Abby
If I could go back in time and give advice to my high school self, I would tell myself to be more outgoing and join more groups. Basically, get more involved on campus. I think it is not only important to focus on academics in college, but your social life is important too. It is true that your friends in college are often your friends for life. I think by not joining more groups and being more involved with dorm activities, I missed out on many friendships I could've made. Schoolwork is important, but with some trying it can be easily integrated with your social life in college. Getting to know the people I was living around and interacting with almost every day would have been beneficial because without a social life, weekends at school can get pretty boring.
Emily
Do you know the saying, "take time to smell the roses?" Well, it's true. Life has sped by me light a lightning bolt flash. You see the lightning and within seconds, it has already come and gone. Life is supposed to be full of ups and downs and crazy moments that may not make sense right away. Instead of trying to rush through every moment, I should have relished in it. I should have appreciate my trials and sweet achievements just a little more because all of it is what made me who I am today. I was so focused on becoming an "adult," that I didn't step back and smell the roses like I should have. Have I enjoyed me life? ABSOLUTELY. However, if I can tell young Emily something, it would be to enjoy ALL that life has to offer. Enjoy the A+ on that term paper and celebrate! Accept the B on my assignment and game plan for the next one. Listen a little close to the voice within that is trying to remind you that everything will work according to God's plan in due time. Smell all of the roses; even thorny ones.
BOMI
I would push myself more to study harder on some of the AP exams I took on senior year. Also I think I should have been a little more aggressive on searching for scholarships instead of just considering college loans. I would also focus on finding internships starting my first year. I dont think you can get pluged into your field too early. If you do not learn anything from it, you might meet someone who might play a significant role for your job search.
Yokasta
Get involved in at least two clubs or activities you enjoy; not only does it look good on your college application, but it's also a fun way of learning and, sometimes, giving back while also making friends.
Don't be afraid to ask questions, and seek help when you need it; it will save you stress and time later on. Think of high school as a bridge that prepares you for the future and real-world circumstances and problems. It is a time to grow, learn and change. Make the most of it!
Hannah
Don't worry so much about your grades. Focus on making connections, meeting people, having conversations, and building a network. College is about learning, both about your chosen subject as well as about yourself. Be strong in your faith and who you are as a person. Be prepared to meet people who are drastically different then you are. Be open-minded to the diversity in the world around you without compromising who you truly are. Be ready to have the tough conversations with mom and dad about being independent, following house rules, and making your own decisions. Make sure everyone understands exactly what the expectations are and where responsiblities lie. Don't be afraid of failure as you tend to learn more that way. And for goodness sake, keep your mouth shut when nothing needs to be said!
Alicia
Hi Alicia,
Before you head off to just any college, there are some things that you really need to know. You may not know what field of study you would like to go into now, but that's ok. You can always start with your basic core classes. But, before you decide on what college you are going to, you need to do your homework. Make sure that the college you plan on attending is accredited. It makes a world of difference. Not going to an accredited college will make it much tougher to find a job once you decide what field of study you do go into.
When registering, don't just sign the paperwork. Read all paperwork thoroughly. Not only read it, but keep copies of it, because you never know when you may have to go back and reread them in case you run into any issues; for instance, the school closing.
Finally, make sure not to study, but have fun and get involved. Join study groups and clubs. Get out there and meet people. You will never know who you may run into that can help you get the job of your dreams.
Luke
Keep doing what your doing, you're on the right track.
Amber
I would tell myself to learn how to study before you get to college. It would really help. I also would tell myself to look at the bigger schools and not just the small ones. Even though Iiked the smaller classes, I think a bigger school would have been nice to meet a more diverese group of people!
Jacob
If I could go back in time to talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to take a step of faith and go to Liberty University even though it is farther away. When I was a senior, the thing that bothered me the most was the transistion from being away from my family. I really liked Liberty University in Lynchburg, Virginia, but because I was afraid to leave my family and friends I didn't go. I believe that Liberty University is a great place to not only recieve an education, but to grow and develop in my relationiship with God. After my first year of college, I have learned that sometimes choices will not always be easy and things will not always go as you planned, but if you trust in God and believe He will help you, you can accomplish some pretty awesome things. This fall I have decided that I will be transferring to Liberty University and hope to see my faith grow and develop.
Stacy
I would tell myself that college will be the best time of my life. You will make friends and get good grades, so stop worrying! Don't be afraid to try new things and meet new people, but at the same time, don't let people take advantage of you. The Library is a good and necessary place to study, and although a late night food run is more fun, studying is much more important.
I would tell myself not to be afraid to make changes in my life, because change is good.