Tacoma Community College Top Questions

What should every freshman at Tacoma Community College know before they start?

Vandara

As I am sitting by the computer typing up my goals and achievements. I want to tell you that there are so many opportunity out there and things to explore and do. Over the past 3 year, I started my first year of college and knew what I wanted to do with my life, which was to help people and educate them to have a better life. I always wanted to be a teacher but I really feel that in my heart and soul, I am supposed to help other people besides becoming a teacher. There are many interesting careers that I am looking into as I am starting my first quarter back. I want to learn to be a counselor at a local high school. I know that kids now days are growing up with no parents to single parent homes. I realized how difficult it is as I have been in that situation before. I am currently volunteering at Clover Creek elementary; I have been a chaperone for class field trips and field days. Sometimes during my spare time I help kids in reading and improving in their math studies.

Jessica

If I could travel back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, the piece of advice I would give myself would be to not become overwhelmed with deciding exactly what field I want to study in college. As a high school senior, I spent much more time than necessary weighing the pros and cons of different majors. At the time, I felt I had to decide and plan my entire future before graduation, which seemed practically impossible. Now, in my second year at college, I realize that giving myself time to try new things and discover new strengths before I make a decision is absolutely okay. I should not force myself to settle for something if I?m not ready, and I should enjoy where I am along this journey.

Bradley

if i could go back in time and talk to myself as a senior. i would tell myself to be more orginized and not worry about partying and girls focus more on my homework talk to the school about collage and my other options be more prepared dont just jump into situations i would tell myself not to cut myself short anything is posible ask for help there are alot of good people out there willing to help you better your self in school and in life and that is wat i would say to my myself if i had that choice it would of made things so much easyer

Jill

Dear Jill, Doug doesn't like you the way you like him. Stop being late to math class because you walked to the opposite side of campus to watch Doug go into his computer class. Your math grade is suffering because Mrs. Payne takes away 1 point per every time you are tardy to class. Go to class every day. Class may be boring, but your teachers are molding your future. Please don't expect Mom and Dad to pay for your tuition to Washington State University without applying for legitimate scholarships first; put effort into what you desire, and dont expect for it to be handed to you. Being proactive and organized with your schoolwork is the only way to set yourself up for success. Procrastination will ultimately make you discouraged and frustrated and failure will be the final product. Most importantly, stand up for what you know is right. Do not be easily influenced by influential people. Make informed decisions and do not follow the crowd. People will respect you more if you are consistant in your beliefs.

Danielle

Number one, any thoughts of putting college off for a year, don't! You're in a groove and it's vital you stay in it! Go straight on to college from High School. If I have the option of joining "Jump Start" then that is the way to go!! To be able to graduate with a High School Diploma in one hand and an A.A. in the other!! Wow! What an accomplishment!! That's success and it's only moving and grooving!! Now the University (4 year), but, don't settle for that B.A. ! Times are changing and it's not going to slow down. Now a days young folk need to be thinking, designing, and reaching for the goals of their Masters or even Doctrines. The economy is struggling. Secure yourself. Don't allow youself to get behind. Time is everything. A your young age it's your friend and companion now. Don't abuse this relationship. Keep move'n and groove'n young child! Educate, be bright and proud of yourself. Go and finish College.

Kalvin

If I were to go back in time and visit myself as a high school senior. I would tell myself to plan for the worst. Many problems will be coming your way and things will come crashing down.

Taylor

If i could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to take a break from school. I didn't take school seriously because I didn't have a major and now I regret it. I feel like if I would have taken a year off from school and worked and saw the true value of figuring out what I wanted to do, I wouldn't have so many wasted credits.

Alyssa

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a senior in high school, I would suggest that I further explore my options for colleges based on my intended major. Although I had a great experience at the University I attended my freshmen year of college, I was upset to learn that some of the classes I worked hard in are not required for my major. When I decided that my goal was to become a nurse, I transferred schools in order to have the best experience at a college that offers all of the courses I need. This year, I am having great success at the local community college I am enrolled in, and I wish that I had started my college career at TCC. Contrary to what others believe, the community college offers a wide variety of challenging classes, has skilled professors, and a very reputable nursing program. If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to enroll in TCC and begin working towards my Assoicate's Degree in Nursing. If I had done this in the first place, I would be much further toward my goal of becoming a Registered Nurse.

Kimberly

Knowing what I know now about college life, I would tell myself not to be afraid to ask questions. if something isn't understandably clear and use all available resources. For example, the professors have set office hours to allow students who are struggling to receive one-on-one help outside of the classrooom. There are also tutors available, free of charge, who are more than willling to assist those students who need it. Lastly, keep in contact with your advisor. He/she is there to help you ensure your success in whatever field you decide is the right one for you.

Melody

I would tell myself not to be afraid of the transition, take a leap of faith -not only in myself but in what the experience , the learning and degree will add to my life. It will give a self-confidence in ways that only attending college will give.