My transition to Contra Costa College was not what I was expecting. I never thought that the classes were that hard in a community college. It’s was probably because I am currently taking classes I never had during my high school years, classes I thought that I never would have needed in the future. One of them is chemistry the other is philosophy. Unfortunately, I didn't get to enroll in my philosophy class because it was too full.
I have had a hard time adjusting to college. For example, I didn’t knew I had to sign up for classes online myself. I thought a counselor would do it for me after I saw them. I had my entire schedule planned out but because I didn't sign up for classes on time I didn't get into many of them. However, I am doing well in the class that I am taking. I am not taking the classes that I wanted at first but at least I am doing something that will help me transfer to a four-year university in the future.
Over the summer I unfortunately couldn't do much to prepare myself to college. I had to work full-time to pay for my living expenses. The most that I probably did over the summer was to take a tour of the campus to make sure I knew where every building was. It wasn't much, but at least it helped me get to know the school a bit better.
I am looking forward to do my best in my chemistry class this semester, not because I just want to pass, but to learn and understand the concepts taught in class. I am also looking forward to meeting new people and to registering for spring classes on time.
- Hector, Contra Costa College '13
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
Friday, November 18, 2011
Preparing for College
This summer I was given the opportunity to travel. Not only was I able to go to Mexico to to visit my father, but I was also given the opportunity to participated in a pre-college program at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. The purpose of the program is to prepare students coming in from low-income families for the college environment. It was an intense Psychology course that prepared me mentally and physically for this quarter. I had an idea of study techniques I could use and the pressure I would face entering this Fall. I was excited to start my first quarter I am still not sure what to expect.
During the time I was in Cal Poly I met new people in different fields of study and connections with people who can help later on in my career here at Cal Poly. I discoverer resources that I could use to guide me my first quarter in order to stay on track;such as: free tutoring, counseling, academic advisers, and so forth. As preparing me, the course challenged me with a heavy work load of material that was completely new to me. I learned through trial and error of the best setting and study habits worked for me. The course was at a much higher grade-level than I was accustomed to, however I was aware that I would face this problem soon I did what I could to understand and taught myself most of the material.
In addition to adapting to a different environment and habits I was able to open up more. Thus enabling to network and interact with my fellow peers, as well as my professor. I learned how to become less afraid because of my professor’s ability to motivate me through his lectures. I was able to prepare for the college routine I would soon face. However I am really excited for this quarter because I will begin to take introductory architecture classes, I will meet new people with common interest and I will finally be able to receive a proper education.
- Beatriz, Cal Poly '15
During the time I was in Cal Poly I met new people in different fields of study and connections with people who can help later on in my career here at Cal Poly. I discoverer resources that I could use to guide me my first quarter in order to stay on track;such as: free tutoring, counseling, academic advisers, and so forth. As preparing me, the course challenged me with a heavy work load of material that was completely new to me. I learned through trial and error of the best setting and study habits worked for me. The course was at a much higher grade-level than I was accustomed to, however I was aware that I would face this problem soon I did what I could to understand and taught myself most of the material.
In addition to adapting to a different environment and habits I was able to open up more. Thus enabling to network and interact with my fellow peers, as well as my professor. I learned how to become less afraid because of my professor’s ability to motivate me through his lectures. I was able to prepare for the college routine I would soon face. However I am really excited for this quarter because I will begin to take introductory architecture classes, I will meet new people with common interest and I will finally be able to receive a proper education.
- Beatriz, Cal Poly '15
First Quarter at Cal Poly
When I applied to the California State University, California Polytechnic State University San Luis Obispo, I also applied to the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) of the school. I was lucky enough to get in the program for it has already provided many resources that have been very helpful in my college career.
During the summer, I attended the summer program by the EOP called the Summer Institute. There were approximately sixty students, and about seven staff members that run the program. During the three week program, I lived on campus on the Cerro Vista Apartments and took Psychology and English Preparation Class. Although it was only three weeks, the Psychology was very fast paced and provided the students with four units just like in the fall quarter. We were also graded on the course. On the contrary, the English course was just a preview of how a college English would be like. Instead of the letter grade, we received pass or no pass.
The main objective of the program was to provide the first generation college students a preview of the college intensity and also build the student’s confidence in them. My Psychology instructor Don Ryujin was particularly helpful in that department. He first set the stage in which all of the students were comfortable enough to interact with each other and the instructor. He made us believe that anyone who really wants to finish college can do it, no matter the color, or their income level. He identified with us that some days were going to be difficult without any doubt but on the long run, it is always better fight through that phase.
The summer program really boosted my confidence and I am looking forward to working very hard in college. I know that even though taking Psychology over just three weeks was quite intense, the college courses will challenge my mental toughness even more, even more so without the structural supported provided by the summer program. I am also looking forward to learn as much as I can, enjoy it and apply it on practical life. I truly want to enjoy the Cal Poly SLO philosophy, “Learn by Doing”.
- Utsav, Cal Poly '15
During the summer, I attended the summer program by the EOP called the Summer Institute. There were approximately sixty students, and about seven staff members that run the program. During the three week program, I lived on campus on the Cerro Vista Apartments and took Psychology and English Preparation Class. Although it was only three weeks, the Psychology was very fast paced and provided the students with four units just like in the fall quarter. We were also graded on the course. On the contrary, the English course was just a preview of how a college English would be like. Instead of the letter grade, we received pass or no pass.
The main objective of the program was to provide the first generation college students a preview of the college intensity and also build the student’s confidence in them. My Psychology instructor Don Ryujin was particularly helpful in that department. He first set the stage in which all of the students were comfortable enough to interact with each other and the instructor. He made us believe that anyone who really wants to finish college can do it, no matter the color, or their income level. He identified with us that some days were going to be difficult without any doubt but on the long run, it is always better fight through that phase.
The summer program really boosted my confidence and I am looking forward to working very hard in college. I know that even though taking Psychology over just three weeks was quite intense, the college courses will challenge my mental toughness even more, even more so without the structural supported provided by the summer program. I am also looking forward to learn as much as I can, enjoy it and apply it on practical life. I truly want to enjoy the Cal Poly SLO philosophy, “Learn by Doing”.
- Utsav, Cal Poly '15
Monday, November 14, 2011
From Richmond High School to Cal
As my senior year in high school approached to an end, I was terrified for what was coming next. College! No one said college would be easy and of course I was not expecting it to be easy. But after constantly hearing negative comments on how Richmond High did not prepare its students for a higher education scared me even more. In some part I did agree that Richmond high did not prepare me well enough for college but then again I feel that it is our responsibility to find and take advantage of the resources offered in high school so that we get a better preparation. I feel that I did get a good enough preparation for college. Thanks to Upward Bound Math and Science I was able to get an early taste of what college would be like. After three summers of rigorous classes and mandatory tutoring I felt that I was ready for college.
During the final summer before I started college I applied to Summer Bridge during the spring of my senior year. Summer bridge made my transition to college much more easier. I did not find it as hard as most of the upcoming freshmen because I felt the same intensity I felt during my Upward Bound summers. During Summer Bridge we were placed in two rigorous classes, I was placed in College Writing and Statistics. Statistic was a nightmare for me, because the material was intense, but other than that I had an amazing time. To be well prepared for my first semester at Cal I researched for available resources offered on Campus, like counseling, tutoring, and advising programs, as well as organizations that interested me.
The first day of college was more that I expected; my Political Science class was huge, about 400 students, bigger than my graduating class. I was shocked to see so many students in one class. Unlike high school, here the professor was not going to know who I was. He would not care if I went to class or not, and he was not going to now my name. Being the first and last class of the day for me, when it was time to go, I was walking back to my dorm when I passed through Sproul Plaza. Hundreds and hundreds of people were there, either tabling or exploring. I knew this was just the beginning of an interesting college experience.
My intended goals at the moment are to double major in Political Science and Legal Studies, so that later on I can apply to Law School and become an attorney. Meanwhile what I look forward to the most this semester is finishing strong and getting good grades in my classes. I hope to learn a lot from programs like Undergraduate Political Science Association (UPSA), and making new friends in Hispanic organizations like TENZA, and Hermanas Unidas (HaU).
