Illinois Valley Community College Top Questions

If, I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior; knowing what I now about college life and making the transition; the advice I would give myself would be: Get informed, about colleges and courses that are available. Because you will do best by having knowledge in many subjects, not just one subject. "SUCCEED"

If i could talk to myself as a senior, I would tell myself to stay on track with my school work because GPA means a lot more in college than in high school. There are so many more opportunities with a good GPA, including scholarships and jobs. It is hard work to get anywhere with a bad GPA, and I know from experience. But, if you work hard to get it back up and show improvement, people will be more willing to help you out if they see that improvement. Also, don't fall in with the wrong crowd. Find friends that have the same interests and goals as you do. And, as cliche as it is, do not give into peer pressure. It doesn't even have to be with drinking or drugs, but something as simple as skipping class.

I would encourage myself to follow my dreams and not let the fear of the unknown scare me. Unfortunately I learned the hard way and took many classes toward a major I didn't even really want to do, because I was scared that becoming a nurse would be "too hard". Fortunately I figured out what I wanted to do, and hope to be accepted into the fall 2010 nursing program at my school.

Knowing what I know now I would have told myself to study a little extra harder to work for more scholarships. I would have also told myself to go to a four-year school, rather than a two year community college and experience college life as a freshman. Also, I would have told myself to go straight to school rather than take the first semester off to leave and travel, but it also helped me out when I was figuring out what I was going to do with my life. When it comes to transitiong, I would have told myself not to stress out as much as I did because the other students are just as nervous as you are and trying to make a smooth adjustment too.

In college, you will not have anyone babying you through your career. Your grades will depend on how high of a GPA you wish to hold. What you were used to in high school, the teachers who checked your progress every day and made sure that you were doing your work, that will all be gone. Sure, you may have a teacher now and then who will get on your case if you're not completing your work in a timely manner, but you will be mostly on your own. Now, no matter how intimidating this may sound, it is a good thing. It will prepare you for the real world, a place where you literally will not be able to support yourself if you do not throw yourself into your work, whatever that may be. I cannot tell you how important it is that you strive for perfection; for no matter how far from it you fall, you will know that you could not possibly have done better. Do your family proud, and earn yourself a degree in an honorable fashion. Good luck!

i would have to tell myself to pay attention to your teachers and to take advantage of all the different college clubs.

Make sure to get involved in some sort of club or intramural sport. Not everyone is an athlete but participating in a club or intramural sport gives you the opportunity to meet new people and make new friends. It also preoccupies your mind with something other than homework, and the club meetings or games are something to look forward to. Don't be afraid to ask questions in the classroom. Teachers don't mind being challenged; this also shows them that you are interested in learning, and not just in passing the class. Start projects or papers early; that way you can ask teachers or even peer students for help or even make revisions yourself. All-nighters are no fun, and take a lot out of you. Class starts at a certain time; this does not mean to show up on campus at that time. Being on campus about 15 minutes before class is advisable.

If I could transport back in time, back to talk to myself at 16, first I would prove that it was me by saying, look under your desk; there's a black diary with notes, that no one else knew you have. Then I would say, i know its tough, when you lose the game after seven months, i know you really worked hard and it just doesnt seem fair, all i can say is hurt like that is hard but it makes you stronger. On Route 52, on your way to school, dont go 75, there's always a cop, im pretty sure he lives back there. And every time you have a fight, just always assume that you are wrong and dad is right. You should also thank Mrs. Bender, she spent all that time, its like she knew what you could do, pushed you hard till you won. You've got so much up ahead, you'll meet new people, make new friends, you should see yourself now. Ill end this by saying have no fear, these are not the best times of your life; oh and by the way hug Grandma Joan every chance you get.

The beginning of senior year started great! I had a fun summer, hung out with my friends, made new friends, and even set high goals and expectations for 12th grade. By the time of my June 4th graduation, I would be preparing to leave my hometown to start anew. The new chapter of my life would begin in an Art college or university, particularly SCAD Atlanta. This would be my first time living on my own, piloting my own life, and mastering my craft. Not to mention having lots of fun while still being responsible. The only downfall is that it didn't happen that way, not even close. I struggled the entire senior year, trying to bring up grades, and do all I was supposed to do in high school, in less than 9 months. This includes community service, credits for classes I should have taken, and solidifying a spot in graduation. Graduatinon almost didn't happen for me. Meanwhile, all of the preparation for college was nonexistant. Everyone doing all they can to acheive higher learning, me... not so much. Why? I have no idea. If only I could tell myself to do it right , the first time.

I would definitely have started out at a community college rather than waste the time and money I did going straight into a University. Community Colleges allow students to decide what they want to do while continuing their education. It is pointless to venture out to a University, which is relatively more in cost, when you have no idea what you want to do with your education. A community college gives students ideas on what and how to pursue the career they wish to have after being able to consider all possibilities. Most career paths require the same general studies and community colleges allow students to get those studies out of the way at a considerably lower value for the classes.