California State University-Fullerton Top Questions

More than anything, my college experience has developed my ability to critically think and analyize the world around me and the information in it. Ranging from political positions to teaching in the workplace, this view has become an intrinsic aspect of how I think and make decisions and in turn help others to do the same. Additionally, my exposure to subjects and research in areas beyond my own degree program has allowed me to make interdisciplinary connections and establish a big-picture concept, applying these methods and views wherever I can. These same various exposures have also provided appreciation for beauty and knowledge I would have otherwise not known, most notably in photography. A fourth, and grudging, essential lesson I have learned is jumping through hoops. Not everything is based off of what you know and produce: to a degree there are always politics to navigate and seemingly pointless processes that must be completed to truly succeed. The end result is not only a richer and fuller life, but a more intellectually rewarding and productive one.

What I got out of my college experience so far is that I learned how to be independent. I try not to depend on my parents when it comes to college. I am responsible for my own actions, and no one is to blame for my decision but me. It is valuable to attend because it helps me prepare for my future. I make my own decisions even if it cause me to make mistakes. I'm not perfect, and everyone makes mistakes. The mistakes help me become a better person and will let me understand the real world. Without experience, I will be confused when I enter the real world. I am glad that I am able to see the world by going to school and going out.

My college experience taught me about the "real world" because, as students, we attend this college to start our future. As a business student in a known business college, I would say that my field is completely competitive. I learned that I have to compete with these other students in order to succeed. My time has been valuable in this college because every second used helps me gain more knowledge and insight about the work field. As I sit in class, it is important that distractions are blocked out and focus has to be in attendance. I would say that being in college has made me more responsible with my school work and taught me that hardwork really does pay off. I am happy attending this college and because of the heavy work load and competition to stand out, I will succeed as a business student in the future.

I have had the great honor of getting married at a young age. In order to make a difference in my marriage and in my surroundings, I am obligated to better myself with education to do so. I have learned hard work, how to manage time and money, and realizing just how important an education is.

I took advantage of all opportunities at school. I didn’t participate in a lot of extra-curricular activities because I wanted to get work experience/ internships. I think I achieved what I wanted: graduated with B.A.s, in International Business and Economics, a minor in International Politics; 3 paid internships; I went to study abroad to France for a year. I learned the most about myself and life when I was away from home for a year. I live and studied in Paris, France and it was the most incredible experience in my life and I feel that I have to thank California State University, Fullerton for that. They provided academic and financial support, and also challenged students to push their limits in their host country. My education has been the most important aspect in my life. I am the first in my family to graduate from college and I have three other siblings that are following in my footsteps. I am their mentor and a mentor to other minority students. High school drop-out rates are still, unfortunately, a prevalent reality among Hispanic students and one of my goals in life is to change that statistic.

Although there are many students who are lazy and complete their work at the last minute, the other students who are actually self-motivated and strive to do their best make it worthwhile because the professors see that it is worthwhile to teach these students as long as there are some who have a thirst for knowledge. I can honestly say that I have learned something new from every one of my classes, and I can see that each of my professors is willing to help each student to the best of his or her abilities as long as the student seeks help. If it were not for such great professors, I would find it hard to enjoy my college experience. Of course, there are also some great students I have met through the Honors Program who make my classes enjoyable too because they provide insightful discussions that would never have been sparked unless one of them spoke up when they had something to say. I can honestly say that I have learned more from my fellow colleagues and professors in one year at CSUF than from all of my teachers during my four years at my high school.

I have learned many valuable lessons from my college experience. Since enrolling in college, I have learned how valuable education is in my life goals. Through education i have gained a better understanding of the world around me. Not only have I become a better, more advised citizen, but I have grown closer to my family and those friends who really care about me and my shotr and long term goals. College is extremely valuable because it is a rite of passage. Every student exiting the secondary educational system should have the opportunity to experience the pleasures of college. College allows an 18 year old to experience the true freedom of the professional class. This was most important to me due to the fact that I come from a socioeconomic background which lakced many monetary resources. Being able to create your own schedule and learn about things that the individual finds intriguing, by professors who are entralled in the subject matter can be overtly stimulating to the mind. I believe it is this freedom that keeps me coming back semester after semester. I share my story with others in the hope that it will draw more in.

My college experience has helped me grow a lot. It has also provided me with the knowledge and tools to succeed in my endeavors. I have had the opportunity to do presentations at conferences and to get practical work experiences. Not only have I had these opportunities but I have enjoyed the experience. I easily got a job upon graduation even though there were several other applicants for the position. Cal State Fullerton also provided me with all of the educational tools and preparation needed to get into Pharmacy School. I have also developed several valuable friendships with my peers as well as the opportunity to experience positive volunteer opportunities. Overall, it has made me a more mature, ambitious and responsible adult.

The economic roller-coaster these past three years has taught me how to be economically realistic. Through out high school, I had the world put at the palm of my hand. Now it is a everyday struggle just to even touch the sense of financial security. I learned more about finances than my own major of Chinese. The first lesson I learned in college is that "I am on my own". My family can not financially save me anymore. With each passing year, the debt got higher and my parents help became rarer. It was not out of greed that they choose not to help me, but out of love. They wanted me to learn how to take care of myself in a time of crisis. This is the greatest gift any college student can get from their parents. This may seem like a harsh lesson ,but it is one of the greatest lessons I have yet to finish. I am learning through college how to be independent financially, understand my abilities, and most importantly, cold hard reality. This is the most valuble reason for any student to attend college and become a real adult.

I received my BS in Sociology and my teaching credential. It has allowed me to have many job opportunities and do what I enjoy the most which is teach. I would like to continue my education by obtaining a master degree. Getting my BS and teaching credential was the most valuable decision I ever made.