University of California-San Diego Top Questions

All incoming college freshman and parents must keep in mind that anyone can succeed and enjoy their times at any university to any extent. Parents must emphasize priorities before any student is sent off to college or universities initiating the fact that not everyone succeeds, but every single student is capable in reaching their dreams. Students must overcome their fears and be prepared to enjoy and experience the term "reality". I believe college is essential in ways that it opens up all student's eyes to the adverse and thrilling realities of life; such as financial issues, social encounters, huge loads of pressure due to real world responsiblities and their career path. Students most also acknowledge the different experiences and programs that each university offers to their students. For examples, students may want to experience more abstract studies or may want to be involved in a deeper sense where hands on experience is more common. Whatever the preference, all students and parents should concentrate on the educational factors of the universities over social factors, because social success is created by the individual and not the campus in which the student is enrolled in.

Make sure to take as many campus tours as possible as early as your junior year in high school. It's important to get a feel for the school and to see what kind of environment you would fit in to most. Don't base your judgement solely on the academics, but for the people, opportunities, and activities the school can provide. Make sure you can envision yourself on that campus, getting involved for and on that campus, and that you can see yourself sporting some school pride and spirit.

In my experience, finding the right college is like choosing the direction you want to go in life. There are people who go to colleges simply because it is one of the best versus more legitimate reasons such the environment of the campus/city, social life, quality of education, and affordability. With a college name, you can definitely show that off, but what does a name define you as a person and who you are going to be? Although every school has its social-life perks, it is what you will get out of a college that matters. In every campus, there is always going to be great and diverse people. Therefore, you should aim for a campus that provides the best education that you will need to get where you want to go and is surrounded by an environment that introduces you to a new type of life. Always aim for more and for the different; without diversity and challenging experiences, there is no story to tell about your college life or an experience to reflect upon and enjoy. Aim for a life and a future that will keep you interested and benefit you in the long run.

The best way to find and choose which college is best for an overall great college experience is to pick a college that the student feels most comfortable at. Although academics is a vital factor to consider when choosing a college, social networking, availability of extra-curricular activities, organizations and community are all things to consider as well when choosing a college. It is true that some colleges excell more than others in certain areas of academics; however, it is also important to be able to experience interesting and new opportunities during the years in college. Since college is a time where most individuals figure out who they are and what they plan to do for the future, it is highly important for the individual to explore, or at least to be able to explore a variety of options (whether it be in majors, internships, jobs, studying abroad, etc) since the future is not always as definite as it is planned. Overall, even though parents are focused mainly on the academic prestige of the college, it is important to acknowledge the student's decision since college is ultimately a great and lasting experience for the student.

To find the right college, it might be best to consider the road less travelled; to challenge oneself in the process of chosing. What would be considered a "challenge" as far as picking a university goes naturally differes for everyone; for one, this may mean starting at community college then transferring to a better-known college, as opposed to taking the clear, straight four year route; for another, this may mean picking a college that is far away from their parents' home. It is important that one's choice for college will represent a challenge, an opportunity to better themselves. To make the best of their college experience, one should get involved--participate in clubs, go to campus events, go to off-campus events, and above all avoid spending their free time away from the company of others. Diversions such as Facebook may offer a certain comfort and entertainment, but not true friends. Clubs and campus activities are the best way to make friends, which will help you out not only in your undergraduate career, but later, through forming the basis of job networks.

I think it's important to remember that you WILL end up where you belong. Maybe not right away, but that's okay. Do your best to get into your dream school, but if you don't, please understand that there is a reason why. I didn't get into my first choice, but I could not be happier with my education and the friends I have made at UCSD. And if someone offered me a chance to go to UCLA (my original first choice), I wouldn't take it. I have an amazing job as an event planner (something I'm looking at for a career), and I'm involved in my college (John Muir). Create a strong friend system, get a job that is both stimulating and something you can balance, and don't be to hard on yourself when it comes to grades--you'll get there.

look at the position and remember that you got accepted into that school for a re, it doesn't happen out of luck you where choosen so try your best.

Start by researching what schools offer the things that will help you get to where you want. Next, take a visit to the school to check out the student life. Campus tours are always great but I would definetly try to talk to a student, besides the tour guide, about what its really like on campus. A regular student won't feel obligated to 'sell the school' and will give you an honest opinion. It would be even better to talk to someone who is in the major that you are considering to get a heads up on what your course load will be like. I would definitely suggest living on campus your first year. Its truly not a college campus without living on campus at some point, so you may want to visit the dorms while you are checking out the school. Check out the student organizations on campus as well. See if you can see yourself settling into any of them. Student orgs give you that connection with others on campus. Don't stress out too much when trying to find the right college because most likely you'll find your place wherever you end up...

Don't be too concerned about money. The important thing is to match your own interests and temperment to the colleges you apply to. If there's a particular industry or profession you want to work in, focus on colleges with training in and access to those fields. Above all, fearlessness is your friend.

Before deciding on a college, go to college open houses. That way, you get an idea of all the activities that go around on campus, meet staff and students. Go to different club meetings and see what you like, this is a good way to meet people in or outside of your major.