Admissions

Use office hours, study groups, learning communities, and learning center hours to your advantage. There are tons of resources at your disposal when you are a student at UC. Apply early -- even if you're not sure, because applying before December guarantees you a $2000/year scholarship. Go on a campus visit, but also wonder around campus on your own (during the school day) and try to drop in a couple classes (discreetly of course).

Be forward. Make friends join an learning community where you will be placed with other people with the same schedule as you.

Form groups to study with. My grades went up when I studied with other people. Because it means I get to teach them which ends up as practice for me and they can help me if I don't get something or I'm on the wrong track.

If you are on a science based major (engineering for example) take some AP and get them out of the way. the transition from highschool to a tough college will most likely rattle a new student. The first few quarters will be lighter if you take AP.

If you aren't sure where to go, take some classes and find out what you want to do. Even if it seems like junk classes and a waste of 10,000 (with books ect.) you can build your GPA, get Grants, get scholarships, and then get into a College you want to be in for sure. So 10,000 will probably turn into 3,000 if you do well.

There is so much to do that will enrich your experience here, so make sure to look at all of the student organizations to see what UC has to offer you. Also, be sure to take a campus tour and talk to current students! Research the possible majors, and consider their great medical facility if you are interested in a health care career.

Don't second guess yourself on what you want or what you want to pursue in college. I have many friends who change their major because they went into their second choice major instead of taking the initial risk with what they truly loved. To those with undecided majors, UC also has a wonderful exploratory program to give you a taste of everything, thereby helping you find your passions and potential career.

highly consider uc! it is a little bit more expensive than schools in the surrounding area, but it is worth the money. they have great facilities, education, resources, and connection for internships and careers.

When I was a freshmen, I learned several tips along the way. First, don't get intimated by the huge campus, it may seem scary now, but after a week or so, you'll be able to find all your classes with ease. Don't be shy and afraid of joining clubs and organizations. Explore! You never know what will interest you and keep you motivated in school unless you look at what this amazing university offers. One of my favorite places to be is the Recreational Center which I use to work out and escape the daily stresses of life. In addition, I absolutely love the different architectures of each building. It could vary from modern and contemporary, to historical and classical. Overall, this university is amazing and I love what is has to offer!

Apply for scholarships around the fall of senior year. This is the easiest way to get aid.
Join a few clubs, and make friends.
Live on campus. There is a lot to do and it's easier to make friends.
Take a couple of non-required classes for fun (especially Human Sexuality! It gets over 300 students each class because it's so fun and popular).

Do not be dumb off campus. The area can be a little intemidating, but as long as long as you pay attention and be careful you can go anywhere in the city without a problem.

I would say to get involved with the campus. You can always cut back after the first semester if you don't feel like you have enough time for everything, but you might as well see what you enjoy doing. Don't be afraid to go out and talk to people. Put yourself into social situations, and join a learning community. It might sound cheesy, but it really dose help you become more welcome in the society of the campus.