University of Arizona Top Questions

My advice to myself would be to make the most of all the opportunities that are presented to you in college. Too often new college students pass up opportunities in favor of the easy road. At the time taking part in study abroad opportunities, extra-circular activities, advanced classes or other such opportunities can seem a daunting task to an overwhelmed student. At the time it seems like a much better option to do the minimum and take the classes that get you an "easy A." It's not until you are much older that you look back and realize what great chances and opportunities you had and turned down because it seemed like too much for too little. Going the extra mile makes for a better education, enriched life and priceless memories while constantly taking the easy road leaves you with a hollow education. My advice for college, and the rest of your life, is to make the most of every moment.

If I had the chance to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would have told myself to find more colleges that I could have been accepted to instead of procrastinating and waiting the last minute to decide which college I wanted to go to. Also I would have told myself to find and apply for scholarships because what I had experienced for my first year in college, my financial aid only covered most of my tution. I had to take out a loan to cover the rest and so that I could finish my first year. Once you get into college, you HAVE to study. But when you get into those college courses, it is no joke. I would also tell myself to make sure to go to all of your classes, and I mean all of them. Sometimes, missing one class can end up hurting you and your grade for that class. From what I have learned and experienced, STUDY, STUDY, STUDY is the number one key to helping you pass your classes and to get a good education.

Dear High School Jen, I want you to think long and hard about what you are about to do. Sure the University of Arizona wasn't your first choice but they have a great medical program and really is a top school in the nation. So you don't need to worry yourself over that choice. What I want you to really think about is this roommate issue. It may not seem like a big deal now at the time. In fact, if I remember correctly, you can't wait to move into the dorms with one of your friends. Really think about who you are choosing to live with. The two of you will be in a small confined space. You must know how to compromise. Is this the right person for you to be living with. Looking back I wish I really thought this decision through because now I feel like it may begin to have a negative effect on my school work and that is not okay. I wish I had realized that we were not compatable as roommates before it got worse. But no matter what you are strong and can do anything! Sincerely, College Jen

I think I would probably go to a junior college before attending a huge university. The school is very nice but it is very expensive and competative.

If I got the opportunity to go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would first of all congratualte myslef for living my senior year to the fullest while also getting good grades. I would tell myself not to be scared. That even though you're going to a new state and a new school where you know only one person, that things will work out. My high school senior self could not have imagined the amazing experiences and opportunies that I have had in the past year and I don't know how I would find the words to tell myself. I would tell myself to get Skype earlier because I didn't have it until I moves and now it makes me feel so much better every time I feel home sick. I would tell myself that it's ok to feel homesick. I think the main advice that I would give myself would be that it's ok to be afraid, as long as you just suck it up and take risks, go on adventures, meet new people, try new things, and always try your hardest.

First, I would tell myself to invest in dry shampoo and a coffee maker. Second, I would say that college truly is the place where people find themselves. Not only do you pick out a career that will follow you for the rest of your life but you will also discover many of your likes and dislikes. You learn that there are certain sacrifices that need to made in order to get to where you need to be but you also create friendships and relationships that will be a part of you forever. You will make plenty of mistakes along the way but you are finally at that age where you are mature enough not to make the same mistake twice. I would say, don't ever give up on something you are passionate about. If you want to get a 4.0 GPA then you better learn strong time management skills and learn to love caffine. The most important advise I could give my past self is to not be in a hurry to grow up. College is going to get you were you need to be, but sometimes you need to stop and enjoy the journey.

The ability to finish tasks in advance, listen to those more experienced than myself, and practice financial maturity are qualities I would have done well to learn in high school. Foregoing some of these practices created challenges in adjusting to college life. Though I understand these characteristics are critical to any trade and in any life stage, they get harder to learn as one gets older. As a high school music student, I know I could have gone further if I made more adjustments to my technique and practice schedule by following the guidance of instructors and peers. Music is a test of aptitude and requires self-discipline, an essential quality at this age. Fiscal planning and the proper completion of assignments also require self-discipline. Assignments themselves need to be finished far in advance, proofread and revisited to ensure credibility and personal understanding. Such is the desired return on a significant financial investment, which is why smart spending is so important. I would want to tell myself that it is not what I spend, but how I spend it that defines the quality of the investments - starting with college – that I am so fortunate to be able to make.

If I could go back and give myself advice about college it would be to not take college so easily. College is hard work and it takes a lot of effort, just as every one always told me. I would also tell myself to not take other peoples words, who have been though college, for granted. Studying is a must in college if you want to pass classes and get good grades. Do not take college lightly because it is serious business and there is no messing around. You pay for your classes and if you fail them, you have to retake them and pay for them again. So, study hard and never give up. You can do anything you set your mind to.

To my high school version, Did you start applyng for colleges during September? If not, then start early! Many universities have a deadline in November and you want to start yours with as much time to work on it as you can. Make sure to get more than two teachers or counselors to proofread your personal statement and don't procrastinate on filling out your FAFSA. Apply to as many universities that you can think of because you want to largest pool of choices. Consider living independently or in a dorm during college if you are planning on attending a university close to home. Keep maintaining your rigorous work habitsince it'll come in really handy when you have to studyfor tests and do community work in college. While we're on the subject of classes, make sure to take a reasonable amount of classes during your first semester While you are in high school, find yourself a good, knowledgable mentor. That mentor will be the key to making connections, because in college nothing is more vital than to have connections to people who are willing to help you! Work hard until you graduate, don't procrastinate! -Your future self.

Dear 18-year-old Paola, Do not panic. That is probably the most important advice I have for you. I know you are worried about what college has in store for you, but trust me, you will do great. Never doubt yourself. You have to realize that there will be people surrounding you, talking about their perfect scores and perfect GPA’s. I know this will make you doubt yourself, but I beg you, never doubt your academic abilities. You have to study and read the assigned readings your professors give you. Do not be lazy. Find time to balance your studies. I will warn you that you will have a difficult time adjusting to Biology. This will be one of your most difficult courses, but you will be able to earn a good grade. Paola, you are strong. A family member will face health hardships, but as a unit, you will be able pass through this and everyone will be fine. Once you adjust to your studies you will be able to make good friends. Remember to keep family close, that is important. You will be capable of doing great things, you will be surprised. Have fun, Paola.