University of Maryland-Baltimore County Top Questions

The number one piece of advice I would give myself as a high school senior would be to take your time. There?s a pressure that?s put on students, whether intentionally or unintentionally, to finish college in four years. I think putting this time limit on students is unfair because some majors, such as chemistry, require more credits towards a degree than most. In addition, it is not at all helpful to pile on classes in an attempt to finish on time and then performing mediocre because you did not have enough time to dedicate to each class. Furthermore, college is one of the most enjoyable experiences of your life. It pays to make sure that you are utilizing every opportunity provided by your school and to take the time to relax and enjoy the experience since no matter what, you will only be in college for a limited amount of time.

Personally, I would say that my senior year in high school was one that went very well. If I were to go back in time I would want to go back to my freshman year. Balancing athletics and school was very tricky, and something I took extremely lightly. As a senior, I realized that my freshman year defined everything about me, and at the same time I knew that I would be placed in the same predicament if I didn?t focus and learn to balance my time. Going back to myself as a Senior I would tell myself that college is entirely different then described and balancing friendships and school work becomes even more difficult. It?s not all parties and fun, but a lot of dedication. My biggest advice to myself would be to never let anyone distract you, or discourage you. Those individuals that are true to you will be by your side every step of the way, whether it be aiding you or giving you your space to allow you to finish your work.

Have fun, but not to much. There's nothing wrong with celebrating the fact that you are out of your parent's house and are more independent but remember, there are consequences. Enjoy the now but never let the future slip out of your mind. "Planting seeds," is a good way to help yourself out. Set up plans of interests and events that may not help you immediately but will benefit you down the line. Never call out or weasel your way out of things, in order to do what you want later in life always be the one teachers and employers see as the independet who is always there and ready to help, knowing people can only beneit you. Just do your best at whatever you apply yourself to and always, always be open to other's opinions. You don't have to agree with them but always acknowledge others and keep an open mind to what they say, you don't know what life has dealt to them than differs from you. Enjoy your time and new life style but don't squander it and use your time wisely so you can reach your full potential.

I have often wished I could go back to my senior year of high school and prepare for college differently. If I could go back in time and talk to my high school senior self, I would have a lot of advice to give her. First, I would tell her to develop stronger study habits and discipline in order to handle the rigors of college academic life. I wouldn't have let her continue to assume that college academics are nearly on par with high school academics. Secondly, I would've told her of the great importance of time management in college. I would've strongly encouraged her to strengthen her time management skills as much as possible. And, last but not least, I would've warned her of the dangers of peer pressure in college. I would've urged her to not care what her peers think and avoid doing things just because she wants to fit in or be considered cool. And, I would encourage her to take advantage of all of the educational and cultural activities in and around campus and avoid wasting too much money on trivial pursuits, such as clubbing and shopping.

Before I went to college, I had no idea what to expect from college life. I was extremely worried about my roommate and meeting people. I was excited to be moving on from high school , but anxious as to what this new transition would hold. The best advice I would give to my high school self would be to not take things so seriously and not to worry. I would say that every college freshman is in basically the same position and everyone is just as nervous as you are. Everyone is concerned about how they will be viewed, meeting people, and maintaining good grades. My life has worked out well in the past three years, I made unforgettable friendships and memories, and I have maintained a 3.83 gpa throughout college. So, all the worrying was completely unnecessary. I would also tell myself not to worry about who I am and what I want, that over the four years of college I will grow and be an entirely new, more mature person with goals, ideals, and values that are quite clear. College is meant to be both a fun and academic experience, where you learn who you really are.

College life is just as the teachers tell you. Even though you may not believe them now, believe everything you hear. College is a whole lot more challenging than high school is. Even though your breezing through all your classes now, I really suggest you listen and pay close attention to everything thats being taught, especially your senior year. Studying, I know was never something you did or thought you needed, well listen here, that's probably the most important thing in college. And when the teachers tell you, you need to learn how to be responsible, their right. In college, everything is left up to you. They give you a syllabus on the first day and that's pretty much it. You may seem like the smartest in the bunch now, but when college rolls around everyone sitting around got accepted into the same college, and is just as smart as you. Just remember, college has no room for slacking off!!

Apply to evey college you think you might want to go to even if you don't think you'll get in.

Balance. The main thing in college is to understand you have to have a balance. It is a time and place that allows to you experience many different sides of yourself, both academically and socially. If you are going to a public university, it is possible that the network of organizations and academic clubs around you is so diverse you may not know which to choose. Do not be paralyzed by the bounty of options that lay in your path. The best thing for you to do is to pick a point in the distance, any point, and stick with it. If that vision or goal does not manifest itself in a way that you like, drop it. This is the time to be flexible and brave, your teachers and your peers will always give you that extra wiggle-room. Be sure to have fun! College culture is unique, and only once you leave it do you realize what a bubble it can be. But flourish in that bubble! Know that the connections you make here, the professors you befriend WILL have a lasting impact on you as a person and on your future.

1/21/2010 Diary, Usually I write about the events of today but tonight I'm writing about the events of tomorrow. I thought I would come back to give myself a guide for college because soon I will be on campus and who better to help me but me?! First, relax, there's no need to worry about going to school. Your guidance counselor can help you every step of the way so don't hesitate to ask for help. Now the best way to get ready for your first semester of school is easier said than done: have fun! When school starts you will spend plent of time studying so enjoy the summer shopping for dorm necessities and going out with friends. Finally, you're on campus all you must do now is leave your room. There's a world of opportunities on campus from social activities to study groups and you can't join from your bed. But remember that school is for study so be careful to manage your time wisely. With supportive professors and motivated classmates you'll see that you aren't in this alone and if you ask for help someone will answer.

If I could go back and give myself any advice, I would tell myself to read the textbooks. At community college I would maybe skim the text, or not have acess to the book because I was sharing it with others. Now I buy all required text and read it (once, if not twice!). Reading the assigned text results in a better grade, seriously. I would also tell myself to not worry about my high school friends. When most all of my friends left me behind to go to "real" college, I found that I was lonely and a little angry. I soon realized that community college is no different than a university, and that it was the right choice for me. I was able to play soccer for the school, make new friends and grow as a student and a person.