- Lizbeth, UC Berkeley '15
During the final summer before I started college I applied to Summer Bridge during the spring of my senior year. Summer bridge made my transition to college much more easier. I did not find it as hard as most of the upcoming freshmen because I felt the same intensity I felt during my Upward Bound summers. During Summer Bridge we were placed in two rigorous classes, I was placed in College Writing and Statistics. Statistic was a nightmare for me, because the material was intense, but other than that I had an amazing time. To be well prepared for my first semester at Cal I researched for available resources offered on Campus, like counseling, tutoring, and advising programs, as well as organizations that interested me.
The first day of college was more that I expected; my Political Science class was huge, about 400 students, bigger than my graduating class. I was shocked to see so many students in one class. Unlike high school, here the professor was not going to know who I was. He would not care if I went to class or not, and he was not going to now my name. Being the first and last class of the day for me, when it was time to go, I was walking back to my dorm when I passed through Sproul Plaza. Hundreds and hundreds of people were there, either tabling or exploring. I knew this was just the beginning of an interesting college experience.
My intended goals at the moment are to double major in Political Science and Legal Studies, so that later on I can apply to Law School and become an attorney. Meanwhile what I look forward to the most this semester is finishing strong and getting good grades in my classes. I hope to learn a lot from programs like Undergraduate Political Science Association (UPSA), and making new friends in Hispanic organizations like TENZA, and Hermanas Unidas (HaU).
- Lizbeth, UC Berkeley '15
First Semester at Whitman College
The transition to college has definitely been hard because the expectations have suddenly risen to a new level than I was use to in high school. During the summer my first college assignment was to read The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down by Anne Fadiman. When I was reading the book I started trying to read the book more as a college student rather than a high school student. I feel that in high school when I was assigned to read I would read and take in what was in the pages, but not really immerse myself in the text. As I read this book in the summer I began paying closer attention to certain words I would have just glimpsed at before. Closed-reading now in college is majorly important when we are analyzing passages and going deeper into its ideas. Reading during the summer definitely helped me prepare for the challenging reading I would have to do in college and the ideas I would have to analyze.
Transitioning to college also comes with more obstacles that have less to do with academics. At least for me, it has been emotionally challenging transitioning to college because I am living in a different state away from home. It has definitely been hard for me talking to my parents and knowing that they are at family gatherings and I can’t be there with them. The most important thing that has gotten me through the tough process of leaving home is the frequent communication I have maintained with my high school friends. The fact that some of my friends are going through similar things as I am helps me feel that I am not alone and that I can do it on my own. Another thing that has helped during the transition is taking risks.
College in my opinion is all about taking risks; a risk like taking a course you know nothing about, but you might be surprised you love it or you might totally hate it and know that’s not something you will do again. I look forward to taking risks here in college and learning about new things that I would have not considered before coming here.
- Fabiola, Whitman College '15
Transitioning to college also comes with more obstacles that have less to do with academics. At least for me, it has been emotionally challenging transitioning to college because I am living in a different state away from home. It has definitely been hard for me talking to my parents and knowing that they are at family gatherings and I can’t be there with them. The most important thing that has gotten me through the tough process of leaving home is the frequent communication I have maintained with my high school friends. The fact that some of my friends are going through similar things as I am helps me feel that I am not alone and that I can do it on my own. Another thing that has helped during the transition is taking risks.
College in my opinion is all about taking risks; a risk like taking a course you know nothing about, but you might be surprised you love it or you might totally hate it and know that’s not something you will do again. I look forward to taking risks here in college and learning about new things that I would have not considered before coming here.
- Fabiola, Whitman College '15
Friday, November 4, 2011
To Berkeley City College and Beyond
I am Janeth, a Latina who lives in San Pablo, CA. but am from Mexico. I attended Richmond High School but now I am attending Berkeley City College. For now I am not sure of what I plan to study but I am currently working on trying to get my requirements done so I can transfer to another school as soon as possible. I would like to transfer to either UC Berkley or UC Santa Cruz when I am ready to do so. I wish I could have gone as a freshman and be there now but I couldn’t afford it. High cost of education is a big obstacle for many and it was for me even though I applied and got into most of the schools. I had to settle for other options, having to stay at home and commute to school is not easy but what I had to do.
Community college is not bad after all so that’s a great way to go as well and much cheaper! I never expected college lifestyle to be like this though; it is completely different than high school. Now you have to pay for books, classes and fees. I can’t tell what some of the fees are for or why they’re charging me them.
It does have its brighter side though, your weekly schedule is not the same because you don’t have much school but the rest of the time you usually use it for the all the homework they give you. I can’t really say I prepared but I did make sure to get my classes on time and that is what I expect to do again for the following semester. I would never want to go back to high school now, college is much better I believe. So get ready because it does change your life but also make good decisions because now you’re on your own.
- Janeth, Berkeley City College '13
Community college is not bad after all so that’s a great way to go as well and much cheaper! I never expected college lifestyle to be like this though; it is completely different than high school. Now you have to pay for books, classes and fees. I can’t tell what some of the fees are for or why they’re charging me them.
It does have its brighter side though, your weekly schedule is not the same because you don’t have much school but the rest of the time you usually use it for the all the homework they give you. I can’t really say I prepared but I did make sure to get my classes on time and that is what I expect to do again for the following semester. I would never want to go back to high school now, college is much better I believe. So get ready because it does change your life but also make good decisions because now you’re on your own.
- Janeth, Berkeley City College '13
New Beginnings at Sonoma State
During my high school carrier, I felt as every year got harder, I got wiser. I believe the same will be true in college. I'm also happy to say that my decision to attend Sonoma State is working out well. Some of my biggest fears about coming to college were being away form my family and friends, not being able to cope with course workload and lastly, not being able to get involved and reach out to others.
Even though it has been difficult being away from my family they have managed to come visit a couple of times and I have gone home occasionally. I have also felt pressured from my classes, but I have dealt with those by visiting my school's writing and math tutoring centers. My friends and I are spending at least four hours a day in the library to get our homework done. In the beginning of the semester I felt as if getting involved was going to be easy, however once I began to look around at the clubs I found it a bit challenging. Here at Sonoma State there are over a hundred clubs and organizations to choose from, yet due to my homework and schedule conflicts I've only been able to join 3. I am part of QSA (Queer Straight Alliance), MOSAIC (Making Our Space An Inclusive Community) and TRUST (Teaching Responsibility Utilizing Sociological Training), an organization run by prisoners in San Quentin trying to make the best out of themselves. I also plan on enrolling in a dance class next semester.
Ultimately, college has been a great experience so far. I'm very happy to say that I have also been nominated to be a leader for the student body next year.
- Yadira, Sonoma State '15
Even though it has been difficult being away from my family they have managed to come visit a couple of times and I have gone home occasionally. I have also felt pressured from my classes, but I have dealt with those by visiting my school's writing and math tutoring centers. My friends and I are spending at least four hours a day in the library to get our homework done. In the beginning of the semester I felt as if getting involved was going to be easy, however once I began to look around at the clubs I found it a bit challenging. Here at Sonoma State there are over a hundred clubs and organizations to choose from, yet due to my homework and schedule conflicts I've only been able to join 3. I am part of QSA (Queer Straight Alliance), MOSAIC (Making Our Space An Inclusive Community) and TRUST (Teaching Responsibility Utilizing Sociological Training), an organization run by prisoners in San Quentin trying to make the best out of themselves. I also plan on enrolling in a dance class next semester.
Ultimately, college has been a great experience so far. I'm very happy to say that I have also been nominated to be a leader for the student body next year.
- Yadira, Sonoma State '15
First Semester at UC Berkeley
Honestly, I was not very excited to begin my Fall semester in college. I finished summer school only two weeks before the fall semester begin. During the summer I was part of a program in UC Berkeley called Summer Bridge. Summer Bridge was designed to help student with disadvantages –low income, came from school with a low API, etc.- to get a sense of what college is about so they can have a better transition into the Fall. Each student attended two classes and lived in the dormitories. Co-ed bathrooms were quite awkward in the beginning.
Anyways, I took a math class and a Chicano history class; both are very interesting. I did well in those two classes and it showed me what to expect in the Fall and made me adjust my studying habits. Also the best thing was that the Summer Bridge counselor helped me mapped out all the classes I needed to take for my major.
The first month of school was a wreck for me because there were some issues with my financial aid. The school had charged me out-of-state tuition and withheld my refunds from the summer because they did not receive a copy of my green card. I was charged with late fees because I didn’t have enough money to pay for all my fees. And the funny thing was that the Billing department told me they couldn't release the checks until all my bills are paid but I needed that check to pay for my bills! Eventually, the Office of Registrar realized their mistake –the copy of my green card was in some other student’s profile. I made at least 15 trips to the Office of Registrar, the Financial Aid office and farthest of all the Billing and Payment office. Because of this, I missed many events that happened during the first month.
