me. Asking questions to strangers, to me, was a weakness that I had to avoid showing. Also, I would tell myself to just go with the flow of college life and get involved. The most important thing to do is to get into a club in school or do a lot of service projects on campus. Just to make it plain and simple I would literally say, "Don't freak out, take it one day at a time, and reach out to anyone that you see if you need help or you think they would be a great friend."

Taylor

Like with the other question, I would make sure that I took note of UVSC/UVU's list of majors. That way, I would not have to spend one semester at a different college, and then deal with the transfer between the two schools. With the social transitions, I would tell myself that, despite the bonds that might have been made during high school, the truth is that most people lose touch with those that they knew well throughout high school. And while you shouldn't throw out all your old friendships come graduation, be prepared to see some people leave, and be prepared to find a new social life in college. The unfortunate truth is that not everyone is ready for the social change. I myself found it difficult to leave behind friends who I had known for years. Being unable to loosen those bonds while cause more harm than good in the long run. High school has come and gone, and college is the new social landscape for you.

Kassandra

I would tell myself that waiting and going into the military first is a smart plan, stick with it. Knowing what you want before attending college is the most importaint thing, it gives you focus and determination. I would also advise myself not to wait too long to get started. Young, single, not a parent is the easier course.

Callianne

I would tell my self to apply for more scholarships and apply to a different school.

Alicia

If I could talk to my old high school self I would have a lot to say. First of all I would warn myself not to eat the crab at Fresh Choice, that would have saved me two weeks of absences. Next I would tell myself to stop working so much and focus more on grades. Theres no point in making money if I can't get into a school that takes it. I would also tell myself to have more confidence in my abilities as a student. I can do it and I didn't realize that soon enough, and as my mother always tells me, "you are a smart and successful women that can acheive anything you want." But most importantly I would tell myself to stop and enjoy my last year of high school, maybe go to more dances or socialize a little more. In college there is not much time for that and I was not prepared enough for that transition. It is a scary time but as I prepare to transfer to a 4 year college I finally feel ready. So, me in the past, all you really need to know is you did it!

Ryan

Do your homework! Slacking off on your homework in high school might be pretty easy, but in college you can't! Homework takes so much time and dedication if you want to recieve a good grade and gpa. It isn't easy to want to take time away from family to study and do it, but it is so worth it when you do well. Because you slacked off in high school its so hard to want to do any homework now. You'd much rather go to sleep, or go out and do something fun with your wife and kids, But if you make a little sacrifice the reward is well worth it all!

Amanda

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to just keep doing what I was doing. As a high school senior I never focused too much time on wondering what I was going to wear for prom, I was more worried about my grades. I wanted to keep a high GPA and I did not want to "slack" like most kids do their senior year. I believe I tried my hardest and gave it my all, senior year was not easy but I pushed through the obstacles and I did not lose focus. I'm happy to say I met my goal and graduated top 15{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of my high school class, it is one of my greatest accomplishments. If I could tell myself anything it would just be words of encouragement, I would tell myself to keep running towards that goal and to never stop trying.

BrookeLynn

I would get myself to ask more questions, and talk to more people about what college would be like. I would have also started applying to scholarships, and found a job much quicker then I did.

James

I would tell myself to save as much money as possible. Starting to pay back student loans is stressful and is kind of demoralizing.

Keltzie

If I could go back and tell myself advice, I would say to start filling out scholarships early! I'd say to fill out a lot of scholarships and to just do a few a day. I would tell myself to try to learn more about my likes and dislikes; I would emphasize that the better I know myself, the easier it is to find out what career I want to pursue. i would tell myself that I've done good and that all my efforts would help me be successful. I would also tell myself how fun and exciting college is going to be! I would compliment myself on my efforts to get ahead in school, so that I would have a better attitude about my extra homework.

Kelli

If I could go back in time I would give myself two pieces of advice. First, would be that my family would be moving right after I graduated. I would immediately have to start working a full time job, which would then lead to 2 jobs and then eventually lead to working 45 hours or more a week just to survive. So my first piece of advice would be to save up as much money as possible. I am an extremely independent person and as such refuse to take student loans until absolutely necessary. So save your money! My second piece of advice is to just stick to it. College isn't as easy as high school. Not that the work is so much harder, but you won't have someone checking up on you. Don't get lazy! You are now responsible for your own work, so step up to the plate. Don't settle for the easiest grade, push and work for the best grade.

Kristie

Senior year is an amazing time. The hard part is you must be focused. This is a time for you to gain confidence in your study skills. College will be challenging. You are expected to do your best and actually learn. High school is easy in comparison. This year prove to yourself that you are smart and have exceptional study skills. Forming good habits will truly benefit you in college. Don't forget to make lasting relationships this year. Make sure you continue to make good friendships. In college it will be important to network and to feel comfortable talking with classmates, teachers, advisors, employers, and so forth. You must prepare yourself to take on the large responsibility of ruling your own life. This may seem like it will be a party, but you must be mature and motivated to do what is important. In college you need to get yourself to go to class, get yourself to fill out scholarships, get yourself to talk to teachers, get yourself involved. Be confident and get yourself a good education. Remember what is important. You will be successful in college if you work hard, get involved, and enjoy it!

Ariel

If I could go back to my high school self, I would tell myself to start applying for scholarships NOW! That way, financing school would be affordable. I would also tell myself to be social and outgoing, get involved in everything possible. Also, boys are not everything! I would let myself know to stay social with everyone and constantly be involved in church activities. Do not base my decisions on relationships! One last thing I would tell myself would be to spend my last summer home with family as much as I can. Strengthen family ties and relationships. When all else fails, Mom will always be there to make everything better.

