Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University Top Questions

I would tell myself that it isn't bad being away from your family and friends, you will meet great people whereever you go.

I would tell myself: The transition to college is not nearly as stressful as you think it will be. Go to a four year university insead of a community college. The transition from a community college to a university seems much harder for me now than from high school to college. Try not to give into seniorits as badly as you have. You are young, lighten up do not be so serious as often as you are. Focus on trying to figure out what you want to study so that you can focus on it. Do not become crippled by the fear of not having the money to go to college, insead try getting the money for college instead of fearing the process. Life is eventually all anyone has. It might be a test for the next life. This life might be all there is. Whatever you think and believe down the road remember that you could die today do not put off what you want to do. Do not leave your questions unaswered stand up and seek out the answer to every problem you feel needs to be answered. Get out there and being living; begin living your life.

Open your door. It is so important to keep your door open during the first few weeks of school. By doing so this allows for people to pop in and for acquaintances and friendships to be made. Developing friendships early on helps to fight off feelings of loneliness and the homesickness that so many freshman face. By opening the door to your mind, you are able to take in new experiences and look at them from an undistorted lens. In college, you are going to meet people who look at the world differently than you do. This doesn’t mean that you should change who you are, but you should recognize that everyone has a gift or a perspective that they can offer to influence your overall college experience. Finally, apply for scholarships! I didn’t realize how much of a burden paying for college would be. Taking on part time jobs during the school year is so difficult because it takes away from time that could be spent studying, getting involved with clubs, and time spent with friends. Apply for as many scholarships as possible because you’ll need all the help you can get.

In your first semester make studying a priority. Immerse yourself in the coursework and really gain an understanding for the material. Take every opportunity to study with a group and resist the urge to frequently check social media. The GPA you earn in the first semester will play a major role in the programs, scholarships, and clubs that you may want to participate in. The reality of how expensive college is doesn't hit until you receive your first bill regarding your student account. I highly recommend researching available scholarships and making it a priority to apply to as many as possible. Yes, taking the summer off to enjoy the pool and be with friends is very well deserved after your high school graduation. However, make sure to budget some time to sit down and apply for scholarships. It will be well worth your time and will save you some stress later on down the road. Finally, don't forget to have fun. College is a time for building relationships and connections. Become active in a club or group that interests and excites you! This is a great way to relieve stress after a hectic day. Good luck!

If I could go back and talk to my high school self, I would tell her to try and be more outgoing. To sign up to as many extra curricular activites as you can possibly find. I know it is hard to get out of your comfort zone but it will be worth it in the end. I would also tell her to have fun and not stress out so much. Be goal oriented and you will be successful in class and in life.

I know, I know, you think you’re a big shot. You glided almost untouchably through high school encased in a world still run and guided by teachers and parents. To you, the AP courses, SAT’s, and anything else high school could throw at you were a snap, and you think college will be, too. My advice to you is not to get too comfortable. Do not put yourself on cruise control through college. Work hard even in the courses you think you already know. Don’t let the independence of being on your own give you the false notion you don’t still have to work hard. Just because someone isn’t behind you with a hot poker does not mean you shouldn’t study hard and even overachieve. Now, you work for yourself. You decide your fate in college by the focus and work you give to it. Yes, you can indulge in some time with friends and clubs, but budget your time. In fact, make sure to do those things. Remember, you’re main job is to learn your major and find out who you are. Balance yourself accordingly and ultimately remember to enjoy life.

If i could give advice to my high school self I would tell myself to stay focused. I would no longer worry about the importance of the latest fashions, or who’s dating who, or even about attending the school football game on Friday nights. I would put my education first and foremost. I would study so much harder, and focus on my reason for being in high school in the first place. I would go to tutoring, and ask for help instead of being embarrassed because of what my peers would think or say about me for not understanding. I would not worry so much about extra-curricular activities although they're fun, I would make sure my studies are complete. I would stay after school for extra help and explain that i didn't understand the lesson from that, and or the previous day. I would completely tell my high school self that education should always be first priority. Because no matter what others can take from you, they cannot take your education and your knowledge from you.

If I was able to go back in time and give myself advice for the transition for college life, I would tell myself to stay strong and be a strong individual. Also, make sure you work really hard in classes do not slack always study every day after class about what you just learned, because this will help you get a the good grades you need to in order to go to grad school. I would tell myself to stay focused on what you want and do not let anyone get in the way of living up to your dreams. Even when your mom is going to move away from you, you need to stay strong and know what you need to achieve. Keep in mind that you can make it on your own just always stay positive and if obstacles come in your way once you get through them you know it will only make you stronger.

Dearest Former Self,You are about to go through major life changes and I know for a fact that you are excited and scared. I can’t tell you what is about to come your way because I cannot ruin the surprise. The surprise is what will make you and shape your entire future. But maybe just brace yourself. If I had to give advice though, I’d tell you that fear is a waste of time. You will never be entirely free of it, but you will learn to shuttle it through your mind and out of your system entirely. Just know that it takes effort—dedication. You have to be committed to your happiness to achieve this. You have to fight for it. Another thing I want you to ponder: happiness is a skill. Happiness does not arrive in the night like a secret guest, waking up from your floor all bright-eyed and bushy-tailed. Happiness is a petition and you have to get it signed. You have to ensure it reaches you, which is harder than you think. Fight though, and remember to respect life. Respect life and respect the importance of love. You got this.

If I had the chance, there are a few pieces of advice that I would offer to myself as a high school senior. To begin with, I would advise myself to give more time to activities outside the classroom. Throughout my first year of college, I have had the opportunity to do many extracurricular activities. I played on a few intramural sports teams and got involved in Greek life. But most importantly, I have gotten to do several community service and philanthropy events. Besides being a great resume builder, these kinds of events can offer an experience and incite into the real world that no classroom lecture can supply. All in all, I found out this year that giving back is a feeling that I wished I had discovered in high school. Furthermore, and slightly more trivial, I would advise myself to enjoy the little things that high school offers. I would emphasize attending dances and appreciating them in the moment. Also, appreciate the sports team unity and local rivalries. I have realized that high school is a once in a lifetime experience that passes too quickly. I would just tell myself to enjoy it.