Classes are going pretty well. I am currently taking Calculus, the Beauty and Joy of Computing, Chemistry (very hard!), and an Ethnic Studies class called Minority Living in a Majority Culture. The Ethnic Studies class is extremely interesting to me because it showed the struggles of each minority culture in America and how it is preventing them to succeed. It broadens my scope of world greatly. And I am thinking about maybe I can minor in Ethnic Studies. Of course good news often comes with bad news. I have failed my first midterm in UC Berkeley and I am sure there are more to come. I felt awful when the midterm was returned to me, but this just help me strived to study better and harder! Nonetheless college midterms are brutal!
I knew college is not going to be easy and I told myself every time I fall, just get up and STUDY!
- Xue Xue, UC Berkeley '15
Anyways, I took a math class and a Chicano history class; both are very interesting. I did well in those two classes and it showed me what to expect in the Fall and made me adjust my studying habits. Also the best thing was that the Summer Bridge counselor helped me mapped out all the classes I needed to take for my major.
The first month of school was a wreck for me because there were some issues with my financial aid. The school had charged me out-of-state tuition and withheld my refunds from the summer because they did not receive a copy of my green card. I was charged with late fees because I didn’t have enough money to pay for all my fees. And the funny thing was that the Billing department told me they couldn't release the checks until all my bills are paid but I needed that check to pay for my bills! Eventually, the Office of Registrar realized their mistake –the copy of my green card was in some other student’s profile. I made at least 15 trips to the Office of Registrar, the Financial Aid office and farthest of all the Billing and Payment office. Because of this, I missed many events that happened during the first month.
Classes are going pretty well. I am currently taking Calculus, the Beauty and Joy of Computing, Chemistry (very hard!), and an Ethnic Studies class called Minority Living in a Majority Culture. The Ethnic Studies class is extremely interesting to me because it showed the struggles of each minority culture in America and how it is preventing them to succeed. It broadens my scope of world greatly. And I am thinking about maybe I can minor in Ethnic Studies. Of course good news often comes with bad news. I have failed my first midterm in UC Berkeley and I am sure there are more to come. I felt awful when the midterm was returned to me, but this just help me strived to study better and harder! Nonetheless college midterms are brutal!
I knew college is not going to be easy and I told myself every time I fall, just get up and STUDY!
- Xue Xue, UC Berkeley '15
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Working Hard at UC Santa Cruz
My name is Nelly and I have been studying in UC Santa Cruz for almost two months. The transition to college has been really challenging. But because I have the opportunity to be a member of the Bridge Program through EOP the transition has being more easier. Through the Bridge Program I have a mentor with whom I check in every week about my academics and anything else that I may need help with. The Bridge Program helped me with the transition to college, because I had the opportunity to move in a week earlier. During that week we had an intensive writing class in where we had the opportunity to see what was ahead of us. The mentors and staff gave us advice about midterms, clubs, and other topics. This program has been really helpful, because I’ve learned how to manage my time in school.
Being away from my family has not been easy because I’ve always been close to home. I was really homesick during the first weeks. My friends really helped me out by being there for me every time they would see me upset. My roommate and I have a really good relationship and we have kept each other motivated throughout this journey. Now that I am away from them I come to realize that being far away may be one of the toughest things in college.
Academics are really challenging but I was expecting that to come my way. The Bridge Program has provided me with tutoring for my classes which have helped understand my classes and the main concepts. Coming to a big school I thought it was going to be difficult to interact with my teachers, but I was wrong. I have a class of 300 students which is named Latin American and Latino Studies the professor is so engaged with its students. He always tells us to strive for a better future, and to reach our full potential. It may be a big class, but I honestly do not feel like a number. I feel like the teachers do care about every student.
My high school did not exactly prepare me for the “college” life, but I know it prepared me more than other schools would have. I have made the library my second home I stay in the library until I am able to finish my homework. I think what has helped me out trough out the transition has been the strong support system outside and inside of school. The strong support system that I have has motivated me to do better academically.
I know nothing is perfect in life, so why question the difficulty of college? I trust myself to give my full potential in school, and hopefully obtain good grades. Thank you EdFund for giving me the opportunity to experience the college life. I promise I won’t disappoint you.
- Nelly, UC Santa Cruz '15
Being away from my family has not been easy because I’ve always been close to home. I was really homesick during the first weeks. My friends really helped me out by being there for me every time they would see me upset. My roommate and I have a really good relationship and we have kept each other motivated throughout this journey. Now that I am away from them I come to realize that being far away may be one of the toughest things in college.
Academics are really challenging but I was expecting that to come my way. The Bridge Program has provided me with tutoring for my classes which have helped understand my classes and the main concepts. Coming to a big school I thought it was going to be difficult to interact with my teachers, but I was wrong. I have a class of 300 students which is named Latin American and Latino Studies the professor is so engaged with its students. He always tells us to strive for a better future, and to reach our full potential. It may be a big class, but I honestly do not feel like a number. I feel like the teachers do care about every student.
My high school did not exactly prepare me for the “college” life, but I know it prepared me more than other schools would have. I have made the library my second home I stay in the library until I am able to finish my homework. I think what has helped me out trough out the transition has been the strong support system outside and inside of school. The strong support system that I have has motivated me to do better academically.
I know nothing is perfect in life, so why question the difficulty of college? I trust myself to give my full potential in school, and hopefully obtain good grades. Thank you EdFund for giving me the opportunity to experience the college life. I promise I won’t disappoint you.
- Nelly, UC Santa Cruz '15
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Transitioning to Cal
My transition into college has been very interesting. Coming into UC Berkeley, I did not expect things to be easy. However, regardless of me thinking I was mentally prepared enough, I was not; it was a big culture shock. I was no longer around the people I had been used to my whole life. At first, everyone around me seemed to be so much better-prepared than me. And for the first time in my life, none of my teachers had ever heard of me, knew my name, or had any expectations for me. I kind of felt lost in such a big campus. However, I was able to eventually get accustomed to the new environment, learn to meet my teachers and ask for help during office hours, and learned to use my resources on campus like the student learning center and tutors.
I had spent my summer preparing for my first semester by attending CalSO which was my orientation, looking online, and calling people for advice on which courses to take. This was somewhat stressful, but eventually I got it done, and ended up with a schedule that I really enjoy. However, I think my biggest challenge was when midterm time came. That is where I felt the greatest change, and when I realized that I was going to have to change certain habits if I wanted to be successful. After receiving my midterm grades, I was happy that I passed, but I was not satisfied enough. That is when I began a great adjustment period; I had to think and learn where I studied best, where I was the most productive, and at what times. Therefore, although I did not start school performing as great as I did on my first set of midterms, the important thing is that I was not discouraged by this and created a plan for myself to be more successful.
However, not everything is as bad as it might sound. Although it is a challenge, I enjoy it. It has already pushed me into doing great things. For example, I am currently doing ethnographic research for my College Writing and Research class.
Also, I applied to, interviewed for, and was accepted into a wonderful program at UC Berkeley called the Biology Scholars Program. Through this program, I have been also been able to find great support and guidance. Now, I am just looking forward to improving myself in my upcoming midterms, continue doing research, learn more, and meet even more amazing and inspiring people.
- Fabiola, UC Berkeley '15
I had spent my summer preparing for my first semester by attending CalSO which was my orientation, looking online, and calling people for advice on which courses to take. This was somewhat stressful, but eventually I got it done, and ended up with a schedule that I really enjoy. However, I think my biggest challenge was when midterm time came. That is where I felt the greatest change, and when I realized that I was going to have to change certain habits if I wanted to be successful. After receiving my midterm grades, I was happy that I passed, but I was not satisfied enough. That is when I began a great adjustment period; I had to think and learn where I studied best, where I was the most productive, and at what times. Therefore, although I did not start school performing as great as I did on my first set of midterms, the important thing is that I was not discouraged by this and created a plan for myself to be more successful.
However, not everything is as bad as it might sound. Although it is a challenge, I enjoy it. It has already pushed me into doing great things. For example, I am currently doing ethnographic research for my College Writing and Research class.
Also, I applied to, interviewed for, and was accepted into a wonderful program at UC Berkeley called the Biology Scholars Program. Through this program, I have been also been able to find great support and guidance. Now, I am just looking forward to improving myself in my upcoming midterms, continue doing research, learn more, and meet even more amazing and inspiring people.
