Cisco College Top Questions

In high school, I was considered a wallflower. I was quiet, studious and above all else, I considered myself a loser. I had very few friends and spent more time with my books than I spent with other people. I was an out cast, I didn't fit in, anywhere. But things are different now, and I would tell myself that "things change and they get better. You have more freedom to create yourself and be yourself and you will find people who will look at you like you're magic, like you are the weirdest most wonderful person they've every met. Just because things aren't great now, doesn't mean they won't be later on down the road. Most of all, learn to love yourself and be comfortable with who you are because once you do, those ar the beginnings of the best days of your life."

If I could go back and talk to my high school senior self I would say that getting a job and trying to pay for your school is not as important as making the grade for the classes you're taking. Also, you should try to take some college credit courses in order to speed up the process in getting an associates. After knocking out your associates it would be wise to continue your education to a bachelors degree and you should live on campus to experience life away from your parents and to grow as a person, but do not ever miss a class or you will fall so far behind and regret it later on in the semester. Only work when you absolutely have to and that is definitely during the summertime. Apply for all the grants and scholarships that you can in order to not spend out of pocket money on school. Last, but not least, know what you want to get your degree in and never lose sight of where you want to go with that degree. The littlest ounce of hope will go a long way. Don't forget to study in your free time.

If I could go back and and give my high school self advice it would definitely be to not give up on college. Even though your parents were not able to help you out, there are other options out there. Please submit your FAFSA and when it doesn't pay for all of your classes, request a loan package from the school. It may seem easier and more convenient to put off school, especially after getting your first full time position a month after graduating, but it will only cause you strife in your life. Today, I am 32 years old and not even half way to completing my Bachelor degree. I work full time, am married, we watch our nephew several days a week and take at least nine credit hours a semester. This does not leave much time for studying, so you will find yourself up at all hours and home on weekends when you could be spending time with family and friends. Please, take care of yourself before trying to take care of everyone else.

Take a breath, Mary. Life is too short to worry about all the little things. You just need to have faith in yourself when everything gets going and never look back. You shouldn't be as stressed as you are, or as concerned with craming at two o'clock for a test. Relaxing and breathing will be your best moments, cherish them. Don't completely forget who you are in your attempt for success. I am not saying don't try or to stop giving one hundred and ten percent in everything you do, just dont be so hard on yourself when it doesnt go your way. Why do we fall? So we can learn how to pick ourselves back up. Never stay down, you are a fighter. Your friends and family are there for you, no matter how hard it seems, everything will work out. Look how far you have come so far and at all the things you have done to get to where you are. College is just the next step in your goal. Rely and be confident in yourself - You can do it!

If I had the chance to travel back in time and give my self some pointers to make the transition less difficult there are three major things I would definitely advise. My First point brings me to having some cash saved up. Now that I'm in college I realize how hectic the schedule is and there will be things I want but currently can't afford. Not saying that I would only spend money that I would theoretically have on important items only but that it would be spent on myself whether it's for pleasure or need. Secondly, I would advise myself to start the scholarship searching process way in advance so I have time to write quality material for essays and get the most aid I can out of potential sources. Finally, I would try to train myself for the immense amount of studying I would have. My past semester could have went much better for me had I done what I would advise myself to do...but it's no time to be looking back at the past now when we have to prepare for tomorrow!

Honestly, I would of done alot better in High School and I wouldn't try to take the easy way out.

I would tell myselft to get a study habit, and to actually go to class. Get your butt up in the morning and actually pay attention in class. I would definatly tell myself that my senior year is probably the most important years, and not a blow off year like everyone see it as.

What are your dreams? Your choice in college needs to get you there. Don't waste your time or relationships by setting your priorities wrong. Assess what is most important to you and set a plan of what is going to get you there. People may not support you completely but you are capable no matter what. Do not be discouraged by learning from your mistakes. Stay goal-oriented. All your finances will come together if you are working towards your dreams, so do not let that limit you. You are smart enough to go anywhere and do anything but make sure what you are doing, is what you love. I know school is not exciting to you but it is worth the work. You are going to change a lot in these next few years so do not become impatient with yourself. Remember who you are at your very foundation and that will not be shaken. Stay courageous and never stop dreaming!