Kristen
In high school, I was strongly encouraged to take AP classes. I took many of them, and I felt as if the difficulty of high school had ruined that "high school" experience and regretted taking them. However, I see now that I am a college freshman that I was extremely well prepared for the level at which I was expected to study. As a nursing major, I am required to take difficult classes early on, and AP in high school was a really good stepping stone for that. However, as I did study a lot in high school, I wish I could have learned better time management, and how to better balance fun with work. This was something I quickly adjusted to in college, and I wish I had learned the skill sooner. I might have enjoyed high school a little bit more. Also, having known I would go into nursing, I wish I had familiarized myself with APA citation formatting in high school, and had been required to practice with it in a sociology or psychology class. College professors are very strict on this format, and I had to learn the hard way on my first few assignments.
Christina
I would try and beat it into myself to take my education seriously, every single day of classes, and to really focus on my work. As a high school senior, I didn't really think about college other than where I would end up going in the fall. My freshman year came and went; I look back on it and see that I could have put so much more effort into my studies. I would also tell myself to calm down about leaving home without my family and friends to help me. I'd reassure myself that new friends were waiting there for me and were just as nervous as I was. Another thing I would say to myself is to keep going even when your world seems to crumble. College, and life in general, is hard; It takes endurance, diligence, and faith to get through the tough times, but it is very possible. But most importantly, I would tell myself to have fun and broaden my horizons; I'd urge myself to meet as meet many new people and to mature into the person I was meant to be, enjoying every minute of it.
Kendra
It is not all about me. Do not forget the people that helped you get to the point you are now. Your parents are still going to be there for you and help you out if you need someone. They love you and are pulling for you to succeed. Just like parents are supporting you, good friends will be too. You can never have too many friends so make as many as you can, but also remember the previous friendships that you have made. Be open to make changes and stretch yourself. Be well-rounded. Attend things you would not normally attend, or get involved in organizations that interest you. Pursue your dreams, even if they seem extremely difficult. If your classes seem extremely hard, work extremely hard, and do your very best to pursue the major that you are most passionate about. Remember to love what you are involved in, and try to have fun in every activity. Get involved in things and meet people, but try not to overload your schedule because you will be stressed. Do not get wrapped up in things that will only bring you down. Stay focused on the finish line. Remember the goal.
Jonathan
I would have looked into more college opportunities and attempted to find a college opportunity which would allow me to stay out of significant debt throughout my college experience. Getting a good ACT score isn't enough, (I scored a 33), you also have to apply to the right college that will honor your high school achievments enough to offer you reasonable financial aid. My current choice of Cedarville has only limited opportunities for financial aid for academic purposes, but rather chooses to grant aid based on religious reasons such as church affiliation and missionary parents.
Crysta
If I could go back in time to give myself advice from what i know now i would tell myself many things. I would first tell myself that hey your sister is going to have a child not you so go to school shes ok by herself and doing so it wont be as hard to get yourself started in college and start your own life. I would tell myself to go striaght to college and not say oh ill wait a year a year turns in to two years and so on. Crysta you love learning so why put what you love on hold! For once in your life think about whats best for you and not others everyone will do fine with out your help. Just follow your heart and stay in school its what you love and it wont be harder in the long run and you wont keep putting it off for others. good luck.
Daniel
Do not go to Wilkes University for your first semester and go to Cedarville like you originally wanted to. Pharamcy is not the thing for you and you will be much happier at a Christian school doing something with computers like Information Systems.
Sarah
High school! Not just hish school no it is you senior year! It's the time to live it up and to enjoy your friends! Or at least that is what everyone says: easy classes and freedom to do whatever you want. However, my senior, contrary to what others said, was not at all like that. Studying was not only a regular rutine., but was all I did besides playing soccer in the fall. If I were to go back and give myself advice in high school I would probably tell myself to find a healthy balance between doing my homework and having a social life. Granite school is definately important, but from my college experience so far, you don't want to be the kind of person that only studies and never goes out with friends. Not only do you get discouraged or what not but it also doesn't make for a college experience. So mainly to helo myself prepare better for college I would tell myself to make sure to create a healthy balance of work and play, and to maybe go to the school basketball or football game once in awhile!
Autumn
Hindsight is insight. Several times, I have thought how my college experience would have been different - knowing what I now know. As a high school valedictorian, a "Type A" who only knew how to get A's, and a people pleaser, I entered college with high expectations for myself. I also carried the weight of my perceived expectations of others. These expectations created undue stress throughout my undergraduate career. Being a college cheerleader, I also felt the the pressure of people "looking at me" and trying to fit a certain stereotype of who I was supposed to be physically and socially.
I wish I could go back to 2000 and take the high school senior Autumn to the local coffee shop. Sitting in the oversized comfortable chairs and sipping hot cocoa, I would listen to her expectations and fears. Then I would gently say, "Lighten up! It is ok to not get an A. College is about growing academically but ALSO socially, emotionally, and spiritually. Take time to be with others and take time to be with yourself - no textbooks allowed. Most importantly, what you do does not make you valuable. You are valuable because of who you are! :)
Justin
Justin, you're a relatively smart guy who can handle the rigors of college. Get involved early and enjoy all Cedarville has to offer. Intermural soccer and football are a great way to make quick friends and build relationships while having fun. Lock into study groups, don't be afraid to ask questions, and always know you are among friends!
Josiah
Alexander Graham Bell was quoted, "Before anything else, preparation is the key to success." Throughout my highschool years studying has come very easy and not required alot of preparation. I could put many things off until the proverbial, "Last moment." However, if I could travel back in time to my senior year and change one thing, it would be to start applying to colleges mch earlier and really taking time to thoroughly check them out. There are a vast multitude of choices available to a student considering college, and you really do yourself a disservice by not spending the adequate time and research neccessary to find what is available to help you achieve your desired goal. The decisions you make at this point can be pivotal in shaping the outcome of your future. Preparation is truly one of the most important keys to help influence the chances of success in one of possibly the most important decisions of your life.