- Fabiola, UC Berkeley '15
My First Semester at UC Berkeley
I didn’t believe people when they said, “Don’t worry, time will go by quickly.” I look at how quickly it has gone by and can’t believe there’s less than two months before I finish my first semester at UC Berkeley.
I remember attending my first lecture on Friday, August 26 at 8 AM. Compared to the classrooms in high school these classrooms are humungous. There were no longer desk rows of five; now there are rows of 10 or more. I am satisfied with my schedule since I am done with classes before 1 every day. Compared to high school we spend fewer hours in class, as a result there is plenty of free time. I soon realized after the first week of class that free time was supposed to be spent studying, going to tutoring and visiting professors during office hours. There are some days when I spend the whole day at the Student Learning Center getting math tutoring. Asking for help, going to tutoring and office hours have become a routine.
My roommate Lizbeth and I are lucky to live in Unit 3, which is the closest dorm to the south side of campus, where many of my classes are. Out of our 36 floormates only 3 of us are Latino. I felt culture shock since most students at Richmond High School are of the same ethnicity as me. When I first moved in I was afraid that the restrooms would get dirty very quickly since they’re co-ed, but our floormates are very hygienic. Our floor is very social in that we all get along very easily. We help each other out in many ways, from assisting with homework to sewing someone’s jeans. I have made many friendships which I know will continue to support me throughout my time here.
- Maria, UC Berkeley '15
I remember attending my first lecture on Friday, August 26 at 8 AM. Compared to the classrooms in high school these classrooms are humungous. There were no longer desk rows of five; now there are rows of 10 or more. I am satisfied with my schedule since I am done with classes before 1 every day. Compared to high school we spend fewer hours in class, as a result there is plenty of free time. I soon realized after the first week of class that free time was supposed to be spent studying, going to tutoring and visiting professors during office hours. There are some days when I spend the whole day at the Student Learning Center getting math tutoring. Asking for help, going to tutoring and office hours have become a routine.
My roommate Lizbeth and I are lucky to live in Unit 3, which is the closest dorm to the south side of campus, where many of my classes are. Out of our 36 floormates only 3 of us are Latino. I felt culture shock since most students at Richmond High School are of the same ethnicity as me. When I first moved in I was afraid that the restrooms would get dirty very quickly since they’re co-ed, but our floormates are very hygienic. Our floor is very social in that we all get along very easily. We help each other out in many ways, from assisting with homework to sewing someone’s jeans. I have made many friendships which I know will continue to support me throughout my time here.
- Maria, UC Berkeley '15
Transitioning to San Luis Obispo
I am Lisa, a 2011 alumni of El Cerrito High School. I am currently studying for my Bachelor's degree for Computer Engineering at California Polytechnic State University at San Luis Obispo. After a few weeks of being here at Cal Poly, my nervousness has gone away by now. My transition to this college was fairly smooth. During the summer, I attended a summer program called the Summer Institute, or known as SI for short. SI was a six unit, three week course that involved in a lot of bonding activities. Everyone was low-income, we had similar classes together, and I might have even found a new best friend! These three weeks passed by so quickly and I had a blast. I was able to grasp that studying is important, but not without having fun.
Just when I thought SI allowed me to become ready once fall quarter starts, there was also the Week of Welcome, or known as WOW, for first year and transfer students. While SI was academic based, WOW was just pure abundance of fun and laughter. WOW showed me that I can have fun without drinking. We went indoor rock climbing, kayaking, and even to the beach; we saw presentations about diversity, alcohol, and being responsible is important. This was week amazing because everyone in the group lost their "cool card" by the end of the week and we got close to each other.
With this SI and Week of Welcome in mind, I was able to hit the ground running, knowing that I can study and have fun at the same time. So far, as of September 28, 2011, my first two weeks of the fall quarter has been treating me fairly well. I am currently taking fifteen units and my classes are Calculus III (4 units), English (4 units), Introduction to Computing (4 units), Computer Engineering Orientation (1 unit), First Year Seminar (1 Unit), and a Calculus III Workshop (1 unit). I still believe that I have some adjusting to do in terms of sleeping, studying and determining what I should give priority for, such academic programs and clubs but I believe that I have what it takes for Fall 2011.
- Lisa, Cal Poly SLO '15
Just when I thought SI allowed me to become ready once fall quarter starts, there was also the Week of Welcome, or known as WOW, for first year and transfer students. While SI was academic based, WOW was just pure abundance of fun and laughter. WOW showed me that I can have fun without drinking. We went indoor rock climbing, kayaking, and even to the beach; we saw presentations about diversity, alcohol, and being responsible is important. This was week amazing because everyone in the group lost their "cool card" by the end of the week and we got close to each other.
With this SI and Week of Welcome in mind, I was able to hit the ground running, knowing that I can study and have fun at the same time. So far, as of September 28, 2011, my first two weeks of the fall quarter has been treating me fairly well. I am currently taking fifteen units and my classes are Calculus III (4 units), English (4 units), Introduction to Computing (4 units), Computer Engineering Orientation (1 unit), First Year Seminar (1 Unit), and a Calculus III Workshop (1 unit). I still believe that I have some adjusting to do in terms of sleeping, studying and determining what I should give priority for, such academic programs and clubs but I believe that I have what it takes for Fall 2011.
- Lisa, Cal Poly SLO '15
First Year at Santa Cruz
My transition to college was pretty difficult. It almost seemed or it still seems like I am the only one struggling with how the college system works, the way we sign up for classes and the flexible schedule but I know I’m not the only one. Being the only daughter in my family to strive for higher education while the rest of my siblings are working just so we can stay as a family financially stable is very difficult especially when you know that you are miles and miles away from them and there is nothing you can do for them. The reason why I chose to go to college was because of my family, because I want to help them and get a career so they do not have to worry about financial needs anymore. I always remind myself why I wanted to be in college and it makes me so much stronger knowing I will be helping my family in the long run.
This summer I prepared to move out. When I was younger, I always wanted to move away for college and that was the only thing I can think of. Until the summer before college started, was when it actually hit me that I won’t be at home to help with anything besides doing well in school for them. Leaving my parents, my first niece and my grandpa who is really sick is what saddened me the most. Spending time with my family as much as I can before leaving to college is what I did over the summer. Although I am closer to home than the rest of my peers and floor mates, no one will ever understand my difficulty of leaving home.
This quarter at Santa Cruz, I am looking forward to getting closer to my Resident Assistant and my floor mates. I am hoping that I will be able to balance school especially when you have to study double the amount alone with my fellowship, family and clubs. I hope I can maintain the work load and be able do and finish my work in time and not last time. I hope I can get used to being independent.
- Stacy, UC Santa Cruz '15
This summer I prepared to move out. When I was younger, I always wanted to move away for college and that was the only thing I can think of. Until the summer before college started, was when it actually hit me that I won’t be at home to help with anything besides doing well in school for them. Leaving my parents, my first niece and my grandpa who is really sick is what saddened me the most. Spending time with my family as much as I can before leaving to college is what I did over the summer. Although I am closer to home than the rest of my peers and floor mates, no one will ever understand my difficulty of leaving home.
This quarter at Santa Cruz, I am looking forward to getting closer to my Resident Assistant and my floor mates. I am hoping that I will be able to balance school especially when you have to study double the amount alone with my fellowship, family and clubs. I hope I can maintain the work load and be able do and finish my work in time and not last time. I hope I can get used to being independent.
- Stacy, UC Santa Cruz '15
Moving to Los Angeles
My name is Michelle, and I'm from Richmond, CA. I recently began my first year at UCLA. Although I haven't yet declared a major, I find a strong interest in the social sciences, particularly political science. Although this past summer was the longest I've ever experienced, time seemed to go by quickly as I stayed busy spending time with family and friends, working and preparing for college. Preparing to move hundreds of miles away, I wanted to make sure to secure my familial and social relationships and have much fun as I possibly could before entering college. During the days I would work at the local swimming pool as a lifeguard and swim instructor in order to save money for school, and at night I made sure to have family dinner. I also spent a lot of my summer making lists: lists of things I needed to purchase or pack, books to read, forms to fill out for UCLA and scholarships, etc. Getting into school was the easy part, being ready was a lot more difficult.
