isabella
If I could go back in time, I would give myself a few points of advice.
1. "Don't mess up and be serious about school. Don't wait to go to college." I would give this advice because I took a year off and I didn't relize how hard it would be to get back on track. I made the mistake of starting to look four months later than I should have.
2. "You should seriously think before you act. Just focus on life and the future." I got in trouble in senior year and that affected my ability to learn and study.
3. "Be sure that you have people who support you and do not give up. Belive in yourself and your abilities; when you put your mind to it you can succed." I thought I wasn't going to make it, but I had support from people who cared and that made me believe in myself.
4. "Push yourself to the limit in order to succeed. There are obstacles in life, and they're diffucult, but with the right help you will make it." This is the most important, because it takes dedication to succeed.
Derrick
Why would you change anything, your perfect? Isn't that what you tell yourself in the mirror every morning? What could you possibly learn from me? Kid I'll tell you what, life is a cold bitch if your not ready for what is coming your way, and your not even close. When did ditching class become cool, and when did you start to care more about what you drove to class, than what drove you to excell. When did you loose sight of it all? Kid I'll tell you what, your not ready, its time you got a job, its time you took an interest in your community, its time for you to wake up and do something. When your ready, get yourself a cup of coffee, becuase we have a lot of work to do, go hit the books, go ace that test, go study for next weeks class now. Becuase, if you don't, in two years from now you'll be right back where you started, nowhere. What are you waiting for a new dawn is breaking, and a new day is upon you ,take it, and live the good life.
Danielle
If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to simply relax and absorb as much information as I could. I was stressed about the college process, finding a school to go to, adapting to the lifestyle, and all of the financial aspects about college. However, now that I have started school and adapted tremendously I realize that I stressed out way too much and that I also did not pay as much attention to information about college as I should have. I didn't worry too much about scholarships until it was too late. I had been told about how much money was out there but never really listened, but this year I know more about applying for scholarships and where to look for them, something which I am definitely taking advantage of. I would also warn myself on just how much fun college really is. There are tons of people to meet who are all looking for new friends, which makes the process very easy and the whole concept an immediate bonding process. I would simply tell myself relax, listen, and enjoy.
Jami
If I could go back in time to talk to myself as a high school senior, first off I would tell myself to cherish every moment of playing sports because I miss it terribly. I would say to enjoy being part of a team even if you dont get along with them because you can't get that back once it's gone. For my career aspirations, I would tell myself to go and work for a veterinarian as soon as possible because experience is valued and it will be easier to get a job. I would also say to spend more time with your family, because you wont get to see them as much and even though you want to go hang out with your boyfriend, its more important to spend time with your family. Furthermore, I would also say to pick some better choices for prizes at grad night so you wont go have to buy the things you could have gotten for free. Lastly I would tell myself to cut down the shopping because your going to need that money for more important things!!!
Kathleen
You are going to change. Once you get into college, you're surrounded by new people with new ideas. You get the chance to take classes and learn about things that might ultimately change the way you think about the world. Don't be ashamed of that. College is a wonderful time to break free from your parents and and your friends. It gives you a chance to challenge your own ideas and find the things that you really care about.
However, you also have to take responsibility for this new you. Don't throw your manners and your morals away the second your parents drive away. It's easy to get caught up in all of your new found freedom. It is ok to act like a kid every once and a while, but realize that people are going to expect you to act like an adult. Your parents aren't around to tell you right from wrong. You have to figure that out for yourself.
Ann
Never take anything for granted. There is too much in the world that is not appreciated until its too late, never be afraid to take a chance. Work hard and love your friends as well as respect those with whom you face adversity. Find time to do what you love and share your passions with others.
Katelyn
If I could go back a year ago to when I was a senior and give myself advice, I would tell myself that in college I have to study much longer and harder, it is not like high school in where you can attend and pass. I woud also give myself the advice that 8 am classes are not the best option. I would tell myself this but about the school work but I would also tell myself to not be afraid. Last year I was really nervous and apprehensive about moving away from home, so if I could go back, I would tell myself that everything will be fine. That I will adjust really well and even become involved in a sorority, Kappa Delta, and that I make wonderful new friends and sisters! The last bit of information I will tell myself is to have fun and really enjoy college life, go out there and live! College life only happens once, it is a time to cherish!
