The University of Texas at Tyler Top Questions

If I could talk to myslef as a high school senior I would share the importance of patience, setting goals, and making well throughtout decisions. I would tell myself to maximize on your youth and get as much education you can, in order to put yourself in a position to a career, not a job, and ultimately financial freedom. I would let my younger self know quick money is not as important as consistent money. I would stress the importance of having balance in life between family, work, and friends. Lastly, I would say not to be so hard on myself, embrace the good with the bad, and accept the lesson in order to truly learn from it.

Check the due date of the scholarships that you are applying for, and check it twice. Sometimes you will get two different dates and be out of luck if submittion is late.

The main piece of advise that I would give to my senior self is not to give up, and keep studying. When I first got out into the world of college, I was scared by the loans, and at the time, I had a falling out with my dad. This really made me depressed, and so the first semester of college, I pretty much gave up on my classes and stopped caring about my grades. At this point in my life, I've fully picked myself back up, and now I'm making a 4.0 gpa, and I feel more confident with myself after overcoming my depression. I'm not sure if I would actually change anything however, because I truly believe that by overcoming this failure and depression, I am now a stronger person than I was, and I wouldn't trade this experience for the world.

Start on scholarships and time management sooner, also start preparing to decorate your space - it costs more than you'd expect. Also, get more involved and take time out to do the things you enjoy with your friends.

I would tell myself to stop stressing out, that its not as bad as it seems and to not worry about college, but enjoy the rest of high school. I would tell myself that you are smart, outgoing, and athletic and college is going to be the best thing thats ever happened to you, but the nervousness has got to go. The insecurities are unneccesary and that will hold you back from doing things that are out of your comfort zone. The transition will be tough, but thats the worse part. It'll be hard forcing yourself to go to class when you "technically" don't have to, but it'll be worth it when you get that 4.0. Avoid the frat boys, they are no good. Playing volleyball will give you the best friends you could ever imagine and they will remain your friends far after the game is over. Overall, remember your self worth and never give up on yourself. You can do this. Just breathe. Get out there and give it your all. Your are smart enough, pretty enough, and brave enough. Don't ever let someone tell you different.

Don't act like you know everything, Eryn. Calm down and listen to what these people are telling you, they know what they are talking about and you will NEED this information soon. I know that you want to be finished with high school and out of your parents house and that is coming all too soon. Do not rush anything. Take all of it in, and don't fight constantly with your parents. College life is grand, you are great, and you will be perfectly fine. I promise that you stay on track and you will struggle some, but it only makes you stronger. My advice is to relax. Take the time to make new friends, because that is how you will survive your life. Be thankful Eryn for you have turned out to be a great young lady and the people you have surrounded yourself with are only proof of that. While at first the transition will seem tough, you'll see what I mean soon enough, the person you are becoming is breathtaking, and we will both be proud. So worry a little less, don't stress everything, and enjoy all that is around you right now.

Focus on getting the best grades possbile. Don't merely focus on being in all upper level classes. Get the highest grades possible. Have a goal to complete your college applications before October. Give your Texas schools more prefrence than your out of state applications. You should use different study methods such as using a series of flashcards to study for an exam, alternating between subjects while reviewing for exams, or have study partners quiz you on information so that it is not in front of you. A must for college is knowing and establishing a good relationship with your professors. Reach out to your teachers now by asking questions, even if you know the material. Those teachers can potentially become prime candidates for writing letters of recommendations. I know that if you fully apply yourself to experiment with various study methods, consolidate information for tests, develop good communication skills and understand the importance of establishing academic relationships, you will go beyond the horizon and succeed in college. For now, keep striving for good grades and continue to study for those standardized tests. College will come faster than you expect, your future is waiting.

Not to be so concerned about the people I meet. The students are more than willing to help out new freshmen and transfers. I would also tell myself not to wait to join campus programs such as SGA and GATE. I found out too late only Freshmen could join GATE, and that has become a huge regret. I would tell myself to travel and make new connections with the people I meet in the groups I am with. This school wasn't as cut throat as I expected, but it is still an expensive choice.

If I went back in time and talked to myself as a high school senior, I would give alot of helpful advice. First, college marks how much you have grown and now it is time to start the rest of your life. It is extremely scary, but think of it as the adventure it truly is. In the beginning, make time for school work, social activities, working out, and going to the store for necessities. A balance of each equals a happy life. Make many friends in the beginning, because they will be the ones next to you when you are in need. Do not be afraid of what people think about you. Also, do not hang out with your roommates constantly; the relationship will turn against you. So, hang out with other friends you make. Overall, first two months at college are the hardest; being away from your loved ones and home are extremely difficult. Put all of your trust in God and pray because He knows what is best and will guide you in the right direction.

College is hard work. You're not going to just slide by and get through with a blink of an eye. Study everyday and mentally prepare yourself for your future career.