Kelli
Even though transitioning to college seems daunting, it is important to take it seriously. Always apply to more than one college, even if you don't think you want to go there at first. Giving yourself options is the best thing. Always look for as much financial aid as possible, since fees tend to go up every year, and books tend to cost more than five hundred dollars. Find a place where you think you could be happy. Transferring colleges is tough work, and you tend to lose the aid you may have won at the original school. If you ever feel frustrated, just remember that taking the generals will give you time to relax. If things ever seem tough, just think about the fact that a college education will get you farther in life. If you believe in yourself, you will succeed.
Hannah
There are so many things I would tell myself as a senior. I would tell myself the usual stuff, procrastinate less, apply for more scholarships and double check my paperwork and applications. More importantly I would tell myself to find a way to make it to the on campus orientation. It's so important to know people when making the transition to college, and I didn't know anyone here when I made it. I would also tell my senior-self that I need to make more time to stay in touch with my friends from home because during that transition is when I'm going to need them most. I think the most important thing I would tell myself though is that I have to make a stand and fight for myself, because most of the time, nobody else will.
Kyle
I would tell my self that college is more important then a high school deploma.
Lisa
Go to a four year university out of high school, don't take time off and don't go to community college.
Brighton
"You know, Brighton, life doesn't wait for you. The pace picks up and before you know it, you'll be in the race of a lifetime; don't procrastinate! Remember that girl you liked in high school; you know the one with kind eyes and gentle words? The one you didn't get up the nerve to ask to prom? She was killed last month while driving her brother to band practice--didn't see the car turning in front of her. You only get one chance, Brighton! One chance to live and one chance to succeed. One chance to do your best and make your life something to be proud of. Don't wait or put off your desires. Proceed with caution, but don't be so careful that you forget to live...or love. Find the balance of wants and needs to your expectations of the future! Dream big, yet don't get so caught up in your dreams that you forget to put your pencil to the paper and make things happen. You can do it: don't ever forget that success is an attitude. Chase your dreams with all that you have. Good Luck."
Alan
Coming out of high school, I didn't really know what to expect. I had always been told that college was harder than high school, and that you must be motivated to do well. However, this did not shy me away. I had already obtained great study habits throughout high school, and was very successful in every class I attended. I knew for sure I was prepared for college.
I enrolled at Boise State in the fall of 2008, and it was not two weeks later that I realized college was demanding. I was taking 17 credits, none of which were easy classes. By the end of the second week, I felt as though my hand was going to fall off. I had taken so many notes, but couldn't tell one course from another. My brain could not keep up the fast pace in class, and I struggled to keep up with the pace.
This was definitely a complete reality check for myself, and I wish I would have been more prepared. So my biggest advice would be to learn to take adequate, organized notes, and make sure to set time aside for every class to complete my work!
Tristan
Well I think if I could go back and tell myself about the future I might just pass along the powerball numbers. But in all seriousness I know I would tell myself too work harder at everything and get involved in more afterschool activties, so that I would quailify for more scholorships or grants too help me pay for school. I would also make myself start saving more money maybe get another after school job too help with that. Definitly choose a better school to go to, but that ties into the working harder part. I also wouldn't allow myself too slack off as much as I did, cause that is one of my biggest regrets is that in highschool I always took the easy way out, and now I am paying for it in colledge.
Danielle
As a high school senior the idea of college is exciting and nerve racking at the same time. Being prepared is a key element to making the transition from high school to college. Make sure to have SAT and ACT tests taken early and begin searching for a major that is compatible to your likes and interests. Choosing a major before your freshman year is helpful, but not necessary. that is the beauty of college, you can change it as your interests change. As for college life, peer pressure increases to a maximum. Focusing on your classes and choosing friends that have the same morals and values as yourself is extremely important. Remember, you are not paying large quantities of money to party, it is for your education and a chance to be successful in a career that you love. However, a balance between fun and studying must still exist. Finally, make sure to figure out a way to study abroad. The time to travel and see the world dwindles at an astonishing rate, make time fot it because it will be the experience of a lifetime!
Sean
You may have great friends now, but you will be traveling over 15 hours to go to college. Since you won't know anyone on arrival, get involved as soon as possible. Remember, you can meet new people in any organization you join, but consider a few options: can you see these people as long term friends and will this club take away too much time school. My advice, join Blue Thunder Marching Band and a residential college reflecting your major. You love music, why not keep your hobbies alive after high school and participate in a band that will give you a scholarship even if you aren't a music major. Plus, joining a residential college will allow you to study and bond with students of the same area of study. These people will be reading similar books and working on similar homework all through school, increasing the chance of you developing long term friendships with them. In addition, everyone loves to get along with the people they're living with. Can't you see these people as those types? If this doesn't work out, remember that there are over 200 organizations on campus. Just get involved!
Melissa
Remember your focus. Live on campus the first year or two so that you don't have to worry about paying bills. In time you'll be an adult with bills and responsibilities. Enjoy the full college experience but don't have so much fun you forget why you're there. If you need help ask for it. There is a large support system that wants to see you succeed.