The University of Texas at Austin Top Questions

What should every freshman at The University of Texas at Austin know before they start?

Rachel

Going to UT has helped me to gain the tools I need in order to become a competitive member of the future job market. IIt has provided me with numerous internship opportunities, specialized classes, and faculty members willing to help you achieve your goals. I have gotten a chance to discover and be myself in a way that I think is difficult to do without going to college. I have had a chance to delve deeper into my likes and dislikes, I have gotten to experience new things, and I have gotten to take these likes and find a future job.

Natalie

If I could go back to my own self, I would tell myself to really push it to apply for more scholarships and grants because living on big campus gets expensive and its tough when I want to go shopping or eat out with my friends when I'm pinching pennies in my wallet. Another thing I would tell myself is to really check out the clubs and different organizations on campus because I'm having a hard time finding a group of people to fit into and I've learned through experience that the longest friendships lasts when you're on a sports team or in a volunteer group. Finally I would tell myself not to be afraid to get out of my comfort zone and put myself out there , because holding myself back can keep me away from all the good things I'm missing out on.

Anthony

Despite my satisfaction with the University of Texas, I couldn't get in for free, like most of the students here. If I had realized the impact of college credit and AP exams, and how much less time I would have to spend here to retake certain classes, I would have done so without hesitation (and procrastination). And even though college is already paid for through financial aid, I wish I had also taken scholarships more seriously, especially considering how available they are and how much less I would have to pay out-of-pocket.

Kory

I would tell myself to apply for every scholarship possible and to also understand that college is nothing like high school in terms of studying. When it comes to money, I only have a little. I receive financial aid, but I still struggle for items such as groceries and gas. I have only received one scholarship my entire college career. I blame myself. My parents never went to college so naturally they did not know how to properly search for applications. The advisor at my high school did not help much either, so I was basically on my own to find scholarships. If I could I would tell myself to keep searching for applications and fill out as many as possible. Sooner or later I would get at least one. When I was in high school I could get away with minimal studying and do well. In college I have to study for hours. If I could go back I would tell myself to be aware of this on the first day school. I would notify myself to not get behind on work because it is quite difficult to catch up.

Jeanine

Hey,listen and listen good. What you are about to get into, what you chose to do,it is not high school. I'm not saying it's the hardest thing ever,but it is new, different, challenging, but if you believe in yourself,you will do great. It is a different world, which means things change. You are not a child, you are an adult and this means you must be responsible for your own actions, time, money and mess. It will be hard at first, but the more you work at it, and are able to learn from the mistakes that you will wake, you will be very proud of yourself and so will your family. Something else about your family,being away from them doesn't you can't talk to them everyday. They are proud and support you and love you, so don'tbe embarrassed to call on a down day. Same thing applies with friends, even though you are bound to makemore. Don't be afraid to get involved, or ask for help if you need it. Remember you chose this, you can do this, and you will be thankful. Good luck and Hook'em !

Martha

I would have to go way back in time, because I graduated in 91' and I would tell myself an abundance of things. I know now how important it is to find the school you are looking for. It is something that you do not take lightly and you do need to have a knowledge of what you want to know in life. Sure there are a lot of challenges on what we want to do and become, but a final decision is the best. So I would tell myself to follow the dreams that I inspire and never let them go. It is a challenge, but it does make up for it in the end. I would also make sure I know that you need to go out there and make a lot of friends and refrences along the way. They are indeed very important out there.

Pamela

To really be myself and know who I am. Coming to college, you can pick your group of friends, what activities you want to become involved in, and what you want to do with your time. KNow who you are and don't change for other people. YOu will find a group who accepts you for who you are.

Shiyam

Life is unpredictable, don't try to control everything. Don't worry, but rather understand that anything can be accomplished with hard work and organization. Follow your heart, be kind to people, and smile.

Angee

I'd tell myself, "Study for the AP tests, even if it is the last 3 weeks of my senior year. Those 3 weeks could save you hours of time in college repeating classes you could already have credit for. Don't worry about the little details. Not having a limo for the prom does not ruin you life.' Whether you have a limo or not, you're going to have a good time. You couldn't have been blessed with a better life, so remember that your family is your strongest support group and they will always be there when you need them. The transition to college is a hard one, and you'll need to rely on your family for support. You're one of those kids who can study for 30 minutes and make a good grade on the test. In college, it's not like that. Be sure than when you do get to college, don't underestimate the test, overestimate it. That way, you're thoroughly prepared. Lastly, When something doesn't go your way, stay positive. Remember, you have the ability to achieve anything as long as you work hard for it."

Joseph

I would tell myself that life is too short to let it pass you by. The only way to have an amazing college experience is to be organized. Study early and often so that way when the weekend comes you will have some free time to have fun.