Iowa State University Top Questions

in high school i would tell myself absolutly nothing because the mistakes i made have inspired me to do and want better formyself. the past events of my life have molded my present and will decide my future. i know i did my best in highschool and thats all i can do.

I WOULD SAY TO MYSELF THAT I SHOULD TAKE MY CLASSES SERIOUSLY AND GO TO MORE CAREER FAIRS SO THAT I WOULD BE ABLE TO GET A BETTER OVER ALL GRASP AT OF WHAT TYPES OF JOB ARE AVAILABLE TO ME, BUT NOT TO TAKE THINGS TOO SERIOUS, AFTER ALL I'M JUST A KID.

I would explain to myself that there is no need to look down on college life and pursuing a degree. This is because in high school, I was very anti-college. I felt everyone was following the same beaten path by going to college, earning a degree, finding a job, and becoming another typical member of society. It’s been a few years since those days and now I am sure of what I want in life and I have a plan to get there. This plan involves college and I’m glad it does. Like any life experience, college can be much deeper than it seems. It's an experience that will put the finishing touches on one’s growth into an adult. Since I began college, I’ve grown a great deal mentally, physically, and spiritually. I’ve strengthened my understanding, tolerance, discipline, reliability, as well as many other characteristics. Teachers, friends, partners, and mentors will constantly challenge you to struggle and, in turn, grow as a person. College isn’t the same for everyone; the experience and results from it will vary as much as people themselves. The one result that everyone will share however, is growth.

Should I have the chance to go back and give myself advice it would be this: Do not wait and dive right into working full-time jobs. I understand that life delt you a poor hand and that you suddenly have more responsibilities then a teenager should at that time, but you must look forward to what you will become. You are focused on where you are now and with good reason, however, take a step back and breathe. Focus on where you are and where you want to be. It took myself some time to understand that and had I had someone to tell me that, I believe I would have been on the right track sooner. All that truly matters is that I have seen where it is I want to be and have taken the reigns, forging ahead in that direction. It really is better late then never.

The one thing that I should have done differently in high school was take advance placement (AP) classes in areas outside of science and math. Those classes would have fulfilled the general education (gen ed.) requirements of my major (Chemical Engineering). My high school offered AP English, Art, and History; however, I did not take them because I was already taking AP Physics and Chemistry at the time. Had I taken those classes, I could have replaced the gen eds. im taking now with classes that allow me to discover the different avenues within my major. Although I cannot take as many classes as I would like, I am still taking advantage of my college experience. From the very beginning of my college career, I involved myself in research, campus organizations and volunteer work. All of those activities opened doors to many opportunities like internships, which allowed me to discover my interests and grow as an individual. Once I've earned my BS in Chemical Engineering, I plan on pursuing a PhD. in Biomedical Engineering, specializing in Immunology. I may also work towards a MD if I feel it is necessary for my future research.

If I could go back to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to live in the dorm rooms and not move into an apartment. I missed out on that college experience and I regret it. I would also tell myself to not be afraid to try new things because that is what college is all abot. I would also tell myself to save every penny I earn because although Iowa State University is a public school it is still expensive, especially when you have no financial support from your family.

My advice to myself would be to take education seriously because without a good educational background you won't get no where with just a high schoold diploma. Thinking to way back then you can just walk into anywhere basically that has a "help wanted" sign and you'll be able to walk out with a job, but with this economy you need more. You're never too young or too old to learn. With a great educational background you'll be able to have a expand your horizon and is given that opportunity to pick and choose what you want to do. I can't stress it enough but education is such a great asset to have and get. What I realized now is that I wouldn't never trade anything for the education I'm getting now. All I have to say is education is the main key to success!

Don't be afraid to explore! College goes by a lot faster than you think and you don't want to waste anytime holding yourself back. This past freshmen year I regretted not putting myself out there more. Joining clubs, organizations, or just taking different fun classes are all ways of exploring through your college years. This nexts year I decided to come out of my comfort zone and sign up for a national student exchange program. I will be attending a completely different university this fall and can't wait to make new friends and explore new opportunities that are provided. Looking past the fun activities and groups universities have avaliable, the major you choose is also another way of exploring. I've learned that you don't HAVE to be 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} certain about a career path right into college, afterall this will most likely be your focus until retirement. I took advantage of the on-campus counseling services to help me pin point my strengths and intrests in areas I may not have known before. In summary, college is all about discovering news things and experiencing new opportunities don't leave with any regrets.

I would tell myself to take advantage of the people around you that can help you with college related things. Guidance counselors, community colleges, etc. Take classes at community colleges to futher your college education.

Take your schoolwork seriously. Stay on task and muscle through the rough parts. Study in groups, always. Don't think you have to figure it all out yourself, but don't give up too easily.