Anne
There are many things I would like to advice myself if I could turn back in time. One most important advice is to be yourself. I know it gets absolutely overwhelming to fit in a crowd especially the campus being so big. Don't get caught up to what society expects you to be, just be yourself around people; don't let anyone tell you what to do and not to do. Trying to fit in is such a social norm in our community that we sometimes forget who we are. Other than being yourself is procrastination. In high school procrastination was a huge lingo since all the teachers were easy on us and they are the constant reminders of when the homework or projects are due. In college, the professors will not remind when stuff are due. You are completely on your own when it comes to time management. So it is important not to procrastinate. One last advice is make sure you don't skip meals. Eating healthy food is very essential to which it gives the students energy and strength to do all different task. Just have fun and enjoy the ride!
Madison
If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to get really excited. I would assure myself that this next step in my life is going to be so exciting and to keep an open mind and remember to constantly try new things. Leave my comfort zone, meet new people and have fun. Kent will allow me to explore everything I love. I would guarantee myself that my love for fashion will grow and I will be surrounded by people who are just as focused to be successful as I am. I would tell myself to try and not to be so nervous, that how I am feeling is normal and everyone else will be feeling it to. It will be hard in the begining but so rewarding as the months go on. Embrace the new journey, it will be everything I have hoped for.
Michaela
You can achieve anything you set your mind to; don't give up! Work as much as you can to save money for college. Learn as much as you can from family, friends, classmates, and professors because they've all been in your shoes at some point in your life and they are here to help your transition from high school to college. It can be over-whelming at times, but take a deep breath and realize that you have the potential to do amazing things. Money is going to be tight at times. You might find it hard to find a place to live. Class load might be more than you thought you could handle. You'll wonder if you're even doing the right thing at the right time in your life. But college is here to help you realize and work towards your career. Never loose sight of what you want in life and run for it with everything you've got! You can do this!
Devonia
Okay Look this is your conscience speaking and considering your background and where you come from knowing that your family can't possibly support you financially, you should apply for as many scholarships possible. College is not cheap, you can't afford to play games and socialize at all times you have to get focused. Hold on to that brave, naive, ambitious girl inside of you because your going to need her to get you through the low times. College is going to be the best expereice of your life and also the biggest test against your dreams. If you're as ambitious as I know you are you'll hold on and stay focused because the parties will always be there but your time is now! The dream is yours and its up to you to go after it, a party is a celebration and if it's not worth celebrating the dream than it's not worth attending. While in college work a little but not so much where you get away from the task at hand which is working towards your dreams. Don't work so much where you lose sight of your career for a job.
Valerie
If I could go back, I'd tell myself not to worry about choosing an artistic major in college instead of a STEM major like all of my other friends. It's okay, it will be worth it. It will be difficult, but worth it. Just try your hardest to stay on top of your work so you don't get stressed out as much as I already have. I'd tell myself not to worry about having a boyfriend, because you will make friends and you will love them so much. I'd tell myself to be more outgoing and look forward to meeting new people. Going to college out-of-state doesn't have to only mean leaving your friends, your life. It means a new slate. Don't take it for granted. Get out there and make some memories. But most importantly, enjoy yourself. It's true when others say it'll be the best years of your life. It's when you grow the most as a person, as a human being. Your mind will be overcome by new ideas, welcome them. They will make you a better person. Be open to so much more.
Andrew
I waited a long time before I decided to go to college because I didn't know what I wanted to do with my life. If I could go back and talk to my high school self I would tell me what degree I would be happy with. I would also suggest going to the same college I am now because it really is a good college and I would be able to learn a lot.
Imani
If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior I would encourage myself to work on my writing skills. I would also tell myself to work on studying and applying concepts. I would tell myself that tutors are your friend and to use every tool available for me to succeed. I would tell myself to appreciate my parents and the roll they play in my life. Living on campus helps you grow up quickly. I would tell myself to get around other student that are reaching high for their goals. I would tell myself that reading is a necessity. I would tell myself that procrastination is not something that I should get use to. Getting homework done on time will be important to my grade. Last but not least I would tell myself to make it to class everyday. Those extra points in college will help.
Kristy
If i could go back in time and talk to my high school self, I would tell myself that seeing my name on a college roster is enough motivation to graduate senior year and push through the stresses of college. Walking into my first college class and seeing my name on the roster made me realize the family support I recieved to get to my current position in life. Since I went to college in a different state, my family support greatly helped with homesickness. My name on a college roster also reminded me of all the academic years I went through to get to college. It reminded me of the obstacles I overcame to be a college student. Since completing my first year of college, I would definitely tell high school me that high school is a breeze, and that I should have valued my time there more than I did.
Justin
As I would be talking to my self, I would say:
Justin, congratulations on your interest in continuing on with your education. There are a few things to keep in mind while you embark on this academic journey.
1. In high-school, the class content is typically covered by the teacher, as they will read the relevant chapter inside the classroom and follow a rigid curriculum. However, in college, the professors controll the class content. With this is mind, it is very important to read the chapter before you attend the corresponding class. This way, you will be able to participate with the in class discussions and perform very well.
