California State University-Los Angeles Top Questions

What should every freshman at California State University-Los Angeles know before they start?

Gary

I would advise myself to take more college visits to the prospective schools and find out what is required in order to graduate on time, (e.g. when the classes are typically available and what time). I would probably tell myself to go to a junior college first because due to my financial situation, this would be the cheapest and smartest route to take. I think I did pretty well in transitioning to college so there really is no advice that I would give myself, because I would not trade any of the experiences that I have gone through.

Alyssa

Senior year has just started. College is just a year away and I don't know what to do, where to go, or what I want to be. I definitely don't want to go to a crappy college. Let's pick out a good one, one that I'd be proud to put on my transcript. Yeah, that's how I'll pick. Stop. My problem in my senior year was that I didn't know what I wanted or what I wanted to be. I worried constantly over the fact that I had no career choices in mind yet. Advice #1, don't worry. College is set up to guide you to your career plan. Advisors and classes are all available for you to discover what you may want to do. Petty doubts were also a problem with me. What if I don't make friends? What if I hate it all? Advice #2. Dive in with optimism and not skepticism. Take that first step with confidence and know your perception shapes your perspective on this new chapter in life, don't let others shape it for you. Enjoy senior year and get ready for a awesome adventure.

christopher

If i could back in time and talk to myself when was a senior at Compton High School, i would tell myself to not procrastinate and fill out more scholarship applications. I would tell myself what to expect from the teachers and students. I would tell myself to learn and enjoy reading books because that is going to be expected of you as you progress in your career. I would also congradulate myself because i started going to college when i was in the eleventh grade at El Camino College Compton Education Center. Another thing that tell myself is to start studying more becuase you have to pay for you classes and not the government and that you should become aquaintences with other students and faculty members. I would tell him to research his career choice and the classes that are invloved. That is what I would tell him.

Lily

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to try to gain work experience as much as possible. finding a part-time job or an internship is hard. Also, explore as much as I can. Take classes or join clubs that I express interest in. Don't be lazy to do research, since that is what society and life revolves aorund. It's about what you know and what you can do. Stick with your first choice, but keep an open mind for another in the future, like a grad school. Stay connected with your friends even after graduation, so you don't feel alone entering a new school. Stay focused and be strong. If you have an opinion about something, say it. College is about developing communication skills and personal skills. Just remember high school grades, classe, readings, homework, aren't always everything. There's more to it if you want to succeed.

TIFANEY

I would say what I have said to my nieces and nephews. Make sure you have and retain good study habits. Also, unless there are circumstances beyond your control, do NOT wait as long as I did to begin your college experience. It is difficult to get back into the swing of things when you take too long of a break.

Jamie

Jamie, you are going to be alright. Do not stress. You are a smart, well-rounded young man. Your head is firmly on your sholders and you are well on your way to accomplishing your hardest goals. With your hard work and dedication I know that college will not be as hard as you think it will be. The hardest thing about being in college is being independant, and you already know how to do that. Have faith in your abilities and you will do great. Also, don't be so shy, there are plenty of friends and social networks to be made. Take advantage of your professor's knowlege, its not everyday that you come in contact with an epert in the feild you are studying. I know you can do it. Good luck.

Lidia

The advice I continue to give myself is to always follow what my heart tells me to follow. I made the mistake of accepting to attend a University of California not knowing anything about it and accepting the offer based on what my teachers and friends told me about it. I got to the University ready to begin my Freshman year, and as soon as I stepped foot at that University, UC Davis, I knew I didn't belong there. I had a weird feeling about it and that same day, my very first day of school, I decided to come back to Los Angeles. I lost a year of school, but now that I attend Cal State Los Angeles, I know I made the right choice and feel comfortable with my surroundings and polite people all over campus. I'm proud of myself and glad that I decided to pursue my Criminal Justice major at Cal State Los Angeles, seeking a career as a Probation Officer.

asya

dont procrastinate and waste more time

Carrie

DO NOT STOP!! Go to college right after high school and FINISH. Do not move out of your parents house so you don't have to worry about how you are going to pay for food, gas for your car, car insurance, etc. If you can afford it, stay in the dorms and experience the college life. Go to parties and have fun, but do your homework and get good grades. A college degree is necessary if you want a good job and don't want to have to live with your parents for the rest of your life.. Once you finish your bachelor's degree, go back and get a master's degree. Nowadays, a bachelor's degree is just a start. You really need a master's degree to compete in the job market.

Edgar

Dont wait, four years after highschool to decide to go to college, go learn feed your mind, enjoy. I see that you are a determine individual wanting a new experiance, but the streets will not be your answer. Your homies will move on as you will, its time you think about your own future. This will bring joy to you familiy who at the time does not understand you, but with an education not only will they understand you but you will be able to help them. I see in your eyes that you are hungry trust me apply NOW!