Christian
I have learned many things in college and overall found myself and what i would enjoy to do with me life and still helping people. It has been quite valuable to attend not only am I learning but I am making friends.
Ethan
So far I have begun to understand that, even though high school was so easy for me, college is a completely new level. It has taught me to be more responsible, and less of a procrastinator. It has reminded me that you get out of something what you put into it. Drury is an amasing school. I definaltely made the right choice.
Ryan
Being at Drury, I've learned that you should never close options off until you have explored them. Limiting yourself by not examining all options will leave you wondering and doubting months or years down the road. College and classes are an important choice, so wiegh every decision, dont jump into one even if you are dead set at first; examine all options.
Billie
Sitting here at my desk at 33 years old I wonder how much easier it would have been to go through college and not worry about supporting a family. I came from a single parent home with no college education in my future. If I could go back in time and talk to myself in high school I would say college IS in your future and this is what you need to do to get started. I would tell my younger self first of all that I will grow up to be a confident, outgoing woman so stop being so shy. I would help my younger self as if I were my own high school counselor. Finally, I would say to my younger self that I have a good life but it would have been soo much easier if I had someone helping me back then like I am helping you now. Life is hard and it's the little things that adds up that helps us the most. College is difficult so just do it and get it over with so you can enjoy the rest of your life doing what you love to do.
Ian
Dear Ian,
Strange, but true. I am "you" four years from now...a college senior. No, not high school senior. College senior. I am the future you---a few inches taller, a bit broader in the chest and shoulders, and immensely more mature. I know you're a bit arrogrant right now, thinking you don't need advice because you think you know all there is worth knowing. However, listen up...I can help smooth the way as you begin the next part of your educational journey. (And just for the record, as a seventeen year-old kid, you are not even in same zip code as "All Knowing.")
While you still have the "safety nets" called Mom and Dad, learn what works for you in the way of organization. Try different ways to keep up with your courses, your trumpet practice, your schedule. A college your parents won't be keeping you on track...You have to do that yourself.
Also, when friends get stuck without any hope of college, make sure to keep in touch whenever you're home on break. They'll keep you grounded and appreciative (and they'll continue to be good friends).
Love,
Ian
Sky
One: DON'T PANIC. And two: It's okay to be clueless! Don't be afraid to ask all of these questions before you get here; I know you think the American School System sucks (and you'd be right), but if you don't know the answers, and you can't get them from the books or the teachers or anyone else, go look them up elsewhere. Stop being afraid of everything and go learn what you want to learn, no matter what you have to do to get it. The world isn't obligated to tell you everything you want to know, and nor are you entitled to make them tell you. If you want something so badly, stop hiding behind things and go get it!
(Also, the food's great. Note to self: take a yoga class so you won't have such violent thoughts towards bad roomates and kids with too much time and money on their hands.)
Two jobs and people to take care of is only the beginning of Dante's Inferno, but if you thought that book was actually FUNNY, then I promise you - it will get better. It's worth it.
Stephanie
Stephanie, life is not always what you expect nor is it always what you want. When you take the ACT relax and do not let the stress bog you down. You are unique and your opinions are worthwhile. Everyone in the world is different despite some all too apparent similarities. When you apply to colleges do not procrastinate and be sure to show your passionate side. Apply for more scholarships than you think necessary because what you think is ample is not adequate. Expenses will pop up and surprise you around every corner.
Once you get to college call your parents, this may sound clich? but they miss you and you may not admit it but you will miss them too. You will learn that not every family is like yours. But do not be afraid of meeting new people, in fact embrace the opportunity. Throughout the semesters people around you will constantly be changing their majors but do not feel pressured to do the same. If you find what you absolutely love do not give it up. Although lucrative, being a doctor may not be right for you. Another clich? but utterly important, be yourself because you deserve it.
chelsee
The advice I would give myself is, get serious. In high school it feels as if you are going to be there forever, so you goof off and do not take things seriously. In college however, you cannot do that. You have to be able to buckle down and get things done without someone constantly pushing you to do so. Being self reliant is key.
Amanda
Having the ability to talk to myself as a high school senior, I would say that college is a great experience, and if you just be yourself and try new things, you will make the best of it. Every other freshman around you is going through the same thing, and making friends is not as hard as you think. Don't hold back, accept challenges and be honest...nobody likes a liar. Remember that you are a beautiful person, inside and out, and people will eventually accept you for who you are. Although you will not agree with what everyone has to say all the time, be open and listen. Have respect for others and don't create unneccessary conflict. Enjoy your education, you are definitely paying enough for it! Also, ask questions and try your hardest to keep up! Procrastination is the worst disease to have. College is a time to enjoy, and it WILL go by quickly. FInally, love yourself and others, don't take advantage of people and have the time of your life! :)
Johana
I would let her know that despite how hard things may be at times, that there will always be an upswing. Life has its share of both good and rotten events. Some of these events can be avoided by making good or timely decisions, and some are unavoidable and must be endured like a bad storm. But no matter how harsh things may seem, the important thing is to not give up and try to always look on the bright side of life. This is not something that is always easy to do, but nothing worth having is easy to obtain.
I would also tell her that she is worth more than she thinks she is, that there are people who care about her, and want her to be happy. Even though she will meet some people that should ultimately be avoided, that there are many others who are more deserving of her friendship. These people will help her gain more confidence, help her succeed, and put her on the right path of life. It's easier than it seems to fall off the wagon, but it's never too late to hop back onto it.