Melissa
Do not bring a lot of useless things to college. Be open to meeting new people. Be more easy going.
Whitney
I would tell myself that college is way better than high school, and that it will be an awesome experience. It is a little sad at first to leave home, and especially say good-bye to the family, but there will be plenty of family time ahead. I would definitely tell myself to put a great amount of effort into making the best grades possible. I would say to not be so nervous on move-in day or the first day of classes. Also, I would want myself to know that I will meet great friends at college. I think I would tell myself how I became much more responsible for everything. Going to college will change my life forever, and bring me the independence to create my own path in life to accomplish my dreams. I would tell myself to never give up on anything, and that the time goes by quickly in college so make the best of every single moment!
Jonathan
Throughout the two and a half years I have attended Marshall University, I have grown tremendously in several aspects of my life all because of the experiences I have faced in college. Even though I can point out more than one experience which has helped me grow, the most important one to me is the effort at which I exert myself. Most freshmen see college as only four more years of school. Knowing this, many strive just to meet their B-average standard, C-average standard, or whatever it may be. Coming into college, I too suffered from this mentality. It wasn't until about a year ago that I decided I wanted to go to law school. With this in my future, my prior mentality of "just getting by" wasn't cutting it any more. I realized that if I want to get into a reputable law school I am going to have make my studies my top priority. This doesn't hold light to only law school. I have since learned that other professional degrees are extremely competitive, as is the work force. Always putting forth my best effort is a habit that I now live by daily.
Katelyn
If I could go back to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself a few things. One being to hold strong to my beliefs and what I consider honorable. Don't let my new environment sway me what I know and love. Be outgoing! The first month of college is the best but you have to put yourself out there, don't be aftaid of rejection: there's always someone out there who will love you for you. Lastly, when making relationships be yourself and don't be afraid to get too close. These new friends you will meet in college could last a lifetime but it is up to you, in part, to make sure they last that long.
Christopher
I would tell myself to apply for more scholarships and to not blow my graduation gifts. I also would tell myself to stay away from certain relationships because they take a tole on the emotions and distract you from what you should actually be doing. I would probably also let myself know not to stress that much because college is not that hard as long as you do the work that is assigned.
Evon
Dear Evon,
It's me, your future self. You'll be happy to know that you are attending Marshall University. You are receiving a lot of really competitive scholarships, including the West Virginia Promise and Marshall University Presidential scholarship. During your Freshman year, you adapted very well. Amazing, huh? That's because Marshall is everything that you thought it would be and more. Moreover, you are dorming in their brand new Freshman dorms and you have your own private bathroom! So, that eradicates your phobia of public restrooms.
But I write to you on more important matters. I remember those times you are now facing. You feel like you are losing a lot of your friends by going away to college. I write to you with hope. Things get much better, and you actually make two friends that you'll probably have for the rest of your life. So, perk up, buttercup! You're beginning a new chapter in your life.
This is you in two years, and I can honestly say that I'm happier than I've ever been.
Yours Truly,
Evon
Kathryn
Life at college is simply what you make of it. Hard work promises uplifting results, while laziness (or missing many classes) results in not only lagging grades, but a depressed outlook on life in general. Find out about everything that will save you money or time, as these are two of your most precious resources. AP and CLEP exams are a great way save time and money for other things, such as other classes. Be proactive everyday and leave lazing about for the weekends when no offices of business are open. Learn your university catalog inside and out and keep a copy at all times. Take your education in your own hands and don't let anyone take it from you. Grades are vital to procuring scholarships, work hard on them and you will be rewarded. Making connections and networking is crucial to your health as well as to your successfulness. Don't be afraid of anyone, but treat every person as an opportunity to better a life (or make them smile). College can be hard, but don't despair: it can also be the best time of your life. And NEVER NEVER NEVER NEVER NEVER NEVER NEVER give up.
Emily
I'd tell myself to really evaluate what I love to do and what I'd want to major in. Also, to remind myself that college is a life decision and that it is my own, not my parents or friends' choice. Follow your gut and stick with what you decide on. Follow through with your choices and ask for help if you are having difficulties. Make friends in your classes so you have study partners and also a social life outside of school but try not to get caught up with the drinking scene on a school night either. There are many opportunities throughout your college experience and expand your horizons by trying new things and getting involved in organizations that help the community. Remember to be yourself and have fun as well. These are the years where you begin the building blocks of your life, start out strong and finish wiser than going in.
Jessica
If I was given the opportunity to travel back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, my words of advice would be priceless. I would make sure to first say that your first year of college can be one of the most exciting and enlightening years of your life if you seize the opportunities you are given. I made the mistake of not taking advantage of all of the opportunities given to me in my first year of college, and I have come to deeply regret that. Also, I would make sure to explain that nothing should stop you from achieving your personal goals and dreams. Living in the dorms is a great experience, but can also greatly distract you from receiving decent grades, and you have to learn how to balance your personal life with your school work. I would also tell myself that I need a plan for gaining admission to the pharmacy school of my choice. I have changed my mind numerous times about where I desire to attend college at. Most importantly though, I would tell myself that college is full of opportunities to meet new people and experience new things.
Jessica
If I could go back in time and advse myself on what I now know about college I would tell myself that it is of the upmost importance to fill out as many scholarship applications as possible. Many scholarships are designed only for high school seniors and once you begin your education it is very difficult to find scholarships for undergraduates. Recently I have been searching the internet most diligently to find scholarships that will allow undergraduates to apply, but I have come up very empty. Now that I know the trials of being an undergraduate in college without enough money for full tuition I wish I would have filled out many more scholarsips while I had the chance as a high school senior.