Metropolitan State University Top Questions

I would have started college after I got out of the Army in 1980 instead of waiting 20 years to start.

The first thing I would tell myself is to stick with it. This is actually my second time to college because the first time I just was not into the college scene. I think it is important to understand the importance of higher education no matter what the obstacles are that we nee to jump through. I would also tell myself that it does not matter what my highschool friends think because at the end of the day it is my future and my education that counts, no one else's will matter in a few years. I also think it is important to remind seniors on the importance of the college they choose, they do not need to neccessarily know their intended majors but if you go to the right school with the propper tools and advisors, anything is possible and they will help you along your path.

IIf I can go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself the following things: 1. Don't be so high-strung. 2. Work less and focus more on my college education. 3. Be more involved in extra curricular activities at school and carry on more leadership roles. 4. Explore more and go out of my comfort zone when taking the general courses. 5. Study, study, study. 6. If you pass a pre-requisite with flying colors, don't think you'll pass the upper-level class as easily. 7. Get to know your professors. 8. Form study groups. 9. Don't miss class. Make it your monies worth. 10. Network with other students on your campus and on other campus. 11. Don't rush yourself through by taking five classes a semester just so you reach graduation sooner. Trust me, you'd rather be learning than working a 9 to 5 job. 12. Enjoy yourself and have fun.

If I were to talk to my past self, I would tell her that she is a strong and amazing woman and that she can do whatever she set her mind to. I would let her know that just because she doesn't have much money and our parents don't either, doesn't mean she can't get into college. There are financial aid packages avaialable, grants, schollarships and loans. It is so easy to get into school and well worth it and there are people dedicated to helping you succede. College is different than high school, eventhough it seems like another 4 years doesn't mean that's all it is. It is a 4 year package that will set you up for the rest of your life. It will make you feel that sense of satisfaction that work alone cannot accomplish. Also, don't worry about what anyone else thinks, because this is for you and you alone. Your abilities and disabilities are both strengths wether you know it or not, so just take the chance and do it. It's not as hard as you think and the people there are amazing.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would advise myself to take as many Post-Secondary Education classes as possible. I have no regrets about the classes that I took while in high school; I loved the education I received and I really prepared myself during my senior year for college. But had I taken it to the next level and taken advantage of obtaining college credits while in high school I could be much farther along in my career. Though this may seem like good advise, I am, at the same time, very happy that I stayed in my high school. However, beyond this one piece of advise, I have nothing else to offer to my adolescent self. I am very satisfied with the work that I accomplished and the lots of extra-curricular activities that I was able to participate in during my years in high school.

This is an interesting question because my son is getting ready for college and I am finding myself holding my tongue because I know he isn't ready to listen, he thinks he knows it all but I will tell him this. You need to make some mistakes so you can learn how to get back up. You have to get up though, there is nothing to gain from failure if you wallow in it. You need to have fun but you also need to stay away from the sewer drain of drugs and drinking to excess. Keeping life in balance may be the hardest part of these college years but it is vital to your health and success. Always work harder than you think you can, this will always pay off. Pay attention to your gut instincts when it comes to who you spend time with. These may be your friends for life, don't waste your time on thugs. Invest youreslf in your education, you are worth it. Live passionately, it will inspire the world to do the same.

I didn't have any parent or teacher encourage me to go to college. I enrolled by myself as an adult and completed most of it after starting a family juggling evening and weekend classes with a full time job. If I could go back in time as a high school senior I would definitely say to get enrolled right away and get my college degree in 4 years rather than taking 15 years!!