San Francisco State University Top Questions

What should every freshman at San Francisco State University know before they start?

Roxanne

If I could go back in time I would tell myself "It's real. It's going to happen and you better do something to make sure you choose the right place for you." I was under the misconception that I could flourish at any school, so I didn't put any thought into the application process. I would also tell myself that "It's not going to be easy. Friends don't come in a day and you have to be brave." Once I was in college I assumed it would be fun right away, but it's hard. You're away from your family and friends and you're completely thrown out of your comfort zone and you just have to deal with it and make the best of it. The last piece of advice I would give myself is to not let anyone discourage me. I had a lot of people tell me I coldn't get in to good schools, but as a transfer student now, I realize schools accept a diversity of people and you just have to try your hardest and not let anyone dictate your limitations.

Mayette

Through the lens of a college student who has undergone much change through the various experiences that have opened my eyes to a world more insightful, I honestly wouldn't give myself any advice as a high school senior if I were given the opportunity to go back in time. My experience in high school was filled with moments that I cherish so fondly. I took risks, I made mistakes, I learned. These moments gave way to continuing clarity and growth. However, I would leave myself with this quote, "Each person you meet is like a book ready to share its knowledge and wisdom. The quality of your existence is measured by the depth and volume of your library."

Xiao

try even harder to get in to a better school, or even get in to the same school again. but just try harder than now in order for more choices.

Maribel

If i i could go back I would tell myself to apply for more scholarships and take college more seriously. I did take applying for college seriously but I could've done more research on my own.

Julianne

I'd tell myself to start alot sooner, to take chances, to bridge the gap, to ask questions, to move on and take on the challenge, to not be scared and make the most of life and pursue the dream even if you dont know the dream yet.

Amy

I am not the kind of person who wishes to turn back the clock. I recall myself at the rip old age of 18. I knew everything. I highly doubt that I could convence myself of anything. Besides, the worst vise, is advice. I wouldn't say anything to myself except that I have a grad adventure ahead of me.

Crissandra

Don't fall into the trap of going into a "safe" degree just because your afraid. But if you do do this because you can't find your passion, just keep looking. Don't ever stop going to school or take a semester off; you're bound to leave for longer than you plan. Instead, utilize everyone around you: family, friends, counselors, professors, music teachers, high school teachers, etc. These are the people who have watched you grow and can help you find what will satisfy you most in life. Take classes in other fields, go to community college and experiement, have fun. Your career is not about money, it's about doing what you love to make a difference on this earth. Stability and success will follow once you are on the path you are passionate about. Learn from other people's mistakes and don' t make them yourself. Don't live a life of regret, think about the future every second of the day. Figure our what will fulfill you and remember that helping others and doing your part to make our society better is usually the biggest step where most find their greatest joy and sucess.

Amanda

If I could meet myself in the past as a high school senior, I would encourage myself to ponder where I saw my future self and what steps I would need to take to get there. I would tell myself to follow the path that balanced my inspirations with practicality and to use the opportunities presented to me. I would engage my past self on time management, balancing work, education, and my social life. I would remind myself that there are resources available to me that may help me on my path and that I do not have to take on every challenge alone.

Michelle

If I could go back in time and talk my self through college, I would tell myself three key words, stay cool, calm and collected. It is an overwhelming process, especially moving away from home directly from high school. After having everything done for you, paid for, no worries about meals, then, all of a sudden you are alone. College experiences allow you to grow and learn from these processes and even appreciate the ease of home. There were definitely times where I just wanted to break down because I didn't know how to deal with the stress, loneliness and overall change. It was like learning how to ride a bike, I had to learn how to pedal with each phone call from home and tell myself that I was able to get through this change. Socially and emotionally my struggles have only made me stronger and learned to appreciate all I have worked for. In the end, everything has turned into memories that will stay with me forever because of my continuoues learning experiences at San Francisco State University and the unique city of San Francisco.

Jordan

Go to a school away from home.