- Michelle, UCLA '15
- Michelle, UCLA '15
First Semester at SF State
My transition to college has not been as hard as for many other college freshmen. I believe that my transition to college has not been that hard because during the summer I attend to a program called the Engineering Institute in San Francisco State University. I met many students currently enrolled in San Francisco State, I kept in touch with them through out the rest of the summer and when I started school, they were there to help me for any question I had. Academically I feel that Calculus is a really difficult subject although I am struggling, I am going to tutoring sections so I can understand all the concepts. I believe that engineering is one of the hardest careers in college because a lot of math and science is require, but I feel confidant that I will do an okay job. I joined SHPE an organization for engineers and they provided a lot of help for students. I also joined MESA and they tutor me and help me find connections to other organizations within the campus.
College is a totally different world and I think that time management is one of the challenges I am facing because there are a million of things that I want to do, but I can’t. I also met a lot of people in San Francisco State, they have been helping in certain thins that I don’t understand. Another challenge that I am facing is the comminuting all the way from Richmond to Daly City. It takes a while to get to the University, but it also provides me time to do my readings and do homework. I feel confident that I will surpass all this challenges in my new college life.
- Jose, SFSU '15
College is a totally different world and I think that time management is one of the challenges I am facing because there are a million of things that I want to do, but I can’t. I also met a lot of people in San Francisco State, they have been helping in certain thins that I don’t understand. Another challenge that I am facing is the comminuting all the way from Richmond to Daly City. It takes a while to get to the University, but it also provides me time to do my readings and do homework. I feel confident that I will surpass all this challenges in my new college life.
- Jose, SFSU '15
Looking Forward to SJSU
During the summer to prepare for college, I attended my orientation which is where I had the opportunity to register for my classes, familiarize myself with San Jose State and my freshmen class. Before the summer orientation, I was nervous and excited about starting college in the fall. During my orientation, I had the opportunity to meet the faculty, staff, upperclassmen, freshmen and experienced a tour of the whole campus. I gained knowledge about the wonderful services that the school’s programs provide such as EOP. EOP provides tutoring services, advising, volunteer opportunities, and many more.
After attending orientation, I felt more than prepared to begin my college education at San Jose State and also motivated to get involved with the campus community. This semester I am looking forward to meeting new people and create lifelong friendships. I'd like to make friends who will support me not only in college, but in my life following graduation.
I am looking forward to pushing myself to earn the best grades possible because in high school I settled for only passing my classes. I now have a second chance to earn excellent grades in school. I am looking forward to getting actively involved with my school, and I’m debating whether or not I should join a fraternity. I definitely want to volunteer as much as I can with student organizations. From orientation, I was told that EOP provides countless volunteering opportunities for its students so I’m definitely going to look into that more as the semester progresses.
- Edgar, SJSU '15
After attending orientation, I felt more than prepared to begin my college education at San Jose State and also motivated to get involved with the campus community. This semester I am looking forward to meeting new people and create lifelong friendships. I'd like to make friends who will support me not only in college, but in my life following graduation.
I am looking forward to pushing myself to earn the best grades possible because in high school I settled for only passing my classes. I now have a second chance to earn excellent grades in school. I am looking forward to getting actively involved with my school, and I’m debating whether or not I should join a fraternity. I definitely want to volunteer as much as I can with student organizations. From orientation, I was told that EOP provides countless volunteering opportunities for its students so I’m definitely going to look into that more as the semester progresses.
- Edgar, SJSU '15
Transitioning to San Jose State
Transitioning to college has made me realize how a person starts becoming independent. I am now two months into college, living on campus and realizing that a new transition to a new environment can be very challenging.
At first when I started to get settled in it was a week before school started. All I focused on during that week was meeting new people and trying to figure out what kind of paperwork I needed to turn in regarding my remedial classes. As a remedial student and part of the EOP program I am required to attend tutoring for 90 minutes per remedial class. I am currently taking two remedial classes which are English and Math. I was a bit ashamed at first because “remedial” to me sounds like someone that doesn’t know or understands a concept. However, I noticed that the majority of freshman students here at San José State take remedial classes. I did not feel alone or ashamed once I started taking the courses.
The first week of school began, and right away when I entered I knew that the teacher meant business. The very first day we only went through the syllabus or what they call the green sheet, and I started to notice that everything was going to be fast-paced. This made me realize that college is nothing compared to high school. After the first week is when I started to feel the pressure. Essays were due the next day of class as well as any other homework that was given. As of today, I have been through two midterms and they were intense. I put all my hard work and I studied numerous hours and felt pretty confident on some of the midterms.
Overall, I am still getting adjusted to the face-paced life of college. I have learned how to value my time because it goes by very quickly when I am studying. College by far has been a great experience I have learned valuable multi-tasking and time-management skills.
- Alejandra, SJSU '15
At first when I started to get settled in it was a week before school started. All I focused on during that week was meeting new people and trying to figure out what kind of paperwork I needed to turn in regarding my remedial classes. As a remedial student and part of the EOP program I am required to attend tutoring for 90 minutes per remedial class. I am currently taking two remedial classes which are English and Math. I was a bit ashamed at first because “remedial” to me sounds like someone that doesn’t know or understands a concept. However, I noticed that the majority of freshman students here at San José State take remedial classes. I did not feel alone or ashamed once I started taking the courses.
The first week of school began, and right away when I entered I knew that the teacher meant business. The very first day we only went through the syllabus or what they call the green sheet, and I started to notice that everything was going to be fast-paced. This made me realize that college is nothing compared to high school. After the first week is when I started to feel the pressure. Essays were due the next day of class as well as any other homework that was given. As of today, I have been through two midterms and they were intense. I put all my hard work and I studied numerous hours and felt pretty confident on some of the midterms.
Overall, I am still getting adjusted to the face-paced life of college. I have learned how to value my time because it goes by very quickly when I am studying. College by far has been a great experience I have learned valuable multi-tasking and time-management skills.
- Alejandra, SJSU '15
Monday, October 17, 2011
Adjusting to SFSU
It still has not hit me that I am in college now. I feel like I'm at a bigger high school in a way. Getting use to the campus was not an issue due the fact that I spent two weeks of my summer there for an engineering program. I'm glad that I attended SFSU instead of UC Davis because living at home is a lifesaver; I get to eat and live for free. Who wouldn't want that?! Besides, after eating the campus food for two weeks, I knew I would not be able to tolerate living there for a semester. I began majoring in mechanical engineering but after questioning my interest I figured that electrical engineering was the best choice for me.
I am beginning to travel down a new path and leave my past behind. Some of my friendships have ended without me even realizing it because everyone, including myself is going their separate way in life. I'm beginning to feel overwhelmed with the number of classes I have to take. For times like this I would turn to my friends and it is very difficult to do so in a letter.
All my classes are simple except engineering graphics in which I don't even need anymore. AutoCAD is brutal but I'm getting the hang of it. Other than that everything else concerning my classes is fine. I have decided to take summer classes at the local junior college so I won't be a semester behind in science. The late night homework sessions are extremely stressful. Caffeine has become my best friend.
- Ashley, SFSU '15
I am beginning to travel down a new path and leave my past behind. Some of my friendships have ended without me even realizing it because everyone, including myself is going their separate way in life. I'm beginning to feel overwhelmed with the number of classes I have to take. For times like this I would turn to my friends and it is very difficult to do so in a letter.
All my classes are simple except engineering graphics in which I don't even need anymore. AutoCAD is brutal but I'm getting the hang of it. Other than that everything else concerning my classes is fine. I have decided to take summer classes at the local junior college so I won't be a semester behind in science. The late night homework sessions are extremely stressful. Caffeine has become my best friend.
- Ashley, SFSU '15
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Graduation from UPenn and Next Steps
My name is Brian Mertens, and I am an alumnus of El Cerrito High School, Class of 2007. This May, I graduated from the University of Pennsylvania summa cum laude with a Bachelors of Arts in Health and Societies. At Penn, I strengthened my writing and analytical skills and gained valuable exposure to the fields of health, sociology, and history. This year, I am remaining in Philadelphia to complete a one-year fellowship with Juvenile Law Center. As its Associate for Youth Engagement, I am responsible for supervising two youth groups: one group of young people who have experience in the foster care system and another group that has experience with the juvenile justice system. Working with these youth, I plan to help advocate for meaningful changes within these systems to help improve the lives of the young people who are in them.
