Iowa State University Top Questions

My biggest goal in high school was to get out of there as soon as possible, taking the easiest road imaginable. My parent’s only requirement’s for me were to get a 3.0 and to stay out of trouble. I did just that, I graduated high school with a 3.3 GPA and before I knew it I was an adult in the real world. What I didn’t realize or take the time to think about was my future and where I would be in the next five years. Looking back if I could change the way I viewed my future I would. I would have taken the extra classes and study time needed to get into a four year college. Instead of thinking what is the minimum I need to accomplish, I would think, how can I reach my maximum potential? My advice for not only myself, but also to my younger siblings and other teen’s who are still in high school is to always put your education first. If you put your mind to it you can do and be anything you want, the world is at your fingertips.

If I can go back in time to talk to my high school senior self and knowing what I know now as a college student, I would advise myself to go the route of community college after high school with the goal of transferring to a four year public college. The route of community college is much more affordable and employers does not mind an employee obtaining their four year degree by going to a community college first. I would advise myself to focus on a degree that I would enjoy with a prospect of a career in mind, which now I know to be a Finance degree. Also, I would inform myself not to worry too much on all the little things, such as getting all A's or that it is absolutely a must to attend every class session, but to focus on the big picture of finishing a four degree and learning the trades that would improve my chances of a better career. In the end, college is a learning experience and a stepping stone for my dream job. I should enjoy the experience and make the best of every opportunity.

So you think you are ready? I guess most graduates do. You’ve completed high school and the world is at your fingertips. I remember when I was there too. It will be fun, they said; major in anything you want, they said; college is the perfect age where you are old enough to know better and young enough to do it anyway they said. When it comes down to it they said lots of things.However, what wasn't said was; you will engage with hundreds of different personalities, learning how to find the best in each one is a necessary skill. AP classes are cake compared to college. Oh, and honors classes don’t equal harder classes. Backwards right?Never refuse an opportunity; networking is a stepping-stone to success. You can be friends with professors. Practically everyone is learning who they are, learn to embrace the journey. Umbrellas aren’t “uncool” as a matter of fact being soaking wet as you walk into class is "uncool." Ride the bus, use an umbrella and dress warm. No one cares all too much about what you wear to class.You are really going to like it. Cherish everyday.

If i could go back and tell myself something i would tell myself not to worry so much about the school i ended up picking. Iowa State was such a great match for me, and i worried through out my senior year that i may have picked the wrong school. I would tell myself that everything will fall into place, because they did, and none of that stress about school was needed.

I know your future plan has been to become an architect, live with your best friend, graduate in four years, and move to New York City to live out your dreams. You dont actually want that. Be open to change. Be open to setbacks. Be open to everything. When you get your housing packet and realize that your roommate is from South Korea , dont switch rooms. You will find that she is one of the greatest people you;ll ever meet, and she'll show you that you should be open to people no matter their culture, language, or background. Keep your door open when you're home, some of your greatest, lifelong friends may be a couple doors down the hall. When all of your classes for architecture fill up, take that journalism class that you know nothing about. You'll find that maybe your true passion has been waiting to be discovered all along. Reach out for any experience and any adventure you can get your hands on. College is the time to find yourself, and you will never be able to do that if you dont deter off the path you have set.

I would tell myself that I can do it. I can achieve high grades and make friendships that would last a lifetime so do not worry. I would tell myself to not compare myself to students who live on campus; I can be just as invovled as they are. Keep your chin up and dream big because this is the place where I know I belong.

Do not be afraid to fail, failing just means that you tried but need to go back to the drawing board. Lessons can be learned from failing, and in those lessons lie the answer to succeeding (and at least you can always say that you tried). Hold yourself accountable, but remember you're only human. Get to know yourself and acquire "identity capital"--interships, studying abroad, learning a language, live away from home-- because regardless of the debt and time, you will always have the experiences to look back at--and you will be a better person for doing it. Do NOT wait until the day before (or of) to do assignments or readings. Sit at the front of the class (even if you do not want to) it may help your grade more than you think. Do not be afraid to ask for help. Asking for help shows that you care enough about yourself and whatever it is that you are doing to get assistance (and asking for help can help your grade more than you know). Do not rush through college, half of the fun are in the digressions before you walk across the stage. "Just Keep Swimming".

If I had been given the chance to advise my senior self, I would have emphasized the importance of being involved in extra curricular activities. It was not until my second year of college that I became involved in campus activities such as working at the Student Services office, joining Biology Club and even taking time to speak with my professors outside of class. By participating in such engagements I made great new friends, gained important connections and began networking. I now have many great offers for letters of reccomendation. In addition, taking part in extra curriculars makes your college experience much more engaging and satisfying. In conclusion, I would have told my senior self to be prepared to get out there, make friends, make connections and have fun

I would tell my high school senior that college is not like high school. You need to set up a schedule for homework, work, and social life. I learned that school comes first and that you will always have time later for your friends. You shouldn't spend too much time at work either. Have a lot of money is nice but having good grades is a better feeling. Going back to school work, make sure you study a full week for exams and you will end up liking your classes you are in. Don't wait until the last moment to open up books or do homework also, they will pile up on you before you know it. Last of all, enjoy it all! You only have so long to live life to the fullest. Make some friends and enjoy your adventure.

If I had to go back to high school and teach myself valuable lessons for college, the main part I would focus on is saving money. Making the transition from a high schooler living at home, to a college student responsible for bills is a huge transition that would be a lot less stressful with proper saving techniques. Also, I would remind myself that being scheduled as a "full-time student" is not just a term used to separate students. Being a full-time student really will be like having a full-time job, and a lot of the time I have available should be used responsibly for school work. A good work ethic is key to being successful in college. The better I keep up with schoolwork in the beginning, the easier the transition will be.