Concordia University-Chicago Top Questions

The advice I would give to myself would be the following. The key to successful years in college life is not about grades or getting the most spectacular degree that will ensure a salary of six digit numbers. The true value of college life is WHAT I want to value during college life. I have one life to spend energy on, therefore I might choose something worthwhile in college so that I can look back and say, "I did not waste time." I should not put all my focus on, "Where will I get an education, what dorm should I choose, or I need that specific grade in order to continue my life." A person who has chosen a goal or degree he or she sees worth doing and spending every second, sweat, blood, and tear will always be happy. No matter what the obstacle, no matter the rejection letters, no matter what. If you are serious in getting a degree that will lead you to a career you find worthwhile then you have that drive to succeed in college life. That is WHAT you need to value. That drive that will take you to that ultimate goal and reality.

If I could go back in time to give myself advice about college, the main thing I would tell myself is to be active and try as many new things at the start as possible. Getting involved is a great way to establish a group of friends and helps make the campus more familiar. Granted I am not the shy type of person, but I would tell myself to stick to my gut instict because having faith in myself is the best modivation to try new things and do will at them. Also, even if the orentation events seem lame, try them because learning to laugh at myself early on will help to build confience in the future. All in all I just need to stay true to myself and trust that every part of my life up till now has prepared me for this and everything will be just fine, and deep down I always know it!

Don't bring your intire closet. And make sure you are yourself, you were born an origanl don't die a copy.

Don't get discouraged about all the stuff going on at school. College is way different and everyone will accept you the way you are and be your friend. You will meet a lot of nice and friendly people and have a great college experience. You will meet some great professors that you will remember the rest of you life. Some of the classes will be very difficult but you will work hard and get through them and the ones you don't pass you will try again and work even harder next time. You will meet some great freshman friends your sophomore year and you will be a great help them. You will become a family and grow stronger everyday and build a bond that will last forever.

I would tell myself to do my research! College is a huge investment, of time and money, and ultimately helps define you as a person. Therefore where you go and what you study is a life changing decision. Take time and look at all your options, and most importantly make sure you give yourself options. Apply everywhere and anywhere you might possibly be interested in, that way you can see what you are offered and make your decision based on that. Also start applying as soon as you are able for scholarship and grants and any financial aid you can get your hands on. The most important thing is to take your time and pick a school that fits all of your needs as well as wants, because it is out there you just have to find it.

I would tell myself not to worry so much. As a high school senior, I was very caught up in the pressures of finding a good school and picking a carreer. I would encourage myself to go to community college and explore the different fields at a reduced price so I could find my favorite major without feeling like i was wasting money. There is nothing to be afraid of, so I wish I hadn't worried so much about where I was going to end up. I am very happy with where I am now, and I wouldn't have it any other way. I certainly couldv'e gotten here just the same with much less stress. So, past self, just relax. Things really will work out in the end.

The most important advice I could give myself or anyone else would be to learn how to make friends. The friends you meet in college are far more important than your major and they will last a lifetime. Prepare yourself to get involved and meet new people. College will also force you to expand or even change your comfort zones. If the change is for the better, it is beneficial to make the change. Also be prepared to work more on your own. In college, there are not teachers and other faculty members always available to wait on you hand and foot. It is important to learn how to solve problems on your own and become an independent person.

Accept that you are learning maturity. This means two things: (1) you need to start growing up and (2) this is a process and you will mess up. This maturity frequently means doing what your mom would want you to do even though she isn't there to make sure you do it. Maturity needs to involve your whole life -- personal and professional. When one part of your life is hurting it will affect the other part, so be wise. Keep up with your work, but know when to say, "I've had enough." Build strong relationships with your friends, but know when to say, "I need to do my work." GET ENOUGH SLEEP! Everything suffers when you are exhausted. Finally, treasure this time. It is wonderful and it will be over far too soon.

Hey Dallas...Dallas...DALLAS! Yes, you! Will you please look up from your homework for like two seconds? Listen to me, it's important. You've been working like crazy for four years, getting superb grades, taking AP courses, and studying like it's goin' out of style. Don't worry, you already know you're getting into college. You already know you're getting a scholarship. What you don't know is what an incredible ride you are about to step on to. You've lived with structure, a commute, dinner on the table, quiet house at night. Are you ready for this? For the 2am pizza runs? For the last-minute projects? For the standing ovations, heartbreaks, ultimate frisbee, girls' nights, and bake sales? How about the class discussions that spill out of the classrooms into the courtyard? The professors who become second parents? The moments when you realize that you are sitting in a classroom and learning exactly what you will be doing only a few short years from now? Are you ready? Here's my advice...brace yourself. Enjoy every moment, and remember everything. It's a crazy ride, hang on tight and love it all.

I would tell myself not to be so worried about the transition and to do my best to manage my time. Just because there's less hours in class and the campus is alive until 2am on a weeknight doesnt' mean that you have to stay up that late.