The Ed. Fund played an important role in my twelve years of education in the West Contra Costa Unified School District. It provided funding for ECHS’s Literary Arts Magazine, which I managed as Editor in Chief. This money helped show the work of El Cerrito’s talented young writers and artists and provided valuable experience for me and the magazine’s staff in editing, production, leadership, and sales. The Ed. Fund also generously provided me with its West Contra Costa Retired Educators scholarship, which helped my family pay for the costs of attending my school. As a proud alumnus of both El Cerrito High and the University of Pennsylvania, I am proud of the Ed. Fund’s continued support of district students like me. Their investment in students enables young people to achieve their goals and dreams from coast to coast. Thank you, Ed. Fund!
- Brian Mertens, UPenn '11
The Ed. Fund played an important role in my twelve years of education in the West Contra Costa Unified School District. It provided funding for ECHS’s Literary Arts Magazine, which I managed as Editor in Chief. This money helped show the work of El Cerrito’s talented young writers and artists and provided valuable experience for me and the magazine’s staff in editing, production, leadership, and sales. The Ed. Fund also generously provided me with its West Contra Costa Retired Educators scholarship, which helped my family pay for the costs of attending my school. As a proud alumnus of both El Cerrito High and the University of Pennsylvania, I am proud of the Ed. Fund’s continued support of district students like me. Their investment in students enables young people to achieve their goals and dreams from coast to coast. Thank you, Ed. Fund!
- Brian Mertens, UPenn '11
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
College Experiences
It’s August, and I have twelve days before classes commence. Some recent high school graduates might be anxious, thinking this is their last summer as a kid before college starts. I’m anxious because this is my last summer before the “real world” begins, and I have twelve days left to make the most of it. Thinking about time in this manner really makes me grateful for the experiences I’ve had in college and hopeful that this next year will be even greater than the years before.
This past year at USC, I really got to focus on my film production major and take classes that nurtured my creativity and developed my directing skills. The spring semester was crazy because I produced a thesis film – which took up so much of my life, but really prepared me for the responsibility and work-ethic that go into making a film. The challenge of producing led me to the opportunity to apply to direct a thesis film – which has been a hope of mine since I began at USC. After weeks of nervously preparing for the interview with the faculty – I am happy to say that my team was selected and I will be directing a twelve-minute thesis this upcoming semester! This summer I interned in the Physical Production department at Focus Features, which gave me a greater understanding of how the film industry operates, which I can apply when I direct this fall. I feel that all of my hard work has paid off and now I am ready to undergo the toughest task I will have in college – and it brings me closer to my dream of being a filmmaker.
I really want to thank the Ed Fund for contributing to my college experience by taking the weight off of tuition so that I may focus on my schoolwork. For as much as I have accomplished in college, there is still much that I want to do. Along with taking film classes this semester, I have also decided to take two electives that have always interested me: piano and sailing. To all you students who are about to enter your first year of college, truly make the most of it. Be open to new ideas and welcome the chance to work on projects that you can be passionate about. College goes by so fast, and you really don’t want to regret passing opportunities. My best of luck to you as you prepare for that first year – enjoy challenging yourself and have fun.
- Kelly, USC '12
This past year at USC, I really got to focus on my film production major and take classes that nurtured my creativity and developed my directing skills. The spring semester was crazy because I produced a thesis film – which took up so much of my life, but really prepared me for the responsibility and work-ethic that go into making a film. The challenge of producing led me to the opportunity to apply to direct a thesis film – which has been a hope of mine since I began at USC. After weeks of nervously preparing for the interview with the faculty – I am happy to say that my team was selected and I will be directing a twelve-minute thesis this upcoming semester! This summer I interned in the Physical Production department at Focus Features, which gave me a greater understanding of how the film industry operates, which I can apply when I direct this fall. I feel that all of my hard work has paid off and now I am ready to undergo the toughest task I will have in college – and it brings me closer to my dream of being a filmmaker.
I really want to thank the Ed Fund for contributing to my college experience by taking the weight off of tuition so that I may focus on my schoolwork. For as much as I have accomplished in college, there is still much that I want to do. Along with taking film classes this semester, I have also decided to take two electives that have always interested me: piano and sailing. To all you students who are about to enter your first year of college, truly make the most of it. Be open to new ideas and welcome the chance to work on projects that you can be passionate about. College goes by so fast, and you really don’t want to regret passing opportunities. My best of luck to you as you prepare for that first year – enjoy challenging yourself and have fun.
- Kelly, USC '12
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Study Trip to UC Santa Cruz
Attending Spring Spotlight on April 21st at UC Santa Cruz was not only insightful, but very fun as well. Zuhair, the Ed. Fund Program Assistant, Nelly, an LPS-Richmond student whom I befriended quite quickly, and I met at the Richmond BART station and drove to Santa Cruz to be welcomed by faculty and volunteer workers. We were directed to the Cultural Center for refreshments and then we sat and listened to a presentation about UC Santa Cruz, its colleges, and important deadlines for admitted students. Next, we were paired with our tour guide who showed us a dorm room, the quad (from which you could see the ocean), and one of UC Santa Cruz’s five dining halls and one of its five libraries. The tour guide was really funny and charismatic, so he made the tour very enjoyable. We learned that UCSC was rated one of the most beautiful campuses by Forbes Magazine and has some of the happiest and healthiest students. While I was there, I felt like I was at Yosemite because the school looks like a national park. UCSC is also the largest of the UCs in terms of land, with the least amount of students. I liked this because even though the school is big, I felt like I was at a small school like Saint Mary’s. Everything felt close-knit.
6:30pm came around and we had the pleasure of sitting in on an introductory course to Latin American and Latino Studies (LALS) taught by Assistant Professor Hector Perla. This was probably one of my favorite things we did at Santa Cruz because I am considering majoring in Latin American and Latino Studies and then becoming a professor. I found the lecture very interesting, except I was unfamiliar with a term the professor used: “neo-liberal” which he later defined for me. He ended lecture early and we had the pleasure of meeting him. I spoke to him about research opportunities at UCSC and the LALS major. He told me that the professors in the LALS department are passionate about what they do and care a lot about helping students achieve their goals. He also informed me that in three to four years they will offer an LALS Ph.D program which will be perfect timing for when I graduate with my bachelor’s degree. He gave me his business card and said that I could get a copy of the course syllabus if I emailed him. I plan on enrolling in his class this fall.
The visit to UCSC allowed me to make my decision between attending Saint Mary’s College and UC Santa Cruz. Many of the resources I thought wouldn’t be available to me at UCSC are actually there. I was scared that at UC Santa Cruz I would get lost in a pool of students and not get the help I may need. After visiting the school, I can see that UCSC is a great fit for me, and what I wish to accomplish in the future.
- Margarita, UC Santa Cruz '15
6:30pm came around and we had the pleasure of sitting in on an introductory course to Latin American and Latino Studies (LALS) taught by Assistant Professor Hector Perla. This was probably one of my favorite things we did at Santa Cruz because I am considering majoring in Latin American and Latino Studies and then becoming a professor. I found the lecture very interesting, except I was unfamiliar with a term the professor used: “neo-liberal” which he later defined for me. He ended lecture early and we had the pleasure of meeting him. I spoke to him about research opportunities at UCSC and the LALS major. He told me that the professors in the LALS department are passionate about what they do and care a lot about helping students achieve their goals. He also informed me that in three to four years they will offer an LALS Ph.D program which will be perfect timing for when I graduate with my bachelor’s degree. He gave me his business card and said that I could get a copy of the course syllabus if I emailed him. I plan on enrolling in his class this fall.
The visit to UCSC allowed me to make my decision between attending Saint Mary’s College and UC Santa Cruz. Many of the resources I thought wouldn’t be available to me at UCSC are actually there. I was scared that at UC Santa Cruz I would get lost in a pool of students and not get the help I may need. After visiting the school, I can see that UCSC is a great fit for me, and what I wish to accomplish in the future.
- Margarita, UC Santa Cruz '15
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Underclassman Years at SFSU
My name is Claudia, I am a sophomore and currently attending San Francisco State University. I graduated from Richmond High school in 2009. My first year in college had a lot of ups and downs but overall it was a good year. Prior to my freshman year in college i attended a summer bridge program at SF State that would help prepare me for my classes during the fall. i believe that if it wasn't for this program, i would have been struggling a lot during my first semester of college. although, i had no vacation all throughout summer, i enjoyed this program a lot. Not only did it help me achieve academically, but it allowed me to make really good friends and it exposed me to college life. I took 3 classes, freshman English, math and another class that introduced incoming freshmen to services on campus. My English class was my favorite. It took me a while to get used to it because in high school we are taught to write an essay in a 5 paragraph structure. When i got to college, all of this changed. The teacher would constantly tell me to break away from that structure since it was no longer necessary, but it was hard for me because that was what i had learned for 4 years. Eventually i did break away, my writing was stronger at the end and it prepared me for my fall classes. I am very grateful that I had the opportunity to participate in this program and I would recommend that every incoming freshman takes it to get a glimpse of what college life is all about.
