University of Phoenix-Online Campus Top Questions

What should every freshman at University of Phoenix-Online Campus know before they start?

Michelle

The biggest piece of advice I would give myself would be to not get pregnant. I was never able to finish high school because I got pregnant and decided to drop out after my freshman year. Granted things have worked out and I have a good life now. Things would have been easier had I decided to wait to have a child. Actually strike all that... everything has worked out and I wouldn't want to tell myself anything that might alter my future. I have a wonderful husband and two beautiful children and even though for most of my life I have felt like I was given lemons, the lemonade sure is refreshing.

Erica

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, knowing what I know now about college life and the transition, I would advise myself to possibly take the one year off of school as planned but not to take anymore time than that off. One year turned into ten and even though I am doing well in classes and am more responsible now than I would have been then, I could be much further in a career I love instead of just working a job that does not bring me very much pleasure or fulfillment in life. My advise to any high school senior is not to wait on their education if they ever plan on continuing it, but to take advantage of a college education as soon as possible.

Deborah

I would tell myself focus on finishing high school and attend a community college by taking math courses. In addition, I would advise myself to seek counseling from community colleges regarding my future interest in life. I would also visit different colleges outer state along with major hands -on job opportunities in a part time job. I would apply myself in understanding financial aid information for saving and investing my income for my future education. I main objective would be to try to focus on what exactly I would like to spend four to eight years in college in completing a masters degree. In accomplighing my goals, I would write down three seperate career goals for my futrue. I would educate myself on the requirements and amount of time it would take me to get there. In addition, I would speak with a progessional career counselor to seek advise in the steps I should take in order to stay on track. Knowing what I know today, I would implement a four year strategy plan to succeed in reaching my goals. Getting married early in life is something I would not get involved in at a young age.

Denise

My high school senior year was far from being a rewarding experience. I was born and raised in the Bronx, NY. I attended a school where there was much violence. Unfortunately, I did not complete my senior year. I was working two jobs to support myself. Three years later, I obtained my GED. As soon as I received my diploma, I enrolled in a community college. I always knew there was something better out there. I obtained my associate's degree in nursing in 2003. I hit a bump in 2008, when I was diagnosed with breast cancer. I was also six months pregnant at the time. Despite going through a horrible experience, I knew there was much more in life that I needed to accomplish. I am currently enrolled at University of Phoenix Online BSN program. Looking back at my childhood and high school years, I wish I had someone (a counselor, or role model) that could have guided me in making wise choices. Things are much different now, my oldest daughter will be attending college in the Fall. She is a great student. Thankfully, her transition will be a lot easier than mine. Sincerely, Denise Miranda

Amy

Responsibilities come sooner than you want. Responsibilities aren't just a part of the future, they're a part of your past and your present. Choices you've already made have impacted your future, choices you're making now cannot be covered over by hiding from them in the future. The future is not the time to start planning for your life's path. That time has come and gone, spend every present moment making up for wasted time. Parents and authority figures have told you you're not an adult, you're young and wisdome only comes with age. What they don't know, is adulthood comes with responsibilities and the responsibility of your future started long ago. Act wise young, educate yourself no matter the sacrifice and plan for your future as if it starts today.

Jessica

If I could go back in time I would tell myself to start college right away. After school I told myself that I needed a year off. In that year I met a boy and got pregnant. Because of this I put school off for years. Finally, I met my husband. I got pregnant with my second child and was put off of work because of a pregnancy related illness. That is when me and him sat down and decided that it was finally time for me to go back to school. I wish that I could go back and tell myself to go to school and get my education sooner than later. If I would have done this I would be more financially stable and able to provide better for my family. That is the best advice that I could ever tell myself.

tameeka

I will tell myself not to wait so long. Getting back into school is a lot more difficult than going straight through to college. Keep focused and head for the dream. Be understanding and don't stop. Every dream you make will come true, just strive for the best and don't stop until you get it.

wendy

I would tell myself to work hard so that I could get scholarships lined up early. I was unsure about college then and I did not know what I wanted to do so I did not go to college. I would say work hard and get into college because it is worth it. It is really hard to find a job in this economy without a degree.

Ricky

Think seriously about what you want. Talk to the advisors about what you want and get a plan in place for what you need to do, what classes you need to take, and what colleges offer the best program and educational support for you to reach your goal. Start now applying for scholerships and grants, keep looking, there is more avalable than you suspect. Ask for help when you need it, now is not the time for pride to block your way. I'd advise you to not let others discourage you, you learn differently than others but you still learn and you retain what you learn far longer than anyone I know, not only that but you can teach others effectively. Equally important to look for the best inyour education and keep your spirits up, you can do it, I know you can.

Inez

If I could go back to my senior year of high school, I would advise my self to not give up. In my senior year of high school I stopped looking at different colleges to attend because I did not think that there way a school that would accept me. I had recieved three different letters from colleges declining acceptance. At the time, I was not happy and did not want to fail again. I stopped looking for a college to attend. I then turned to doing drugs and alcohol which led me no where. If I would not have given up I would have been finished with college and on my way into my career.