San Jose State University Top Questions

If I had the opportunity to go back the first thing I would tell myself would be to start being more organized with my time. Having to go from a daily schedule to an every now and then schedule, was a big change for me. I wasn?t used to having four, one hour classes one day and then having no classes the next. Another thing I would tell myself about being organized would be to set times to study. College courses definitely require more time not only in the classroom, but also outside the classroom. Finally the last two things I would tell myself would be to get ready to gain weight and to deal with a roommate. Buffet styled cafeterias are amazing but it is important to make sure not take advantage. Eating healthy is really important, especially before having an exam or when having to stay up late studying. Lastly I would give myself I heads up on buying some ear plugs. Your roommate can be a great person, but unfortunately you can?t pick their schedules or their habits.

I was the shy, awkward girl sitting in the back of the class in High School, unable to raise her hand even though she knew the right answer. Memories of class presentations include sweaty palms, nervous hands, and trembling knees. I was never able to speak up in class discussions or stand up for what I believed in because I thought I didn't have a voice. Going to college, however, changed my perspective. In my first semester, I decided to take a public speaking class. As much as I dreaded the thought of speaking in front of an audience, I took it because I felt it would change me somehow. Taking that class helped me to gain the ability to speak my mind without fear, allowing me to become a stronger person. I finally found my voice. This new-found confidence allowed me to meet people I would be too hesitant to talk to before, to survive my first job interview and get my first job, and break free of my shell. I wish that not only in senior year, but in all my life, I hadn't been afraid, and known that I had a voice all along.

I would tell my former self to work harder in school and not be so educationally laid back. I would tell my past self that the work that he does affects his life in a huge way later on down the road, hard work always pays off in the end.

College is going to be a great experience because of the higher education and environment. Through the amazing culture of college I will be able to accomplish my goals in life. My goal is to become a civil engineer. I strongly believe in creating a better society by helping who are less fortunate than me. Through my education, I hope to get one step closer to making a real difference in the world. I plan to become a civil engineer so I can use my talent and love of math and hard work to build homes for families in need. Someday, I also hope to travel to Bolivia to build homes for the poor families there too. Enjoy everything you do, be wise about the situation and learn from them.

As a returning, adult student, there are a million things I wish I could tell my 18 year old self. I think the most important advice I can offer is this: Don?t feel the need to rush. College classes are more challenging than anything I took in high school, even the honors and AP level courses, so it?s important to start slowly and get your bearings. Even if you feel that you know exactly what you want to do when you graduate, and exactly how to get there, start with a few less units than you think you can really handle. Get your GE requirements taken care of first, and actively participate in activities related to your major; test the water slowly, don?t overload yourself, and take every opportunity given to experience your chosen field. It?s not a race; it?s preparation for the rest of your life.

The first thing I would tell myself is to consider going to a community college for a year or two before jumping right into a 4-year college. It will help to lessen the amount of homesickness. The second thing I would tell myself is that although it's nice to be on my own and away from home, remember my first focus should be school. Just because it's your first year doesn't mean you can goof off scholastically. Two other things I would have to remind myself are not to get depressed over private loans and find a way or place to relax and clear my mind. For the remainder of my year I would tell myself to value the friends I make freshman year. I would remind myself to get involved on campus. I would definitely tell myself to learn the art of networking because it will eventually become a life necessity. I will need to learn how to budget and manage between working, going to school, and being a board member for an organization. The last bit of advice would be to always make time for myself.

As a current freshman in college I would tell my high school senior self to stay open minded while transitioning to a new place. While it was difficult to move away from friends and family, dorm life becomes easier and soon starts to feel like home. Let yourself figure out who you are and what your morals are. You may come across people who live with or around you that you may not get along with, but you have to realize that in life you will be around people that you would prefer not to be. Lastely I would have to tell you that it is necessary to enjoy your college days. Make sure to stay on top of your school work, but also make sure to try new things and be open to anything. Since you will be living around all new people it is an oppertunity for them to teach you new hobbies and interests that you may want to keep for the rest of your life.

Study and know that people who are giving me advice have been there and know what it is to be in your position and they are trying to help you out.

I would help more around the house like doing simple chores like washing dishes and clothes, dusting house, vacuuming and other stuff because thats all you do in your dorm, apartment or suite. I would have had more efficient and better study habits cause college involves hours of studying a night. I would diet and eat healthy with exercise because its all on you to stay fit and healthy because bad food choices are all around along with too much time is spent studying that we dont take time to exercise and keep our muscles and heart in shape! I would buy the necessary supplies of fridge, laptop and tv so i wouldnt about late in game. I would work more often to have extra money in my bank account for housing, meal plan, book expenses which drains families!

I would tell myself that applying for scholarships early as possible is important so that you can have more money for school. Also that saving is important and that other people can influence you in negative ways that will cause you to spend foolishly. Also that if you are going to stay on campus then you should not go home all the time because it can effect the friendships you are suppose to be trying to build. Work study is also something to look into before all the jobs are taken beacause with all the college expensives you are going to run into will add up.