University of Arizona Top Questions

You really need to look harder at your financial situation.

If I could go back to my senior year of high school, I would love to tell myself to STUDY for all of the AP exams harder than I did that year. AP classes can take an individual so far in college; there will not be a need to worry about general education courses because they are already out of the way. I would also tell myself to honor the purpose of money and not to take it for granted. It is indeed something that makes life very difficult and very easy at the same time. Being financially responsible is a part of becoming a responsible adult. The transition to college was extremely easy due to the friendly people around my campus, however, I would tell myself not to hide who I am inside; basically, being honest to myself.

I would tell myself that not everything can be planned for and that when unexpected opportunities arise, take advantage of them. This can come in the form of a trip with friends to visit a school you never heard of, which eventually becomes the one you go to. Or it could be something as simple as talking to the person who sits next to you in the first day of lecture and three years down the road you two are best friends. The transition to college life is scary, nerve-racking, and a different experience for everyone. But, because the transition is so different for everyone and such a life changing experience, you need to take full advantage of all opportunities. When you go to visit a college, make sure that you take time after you are done with the tour of the campus to just walk around by yourself or with your family, and really ask yourself is this the place that I can see myself doing great things at for the next four, six or even eight years of my life. Who knows? Maybe the opportunity of a lifetime is waiting for you just around the corner.

One: Begin taking college courses in the junior and senior year of high school. Community college classes are good ways to prepare yourself for the transition because they're a mix of highschool and university courses (has structure of a university course, but isn't as difficult). Also, you can get as much of your General Education courses out of the way so you can focus on courses relating to your major. Two: Research EVERYTHING you need to know about your major. Make a rough four year plan and set a goal. You won't follow it, but at least you have a sense of direction. Pick a major that YOU like, not one that will make your parents happy. College is tough. If you don't like what you're learning, then it doesn't matter. Even if you pass all your classes and earn that degree, you won't be happy. Why suffer all those years and then end up with a career you hate? Three: College is expensive. Get a job. You'll get money and lots of job experience to make your resume look good. Experiences are more important than Straight A's.

It is going to work out, I promise. You do not have to decide what you want to do for the rest of your life today, you have time. Savor the time with friends and family, soon they will become a occasional phone call. Just because this is your last semester, it still counts. Do not slack off. Yes, it is going to be hard to leave everything you are familiar with, but these next few years in your life are going to be the best. Apply for every scholarship you can, you are going to need the money. Live your last year in high school to the fullest. Go to every football game, dance and assembly, you don't get all of that in college. And lastly, you may not believe it now, but Tucson is going to be home.

I would tell myself to study hard, and to be less shy. Its much easier to make friends if you just be yourself!

If I could go back in time and talk to myself, I would definately tell myself to apply for more scholarships ahead of time. I would work hard to participate in extracurriculars and sports. I would urge myself to take my education seriously and to work hard to get into a better college. Some invaluable advice would be to apply for on campus housing and FAFSA as early as humanly possible. Most of all though, I would tell myself not to stress, but to prepare in the right ways by developing study habits and life skills that would help me in college, with things as simlple as going to bed on time and cleaning up after myself.

Relax when walking into that first auditorium classroom and don't panic about your first exam. Sorry about all of the short answers, but while I am serious about this application I am a science major afterall...

I would take full advantage of AP courses. The regular courses did not really prepare me for the sciences and math in college. I love the campus and the atmosphere regardless though! College is amazing!

If I could go back in time I would tell myself that Dual Enrollment classes would cut out a significant cost for my freshman year of college. Also I would tell myself to start buying things for my dorm room throughout the year as I see them go on sale or if there are great coupons. In addition I would tell myself that being away from my family is challenging, and a great way to stay in touch with them would be to purchase a computer camera. Then I would tell myself to find a well paying job and put in as many hours as possible for the random expenses, and fun expenses, that may come up while you are away from your parents to help establish your independency. Finally, I would tell myself to cherish every moment with my family while I can because we all will not live forever.