University of California-Irvine Top Questions

Ask students who go there.

In order to select a college that will best serve your interests, you need to first identify your overall academic and career goal for yourself. Spend time reflecting what subject most interests you, and realistically what you feel you can handle in order to be successful. Once you have identified an area of interest, find a school that will offer you the very best program and opportunity to grow in your affinity for that subject matter. Be sure to consider all aspects of the campus, the finances, the location, the demographics, etc. It is extremely helpful to meet with counselors at the school you are interested in, and perhaps seek out an older student and get a personal account of the school. Don't waste time applying to big named schools that do not offer you what you what you need to be successful. Take into consideration the size of the school, depending on your personal preference. Once you arrive to college, set aside ample time to study but be sure to get involved with groups and clubs that are applicable to your academic goal. Networking is an essential component of your success in life. Best of luck!

Picking the right college was one of the most difficult things I have had to do. I would advice prospective students and parents to choose colleges based on location and quality. I have enjoyed staying somewhat close to home. My family?s frequent visits are very important to me. Extra curricular activities and majors should be considered as well. Some colleges offer more classes on specific subjects and I have been blessed to be able to attend a college that is able to satisfy every requirement of my major from basic classes to internships and future careers. The school?s environment is very important. The beautiful peaceful scenery makes the walk to class enjoyable and somewhat relaxing. The aura every college gives off varies for different people. Depending on what the perspective student enjoys the most, some colleges may seem more suitable than others. No matter which college they end up in, as long as they keep an open mind and a focused mind set, they will be able to find the joys of college and succeed in what ever they wish to pursue.

Research, research, research is key! Try looking for a school that has the program you want to major in. If your major is not found at the top prestige school that everyone is talking about then you might want to look at other schools. Check out the program! Some schools are known for their outstanding programs. Once you know where you want to go, check out the college. Ask for a college tour. This can alleviate parents' worries of the campus being unsafe as well as its surroundings. Saving money is also key. If you can take general education classes at a community college that transfers over to a State or University college, take the class. It will be cheaper and will save you money and time. Sign up for scholarships and financial aid to alleviate the cost of fees that you will have to pay. Look for on-campus work study, but don't overload yourself with studying, working, and classes. One last thing...mistakes will happen, so learn from them.

That listening to others is the best way to find out who and what you are, and what you want to do with your life. By listening to others talk about their goals, their dreams, and their academic desires, one finds out more about the possibilities of the world than through any other way. Listen to financial aid advisors. Listen to graduates and to current students. Listen to activists and people from marginalized communities. Listen to the power brokers inside and outside the university. Then ask questions. Ask the logistical questions, yes; but also ask about the cultural, political, philosophical, and scientific spirit of the campus: Do the students engage in activism for a better world, or at least a better community? Does the university function as a public servant or a private enterprise? Are the rights of the LGBTQ community respected? Do Native Americans have equal access here? Ask about loans and debt and dorms, but also ask--question--about the university's knowledge production: Is this a place where I, as an entereing sudent, can absord, produce, and disseminate new knowledge? Or I am, the student, simply an automaton? Listen. Then ask your questions.

I would advise students to cut down their work load, take longer to graduate, and get involved in extracurricular activities and volunteering. It is extremely important, especially when applying for graduate studies, to have atleast a couple of experiences on your resume to make you stand out. Also, use the career services, attend workshops and utilize the carreer counselors. As far as finding the right college, do research. Go to the campuses and talk to students. Ask questions.

Let the person attending college choose the college, allow them to make mistakes, learn, have fun.

i'm a senior in high school, go to college campuses

Don't be afraid to go far from home but don't be afraid to stay close by either. Go with what feels right. And try to make the best of your time in college. It's ok to miss home, but it's ok to go out and meet new people too!

Make sure you get off to a great start with good study habits! Use all of the tutoring resources available from the very start, instead of when they become a necessity.