University of California-Santa Barbara Top Questions

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, the first thing I would say is "your life away from home is what you make it to be." From experience, many college freshmen have a hard time transitioning from high school to a world where they are all on their own. If one stays true to who they are, focused on their goals, and has a little fun, college life away from home will be one of the best learning experiences of their life! Second, I would recommend exploring different types of courses the first year of college. Even when entering college with a decided major, there are SO many fields one can study about! When will you be able to take a sociology, environmental, and global studies class all in one semester? Third, I would remind myself to keep in touch with good high school friends. I found it is true that "college friends know who you are, but high school friends know why" and those high school friends will always be there when times get tough. Finally, "watch out for those dining commons!" The "Freshman 15" sneaks up on you- fast!

I would tell myself to stop using the credit card so much because those interest rates are terrible. I would also tell myself to develop better study habits now, because now that I just transferred, a 4-year university is no joke.

If I had an opportunity to go back to my senior year and give myself advice, it would be to apply to more scholarships and save up as much money as possible. Real life is really hard, I wish I would have listened to my family, counselor, and friends when they were telling me to apply to scholarships and grants. I've now realized that time goes by fast, and as soon as I know it, I will be out of school and demanded to pay back my loans that I had to apply for and recieve just to attend school for proper training in film production. My parents worked very hard for what they now recieve, and the last thing I would want to do is take more from them than what they've already given me. So if I could go back into time, that is what I would tell myself. But since I can't go back into time, I have to face the future, so I ask, would you make my future just a little bit better?

Dear Chailenn, I have lived your future and feel I could share some wisdom for your transition into college. While you are still in High School you might feel you have everything financially under control, but the two scholarships you receive at the end of the year only help you with your first quarter. You need to apply for scholarships as much as possible. When you get to the University you are only a number. One of the most important things I have learned is the importance of creating relationships with your professors. Really get to know your professors and their passion through office hours and research opportunities. In lecture, sit in the first two rows. It will help you pay attention, and it shows the professors you are serious about your education. Take advantage of the resources and opportunities the University has to offer. Do not hesitate to take classes in abstract subjects, expand your knowledge base. Finally Chailenn, always remember you are paying to attend this university for a purpose; to acquire the education and opportunities to reach your goals, and turn your aspirations into reality. There is nothing you cannot do or accomplish! Good Luck, Future You

If I could go back and give myself some advice to aid in the transition from high school to college, I would tell myself to be more organized. When I first got to school I tried to remember every little thing that I had to do, but I quickly learned that this was not the correct method for me. I continuously showed up to classes and ensembles late, I forgot meetings, I was late to work, and I was just generally unorganized. At the end of the quarter I decided that that needed to change. I now put everything that I have planned in my iTouch planner. All of my classes, work times, dinner meetings, and everything else that I have to do is in there. Ever since this revelation, I have not been late to anything! So my advice to self would be to not rely on memory for my hectic schedule because when you are taking maximum units, that does not work. Simplify things. Put everything in your iTouch and relax!

If it was at the beginning of senior year I would definitely tell myself to take trig/pre-cal instead of statistics because as a math major I had to come into college with that knowledge and I didn't have that. Since I did not have any trig background, then that made me struggle in my first college math class and I failed it.This is definitely a set back which could have been avoided if I had had the knowledge of trig that I needed. Another thing I would advice myself is to use the free resources that are provided here in campus; There are many ways to find help. Also, something very important is to manage my time very wisely. Having set times to study is very important in order to learn the material well and do very good in the midterms and finals.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a senior I would tell myself to be more proactive. I would tell myself that college is really hard and I have to be prepared for it. I would also tell myself to get more involved in the community and apply for all the scholarships I can. I would make sure to fill out all Financial Aid realted applications on time so I would be able to receive some aid. If I could go back in time I might even tell myself to go to a different UC or to community college so that I wouldn't have to deal with the financial difficulties I face right now. I would make sure I am well informed and ready to got to college so that I wouldn't have such a miserable experience like I am having presently. Basically I would tell myself how to prevent the mistakes I have made.

I would tell myself to study more and to not read to much into what people say. I would read more and try to be as diverse as possible. The people I go to school now did so much during high school I would like to be just like them. I would just make myself study and have better time mangagenent. I would also look for more financial aid so I don't get stuck paying back loans all my life.

The advice I would have given myself if I were able to go back to my senior self, would be to never give up. Things may look bad now but things will get better. Your education comes first. Don't slack off and don't get too caught up in trying to be social. Friends come and go. There are over 20 thousand students in this university. You're not the only one. Get as much advice as possible from other students who have already passed your grade level. Get more involved in school. Get a job as soon as you see the opportunity. Take your chances. Take a risk. Never let an opportunity pass you by. Figure out a schedule that works with you and follow it. Don't panic, don't stress, take a break when you can to get yourself back in focus. College is not a joke. You've got to pass and get ahead. Your goals are set. Now find that path and follow it. Distractions and obstacles are there. Don't let them bring you down. Don't give up because when you feel like all the doors are closing, a window is opening.

Live your high school and enjoy the times with your family. College is very different than high school in many ways. Do not procrastinate and always try to do things early. Sleep a lot while you can and lastly, learn how to take care of yourself.