Melissa
I began my college journey in 2002 after graduating high school. After my first semester I made the decision to take some time off. In 2005 I decided to grab life by the horns and take control of my future by registering for the fall semester. It was the best decision of my life. I have gained extensive knowledge in areas such as marketing, business law, health, and economics among other subjects. I have learned that it is okay if I don?t comprehend something the first time. I took Statistics three times and finally passed on the third attempt. Passing Statistics gave me a sense of empowerment. I never thought I would make it through that class but I did it. I have gained extreme satisfaction in knowing that I have been able to accomplish each and every class while also working full time. Time management has never been my strong suit. College has taught me how to manage my time and it has been an invaluable asset to have. A price cannot be put on my college education. Without it I may not be able to achieve all that life has to offer.
Hannah
Although only currently a freshman, I have gained many skills, and invaluable knowledge at Georgia State University. Since Georgia State is located in downtown Atlanta, it is easy to let yourself get distracted by the energy of the city or loose sight of your goals as a student. Attending Georgia State University has pushed me to develop effective time management skills and a level of independence that allow me to feel confident living in a large city and succeeding at a competative university. For instance, I have found that making lists are a very effective way to prioritize assignments, chores or errands to make sure that everything gets done and that everything gets done on time. Also, I have gained a sort of "academic stamina" that allows me to pace myself for the long hours of study time that are required to succeed at Georgia State. Georgia State has played a key part in my maturation associated with the transition between a high school child and a collegiate adult.
De'Aunta'
I have learned that it is always vital and important to me the specific times for deadlines. It has been quite a struggle trying to pay for college and not having much support however, determination is also needed to be successful. I have also learned that no one will help you with your needs if you do not first help yourself.
Maria
For all of the complaining that I have done about Georgia State University - for every time I felt discontent or frustration - I must be fair and say that I could not have enjoyed such a wealth of formative experiences anywhere else. GSU allowed me to receive a bachelor's degree without going into debt. GSU allowed me to spend a year abroad in France to receive language certification, also for free. GSU allowed me to grow - both academically and personally - without having to worry about money.
Attending GSU has been a great gift. Due to financial reasons, I may not have been able to go to college straight out of high school. Now, almost five years after I first stepped foot on campus, I am prepared to study for my master's degree. My knowledge, experience, and eagerness would not have been at the level they are now had I not studied at GSU.
Rachel
Although I have only been a student at Georgia State University for a little more than one semester, I have gotten a lot out of the experience. First and foremost, I have taken on a lot of responsibility by being a full-time student and part-time waitress. This has helped me to efficiently prioritize my time to get the most out of school and work. Secondly, I have been forced to go out and meet new people that I would not ordinarily meet in my small hometown of Rome, GA. It feels refreshing to be in a completely new environment with brand new people because that in itself is a learning process. Lastly, I have learned not to take school for granite because having a degree allows you to go so far. College is beneficial to anyone, but I personally love Georgia State Univeristy because it has taught me more than just academics. For the first time ever I have school spirit.
Alexis
As a high school senior, I was a complete nervous wreck. The thought of going to a completely new place like college gave me anxious chills and worries. However, if I were able to talk to myself as a high school knowing what I know now, I would simply advise myself to be calm. The transition to college life was not as horrifying as I had initially imagined. At first, it was difficult to manage my newfound independence while maintaining good grades; however, as long as one keeps their dedication to their education intact, one's priorities become quite clear. College is a great place to establish one's independence away from home and cultivate a broader understanding of the world.
Solis
Could I go back in time and talk to myself as a highschool senior, I'd tell myself to do much more research on my possible majors and the types of departments they consisted of. By this I mean, "How new is this department? Will the faculty give me what I need academically? " I may have also taken a semester off before I started college. In retrospect, I feel I jumped into college immediately because that was the standard, but I would have liked to sit down and ask myself "Is this really what I want to do?"
Steven
First research the schools that you are interested, find out everything from the costs to the courses, and even the organizations on campus. one thing i've learned is that one should be as knowledgeble as one can when selection a college. it's always good to keep in mind the things that you are interested in or like to do. Secondly, one must become an extrovert. visit the campus(es), speak with current students and/or faculty members, get phone numbers, e-mails, try your best to have contact with people. be sure to do your fafsa in the beginning of the year, financial aid is crucial when selecting a possible college. Be optimistic, most of the college professers or more than willing to aid a student in any way that they can so never be to shy to ask for help. UTILIZE THE LIBRARY!!! there are so many resources and the library is a great place to focus and get things done. Lastly, enjoy yourself, take pictures, participate in different events, make friends, and try to end each day with a smile and a hope that the next day can be just as good!
Nina
If I could go back in time and give myself advice of when I was a senior I would tell myself what a lot of obvious things that people told me everyday. I would tell myself to study more and pay less attention about how I dressed and materialistic things because once you go to college it doesn't matter anymore. I would have tried to do a few more extracurricular activities so I could get more scholarships to help pay for school. I would tell myself to continue with good study habits because once you reach college, no one spoon feeds you what you need to know. Reading through text and picking out points that are important is a wonderful skill to have. The professors don't give study guides and review them over with you and those questions won't be exactly the same on the test as they were in high school. If I could go back in time I would try tell myself to stop trying the "find myself" because that comes a lot easier once you go to college.
Ki'ara
As a high school senior, one does not know what to expect in their near future. After making that transition into college, now in my second semester, there are quite a few things that I would tell myself. I would emphasize how important it is to get involved on campus. As a student, you are always told to make yourself marketable, but of course it is not really clear as to "why." Depending on one's situation, that transition can be very difficult. While it is important to always maintain good grades, having a social life is what really gives you that "college" experience. Stay in touch with family members and close friends.Never let go of relationships because of a change in environment. Order your textbooks early! And make as many friends as you possibly can. I do not regret any of my experiences so far while I've been in college. On the other hand, these few words of advice would have helped tremendously!