University of St Thomas-Saint Paul Top Questions

If I were allowed to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to keep working hard. I would tell myself not to let the "senior slide" get a hold of me and to keep pushing through classes and learn as much as possible. I would also tell myself to take more Advanced Placement tests and College in the Schools courses so that I would have had credits transfer to my university. If I would have known this, I could have saved a lot of time trying to remember basic material for my general courses and I would have saved a lot of money if I would have had credits transfer.

Try your hardest, what you don't realize is that the amount of work you put in now will pay off in the future! It will save you so much money. Join more student groups, be more active. Give it your all. The world is yours. "Carpe Diem"

Given the chance to go back to give myself advice, my advice would definitely be to use time wisely and efficiently. It helps one become a more responsible person and it prevents procrastination, which is one of the deadliest dieseases in college life, I believe. Time is so precious during college life, and when it's used wisely and efficiently so many things can be accomplished. When so many things are accomplished, one can just relax and breathe. Being able to relax and just breathe is crucial to college life because it helps reduce or even prevent stress. All these can be obtained if one starts out by using time wisely and efficiently.

Looking back over the last three years of my college education and how I have evolved into who I am today, the best advice I could give myself as an incoming Freshman would be to not have a set plan going into college. Although I believe it is impoartant to have some kind of direction in life, I think it is even more important for incoming freshman especially to be open to the whole college experience as a time to truly change and grow into the person that you are truly meant to be. It is important to know that change isn't always a bad thing, and let's face it, college is the perfect opportunity to change. Learn who you are, be open to new challenges, experiences, and all walks of life, and embrace the idea that life will not always go according to plan. Remember always: "Trust in the Lord with all thy heart, and lean not into thy own understanding. In all ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy path." -Pslams. Trust that wherever this life leads you is EXACTLY where you are meant to be!

When I first arrived at my university, I had no idea what to expect in terms of campus involvement. I assumed that I would automatically involve myself in clubs and organizations that were similar to those I had participated in high school. I quickly discovered that this was not an easy task, and that becomming a serious member of groups such as the student government and the school newspaper required much more than it had in the past. In high school, I found myself on the top of these clubs due to my interest and enthusiasm alone; in college, I was certainly not the only one that had been on the top in high school. I had to pursue other interests and strive to reach a new set of goals. This included trying many new things, being assertive to meet new people and form bonds with new friends, and understanding that I was surrounded by a wide variety of very successful students from a multitude of backgrounds. This took me a long time to learn, and I would love to advise others to not be afraid to step out of their comfort zones immediately in college.

Advice is something one can always use more of. If I could provide valuable advice to myself as a high school senior I would explain how important it is to challenge oneself. One must challenge themselves at an early age, which may start with taking Advanced Placement classes or Post Secondary Education in the High School system. Those classes are free and any penny a student can save in college is extremely appreciated by the college students wallet. Not only are the classes free, but they provide somewhat of a guide as to what colleges are looking to expect out of their students. The classes then can help mold the high school student into a strong academic college student. Being prepared is key to having a successful transition to college from high school. If there are options for students to challenge themselves- DO IT! One can only be their best if they challenge themselves the best they can. Do not be afraid to be mature by preparing and challenging yourself in order to be comfortable with the life changing transition.

I would encourage myself to stick with it, and be prepared for a big transition. Between high school and college, many things change academically, socially, and in your lifestyle itself. Prepare to study and get a complete understanding of materials because they can be tricky, and understanding what you learn is the sole purpose of your education. Socially, people are willing to meet you, as long as you are willing to meet them. Make yourself approachable and be optimistic about everyone without judgements. And finally, you become more independent. What you do everyday has a consequence for the next. How much hard work you put into, determines how much you will get out of your experience in college.

Backing up to my senior year in high school I would first pat myself on the back for my maturity. I feel that key component to one's character and personality is more important to one's experiences than many give credit. Speaking face to face with myself now to then, I would start of by emphasizing the uselessness of comparing yourself to others simply by their physical appearance. St. Thomas holds a reputation for the "attractive" appearances of both the guys and gals on campus and knowing this ahead of time can be a little intimidating. Coming out of high school in a small town and heading as the new underclassman in a big city, I felt prepared for whatever was in store, as my self-confidence was strong and able. As much as I felt my maturity was advanced, I really think that it would have been beneficial to see beyond the superficial stereotypes prior to freshman year. As distracting as living up to a certain look can be, I know now that no matter what one's appearance may be, it's ultimately about the character and quality of values you possess that will lead to success.

I would tell myself that every grade you earn in high school matters towards college. Everything from your freshman courses to the end of your senior year goes on your final transcript. It is very important to try and get the best grade you can. Your GPA along with your ACT/SAT are the keys stats that colleges look at for acceptance and financial aid. With good numbers in those two areas, some extra curriculars and community service, getting into the college you want will be much easier.

I did not remain in college straight through for the four years. I had to take a few years off to help my dad with his business. Now I am attempting to pick up where I left off and I have had trouble with financing and financial aid. If I could go back to when I was a senior in high school, I would advise me to continue with my education and help my dad as much as I could. I know now that I would have been able to help him and at the same time finish my 4 year undergraduate degree, but at the time, I think, I could not have known that. The solution to this predicament is to realize that one cannot know what the future will bring, one can only do what he or she thinks is best at the time. I cannot take back what has occurred, but I can do my best to pick up where I have left off and finish my education.