The University of San Francisco at a Quick Glance

By Anna Chen
Pendulum Staff Writer

        On October 26, 2001, a group of AVID students attended a field trip to University of San Francisco. Many students felt relieved to be away from the usual school schedule.

        AVID teacher Ms. Pringle and AVID coordinator Kathy Kornblith shaperoned the trip.  The Jesuit University of San Francisco originally came from a Jesuit Catholic tradition. This remarkable university focuses on helping students develop as learners. The majors for USF include arts and sciences, nursing, law, and business. Classes contain only about 17 students or even less. Students might consider the advantage of smaller class sizes.

        The speakers from USF were generous enough to give their  time for Galileo students. The two main speakers included Nina Paterson and Suzette DeGrange. Paterson is the director of the Multicultural program. Multiculturalism enables people of diverse backgrounds to have better recognition and communication with each other.  Degrange holds her title as the Senior Associate Director.  Degrange explained some of the processes of the admission office.

        It is important for students to keep their grades up. However, it would not damage a student’s future if one received a couple of B’s. USF requires incoming freshmen to have accomplished the following requirements: 4 years of English (better if it is honor or accelerated English), 4 years of Math (which includes Algebra 2, trigonometry, pre-calculus, etc.), 2 or 3 years of modern language (stay with the same language), and 1 year of world history (American economics).

        It is true that some colleges do not require ninth grade transcripts. However, USF expects students to do well throughout their four years of high school. Private colleges need every possible way to eliminate applicants since admission is so competitive. High SAT scores can support the enrollment because colleges  recognize and recruit students who attain high scores. Many teachers remind their students that the SATs do not reflect to how smart students are, but how well they take tests.

        One speaker, Janet, said, “Dream the impossible dreams.” Currently, she is a senior who came from Hawaii. Her reason for attending USF was to educate herself as well as develop her spirituality. Janet reminded students to search for help early before it’s too late. She says, “Always try to set goals for yourself.”

        Another speaker recommended,  “Apply for financial aid.” Anna traveled from San Diego to go to USF. She has spent three years in USF so far.  A lot of distractions will occur and it is up to oneself to set limits, so don’t slack off or it will catch up!

        Carlos never even thought about college when he was in ninth grade. His original dream was to join the Army. Now he’s traveling to gain more knowledge from different ethnicities. As a junior in USF, he realized more about life experiences. Back in Texas, his brothers and sisters interrupted him a lot when he studied, so he was happy to arrive at college. Although he misses his family very much, Carlos learned to survive on his own. His advises, “College will allow you to find who you are. Good luck!.”

        Roberto chose not to attend college. Instead of attending college, he worked. Then he realized that work was even more difficult than college. It’s more fun to be in college instead of exhausting himself all day.  He didn’t managed his time wisely and blew off one of his exams. Colleges will provide a lot of freedom. Roberto said, ”Don’t let opportunities go by. Don’t sell yourself short. Live on campus!”

        Marlene is  a senior, working on her major. Marlene felt that there were so many others who resembled herself. She had the same problem with managing her time. What a hassle to spend your break studying? Students should always try to support their peers who need more help. Marlene agreed with Carlos and said, “Don’t let opportunities pass by and meet as many new people as possible.”