University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Top Questions

I would tell myself to take school more seriously, and learn better study habits in high school so that I had them in college. That is the biggest challenge I face in school.

If I was able to go back in time and give myself advice for college I would tell myself to not take college courses lightly. I would tell myself that college is not like high school where you can get away with not studying, it is neccesay for college in order to succeed. I would also tell myself to be a little more outgoing and try to be more sociable. But other than those I would not change anything that I went through because I needed to learn most of those things the hard way in order for it to stick with me. I am glad I made the mistakes I did my first year in college because I do not think I would have met the people that have become very great friends and I would not have gained the wisdom that I have now. But I would tell myself for sure to have fun and enjoy every last bit because college life goes by faster than you think.

In honesty given the position I was in as a senior in high school, if I were to go back in time and talk to myself I would say: " Julius it is alright if you were not accepted into Oneonta University or New Paltz or any of the 4 year Cuny schools, what matters is that you were accepted into Bronx Community and you need to give everything you got, in terms of dedication, hard work, focus and a little bit of luck. Like Dad would tell you 'Everything has a time and a place and all will fall into place'." The reason I would say this is because I would not change for anything in this world the current path I have going for myself. I realized that the most important thing to me is knowledge and no matter how I get dedication and taking advantage of any situation that is presented in front of me can and will be turned around to be the best. At Bronx Community I was able to graduate in 4 semesters with a GPA of 3.92 and will be attending the best SUNY Binghamton in the Fall of 2013.

I would tell myself to stop stressing and to stop being afraid of the future! It is important to follow the paths in which your heart leads you. This way, you will not look back wishing you had done something that you contemplated or wanted. It is important to always introduce yourself to as many people as you can. You will not only make new friends by doing so, but also setup networks and connections that may assist you in future endeavors. Most importantly, never take the simple things that college provides for granted. I know that I will miss being able to lie on the quad, sit on the porch of my sorority house, and walk to almost anywhere that is necessary. I cannot believe I am already half way done with college, it truly does fly by. So, remember to be ambitious, stay focused, but also be a little crazy.

Take the easy classes first and study more than you think you need to. Once you are used to college life, take the important classes for the future you think you want.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself when I was a high school senior I would definitely give myself a couple tips for college. College has been great and trust me, there's nothing to be scared about. During high school I was in a much smaller environment yes, but I would tell my past self to not be cautious or reserved when you get to college. You need to be comfortable and willing to take risks, join activities you wouldn't think of joining, and so many friends will be made because of it. I have awesome friends today, but I know I will make so many more if I put myself out there. Of course I would mention the typical parental advice; stay active in class, don't skip too many.. But overall you only go through college once so you need to make the most out of it.

Hey. I need to say congratulations for getting into Illinois because it actually is a fantastic opportunity. You are going to have a fantastic first semester, I can promise you that. I have two things to let you know. The first one is more of just something to remember; do not bring too much stuff to college. You know from the videos that your room is small, and you do not need so many extras of everything—there are breaks. The second piece of advice is to download Skype now if you want to keep your high school friends. Laura, Taylor, and the gang will make a nice Skype group without you. However, you do not have to worry about that; you will make fantastic friends in the Marching Illini. Do not worry—you are going to have a fantastic time in college.

I would remind myself that every male member of my family had been to prison at some point in their lives and they thought education did not matter. I would tell myself about how I struggled to find a good job. I will tell myself of the countless decisions I had to make between food, gas or paying bills. I would tell myself how I felt working at fast food restaurants surrounded by teenagers who were going off to college. I would tell myself of the shame I felt during my class reunion. I would tell myself how I meet younger people who finished college and did not have my financial problems. Then I would tell myself of how I went back to college and how taking a few classes helped me find a better job. Then I would tell myself of my dream of graduating college and my prospects of a better paying career that we allow me to be free for the first time in my life. I would tell myself how hard it is to make that dream could true because of my past mistakes. I will telll myself that you will wish you had an education.

If I could give myself advice two years ago, it would be to make sure you always dedicate youself to your studies. Always put your classes first above all else and make sure they are always a priority for you. Remember how important your education is and how pivotal this time in your life will be. Do all you can to excel and succeed and go above-and-beyond. I would tell myself to enjoy this time as some of the best years of your life and take them seriously because they will decide your future. Never procrastinate and be sure to ask your peers, instructors, and advisors for assistance whenever you need it. Commit your life to your education and your learning and do absolutely all you can to get high grades and take in all the knowledge you can, while you can. Most importantly, I would tell myself to stay positive and focused on your future, because it will be here before you know it!

Wow, do not drink at all in Highschool. Stick with sports to the end and most importantly work harder in calc. Those two minor changes could have completly changed the postion I was in upon entering college. Overall be more cautious with your schooling, be ready for the calc class that you will take freshmen year, for me that was the deal breaker whether I would be come and engineer dont let it be that for you. Fight for that open door, no more standing still thinking that it will be open for you when you think you are ready.