Rebecca
If I could go back and tell myself what I know now I would tell myself not to be so scared. It is easier than most people think. I would also tell myself to be prepared to never have a second to waste. Between work and school there is a lot of stress on time. The college life is nonstop but easy to excell in as long as you dedicate yourself to what is important. I would tell myself not to be afraid to ask questions because the professors want to help you. College is not like in the movies or on TV.
Kaitlyn
Here's the deal, times are quickly changing. You are about to enter a crazy whirlwind of life that will be equal parts of terrible and beautiful. There are things that will happen out of your control, but know that everything will make you stronger. Stand strong in your beliefs and don't change them just because you think someone is cute. If people want to leave, let them go. Better people will choose to stay. There are a few job opportunities that will come in early, but you will push off until later. Take them, because you'll miss being able to only do them just once.
You're a strange girl, just embrace it. Part of your quirkiness is the reason behind some of the best friends that you have. As much as you love your t-shirt and jeans, try dressing up. You will come to enjoy it and it really does help your confidence level. Remember that it's alright to receive help from people and it's alright to achieve things on your own. School is important, but socializing is as well. Find a balance. Remember to breathe. Enjoy the life around you!
Abigail
If I could go back in time and give myself advice while I was I high school senior, the first thing I would say is not to take AP Calculus. I didn't know this until I got here, but even if I had passed the AP Exam, the credit I earned wouldn't have gotten me out of any classes here. It's important when taking dual credit to make sure it will work in your favor! Another thing I would say is to be patient with friendships. I struggled in high school with feeling a part of a close friend group. I would encourage myself to keep being a friend to everyone and don't give anyone reasons to be mad at you, and eventually you will build strong relationships over time. I'm still struggling with that now, but I've gained that perspective with patience that I didn't have before. Finally, I would tell myself to stay ahead on homework and not let deadlines pile up. If you are strategic about getting projects done and space out your work, you will save yourself a lot of stress at crunch time!
Erin
As a high school senior, I was very academically focused and this would often stress me out to unordinary extents; furthermore, the anticipation of transitioning into college only heightened those extents. If I could go back in time and talk to my seventeen year old self, I would say just one word: “relax”. I have recently completed my first semester of college at Texas Woman’s University, and the transition was not nearly as tough as I imagined it to be. I truly love the college experience and I encourage many others to advance to higher learning. I would tell my high school self that in the future I am exactly where I want to be and I love where my life has taken me. Truthfully, all I would want myself to know is that trying my best was enough. Lastly, I might hint to myself that I need to purchase some rain boots because the roads at Texas Woman’s University turn into rushing rivers during a thunderstorm.
Jasmine
If I could give my high school self advice it would be to take full advantage when it comes to preparing for college and do not procastinate. Look into majors, research schools, and find scholarships. I did not dedicate myself to these as actively as I should have in high school and now I wonder if I am on the right track or if there is more I should be doing. I also say to research schools because sometimes I wonder if I made a mistake jumping straight into a four year university since I often feel like I am way ahead of what I am capable of. Lastly, I say find scholarships because student loans are a killer and I often worry about whether I will be in debt for the rest of my life trying to pay for an education i'm not even sure I can complete. I would advise my high school self to try be prepare for the future basically and don't waste time. You are young and don't have to have all the answers but be sure this what you want and make a plan on how to get there.
elizabeth
I would tell myself not to worry so much. While college is not easy, you are smart and you can do it. Study hard, but also have some fun. Do not put off going to school, it is important especially for what you have planned in life. Ask questions when you do not know the answers, and listen carefully to everything that the professor says. Do not rely on anyone else, you are the key to your future and your happiness. Tomorrow will be here before you know it, do not waste today or you will have regrets.
Shanna
Stop stressing. Yes, you are going to live on your own for the first time, you'll have to take care of yourself. Classes are going to be hard. But not impossible. It's going to be one of the best experiences of your life. You are gonna have to work to keep your GPA up. But you can do it. It's hard at times, but you meet so many great people and have such amazing times. It will be all worth it. Enjoy the time you have left at home, but know that it's going to be great to be on your own. There are great oppertunites and people that help you not feel so home sick. So don't worry. Your going to do great.
Michael
Don't skip out on your education. You are a bright young man, don't give up on yourself. Just because you came from poverty doesn't mean you have to stay in poverty. Many great things are in your grasp, reach out and take it. It's scary as hell, yes, but the trip is worth the full plunge and nobody will think less of you if you go for it.
I believe in you, you always have trusted in me. This time, just go for it.
Zakiyyah
Accomplishing college and receiving a degree has to be one of the greatest accomplishments in your life. Although, I am not finished with my college career, I encourage you to keep going! Don’t ever give up on your dreams and aspirations! There are going to be moments of being up and moments of being down while being in college Zakiyyah. Maintaining your good organizational skills will help you in future years to come. College is all about being organized and staying focused. Becoming personable to your professors and classmates will be your greatest resources. Most of all, do not forget what your mother and grandmother has taught you about keeping God first. God is your foundation Zakiyyah. You will do well in college and you have a great team of supports around you. Your transition to college is going to be an experience you will never forget.
Shasity
Shasity,
You should have applied to a magnet high school, because the high school you are currently in will not help you what so ever for what is to come. You should have also taken as many advanced placement courses as you could have, because that will save you a whole lot of money that frankly you just do not have. However, you still have a year left before you go to Texas Woman’s University. You will need to take as many advanced placement courses as you can this last year, so that you can save whatever money you can. Also, the best way you study is by writing the material again and saying it out loud. This has been the best way thus far, and let me tell you IT WORKS FOR YOU! So now that you are going to be taking these advanced classes do that and I promise you will pass the exams!
Good Luck!