Admissions

Be prepared. This is college now, if your not used to lots of people be ready for some culture shock. But remember everyone else is going through the same thing you are.
College is fast paced. There is going to be more work, harder tests, lots of reading, and many new concepts thrown at you even in the first few weeks of school. Remember to try to enter with an open mind and that your professors are always there to help you.
Don't be scared and have some fun. While college can be scary at first, coming in with an open mind will really help you make the transition. Sometimes college can seem overwhelming in those first few days or weeks but you will get through it with support from friends, family, and professors. Do not forget to lean on the people who can help you, no one can go at it alone.

Choose the best meal plan that fits you and your lifestyle, you don't want to be wasting money on meals you aren't using.
Definitely look into scholarships, it's worth a shot and it's free money. What more could you ask for?
Consider what type of living arrangement you want. Cal offers many types, some are more expensive than others. Don't try to live above your means or what you are comfortable with.

For prospective students I would say treat your Cal card like gold, never lose it because it's how you get into your dorms, it has your meal plan, helps rent books and allows access to events on campus. I would also say, learn where the buildings are and explore the campus. A must is to make time to make friends that way even in a small town, you will never be bored. Take advantage of opportunities on campus, such as leader for life programs, the different clubs, find where you belong and build off of your interests.

Take a tour of the campus first, I would say that Cal is a small campus in a rural area, and that may not be right for everyone. Talk to people who attend or have attended, ask them questions. If you come here, take the Covey class! It's called the seven habits of highly effective people, and it can be a mind altering class, if you let it be. It's free to everyone, as all the people who teach it are volunteers, so it is a great experience.

My number one tip for prospective students is to take advantage of all the oppurtunities available at California University including clubs/organizations, honor socieities, student art exhibitions, and athletics.

It is a small school, but not too small. There isn't much near the campus, but most malls and other fun stuff are approximately 30 minutes way including the city of Pittsburgh.

A tip for any prospective student would be to know what you want to do before you attend here, because if you do not know, then it makes it more difficult to decide.

be sure to go on a visit, i visited several times before going and talk with the academic counselling staff when you do. also if your looking for work, apply for work-study as soon as you get there. p.s get involved!

Like any college, be prepared to spend money. Nothing is cheap even down to food. Sign up for as many clubs and organizations as you can, as long as you have the time and the commitment. There isn't anything near by in terms of recreation so also be prepared to be either driving or relying on the FREE public transportation provided.