Academy of Art University Top Questions

Don’t be afraid. That is exactly what I would tell myself high school. Your friends may seem like they have everything figured out taking pictures with their future university sweaters, knowing exactly what it is they want to major in. Have no fear if you graduate high school and continue your education with an undecided major. There is nothing wrong with that. Gather your talents, hobbies, and interests and make a list of them. Use that list to help you discover what it is that you want to learn, master, and do for a living.Secondly, College is hard. There will be times you will think that you are in the wrong major or even want to quit. The key to success is to never give up. Every accomplishment makes everything worthwhile. Never lose sight of your goals by falling into procrastination or temptations to party more than you can afford.Finally, money is not an excuse for you not to graduate from college. Exhaust every grant and scholarship option you have. Be confident and optimistic when applying. You can’t get help if you don’t ask for it in the first place.

Having been in college I’ve learned a lot not only in class but also about life and the challenges you face entering adulthood. I’m currently a junior at the Academy of Art University and it took some time for me to get there. Transferring into a new school taught me to trust my instincts and not to settle on a school just because you got in. Its ok to go to a community college and work part time while you figure out what you want to do.When you find the perfect school that matches you its ok to have a little fun. Keeping your grades up is important but so is trying to have a social life. Don’t be afraid to meet people and have new experiences. Know that school can be a financial struggle, applying for scholarships is a great way to offset the cost of what financial aid won't cover. If you don’t get a scholarship right away don’t get discouraged keep applying, stay persistent and try to keep positive. Going to college maybe be a new beginning but staying and finishing college is what will give you a great future.

The best advice I could give to myself at 18 would be “Go to school immediately! Do not pass go, do not collect $200.” At 18 we are all convinced that we know exactly what needs to happen. Or what we think we need. Those of us who are a little older and wiser have a better grasp on the difference between the ideas of want and need. I see now that going immediately to school, even a community college, would have put me on a more direct path that would have gotten me closer to my goals faster. As fun as the idea of backpacking though Europe or moving in with a friend right after high school is, and I had a blast, believe me, the distractions that kept me preoccupied over the last 14 years changed my life in such a way that I am only now, in my 30s, getting back to where I need to be. The notion that some people have of saying they have “no regrets” is bologna. That just comes from people who haven’t admitted they were wrong. I, however, have learned my lesson and enjoying my second chance to the fullest!

Get started right away! Do not take time off! Put in all the effort you can to receive as much free financial aid as you can. Always keep your head on track and in the right direction. Give yourself the satisfaction of completing your degree to pursue your dreams of future success beyond graduation. A whole world will be opened up to you and and its up to you to make your journey a great one.

Hello past Sara, nervous for college already? You’re final high school year has only just begun. You are going to have friend drama, tests that keep you up late, and the most amazing memories, so college isn’t going to be a big problem for you. You will feel nervous and alone, but just remember everyone on his or her first day of college feels nervous and alone. The best advice that I can give you is to relax, enjoy this time. Let the transitions shape who you are, not how you feel. I would also like to tell you to go to class everyday and do the homework, it is the only way you are going to survive this higher education program.

I would tell myself to focus on my natural artistic abilities and not settle for a regular 9 to 5 job, but rather seek to land a career in a field in which I have a true passion and love for.

Dear Deidre, Right now you are probably out with your friends or doing something social, partying, maybe you are in a play at Westlake right now. I just want to tell you that everything you do comes together as time goes on. There is a time and a place for everything, and you spent highschool the right way. Life then was easy breezy, but it doesn't stay that way forever my friend. When you go onto college, stay focused. Never waste a single minute, and remember to pursue your goals no matter what anyone tells you. I know dad may be hard on you and can put you down sometimes but stay strong! It will all come together. Do that homework girl, it's not that difficult. Never forget that anything is possible if you put your mind to it. Never let anyone make you feel like less than you are. Never give up. And don't forget to follow your dream, no matter what. Now go out tonight, have an amazing time. Be yourself. And never, ever let go of that drive you have. It will take you far my friend. Love, Me

I'm not in college yet, this question doesn't apply to me. I'm sure college life is hard though, but worth it.

I would tell myself to really look into what I want my career to be. It is okay to leave my hometown, and start fresh. It is never to late to attend school, but if you are attending school be ready to work hard. Start on scholarships as soon as possible. Don't let your personal life influence your work, unless it is in a good way. It isn't always about perfection but trying the best that you can. Pick your friends carefully, they will help you fail or fly. It is okay to ask for help, that is why schools have resources. If you get a chance take it and don't be afraid to let it change your life. The harder you work the more it shows and in the end that is what counts. The only person holding you back is yourself. Things you would never expect to happen will happen, good and bad. And every time you think it's getting too hard and you can't go on, look at those who did go on, and if they can do it why can't you?

Going from high school to college is like a huge step to any freshmen college student of course you have your scares of not meeting any new people or not fiting in but all you have to do is be yourself and with in seconds you meet someone from a different state,country,or city that you might have a lot in common