Chapman University Top Questions

The success of each college student's expirence greatly depends on one's time management. Our undergraduate years are the only time in our lives when academics, social life, and maybe work are all connected. Especially for the students living in campus dorms or apartments, thier life is always at school. It is essential to prioritize each commitment based on it's level of importance. Also, getting distracted is so easy with all the activities and constant interruptions that comes with being at a university. It is important to have fun and get involved, but the most important advice is to do well in all classes and invest time in learning.

Follow your passion no matter what the cost.

Don't assume that what you think you might be best in at that moment is what you will be good at in college. Unless you know in your heart and soul that you have skills to pursue that interest or passion, then by all means, go for it! Give yourself the chance to look in the mirror every now and again to remind yourself who you are and what you really want. Look at your talents, gifts, and true goals and think before you act! Make sure you look into your decisions!

Pursue your dream and let nothing stop you, not even yourself

The advice I would give myself is to make my mind up right out of high school. Meaning not waiting until I am 31 or 32 years to go to college for my chosen major. Because doing it when you are older is so much harder and your mind isn't as prepared as it was when you are just graduating from high school. Because at least then you are prepared to go to college and you aren't really nervous either. Since it is a given then you can go to college. I would also tell myself that no matter I know you can do this. If you love psychology then go for it and you will make a difference in people's lives through it.

If only I could go back in time and give my senior self a wake-up call. Amongst a scroll of other issues I would address to myself, I would give myself a scholastic slap in the face. I would yell at myself for being preoccupied on the ever fluctuating emotions of my boyfriend and focus on my ever failing grades I was receiving for the first time in my life. I wish I could go back and remind myself the importance of education in line with a successful future. I would go back to the bathroom stalls I sat in at school when I was sick from drugs and tell myself that those decisions would make the difference of university or community college, living on my own or with Mom and Dad, and in the long run having a string of rinky dink jobs or starting a career. Ultimately I would tell myself to get my head out of the sand and get back to being a good student, because in college now, I certainly feel rusty on my academic skills. However I am overwhelmingly exuberant to have the tool of education back in my hands.

As a high school senior I wasted a lot of time worrying about whether I made the right decision as to which college I would be attending in the upcoming fall. All of my closest friends were attending University of Arizona and I had chosen to take the road less traveled and move to California to attend Chapman University. While I looked forward to living in Orange County and enjoying the perks that Chapman had to offer, I wondered if I was making a mistake by leaving everything I cared most about, including my friends, my boyfriend and most importantly my family. Despite all of my fears, I stuck with my decision to attend Chapman. Upon arriving, I was pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to make new friends and how perfectly I adapted to this new environment. Although it was hard to let go from what I knew best, those who chose to stay at home for fear of change, have not experienced the type of growth, maturity and opportunities that I have. Looking back, I would tell myself to replace all that worry with excited anticipation, because this decision would lead to a more satisfying college experience.

I would look more into what I am best as and find the right major based on my strengths rather than make assumptions on what I think I might be good at. Plus I would look into courses that are different from my major that would allow me to meet more people and explore things that I have never tried, because College is about learning new things that High school just can't provide for you. College is where the sky begins and the limit is the stars.

Please go to orientation. You might think it is a waste of time but it was one of the best experiences of my freshman year. I made a lot of great friends and learned a lot about the campus. Also remember that Chapman is not as big as you think it is. First, you WILL find all of your classes. There are not that many buildings and you will be able to find it, it is easier than it looks. Second, 5000 people is not a lot. Whatever you say or do will come back around. Do something shady, tell a secret, or make a bad name for yourself, and people will find out about it. It is amazing that we are not a big school and are a very close-knit community, but remember this when making decisions. Remember to be outgoing! There are SO many people at Chapman who are just looking for a friend, whether it be in the cafeteria, in classes, or at a party. Be friendly and you will not be turned down.

Get your GE courses done within your first 2 years. Bring a car, make sure you can afford housing in the area. Get involved in Greek Life!