Hannah
Firstly, I would tell myself that although there were great times and friendships made in my high school years, college is a great time to continue the journey onward. There is no need to dwell in the high school years; rather, to merely look back on them with fond memories. I would remind myself that even though money is crucial in paying for college, just because a full-ride is available, doesn't mean it will always be the best choice in the long run. I would tell myself to still get involved; whether that is in music programs, student organizations, going to concerts with friends, etc. I would remind myself to continue my work ethic and make it stronger so I can have more free-time and less time worrying about studying. And lastly, I would encourage myself to be patient because my future husband was just months away!
Kathleen
I would make certain that my high school self applied for more scholarships and grants. To have to pay for college in full without scholarships leaves too much anxiety that isn't helpful when concentrating on getting good grades. It would also save me from having to already apply for loans and to avoid debt as much as possible before I graduate. Another piece of advice that I would give is to go on campus before school actually starts to find your classes. Otherwise you will end up on one side of campus when you need to be on the other side, or end up in the wrong classroom because you did not read the building's name correctly (even when they have the same classroom numbers). Also, have a good support system when going into college. Many college students suffer from depression because of stress and work overload, and it is not beneficial to be fighting depression while studying for exams. That also goes for having a job. Work seasonal and during the summer, but never during school. My senior self will quickly regret ever making that decision, especially when you switched from English to pre-med!
Rebecca
If I could go back and advise myself as a future college student, I would focus on what ultimately would serve as the foundation of my future, such as information obtained, the service provided to my community, and the professional relationships established.
When making the transition to college, I would advise myself to relax and realize there will be things that are beyond one's control. There is no sense in stressing over situations one cannot influence, so take some deep breathes and focus on issues you can impact. Now aimed at the academic aspect of college, remember to read. You are now viewed as an adult with more responsibilities, and this includes your education. The information you obtain will not be spoon-fed to you; you are expected to prepare yourself for class. This includes reading the material before class, writing questions you have, and budgeting your time to complete assignments on time.
Lastly, I would say to have a social life. College is also a time of networking and building social skills. I have met some of the most influential individuals in college, and is important that you do not burn any bridges as you make this journey.
Corinne
I would give the advice of expect the unexpected. When I was a senior I thought all I wanted to do was be an architect, but now after my first semester I realize that I would rather do engineering. It is more math and science based, which is one thing I expected to be in architecture which wasn't. Architecture was more based on looks than stability. I also never expected the classes to be how they are. Some are huge and some are about the same size as high school classes. I also expected there to be more to do at the college but there wasn't much to do till after hours at Kent State. I also never thought school and work could be so stressful, my second semester I tried to do both and I was so stressed. I wish I would have known how to time manage better. So the best advice I would be able to give is to expect the unexpected and try my best.
Veanna
The differences between college and the blissful life before are choices and deadlines. You now have the privilege of making your schedule fit your classes, deciding to do homework, study, or just drop the class, and remembering dates to register for classes, financial aid, and counselor appointments. Once you finish your last day of senior year, you are on your own and no one will help you unless you push and shove and demand for answers. You will hear many times that the key to success in college is asking questions; you need to make counselor appointments at least once a semester and go to your professor’s office hours for extra help. However, you will dismiss this and slack off because it’s frustrating when teachers answer with a question and counselors will not tell you what to do and say, “It is your decision,” but in your darkest hours, a light bulb will go off in your head and you will remember, “This is my life.”
Rachel
Do not give in to "senioritis". It may be tough, especially in the last semester as a senior, to work as hard as you have all through high school, but it is worth it in the end. Also, apply for as many scholarships as you can to get more aid for college. When I started as a freshman in college, I was nervous about making friends and getting involved. However, just be friendly and do as much as you can to make friends, because these are the people who you will make life-long memories with. Also, dorms are not as bad as they seem! It is fun to live in semi-cramped rooms with people you do not really know because it forces you, in a sense, to be your true self and really open up. The last piece of advice I would give to myself as a high school senior would be to just have fun and stay on campus during the weekends, instead of going home, because there are fun events planned by your dorm and you do not just have to party like most people think.
Kimberly
The advice I would give myself as a high school senior would be to make sure I follow my passions. When deciding what college to go to and what profession to major in alot of people will be trying to give you advice. You need to remember to do something that you are passionate about. By taking this direction you will be more likley to enjoy your classes and get better grades. Many people will tell you to choose a major because of the income potential you will have when you graduate. However, just because a career path pays well it may not be the best opprotunity for you. If you choose something you enjoy the money will follow and so will your happiness. College is a big step in life and it is important to not take this decision lightly. Your college career will help shape the path of your life.
Tatiana
Tatiana, don't give up. Work hard because in the end, you end up choosing a college education, and paying attention and staying commited will help you. Pay less attention to your boyfriend and your own insignifigant problems and start paying attention to your future. Give it some more thought. You're not thinking straight right now because you're so wrapped up in what's going on right now. Just hang in there, you'll pull through. I know it's hard, but don't let yourself give up.
