Raynie
Senior year truly does move the fastest, and as nice as that sounds, it is also very frightening. You have to do your homework and pay attention in class, I know you’re ready to graduate, but slacking makes everything a lot harder. DO NOT hang around the wrong kids, and by that I mean do not do drugs or party, the consequences are not worth the hour of fun. Senior year is even worse with no freedom. Read the emails that the school sends and do not be afraid to talk to the guidance counselor, even if she forgets that you even exist, sometimes you have to take the initiative. Apply to colleges right away, apply for financial even sooner, and apply for the scholarships offered to you by the community. Searching for scholarships elsewhere is not as easy as it sounds, and free money is always worth the extra effort. All in all, try hard, have fun, and stay true to who you are!
Victoria
First of all I'd tell myself not to worry so much! Everything will be fine, just breathe. I'd tell myself and other seniors to make sure you manage your time properly. You have to study for so many things in college that it is important to get your homework and essays done quickly. Start studying at the beginning of the semester so you won't drive yourself crazy during midterms and finals. I'd want myself to know that it's okay to ask for help; from professors or tutors or RAs. When life gets stressful, it's good to have friends you can talk to. I'd tell myself to talk to more people, especially in my house. You are going to be living with these people for almost a year so you should make good friends with them. Lastly I'd tell myself not to worry because you'll be okay. You will find yourself here; so just breathe.
Hugh
When I graduated from high school I was truly convinced that I wanted to be an artist, creating computer and three dimensional movie graphics for a living. It was not until I jumped into that world and began working towards that goal full time that I determined that I enjoyed being an artist far more when I did not depend on my craft to make my living. Going back in time I would remind myself that I am young, with all of the time in the world, take some time to experience at least five totally different lines of work to determine the lines of work that you do or do not want to go into, it may surprise you to find where your interests lie when there's a practical application associated with what you're learning. I found that I liked art more as a hobby than a profession, I hated waiting tables, I have no talent for construction or painting, although I enjoy both for short periods of time but I have a surprising passion for medicine. Sometimes life takes you on the roundabout way to find the things that you are truly passionate about.
Vanessa
The story I’d tell high school me about the college transition is one of hope and responsibility. I’d say:
High school is such a worrisome time for you now, but acceptance and expansion are on the way. You’ll meet new people from new places and what strength that will bring to you will astound you. You’ll be embraced for who you are and enhanced for who you are not, both by peers and professors.
But despite your new friends and trusted mentors, you have the right and responsibility to stand up for yourself, to take care of yourself. College away from home is the time you learn who is truly responsible for you: you. Everything mom nags you about ad-nauseam? She’s right to remind you. Because amidst this newfound freedom and opportunity, experience and wonder, might come a lost grip on the important stuff. Nourish yourself, protect yourself, be your own advocate and have your own back. Stay true to yourself while welcoming in new possibilities. That balance will save you.
Oh, and focus on your work. Study something that makes your heart beat fast.
Scarlett
Start building credit sooner so it can be easier to get a student loan. The sooner you start scholarship applications the better, so please stop procrastinating because college isn't cheap. Also rethink the having a red car and choose black or something because the red apparently attracts a lot students who like to key cars. Also remember that college work isn't like high school work and you should definitely start projects and papers in more advance than you usually would. Please listen to this because it'll make your life a lot easier in the long run.
Lindsay
If I could turn back the clocks and talk to my senior self I would have quite a bit to say. The major being to not get down when you find those rejection letters in your mailbox; they do not matter. Another being to not be afraid of trying to find that dream school that you've wanted since you were a little girl; it's right in front of you. And finally to not be afraid to leave some people behind to follow your dreams; if they care, they'll understand. That acceptance letter is on its way with a lovely financial package not far behind. Hofstra University is where you'll find everything you have always wanted, and where you will be able to pursue your passion. Just know that this school is perfect for you and that it will change you for the better in every way you can possibly imagine. Never be afraid to follow your heart and do not be afraid to open yourself up to all of the strangers that you will find on move in day, because they will become your closest friends.
Elizabeth
If I could give advice to my high school senior self, I would tell myself to be less afraid of hurting people's feelings and focus more on what's important to my success. I would also tell myself to be more confident and not to fear being myself and speaking my mind, even if it means I'll be judged. I would tell myself to took forward to the amazing things that are to come in college, and to be prepared for stressful times aw well. I would tell myself to appreciate my time at home more, and would tell myself to go ahead and rush into that relationship, but not to be so heartbroken when it ends. I would tell myself that college really is going to be a new beginning where I can change myself for the better and become someone who actually benefits society and does what before she could talk about doing. The biggest piece of advice I would give myself is not to worry so much, because soon I'll leave the negative people and things behind for a fresh start, planning a better, happier and successful future.
Mitchell
The advice I would give to my high school self would be to take as many AP classes as you can because they are practically free and not so much in college. Another fact would be to forget about your social life because you will most likely not see any of them again and work on your education and having grades so you can get a better scholarship and choice of school. Don't be so stressed out about college and learn to relax and enjoy life. You will know who your true friends are in time so don't stress out so much about life. Join as many programs and clubs that you enjoy so you can leave your mark in this world before you graduate and get ready for an amazing journey in college!
Elisheva
Don't worry so much about the college applications. Stop putting yourself down for not knowing how to do everything. A year from now, you are in a common room laughing and studying with people who love you. They want you to succeed, and most importantly, you've learned the tools of the trade in order to make sure you do. You are real world ready. You are going somewhere. The road ahead of you is long and rocky, but you have to know that nothing worth having comes easy. You have a good head on your shoulders and you have to use it for positive thinking. The only person capable of truly holding you back is yourself so make sure that you give yourself enough space and time to grow in the next you're. You'll be doing big things soon, ones that make your life better, and others' lives better too. But the only way to get going is to believe in yourself. So what are you waiting for?
IGNACIA
If I could go back in time I would tell myself to actually follow my passion and not doubt myself. I would tell myself to always be open to making new friends, but always watch out for other's motivations. Know that people's issues are not your own. And lastly, sing until your heart bleeds out of your chest because that's what you're best at. Let it pave the way.