Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis Top Questions

Many things come to mind that I would love to tell my high school self - "Don't worry about what people think about you" or "You'll actually miss your family when you move away", but probably the most important thing would be to go into the education field from the get-go. I am currently going back to school to receive my teaching certification as I have decided that I wanted to teach. However, since I came from a family of teachers, I wanted to try something different, so I pursued Communication. When I had only a year left of college, I knew that I didn't like what I was doing, however, I just wanted to graduate, get a job and start making money. After having 3 different jobs since graduating from college, I decided to return to school. This was a hard desicion because I felt that I had wasted those first years. However, as I sit here now reflecting about this time, I realized I learned much from those experiences and really wouldn't want to change a thing. I would simply tell my high school self to be content no matter what I am doing.

Given the oppertunity to speak with my highschool self, my only advice would be to believe in myself so that I could keep on with school! I had so much potential leaving highschool, however, because I did not have the emotional support and was still on the wrong path (thats to adolences and teenaged angst)I did not continue with school and directly went into the work force. I was a silver knight nominee and an amazing artist, had outstanding grades and a bright road. If I had at least one person who was close to me push me forward, I would not have lived the through the damaging circumstances in my early 20's. I reentered school at 24, already a single-parent, and living alone with my child. Had I kept going with school, I would not be facing the financial and emotional struggles I am now. I finally opened my eyes, and reenrolled. However, it is not for myself, but for my child. I will be that emotional support she needs, so that she does not falter like I did.

If I could give my high school-self advice about college, I would tell myself to remain hopeful. In this life, many things work their way into our lives and try to tear us down, physically, emotionally, and mentally. The stresses of college increase this wearing and tearing. When we get weary, hope is the only thing that keeps us smiling. I will admit my first year of college wasn’t the best. I was dealing with personal aspects of a 17-year-old’s life that reflected in some of my work. I wasn’t truly happy or enjoying life as much as I should’ve been. I was close to just giving up on my work because of how hard I was making it seem, but right when I felt I was giving up, I began to think of why I was in school in the first place. I knew that the outcome would lead me to more happiness than I could’ve imagined. So I remained hopeful and reminded myself every day that it didn’t matter where I was at for the moment because where I was going to end up was worth fighting for.

When I was in high school, I was very adamant about my four year plan; I knew how and when and where I would pursue my career goals. Fortunately, nothing worked out the way I planned, but at the time, I was disappointed about some of the setbacks that I encountered. If I could give myself advice as a high school senior, I would tell myself that everything works out for the best. I did not get into nursing the first time I applied and had to transfer schools, but I now love where I am and am thankful that this was the opportunity that I was meant for. I would have never gained the experience or friends I have now, if things worked out the way I had originally planned. I would remind myself to keep working hard, and the obstacles that are upsetting now, will be lifesavers in the end.

If I could go back in time and talk to my younger high school self, I would tell myself to wait for one to five year(s) before attending school. I was not mature enough at that time to attend an institution of higher learning. I would tell myself to be a lot more serious about my grades and future, that my poor class attendance and even worse grades will follow me for years to come. I flunked out of school (too much partying) in my sophomore year in 1986. Don't worry what other people think of you, especially your fellow high school classmates. You'll probably never see them again anyway. Besides, everyone makes mistakes. Take Chemistry and Biology, and stop being afraid of science courses. Stop being afraid, PERIOD. Treat your depression now; don't wait until age 28 to do so. Stop the alcohol abuse now, quit drinking and enter AA while you are still young. I would tell myself "Your past does not define your future or who you are today. Your parents' mistakes are not your own." Hlep yourself make something of your life now. And be happy, it's most important!

As a 31 year old woman, high school seems so far back on the road I've been traveling. While I never long to relive that part of the journey I certainly have some advice for the yonger me, who seems like a hazy reflection of my current self. I would encourage her not to worry what other people think and not to assess her own worth by the acceptance of others. With all of the adults around having unrealistic expectations regarding her ability to know exactly what she wants from life, I would let her know to be patient and that appreciating each day is much more important than worrying about what the future holds. Regardless of how much a person plans, life never turns out exactly as they expect.

I would tell myself that I was good at something and I just have to go out and find it. College seems scary, but if you work hard and keep an open mind there is nothing you can't do. I know you think you are going to fail, but you are smart and hard working and in college people are going to recognize that in you. You will be rewarded and revered by the school, you'll be the example to the rest of the class. You are going to be good at so many things because you love to learn you just haven't had the right enivironment yet. I believe in you and you should believe in yourself. You are wonderful and college is going to help you realize that and become who you really are.

I am currently taking a Transitions course at my local college. This course teaches a lot of things that would be useful to high school students today. While I understand the emphasis of general subjects to further educations, why haven't we (in the past) had classes that deal with the realistic aspects of life after leaving your parents to pursue your future? Going back in time, I would tell myself to implement time management skills, patience, monetary budgeting, perseverence, career planning , and stress management. If I had to put time into anything, it would be those six skills. In college, if one can master (or come close) to all of these important attributes, then the stress level and pressures of college life would be significantly less, thus increasing the overall performance and outlook of the student after graduating. These skills can and should be applied to life after college as well.

I would absolutely try my best to prepare myself more in all aspects such as; managing and budgeting my money, focusing on what excatly I see myself doing career wise and taking the time to apply for every scholarship I possibly could.

The first advice I would give myself as a high school student would be to learn some good time management skills. Everything in your college life revolves around class schedules and due dates so it is critical that you learn to plan ahead. The best way to handle your homework is to set aside certain days to work on your different classes. The second advice I give would be to get involved with activities and clubs on your campus, do not be afraid to go out of your confort zone. College is more enjoyable when you finally meet and connect with other people who share the same passion for the career that you are pursuing. The last bit of advice I would give would be to stay focused on your goals. Look for opportunities to gain experience working or volunteering in the career you want to do. It will help keep you motivated towards achieving your goals and ultimately earing your degree.