Allyssa
My best words of advice to my high school self would be to believe in myself. When there is room for self-doubt there is room for defeat. College is the best time of your life but it is also a time for hardwork and sacrifice. No one is going to do the work for you, some people may be waiting for you to fail. There will be plenty of obstacles in your way but by keeping your goals in mind, your social life in check and by believing in yourself you can accomplish anything you set your mind to. A college education is a stepping stone into the real world. It is a way of preparing you for the difficulties and successes that lie ahead. It is a true journey of finding yourself and becoming the person that you want to be. Never be afraid to be yourself and stand by the ideas that you believe in. I have found in college and in life that being yourself and believing in yourself will take you all the places you desire to go.
Nermeen
In high school, I stressed out about both social and academic things such as having one pair of jeans for each day of the week or getting that 10 page paper done on time. Coming to college, I've learned that its alot better to appreciate lwhat you have in ife than to stress out over the meaningless things. We have so much to be grateful for and yet we seek more; its in our nature, so there's no blame. But I think that once in a while, its nice to just sit back, relax, and realize that life isn't about whether or not you have that new Ipod Touch or those Ugg boots. Life is how you live it, not what you live with. Take me, for example, I am a healthy 19-year old girl; I'm not seriously ill (or even a little sick at the moment), or in any way disabled. I have an amazing family and supportive friends; though we don't realize it, that is alot to be grateful for. If I could go back, I'd tell myself to stress alot less so that I can enjoy my life instead.
Michael
If I could talk to myself in high school, I would say, "Mike, find something new and exciting! Something real tasty!". I would reproach myself giving me a quizzical look and I would remind me that there is no grand prize in life. There is no blue ribbon for obtaining knowledge and understanding. There is only intrigue. Then I would say, "Mike, don't worry about appling to that CampusDiscovery scholarship in 2010, because I can predict the winning teams for every pro sports championship in the next four years!"
Melanie
I would advise myself to decide what career I want before entering college. Having this decision made before entering college would have allowed me to focus more during my freshman year and to select very specific classes. I would also tell myself to put extra effort into finding scholarships outside of what the university offers, as financial aid is difficult to obtain.
Mickey
When I was in high school, especially at the end of my senior year, there was peer pressure from friends for me to try alcohol or drugs. It got to the point where all of my friends would plan on weekends to get together and get drunk. I wasn't comfortable with this at the time, and I declined their invitations to join in the "fun". Therefore, if I could go back in time and give advice to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to stay true to my values and myself.
This is because in college the pressures would become even greater. Almost everyone I met in college would try to get me to drink with them, but I still wasn't ready. My adherence to my beliefs gave me courage; it made it easier to resist the temptations. It also gave me strength when my personal goals were threatened. My defiance towards everyone who told me that I would "get nowhere" in an English major increased my dedication to my dream of becoming a writer. Staying true to myself and my values has been the most important lesson I've learned in college.
Kae
Apply to more than one school. Don't disregard a state school just because it is a state school. Be prepared for roommate problems and find out ways to fix the problems before they start. Do all the work, even if its not being graded, and go to the 8 am recitations, even if there isn't a test. Make friends, lots of them. Leave your door and play music, people will come to say that they love or hate the band. Attend the dorm activities. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Seek out your professors and make sure that they know who you are and what your interested. Accept challenges, have fun, and try something new!
Lindsey
I'm 24 years old, have attended 4 different colleges and pursued 6 different majors. I have two jobs to support myself while going to school. I couldn't be happier with where I am, although it has been a long journey. My previous college experience makes me look fickle, but I know I'm traveling my true path. If I could talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell her to never stop exploring and being curious about the world. College is a great experience, but if you approach learning as a way of life, you will always be fulfilled. In high school, I didn't have great grades and wasn't encouraged to go to college. I wasn't ready. I would tell her that it's okay not to be ready for college right away. Back then, I wanted to be an artist, not a biology teacher. I discovered my love of science through my own research. Working helped me learn how to budget my time. Sometimes it takes a journey to find where you're meant to be. Don't waste time being afraid of failure. Go forth bravely, and find your passion.
KENLYNE
i would tell myself to really think about the amount of money college is, and that maybe i should look at a school in state vs out of state. i would remind myself the importance of an education, and that it's only 4 years.....and it goes by fast.
Kaitlin
look at all your options.
krystal
To make sure I visited every school I was applying to . Hearing somebody say they like a school doesn't mean that it is the right fit for you . If you follow your heart and see what school fits you best you won't go wrong.