During my freshman year I was living in the dorms. This was a crazy experience. I really liked my roommate, we were a lot like each other and we got along really good which was perfect since I had heard a lot of crazy stories about bad roommates. I was very fortunate to find this person, we are still living together. My room was not big at all. It was your typical dorm, two beds, two desks,two closets, and no bathroom. We had to share our bathroom with 20 + girls that lived in our same floor. It was not a pleasant experience. My floor was co-ed so our neighbors were guys and fortunately they were really nice and we turned out to be really good friends. I would say that the dorms allowed me to make new friends since you practically had to live with everyone that was in our floor. Resident life was also very good and fun. The RA's would plan a lot of fun events that brought everyone together as well as informed you about things that were going on around campus and the community. The only downside to living in the dorms was that you had no privacy at all. Also, it was really hard to do any homework. Our floor was really noisy so it was hard to get any work done. I would go to the library and finish my homework there which was great because it allowed me to concentrate better and get my work done.
During my freshman year I was living in the dorms. This was a crazy experience. I really liked my roommate, we were a lot like each other and we got along really good which was perfect since I had heard a lot of crazy stories about bad roommates. I was very fortunate to find this person, we are still living together. My room was not big at all. It was your typical dorm, two beds, two desks,two closets, and no bathroom. We had to share our bathroom with 20 + girls that lived in our same floor. It was not a pleasant experience. My floor was co-ed so our neighbors were guys and fortunately they were really nice and we turned out to be really good friends. I would say that the dorms allowed me to make new friends since you practically had to live with everyone that was in our floor. Resident life was also very good and fun. The RA's would plan a lot of fun events that brought everyone together as well as informed you about things that were going on around campus and the community. The only downside to living in the dorms was that you had no privacy at all. Also, it was really hard to do any homework. Our floor was really noisy so it was hard to get any work done. I would go to the library and finish my homework there which was great because it allowed me to concentrate better and get my work done.
My classes during my freshman year were alright. I believe that the first two years of college are not so interesting since you have to take random classes that have nothing to do with your major. I did find some classes that I really liked during my first year. I took a couple of Raza classes that were really interesting. The amount of homework that was assigned was a lot. I had a lot of reading which was overwhelming at times since i was not used to it. I was taking 16 units every semester so i think that played a role into the amount of stress that i had during my first year. Along with a full load of classes I was also working part time at a pre-school in the mission district. I love my job. I began working with Jumpstart for young children during my freshman year. Here, we go into pre-schools twice a week and work with children to develop their literacy and print knowledge. I really enjoy working here because it allows me to take my mind off of school and focus on my kids. It makes me very happy to know that I am helping these kids prepare for kindergarten. I am currently still working with Jumpstart but I am now doing my service in a pre-school in the Hunters Point area. Although my job requires a lot of my time, I would not trade it for anything.
During my second semester of my Freshman year, I also had an internship with Associated Students Project Connect. Here, i worked with elementary and high school students to promote the idea of going to college. Although elementary and middle school might seem like a young age to start thinking about college, the idea of planting the seed of higher education was important. I really enjoyed working with Project connect because it allowed me to learn about different resources that were on campus. This helped me out a lot because i no longer felt lost in college. I now knew that there was help out there and that if I ever felt lost I could go to any of these resources for help. During my spring semester i took a class on Latino health care perspectives, this has been one of my favorite class that i have taken so far. it showed me a lot about the health problems that affect the Latino community and it really motivated me to do something that would allow me to help those who are going through these problems. The teacher that taught this class also ran a clinic in the mission district that was a partnership with UCSF and it served immigrants and those who did not have health care. his mission was to provide free basic health care services to those who could not afford them. I started attending the meetings and i was really interested in this project. i soon became a volunteer and before i knew it i got trained and i have been working in the clinic ever since as a pharmacy assistant and patient advocate. the work is very hard and time consuming but I know that at the end it pays off since I am helping those who are unable to get health care.
Overall my freshman year was very good. I learned that college is not like the movies and that it requires a lot of hard work and dedication. College allowed me to grow as a person and it helped me find out what i really wanted to do in my life. In the beginning I felt overwhelmed with the amount of work that I had but with time management I found that not only could I do all of this but I could also have fun with my friends and relax.
My second year of college is great! I decided that I want to become a social worker and I am currently taking classes for this major as well as working on my minor in counseling. I decided to pursue my career in Social Work because it was something that i found appealing and it had all of the components that I was looking for. My classes are going really good, I am taking 17 units and I have learned to manage my time fairly well which allows me to not feel as stressed out. I am still working with Jumpstart and the Clinic and have recently began an internship with the CEASE place which is a counseling program that deals with alcohol and substance abuse. I enjoy working here because it is something that I would like to do in the future as a career. Overall i feel comfortable where I am at right now and I am looking forward to my next year of college were i will begin to take all of my major classes and hopefully graduate within the next two years. College life is great, the people, the city life and the memories that will last you a lifetime are worth every single moment.
- Claudia, San Francisco State '13
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Looking Back: Second Year in College vs First Year in College
My name is Nyree and I graduated from John F. Kennedy High School in 2009. When I first left off for college I wasn't quite sure what to expect. I thought it might be tough but I was mostly excited to be going off on my own and getting started on my education. Back in high school I was sort of tired of seeing the same people for four years and I thought as soon as I got to college everything would change. I'd have a bunch of friends, life would be fun, and things would over all be great. I wasn't entirely wrong.
After starting my first semester I realized college wasn't so different from high school. The only real difference is that some classes (like in high school) can be more challenging than others, you have to be independent, meaning you must turn your work in on time, get to class on time, remember to look at your syllabus for assignments, and you have more freedom. I also realized that you don't instantly make friends in college. Just like high school, there are different people all around you and it's up to you to find people to interact with. Personally, it was difficult for me because I'm a shy person but it has taught me to push myself out of my comfort zone.
Academically, I learned to change my sense of time management and organization, which is one to the most important things you need in college. It's not too different from what you've been doing all of your life, but you have to get it down in a way that works for you in order to manage your classes and your personal life. For instance, in a week you may have to read 20 or more pages for a class discussion. Instead of reading all of the pages at once, I break all of the pages up over a few days so that I don't overwhelm myself. A few other things I do is buy a 5 subject notebook so that all of my class notes are always together, use a laptop to take notes in class where it's acceptable because it's easier and more time efficient to study from, and investing in technology. I own an Amazon Kindle not only for leisure, but because I can buy some of my textbooks cheaper and be able to download my notes to it and study on the go.
Now that I'm in my second year of college I feel more comfortable with myself, my capabilities, and the direction I'm headed. I know my campus pretty well, I know the best ways for me to study, I know where to go for help when I need it, and if I make a mistake I don't stress myself out over it. In school I've always been one of the brightest students in my class so I take any type of failure pretty harshly. Last semester I took a really challenging course and I failed it. At first I was really down about it because I tried so hard. However I realized my failure wasn't necessarily important. What was important was that after leaving that class at the end of the semester I learned a ton of things that I didn't know coming in. My mind was challenged in so many ways and I'm appreciative of the things I learned. I also learned that that class subject doesn't interest me the way I thought it did. That' s one of the beautiful things about college. This is the time to learn anything and everything and make mistakes so that you can learn and grow.
Most of things I know now about college I had to learn myself. It's not a bad thing but I do wish somebody would've painted me a more realistic picture of what it would be like. I would've liked to know exactly how financial aid works, what picking classes would be like, and hearing more about other's first time in college so I could get a better perspective. Through out school adults always tell you that when you get to college no one is going to hold your hand. That's true, but there are many people that are wiling to walk beside you. Professors and counselors want to see you succeed but it's up to you to reach out to them and do what needs to be done. That's another thing I wished I would've learned. That there are people that will help you.
My spring semester will be ending in about three months and for the summer I would like to do something I haven't done before. I would love to travel somewhere far or even close to home. I just want to see more than my usual surroundings. I also plan on taking a few classes at a community college for leisure and possibly doing community service. Last summer I relaxed the whole time. It was nice having a break but this summer I don't want to waste it. College is the only time in life you have so much freedom to change and learn, I plan on taking full advantage of it and creating lasting memories.
