University of Sioux Falls Top Questions

As I stare with tear-swelled eyes at my student loan balance, I wonder if it was all worth it. Had I forgone an education like the one I choose, I may not have learned the law of diminishing returns, the basics of calculus, or how to speak German. But what terrifies me even more is the thought that I may not have learned the most valuable lesson: try new things. I have never been one to stand out from the crowd for fear of being criticized. But these four years have become a whirlwind of new experiences. Had I not tried new things, I would not have discovered my passion for running 10k's and painting, had the opportunity to mentor young girls with running, applied to law school, went out for the school musical, donated 250 meals to the homeless, or interned on the legislature. Those tear-swelled eyes, I realize, are of pride, not frustration. The lesson I have learned to try new things is one that cannot be included in tution prices. It is a lesson that is far more valuable than the number on my student debt statement--one I hope to never forget.

to do better in highschool. I really thought that it wouldnt do me that much good, but when i wantedthe scholarships, i could not get them. It would have been worth it to kick it into geer before now.

One thing I would tell myself is to not be afraid, I was so nervous to go to college but it has ended up to be the best thing for me. I would also tell myself to just be myself, and to not hold back on who I truely am. I would also tell myself that everything happens for a reason and that God is on my side no matter what.

I would tell myself to keep studying hard, and to talk to professors when you feel uncertain about a subject the class is covering. Try to get out and meet people. Be yourself and you will do fine in college.

College is a time for intellectual development, emotional maturation, and learning one's most pivotal life lessons. It IS the experience of a life time, but it?s not all about school. The most important lessons to be learnt aren?t those in the classroom, but those in your everyday life. Let yourself grow as an individual and don?t be afraid to stand out. Stop living life afraid of being recognized as different?instead, strive for difference. Most importantly: dont rush. College is difficult, stressful, and terribly horrifying, but they're the best years of your life. This is where life happens. Don't let it pass you by because you're afraid of doing something wrong. Make mistakes, learn lessons, and don't forget to love every second of it. Be the person you've always wanted to be and prove yourself wrong.

Dear Jacki, College is great, and you will love it! I know that you can succeed in all that you do if you put your mind to it, but right now the paths that you are going down are going to make it harder for you to make money for college. Sometimes, you choose to have fun and in turn make bad decisions for yourself, over doing what is right-- making the good grades, and right choices. You will only benefit from taking the extra time to study for your biology tests, and doing the homework with dedication to bettering yourself. Save up your money, spend it wisely, be kind to those around you, get the good grades you are capable of, ditch the boys, and stop wasting your money eating out all the time! You are a good kid, and you will make it! With love, Jacki

If I could manipulate time in order to give myself advice about my future I know it would have taken a significant amount of stress out of my senior year. I would go back and tell myself to trust my instincts and don't ever doubt myself when it comes to what I can achieve. It was very stressful trying to decide if I should attend the University of Sioux Falls or not. As a private school the cost was out of my price range. At times I felt that I was making the wrong choice and that I would regret focusing all of my attention on USF. However through hours and hours of applying for scholarships and having a job I have been able to afford tuition this year and do not have any regrets about my choice. While at times I think it would be nice to go back in time I know that in the end I would not change any experience that I have had, both good and bad. Each of my different experiences has shaped me into who I am. You never know how drastically one choice could affect the outcome of your future.

Hey Lizzy! Take a deep breath! College is NOT as scary as you thought it would be. Your professors really care about you, and you have made some of the best, most genuine friends ever. Your classes challenge you, but they are definitely manageable. You can still make time for recreation and fun, and there are plenty of parks and camping in the area. Dorm life will teach you incredible space management, and course schedules will teach you impeccable time management. One effective planning method is to make a priority list for your homework. Finish up assignments in the order they are due, and DO NOT put off big projects just because they are not due until the end of the semester. Make sure you get at least seven hours of sleep at least five nights a week. Audition for the musical, and hang out with your friends when they invite you. Keep your dorm room open and get acquainted with your neighbors. This is a fun stage of life, so try not to be so stressed that you forget to enjoy it.

Knowing what I know now about college life, I would tell myself not to have so many expectations. As a high school senior, I had many expectations as to what college life would be like. I pictured myself having an awesome social life with all the free time in the world, basically living THE life. My dreamt up life was great; so I never really prepared myself emotionally for college. When I got to school, I had no close friends and didn?t know any faculty. I felt lost and alone. To say the least I never expected that to happen. If I could go back in time, I would have utilized all my resources in the field of college searching. I never did many campus tours, and I would spend more time doing so. There are many great people, for example; high school guidance counselors, there to help you make your decision about where to go. The second piece of advice I would give is to not be hasty with your decision about your major. Most of my friends who came into college with a major have changed it now. I say, take generals until you?re definitely sure.

That I should have asked more questions. Asked around and talked with more students and athletes of how it is around the school and campus. Just to be more aware of my surroundings.