University of Colorado Colorado Springs Top Questions

What should every freshman at University of Colorado Colorado Springs know before they start?

Jennifer

I would want to do online classes, I like going at my own pace. College is expensive so don't go on a spending spree when you get there. Keep your head in your studies when it's needed. Sometimes homework can make or break you. Make the most of it because with how far you can get ahead it does go by really quickly.

Stephanie

The challenge, the rigor, the stress, of being in college bestows an aura of infinite anxiety on a student. Actually being capable of opening up to new experiences, and others, and enjoy the smaller things in life is difficult. Education is the most revered aspect of the college experience but being able to enjoy the college lifestyle creates a well-rounded character. The autonomy, independence, and complete freedom, though while eagerly accepted, give students to opportunity to self-govern themselves completely. I turned eighteen my first week of college which categorized me as a legal and official adult. With the age came a myriad of blossoming new experiences and opportunities. Yet, it is here in college and this state of mind, in this land of self-exploration, self-discovery, and character growth that I have become more at ease with who I am. In my state of stress and worry I am gradually learning to slow down and enjoy the vitality of life’s experiences. If I could go back and give myself advice as a high school senior I would tell myself to relax, be more open, and fully appreciate all the wondrous opportunities I am bestowed.

Tina

Knowing what I know now, I would tell myself that I don’t really know what I want to be yet. Despite my resolute attitude, I really didn’t have a clue what life was all about or how I was going to fit into the world. I would recommend taking multiple, unrelated classes and explore the world and the people in it. Listen to other people’s stories and understand their backgrounds and what drives them to get out of bed in the morning. Learn what makes the whole world tick, not just the small community I was from. I would also try and impress upon myself how people are not set in stone, but are fluid and ever changing, like the banks of a slowly flowing river. One’s shape and direction subtly changes with the passing of time and when I look back at who I was then. I understand now that I’m still that same river, but I’m in a different location and flow a different direction than when I began. Because of this, it’s best not consider one’s academic endeavor to be continuous throughout the lifespan and plan accordingly for that.

Megan

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, knowing what I know now about college life and making the transition the first thing I would tell myself is not to worry. I was extremely stressed about leaving high school as a senior. I had always done well in school, had plenty of friends, and involved in sports. I thought this was all going to changeonce I started college. In reality the coursework just got a little bit harder. I would also tell myself to make sure you get involved in organizations and clubs once getting to college because they are great way to meet new people and make friends. Another piece of advice I would give myself is to introduce yourself to your professors because it helps them remember you and it makes it easier to talk to them when you have questions or need help. Lastly, I would tell my senior self to remember to have fun! College is a time to learn, explore, and take risks.

emily

Dear Emily, Hope senior year is lots of fun! Watch out because it goes by really fast. Now beware, college starts in the fall and its going to be a whole new world. Here are a few key things to remember: you are going to try and be a grown-up and completely mess it up, a lot. But that's okay. You have a great support system at home to help you stand back up. Spend your money wisely, there is plenty of time to go out and have fun, but remember that money doesn't grow on trees. Be creative with the things you have! Recycle and reuse! You're good at being creative! Fall in love more than once. People grow and change and that's okay. Protect your heart but be open to meet new people (including new friends). Lastly, remember you're a part of a great family at home who only want you to be happy. Listen to their advice and remember what you have learned growing up: be yourself and work hard. Good luck in the fall! Now go have an adventure! Love you lots! ~Emily PS- Dad is not an ATM!!!!!

Michelle

If I could go back and talk to myself I would tell myself to study more in high school and create the routine that is needed in college. During high school, the classes came easy for me and I didn't need to study much if at all to excel in all of my course work. Once college started, however, it was a different story. The coursework is more rigorousand the teachers are more demanding with expectations. I now need to study for hours at times before quizzes and exams which was a practice I was not used to. I believe that if I had started this practice in my high school years it would have been an easier transition into the course work at my university.

Caroline

I would first find myself and give her a good shaking. After the shock of seeing myself from the future and past i would deliver my advice. My first piece of advice would be Cara get your life in order and don't mess around! Get that scholarship in on time and don't just put it off! Don't stress too much over your grades, you WILL get accepted to college. Friends maybe great now but they come and go, you need to be worrying more about getting scholarships in for college so you dont have to worry all summer about how you will pay for it. If you don't worry about scholarships now you might not be able to live on campus, so get your stuff together girl! Just remember that life will go on after high school and the time to start worrying about the real world is now! Remember that if someone tells you, you have time they are most likely wrong. Dont take your time get it done right away. I would give myself one final shake and say BE STRONG and COMMITTED!

Brian

Pick a good affordable school and always put maximum effort forth.

Regan

Throughout my high school career, I was very involved. I played volleyball, I sang in two choirs, I participated in musicals and plays, and I also volunteered through my school's chapter of the National Honor Society. When I kept myself so busy, I only had certain designated time when I could do my homework. Because I had a set time to get everything done, I made sure not to procrastinate as much. I have not been as involved or busy with extracurricular activities this year and I have had many problems with procrastinating and not getting things done in a timely manner. In my second semester, I have gotten much more involved and my grades have gotten better as well as my overall wellbeing. Moral of my story, get involved with your school! Your college experience will be so much more beneficial, you will meet more people, and your grades will be better. Most of all, you will have the most fun!!!

Phillip

Phillip, you don't have time to waste anymore. College is an adult experience that is the first step to adulthood. You should take a personality test like the Myers-Briggs instrument or True Colors to confirm for yourself who you are, what motivates you, and which subjects and careers you should be thinking about. You may think that you know who you are, but affirm it for yourself. Combine what you are passionate about together with what you want to do with life and create a vision for your career. Start on this path from day one and stick to it. Your childish days are dwindling; you're becoming a man. Grow! Every semester is a race to the finals. There are obstacles and tests, but you must start hot and keep making strides until the end. Push your hardest during those last moments. Apply for scholarships! Sit in the front row and focus on your education. What else will you do with your life if not educate yourself? Adulthood comes swiftly, but fear not and be brave. The world, along with your family, is waiting for you to grow up and join the adults. Live an extraordinary life.