University of Arizona Top Questions

If i could go back, i would have told myself to pay more attention in class. As a high school senior i didnt care much about my grades. Now as a college freshman my GPA is very important to me and i strive to do the best I can in all of my classes.

Life is about to change, but no matter how difficult the obstacles are to overcome, and despite the challenging times when giving up seems like the only option, remember one thing-- your motto throughout life-- which will finally define itself through you: never give up, keep looking up. In college, everyone has their own unique experience; it's a time in your life to create yourself and grow in all ways. Take this opportunity to fall down only to stand up, to fall in love and have your heart broken, to fail one day and become successful the next. But while you are out there discovering just how strong and smart you are, don't forget to look back at your roots. When you leave, don't forget why you came. You're going to be in college, kiddo, and while it will be far from easy, it will be worth it. As you continue striving for the best, remember that though the tears may fall and the nights dark, you were born to smile and be the sunshine. Never ever give up, keep looking up, because you are on your way to be the best you you can be.

I would tell myself to develop good study habits before college begins. Studying an hour before an exam will no longer work in college; high school mainly tests for memorization of facts, whereas college demands mastery in the subject. While studying is an absolute must, I would tell myself to take a deep breath and not to fret, lest she miss out on all the fun that college has to offer! In high school, I had social anxiety. I would remind myself that peope are not the enemy; you are. Once you realize that people would rather befriend you than hate you, it makes befriending others much easier. College is all about balance; you need to study, but you also need to have fun, so you don't lose your sanity. Once you find this perfect balance of academic and personal success, you will be golden.

The advice I would give my self would be not to wait around to go to college for 4 years. Granted that the work experience was really usefull and taught me a lot of lessons that I needed to know, college would have been the best option to go. I would say that there are a lot of scholarships that are available that you can get and it will pay for all of the tuition and the expenses that come along with getting a degree. Going to the Art Institute of California is going to be the best option for the future and is going to be the best option for financial security. Going to college is going to be the best thing that will happen to you in your life.

Dear Kaitlyn, You are about to embark on an incredible journey, and I know you're getting tired of people telling you that but it's true. The next few months are going to seem so special to you, and they are extremely special, but don't think of them as a sad ending. They are only the first chapter of your life story. I know that you are so scared about leaving all that is known behind you, and jumping into this huge mysterious thing called your future, but if I can give you any advise about this difficult time you're going through it is this, don't live in the past. The friends and the memories you made in high school have been incredible and have made you a remarkable human being, but if you go into college and don't take advantage of every single oppotunity that arises because all you long for is to return to high school, you will regret it. This does not mean don't work hard, because that is extremely important, but there is no reason for you to not enjoy it too. This is the greatest time of your life!

I would say that it is important to take time to research your major before you decide to pursue it. I've seen too many people waste years and money pursuing a major, which they later realize they cannot enjoy. It is very important to love what you do. I personally spent 4 years taking many credits which did not really get me anywhere, because I had no clear picture of what I was doing. Only now, I am very certain what I want to do with my life. I wish I took more time to learn about myself and my career choices before jumping into a program. It is vital for a person to find what their calling is in life. Take personality profile surveys, talk to advisors, and ask for advice from your family and friends. Often, the people around you can see your gifts and abilities that you may not yet be aware of yourself. Once you have a definite understanding of who you are and what you love to do, you must resarch your career choices to see which ones match your interests and personality. Then, you can make an appropriate career choice with no regrets.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself about the college transition, the single most important piece of advice I could offer would be to never be afraid of solitude. While many people who move out of town for college view it as an adventure, I, like plenty of others, was at one point quite frightened. Leaving behind the comfort of our homes and the warmth of our families can be an incredibly hard concept to digest. The world is wide and unpredictable; there's no telling what awaits right around the corner, and facing it alone is nothing to be taken lightly. But the truth is that in college we are far from alone, for we are given the chance to discover new places and new people. From them and with them a whole new world of passions, opportunities, and experiences can be discovered. In the end it is that exposure that shapes us as persons, sometimes in ways we would have never imagined. Moreover, family will always be family, and home will always be home; they will always be there to welcome us back with arms wide open. There is nothing to fear.

First off, don't underestimate yourself and know that you are good enough. For the longest time I didn't think I was a "good enough" artist to make it anywhere. Even after I got accepted into the art college, which is very competitive, seeing my fellow classmates and their artistic ability made me second guess myself. My light bulb moment came when I met my favorite professor, who never doubted me. This professor saw talent in me and pushed me to my limits even if it meant making me frustrated with him pointing out the tiniest portions of my paintings that needed attention. In the end all that pickiness paid off and helped me create my best work. He constantly tells me that he only pushes me to my limit because he knows it’s in me. Due to this professor and his belief in me I was able to find that belief in myself. If I had given up I would never be to this point in my life or career. Dear my once doubtful self, I can guarantee that college will be tough, but it will be completely worth it. Most importantly do not give up, ever.

Looking back and talking to myself as a high school senior, first thing I would most definitely advise myself is to remain calm and stress-free: stressing over about numerous college apps, getting lost on the first day of school, declaring a major, etc. While choosing a major is important, its not the most important thing when you start freshman year. Anything can change over time, even your major, or knowing your way around school. The second advice I would give is to be a part of the 'college community' by meeting new friends, joining or participating in clubs and activities or services. Living the college life would be a lot easier if you had somewhere to start such as making friends. Remember start small, grow big. And lastly, make the transition from the high school atmosphere to the college atmosphere. In highschool where time just seemed endless and carefree, it is the exact opposite in college. Time is the difference between success and failure. Keeping a well balanced schedule can help you juggle through college life, family, and success.

I would tell myself that you should follow your instincts and never give up on your goals, no matter the cost. Overall I am very happy with the choices I have made in my life, so all there is to say are words of encouragement. You are on your way!