Siena Heights University Top Questions

The conversation back in time: Hello Susan, do not be afraid but I am you sent from the future. I am here to tell you of the opportunity you have to be successful using education as a tool for a brighter future without taking the derailed route I took. Like you I have reading and learning challenges that many do not understand. When I started my educational endeavors there were professors that would say “what’s wrong with you, something must be wrong with you, you know college isn’t for everyone”, and I believed them as I continued to fail. I am 52 finishing up my bachelors degree with plans to continue with higher education in the masters program. I have a rewarding job at a career college mentoring students with learning, financial, and social challenges find their way through the educational system. I absolutely love what I do and would not change a thing other than believe that I could make such a difference not only in my life but the lives of so many others much sooner. I am here to tell you; find your advocate, don’t give up and most of all believe in yourself.

If I could go back in time to myself in high school, I would tell myself that image isn't everything. When I attended high school, I was so caught up in who I hung out with and how I looked to everyone else, that I forgot what truley mattered. I found myself caught up in the wrong crowd, but always made the right choices. I wish however, that I would've taken school more serious, and that I wouldn't have allowed my grades to drop so drastically. I would have tried harder to get in shape for soccer on the off season, instead of going out on my weekends off. I would've spent more time with my family, and less time with my friends. I also would've listened to my mom when she said she didn't like what some of my friends were all about, because now I understand. I would have been a little smarter with my money. And I most of all would have listened to my teachers when they told me how much potential I had when I started to slip up. I would have been a better person to everyone.

I would say that loans are not free money and to only use what you really need in order to reduce future unnecessary debt. I would also say you actually learn when you sit closer to the teacher and by people you dont know; plus you find new friends that probably have better study habits than individuals sitting way in the back. Lastly, you are smart! Dont act dumb as in get lazy in school.

Sara, you are capable of brilliance. You did not know it in high school, and you slacked off until you found your passion and dream in journalism, but it was a little late. You are determined to do well at community college and transfer off to somewhere with more to offer, somewhere big enough to house your dreams. You are going to do great. Relax, take a breather once in a while, be proud of yourself. Do not berate yourself for being a little late to discover your dreams; be proud of yourself for being so sure of those dreams. You are going to get frustrated, but you are going to find yourself more and more inspired each day to achieve the success that you so rightly earned. Fight procrastination with iron fists. Wear armor made of the toughest chainmail against naysayers. Work your hardest and be your best, but please keep in mind that your mental health and clarity is much more important than any GPA. Remind yourself daily that you are capable of success beyond your own imagination.

I would tell myself not to room with my best friend. She is just going to end up leaving you. I would tell myself that when I filled out the rooming form to put all girls floor in all caps. I would say to get out and get to know people. Talk as much as possible and laugh loud. Get involved in anything and everything. Pay attention to the cute Football manager a little sooner. He makes a great boyfriend. To take more night classes, and slack on the homework a little less. To show up for class five minutes early instead of twenty.

I would stress the importance of confidence and believing in yourself. I would want my past self to understand that regardless of your fears or concerns, there are no limitations. You are free to do so many things and you can with the right attitude, hard work, and determination.

During my brief time completeing my Bachelor's degree and starting my Master's degree the biggest lesson that I have learned is simply acceptance. Acceptance for not only people from many different backgrounds and religions, but for their points of view. Prior to furthering my education I was very closed minded and thought that my way was the only way. Through these classes I have had a wonderful eye opening experience that will remain with me throughout my life. This is something I have every intention to teach to the next couple of generations of young people that I may influence.

My college experienca has been one of the best things in my life. I love the feeling of accomplishment I have and the determination I have about my future. When I graduated from high school I was a wayward soul; I wasn't sure about anything I wanted in my future. Now that I have been in school for a few years I feel like a new person and I have learned that I don't really have to know everything now. I am going after my dreams and for now that is ok.

I have gotten quite a few lessons along with knowlege out of my college experience. I have learned that working hard for my education is the only way for me to succeed in my career goals. I have learned to be respectful and punctual. It has been valuable to attend college because it taught me the precise knowlege I need in a life long career. College has been a extreme value to my resume along with my life lessons, and goals in my life. It has taught me more than anything that I can succeed and build my life with my knowledge.

Make sure that the school you choose has the type of classes you really enjoy and the majors you see yourself interested in, even if you're not sure. If you're undecided, pick a school with lots of options.