California State University-Fresno Top Questions

What should every freshman at California State University-Fresno know before they start?

Karla

I think that if I was to go back in time and give myself advice about college I think that the advice that I would give myself would be to always make time for everything. One of the things which I had to learn to do now because when I just came I was having struggles with managing my time to do my homework for all my classes and because of that I end up failing one class. Another advice would be to always do my homework before is do because procastination makes everything harder that it is, since when you leave things to do at the last moment you always end up doing most of the things the wrong way and also you end up doing it very late meaning that your work lack of either information or effort. Teacher in college always want you to do good but if they see that you do not put the effort for success they will noy be there to help like high school teachers do.

Miracle

I would let myself know that it is extremely important to save your money! I know shopping may be an addiction, but tuition, books, and rent is no joke, so it is best to start early to avoid extra pimples due to stress. I would also encourage myself to not be afraid of taking chances and getting out of my comfort zone. Nothing is worse than leaving your hometown and being all alone in a city you are not familiar with. Make friends, have fun! You only have one chance to experience this transition so don't be afraid to be afraid. You are not alone. Do not try and visit your family every weekend! Get comfortable with getting comfortable, I know it may take time, but it will all be worth it. Do not be afraid to email your professors. Although they may seem intimidating, they really are there to help you succeed. Oh yes! Be extremely careful when walking down the bleacher stairs at football games, falling is no fun, and scraped knees are not attractive. However, do not be surprised when you recieve a bunch of followers on instagram, they all love your clumsiness!

Julie

Take Colonel Vandiver’s offer on the Air Force Academy. He is one of the best people you have met and he will help guide you through the whole process. It may seem scary or far-fetched right now but trust me, you will not regret at least making the Air Force Academy one of your options. Also, apply for any UC colleges. ANY! Going away for college will be good for you! I know that you do not want to take out any loans or feel like you are abandoning your family which needs you at the moment, but it will be good for your soul. The independence and distance will be rejuvenating. The very least you can do is apply for those colleges outside of Fresno so you have options, instead of just going to Fresno State. Lastly, get out of your comfort zone. I know you are an introvert, but make new friends! It will make college a whole lot more fun than it is now.

Willie

If I could speak to my adolescent self, I would give myself information on how life could be different with knowledge. Staying in school is important and the fast money that you see only last a short while. In contrast, I know pursuing an education seems slow to you now but the outcome will remain with you for a lifetime. I know times have been tough for you, loosing a brother would damage anyone but trust me in time the hurt will ease up. In a short while you will be 18 years old and the most important thing you could do in life is stay in school; college life is easy the most imortant factor is appearing and staying in contact with your instructors. Believe me their there to help you I know that majority of people believe that help is not available. But this is not the case in college; and do not believe the lies about not being able to afford tuition. There is money for you and if you really work at it there is scholarships and grants available to help. Believe me college life is for you.

taylor

yes

Hannah

As a high school senior I was involved in a diverse range of activities. I was constantly busy and loved every minute. I took AP classes, competed in three sports, played in band, took piano lessons, was an active member of my church youth group, and engaged in many hours of community service. My first year of college I decided I should "focus on my studies." If I could go back, I would shake myself and try to express how incredibly stupid that idea is. Staying involved in at least some of these interests wouldn't have distracted or taken away from my studies, they are what made me a happy, well-rounded person. I know it is a common occurence to be told to "get involved" in college, but I don't think anyone realizes how much it really does matter until you aren't involved in anything but school. I spent the first year of college life completely lonely and miserable because I was missing all of the other things that could have enriched my college experience as well as the learning I was tring to focus on. Don't completely overwhelm your schedule, but do something. Anything!

Jamie

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to start looking for a job and play softball to the fullest because it would be my last time playing a competitive sport.

Jennifer

Regarding applying, I would have told myself to immerse myself in more activities and clubs. I would have also told myself to remember how to actually study and write papers, because it is difficult. The most important part would be time management, because it is difficult in college to manage your time.

Ruby

My whole life, I have been a hard-worker in school. One thing I have always struggled with, however, was being too hard on myself if I was to recieve a sub-par grade on a test or if I was not living up to my own expectations or goals. I had intense worries about my future- I was plauged with anxiety about not getting into the school I wanted, or getting into the school or not being able to handle the financial aspect of attending my university of choice. If I could talk to my 17-year-old self, I would tell myself not to worry so much and to focus all of that energy on my studies and enjoying my senior year. I recieved many acedemic recognitions my senior year and was accepted to all of the acedemic instutitions that I applied to, so I would explain to myself that there was nothing to worry about and that I should go out for ice-cream with my friends and enjoy myself rather than worrying so much so that I can go on to university with an open, fresh outlook.

Amir

I would have immediately smacked some sense into myself- you need to find what you want to do. Geomatic Engineering is a very interesting field and my past self would definitely be interested in the ability to travel, not to mention the chance to get the best education possible on the subject! Also, work hard and save your money, you need it for the coming debts. Haha.