- Nyree, Sacramento State '13
After starting my first semester I realized college wasn't so different from high school. The only real difference is that some classes (like in high school) can be more challenging than others, you have to be independent, meaning you must turn your work in on time, get to class on time, remember to look at your syllabus for assignments, and you have more freedom. I also realized that you don't instantly make friends in college. Just like high school, there are different people all around you and it's up to you to find people to interact with. Personally, it was difficult for me because I'm a shy person but it has taught me to push myself out of my comfort zone.
Academically, I learned to change my sense of time management and organization, which is one to the most important things you need in college. It's not too different from what you've been doing all of your life, but you have to get it down in a way that works for you in order to manage your classes and your personal life. For instance, in a week you may have to read 20 or more pages for a class discussion. Instead of reading all of the pages at once, I break all of the pages up over a few days so that I don't overwhelm myself. A few other things I do is buy a 5 subject notebook so that all of my class notes are always together, use a laptop to take notes in class where it's acceptable because it's easier and more time efficient to study from, and investing in technology. I own an Amazon Kindle not only for leisure, but because I can buy some of my textbooks cheaper and be able to download my notes to it and study on the go.
Now that I'm in my second year of college I feel more comfortable with myself, my capabilities, and the direction I'm headed. I know my campus pretty well, I know the best ways for me to study, I know where to go for help when I need it, and if I make a mistake I don't stress myself out over it. In school I've always been one of the brightest students in my class so I take any type of failure pretty harshly. Last semester I took a really challenging course and I failed it. At first I was really down about it because I tried so hard. However I realized my failure wasn't necessarily important. What was important was that after leaving that class at the end of the semester I learned a ton of things that I didn't know coming in. My mind was challenged in so many ways and I'm appreciative of the things I learned. I also learned that that class subject doesn't interest me the way I thought it did. That' s one of the beautiful things about college. This is the time to learn anything and everything and make mistakes so that you can learn and grow.
Most of things I know now about college I had to learn myself. It's not a bad thing but I do wish somebody would've painted me a more realistic picture of what it would be like. I would've liked to know exactly how financial aid works, what picking classes would be like, and hearing more about other's first time in college so I could get a better perspective. Through out school adults always tell you that when you get to college no one is going to hold your hand. That's true, but there are many people that are wiling to walk beside you. Professors and counselors want to see you succeed but it's up to you to reach out to them and do what needs to be done. That's another thing I wished I would've learned. That there are people that will help you.
My spring semester will be ending in about three months and for the summer I would like to do something I haven't done before. I would love to travel somewhere far or even close to home. I just want to see more than my usual surroundings. I also plan on taking a few classes at a community college for leisure and possibly doing community service. Last summer I relaxed the whole time. It was nice having a break but this summer I don't want to waste it. College is the only time in life you have so much freedom to change and learn, I plan on taking full advantage of it and creating lasting memories.
- Nyree, Sacramento State '13
Monday, January 3, 2011
First Quarter at SCU
It's my first time doing this so I am sorry if it isn't great. I'm Jocelyn, a freshman at Santa Clara University and alumni from Richmond High School. First of all, when I was a senior, SCU was not one of my choices just because it was a Jesuit University. I had never heard of it until my counselor encouraged me to visit the school. After going for Open House, I fell in love with the green palm tree-filled campus, the nice people, and just about everything.
I am interested in the engineering field, and SCU was known for its great School of Engineering. I applied Early Action and knew I had been accepted before most of my classmates did. I was excited to start classes although I knew it was going to be a lot of work.
I started later than most since we are in quarter system. Surprisingly, I can't remember much about my first day of classes. I wasn't very nervous although I did not know anyone. All of my professors were very nice and everyone else seemed like they didn't know many people either. There was one class in specific where I did find a couple of friends I had met at orientation, which immediately made me feel a little more comfortable. The fact that all of my classes were in actual classrooms and not auditoriums made it seem more like high school. I had homework the first day and assignments due in a couple of days already.
Midterms scared me at first. Many made it seem like a HUGE deal, while others were laid back about it. I studied, but did not study the material that was actually in the midterm for 2 of my classes. I really struggled with Chemistry and Math. I knew I should have gotten a private tutor but I thought I would be able to do fine without one. At the end, I did pass all of my classes, but could have done so much better if I had requested a tutor from the start.
Finals scared me even more. Back in high school, our finals were not very intense and most of us did not take them very seriously. From what my friends have told me, their finals were pretty intense and already had experience with them before getting to college. But I guess finals shouldn't be a threat if you know the material. I spent a great amount of time studying without forgetting to sleep enough.
Dead week was for sure the most stressful. The mood around campus was just dead; second floor Sobrato (the building I live in) was not its regular filled with laughter and yelling. The best advice would be to not let stress get to you. It is hard, I had a couple of breakdowns, but there's always a way.
The building I live in is probably one of the best dorms Santa Clara University has. I live in a suite-style building, where each suite has four singles and one double. Sophomores live in singles and the two freshmen share the double. We have two bathrooms (we don't have to share a bathroom with a bunch of strangers :) and a common area with two couches, cabinets, a sink, and some furniture for a tv. It is a little more expensive than other buildings but it is worth it. I am the only Latina in my suite. At first, I wasn't very thrilled about this since I am more comfortable with other Latinos. But I learned that this was all part of the college experience. Now, I got a couple of very close friends, a bunch of new friends and I still have my boyfriend with me. I do not go out much since I am not very big on parties, but the couple of times I have gone out with have been pretty fun. It is always entertaining seeing people do crazy things in the middle of the night. Although it is a religious school, people here still party. I've only been here for a quarter, but I have seen more crazy things in these 10 weeks than in my entire life. Overall, I love college. I loved the experience so much I did not want to come back home for the holidays! But thank god I am back :)
- Jocelyn, SCU '14
I am interested in the engineering field, and SCU was known for its great School of Engineering. I applied Early Action and knew I had been accepted before most of my classmates did. I was excited to start classes although I knew it was going to be a lot of work.
I started later than most since we are in quarter system. Surprisingly, I can't remember much about my first day of classes. I wasn't very nervous although I did not know anyone. All of my professors were very nice and everyone else seemed like they didn't know many people either. There was one class in specific where I did find a couple of friends I had met at orientation, which immediately made me feel a little more comfortable. The fact that all of my classes were in actual classrooms and not auditoriums made it seem more like high school. I had homework the first day and assignments due in a couple of days already.
Midterms scared me at first. Many made it seem like a HUGE deal, while others were laid back about it. I studied, but did not study the material that was actually in the midterm for 2 of my classes. I really struggled with Chemistry and Math. I knew I should have gotten a private tutor but I thought I would be able to do fine without one. At the end, I did pass all of my classes, but could have done so much better if I had requested a tutor from the start.
Finals scared me even more. Back in high school, our finals were not very intense and most of us did not take them very seriously. From what my friends have told me, their finals were pretty intense and already had experience with them before getting to college. But I guess finals shouldn't be a threat if you know the material. I spent a great amount of time studying without forgetting to sleep enough.
Dead week was for sure the most stressful. The mood around campus was just dead; second floor Sobrato (the building I live in) was not its regular filled with laughter and yelling. The best advice would be to not let stress get to you. It is hard, I had a couple of breakdowns, but there's always a way.
The building I live in is probably one of the best dorms Santa Clara University has. I live in a suite-style building, where each suite has four singles and one double. Sophomores live in singles and the two freshmen share the double. We have two bathrooms (we don't have to share a bathroom with a bunch of strangers :) and a common area with two couches, cabinets, a sink, and some furniture for a tv. It is a little more expensive than other buildings but it is worth it. I am the only Latina in my suite. At first, I wasn't very thrilled about this since I am more comfortable with other Latinos. But I learned that this was all part of the college experience. Now, I got a couple of very close friends, a bunch of new friends and I still have my boyfriend with me. I do not go out much since I am not very big on parties, but the couple of times I have gone out with have been pretty fun. It is always entertaining seeing people do crazy things in the middle of the night. Although it is a religious school, people here still party. I've only been here for a quarter, but I have seen more crazy things in these 10 weeks than in my entire life. Overall, I love college. I loved the experience so much I did not want to come back home for the holidays! But thank god I am back :)
- Jocelyn, SCU '14
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