Florida International University Top Questions

WOW. If I were able to go back in time as a high school senior I would definately tell myself to research everything about the school of my choice and make sure it fits my guidelines (social life, tuition, location, etc) It's nothing worse than going to a school and finding it hard to co-exist or survive because of the severity of the problems that may occur. Also, I'd reseach a lot more scholarships that would be appliable for four yrs. It's really hard to finance college if you don't receive sufficient financial aid. I would definately go back in time and make sure that I inform myself of this vital information.

Self - College is not a slightly more difficult high-school. We didn't have a problem in HS because we managed to get by on brains alone. If you procrastinate in college, you will fail classes. Studying isn't just re-reading the notes, you have to remember to actually re-read the chapters, take more notes, get in study-groups, ask for help. It's harder than you expect it to be. It's awesome to be able to choose when your classes are, but don't get carried away. It's harder to wake up in the mornings especially if you've been up until 2 re-writing a paper. Take that into account since your grade drops if you miss too many classes. And on that note, just because you can skip, doesn't mean you should. Just be smart, Self. Don't take it lightly because scholarships do not carry over if your grades are not good and there are no guarantees. Ask for help (I know it's hard!). Make sure to plan accordingly, leave enough time to get to school in the morning, unplug from the Internet sometimes. Godspeed and good luck, Self. -Me

If I had known what I know now I would tell my high school self to stay living at home. Even though it would have meant living in another state and having to wait a year for financial aid to be available to me, at least I would not have suffered so much heartache and headaches. Living on campus was like trying to make ends meet. For the amount of money housing charges it is not worth it since you will not have enough money, if any, left over to pay for books. It becomes nearly impossible to find an on campus or even an off campus job that's close by. The only way to move around outside of school is by carpooling or having money for a bus, which you won't. It can get very lonely on campus even when surrounded by many. It will be a hard year with the passing of your grandmother and it is something you don't want to go through alone. The staff isn't very helpful and the teachers don't teach well enough for you to learn. Go somewhere else for Univeristy.

Any change or new opportunity has its pros and cons; education is key to ensuring a secure future in our competitive, globalized world. Although leaving home may be difficult for some, others may have no choice; attending a college or university is the next step in the lives of many, and is a process that I believe can be very intimidating. But don't be afraid to reach out for advice from a counselor or advisor. Money issues? Millions of dollars of scholarship money go unused each year!! Personally, I think local accredited institutions such as community colleges are a great place to start to get basic courses out of the way at low cost, close to home. This also allows the student to build confidence in their ability to accel in college, as it is quite a different pace and expectations as the typical high school may have. My advice: one step at a time (even if that means 1 class at a time) and find someone willing to hold your hand if the street gets too busy. Your education & your future are way too valuable; invest in yourself and take the first step.

I would tell myself that i don't have to go away to school to get the best experience. Also, to have fun and enjoy time at college and not get lost in my books, although my studies are very important. Get involved, learn, explore, and enjoy the years ahead, but never lose sight of my goals and aspirations as they will take discipline and hard work, but the reward will definately be worth it !

I would tell myself to volunteer in my preferred field of study because several individuals are aware of what they want to do and are moving in that direction. I would also say that college is not only a time to explore but also a time to find what one's passions and dislikes are but always keep in mind that you should always have a standard for yourself and never drop below that standard.

Realize that nothing in high school prepares you for college. You can shed your old image, friends, and hang ups and explore who you are. Realize that you are an adult, decisions you make affect the rest of your life. Money and financial planning is something that should be a top priority throughout your college career. Use the resources available to you - other class mates, professors, student organization, student services. Make connections with other people in the college community. Live it up because no other period in your life will ever be as free and adventurous.

Try harder in high school to be able to get accepted into a better college.

Be more motivated in what you aspire to acheive. College is tough and if you wish to make it through and make something of yourself you have to develop strict studying habits now. Look into scholarships early and make sure you have everything planned out ahead of time. Don't lose motivation!

I would convince myself to become more driven, both emotionally and academically, with my career choices, and most possibly kick myself into remembering there are faculty and staff that are both willing and able to help when help is needed. I would try to encourage myself to not just think about joining a sorority, but actually doing so if I could; and above all else, remind myself to slow down,just enough so that I can sit on the grassy hills of Florida International University and take in the reality that, yes, I'm an independent college student whose future is not only a dream, but an achievable possibility.