Christine
I would tell myself to apply for more scholarships and to have gotten a second job. It is so expenzive going to school. I would also tell myself to not worry so much. It is a big change but to take it day by day. I would also tell myself to spend much more time with family. They are way more important than most of the things I did.
Victoria
The advice that I would give myself would be to take college life more seriously. My first semester at college I did not "hit the books" as hard as I could have and my grades reflected this. I passed all my classes, but that first semester grade report was a real eye-opener. I then realized that my instructors were intent on treating me as an adult and that I was responsible for my actions. If I failed I could blame no one but myself. I decided right then and there to work harder and succeed because I was spending money to take these courses and wanted to get everything that I could out of them. I attended classes more regularly and completed all my assignments on time. An unexpected surprise was that I was also able to find time to attend social functions at the university and have fun with my fellow classmates. I did not miss out on any of the "extras" that make college life a full and rewarding experience. And, incidently, I was on the honor roll nearly every semester over the next three and a half years and graduated with Honors.
Anna
As you always said, persistence is your greatest quality. Don't ever be discouraged by wondering if you are good enough, or if you will ever make any money. These things are not important. Your love of music, singing, and performing are the only things that you need to worry about in the future, the rest will take care of itself. Performance is a difficult major, and there will be times that you question your ability, drive, and talent. Remember that practice makes perfect and all you need to do is believe in yourself. You can become anything you want to be, and the proof is in your past. Not only have you overcome people telling you that you can't make it as a performer, but you have picked yourself back up again and showed the world by singing with a professional opera company as a high school student. Don't ever give up hope on your dreams. Your drive and persistence will see you through on any path that you choose. As Audrey Hepburn once said, "The most important thing is to enjoy your life - to be happy - it's all that matters."
Eileen
There is no rush to decide what you want to do! Explore your options, do job shadows or talk to academic advisors. Try to start with general classes that would be applicable to any major and maybe some that interest you. If you still are unsure, waiting a year or two to figure it out might be the best. That way, you are not discouraged at a "waste of time" and you feel more confident with your ultimate decision.
Living in the dorms is a must. I would also tell myself to try and step out of my comfort zone more- to be open to moving further away for example. College life is a difficult transition, but take it seriously and work very hard. Even if those "gen eds" don't seem important, they will come in handy. It is important to keep your grades up. Work hard and try to focus on the end result!
Kasie
Simply, even though I am only in my third year of study, I know I have already received a thorough and solid education from Viterbo. Through a combination of my own drive and determination and my wonderful and knowledgeable professors, I have been able to gain a better understanding of the world and societies that surround me. What is more, I am recognized for my education and academic drive. Viterbo makes it a point to instill a pride in its students regarding the work they are doing in the classroom.
In addition, attending Viterbo University has provided me with so many great opportunities. These opportunities include research, professional development, work experience, cultural experience, diversity, and freedom to make my own choices. Through these various opportunities, I have developed a more open mind, especially about other cultures, ethical viewpoints, religions, and economic situations, just to name a few. Without attending Viterbo, my horizons would not be as expanded.
Honestly, I cannot think of a better way to spend four years of my life than at a university as helpful, inspiring, and caring as Viterbo has been for me. Certainly, I will never forget or regret my experiences at Viterbo University.
Haylea
I feel like I have gotten a lot out of my college experience already and I am only in my sophomore year still. It has taught me even more responsibility and how to be independent and on my own. I have to take care of myself and all of the things I need to do for school. Also, continuing to play basketball has really helped as well. It has taught me a lot of leadership and hard work skills. Being there for my teammates and knowing I can depend on them as well is a great experience I have learned. All of this has taught me good time management skills too. I have to know when we have practice and games that I am committed to, but also make time for homework and projects as well. It has been so valuable to have learned all of this and proved to myself that I could do it too. I met a lot of new people along the way which has also added to all the fun. If I keep working hard I know it will be worth it because it's helping prepare me for the rest of my adult life.
Marissa
My college experience has taught me a variety of things; from the importance of studying to what happens when you put a non-microwaveable plate in the microwave. Not everything has been easy, but I certainly have learned from it all. The best thing that I have gotten out of this experience though, is that I have been reminded how important my family is to me. They were always there for me in high school, and when I moved to college it seemed as if they were here for me even more. "Just a phone call away!", my mom would always say. They were the ones who first encouraged me to go to college. They knew the value in it, as I also know now. My goal is to become a nurse someday. The only way for me to do that is to go to college and earn my degree. And even though the sleepless nights of studying seem hard to me now, I know that they will pay off in the end. I am truely blessed to have such a wonderful family behind me and the opportunity to pursue goal in college.
Cari
I am an incoming student this year so I haven't really had any college experiences yet.
Terry
to never give up on your dream no matter how bad high school was and how you enjoyed the times with your friends and hated teachers who made you feel like you need to give up on yourself where they tell you that " your not going to make it in life, if you don't try." just keep going because there's alot in the world who you dont know that have had teachers or even parents that made them feel like they needed to give up on themselves, but don't quit and tell yourself that this is your time to shine.
Amanda
I would tell myself to relax and that it is not as difficult as a transition as many think feel it will be. As long as you relax and study and do NOT procrasinate everything will work out just fine. Don't stress the small stuff. Everything will turn out just fine, and make sure you major in Psychology and Sociology. *smile* Don't worry because in all of your classes you turn out to receive grades that you are very happy with, and all in all just remember to not worry about tomorrow because tomorrow will take care of itself.