Rebecca
The most poignant piece of advice that I can think of is that you have to attend your classes. Even if you think you'll just fall asleep and won't retain any of the information--just GO. I wish that I had not started skipping classes because my college career would have gone so much smoother. I am happy to be graduating and applying to Graduate school, but my GPA would be significantly better if I hadn't missed classes and hurt my grades. All I did was shoot myself in the foot, even if I did keep limping along. Also, since I had family to live with, I'd have just stayed there instead of moving out. It would have been far better financially if I had. Student loans will be exciting to pay off once everything is all said and done.
Jennifer
Make connections, get to know your professors and classmates. Life after college is all about who you know and the more people who can speak to your character and work ethic are the people who can help you network (which can lead to potential employment).
Natalie
If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, the most important thing I would tell myself is that balance is key to success in college. My Freshman and Sophomore years, I had a hard time balancing my social life with my course load. Because of this, I rarely participated in any fun activities and spent most of my time studying. I received excellent grades, however I regretted not having more fun and learned this year that I can have fun and still get really good grades.
Samantha
Simply remember to get others to talk about themselves more than you talk about your self; oh and don't let sex, precence or lack, be a big distraction, be comfortable with your desiers (in and out of the "bed room") what ever they may be.
Lisa
Dear Lisa,
In my second year at Colorado State, I have some advice that will make your experience the best it can be as you enter this exciting phase in your life. When you arrive, don't be afraid to introduce yourself to other students! Everyone is in the same boat, and this is a great opportunity to meet new, interesting people! Become familiar with the campus and services that are offered to students. There are people available to help you with writing papers, finding jobs, editing your resume, and help you get involved! It is easy to feel overwhelmed in the beginning; just be sure to stay on track with your classes, and try to get the most out of every course you take. The most valuable advice I can give to you is to get involved in a student organization you are interested in and passionate about. You will meet other students with similar interests, and build strong relationships, as well as gain valuable leadership skills. Most importantly, appreciate the time you have here; college is a unique experience, and it is up to you to make the most of it!
Alisha
Now is the time to try all the things you never thought you could. You are going away to college; away from your parents, your high school nemesis and the shadow of your big brother. Now is the time to experiment with the things that scare you. Join a recreational soccer team on campus and learn, finally, how to kick a ball. Prove to your mother that girls CAN kick a ball. Love every sweat-filled moment and afterward, when it's over, hug your teammates and revel in the friendships that have grown so easily. From one heart-pounding, fearful decision to join a team, reaching out into the unknown, you will find the sweetest part to be the easiest. You will develop friendships that will last you a lifetime, and you will gain confidence you never knew you possessed.
As you embark on your journey, remember to try the things that scare you, and break out of the mold of your childhood. The experiences you will gain and the beautiful relationships you develop are worth the fear and anxiety of the unknown.
Taylor
I would tell myself to develop better study habits to prepare me more for college. I would also tell myself to start practicing seperating my social and acedemic life so that they dont interfere too much and cause problems.
Kelsey
?Take a deep breath and walk through the door. It?s the beginning of your very first day.? This line from a Taylor Swift song is what I would tell myself if I could talk to my senior self. Senior year was a blur of anticipation, deadlines, pressure, goodbyes, and decisions. I was excited to be done with high school and to be moving on in my life. I couldn?t wait to burst out of the doors of my high school yelling ?good rid-ins? and to celebrate my graduation. Due to this intense and sometimes fidgety excitement and anticipation, I did not do as well as I know I could have when it came to the college process. Procrastination caught up to me in deadlines and added layers of pressure. I did not apply for as many school as I had wanted, and did not get as much financial aid as I had needed. By telling myself these seventeen words I would hope to relay the message to slow down, take it all in, and relax. Do what is needed step by step, and do not panic. College is a big deal but can be tackled with composure.
Jessica
To be prepared for college life you have think about more than just the academics that the school offers. If you choose a school that is not the right fit for you, then you will not reach your maximum potential and spend lots of time wondering how to fix that. I went to Auburn University for my first year and even though I loved the classes there was something missing. Luckily, I found Colorado and they offer a lifestyle that matches my personality. My best advice is to follow your gut and do what you love.
Litto
Be focused, don't get distracted. Professors will not be babysitting you so you will have to be responsible to get every homework done on time. No excuses.