Kansas State University Top Questions

As I sit daydreaming in seminar class during senior year I should have considered taking more language courses. Two years of language would get me into a 4 year college, but 3 or 4 would have been better. I should have studied out my courses needed at K-State more to see what classes could have been excepted and transferred from the community college. Mainly, for the smaller class sizes and the financial load would have been easier on the checkbook. (I had 21 hours going into college, not that all were used for my degree.) Possibly taking a chemistry class at a community college could have helped me be more established in my understanding of chemistry 1 for college level. If I would have met with the college professors or advisors earlier to understand what is expected of a student. The student class shadowing with a KSU student did give me a better understanding of classes at KSU. One must remember that life is what we make it, may it be work, education, respect,or understanding of others. One must work hard to play hard.

I would tell myself to apply for scholarships, for one. I never filled out more than a few because I never thought I would be good or smart enough to get any of them. Awards ceremony day came, however, and I found out many of my classmates that had a lower GPA then I did were awarded money because they took the time to try and research scholarships. I realize now how important that was and how much that extra money could have helped me out. Right now I'm working two part time jobs just to stay a-float, scholarship money would have helped ease that. I'd also tell myself to start shopping around colleges early, even if I was 'absolutely sure' of the one I was going to. As it turned out, instead of going straight to a university I went to a junior college last minute, then I thought I would go to my choice university. I realized after a while that that university wasn't what I wanted, and my plans changed from 'figured out' to 'completely lost'. Had I been shopping around with an open mind, it would have been less of a shock.

Less partying, and more dedication to my grades it really makes a difference when you get out of high school. And taking advantage of community service which looks good for future employer's.

Growing up I always wanted to be an equine veterinarian. After receiving a degree in animal science and being rejected from vet school two years in a row, I have finally decided that maybe that maybe I should have kept more of an open mind. If I could talk to the high school senior I once was, I would tell myself to slow down and enjoy life. School is not a mad dash to the finish line. Also, since becoming a veterinarian was my main goal I should have looked into other schools earlier for their requirements. I should have taken Organic Chemistry 1 as soon as I started at Kansas State University and proceeded through the more advanded chemistry and biology classes so I could apply at more schools. Lastly, have fun, take more classes outside of the college of agriculture, and no matter what comes my way I should always keep my head up and know that I am smart and I can do anything I set my mind too.

Dear Me, I know this is weird coming from the future us but I've got some important information to tell you about college life. You are going out-of-state and you are not going to know anyone. I know that scares you but you have to know that you chose the right path no matter what anyone else says. When you arrive, the first few months are going to be rough socially. Living with a Residens Assistant isn't easy because the only people that come to the door are for her. When they do come to the door, start a conversation with them! I know that if I would have done that, our life would have been a lot more sociable. I know it's scary because of our shyness that comes with it but trust me, it will be worth it. You're first semester will get you a 4.0 GPA! Congratulations! However, spring semester you need to study much harder. The friends you make will be great influences and will help you study. You will be rewarded. You only get one college life, might as well make it worth remembering. Good luck, You

Learn how to study early. Knowing how to multitask and get things done correctly the first time, saves time in the long run.

If I went back in time and give my former self an important talk about transitioning to a college student, it would be difficult to figure out what information would be the most important to relay to me. However one thing I would emphasize to myself is that this is not high school. So just because certain things worked for me in my lifestyle, and studying habits in high school doesn't mean that they will work again in college. I would definitely tell myself to be open, to not assume that just because things were a certain way in high school they will continue to be that way in the next couple years. For instance classes are totally different in college and homework is often expected, but even if your instructor doesn't assign any work you still may have to take time and study your textbook, just to be knowledgeable about the subject for a lecture. Being adaptable is also a good thing, since your living arrangements will be much different; and your parents won't be there to take care of you so you must also take some time to take care of yourself and your room.

If I could go back in time to give myself advice before going to college, I would say get involved as soon as you arrive. Don't just sit and wait for people to come to you. Get out there and find the perfect organization or club to be involved with and devote yourself to it. Find a job your first year and make sure that it's something you enjoy. Apply for any and all scholarships and don't hesitate to ask those upperclassmen where you can find that type of information. I would also tell myself that there is no reason to miss home. There is so much more offered to you at college and you should jump at every opportunity that arises. Those people you're missing back home miss you too but they are also cheering for you and they're always one phone call away for that support that noone else can give. I would also say that there is no excuse for not taking a walk around campus and familiarizing yourself. Plus, it's great exercise. And the number one thing I would tell myself is make tons of friends and have fun!

As a high schooler the hard teachers and classes with the most homework tend not to be the favorite. But when it comes to college it is the hardest high school teachers that make classes easier. Everyone dreads Ms. Stohs' english classes, but pay attention and work hard in those classes. They will more than pay off later, college professors will assign papers and other writing assignments that will seem like a joke, if you do. Don't procastinate until late the night before to do the paper, and actually do a rough draft. Push yourself for the "A", don't just get by with the "B" or "C", the cumulative GPA will be higher and stronger if you want it. Doing so will aid in aquiring scholarships and financial aid to pay for school. Practice makes perfect, and repetition ensures permance. Make the most of her two classes because she will be one of the hardest, if not the hardest teacher, to have in the next few years. Survive her classes with flying colors and college courses will seem much simpler and have more success in them.

Dear Jamie, I know that you are very excited about getting out on your own and making new friends. Here are some tips to making senior year memorable: 1) Continue to be active in FFA and get to know more people. You will see many of them on campus in your classes or in the residents halls. They are awesome people to know and will help you out in knowing what classes to take and what teachers to take them with. 2) Spend some time with mom (you will get the chance in November when you both get a part time job), she has a really hard time letting go. E-mail her about once a week once you get on campus and call her every chance you get. 3) Step out of your comfort zone once on campus! Finding people in your classes is good to do in-case you have to miss a class you can still get the stuff you need!!! There are some supprises during senior year but they need to be kept a secret to keep you on your toes. Most of all have fun and be safe. Always, a wiser and older Jamie