The University of Texas at Austin Top Questions

Sure, you think you have great study habits, but the truth is, you don't. Learn them now and learn what works for you becuase if you don't, college will not be as fun and exciting as it should be. You are now living on campus, the place you go to school and it is hard to define when you should be studying and when you can make yourself feel "at home." I sueggest you follow through with all the to-do list you make now instead of storing them away. Study all the hard material first, then the easy. Start stuyding in groups instead of by yourself. College will be much easier and enjoyable if you work with others and hear how your classmates explain the material. High school classes are not preparing you for college courses, so I suggest to get in the habit of study skills, so you can dominate all your classes and come out with a 4.0.

There are a few things that I would tell my self. But, probably the most inportant advice I would give myself is to choose a college because you want to go there. Not because all of your friends are going there. Going to a college just because your friends are going there does not make the school a good choice for you. Plus, you probably will my not have much time to spend with them because most likely you all be taking up different majors, so you won't be able to see them and ways. So choice the school that fits you best and go there, not the place that fits your friends.

Liz, Here's what you need to know Just because it's a big fancy big ten universtiy doesn't mean you're not good enough. Go out for the longhorn scholars. They totally want you. And when your community politics proffessor tells you to go to the Campus Crazy center, you should do it. If you don't, you're going to spend the rest of the year skipping class and drinking. Speaking of, learn to like liquor because beer will MAKE YOU FAT! You hate psychology? Guess what: you can switch majors! Amazing, right? History is fun, but I'd prefer you do communication or business, or hell even pre-med. That chemistry class isn't as hard as you think it is. Neither is spanish. Also, ask grandma to help you with that. It's not that hard but it'll still drop your gpa. As a matter of fact, its the one thing that got you booted. Make some friends who arent the "party girls" and save your money! Remember, your a small town girl whos dreaming too loud. Love, Liz

I would look into the university's student organizations and/or faculty-student groups to familarize myself with university life in order to learn how to better navigate through the system. College years, especially at a great place like UT Austin, should be more than just book learning. Establishing a network of experienced people would definitely enhance the education experience (something that isn't necessarily covered on a course syllabus).

Take it slow, don't be in any rush to do things you don't know how to do. Have confidence in yourself and don't be afraid to fail, it's only natural and you'll learn a great deal from it because it makes you stronger, trust me on this one. Study hard and make friends with your classmates, exchanging knowledge is probably going to be one of your most valuable assets. If you have the means, don't go looking for a job if you don't need onee, it gives you more time to polish and focus on your grades as you should be doing in the first place. Money's important, but not as important as getting a good educaton. Getting into a relationship will happen with time, so don't sweat it. Get to know your teachers because they'll push you to learn more than what you do inside the classroom. And above all else, take care of yourself physically and mentally. If you make mistakes, don't beat yourself up over it, you're only human. If you follow these instructions and don't give up, you'll be just fine.

It's not a bad idea to ask for help, and a second opinion.

I look back at the time that I was a Highschool senior and I remember three key things that I would tell myself. I would make sure that I owned a new car with a lease package in order to get a new one every year. I would also buy a house in the campus town that I chose, and sublet to cover my expenses. Finally, I would make sure that I was not going to far away from my family because they are the people that really matter most. Thank You. Collin Fischer

I have gained a sense of responsibility since beginning college. College has opened my eyes to many things. I have become a stronger person while having to juggle school activities, studying, working, and making time for family and friends. I have learned strong communication skills by conversing with instructors and fellow class mates. I have developed a sense of independence and will continue this process with the transition to a University away from home.

I am only a freshman in college, but the first semester alone has taught me so much. Putting aside the knowledge I obviously gain from class, I also learned how to better relate to others that are entirely different than myself. Coming from a small east Texas town I grew up as one of the few biracial people there. Hardly ever did I encounter people peculiar to the average upper-middle class white people all around town. Now I have many friends of many ethnicities, religions, and interests that are more diverse than I ever thought possible. Another valuable lesson I have learned is that I am actually growing into adulthood. This may sound silly but it really hit me the first week when I had to do laundry and make sure I ate meals all by myself. I truly believe that school is not for everyone, but that people who have the desire to attend college definitely should! Not only that, but move out of the house and be entirely independent for a change. It is an electrifying life change that I will never regret.

I am only in my first year at UT-Austin, but I can already see how much of a difference it has made in my life. My confidence level has always been something that I struggle with. I am shy in public and easily intimidated by those around me that I feel are more intellectual than I am. The professors, advisors, leaders, and even fellow students at this university have given me courage and motiviation to lessen that fear. I walk around campus with thousands of people that are competing for scholarships and awards, but we are all still here for the same reason: to learn. My professors make it a goal to teach more than what is merely on the syllabus. They go above and beyond to help me understand the concepts and to discuss my future's plans with me. Never have I been in a place where so many professionals are concerned with my life as opposed to only their work. The experiences I have and the concepts I am learning prove to me that college, no matter the expense, is the right decision for me and that I can be successful in my future.