University of California-Los Angeles Top Questions

People are too busy worrying about themselves to worry about you. It may seem like what you wear, say, and do is being intensely judged by everyone around you, but that's simply not the case. Everyone is trying their best to define themselves in a new environment and in a new world. Factoring in the opinions you assume the people around you have is not only inaccurate but it is an incredible waste of time. Use your power of will and thought to decide that you are good enough simply because you exist. Base your idea of who you are not on the ideas or thoughts of others, but on the ideas and thoughts of you. Life is too short to wrap yourself in a blanket of worry that does no good for anyone, and in all honesty doesn't have to exist. College is a time where you can define yourself based upon what you want, what you desire, and what you feel you should contribute to the world. Don't miss out on the beauty of yourself because you're worried about what other people think. You are special. You are worthy. You are you.

I have two pieces of advice to make the best out of college: try new things and budget your time wisely. Check out clubs or groups on campus, either centered on things you know you like to meet new people with the same interest, or on things that you have vaguely heard of to learn more about them. Rush a sorority or a fraternity to see what it's like. Take classes in subjects you may have never known you loved or known you were good at. Be social and reach out to other students in your classes or in your dorm. Do all of this to make sure you haven't pidgeon-holed yourself into whatever college experience you think you're supposed to have. But, just as importantly, make sure that you are still alotting the appropriate amount of time for your studies. The focus of your studies may change a few times throughout your college career, but there should still be goals in mind at the end. Whether it's learning more about or mastering a certain field, or building a foundation for post-college life; actively work toward that goal. Balance is the key.

Follow your passion and absolutely, irrevocably do not let anyone or anything stand in your way. This is your life, your major, and your career choices. Don’t be afraid to fight for what you value and know is right. If you feel you don’t fit in, start your own movement. Hold your head up no matter what, but also don’t be afraid to seek help, advice, or just someone to lean on. Never be apologetic about what you staunchly believe in. It is 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} okay to not have a life plan set out, but take advantage of your time in college to try new hobbies, discover interests, and explore your own individuality. Time will fly before you know it so do not let opportunities run away, but at the same time, realize that not every opportunity may be right for you. Be sure to carve time for volunteering, exercising, and meditating. Mental health, including reflection and sleep, is essential to growth and success. Amidst working hard academically, never forget personal time is crucial to happiness and what more to define success than the state of happiness?

Although the transition between high school and college seems scary, you are on the right track at making the transition smoother. Doing the summer program will help you prepare for fall quarter and adjust to your new home. Do not worry about not fitting in or meeting someone else that is a mother. You will meet a couple of moms and find the support that you need from the school and your new community. Academically you will excel, but emotionally it will be challenging and yes you will cry at times. However, you will have child care, an apartment, school supplies, and food. Like always you found a way to make it happen not only for yourself, but for your children as well. The last thing I will advise you is to continue to push forward, no matter how tough it gets, and it feels impossible. Remember that you can and will accomplish your goals.

“Hibernate throughout the insanely long summer vacation. You have to listen to me. You are going to need all of that sleep for your first year alone. Who cares about hanging out with your friends and doing things you have not been able to do, you need your sleep. Yeah, I know you will most likely not see your friends throughout the year and you will have to wait until the next summer to see them, but you need your sleep. Sleep is sleep. In fact, tell them too to hibernate. They are going to need their sleep as well. They will thank you a million times after their first year ends. I can assure you that.” That is the advice I would give myself. It honestly would have been the greatest advice I have ever received if someone would have advised me that as I was awaiting to commence my first year at a university. So many nights spent up late at night studying, finishing up that six-page essay, or even just talking to my floor mates. “Oh, yeah, I forgot to mention. Sometimes just say no... Do not question it. You will find out later. Good luck.”

Expect the worst, then anything that comes in your experience will not be as much of a negative experience. Don't be a pessimist, but be aware that you will struggle more than others because of your background.

Recently, I was reminiscing about my high school experience a bit of euphoria and comical sentiments aroused in my soul and psyche. I thought I knew who I was. I thought what I was taught was true at face value. I now know that’s a fallacy at all levels. Not to cast any culpability on teachers, but to earnestly question the K-12 education system. I would have told the younger me of approximately one hundred fifty days ago to find out who I am. The more one knows, the more one tries and advances. I am Moorish the decedents of Moorish people who were notable in science. I believe if I knew the entirety of my ancestry I would be more motivated. Subsequently, I would have done more research on scholarship and sponsorship options, because I would have understood the key to education. The power that is generated is incomparably; not only to aspire to be an employee one day but to be an employer and an entrepreneur. Once you know your history, you will not act wayward in college like most students because you know who you are. You're not lost anymore, you’re found.

I would tell myself to give everybody a chance – including myself. Everybody deserves to be listened to, because it is impossible to understand anybody fully, and all too often we rob those around us of the chance to be heard. Obviously, some (including my high school self) would ask the skeptical question: "if it is impossible to understand others, why try?" I believe that without knowing others we cannot know ourselves. The man who lives in a red house never truly knows his house is red until he meets the man from the blue house. Imagine how much his worldview might change, and that's just based on learning of the outsider's house color, let alone his life story. We have so much to learn from others, so listen up. Knowing my high school self though, I would be sure to tell him not to get absorbed in the lives of others. As a third-culture kid I would frequently assume the personas of my friends. In reality, I always knew that I could truly be me, but never quite gave myself the chance. Listen to others, and listen to your real self, kid.

Do not worry about transitioning into collage. It does not matter what expectations you believe are put on you, both socially and academiclly. You do not need to fit in right away. The social aspects of univerity life will begin to work out the moment you stop trying to force them. There are so many people and clubs, that even though some groups may not seem to fit with who you see yourself as, that is ok. Keep an open mind, however if you find yourself unhappy in a situation move away from it and find something that makes you feel comfortable. As far as grades are concerned, you know you are one of the worst test takers in existance. Although it is critical that you study as hard as you always have, you should immidiatly stop focusing on test scores and gpa and shift your attention to learning and enjoying the material. The less stressed you are and the less anxiety you have over the upcomming test, the better you will do.

It isn't going to be easy, but you will get through it. Work hard and you will develop the best study habits you have ever had. Don't worry so much about your friends from home, the ones that matter much will always be there for you. Don't worry so much about making others proud, do what is best for you. Stand up for yourself, don't let your roommates walk all over you or they will steal $300 worth of your belongings. Gain some confidence, it will help you in a lot more aspects than you think. Get involved, it's the only way to meet people in this big of a school. Sit in the front row, professors wil notice you and it will improve your grades. Go to Office for Students With Disabilities, you don't know it yet, but you have ADHD. Getting this hep and receiving the accomodations will raise your grades by 20{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c}. You aren't stupid, you just needed a little extra help. Get involved in research early, by your junior year it is too late. They want people who can dedicate 2 years. Good luck, you will do it kid.