Katie
Be prepared for the shock of moving out of your familiar environment and into a whole new world. Take the apartment living class and pay attention to learning how to live on your own. Take into account how far from home you will be and how easy it will be to be able to get home once in a while.
Valerie
College life is very different from high school; in many was its better. Living in the dorms allows for freedom of movement through campus easily as well as a way to meet people and network with some of the people who will be going through school with you. Stepping out of the proverbial shell is very important and once you have a solid support group both academics and the social side of college become easier.
Being successful in college is very important, as it will shape any future jobs and/or careers. Joining study groups and going over lecture notes is very important. This is a sure way to be successful in the classes. Also, go to class and do not be too shy to ask the professor questions. They appreciate your interest in the topic and are there to help you. To balance academics join a club such as an intramural sport, fraternity, or simply find a way to do something you enjoy with a group of people, such as music.
College is a time to try new things and find who you want to be, but don?t feel pressured to try anything that makes you feel uncomfortable.
Ashlyn
If I could go back in time, I would tell myself that college life is a lot different than high school. You're working at your own pace; there's no teachers or principle to push you to finish your schoolwork and pass your classes. I'm going to college because I want to earn a higher degree of education. But it takes a lot of discipline and self-instruction. I must be motivated and dedicated to get through all the courses. I am at college because I WANT to be. No one is forcing me. It is my choice to take my education seriously and strive to complete the work. Thus, I would need to prepare myself and ask myself if I am truly willing to do something with my life. It won't be easy, but learning is an experience in itself. I would tell myself to take enjoyment in what I am learning and strive to complete my goals with enthusiasm. If this is what I really want to be and want to study, then I must work at it. I must give all I have and never even think about giving up.
Lauren
I would have prepared myself more. I don't think high school prepares you for college that well and being independent and on your own. High School still treats students as children and doesn't give them any responsibility. If High School had given us more freedom and allowed us to make our own decisions and learn from our mistakes I would have been more prepared. Also, to take college very seriously and know that you are deciding your future but you don't have to know what you are doing right away, not many 18 year olds do.
Kariane
If I was given the opportunity to talk to myself as a high school senior, I would definitely have some advice. I was fortunately able to handle the workload transition from high school to college so I'd assure my younger self that it won't be as scary as people make it out to be. One thing I didn't focus enough on in high school that could've helped me out more in college is my involvement with my community and my school. I was heavily involved with my high school's German exchange program and marching band but not much else. I'd suggest to my high school self that for senior year to start participating in regular community service and be more involved with my school organizations would help me feel more eager and open to joining the many clubs and communities offered on Colorado State's campus. I've been a little hesitant but have branched out significantly since I started college. I'd smile at my younger self and say, "Don't be afraid, because you have an amazing journey ahead of you and you need to relish every moment!"
Erin
You should choose your career based on what you find enjoyable. Everyone working in the professional world spends a considerable amount of time at their office. Make sure that whatever college/major you chose, you enjoy what you graduate with. Ensure that you really apply yourself, even if that requires many hours of work and sacrifice to get there. A little more time spent now, will pay off in the end. I graduated with a degree because I was told that a 4-year degree was necessary by my parents, but I didn't choose something that I found rewarding. I am now going back to get the degree that interests me. I will be spending another 2 years trying to acheive something that I am proud to do. In the end I will know that this is what I want, and not what someone else wants for me. I have found a niche that I am good at, and that I want to spend the rest of my life doing.
Garrett
If I could go back to my senior year, I would have talked alot more with my couselor at my high school to get a better understanding of scholarship, grants and what classes I should apply for first so I would not waste my time on classes that I did not need. I would make sure as a senior I have taken as many college prep classes as I could handle instead of taking less classes my senior year. I was a 4.3GPS honor student and just assumed I would get a full ride. Surprise it does not work that way so I am paying for my own schooling now. I should have been better prepared.