Desney

If I could go back in time and talk to myself I would tell myself to apply for as many scholarships as possible. I would also tell myself that it's not easy you need to grow up, study hard, and do your best. It isn't all about having fun. College is a great experience to meet new people and make life long friends. Just be nice and you'll get through. I would say to myself everyone makes mistakes. What you do after you make the mistake is what really matters. Those are all the things I would tell myself.

Walter

I would try to pursuade myself to go to college first before entering into the United States Marines. I entered into the Marines because I believed that there was no money for me to attend college. It wasn't until after I completed my term with the Marines that I realized how much aid there was available out there. Athough my life as an enlisted Marine provided me with a wealth of expeirence and memories that I would not trade in a million years, I know that if I had become an officer in the Marines not only would life in the Marines have been a little easier but I would have remained in to complete a career to retierment. As it stands now, my injuries that I sustained while deployed to Iraq have limited my potential career opportunities.

Colt

Before entering college I had no idea how big this world of ours is! I found opportunities to volunteer already that allow me to contribute to society and feel better about myself. I've also learned the importance of sticking to a schedule, being punctual and being responsible. The more I get out of my college experience, the more I want to give back to my community and my nation. It has been worth every penny so far and doubt that will change. Thank you.

Sharley

School has just started for me however, I feel that I have benefited alot from attending Utah Valley University. I have been able to attend classes that I are small and that give me the chance to speak up in class and contribute to classroom conversation. UVU offers great programs that help college students keep up in all their classes. They provide services such as the math lab and the writing lab, which you can go to on a regualar basis and get homework help for free. The professors are always ready to answer any questions that you have and offer assistance when they see it is needed. At UVU you are not just a number, because of the small class sizes you are recognized and appreciated. There is also many different work opporitunities on campus that can make you feel more involved in your school and get to know people that are also in your situation. I feel that UVU is a great school and that it has really helped me prepare for the future.

Joelle

I have made so many friends and I have learned so much. College can be expensive a lot of the time, but if you apply yourself, get good grades, and work really hard (and play hard) it'll be worth it in the end. I feel like I'm learning more than just academically. I feel like I'm also learning good life-lessons and skills like I'm gaining more responsibility, independence, and experience for the real world. I am enjoying my college experience very much and I'm excited for all it has in store for me.

Holly

I do like UVU because it is a great place for me to get my associates degree. I like that the classes aren't super hard, but they are still challenging. It is nice to take reasonable classes when you aren't really interested in that subject, but you can still get a good grade because the classes aren't that hard.

Amanda

Knowledge, in the one semester I have been here I have learned so much not only educational but things that will help me succeed in life. I am making the best I can with what I have and this really has been the best thing to do for myself.

Miranda

College has been valuable to me because it has taught me lessons that I wouldn't have learned any other way. College has taught me the value of hard work and that you can't get by without a desire to succeed. It's been hard and after just a semester I've learned that I have to work harder to get what I want out of school. It has taught me to have a better work ethic and to be dedicated to what I do. I've enjoyed my college experience and I would not trade it for anything else.

Elizabeth

Currently attending a college has placed me in a new environment that has brought my ways of thinking to a new level. Being challenged by my Professors and fellow students has opened my mind to the many diverse ideas and views of the world that always fill me with optimism for the future I’m going to achieve and drive me to try to make a difference. These new ideas in turn can help me thrive in the outside world and in the career I would like to pursue in more ways than one. I have bettered myself by opening up and embracing new knowledge that comes with attending college and that can only help better my future.

Emily

I've learned that I have to work hard to accomplish the goals I set for myself. I'm learned to expand myself and be more outgoing. I learned much about the field of my choice and I hope to use it to enrich the lives of others. My college experience has helped me be determined and dedicated.

Darcie

My college experience has taught me that the only things worth having in life require diligence, patience, and the ability to be completely steadfast in the face of adversity. I spent many years rebelling against going to college, and when I finally did at the age of 25 I knew I had made the right decision. I have gained a level of maturity in dedicating myself to my studies that I would be hard pressed to have the chance to experience in any other setting.

Lance

Going to college has really helped me grow in many aspects of life. It has taught me the fundamentals of life and how to be more self reliant. College life has also helped me realize that I can learn new things to better myself and also help in bettering the lives of other people.

Andrew

I have learned how to be a good student and how much work I have to do compared to high school.

Amelia

I have learned a lot about not only the different subjects that I have studied, but also about myself. I have learned that I enjoy discussing topics and questions that I have with my friends and family members so that I get more views and opinions, rather than just my own. I have also learned that the more I go to school, the more I want to become a teacher. I love to help people, especially children, and I have realized that the one thing that I enjoy the most is knowing that I have made a difference for good.

Brittany

A lot of people I have talked to say that they changed their major several times before finding the one that fit them. I started out as an ASL major and switched to a Psychology major. The teachers are well educated and I know I have found my fit after only changing once. Because the teachers have done such a great job at showing the fields of each major it was easy for me to decide which major to go into. I have learned so much attending Utah Valley University and I hope to be able to continue in my education.

Cami

My experience at college has opened my eyes to the blindness of our society towards many issues. I am less nieve and understand more about the social constructions of the USA. I have learned to never trust anything at face value. Question everything, because no one really has the answers for me. I have gained an indepedent opinion on many issues that I had previously been unaware about. There are so many opportunities out there in the world and college urges me to seek them out and conquor them. Knowlege is everlasting.