Plymouth State University Top Questions

I've learned how the criminal justice system works and how law has evolved over the centuries. I've also learned how to effectively market products and conduct market research. I've even learned how to create a life-long financial plan. But these lessons seem trivial when compared to the one lesson only college can teach people about: the self. Middle school and high school are comfort zones for students; they grow familiar with the groups they have fit in to and are given a false sense of self. Once in college, students are forced to start over. Identity is proven to be a very liquid thing. I have been attending Plymouth State University since 2009 and am now a sophmore, and in that time i have made changes to my "identity" at least a dozen times. I am not happy with this fact, but it has taught me a lesson:I need to be honest with myself; don't be something that I'm not. Success comes out of finding happiness, and happiness out of self actualization. The day comes where everyone realizes what they want, and becomes happy. College is teaching me how to reach this day.

I have been able to explore a lot of new areas that I never thought I would be interested in. I have learned to be independent and not need much my family as much as I once used to. I have learned to take care of myself and be on my own which I consider a vital trait for a successful person to have.

College is a unique experience that is different for everyone. For me it was a fun and creative learning experience. I learned not only things for my major but things that have to do with socialization and the importance of small things. My best friends are now my roomate and other people I made while at my first year at Plymouth State University. In highschool I was not the most driven or acedemic student, now in college I have made the presidents or deans list every semester and thouroughly enjoy it. I find myself wanting to be prepared for class and even enjoy being in class. I realize how each and every class I am taking will help me in my future. I have already clocked in over twenty hours of observation time in elementary schools and aced my first practicum. I have finally found what I love and want to do with my life.

I have gotten so many different things out of my college experience. From the intellect side of things I have learned so much in such a short time . I am learning more and more about my intended major of business administration and also about the differences in people in general. Other things I have learned from my college experience is never forget to appreciate that your mom did your laundry and cleaned up after you, while here at school I have learned how to be independence. It is a valuable lesson but with that independence comes responsiblilty. I have learned not only how to take care of myself, but that I need to have responsibility for myself and my actions. College life for me has been a very positive experience and a journey that I am grateful for being able to take.

Looking back on my senior year, I really could have put more effort into applying to more scholarships. I was a bit lazy in that department, and now being in college, it would have been helpful. When going to high school all you worry about is moving out of the house and attending your dream college. That was my first impression and looking back, I would have loved to spend more time with the friends I had grown up with and the people who helped me be the person I am today. Saying goodbye to all of the familiar faces that I had seen every day was the hardest thing, and letting go wasn't easy. But, people need to learn how to be on their own. Parents aren't always going to be there for you in the long run. So, as early as you can, try to let go and be more independent. In college, the only person you can rely on is yourself.

If I could go back to the time I was in high school I would tell myself to start making some changes. I would have said to myself start saving your money, and start now. But back then I was more hard headed than I am now. My future self would have told my past self, you have no idea how hard it would be to make the transition into college. I would have told myself to make sure you choose the right career field to get into. Choosing the wrong career could mean unhappiness and struggles for years to come. I also would have said to try and get as many scholarships as you can. College is not cheap, but with the right attitude can be a sound investment in your future. I would also tell myself that college education is the best route in life. That Pro-athletics, entertainment, and entrepenurism isn't nessicarily going to gurantee you success in the future. New experiences, new people, and a new beginning to me is going to be more exciting and more fulfilng to me.

As far as the transition goes, moving and living with roomates is not all that difficult. The hardest part of the transition is not being as connected with high school friends. If your friends don't talk to you much anymore it's not because they don't care about you, it's because they are starting new lives and get caugh up in them. So please don't get upset. You will get caught up to, sooner than you think. The hardest part of the freshman year is making friends. Don't be discouraged if you don't make friends right away. Some people don't make good friends until sophmore year. The people you hang out with freshman year, might not be the people you hang out with next year or the year after. Don't be shy, be pro-active and talk to everyone. You never know who you will meet. In college, you must get over your fear of failure. If you see an oppertunity for a job or a special class , jump on it. Don't let them slip by because you are scared or nervous.

Dear Carlene, This may sound crazy, but I'm you, writing to me as a senior in high school after surviving my first semester of college. Because I have this amazing opportunity to write back in time, I have some advice for you. The most important thing I can tell you to do is to take care of yourself. If you are hungry, eat something. If you are thirsty, drink something. If you are tired, take a much needed break and sleep, even if only just for an hour. The more you take care of yourself, the better you will feel long term, and the more schoolwork you can do in the long run. There is a lot of pressure to keep up academically in college, but if you let your health and sanity slip, you will fall behind in classes and start to feel overwhelemed quickly. Avoid getting in the habit of late nights and little nourishment. Take time for yourself. I wish you the best of luck with the end of your senior year and the beginning of your freshman year. I have faith in you, after all, I already lived it. Good luck! Carlene

The first thing I would tell myself is to apply to any and every scholarship I could find. In high school, I didn't realize the true cost of a college education. Also, I would tell myself to become more involved in school and community activities so that the application process for colleges and scholarships would be easier. The third and final piece of advice I would give myself would be to try become more outgoing. Keeping friends from high school has been hard, as well as finding new friends in college.

I would tell myself my goals will change a million times but I must not be discouraged. I would also tell myself not to take anyone else's unwanted impute or put downs about choices in a major. collage is hard work, but a fun experiance, if you let it be. You will get your best grades relaxed and determined, not stressed out and obbseing.