Korrine
If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to apply for scholarships and grants. I waited six years after high school to start college. I would also advise against this. My mother passed away right after I graduated high school. Since I was eighteen, I did not qualify for her social security to assist me with college. We lived in low income housing because of her disability and our income. As soon as she passed, I was forced to move out. I have worked full time since I was sixteen. By the time I was stable in my own place and in my career, I made too much money to get grants. I have decided to continue my education, even though I am concerned about my future financial situation as a result of loans. I would strongly urge any high school senior to go to college and not take a break after high school - even if they suffer a crisis. If I could go back and do it again, I would definately have started school when grants might have been available to help me.
Sarah
I would try and weigh the pros and the cons of the school itself. I would try and apply to get a diverse range of schools to apply to instead of picking three. Also that being yourself is okay and you do not have to try and please yourself. I would tell myself to look at the finanical situation and ask if it is worth it. I would also tell myself that appling for scholarships is never over and to keep on top of it.
Angela
In making the transition, there will always be a few rough days. But remember to take a good look at the big picture. The great times with new friends, the learning experiences, and the accomplishments far outweigh the stress and rough days that lay ahead. Work hard and push yourself beyond the average, but keep a balance in your life. The friends you will be making in the next few years will probably be the closest and most important in your life. Remember to stop every once in a while and enjoy some good laughs, a piece of music that fills your soul, or a breath of fresh air. Afterwards, the burdens that seem too overbearing will shrink a few sizes. In the grand scheme of things, one test or one paper will not determine the outcome of your life career. But do not give up. Never give up on your dreams.
Shakinna
I did not go to college right after High School because I did not know what I wanted to major in and my mother was diagnosed with Cancer my senior year of High school, and passed away 3 years ago. If I could go back to my senior year in High school I would have planned more for college, and looked at more schools.
Nikki
If I could go back in time and talk to myself in my senior year of high school I would stress the most how important it is to be confident with yourself and try new things. The transition to college for me was rough because I was a bookworm. I was afraid to make friends even though I wanted to becasue I thought it would get in the way of my work. I was isolated and that led to developement problems within myself and my identity. People aren't going to bite you and you will never know what will happen until you try. It is important to reach out of your comfort zone and make good relationships with people so that when times get rough you have a support group. Don't isolate, congregate! That is the motto I would give my high school self when she was on the edge of entering the college world.
Patrick
Dear self,
First off, you rock. Seriously, you're the coolest high schooler around. Don't let that jerk from Econ tell you any differently. You will soon learn how awesome you are.
Second off, don't worry about college. You'll do just fine in classes, but make sure you study hard.
Third, make sure you set a solid sleep schedule. Something about staying up until 4 AM studying for World Civilizations throws you off for the rest of the day...
Well, that's about it. Give my love to the princesses! (You'll see...)
-Future Self
p.s. Look under your desk when you move in sophomore year-- I've hidden $5 for pizza. Enjoy!
Daniel
I have a lot of homework and would just like to be entered into the drawing, thanks :)
Seth
I would tell myself to lighten up and be more open to the people that are around you. People aren't going to just walk up to you and say "hey lets be friends." Also the school has freshman things just for this reason and skipping them will only make you miss out on new friends that you will later need to relax with after a hard week of classes. You should probably learn to play some new games as well seeing as the campus life on the weekend is rather dull and you need something to fill the time!
Jessica
The summer before my freshman year of college found me facing the prospect of college with no small amount of terror. Oh, I was looking forward to it, but in the way one looks forward to the highest drop on a roller coaster. One knows the coming drop is going to scare one beyond belief but the scare is ignored for the excitement one expects to feel. Getting ready for college was like waiting in line for that roller coaster and I was freaking out the entire time. Of course, everyone feels that way their freshman year, but I thought I had it worse because I had been homeschooled my entire life and not only was it time for college, it was time to join the "real" world. Everything was going to change.
Change. That was my primary fear. And so it is for so many other people entering college. When I finally arrived at college for the start of my freshman year, the change occured so rapidly and easily that it did feel like the drop on a roller coaster. The drop is always easier than expected. My advice? Don't fear the drop, just enjoy it.
Brittany
The first thing I looked at in a school was location. I started where I knew that I wanted to be. Then I looked for the education that I wanted. I knew that my school was known for their education department. Research the school then go on a visit and explore the extra-curricular oppurtunites the school offeres. But surrounding all of this is the money situation. Families have to know what they can handle. My family is paying more then they thought they would, but in the end I know I am getting a wonderful education. It is up to the family how much they want to abnk on this child's future education. Once you are at a school take advantage of the activities and sports. Use the free facilities the school has. Do not waste the money that you are spending on school. Make sure overall you have a wonderful time, make friends, and you learn to the highest of your ability.