Andrew
Once I was accepted into my undergraduate university I then had the opportunity to apply to their film program. My plan for several years had been to major in filmmaking, but unfortunately I was not accepted. To justify the situation, I convinced myself that film had been a foolish choice and that I needed to pick a more reliable major. I chose accounting. I became angry at society, cynical about my classes, my grades declined, and I barely graduated. When I began work at a CPA firm I had a bad attitude. I quit some jobs, lost some jobs, and struggled for ten years with depression and alcoholism hanging my head low as I walked into the office each day. Finally, at age thirty, I gathered the strength to change my life. I sent a short film to some graduate schools. The following fall I nearly wept as I walked into my first class. I was finally working towards the life I wanted. It was 15 years after I graduated high school. If I could have gone back in time and talked to myself then, I would have said to never stop following your dream.
John
I would tell myself to look into every college around in Georgia and compare them to the current college I go to now. I know my current college is the best in the field I want to major in Georgia, but it is also a private college so Hope and Pell Grant hardly help me out with tuition. If no other college in Georgia offers a decent film program, then apply for more and more scholarships as a high schooler. My biggest worry right now is that I might have to drop out because of not being able to pay and that is something I could have helped myself out in high school.
kristine
Please take english AP. It may be your least favorite subject, but you know you could have tested out of college english and it isn't any better here than it is in high school.
Gala
If I could go back in time and speak to my younger self in high school I would say “don’t forget to have fun”. Senior year is a stressful and desperate time in trying to apply to your dream college and trying to gather every penny to make your dream happen, but senior year is also the last chance you have to be a kid. Once you’re in college there is no way back. You have become a respected member of the community and you cannot afford to let anyone down. There is no more time for uncertainty because every step you take is one closer to ensuing future.
Emily
I will tell myself to work harder in school because if I had better grades I would have gotten more finacial aid. Also I would have told myself to apply sooner for scholarships and to not give up on going to the college of my dreams. It is a lot of money and any little bit counts but I don't regret going one bit. I just wish at the time I would have appreciated my time there more and make a lot of friends.
Michaela
It. Gets. Better. Life does not end after high school. You can't choose who you go to high school with because they already live in your town. But there are thousands of high schools all over the country and each one has "that one weird kid" just like you. Just like there's a convention and festival for every interest, there's always someone who likes what you like. You're scared of the unknown, I know. But ignorance is NOT bliss. All the depression, all the frustration, all the fear of a boring job, it's all pointless. You are not alone. There are people like you, who want to do what you want to do. There's a career for it. You CAN make money doing what you love and you should! There is no reason, at all, for you to do anything that makes you unhappy. You have good ideas, so express them! Make them known! Do what you love and learn how to make a career out of it. Be patient, calculating, and above all, never ever abandon your creative side.
Brittany
What I am started to realize is that the most important decisions in life are the ones that you have the longest to make: take your time. Stay focused, but focus on the present. What is it that currently makes you feel fulfilled? How can you make a career out of this? If you're looking solely to make money, don't go to art school (that's a joke, but also true). If you are looking to expand your way of thinking, travel as much as you can. Stop being so indedpendent and stubborn; if someone offers you help, take it. If someone needs assistance, offer it. You have time for others and yourself: stop stressing. Volunteer more: you enjoy every second of it and you learn just as much in the field as the classroom. Breathe. Trust yourself. Be open. Be honest, especially with yourself. Don't get too comfortable; just because you think design is your calling due to your love of art, don't be afraid to admit that what you really love is helping others explore their imagination. And don't you dare lose that--doing so will make you feel lost: you're not.
mikayla
the first thing i would tell myself is apply to scholarships first. i would tell myself that because college is going to cost alot no matter where you go, so applying to scholarships first will help me start by saving money for college. the next thing i would tell myself is finish college applications early so i can qualify for big scholarships. it is important to get the application done early so you can be one of the first to get your application looked at and can be considered for a scholarship and to possibly be accepted early. lastly i would tell myself to apply to some in-school schools or community colleges just in case money is scarce or i dont get accepted into an out-of-state school.
Mikhaila
If I could talk to my high school senior self, I would say, "Mikhaila, congratulations on being accepted to SCAD, A.K.A. the college of your dreams! You have come a long way since you were that awkward 14 year old freshman, and for this, I truly congraulate you. even though you are thinking, 'Yes! I'm so done with this school and all of its immature students,' don't forget that college is a school, too. I'm not trying to say this in a negative manner. All I'm say is that now, it is all up to you to keep up with your studies and to meet your deadlines. Personal responsibility is the key to success in college. Furthermore, don't forget to have some fun. Even though becoming a freshman all over again can seem a bit scary, remember that you are not the only one feeling this way. Socialize with other freshman once you're in college, and make new friends. Now, I know that sounds cliche, but every single word is true. Your college years are suppose to be the best time of your life, so make it count while making smart choices."
victoria
If I could could give my past self advice the first is, choose the school you want most. Sure the other school gave you more money in funding but its cold in Baltimore and cold is not our favorite. They may seem all nice and eager but you'll enjoy the warmer school better and girl that navy guy he's history. You know he's cute and sweet but making a desicion on where to go for school because of him is just wrong. Enjoy yourself but dont go overboard. I know hunting for scholarships is boring and none of your friends are doing it but, sit down and do it. It's boring not fun and yeah it does knock down yourself of steam since we're not academic geniuses, but how are you going to pay for college? The first step to our dream is not improving our talent, thats what the school is for, but getting the money to improve your talent. Oh and wine is important but live on campus for a quarter girl you know that cat hair is not your best friend, people are your friends. Good girl be social.