California State University-Fullerton Top Questions

If I could go back in time, I would warn my high school senior self of all the obstacles she must overcome in order to have a smooth transition into college. First, I'd say that the key to overcoming all of these obstacles is learning how to grow up, and to grow up quickly, whether that reality is welcomed or feared. Growing up involves moving out of the place you call home, and discovering that you are your own "mother" now. In the past I had never had a problem making friends, but college is a whole different experience. I would let my past self know how much confidence it takes to speak up and start that first conversation. I will tell her not to settle for seeing a movie alone, or making dinners for one every evening. Lastly, I will tell her not to forget who she is, but also not to dwell in the past. She will have certain people trying to hold her back, but she needs to know that it will only bring her pain. Change is scary, but sometimes we all need to be scared to really know what is right.

As a college senior who has struggled with the burden of working 2 jobs and going to school my suggestions to my former self would be simple. I would tell myself the value of the education I am recieving at the High School level. I would encourage my former self to focus more on school and to seek additional help when I was struggling. As a high school senior I struggled with school, belonging, family issues, and social issues in addition to never feeling smart enough. These are similar issues that students in high school face everyday. I would encourage myself to commit myself to the task and give it my all. Additionally I would remind myself that I smart and can accomplish anything I put my mind to. As an adult I realize the value of education and I would attempt to light the fire of passion that I currently feel for education. I believe that having a free education was something that as a high school senior I took for granted and I would encourage myself to take full advantage of all the opportunities that I can. I would take honors classes, college classes, AP classes and exams.

Oh my goodness I wish I could go back and tell myself so many things. I was so nervous and ignorant about the whole process. My parents did not inform me about how college worked- they just made it more than apparent that it was my responsibilty to get into a good college and make them proud. I wish I could have told myself back then to find other paths to knowledge about the processes involved in being a college student earlier rather than later when I wasn't able to get the information I needed from my parents, friends, and school counselors. I would have highly recommended to myself to get more involved on campus sooner rather than later as well because once I started to get involved I found a whole new world of opportunities out there. Lastly, I would have told myself to stop thinking so much about how I can't afford college, and start thinking about how I am a good student, an asset for any school that would be so lucky to have me as a student, and that if I work hard enough I will be able to make it financially.

If I could go back in time, I would warn my 18 year old self that a rollercoaster ride was in store for the next few years. When I was in high school I was so worried about the workload overwhelming me and not being able to keep up. Little did I know that school would be the least of my problems while attending college. So if i met the high school version of me, I would give her this nice little list 1. Dont miss class, it'll cost you a letter grade 2. Wait till Thursday to party! 3. Dont be so nervous about living alone, it'll be awesome 4. Dont pick classes before 10, you wont go 5. Talk to people in EVERY class, you'll need them at some point 6. Frat parties should NOT be a weekly thing and above all I would be SURE to say 7. College life is what you make it, so take chances, make new friends, and dont be afraid of what people think, theyre not watching you anyway. Try everything you've ever wanted to try cuz you only get one shot here!

Proverbs 4.

Knowing what I know now, I would have gotten information about the many clubs and organizations that my school offers and joined. I would have done this to bring a challenge to myself because I am not too social. I would have told myself to build a relationship with my professors, get to know them. In other words, tie myself closer to my school and look to it more as a community rather than just a school. I would advise myself to join the freshmen programs that the school holds to transition into college a little bit more aware and prepared, rather than just feeling my way through as I had done. I would encourage myself in pushing for greater academic excellance to bring glory to God.

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First piece of advice: don't put too much pressure on yourself when choosing a career. In your first 2 years of college experiment with your classes and your extra-curricular activities because you?ll be more satisfied and more driven in life when you discover what your passion is. Second, prioritize! Believe me, having your life in balance and staying organized will not create as much of a headache for you as scrambling to get your homework in on time because you were out with your friends all night. Set some serious goals and make sure you?re taking the steps to reach them. Plan ahead and manage your time wisely. If there?s one thing that slips away most in college, time would be it. Thirdly, make an effort to get to know your professors. They are there to help you succeed and provide great references for jobs and graduate programs. Lastly, the most important thing: be present. Relish every moment in college, get involved, build positive, lasting relationships and give of yourself. Be confident, be ambitious and don't be intimidated when opportunity comes your way no matter how big. You?re capable of great things!

I would tell myself to just have fun and not stress out. During high school I was so concern with figuring out what college I should go to and what field I should major in that I missed out on a lot of the high school experience, but now looking back, I think I always knew everything would work itself out and be fine. I am extremely happy with my choice in colleges and I look foward to graduating from Cal State Fullerton.

I would tell myself that I could have a balanced academic life. A college is for not only career development but also a place to practice leadership skills, build social network, and enjoy fun activities. Knowing what I want to do for my career early would help me choose targeted courses, so I can save time and money. I wish that I could join student clubs/associations early, gaining valuable academic advice, and learning how to effectively accomplish a team's goal. Eventually, I could enjoy mentoring others and be a postive person to any changes in my life. Making friends in these clubs, I could find energy to face challenges as we act towards similar interests and purposes. Joining these clubs, I would be more competitive than others to obtain my desired job because I explore career opportunities, acquaint with hiring companies, and being active in the clubs. Furthermore, my college has an advanced recreation center that offers interesting classes, like Rock Wall Climbing, and free billiards/bowling. Enjoying these activities would relax myself from intense studies and leave me a beautiful memory for a college life. I hope that my suggestions would encourage and help others for success.