The University of Montana-Western Top Questions

I would tell myself to go ahead and apply for BYU. I would not let family members or others sway my decision or go to a "normal" college for a "normal" college experience, because I am not enjoying the so-called normal college experience. It would be much easier going to a school where I know someone, to have support, especially since I struggle so much with leaving my family.

"Danielle, I know you are a high school senior and the LAST thing you want to do right now is apply for scholarships, but believe me, it is important! Do it now. This is the time where the most scholarship opportunites are available, you will never have an opportunity like this again. Trying to qualify for scholarships while you are in college or trying to get back into college are way, way tougher then they are right now. You worked so hard to build community service hours, keep a high GPA, be involved in your school, don't let that all go to waste! Apply for scholarships to lessen your debt load, because believe me, student loans are expensive. That little thing called interest? Yeah, it's really important, and expensive. You might think that student loans are an easy way out, but in the long run you end up paying way more for school then you needed to in the first place. Take advantage of the wonderful scholarship opportunites that are out there right now! You won't regret it, I promise."

If I could go back to High School I would tell my self to stay focused and fill out more scholarships as a senior. Also I play basketball for Western and I wished I would have worked on my game a lot more, so I could be a lot more confident in the sport I am playing. Staying organized would be another thing I wish I was able to do. Staying organized is a big thing in college, because there is a way to procrastinate and then fall behind. College proffesors really dont care if you show up to class, but being responisble and organized is the right thing to do in order to maintain a high GPA.

I would tell myself to go to college before you have kids and choose a differnet school

I would tell myself to run far away from college and to start living in the real world. I believe I needed time to figure out what I wanted to do before I wasted $12,000 of my own hard-earned money on a year of college that I didn't want at the time. I would say not to conform to the ideals of my parents or society. I would tell myself to go out and get "kicked in the face a few times". Experience life, visit other countries, meet people, make mistakes, find yourself! And never apologize for living. But I would also tell my younger self, that when I got sick of jobs I had no passion for, when my creativity slowly died and showed no sign of resurfacing, and when I couldn't stand another moment of monotony, perhaps that would be the time to return to school. And I am so glad I did just that. Entering college now, I find that I have a willingness to learn as never before, years of unbridled character built in the time I was not in school, and a whole different perspective on the educated experience.

I was a very confused young lady when I graduated from high school. I lacked confidence and didn't think that I would ever go to college. My parents strongly encouraged me to go to college and reluctantly I went. It was the best decision I have ever made. Not only did I earn my Bachelors in Elementary Education with a minor in Special Education, but I gained confidence in myself and my abilities. I have earned my Masters in Education and am currently working on my Doctorate in Administration. I teach Special Education and I love my job and my students. My education has blessed me with a job I love, my husband and daughter, and life long friends. I am thankful everyday for the education I have and eager for the education that is to come.

College has been a life changing experience in both good and bad. I have learned that life isn't easy or always fun but it's sure worth the ride. Expecially the first time you pull off that 4.0, or ace that really hard class, and definatly the first time they hand you your diploma or certificate. That feeling is incredible, and it makes all the time you felt down and homesick worth it. I wouldn't change going for anything, it has given me the credentials and experience to go on and follow my dreams.

I wouldn't of had so much "Senoritis" if i knew what i knew now. College life is freeing and it great to know that someones not constantly on your shoulder telling you what you have to do, but the consequences for bad choice are still there. The difference that you have no one to rely on but yourself. You may have to choice to put the people in your life that wil help you make the positive decisions, because in college it's nobodies job to care if you make it thru or not.

I honestly didn't have a huge problem adjusting to college life. Probably the toughest part was the first week or so when I didn't know anyone because I went to a school so far away from home. I would tell myself to be prepared for that part, and just to know that it gets a lot better. Try a little harder to speak up and talk to new people, but don't worry about it, because you have plenty of new friends soon enough.

Dear (high school senior) Sarah, I know right now you think that choosing the right college is the biggest decision you?ll ever make, but it?s not. Life is full of decisions and this is simply one along the way. Don?t stress too much and don?t over think everything, because when the right college comes into view you?ll just know! Now, when it?s time to leave home you'll probably have feelings of axiety but that's to be expected. Afterall, you are leaving the place where you grew-up' where your whole life is and where you feel most comfortable. You are also beginning a new chapter in life, which can be very exciting. Once on campus, you may feel like the ?awkward new kid,? but remember, so does everyone else. All the freshmen are going through exactly the same feelings as you. So, don?t be afraid to ask questions and meet new people. The first few weeks or so will seem difficult to be away from home, but stay strong and you?ll begin to settle in and feel comfortable in your new second home. Sincerely, (college freshman) Sarah