Advice from Freshmen

by Marcus D Gonzales

How is it different than what you expected?
The transition to college was definitely not as challenging as I had expected. I made friends right off the bat. I really believed this helped alleviate the stress that comes with starting fresh somewhere new—especially five hours away from home with people whom you have never met before. I also never expected to have so much free time. It is important to keep yourself occupied. Since I am in the UMSI program, I picked up a volunteer shift at University Medical Center in the Emergency Center, and I became heavily involved in our Tech Terry Scholars organization.

What do you wish someone would have told you?
I wish that someone would have told me that studying is of the utmost importance in college. In high school, I never really had to try. Even in my AP classes, I could get away with studying for a test the night before, or even hours before the test, and still get my A. However, in college, I have had to make adjustments to my studying habits, or lack thereof. I try to study a little each night, even if I do not have a test coming up. I have learned that cramming just is not the way to go about things anymore.

How are the classes/professors different than high school/community college?
If you are in the Honors College, you will get to enjoy smaller classes, kind of what you’re used to from high school, and get to know your professors so much better. Personally, I thrive in that sort of environment, as opposed to the huge lecture hall classes. You make friends, which are helpful if you need notes, someone to study with, or tutoring. Also, getting to know your professors has its perks. If you need a little extra time to get something done, extra tutoring, or any sort of help, honors professors tend to be more willing to be of assistance and be more understanding. Try to avoid lecture hall/auditorium classes, as you will be just one of about two-hundred and fifty. You are at a tier-one university now, so you know what you are getting yourself into. These classes are not easy, but you are more than able to succeed, so long as you have the right mindset and take care of business.
 
Where/How do you study?
I prefer to study in my room. I close my door, turn the TV onto the news (I know, that’s kinda nerdy), turn on some country music, and get to work. I try to avoid cramming, and instead review material from that day’s class. Also, it is never a bad idea to work ahead if you have a firm grasp on the material that you are currently covering.

What do love most about college/Texas Tech?
I love everything about Texas Tech. The campus is absolutely beautiful—it was once described as “the most beautiful college campus this side of the Mississippi”. Not to mention, we’re kind of a big deal—we are now Tier One university, have some of the top business, engineering, and medical schools in the nation, and some of the best sport teams.
What are you looking forward to during college/after graduation?
I am looking forward to attending Medical School. I have always had a passion for helping others and I plan on using medicine as my way of doing that.