Marquette University Top Questions

College is what you make it. College can be fun and exciting but only if you throw yourself into it whole-heartedly. No matter where you decide to go, there are so many places that you could be happy, there is no one correct campus or major or set of friends; this decision will not make or break you. Meet as many people as you can and get involved with clubs and activities, the people you meet here will become your friends for life. You are never alone, whatever you go through, whatever you have gone through, someone else has gone through it too. Seek help when you need it. Talk to your teachers, they were students once, some of them still are, and they can help you more than you could possibly imagine. The most important thing I can tell you though, is to live it. Enjoy college. Try new things. Discover who you are. Live with no regrets, this may be your only opportunity.

First of all, I would tell myself to relax! I remember how anxious and nervous I was the summer before my first semester of college. I had such high expectations for myself and I did not want to let myself or my parents down. I made sure to keep on task of upcoming events and stayed organized even before classes began. I would tell myself that studying is a lot different in college; information is easy to cram in high school. I would recommend to read the text book assignments before class, attend every lecture, take good notes in class, ask professors question either after class or during office hours, and discuss information with fellow students. I would confirm to myself that partying in college will have negative effects on grades. When I decided to stay away from alcohol when my friends were going out to party, I ended up with a much better GPA than they did. This is especially important for pre-med students like myself because any alcohol violations result in denial into medical school. Overall, I would recommend good study habits and to relax because college is manageable and good things will come from hard work.

In hindsight, there are many bits of knowledge I wish I would have had before coming to college, some pieces I had acquired, but chose to disregard because I thought I knew better. Studying wise, there isn't much difference. If you don't put enough time and effort into your grades and become wrapped up in other less important endeavors, students won't receive the grades they want. I knew that I needed to get good grades, but making friends and finding good people was something that had scared me, and continues to scare me. Looking back, I would remind myself that judging before you know someone is never the right way to go because you could be missing out on a genuine friend. On the other hand, if someone you trust tells you that a certain person is not genuine, it is probably best to take their advice. College is all about learning, but not just academically, and even though I woudl love to have had words of advice as a senior, it would not make me the same person I am today.

Going back to myself as a high school senior, the first thing I would tell myself is, "Relax." I was spending a great deal of time worrying about where I would go, what I would do, and how I would pay for it. I filled out countless applications for both college acceptance and scholarships. While I am very glad I applied to many schools, expanding my options and learning new things about myself from each application, I wish that I also would have taken the time to fully absorb my senior year. I would tell myself to slow down and take a look at the bigger picture: you will ultimately decide on a path that leads you to happiness. I would tell myself that friends and family would truly help when making the final decision, and that they were the support I needed then and now, and to make sure to thank them for all of that support. If I could talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself that everything will all work out, no matter where you choose or what you do.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself this, ?trust your gut.? Trusting and believing in myself will carry me through the rest of my life. It all began when I visited Marquette University. Walking through the campus and watching current students walk to class made me want to become apart of the Marquette Community that my tour guide raved incessantly about. Then, when it came to orientation week and making new friends I became friends with people who made getting to know them easy. Everything just felt right. I know, trusting my gut will continue to assist big decisions in my life throughout my academic career and also throughout my future career achievements. Trusting my instincts and believing in myself will get me far in life and I am determined to become successful in my field. Especially in high school, when self-esteem is low and some relationships are rocky, it?s comforting to now know that everything I chose was right for me and listening to my higher conscious led the way to a promising journey I am just beginning.

Make sure you get involved. There are so many things Marquette offers to students so take advantage of that. They can be fun and life changing, so make sure you use that resource to get involved. Also make as many friends as you can. These people will be your friends for life so make bonds that count.

Going back I would point out that the idea of only caring about the fun in senior year is not the only thing in the world. I would prepare myself for change and to be solid and comfortable with whom I was in high school, but in turn also be ready to find a new chapter in my life. I talk about the fact that things learned in the past come together in ways that one may least expect (and that is not just on the television show Jeopardy). I would also mention that I have to take the time to look back and reminisce on the moments that makes me who I am; in that present moment and how in the future the moments will be important. I would also point out to myself that the only permanent thing in life is change, and sometimes that change may be intense and frightening but it all pays off and creates a greater future than one could never expect.

If I had the opportunity to go back to when I was a high school senior and give myself advice, I would tell myself that, ?College is a roller coaster because of all of its ups and downs. When I start my first week of college, I should calm down and take it all in stride. I shouldn?t worry about making friends because through extra-curricular activities such as choir and community service projects, making friends is extremely easy. Even though college classes may be difficult, the professors are there to help and they welcome the interaction with their students. Everyday of college is a challenge and no matter how stressful it may become, the hard work will eventually be worth it. Finding quiet places in residence halls or libraries is important for peaceful and relaxing study. Also, honor the views, thoughts and sentiments of all individuals that you come in contact with.?

If I could go back it time, I would tell myself that the drama isn't worth it. I would tell myself to keep reading. There is nothing more shocking than coming to college and finding out on the first day that you have four chapters that need to be read by the end of the week. Also, just have fun. I was already set for college I just needed to do enough to keep my grades up. Otherewise, just keep being yourself.

Karen, This is your senior year. Congratulations! I know you've worked hard in high school and you're excited to graduate, but you really should consider the expensive cost of college. Your father will lose his job this year and money will be suddenly become tight in your family. So apply for even more scholarships than you think you should. If you don't, you may not be able to continue your education at Marquette in the year 2010.