Kent State University at Kent Top Questions

Given the opportunity to go back in time, I would have to tell myself to remember to take the structure and foundation that I grew up with in my high school and in my houshold along with me to college. Included in these structures and foundations are aspects of life such as discipline, morals, and appropriate decision making. I have been a firsthand witness to some examples of poor deicsion making. I have realized that new college freshmen, including myself, tend to take advantage of the freedom that college presents. There have been instances throughout my experience so far where some students lacked a proper foundation and found themselves negleting their priorities such as grades, time management, and obligations to family and friends. Being aware of this, as a high school senior, I would have been able to better prepare myself for dificulties that coincide with ultimate freedom.

I would tell myself to take my school work more seriously and to take a math class my senior year. I would also tell myself to become more involved so that when I get to college, it won't be as difficult for me to talk and associate with people. Another thing I would tell myself is to start earlier when appyling for scholarships because deadlines come and go very quickly.

Dear High School Me, First off, let me tell you... you are going to LOVE college. It's the best thing to happen to you so far, so hang in there. I know it has been really difficult lately, but you will get through it, I promise. You have done a wonderful job academically, but I know high school has not quite lived up to what you wanted socially, but keep being yourself. You should never compromise your beautiful, bubbly personality to fit in with the other people who have tried so hard to break you down. I know recently you were bullied and had the word "Do-Gooder" scrawled across the windshield of your car. I know it broke your heart to have someone go out of their way to hurt you-- but you know what I say? So be it. Perhaps you are a bit of a do-gooder-- embrace the fact you always try to do the right thing, the fact that you truly care about what you do and those around you. Be proud of yourself. The best is yet to come. Hang in there, love who you are, and remember-- so be it. Love, Blair

Being a sophomore in college now, I have really gotten a chance to understand the changes that take place from graduation until now. Many high school seniors are a bit naive going into college, as I also was. I did not understand the intensity of college, and I also did not understand the amazing opportunities that would be presented to me. I would give the advice to be prepared for your life to make a big change. Change is not a bad thing, and many great things come from it. I would tell myself to be open to new experiences and allow myself to try anything and everything I wanted to. College is about discovering yourself and working towards and building your future. I would encourage myself to not get too stressed when courses get hectic and to always look ahead at how much this college experience will shape your future and present you with lifelong opportunities. Most importantly, I would tell myself to have fun and enjoy an amazing 4 years ahead of you. Academics come first, but you must make time for exciting, new, and fun activities so you can enjoy your ride to success and the future.

Hey, Senior! Your high school years have passed you by, You’re being told “It’s time to fly!” Good-bye teachers, classmates, friends, So sorry this chapter has got to end. Take it from me, you’re going to be fine, There’re some things to keep in mind. The work steps up – you will see A higher standard is meant to be. Dorm life sounds like so much fun But first the projects must be done! College classes fill up fast So for registering, don’t be last! You’ve always hated cafeteria faire Be glad to know food’s better there! Don’t sell your food points-they have to last, Midnight pizzas can use them fast! There’s no problem finding a beer, Believe your R.A. - “Don’t do it here!” Take care of the pal who stumbles in Favors get paid back – you’re like “kin”. I’m not going to lie; it’s going to be tough You’ll get overwhelmed – there’s so much “stuff”. But the rewards you reap when you reach the end Are knowledge, confidence, memories, and friends.

I would tell my senior self how important my grades and attendance are. That I should get involved in the sports I played as a child. The major conversation would be to discontinue drug use and take care of my drug addiction before I moved forward in life. I also would have told myself that while having a child is great, having one at 17 will make your life that much harder. I would have made sure that I seeked the neccessary help to be able to acheive my goals at the appropriate age. I would have made sure that I knew how fun college could have been with my friends and that I could have all my dreams of success well on there way if I stayed in line. I would want myself to know that if I actually put the effort forward in stead of resting on my morals and getting by with the absolute bare minimals I could get into any college I wanted to and started in a program of study to fulfill my dreams. Last but not least I wished I knew that of stayed involved and invested in my education.

The simplest advice that I could give to a high school senior would be to apply for every scholarship and grant possible. Strive to do well in your classes and extracurriculars to gain credibility when applying. College is not easy, but it's even harder when you're in debt. Scholarships make you so thankful for the opportunity to get an education and not be pressured with debt after graduation.

Assuming time travel exists and knowing what I know now, I would tell myself five things. 1.) Now is the time to have this experience, you will never be young again. 2.) You will be given many opportunities to learn in and out of the classroom, every experience you have will teach you something if you let it. 3.) Our time here is limited and definately not certain, go to college with an open mind and find your passion. 4.) Be a part of something bigger than yourself, keep a possitive attitude no matter what. 5.) Relax! everything will be just fine.

The transition to college life was very difficult but with time and support it was fine. Don't worry too much because it will interfere with getting to know new people. The beginning of freshman year is an important time to meet friends. Living with someone new is very intimidating but you learn a lot from each other and the times you spend together is priceless. There are many horror stories about college roommates, but don't worry too much or else you will never allow yourself to be open and relax. The classes are much harder, make sure to study a lot and communicate with the instructors. Don't worry if you do poorly on the first exam, just make sure to study harder and stay focused. As you grow you may change your major, it does not mean that you are a failure, just that your dreams have changed. Be sure to enjoy your class discussions, learn from what others are saying even if you will not be tested on the material. Study hard and enjoy yourself!

If I could go back in time and give my past self one piece of advice I would have to tell myself not to be so trusting. The people I grew up with changed in college. The one girl I roomed with had been a good friend of mine for a number of years but she ended up stealing a number of items from me. In the beginning we were the same as before doing what we needed to. Then we started hanging out with different people and started to drift a part. After a while she started skipping classes and leaving campus for days at a time. I tried to help her but you can't someone who doesn't want help. I should have worried more about myself then about her, but I couldn't she had been a good friend of mine and I wanted to help her as best I could. If I could go back and give myself any advice it would be ,"that friends come and go so take care of yourself first because that's who you can always count on."