Alice
College is a time to be selfish. It sounds horrible when put in such a context but it is true. It will be the first time you get to choose where to go and do whatever you desire with that time. The money will figure itself out in the future, and for now it should not be your number one worry, your number one worry should be to find a place you will thrive, achieve your goals, be happy, and make memories you will remember for the rest of your life. Do not need to fret about this decision day and night and worry you might make the wrong decision, because you can always change your mind. Apply to schools you may not see yourself attending but then visit it, you may surprise yourself and fall in love with a school you never expected. Last but not least, enjoy every second of your senior year throughout this process. It may not seem like it, but one day during your freshman year of college, you will miss the simplicity of this time and wish for it back. Don’t solely focus on your future; remember to live in the present.
Jeffrey
My advice would be not to rush for graduation. I would tell myself to concetrate more on mathematics. I would also tell myself to move away from home and find some place more academically friendly. I would also to advice myself to prepare my physical attributes as well my mind.
Tyler
There are many things to look forward to and by telling you what they are might ruin them. However, go into college with a plan and be willing to change that plan at any point. Time flies, and when you see the right opportunity, don't waste time in taking it. Also, come out of your shell. There will be hundreds of people that you meet and will never see again, therefore be brave, friendly, and be yourself. Don't worry about having to impress people. I have found that the most important people in your life are family, loved ones, and the friends that will be your friends no matter how flattering you seem. No matter what happens, go to church right off the bat so that seniors will reach out to you. Even though you want to only live the classic college life, church will keep you on the path you want to be on. Finally, free time will become a thing of the past. Start looking at everything Colorado State University has to offer, ahead of time, so that you know that you are not missing out on any of the hidden resources, sports, or secrets.
sierra
The transition from high school to college is huge. We think we are prepared however it is a change larger than you will expect, while exciting it is scary too. Living with someone who is not your family is a big change, find ways to make it work out compromise is something you must learn in order to make it work, as well as letting things roll off your back. You will have more free time than you have in high school use it wisely. It is lonely your first semester while trying to make new friends and figure things out but do not despair it does get better. Anything new will take time to adjust but stick with it you will find your niche and start to really enjoy the experience college life and the independence brings. When youn go into your second semester things will start to even out and you will really start to fit in and find who you are, you begin to mature and if you are smart you will take full advantage of the opportunity being able to attend college offers. Stay away from the drugs an alcohol there is a lot of it.
Andrea
Before entering college really think about what you'd like to do for the rest of your life. For example, if you thing you'd like to work with animals try volunteering at a veterinary clinic or at an animal shelter. If you think you'd like to be a doctor ask your physician some questions about the lifestyle and career path of a doctor. I think it's very important to know what you'd like to do and what that really means. This allows you to go into college and pick a major that will help you on the path to your dreams. You don't want to be that person that switches their major 5 times, because each time it will take you longer and longer to graduate. You should try to pick one major carefully and then stick to it because each extra semester in college is many more loans that you have to take out to pay for your education and these build up quite quickly. My advice is to take a summer and figure out what you like to do and then when you go to college study hard and pick your major carefully.
Ethan
RELAX! Yes, college is a terrifying thing at first. Questions like "Will I fit in?" and "Am I going to succeed?" will linger, but stick with it and everything will turn out just fine! Adjusting, for anyone, will take some time, so don't feel left out! Academically, just stay the course and be prepared for the semester-long mental grind. Yes, you will only have a few hours of class a day, but a good portion of the rest NEEDS to be used to study, that is the biggest factor for success in college. Lastly, use those teacher office hours! They will love to meet with you and discuss things about class with you one on one! Don't be afraid! And again, RELAX!
Nate
Do something. Do anything. Find something that you love and make that your academic and career goal. Don't be overwhelmed by self doubt or the scale of your dreams. Take a small piece at a time, do it to your fullest ability, and those small victories will end up being an amazingly large accomplishment. The only thing standing between you right now and the person that you want to be is yourself. The only thing you have to do is try.
Megan
To my high school self:
In college, you will face and overcome things that you never thought were possible. Learn to embrace resillience. You are stronger than you think. Take what you learn in college and spread it around. Don't miss out on opportunities to better yourself. Always be kind. Don't let anyone take advantage of you. Learn to be a good judge of people. Immerse yourself in different cultures. Stay out of drama. Apply yourself. Keep the friendships you make. Don't ever take this opportunity for granted. Participate in class. Share your opinion. Ask for help or reach out to someone who needs it. Explore your passions. Use everything that the campus has to offer. Be grateful. Don't underestimate yourself. Build relationships with your professors. Consider other's viewpoints. Always be respectful.
And most importantly, if you ever think you made a mistake by coming to this university, stop yourself in your tracks. It's the best decision you will ever make.
Love,
A new and improved you.
Kelly
It gets better! Senior year seems impossible to handle, with the stress piling on, the applications due, and the expectation to succeed as though the pressure is not eating you alive. It feels as though sometimes it is not even worth is to continue to fight for your dreams, and continue to further your education. However, it is most definitely worth it! Yes, the transition is very stressful and different, at first. But once you realize how hard you worked to get where you are, the transition becomes easier. College is full of new people and new opportunities, so power through your senior year, and succeed at the level you have always been capable of. Do not give up! Keep fighting for acceptance into your dream school, and stay motivated. It does not seem like it now, but in the end all the stress will be worth it. In the end, college life is worth every last tear, and all the frustration. The knowledge you gain from new classes, and the adventure of your new experiences allows you to forget the stress of the journey. Trust me, it gets better!