A Day in the Life of Adrianna, an applied sociology student from Byers, Texas

1. What is a typical day for you on campus?

Usually, I attend two or three classes in the morning. I have plenty of free time but I have chosen to use it studying. From day one, every teacher would tell me, "the harder you study in the beginning, the better the student you are in the end." Having followed their advice, I don't have to work as hard now that I'm a senior. As for extracurricular activities, there is no time for me to spare, especially regarding intramural sports with scheduled game days.

2. What do you do for fun? Do you stay at school and get involved with the recreational activities available on campus or go home over the weekend?

You absolutely cannot experience college if you go home every weekend, which is why I stay at school. On the weekends, most social activities take place. You miss out on a lot if you choose not to participate. I enjoy spending most of my free time with my friends, since I live six hours away from home. They are my family stand-ins.

3. What's the biggest difference between life in high school and life in college?

College is more of a melting pot of different kinds of people. There is more than one way of thinking and you are exposed to a lot of opinions. I learned to be open-minded when I moved to college. Everyone has a voice and it is better for you to listen than to force someone to listen to you. I also learned how to define myself as an individual. I matured on my own and learned to make my own choices without supervision. Plus, I learned to deal with the consequences.

4. What's the easiest way to meet people and make friends?

I suggest living in the dorms for two or three years. I enjoyed having people around me all day.

5. How did you decide on a major?

I took several different classes that were not basics, but interested me at the time. Plus, I changed my major a few times till I found my niche.

6. What were the most helpful classes you took in high school to prepare you for college?

Science, math, computer/keyboarding, and literature courses were very helpful

7. Is there enough help available if you have trouble with a class?

Each college has its own tutoring programs. At Southwest Texas, the professors were always available during office hours or by appointments. I strongly recommend going to the teacher or teacher's assistant. I found that alternative assistance can be helpful, but sometimes it differs from specific instructions of certain teachers.

8. How did you choose a college or university?

I always wanted to move to a big city but didn't think I would take such a big change from a small town setting. Going to Southwest Texas was a small adjustment and I have Austin and San Antonio close by if I want to go visit a big city.

9. Do you live on campus or off campus? What advantages or disadvantages are there to living on or off campus?

I live off campus now. Living on campus, you are among friends and are able to wake up five minutes before class and still get there on time. It is convenient also because there are plenty of resources that you're paying for anyway that are just a short walk away. Living off campus, you have your own kitchen, bathroom, and if you can afford it, your own bedroom.

10. If you could go through high school again, what would you do differently?

I would have designed better study habits.

11. Do you consider your college lifestyle to be balanced and healthy?

Yes, mainly because I have other people helping me or giving me advice when I need some. If I look tired or grumpy they tell me to get more sleep. And they invite me to go work out with them. As for nutrition, well, the cafeteria has planned nutritious meals. It's just a matter of getting the proper portions.

Date: 2016-01-05; view: 611