Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College Top Questions

I would first tell myself to breathe. Not that I needed reminding to complete an essential function for human life, but the thought of starting college made me quite anxious. My life was about to change drastically, and I could not figure out how to emotionally prepare myself. Immediately after I moved in with my roommate, we became friends. I met people in classes, participated in intramurals, and attended sports events. So, I had fun. I wish I would not have worried so much and trusted that I would be just fine. Second, I would tell myself to not be afraid to be me, to have confidence that I am a smart woman with a bright future. My first few years at college, I would get wrapped up in school, and I would forget that this was a unique experience that I would always remember. School work is important, but so is being happy. The truth is, even if I could have given myself advice, it probably wouldn't mean as much as if I was learning it through my own experiences. Ultimately, I think college is about finding yourself and finding your own path in this world.

Going back to the days of being a high school senior it's easy to think you know everything that's coming your way once that diploma is in your hand. Because of the resources I had such as the Internet, social media and MTV I was sure to have everything I needed to know under my sleeve. I was wrong. Knowing what I know now about college and making the transition, the first thing I'd tell myself is, "It's really not as easy as you think." Writing papers, short deadlines, and understanding all the material taught in class was never on TV. All the work and expectations put on you as a college student doesn't begin to compare to the work given in high school. Giving myself another piece of advice, I'd tell myself to stay focused. In college there's so many different things going on it's almost too easy to get side tracked. I know this because it happened to me. It is so important to keep your goals in mind at all times becuase once you mess up getting everything fixed becomes a nightmare when it could've all been avoided.

Drop a class instead of taking the chance at failing. The poor grade is worse than a W.

As a high school senior I believed I knew everything there was to know about making the transition to college and I always told myself how involved I planned on being. The summer before college started I did what most girls do and started filling out forms and getting letters of recommendation to hopefully become part of the Greek System. This process was tiring, exciting, scary and time consuming all at the same time. I went into college with an open mind and expected everything to be okay. However, after the first few weeks I stopped getting involved and kinda just waitied for opportunities to present themselves to me. If I could go back in time the most important thing I would make clear to myself would be to stay involved. College is a great experience and I have had both amazing and terrible things happen while experiencing this transition. However going out of state not knowing anyone can be VERY lonely at times and if you stay involved your mind will stop thinking of all the negatives and you will be able to focus on all the positives that are happening at this current time.

You are not going to believe how easy it is to get lost in the crowd. LSU is big and trying to find friends seems daunting but make a few they will help you. Those late night study sessions are lonely when it is just you but with friends it is always a little easier. You need to go to as many residential life events as possible, they seem lame but you can meet great people at them! Don't sweat the small stuff in college no matter what people say just look to the next task and always try your hardest because everything counts. You may decide to change majors during your first year and lose a scholarship or two but don't worry money will makes its way to you.

Dear High School Self, Remember that it is okay to remain "Briana" and that you should never change for anyone no matter the situation. Hard work always pays off and do not forget to hold on to your wonderful study habits. It is always good to be involved, as you already are however keep a list of your main priorities posted somewhere near as a reminder. Continue to challenge yourself and never second guess your decisions no matter what happens, more than likely you are right. You may have a difficult time being an African-American, young lady, and majoring in Engineering, however do not let that deter you from your dreams. Accept it! You may not be able to receive help as often as others and you may build a wall to make sure others do not see your fear. When you start to build the wall, KNOCK IT DOWN! You are wonderfully MADE and SUCCESSFUL, do not give up! You will do great and will succeed no matter how long it takes or how hard it may turn out. Continue to stand for what you believe in and encouraging others to be the best! Love, College Briana

Change is not something to be afaid of. It means that you are ready for the next stage in life. Every challenge you have overcome is an achievement in and of itself. Have faith in yourself. Don't be afraid to try something new. Go out and meet new people. You know the old saying," The early bird gets the worm"? It's true. Get things done as early and as well as you can. Do not be afraid to use a schedule or a checklist.

I would tell myself to stay away from certain people and stay focused on my course work when I got to college. I would tell myself to change roommates as soon as I got to school. I would tell myself to get involved early in the school year.

Well...since i didnt start yet, i would tell myself to be early on doing things for college like applying.

If I were to travel back and speak with me, I would make sure, by all means, to get four major points across, along with a bunch of smaller things. First of all I would tell myself to save money, and by save, I mean approximately 10-30 thousand dollars. Secondly I would tell myself that every girlfriend that I have up until pharmacy college fails, and to avoid all of them on the intimate level. Thirdly I would tell myself to start studying Biology’s core concepts, and learn them in great detail. Fourthly I would stress watching and understanding cultures, heathcare, and governmental type information as much as I can. If I were to know these four helpful tips, I could’ve saved time, money, and stress/heartbreak. Also, I would have been able to tackle through some golden opportunities that I had to pass up; such as: different colleges, and living quarters. By having enough money, not worrying about intimate female relations, understanding biologys core concepts, and getting familiar with societies dealings, I would be in a supreme position throughout my whole AA, my BA, and especially my Doctorates.