Vanderbilt University Top Questions

If I could speak to myself as a high school senior I would only want to say one thing, " Stay excited". The most rewarding, thrilling moment of my entire high school career was when I opened up my undergraudate acceptance letter; I was shaking with pride and joy envisioning the friendships, opportunties, and knowledge that was in my future. Since thenI have tried to keep this passion with me everyday of college. As a part of our human nature, we are always chasing after 'what is next'. With this sometimes we forget and become dulled to the great joys in our lives. For me, I did not want to forget that pure happiness with my acceptance to college. Beginning my first year, I joined a mentorship program for high school female students. In this progarm college females are paired with highschool females to learn about female empowerment and the transition from high school to college. Now, four years later I am the president of this same organization and I could not feel happier with my choice to stay invovled with this mentorship program and be a role model to young women in my community.

If I could advise my high school self, I would definitely tell myself not to worry so much about the college application process. I was overly concerned with getting into a few specific schools, and based my happiness and worth on these acceptances. I did not end up getting accepted to my first choice school, and it was devastating. I would like to tell myself that one school or one acceptance does not define your value as a person, and that everything works out in the end. I ended up choosing to attend Vanderbilt University, and I can honestly say that I am at the best school for me. I thought I knew what was best for me then, but I was actually guided in a much better direction. I would also like to tell myself to be more comfortable in my own skin. I have always been shy, but college has given me a much greater sense of confidence that I wish I could have had all along. Greater self-assurance and self-esteem would have made my transition to college easier, since it is easy to doubt yourself in such a new and intimidating environment!

Don't be afraid to go out and meet other freshman.

Five words would have completely changed my college experience - welcome new experiences without fear. I never imagined that I would go to a school like Vanderbilt University. In fact, I had not considered applying there until my high school debate coach, an alumus of the school, encouraged me to apply. This was the first moment that Vanderbilt tested me - would I shy away from a seemingly daunting experience, or would I boldly confront my fears and step into the unknown? I first had to overcome my fears of being the only Black girl in class and of being the imperfect student before I could fully appreciate the rich history that makes Vanderbilt a remarkable institution. Little did I know that these meritless fears were unimportant once I found a supportive network of people who were just as eager I was to do well academically, while making time for relaxation. These fears were frivolous once I became part of an environment where I interacted with students willing to engage thoughtfully in conversations about society's most pressing issues. I learned to appreciate the power in the ability to welcome new experiences without fear as the difference between being average and legendary.

Do not focus on what you or what you think you lack compared to other students whether it is education, money, prestige, or talents. You were admitted for a reason because your school saw potential in you. Although it is important to know your weaknesses, do not focus on them. This will debilitate you if you only focus on what you lack. Do not focus on what other people would think when you make a mistake. Know your strengths and use them to your advantage. Show yourself and everyone what you are capable of. You may feel like you are the only one who feels the way you do but there are many other students who hide their insecurities behind their smiles just like you. College is difficult but you will enjoy yourself. Just keep your head up, be yourself, and do not be afraid to use your talents.

I would say to myself, "Sam, why are you hung up on attending an Ivy League college? Sure, the national reputation of the Ivies supercedes most other colleges and universities, but there are so many other amazing colleges out there. Think about your high school.... it's not as reputable as many of the other schools in the Atlanta area, but look what you were able to accomplish. You can do the same when you get to college, as long as you have the resources available to you and an environment in which you can grow and express who you are, and make friends. Sam, you need to talk less and listen more. Don't get so upset when people don't agree with your views - listen to where they are coming from and chances are they will give you equal respect when you state your side. Seriously, listen more.... talk less. And one final thing. Stick to your summer running schedule. If you do, you might be state champion in cross country - sure Cameron Thornton is tough to beat - but you have to at least give it a shot.

Always try your best, don't be lazy. You are so smart do not slack. Apply for as many scholarships as you can because college is expensive. You should work hard and achieve the best grades you can. Do not be afraid to speak up in class. You can achieve your highest aspirations you just have to work really hard. Whatever your dreams are you can do it with will power. Get into good organizing habits so you can keep track of all your notes and assignments. Study hard especially in math. Make alot of friends. Create memories you will never forget and please dont wear those silver heels to graduation.

I felt very prepared going to college. One thing though that surprised me was how I made friends. I expected that I would make friends with people in my classes, like I did in high school. However, that was not the case at all. All of my friends were made on my dorm hall. If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a senior, I would tell myself to be extremely friendly, outgoing, and open right away with everyone on my hall. While I did manage to make friends with everyone on my hall eventually, it was hard becuase I was acting shy. I would make sure to tell myself to not be shy and attempt to make as many friends as possible, especially on my hall.

Go with your gut and don't be afraid to take a chance on unfamiliar things. It's okay to change your plans: no one will be upset with you if you do. While you know you won't be the smartest person here, you also aren't the dumbest: you're hardworking, determined, and stubborn (the good kind) and professors (as well as future employers) will take notice. Take time for yourself sometimes because hammering yourself into the ground makes things worse. Make time to unwind, relax, and if need be, go see someone at the PCC to help you cope with your anxiety problems.

My senior year of high school, I was faced with many difficulties, which at the time I thought were the end of the world. I fell into a slump that I could not get out of. Losing a family member and experiencing a tough break up not only consumed my mind at home but it also did at school as well. I missed a lot of school, let my grades slip and blew off my friends. While I did not stay in this funk for long, I still experienced damage, especially to my grades. Knowing what I know now I would tell myself that life goes on and whatever pain I am going through will only make me stronger in the long run. I would also tell myself to pull through the grief and make the best of my last year of high school, which I will never get back. I will never roam those halls or sit in those desks again so I need to go to class and excel like I know I can. I should not take my friends for granted, I will not see them everyday anymore. I would tell myself, greet the day and smile.