Mississippi College Top Questions

To Alyssa, May 2011— Embarking on any adventure is thrilling, though fully terrifying. Journeying away from home is no different. As you leave for college, do one thing every day that scares you. Step beyond the comfortable and reach out. Reach out to those on the outskirts. Be mindful of those who are lonely and need a friend. Be an initiator of conversation, even when it cost you time. Remember that authentic community is not instantaneous. It often begins with awkwardness. That's okay. I promise it is worth it. Yes, college is about getting an education for the future, but never lose sight of the importance of the present. Even now as I look toward graduate school I have to repeat these same words over and over. People are what matter most. Everyone has a story to tell. Remember always to show grace, be gentle, and demonstrate kindness. With love, Alyssa, January 2015

I would go back and tell my self to do more scholarships. They really do help when you are trying to pay for school. Being lazy doesn't cut it when it comes to paying for school.

I would tell myself to apply for every single scholarship possible. Paying for college can be tough and every bit of money awarded to a graduating senior can go towards tution and books.

Some of those things that seemed so very important; looks, popularity, the groups that you strived so hard to be a part of. They lose much of their luster. Stay focused on the important matters. Most of all laugh at yourself and enjoy family, friends and opportunities that lay before you.

There are several things I would do different if I had the opportunity to do over again. I would first have a plan A and a plan B. It is always good to have a back-up plan if the first doesn’t work. Keep the grade point average (GPA) high, once it dips it is so hard to retrieve it back. Your GPA can make you or break you in terms of getting scholarships. Communicate with professors, they are most often willing to help, if you just ask for it. Schedule and pace yourself with time management. Adhering to a routine will help you accomplish goals on time. Don’t be a procrastinator, once you have an assignment start on it immediately. If you wait until the last minute anything could go wrong, for instance, your computer crashing with all your information you just typed in. Only borrow the money you need when applying for students loans, the money does have to be paid back. Many of these tips will help you have a successful year in college.

I would tell myself to enjoy the little moments and prepare yourself emotionally for what everyone seems to call "the awkward phase" in life. You will be making changes constantly, and they will affect your emotions. Be honest with your friends about your feelings because odds are, they are feeling exactly the same way. Work hard and stay focused, but don't be afraid to take a break and do something you enjoy. Don't ever take a class just to prove that you can pass, take it because you want to or need to take it. Have fun with your major, but don't buy into the lie that a college degree equals a job offer. Research what you want to go into, and be flexible with your life plans. Use your college's resources as far as career help and part-time job listings, it might land you the job of your dreams. Most of all remember, sleep is not everything, but take naps when you get the chance.

If I could prepare myself for the college life, I'd tell myself to treasure the time I have with my family because after getting to college you don't have time to see your family between the studying, rushing and having a little bit of a social life. I'd tell myself to study and when I think I've studied enough, study some more.

If I were to go back in time, I would tell myself "Buckle up and enjoy the ride". College is nothing you could have ever predicted. You are going to meet some amazing and wonderful people. Of course, it is going to be very difficult and a little scary, but you can do it. Live a little, and expand your world. Do not lose sight of your goals. The first semester of college is going to feel like it will never end, but you will survive. You will have to study so much and lose a great deal of sleep, though it will be worth it. I know college is going to stretch you to your limits and beyond, but you will survive. You are going to see the world so differently. Most importantly, you are going to develop an amazing relationship with God and dig even deeper into your faith. So, right now I know you are getting close to graduation, and just cannot wait to get out of high school. Though, just breathe. Life goes by way too quickly. Enjoy the time you have left, because college is an amazing experience that you could have never seen coming.

before entering Mississippi College i needed to be refined, i have became closer to GOD which has brought me peace through out my life at home,school and work. it's really good to know that when you come here you'll be treated equally whether you belive in god or not. it's also nice because there are various programs, and activities you can do to get closer to god, meet more people to help you whether its for Christian views or just trying to plan a better future! The people at this school help when it's time for interviews, they'll walk you through an interview so you'll know what the interviewee expects from you. this school is so vauble because it helps in ways for the present and the future, it really help build you before entering the work/careeer world!!

I have learned you get out of it what you put into it. Education is an investment that you will always have a return on. Showing up for class prepared, meaning books, paper, assignments and brain. Be a particiapant in class, learn to study in groups if you are having a hard time learning the material. Particiapte in organizations and workshops that the school offers. I have learned that Virginia College cares about it students and the only way you can fail is that you don't follow the directions as given to you. They give you the tools and resources to be successful. The staff including Admissions, Financial Aid, Career Services and Student Accounts actually care about your well being, they are there when you have questions and don't treat you like a number. I have never attended a school where everything is explained to you until you get it. I love college life I never ever thought College life would be this easy. My advise is to give it all you got, expect a challenge and determine to keep pressing forward. When you stumble , don't give up - Get UP!