North Carolina State University at Raleigh Top Questions

First of all do not stress out, relax. Try to find a roommate, either via friends from school or the many resources online, this will make your freshman year much more enjoyable. Get everything you will need early and make sure there is nothing left you need to do before move in day. Report every AP score before the exam because it is much easier than trying to report it later. College is different from high school, just like high school is different from middle school, make sure you have figured out a good way to stay organized, you are going to want to have some sort of calendar system to keep up with all of your classes and homework. Listen to the advice people give you and actually use it. When you make your class schedule look into what professor is teaching and what their grade distribution is. Mainly, enjoy your last year of high school, make good use of your last summer, and don’t stress about college. You will make friends as long as you go out and try everything.

I would remind myself to keep my eye on the prize and strive to keep my academic scores as high as possible. I would tell myself to listen to my parents and apply for any and all scholarships beginning the summer prior to my senior year. I would remind myself to enjoy all aspects of my senior year because I will only go this way once and I need to cherish all the memories while reminding myself I will be building new memories in the future. I will console myself with the fact that this is a transition point in my life and, while some friendships will continue and stand the test of time, this is the time that i will begin making new and enduring friendships.

Apply for Scholarships! Make time for your priorities and buckle down! Early turn in dates are there for a reason, take advantage of them! Remember, the school you want to get into only takes the best, so be part of that crowd! Get involved and above everything, LISTEN! Older people didn't get their degree or to their age by being dumb. When someone tells you something, listen! If you have the chance to go to an event that could higher your learning GO! Also, when it comes to working, don't mess up your grades and chances of going to the places you want to go for minimun wage. It isn't worth it. You have you entire life to work, school is what should be your main focus right now no matter what. Make you parents proud. Especially your dad..he wont' be around as long you think.. Show him he raised the best daught he could and carry his name proudly. When it comes to friends, always remember what he told you, "You could be like them in a second, but they would never be like you for their entire life, no matter how hard they try."

I would tell myself to not take any of the available opportunities for granted. There were so many resources given to me as a senior, that I never took advantage of. As a freshman in college, I know now that I didn't manage my time well and I could have earned better grades by studying. However I didn't use the opportunities presented to me, because I felt as if I did not need them.

Maddi, you are about to experience the most freedom you've ever had. When college starts, no one is going to make sure you complete your assignments and no one is going to pat you on the back for studying. It will all be up to you. You need to let the work be its own reward. You know what you are striving for. You have it in you to succeed. Do not sink into complacency. Also, nevermind your high school boyfriend, dear. You aren't going to marry him. Friendships are far more important right now. Most importantly, have confidence in yourself. You are worth it. You will make yourself proud this year. Take risks - it's okay! It's better to try and possibly not do so well, learning experiences are what make us grow! Don't settle for what's easy, you are made of tougher stuff than that. Just manage your time well, and make lots of close friends. That will be your circle of support when you've had a rough day. You are going to have so much fun. And please, take lots of pictures.

When you get the chance to study abroad for a semester take it. However, remember that when you come home stronger in independence and cultural diversity , but further away from those you were connected to before do not distance yourself and shut down. Rather you need to make sure you stay connected and stay focused on finishing your last year of college. It is almost like the old Girl Scout song, you can make new friends but keep the old. Remember they all have something to teach and give. This goes the same for your goals, they may shift but the main goal cannot. You cannot be happy, keep respect of yourself and others, or hold a good job in your future without that piece of paper that says you graduated from an accredited college. You are in a good school, you are doing well, keep focused and finish your degree, no matter what it takes, the first time. You may not agree with all of the teachers or your family but you must stay true to your started goal in order to keep from regretting decisions made in your early twenties for the rest of your life.

DO NOT procrastinate, whatever you do! Study for tests the day they are announced; learn how to study quickly. Utitlize the academic resources for information you don't understand, or you will regret it later, trust me!

Upon meeting my high-school self I would say, “High-school self, don’t seek happiness within material aspirations. Ruminate on the true purpose for your current manifestation in this lifetime and choose a course of study in college that resonates with this life purpose. ‘Why’ you ask? Because this is a proven means of achieving true contentment while in this plane of existence. High-school me, I have learned during our lifetime that we are spiritual beings on a physical journey; therefore, aspire to pursuits of enlightenment and spiritual fulfillment, for this experience will facilitate your inevitable transition from this physical plane to the ethereal one.”

I would tell myself to not be afraid to try new things and be more outgoing. I would say that the more people you meet and get to know the easier and more enjoyable college life would be. I would also remind myself to stay true to my morals and beliefs and that changing for anyone would be a horrible mistake. Another important thing that i would tell myself is that do not wait to the last minute to complete projects and homework. It is not like high school and that just because there seems to be more free time do not forget why you are at college. I would make myself know the importance of developing personal relationships with my professors and that it will be worth it in the future. If they know you care it is more likely that they will be willing to help you when you need it. One of the most important pieces of advice i would give myself is to manage my time wisely and always make time for fun. You are there to learn but without a little free time the stress can engulf you.

I would remind myself to take academics seriously. There is no turning back after taking a test. Always be prepared and know your material. You can only get by through college by educating yourself and putting academics first. It is my own duty to try to get help and become a better student. There will always be distractions, whether it is a party or social event, but remind yourself of what needs to be done first. Also, be involved in as many organizations and clubs as possible. That way you can manage your time wisely and not get side tracked. Get involved in leadership positions and internships before you graduate. That way, employers will see that you are taking action and gaining experience.