Felicia
always keep focuse on your studies and do not have to muuch fun
Jordan
If I could go back in time, I believe I would take more classes at my local branch university during my junior and senior years of high school. Ohio's post secondary program gave me great insight into college academic expectations. It also allowed me to start college just one credit shy of sophomore status, which means I've saved a great deal of time and money. The time I spent on my art AP coursework in high school would have been better spent in post secondary classes. The advantages are quite clear from my perspective now. AP courses require a costly and time-consuming test to determine if credit can be awarded. And then it is entirely up to the college whether they will accept the credits or not. There are no guarantees they will. As a post secondary student, however, your credits are treated quite like a transfer student's.
Brent
I havent gotten much out of my experience I have just went here to try to get my degree.
Jessica
Up until January 2009, my previous years in college have been intense. I declined on taking advantage of oppurtunities that could further me into my career. I lived up to the typical college student life by partying and flunking out to eventually dropping out of courses. It took one deeply tragic event to happen for me to realize I was throwing my life away: my father's passing on Jan. 12, 2009. His last words to me were to finish school, get my degree, and make a living for my girls and I. Maintaining grades were very hard that semester. 3 months later, my grandfather passed. It took me an entire year to recoop from such a hard loss that year. Fall 2010 I went into school with a 1.9 Cumulative GPA ending the semester with a 3.5 Semester GPA and a 2.1 Cumulative GPA. I can say for sure that I am back on the right track. My wanting to finish school is stronger now more than ever. I am dedicated to obtaining a bachelor's degree in graphic design with a minor in communication.
David
I have gotten an intense understanding thusfar of many concepts of engineering and math. Many people graduate from college and all they have is a piece of paper in their hands and are blindly let out to find a career with no idea of how to start their new beginning. I, on the other hand, will not have that problem. The University of Akron wants you to succeed, and they do everything in their power to help you become the best you can be outside of the classroom. I am only a sophomore and the University has already started training me on interview critiques, resume critiques, and tips for appearance. The University of Akron is well known for their engineering department, just being a part of it speaks for itself. The University of Akron has truly shaped me into a well rounded individual and I am eternally thankfull for all of their generosity.
Rayna
The greatest element that I received from college is that I have found my best friend. Besides education and skills which I value very much due to the fact that I have a 4.0 GPA, I value people and friendships. At my first campus, I found the students to be shining on the outside but conniving on the inside. Although this bothered me very much, it did not effect my GPA any. However, it left me with the feeling that I was missing something. The University of Akron gave me hope in humanity. Instead of cold hearted classmates I had people in my classes who desired not only to learn but also to help their fellow classmates learn. And yes, I discovered one in particular classmate who has given me hope not only for humanity but for life itself.
Although attending college has given me tremendous and vast amounts of knowledge and skills that I can use for the rest of my life, the greatest and most valuable is the friend that I made. This has been the most valuable reason to have attended college. Knowledge comes and goes but human kindness and friendships can last for all eternity.
Vanessa
Through my college experience I have met new people from different backgrounds. I have come to appreciate and admire what makes people different and unique. While different, we each share common goals, interests and values. I value education, and my passion is to learn and educate myself in anything and everything.
Jared
What have got out of college is a better understanding for my career field and more knowledge for my career field. I feel that I can go out into my career and do my job better than without going to college and have to learn all of it with no experience.
College has been valuable to me on the knowledge part but the cost is a different story. I feel that college is going to help through my career of all the knowledge college gave me and be a successful service technician.
Stefanie
The University of Akron taught me how to be an adult. I am currently 26 years old and still have another year of school left. I started attending U of A after graduation from high school in fall 2003. I was not prepared for college or anything that came along with it ( new friends, bills, partying, and massive amounts of homework). I literally trashed my college career. I partied too much to fit in with my peers and doing that severly hurt my grades. Not to mention I was working 20-25 hours a week as well. After doing this to myself, my financial aid was taken away from me and I was no longer able to attend school. I was devestated that I had let this happen. That was a hard lesson to learn, but it taught me to grow up and be responsible. after appealing for my financial aid and being on sharp academic probation i have completely turned mysdelf around. I have been on the Deans List for the past three semesters and was also inducted to the National Collegiate Honors Society (NCHS). Akron U changed my life. I do not know where i would be today.
Ciera
Being at the University of Akron as been the best experience of my life thus far. I have met a veriety of diverse people, joined various orginizations and learned how to utilize everything my school has to offer. Im on the deans list and i love the campus and all of the new thechnology that comes with it. i love the university of Akron and im proud of my achivements so far. GO ZIPS!
Alex
In my two semesters at Akron I've gained an in depth idea of how the world of higher education works and what is expected of students that are at the college or university levels. It's given me a chance to take my first steps out into the real world, and has started to teach me how to deal with what the real world will have to offer upon graduation.
Filicia
coming into a community college as a new student was hard because I received last pick in classes, I was only able to take three classes this semester English, bet100, and guidance 101. and i gave it all i could, tried my best, and achieved what i though was hard. and what i achieved was good grades, determination and a high selfesteem. I recieved an B in english IWish I would have brought my notes to the last day but. My guidance class was the most educational class that I have ever taken. I had learn many things from time management, to visual learning,take college notes and about the learning styles, memory techniques, concept mapping, guest speakers, visited transfer centers and so much more in all I did become a master student. I received an a in A in that class .and my computer class refreshed my memory and brought up on the new technology that was invented where I received an a 110 out of 100 bonus questions. I loved learning so much that I enrolled in Spanish, English,math, auto and typing. I hope to going into engineering and work with GMC or Lexus in robot invention.