University of Arizona Top Questions

What should every freshman at University of Arizona know before they start?

Iqbal

Find a school in which you are comfortable with the physical environment and the people around you. Also dont be afraid of the tuition because financial aid can be available, and you wouldnt want to miss out on the oppurtunity of attending that school and all that it has to offer, for financial reasons.

Ashley

Parents should be respectful of their child's decision and encourage them to choose a school that is strong in their personal interests, whether those revolve around social aspects or academics it doesn't matter. Both adhere to the success of the child's integration in their atmosphere and their willingness/desire to succeed. Also, it is always a possibility to transfer and that should be kept in consideration. If the school does not suit their needs well enough then it is completely acceptable but it is up to them to change it with the support of their parents. A parent is a guide and support system, not a distator, and that assures a better relationship between the child and their school.

Stefanie

I am from Maryland and go to school in Arizona. While some people think that that is way too far, I think that it is perfect. In my opinion, I am much better off challenging myself to making a whole new life. Many of my friends ended up going to the U of Maryland after high school, but I wanted to try something new and make a new path for myself. I think that students should not be scared of a challenge; yes, it was hard to adjust to a completely different lifestyle in different weather, a different timezone, and differents types of people. However, I am a stronger, more mature, more independent person because of this. I would tell parents not to force their kids into anything; if their child wants to go out of state, or even across the country, they should not only let them go, but encourage them to go out and discover what they want in life on their own. When a student can write their own life story and discover their own wants and needs, they will get the most out of their college experience without even trying.

Ezra

Take the time to visit many campuses and talk to current students and teachers. Finding the right school is a challenge and you should take into consideration the location, size and programs offered. Soical interaction is a huge part of the college experience so try to attend a college that is not in your home town in order to make new friends and learn to become independent. If you are constantly reliant on your parents or friends from high school for support and camaraderie it will prevent you from growing as an individual. College is also about learning new things and generating the skills neeeded to work in the real world so pick a school where you feel you can have a comfortable and positive learning environment. Big colleges are not for everyone so if you feel that you would do better at a smaller liberal arts school definitely pursue that path. Remember that you can make the best of any situation but finding a college that suits your needs will make it easier for you to succeed, progress and grow.

Courtney

To both parents and students, my best advice regarding the search for a great college is to look first for one that will further the student's goals. Colleges are not only the perfect place to make friends for life and have a good experience, but are the foundations for the future, and can be the stepping stone to an amazing job and a fulfilling life. The location of the school is also very important, as it includes how close a student is to family and friends, as well as the activities (such as surfing or skiing) a student can be involved in. Once the student is at college, this is the time to indulge your interests and make your dreams come true! Students should participate in clubs that get them active in what they love to do, to help them make new friends and give them a jump start in life, and take classes that excite and inspire them! Sports and physical activities are great ways to have fun and show school spirit, and finding fun study areas and study groups also help everyone make the best of their new school.

Caree

I believe that what has helped me extensively in my college experience is the amount of preparation I made in junior high and high school. I developed good study habits and set high expectations for myself. I worked hard to never give up on something I set out to complete. Taking a variety of classes helped me learn about myself and my strengths, as well as my likes and dislikes. As far as finding the right college, I would suggest looking into several institutions and making educated decisions about the best places to apply. Apply to the colleges that are most tailored to what you want out of your education. When at college, I suggest that you try to enjoy every class you take, even those you are required to take. Get the most out of your teachers. A great deal is offered at college if you are willing to search it out. Most of all, enjoy the people. Make friendships and try to become a better person. Become more of who you want to be. College is a time to learn things about yourself and about what you want from life. Learn everything you can.

Sarah

I would advise parents and students to go with their gut feeling about choosing the right school. I think that at the end of the day, if you are college-bound, then one of your best qualities is that you are able to adapt to any environment. See a few schools and do research on their programs, but you should definitely go with what feels right financially, historically and emotionally.

Heather

Find out which college has the most opportunities, and what has the most in the subject(s) that interest you. You don't have to make a choice and stick with it forever; there are more options available. Do what you want to, not what other people want you to do. It's your degree and your life, so you should do what's right for you. As far as the college experience, live how you want to, and don't worry about making mistakes so much as you should have to worry about explaining them if they're too big. The only way you really learn is by making mistakes, but don't throw your life away.

Ryan

If the student plans to live on campus, then a school that has a stong residence life program. For students living off campus, excellent public transportation. In order for students to make the most out of their college experience is to take part in as many programs/services and resources the school has to offer, many being free or incredibly cheap for students on a budget and/or looking for something fun to do along with expanding their perspectives and increasing their knowledge.

Ania

Finding the right college is about knowing who you are and what you want to get out of college. It is an oppurtunity to try new things, meet people outside of your comfort zone, and discover what you really want in life. The right college for you will be a place which will challenge your ideas and leave you with a set of values that you can rely on. You have to be willing to try anything, to accept everyone, and to grow as an individual.