answer:When I was in high school, my stress for choosing a university to attend or adjusting to “college life” was significantly reduced because of my older brother. He was a senior at our university when I was an in-coming freshmen. I felt pretty good about my ability to choose courses, navigate the campus, juggle the workload, etc. It helped knowing someone close to me who had gone through the experience already. The government-funded universities in California are split between University of California (U.C.) and California State (or Cal State). I attend a Cal State – our campus is smaller in terms of enrolled students, our lectures are far smaller (we’re talking hundreds compared to 50 students max – the majority of my classes do not exceed 35 students and a few have been as small as fifteen.) They also differ in operation – U.C. schools have a professor-led lecture and then a T.A. led discussion. At my university, we have professor-only courses (though there are differences between how professors teach – some lecture, some lead group discussions, some employ a blend.) It also makes a difference that I attend what is known as a “Commuter School”. We do have on-campus dorms, and the school really pushes for us to live on campus, but the majority of us drive or take public transportation. This makes the “social” aspect of university life somewhat different. Most students go to school and then go home. There are clubs, organizations, and parties aplenty… but for the most part, we are an academic-focused school. I have had an incredibly positive experience. My financial issues have been taken care of by the government. My professors are knowledgeable, affable, and genuinely want to help their students. The majority of administrators (office workers and deans alike) focus on helping the students and not getting money in their pockets. They will work with us to ensure we are on track to graduate. I have gone through waves of depression and anxiety, but for those part I have been content. It has never become too difficult for me to handle. But I am an insatiable student who has nursed a thirst to learn for as long as they have lived. Others I know, especially those outside my major, have not had as easy an academic career. I think it is understandable to stumble and know when and how to seek help. I could probably go on forever.. if you have any pointed questions, I will do my best to answer them :)