University of Michigan-Dearborn Top Questions

If I were given the opportunity to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would have advised myself on several important topics. First I would let myself know that while senior year, graduating, applying for college and trying to figure out who you are is hard, it is a joy to enter into the college stage of life where there are no more cliques nor such insecurity to suffer. I would try to let myself know that it is okay if I do not know who I am or what I want to be. That the process of transitioning to a different city, school and home would prove to be the most beneficial thing that would ever happen to me. My greatest piece of advise would be to not doubt myself, feel insecure or stress out about the little things. Rather, I would convince myself to enjoy the college experience, make the most of my opportunity and work hard with the knowledge that it will all pay off in the end.

If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to not let other people push me into what they want me to do. I would tell myself to follow my dream for college, which I am now doing. I'd tell myself to pick up my study habits, you really need to study in college to make it work. I would tell myself to relax more, that everyone was as nervous as I was on the first day. I'd also tell myself to make lots of friends in my classes, its more fun to study in a group than by myself.

I would tell myself that under no circumstances should I assume college to be a walk in the park, or anywhere near as easy as high school is. I would tell myself to go see an academic advisor the week of school, create an outline of the courses I need to take and what semester to take them in so that I could graduate on time. I would tell myself not to worry about making a lot of money while in school so I could go out and spend time with friends, working many hours and spending too many nights out instead of in studying has crippled my career, and now I can not go back and change it. Most importantly, I'd tell myself not to underestimate the reality of the situation, real debt is racking up and you can't hide from it.

I would have not dropped out of school and put more effort in attendence. I wish I could have spent more time studying colleges before deciding on the first one I went to. I had to leave because of not being able to afford the tuition through loans given current family issues and now I have six months to find a new school. Although now I get the chance to go for something I always wanted to.

I know this year has been tough, but I have some advice that I think will help you out as you finish high school. First, I want you to know that grades do matter. I'm sure you are ready to graduate, but don't start slacking in your classes because almost every college or university will look at your grades. Even some scholarships require that you show them a transcript. Also never give up..EVER!! You've heard that a lot, but its really true. You know your dream school, the one that you're hesitant to apply to because you don't think you'll get in? Well, one day you got the nerve to apply and you were accepted! This brings me to my last point. Believe in yourself. You're very capable of doing some great things in life. I'm proud to say that one day in the near future you'll start an internship at Walt Disney World and you will eventually intern at your favorite radio station. I hope this has motivated you and helped you realize that you're one step closer to achieving your dreams.

First of all, I would tell myself to take 4 years of math. The three years my high school required was not enough. Next, I would explain the necessity of having goals. Staying motivated can be difficult without a defined goal. I would also point out the benefit of patience and perseverence. Instead of looking at how long I still have to go - a prospect which can be quite daunting - I break my education down into semesters. As a high school senior, I was overwhelmed by the thought of another four years of school. By breaking it into chunks, with smaller goals under the overarching goal of a Bachelor's degree, it becomes much easier to manage the stress of each semester, and I no longer am so concerned with wondering, "When will I be done?". Lastly, I would remind myself to celebrate my successes and enjoy how far I have come. Even these days, not everyone graduates from high school, and it's important to recognize yourself for your accomplishments. One thing that has kept me going through my hectic school and work schedule is the satisfaction of another semester done - but the treats I give myself help!

If I was able to go back to my senior year of high school I would've have given myself a lot of advice. Simple things such as to become more outgoing, and just go with the flow. Going to college is not that scary, meeting new people is for the better and that will lead you to bigger and better things. If I would have only got involved on campus quicker I could have done so much more. I would have also told myself that college is no joke, and when a professor recommends to read the chapter before you show up to class, to listen to that wonderful advice! Transitioning from one school to another is not so simple, especially if you were really attached to your high school like I was. As many high school seniors don't realize that college life will probably be the most hectic yet the most fun years of your life. But seeing that I can't really go back in time, I just hope to pass this message to my younger siblings one day!

I would remind myself to make a fresh start in college and to walk unto the campus with my head held high. Never be afraid to ask questions or give opinions. Study hard, but seek help when needed. Even with a learning disability, I can accomplish great things. Listen to the professors because their lessons will matter years after graduation. Meet many new people, because I never know who might become a life-long friend. Take advantage of what the university has to offer - relevant classes, guest lecturers, important seminars, clubs and organizations, community service - the opportunities are endless! Do not be afraid to get involved in new activities - anything is possible! College is the place to develop my talents and creativity. I will leave a mark on this school, just as the university will shape me. Now is the time to let my confidence and enthusiasm shine while this college helps me find new courage to face the future unafraid. Above all, enjoy the experience because the next four years will be unforgettable and REALLY fly by! I will leave the university a different person, hopefully well-prepared to begin the next chapter of my life. Good luck!

HEY! JUST MAKE UP YOUR MIND ALREADY! You're good at the engineering thing, honestly. Yes, it is a lot of work, yes you love music too, but you have to put your time into a job regardless of what it is. You have to work hard regardless of what it is. The difference is that with the engineering degree, you put in less time getting the diploma and still make more money by putting the same time into your job. You have most of the knowledge you need. Live in an environment that you can get good sleep in, and stay away from active social scenes. Go to community college first and transfer for the degree. Your first two years are FREE because you did good in high school that way. All of this Aidan, you have down pat. You just need to stop avoiding the Engineering path, because if you dont, then you end up spending three years at community college rather than the two you could have finished in. One last very important note: DONT LET ADMINISTRATORS SHUFFLE YOU AROUND. School is a service industry and you are the customer. Demand answers and accept nothing less.

If I could go back to being a senior in high school knowing what I know now, I would have taken the initiative to being a better accountant. Scholarships are an issue that high school seniors do not really comprehend. They know if they have scholarship money than that reflects a good grade point average (most of the time), but college expenses go beyond books, and classes. There are living expenses (dormitory, eating, accessories for furniture, etc?), unnecessary items for wanting purposes (electronics, clothes, etc?), and activities students can find on big university campuses (spring break, restaurants, clubs, etc?). What I have learned is that textbooks and classes are not the only thing students have to worry about in regards to spending money. I had to learn how to spend wisely, and make sound decisions so I would not have money issues. Going back as a senior I would have mapped out how I would have saved and spent money so I would not end up broke. By investing into saving accounts, and pinching each dollar by purchasing used or cheap items would have prepared me for the cost of living for a four-year university.