Q&A: Open University Alumni

The Open University program allowed Flores to enroll in CSUF courses which provided him with an opportunity to rebuild his GPS and find his way back into his academic journey.

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Did your experience through Open University change the way you approached school?

It sure did. I felt like I had an academic partner that never gave up on me. I remember receiving phone calls and emails following up at the beginning of the semester. I felt very comfortable being transparent with Suzanne when I was not able to take on more classes. No matter how many units I was taking Suzanne always returned phone calls.

What habits or strategies contributed most to your success after readmission?

I was not scared to ask questions. I have been more intentional with looking for resources whether it was booking quiet rooms at the library or spending time with my professors during their office hours.

Know how to manage your time. Especially for non-traditional students.

Be disciplined with keeping up with all your readings.

Having a good support system at home and with your friends.

Make friends with students that share the same major as you. That will be very helpful.

How was the transition into your degree program?

My transition was a little rough. I was enrolling with OPEN UNIVERSITY when we had to manually be added to classes.

I had to take some classes at SAC

I had to be on a budget because the units cost more at OPEN UNIV.

It felt like I was a second class student.

How did OU advisement, professors, or mentors contribute to your experience and goals as a student at CSUF?

Kept me on my toes.

I felt like I really had no excuses to come back to school, unless I willfully didn't want to of course.

The communication studies faculty was nothing short of AMAZING.

I felt like they are 100% devoted to helping students grow in the academic realm.

My professors and I developed a special bond, they were the light at the end of the tunnel.

What are some of your favorite memories at CSUF?

Graduation was epic. A day of mixed emotions for me. I had formed many bonds with class mates and faculty and now I must go on to the next chapter of my life.

Being inducted into Lamba Pi Eta. Official Honor Society for Communication Studies..

Winning Survivor in my HCOM 480 class.

Tell me about what you’re most proud of since studying at CSUF.

I am proud of myself. I am proud that I was finally able to earn my diploma even though I felt like quitting so many times. I am proud of my family and faculty that stood behind me and never doubted me.

What would you say to students who have experienced/are experiencing academic setbacks?

You have to be hungry

Know that this is a life changing event

Knowledge is the real power in life and nobody can ever take that away from you.

Believe me when I tell you that having a degree will help you have an edge when trying looking for a job or trying to get promoted. I have also experienced a set back when not being able to get a favorable position due to not having a degree in

What are your next steps after graduation?

My family and I finally made a decision and I will be attending USC this fall. I will be joining the cohort for the Master of Education in Educational Counseling.