Makayla M
San Jose State University
B.A. in Public Health
What has been the biggest overall lesson that going to college has taught you?
That it takes hard work and you have to keep going no matter how hard it is.
What did you learn about yourself?
I learned that i am different from people my age. I do not like to go to parties as much but THAT IS OK. That doesn't mean I wont have a great college experience because it was an experience .
Rate your experience
at college:
2020 & 2021 were extremely challenging under the confinement and constant menace of the Covid-19 pandemic. Hopefully there were some silver lining and lessons learned.
Tell us about the highlights or accomplishments of this academic year 2020/21, in spite of all!
I learned to be appreciative of life. I learned to really take advantage of the opportunities and people around you because things can change really fast. I learned that learning never stops even when you graduate.
Thinking of the whole 4 years, what were the greatest challenges you faced? How did you overcome them?
I faced financial issues the most. I pretty much took care of my finances throughout college. I got started early with applying for scholarships but I also worked 3 jobs in college while in school to decrease the amount of loans. I also faced loneliness because I was not with my family so that took a toll on me but just always thinking of the bigger picture of graduating really helped me stay motivated because I am a first generation college student.
What were your proudest accomplishments or highlights from attending college?
I met great people. I was able to play a sport and learn more about sports. I was able to learn more about the health of a community and I now have the skills to help.
If you could go back in time 4 years ago, what would you tell your 18 year old self? If you could do-over, what would you do differently?
I would tell my 18 year old self to be grateful for every moment. Do not always rush to the next goal after achieving something. I would tell myself to enjoy the moments I am currently in and just enjoy life.
What advice would you give to an incoming freshman?
I would tell an incoming freshman to be themself and enjoy it! Because it truly goes fast.
Now that you have graduated, have you formulated any new short term / long term goals?
Yes. My short term and long term goals include being more in the moment. I would like to focus on my self care because in college I didn't have a chance to really do that. I want to find hobbies that will make me feel good and find what I am passionate in and spend more time with family.
How did being a Bella Scholar contribute to the success of achieving your goals?
It helped me financially but I enjoyed having people keep me accountable and make sure I am on track to graduation.