Pepperdine University Top Questions

My college experience thus far has not been measured in my grades, the number of best friends I have or how many parties attended. Instead, it has been based on the different academic areas I have found interest in, the number of 'different' people I have talked to, and the variability in how I have spent my weekends. It has certainly been fulfililng. While it pains me to admit that some of these experiences have come only because of the price I pay, or will eventually have to pay, I do not think this necessarily says anything about the 'value' of my education. I see my experiences thus far as developing me as the driven, relateable, compassionate, respectful,and and intelligent human that I aspire to be. As trivial as some college experiences may seem, It is hard for me to think of any that will not, in some way, positively influence the rest of my life. And I believe, this is true value.

Attending Pepperdine was one of the best decision I have ever made. I have never been more affected by anything in my entire life. Pepperdine is beautiful, prestigious, tight knit, warm, expensive, and strict and I love everything about it. Even the things I thought I would hate, and at times did, I have come to love. Pepperdine has opened my eyes to so many new things from religion to basic business qualities that I will cherish for years to come. Just in my first year of college, Pepperdine became my home and my peers became my family. I was more motivated than ever to participate in school activities and events and the pride I developed for Pepperdine is stronger than ever. I have never once regretted my decision to attend despite expense and will accept with open arms the consequences post-graduation simply because the experience was so beneficial to me. I can honestly say that Pepperdine will be in my heart forever no matter what.

I had to quickly learn how to balance school, social, and personal responsibilities. I learned how to manage a set budget over a long period of time. I had to prioritize the things that I had to and the things that I wanted to do. I learned how to take responsibility for myself, the people I surround myself with, and my actions. Without these experiences over such a short amount of time, I would not be where I am today. Every month that I spent out on my own forced me to grow into a more mature and productive adult. Every decision I make now during college will shape me into someone who can be responsible and productive in society. It has been so important for me to go off to college instead of taking the community college route. I have matured and grown so much more than I would have if I had stayed in my home town for the first two years of college and I truly believe that the adversity and challenges I will and have faced will pay off greatly in the long run.

I have gained so much from my college experience so far. First of all, I have been challenged academically in new ways. I had a pretty easy time of it in high school, but since coming to Pepperdine, I have had to learn study and research skills like never before. I have also made some really great friends, both on my campus and off. I have a great group of people that go to Pepperdine with me, and everyone here is so friendly and open. I have also gotten to meet people from the Malibu and Los Angeles community through service opportunities, which Pepperdine provides. I have also been challenged in my ideas and have learned more about the way other people view the world. I have grown up, moved out, and moved on from being the person I used to be. But I think all of these things are positive, and can't wait to learn more and grow more.

College has created an opportunity for me to establish independence from my parents and life from back home. As cliche as it may sound, college is a growing experience. I have been forced to handle my own predicaments- such as studying, grades, financial aid, and health problems. Although my parents live an hour away, I still am forced to be an adult and create my own schedule, make my own money, and receive the grade I deserve. I've valued the experience of college because I believe I am officially an adult. There are times where I do call my parents and ask for advice, but I ensure that I make the final decision for my future. College is a great opportunity for an individual to gain control of their future and to find and create their own identity to benefit themselves for the future.

I have had possibly the most amazing college experience at Pepperdine University this past year. Not only has Pepperdine helped me define success correctly, but has also helped place me on the correct path to gain it. It has indeed had a huge impact on my life thus far. I have grown both mentally and spiritually. I honestly do not believe I have ever felt more intellectual or closer to God. I have made lifelong friends and held countless memories. Waking up each morning to the breathtaking view of the beach, actually learning valuable information from professors that truly care and are willing to invite you to their homes, it truly is a blessing. I could not imagine going to any other school for my remaining college years. This school has helped me enhance both my intelligence and determination therefore in order to reach my goals and aspirations to become successful.

First of all, do not be afraid to try new things. Go for anything you want. You will not get everything you want, but trying is so much better than regretting you did not even try. Do not hold back! Roommate relationships are very important - cherish your roommate, she will be your support when family is far away. Get involved. Say hi to new people, take chances, push yourself. If you want to make an impact, go for it. Know it will be hard work though. Learn to listen to yourself. Mom and dad have great advice, but you know yourself better than they do. With that said, get involved! If time commitments scare you, relax; you will find time to be a part of the things you want to. That does not mean rush off and join every club that sounds interesting. Prioritize! The college transition is pretty easy with the right community and support from back home. Embrace this experience, there is nothing else like it. Take time to enjoy everyday, and even when classes are overwhelming, remember how lucky you are to be getting such a quality education. Always remember relationships are the most important, not school.

Jamie- Relax! I know how stressed you are right now. You're currently flying from your home in New Jersey, to universities all around the country, auditioning for school's acting departments. Have confidence in yourself. You're more talented than you know and you will realize that when your decision letters fly back in April. When they come back, have faith in your decision. Pepperdine is the right place for you and your Freshman year will transform you in ways you cannot yet imagine. You will learn the meaning of discipline. Long acting rehearsals and intense workshops will mold you into a more versatile performer and give you the tools you need to make it in the real world. Becoming a member of a sorority seems so outlandish for you right now, but trust me, Delta Gamma will play the biggest role in your maturation. You will meet women from all around the country who come together and bond for a greater cause, and not to stereotypically party and haze. You will be nominated as a 2nd semester Freshman for a Position in Delta Gamma which will teach you the importance of organization. Overall, Relax! You are happy now.

First of all I would tell myself to make sure I know what I want. I have already changed my major once and may be changing it again this semester. I would tell myself to do what makes me happy and not major in something that I think would be better overall to have in my life but does not make me happy. Secondly I would tell myself to pick a school that best suits and not a school that just has a nice location. I should really look into all the schools I could be interested and pick the one that best suits my needs. Third I would tell myself to make sure financially I will be able to afford the school after my four year period of attendance. The school I attend is very expensive but I attended it without a second thought. It would be better for me to work out and discover if it is the wisest decision to go to such a pricey school. Lastly I would tell myself, in all honesty, to fill out and apply for as many scholarships as I can to be able to help financially in my school situation.

After my first semester of all- nighters, homesickness and immense stress, there are a few things I wish I had known before I was launched from my high school comfort zone into new territory of college life. Going back in time, there is some advice I would give myself to avoid the horrors of college life. The first thing I would tell myself is to apply to schools that fit my personality and learning style. I know that I am a spiritual person who enjoys learning about religion and learns better in smaller class sizes. I would advise myself to apply to smaller, religiously affiliated schools. This is beneficial because it is extremely important that I am comfortable in the school I choose so that I can to have more success. I would also advise myself to practice good study habits and learn how to manage my time while I am still in high school. Having time to study, work and have fun is important. Managing time reduces stress and decreases the amount of all- nighters. My father always says that college is the best time of your life. My last piece of advice is: enjoy life in college.