Courtney
Ever since my admission and first few months as a freshman college student, I have fequently been asked what advice I would give others who are on their way into entering college. The same advice that I would give to those below me, is the same advice that I would give myself if I were able to go back in time. The solution to a successful college career is not some drawn out complicated explination, it is simple and logical. It is nothing more than to get involved with the school and to place yourself in an area that interests YOU personally. If you can find a group, club, organization or major that makes you happy and really sparks an interest within you, your college experience will be multiplied in success. Having that one thing that you can turn to when you are wanting to get away from the stresses of school and bring a smile to your face will make all the difference. It will also allow you to feel as though you are apart of something and not alone in this huge new world you have just been thrown into. I regret not beoming apart of something everyday!
Calli
Hey high school Calli, this is college Calli.
I just wanted to let you know, college is an amazing experience if you let it be! Don't spread yourself too thin and do your very best at everything you're involved in. You know that second job you're thinking you can handle? You can't, school is so important and money is not, some people can work twenty hours a week and take sixteen credits, not you and me.
CSU has more than twenty four thousand students, you have choices so pick your friends wisely, they have a big impact on the way you spend your life outside of class.
A warning about homesickness, it's not fun, but it'll pass; you will survive your first semester.
Work hard, get to know your professors (they're pretty cool), sleep well, eat healthy, and have fun!
Jennifer
If I could go back to senior year, I would change how I viewed my schoolwork. As a senior, I was more focused on obtaining a social life, and less worried about making it into a university. As a freshman, I studied hard for every test, and strived for perfect grades, but as a senior, I was more worried about getting a date for prom than my grades. This carried over into my college studies, and my freshman year of college was poorly executed. If I maintained my studious habits, I could have maintained my stellar GPA and started my first year of college in the same manner. Of course, a social life is key to a balanced life, but spending too much time partying in high school could have cost me my standing with Colorado State University. Just be careful.
Rosie
"So, Rosie, are you ready for your first year of college?" I asked my younger self.
With an anxious look in her eyes, Rosie replied, "I guess... But I'm worried about living in the dorms and adjusting to life on campus. I love my family so much; I think it will be hard to be away from them."
I gave my younger self a knowing smile.
"I can understand that. I remember my freshman year; my first week was nerve-racking ? not knowing anyone and attempting to find my classes on campus.?
Rosie apprehensively bit her lip. I grinned at her encouragingly.
?If you?re worried, why don?t you join a campus community? I joined CSU?s Key Service Community my freshman year and the people there helped me adjust to life on campus.?
?Hmm? You know, that sounds interesting. So it helped you feel more a part of CSU?? Rosie inquired.
?Yup. Not only did I receive academic assistance from my mentors, but I also developed relationships with my fellow Key members. It was like having a large family!?
A small smile spread across my younger self?s face.
?I?ll look into it, then. Thank you.?
Zach
If I could go back in time and give myself advice on entering a college lifestyle, I would have told myself to relax. I spent way too much time as a senior, stressing out and feeling intimidated by college. I was afraid that I was going to have problems fitting in and I was worried that my classes were going to be way too far out of my league. It turns out that in my first semster of college I ended up creating several great friendships and I did very well in all of my classes. Knowing what I know now, I would go back in time and tell myself to calm down. College is a great opportunity and a great experience. My first semster was no less than perfect and everything went far better than expected. Had I known college was going to be this great as a senior, then I would have saved myself a lot of unnecessary stress.
Abby
Go for it. Live like you'll never live again, ask questions like you're the only one in the room and give every assingment your best effort. Don't afriad to be creative, don't be afraid to meet people, don't worry if you won't find a passion, a boyfriend, a group of friends in time. There is always enough time. Take all sorts of classes in the beginning. Find out what makes your heart flutter and your scalp prickle with excitment. Run on that treadmill next to that skinny girl, dive into that scrimmage soccer game even if you stink at it, cheer louder than the guys surrounding you. Go to parties, be assertive, don't be embarassed about who you are or who you might be. Just be.
Enjoy the learning process that college is and use it to learn. This is the time to test the waters of your future.