April
I would remind myself to be careful in my desires to go to a school so far away from home. Make sure you are GOING TO college because you want to and you feel that is the right place for you, not simply as a means to RUN AWAY FROM something. If you go to college with the desire to simply run away from your problems and frustrations at home, then those unresolved feelings and issues will prevent you from developing fully into the person you need to be and enjoying college life to the best of your abilities. Go to college free of baggage from home, if that is at all possible. Then you can begin your college experience without any regrets and fears of repeating the same mistakes and you can continue to develop relationships from back home while you are away at school. No need to unnecessarily burn bridges and shut people out of your life.
Catessa
Knowing what I know about college life and making the transition, I would advise myself to take the ACT more than once before being accepted. Had I taken the ACT more than once i could've landed a better placement. I would also advise for me to stay focus
Brittany
I would definitely tell myself there is so much more to life than anything that happens in highschool- all the drama and trying to be somebody else or more popular- none of that matters. I was a level 10 gymnast and dreamed of doing it in college, but I ended up having to retire early, and it was terrible, but I see now how it has really made me much better and I have different dreams for my life other than a sport. I was given the oppurtunity to play soccer at a much smaller school, with no scholarship, but even with that I have learned so much. So I would also tell myself, if my plan does not work out, I know something better is in store for me, though it may be really hard time at first. You go through chapters in your life, and you have to give stuff up- that is just life! The real life is HARD! Worrying about money, jobs, relationships, food, etc.- enjoy living at home and not having many responsibilities while it lasts, because it will never be the same after you graduate high school! Don't worry- life goes on!
Alison
"College is absolutely one of the most fun, freeing, challenging, and dynamic times in your life. Soak up the challenges, academically and personally, as you begin questioning the beliefs, values, and ideals which you have previously felt to be foundational to your life. As you question these things, stay strong to that which truly matters to you, but also feel free to compromise occasionally. Stay strong academically, but feel free to compromise your time and your regimented planner for an occasional trip to Sonic, Wal-Mart, or Taco Bell. These times are when true relationships are formed through crazy, memorable moments. Stay strong morally, but feel free to compromise by not being so rigidly focused on your beliefs that you cannot be molded and changed by those who differ from you. Those who are different from you may only strengthen your former beliefs; others may help you develop and improve. Yes, obtaining and maintaining strong academics is important, but your memories with your friends are what will truly last when your transcript does not. Stay up until 2 or 3 in the morning laughing or crying, even if you have an 8:00 exam in a few hours.
Lindsey
Make a lot of friends, but choose them carefully. A reputation takes a lifetime to build and about five minutes to destroy.
Your professors know so much more than you do, so take advantage of that. Become friends with them and learn from them.
It's important to work hard in school, but save some time to have fun and learn who you are.
You have all the time in the world to date and get married, if that is what you choose. Don't let it get in the way of succeeding academically now.
Learning to get along with your roommate is a valuable life skill that you will need forever.
If you are not sure what you want out of life, try everything until you figure out what you like doing.
Laura
I would tell my self to get ready for change. I would also say to go out of my comfort zone.
Laura
There is something unique in the soul of each student, something that no one else can tell them about themselves. Listen to it.
There is some subject that drives every student, a subject in which you flourish and can't get enough of. Choose this major.
There is a specific atmosphere for every student, one that nurtures and gives life. Find your home.
When choosing the college for you, there are certain aspects that are important, such as the ability to prepare you for a career. For me, I knew that pleasing God with my life was the most important factor, so I prayed hard in order to choose the school where God wanted me. But when it comes to the particular details of a school, it's okay to go by instinct. Don't feel silly for listing among the pros or cons of a school, "the atmosphere". It may be vague, but feeling at home and feeling nourished is important if you want to thrive. Choosing a major simply because you have fun with the subject is perfectly alright. Nothing will motivate you more in school than classes that you can't get enough of.
Brittany
Study a little every day. Don't wait til the day before a paper is due to start working on it. Invest ALOT of time into friendships. Talk to your professors outside of class. Get involved with the campus community. Rely on Christ for everything. Pray.
Joshua
Make sure to visit the schools tha tthe student is interested in, that way they can get a feel for the school and get a layout of the land. It will also allow them to talk with some financial aid representatives to see about the money situation for the particular school. For the students, to make the most out of the college experience, they need to try new things, get involved, and be active. A good student is one who gets their work done, but they should also have a well develpoed social life, otherwise they will get burnt out and slowly break down. Some younger students may not be allowed to have vehicles, however there are plenty of older students who will be able to take a few people into town. The student should also explore the town and get to know the area as well while visiting the school, just to see what the community is like.
Whitney
Don't focus solely on what you're looking for educationally. Make sure the social aspect is what you're looking for also, because that will affect your grades. Whether it's too much socializing or too little, find what's right for you and let that effect your school choice. Also, if you're a first year college student, don't be in a rush to go straight to a four year university, especially if it's out-of-state, because you may spend money you needn't not spend yet. Use your community college wisely! Lastly, don't let academics bog you down. Stressing too much over them will make your experience at school unenjoyable. Take your time if you need to. Don't waste a moment.