Madalyn
If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I'd tell myself to choose a college based on actually academics, not reputation. I'd make sure and tell myself to focus on classroom size and alumni satisfaction when choosing a college. I'd make sure I remember to let myself know to pay close attention to my GPA in highschool and start great study habbits. I'd tell myself to remember to enjoy the experience, and make sure to learn something, instead of just making the grade. College is important, and choosing one is difficult, but what matters most is what I take from the experience. Big colleges, especially those with huge reputations, usually aren't as involved in the classroom as outside. Check where the tuition money goes. Find out what's important to the college's heart and future. Lastly, Id really emphasize to myself to follow my own heart, and not strictly the advice of my parents'. I have to be happy most of all.
Leah
Stop stressing about the little stuff. College tests can be so difficult and stressful on their own that there is no need to freak-out about things that won't have much affect on you. Also procrastination is your enemy, and sleep is your friend. As long as you prioritize you can have a fulfilling and stress free college experience with the perfect balance between academics and your social life.
Stephanie
Follow your heart and trust in God to put you exactly where you need to be in order to grow into your best self. Stop questioning and worrying because you will be taken care of by those who love you. I love you!
Mattelynn
Don't give up. Although finishing highschool is a sigh of relief, you need to stay strong through college. Do not stress so much about finances. Even though your parents cannot help, you will find yourself stretching dollars like you couldn't imagine. Go to class. Many of your friends will find themselves with C's in a class you're easily making A's in due to skipping. Don't drink! Not only is it unhealthy, but inefficient. You'll feel tired and it won't help in your studies. You can attend parties without getting drunk. Stay healthy! You may find yourself worrying about how you will maintain your healthy lifestyle in college, but don't - you will find that many healthy foods in bulk are cheaper than pre-made meals. Live near campus - you will be able to walk to school and work without the hassle of traffic. Get an on-campus job! They pay pretty well, and much of the time, you can study. Don't slow down! The faster you finish, the faster you can move on with your life and out of Louisiana. Don't change and you'll find yourself on top!
Andrew
Try harder freshman year and meet more people!
Travis
If I could go back in time to talk to my former, younger self , there are only a few, yet important, pieces of advice I would give to him. First, find out who you truly are. There are many people who will challenge this. Take time to figure out what you stand for and what you believe in, and stand stong in those values and beliefs. College will probably be one of the toughest experiences of your life, but never give up. Never give up when the whole world seems like it turns its back on you, keep fighting, keep pressing on. When things get rough, fight harder. When you feel like you want to give up, stand firm. College will push you to your ultimate breaking point, but in that moment is when you get up and remember what you stand for, what you are fighting for. You are fighting for a reason, and every ounce of effort you give will all be worth it in the end. There is a light at the end of the tunnel which shines brighter with each passing day. Once you get there, the light will shine brighter than ever before!
Isabella
Don't waste your summer job money, savor every last high school memory, and be preapared for college to kick the heck out of you. You'll be beat down, lifted back up, have your dreams dashed. It's seems impossible looking forward to your "best years" as a graduating senior, but its going to happen and you could be better for it. Your parents mean well.
Mohammad
Get involved in as many activities as you can. I'm in the Student Government right now but it took me a while for me to finally be accepted, and I felt like if I had more leadership skills in high school then I probably would've gotten in faster, cause I had to prove my leadership in college then apply for SG again. Also, I know people say this alot, but you really have to make sure you graduate with really good grades and stay focused on your high school subjects. I did great academically in high school and I got a large number of credit hours in university for my grades. And, the first few subjects you take in college will be relatively easy which is always a good thing since you won't be bogged down by bad grades.
Adam
If i could go back in time and talk to myself when i was still attending high school, I would tell myself to take as many AP courses and take as many of the AP college credit tests as possible. College is expensive and being able to be ahead of everyone and spend less money at the same time is a huge advantage. With the way things are now, college is a competition. A competition for your job and you need to do anything and everything possible to come out on top. I would also tell myself that my procrastination habits need to die out. In college you can't procrastinate or the weight load of assignments will be the end of you. Staying on top and ahead is the key to success in college. I would make sure that I knew all of this.
Samantha
Samantha, I know you worry about grades and losing your TOPS Scholarship in the first year, but you need to let loose. Have some fun. Make some friends. You will find that if you have a little more fun and de-stress, your grades will get a little better. Stress isn't good for the mind or body. On weekends, don't study on Friday nights, wake up early on Saturday and study until noon or 1pm at the latest, and study Sunday nights. That will allow you to have just the right amount of studying and relaxation to prepare you for the week ahead. Don't worry, you're doing fine!