Syracuse University Top Questions

I would tell myself to take each day at a time and not get overwhelmed. Work on your time management and organizational skills. Cherish this time in college and take all the opportunities you can to make friends and try new things. Keep a job to make money but also make time to socialize. Remember that studying is important. Take advantage of the knowledge of your professors. Network and make connections. Go to more sporting events and concerts. It will take time to get used to the new setting and lifestyle but you are blessed to go to this school so be happy.

I would advice myself to take less courses, especially the first semester. I would also advice myself to become active in campus as soon as possible.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to practice opening up to people and be braver in regards to meeting new people. I was rarely the kind of person to go up to a random person and begin a conversation, and even when I did, I could barely hold the conversation for too long before my awkwardness and shyness kicked in. This trait was hard to shake when I got into college, where I, like everyone else, knew no one. It was hard to make friends because I hadn’t learned how to be more spontaneous and open to meeting new people. I learned that having a group of friends to hang out with is a very important aspect to college life. If I could go back in time, I’d definitely tell myself to make some changes to my social skills and to start meeting new people everywhere I could. Practice makes perfect, and I am now getting better at being more sociable!

If I were able to talk to my high school self, I would tell her that she should only apply to schools that she is truly passionate about going to. I got talked into applying to some schools in Texas by my mother and I did get into them but my heart wanted to go out east. Luckily, I got into one of the schools that I was drooling over, but if I could've had more options out of state then I could have been able to look around and see which school would offer me the most money so that I wouldn't be in quite the financial bind that I currently am since my parents do not pay for any of my schooling. I would also want to tell myself to open up to love because ever since my parents divorce I have been afraid to trust people, and if I were to give people the chance then I could be truly happy.

Since my major is known widely as one of the hardest at the University, I was afraid I wouldn't really have time for extracirriculars. I didn't really get involved in some things that I wanted to because I figured why bother? I wasn't going to have time to see them through because my coursework would take up too much of my time. I would tell my high school self not to restrict myself or use my coursework assumptions as excuses for not getting involved. I ended up finding out there were people in my major who were involved in the very same clubs and activities I was interested in (like ski club, for example). I would tell myself that freshman year is the lightest year as far as coursework goes and is meant for trying new things--so go for it! Do what you want and if it doesn't work out, then fine, at least you know and are sure you didn't miss out on something great!

When I look back to high school days, I see a hopelessly timid, quiet, and overly cautious girl. Many students look back to high school and say, ”I wish I focused harder, tried harder, and avoided the sways of procrastination.” Of coarse I look back and point out that I could have studied a little harder (everyone can always do better), but a lack of focus was never a problem for me in high school. My inability to be outgoing prevented me from reaching my highest potential. Now in college, I think, “why was I so afraid?” If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself, “Life gets much better than this Veronica. There is no need to be afraid and shy, for it only holds you back. You are a smart, talented, and funny young lady. Let the world know it! Speak up! Sharing your ideas will not only help you improve in school, but it may even help other students improve as well. You will be surprised how much a positive change in attitude will help you succeed not only in college, but in everything you do”.

If I could go back in time and give my high school senior self any advice, it would be to never doubt yourself. You know what you love, so go for it. I spent so much of my time earlier on trying to make others happy that I forgot who I was and what my passions were. I wish I had accepted those earlier on. I would also advise myself to exhaust all financial options as soon as possible. It has always been a struggle financially at Syracuse, but I think if I had realized this earlier and prepared myself, my parents and I would have had an easier time. Despite the advice I would give myself, my time at Syracuse has been enjoyable, even through the tough times Even if I had the chance, I wouldn't give up my experience at this university for the world.

College will grant you the ability to actively participate and immerse yourself in any subject hat interests you. Too often, students focus on theory and the text of a subject, often neglecting the human element. As a college student, you will be able to continue learning about everything and anything you could think of. The individuals in the text book are no longer obscure names, you will see them teaching and mentoring you everyday. You will enjoy being a student and should be grateful for the numerous opportunities you will have in college. From community service to studying abroad in a country that is no where similar to the United States. Be prepared to challenge yourself in a different capacity. Continue to be educated, network, and eventually improve the world. Sure, the transition will be hard. You won’t have your mothers food, nor will you have the comforts of home. But this is all in part of, as corny as it sounds, growing up. You will see so much more diversity, intellect, and enthusiastic students that you will never see anywhere else. This is truly, an opportunity of a lifetime.

Edam,Remember the weeks you spent trying to learn a monologue and at the day of presentation you choked in front of your class? But, after that, you recovered and did it so smooth that you got a standing ovation. Our life is somewhat like that. The product will not always be as perfect as we imagined, but the effort you put in the process will show. The long days of breakdance practice and creating choreography to prepare the team may seem meaningless, but will pay off. A lifestyle of independence that you hope for will become a reality and the family problems you face will arrange themselves in a way that you may not like. But, please take on the challenge of being more productive toward your family and your art. Focus Edam, but in all, do what makes you feel accomplished because not knowing what is to come adds that sense of adventure to our life. “Look forward, for only pigs look down when they walk, even a dog has the decency to raise its head once in a while”. These wise words from our grandmother will always stick with us, and you will soon understand their importance.

I would tell myself to get a better sleeping and homework schedule. I tend to put things off until the last minute. Though it usually works for me, I know I would feel better If I got things done and out of the way. I would also tell myself to be involved in more things. I'm not a junior and wish I had joined a club or two during my freshman year in order to meet new people.