Amanda
There's really only one piece of advice I have for you as you're graduating high school and leaving for college. This is a tough time for anyone; leaving all the people you've known as you grew up, but believe me, you aren't alone. No matter what you think, you have people who love you. These people want to help you, so don't forget to ask! Always ask for help when you need it.
Rachel
If I could go back to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to not worry. College life is supposed to be fun and a great way to make friends. Being you is the best way. Not only do you meet people that will be your friends for the rest of your life, but those relationships help you to grow as a person. Rely on those friends that you make, your gut instinct in people is awesome, just learn to be more open with them. They will back you up. Being unable to share your thoughts, hopes, and dreams with anyone will close off your natural love of people. Trust is your best ally; continue to use it and many opportunities will come to you.
Jill
I would tell myself to soak it up. Every last ounce. I can't believe how fast this year has flown by. I would also advise myself to be more outgoing with clubs and be more involved in my classes. Kansas State is really great about getting students involved with different programs and I wish that I would have taken advantage of some of those opportunities and used them to get to know more people and network more with people of like interests. I would also warn myself to prepare for "actual" studying. It took me a long time to learn how to study and buckle down and I wish I could go back and force myself to be a better student. Lastly, I would give myself encouraging pats on the back and hugs and remind myself that I can do it. It was quite a journey this first semester, but I have learned and grown so much. I love being a student at Kansas State University. I now see why everyone refers to Manhattan, Kansas as Man-happiness, Kansas, because it's the most magical, wonderful, beautiful place in the world.
Melanie
College is a transition period from child to adult. Kansas State University helped make that transition as painless as possible, and gave me a safe environment in which to explore the plethora of career options available.
When I first came to K-State, I had no idea what to do with my life. It was my first time back in the United States for an extended period; I didn't know anyone, and I didn't know much about living without my family. Through K-State I found a family away from home that was willing to accept me as I am, support me in difficulty and share in my joys.
I grew up as an expatriate in a Third World country, and if I learned anything living there, it is that education is one of the most important things that can be offered to a young person. It gives them the ability to support themselves and improve their quality of life.
Because of my college experience, I have a sound base of support that allows me to pursue my passions and stand up for what I believe. K-State helped me do this, and I will never forget it.
Jordan
“The difference between school and life? In school, you're taught a lesson and then given a test. In life, you're given a test that teaches you a lesson.” - Tom Bodett. I have learned more in my last two years in college than I learned in the entirety of my high school education. These last two years I have learned, laughed, cried, and experienced more life than I ever dreamed possible. I have learned that life does not happen in the planned events, it happens in the little moments that catch you by surprise; and that college is more than just school its also a lifestyle. That some lecture halls are just distant echos, and that books are required for a reason. That no matter how big small, or messy this world becomes, what is needed and what is important is always the same. I would not trade the experiences I have encountered for anything in the world. Here I have met my best friends, gained knowledge and experience, and lived my life the way I have wanted. College is the combining of school and life. What I learn here I will use for the rest of my life.
Shannon
Before I began college I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life or who I wanted to be. My experience in college shaped my life. I have goals and ambitions now, and plan to continue my career by pursuing graduate education. My experience in college cemented my moral center, personal values and philosophical beliefs. I cannot think of another time in my life that has influenced me as much in such a sort time.
Rebecca
My college experience has been wonderful. I love living in the dorms and meeting new people. Attending Kansas State University was a huge step in my life. It has helped me mature and start making important disicions for myself. Coming from a small community and a small high school KSU has really opened my eyes and my mind to new ideas, techniches, and views. Since coming to KSU I have become more independant, confidant, and welcoming to new situations. I am now more comfortable with my self and my ideas when I am thrown into a new situation.
Dustin
I have gained knowledge about the world around me and how it works. The classes have shown true that in school, as with the real world, a person will reap what they sow. School has helped me with both being mature and responsible.
Jeffrey
Since I come from a small community, K-state is definitely the right school for me. I have attended there for less than a year and absolutely love it. As I have stated before the faculty is great and even though communication isn't the greatest sometimes they are always willing to help out. I really like that I can be involved in a lot of activities and have really enjoyed making some wonderful friends. I went into K-State thinking about pursuing my law degree in the future, but I have now changed my mind. Now I want to do something even better. I want to work as a diplomat, in the United Nations, or some other agency. I am currently pursuing my political science degree with a secondary degree in international studies and a minor in leadership studies. I have really enjoyed my time so far and in the process I am learning so many things about myself that I know will help me to become a better leader in the future. I am truly proud to call my home Kstate and would recommend that other people come to this wonderful university as well.
BriA'nna
So far, my college experience has been great! I've gotten so much of it already and continue to learn and grow each day. The classes in the field I have been studying have been most valuable to me because they are what I want to study and what I enjoy learning about. What is so incredible is that I am so engaged in my classes that I did not miss a single class, even when I was sick! My work in the classroom is unbelievably important to me. The atmosphere here at Kansas State University is also unbelievable for a "big" college. Going from one end of campus where all the stadiums are to my dorm room and all of my friends on the other end makes for an incredible amount of activities. The first week of school was really when I knew I was at the right college; having a welcoming watermelon feed out on the animal sciences building lawn was a perfect start to an amazing year. And so far, it HAS been amazing and I can't wait for this next semester to start.