2. You are deciding to attend college. It is not a mandatory thing. With that in mind, plan on attending events and talks regarding your major. College is here to help teach you how to learn independently, and it is worthwhile to begin appealing to your academic interests right now. Do not be afraid to speak with your professors if you find something within the class particularly interesting, as your professors will be more than happy to speak with you.
That's it! Again, congratulations. The hard works begins now.
Rebecca
First, I would tell my high school self to be a communication studies major! I went into school not having any idea what my major should be, and it took me a semester to figure it out. Although things worked out, it would have been good to know my major in my first semester of college. Secondly, I would tell my high school self to really look into loans, scholarships, and grants. Unfortunately, with a lot of it, I was too late and also confused. I am on track now, but I would have told myself as a senior to really take initiative at that time when it was very important. And thirdly, I would tell myself as a senior to not be afraid! Going somewhere with many new people is, ideally, pretty scary, but by the third day, it is no big deal at all. Everyone is relatively nice, and they are probably a little afraid, too. Just remember, you are not alone and it is not as difficult as it seems!
Talor
I would tell the the 17 year old me that college is a wild ride and to take every opportunity that comes along. If I have learned anything this year, it is that literally anything physically possible can happen and will happen. Be willing to embrace change and be open to any experience. Say yes. You only get to be young and responsible for only yourself during these few years. So enjoy them and take everything one day at a time.
Leah
I would tell myself to not be afraid and to put yourself out there. Also, you need to have confidence and believe in yourself no matter what. Never let other people get in the way of your dreams and aspirations. College is not easy but as long as you stay focused and put your mind to it you will learn and be great.
Brianna
Do not take high school for granted. What they teach you there will really help you for college, especially when it comes to study habits and writing skills. Always turn homework in and do every little bit of extra credit because it goes a long way in the end. Do not be lazy when it comes to scholarships, college is more expensive than you think. Your mother is not working as hard as she does just for the fun of it, make her proud. Always look presentable, carry yourself well because this might be college but it is always a professional enviroment. The friends that you have in high school may not be there for you when you go to college, you must learn how to make new friends. It may not be the easiest thing of your life but it can not hurt you, it will help you to become a better person and be more realistic about situations. And lastly, it is okay to be yourself, by being yourself you will learn that others will learn how to accept you for who you are, for the good and bad. College is a give and take experience.
Connor
My best advice to my high school self would be, above all else, to know exactly what you want in life before you start college. It is beyond important to know what you want to pursue as your major, and to know what your plans are after you graduate. Plenty of my peers here at Kent State don't know what they want to study, and as a result, their graduation date is being pushed further and further back.
SARRA
My advice to future college students that I should have grasped, is to NEVER be afraid to ask for help when you need it! College is very different and more challenging than high school was, and many students in college are ashamed to ask for help because they never used to need any when they were in high school. Professors, tutors, librarians, and many other resources are all here for you! Take advantage of it! Especially since you are spending alot of money on your college education, it's best to take advantage of the extra help available for your success! This is probably the best advice I could give to myself and future students, because it can be the difference between failing a class and getting an A. GO FOR IT!!!
Jennifer
Dear Highschool self,
Being a senior it is scary thinking about going away for college, but just remember one thing. Try not to be overwhelmed with the college experience. Make school work your first priority. Make sure to apply for scholarships and to have high GPA so you can get awarded for your academics. Ask for help as much as possible. It does not make you look uneducated, it will help you in the long run. When there is a tutor available, use them. Your advisor is your best friend. It is their job to help you, do not hold back. Don't lose focus on who you are. You will start finding out who you are as a person and what is important to you. Make as many friends as possible, connections are the best. In every class make a friend so that you can have a study buddy or help if you miss class. Oh and lastly, remember just to take a deep breath. If you think highschool went by fast just wait for college.
Sincerely,
college me
James
You come a long way to become a young man of learning, responsibility, wise decisions, and making a great life for yourself!
Bambi
Explore all career fields. It was so easy to choose between being a doctor, lawyer, or teacher....but there a millions of different jobs out there that I didn't even realize existed...EXPLORE YOUR CAREER OPTIONS BETTER!!!! You really are smarter than you felt in high school. College classes are more focused and are a better fit, so being a pharmacist or lawyer is NOT out of the question!
kaylynn
I would tell myself that college is so much harder in high school. Many kids fluff off high school and think it is too hard for them, unknowing until they get into the college level. This level of education is tough and you must work hard. The friends and relationships can be put to the side and school work comes first. Always try and apply to scholarships before the term starts. Finical aid helps out, but the free money from generous suppliers is a plus!
Mariana
The advice I would give to my past senior self, is to make myself uncomfortable. In a way this may seem like bad advice, but for me and others, this could help alot. By saying to make myself uncomfortable I mean that I should have made choices that I wanted to do, but felt too uncomfortable to make. One example is that I choose to room by myself because I was too scared of rooming with someone who might not like me, by me making this decision I was unable to have that experience and make a new friend. Another example is that i choose not to participate in any activities, if I would have done this and made myself uncomfortable then I might have found something I really enjoyed and may have made some friends at the same time which also might have meant that i would hang out with people more! I am afraid to be around people so if I would have made myself uncomfortable and gone with some choices that I wanted to make but was too scared too, I might have had a better year and might have made some friends.