Angela
If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself not to stress out as much about the little things, and worry more about doing my best on my homework and finding scholarships. I also would tell myself to spend more time developing my gifts and talents. Practice piano more, write more short stories, or find some ways to expand my knowledge of sign language (the degree I'm pursuing now).
Elise
I would tell myself to take it easy and not rush into things. Focus on you studies when you get to college don't let the whirlwind of college life sweep you. Also have fun try and make an equal balance of you studies and hanging out with friends, don't just be a bookworm or don't be a socail butterfly really try and balance it all out. IT IS WORTH IT!!!
Neil
Who doesn't wish they could go back in time? Everyone wishes they could change or prevent something from happening , or simply prevent heartache or stress. Although it would be nice to go back in time, all I would need is to go back in time and reason with myself. This is what I would say.
"Congradulation on getting accepted! You're about ready to move on to the next step. You have a lot of potential, and these next years will profoundly impact who you will become. Thats not to say that you need to feel an inordinate amount of pressure in beginning college, but you need to understand that you will begin developing exponentially in the near future!"
"You will always have something to learn. Please, do not assume that there is any one person that cannot teach you something! Devope a passion for learning and get excited about any oppertunity that comes your way. Life is full of adventure, and that adventure comes to us when we grab on to oppertunities! What makes you excited? Do it! Begin by focusing on the intermediate parts of your goals, and the big picture will soon be yours. Good Luck!"
Garrett
Dear Me,
Next year you will be starting your journey as a college student. One thing I want you to never forget is the importance of relationships. While at college, you will make lifelong friends. But those friends don't magically fall into your lap. You must work at getting to know others. You must go beyond surface level. You must go deeper in your friendships. Sure, it may be scary or uncomfortable at times, but when you truly grasp the importance of close relationships, your life will never be the same. Don't be afraid to go out of your comfort zone to meet new people. And don't be afraid to be open and honest with them. Too many times we think being vulnerable is a bad thing. But you will never understand the importance of compassion and intimate friendships until you are willing to be vulnerable with those whom you trust. College is partly about going to class and earning a degree. But grades, honors, and accomplishments only last for a short time; relationships last a lifetime.
Have no fear.
Sincerely,
Me
Katie
I advise parents and students to work together to make the best college decision for the student. Take everything into consideration when choosing the right campus for you. Be sure to look at class sizes, academic quality, social activities, food quality, and cost. Be sure during your freshman year to be really involved in campus activities. Make friends that will last forever. Feel free to ask questions to upperclassman who are willing to help. Do not be scared to start a new chapter in your life.
maggie
you really should visit each college your considering.spend the night with a student who is living on campus,it helps you get a feel for dorm life.go to a class,it'll help you see how the professors are and give you a better feel for what other classes will be like.make the most of your visit at the college.you'll just know its the right choice. when your accepted and you finally move on campus,make sure you and your roomie get along.spend time with her/him.it'll help the rooming situation.make sure you make a small group of amazing friends.ones you know will make you study when you need to,but yet know when you need to have fun,and ones that will be there when your first relationship doesnt work.pick a professor you can confide in.one who will encourage you and help you succeed.make sure you follow the rules,some consequences arent fun,and some people will think that of you forever.last but not least,make the most out of it,it goes fast.so live it up!
Katrina
When looking for the right school one must take into account the fact that he or she will be there for a while, whether two or four years. It is important to figure out what you want out of this experience. Would you desire and easy fun time to party and socialize, or a place to study hard and head toward a career. Do you want to study abroad or have other valuable cultural experiences? Are you more likely to succeed in a large class or in a small class where you can get personalized attention. And also, what are your ideas for time apart from your studies, such as sports, events, extra-curricular and working. My advice, uwhether parent or student, is to sit down and look at each issue seriously and thuroughly. Choosing a major and area to study is no doubt important, but college is so much more than just learning. I is a living for the first few years of your adult life, and it will shape the rest of you life.
Nicole
Schedule visitation dates to all the colleges you are looking at. Seriously, it makes the world of difference to experience each college option and get a "feel" for the student life, chapel, professors, and activities. When I visited Bethel, I somehow knew that was the college for me, and I would be dissatisfied if I pursued any other college. To the parents, money will have a strong weight on the decision, but I can attest to the fact that some colleges that are priced higher are worth it, especially for the quality of the education, students, and lifestyle. I would hate to attend a cheap college that did not challenge me in my classes or that made me hesitant to go to school everyday because the people were unfriendly or unhelpful. I am glad to be attending a college that will teach me through vigorous classes, show me how to perform my future job in a way that honors the Lord, and that will allow me to enjoy my four years at this college. Sometimes you will get what you pay for, so that should not be that pressing of an issue, unless in desperate situations. I love my college!
Heather
I would advise anyone who is looking for a college to attend to look for a school that is both comfortable and challenging. Look for somewhere that won't make you feel like you're completely lost and unsure, but make sure it isn't too easy for you either. The best way to grow and change for the better is to have to work for things from time to time; which is really what college is all about anyway. Look for a place that has a strong academic background and a bright future. It is important that your prospective school provides the area of study that interests you and will allow you room and opportunity for a change of mind.
To parents it is important for you to feel safe sending your child to this school since the safety of one's children is the highest on the level of importance to a parent. Also, you should feel confident in the academics and the faculty. Find out if there is a way for you to be active in your child's education, and take advantage of that at every turn while still allowing your child the growth necessary.
Breanna
I would tell parents and students to visit the colleges of their choice, investigate their programs, find out about financial aid and see if the college is a good fit for you. Bethel was just right for me as I liked the small class sizes, campus, and everything they had to offer.