American University Top Questions

What should every freshman at your school know before they start?

tristan

Do what you always do. That would be the advice to myself. I have never been a bad student i just choosed to focus on things differently. Only real advice would be to tell my self to focus on what is important. Understanding is the key to my fututre. Through out high school I had a tendency to not be concenr on grades or gpa. I had no direction in life until now. Everything i need was right in front of me back then and now it takes myself to relise that. I would have been capable of much more while younger if only i had someone to guide me through my confusing life.

Conchita

Understanding the concept of independence is harder than you realize. You’ve always been an independent daughter and student—never asking for help, because you were determined to figure it out on your own, but in college, you need a different kind of independence. Learn to take time to learn more about yourself. Don’t be afraid to let go of relationships you’ve had in the past. While they helped you become who you are, there is nothing wrong with outgrowing people. College is a time for you—not anyone else. It's okay to let go of people, but look for help when you need it; whether that help you need is financial, emotional, or academic, because looking for help does not make you weak; it makes you stronger and teaches you to be honest with yourself. Tell your family how much you love them every single day, because while you were younger and enjoyed being independent, you did not realize that the day would come that all you were looking for was a hug from mom and an “I love you” from dad. Finally, remember, it is okay not to rush your life. Act your age.

Ari

Hey, you. Yeah, with the face. You might think you're political, but just wait until you get to AU. The debates never end. In fact, you'll get so sick of politics that you'll end up majoring in psychology. And, you know what? You will love it. You will wonder why you didn't start with it. However, do not feel regret. The journey towards your goal is often greater than the goal itself. In the end, you choose to live in a beautiful, amazing city because of something you are passionate about. And even though your passion will change, and it may change again and again after that, you will never stop loving the city and the people in it.

Antoinette

Oh my dear, stop stressing! You will have no trouble choosing a college when the time comes, you will be able to manage everything you want to do. Don't listen to everyone that's telling you that you can't possibly handle a full course load, riding, playing your oboe and being on the newspaper. Oh and you will get a job that you are going to love! Classes are going to teach you so much more than just what is in their syllabus. You're going to make some amazing new friends, your heart is going to get broken (but don't worry, it gives you a lot to write about). Your first roommates, not so great, but your second set are FABULOUS. You won't sleep through your classes, your professors love you and you will find a place for you. Most importantly, don't worry about your grades. Do your best, but they don't determine your worth. Good luck with the rest of high school. By the way you get to give a speech at graduation! Happy senior year darling! Just wait until you see this new world that's waiting for you! Good luck!

Laura

If i could go back to my high school years I would make sure that I planned for my time in college. I moved to Washington, D.C. after visiting American University once and falling in love with the campus and the city. I would remember that college is a time for learning and exploring and to make sure that I made the most out of those four years. I would certain I studied abroad for a semester or a summer and looked into different cirricular areas. I would have made sure to join more organizations and maybe even greek life. Most of all I would have not worried so much about finding a job and really taken in my senior year of college without worrying about taking the LSAT's. I think my college experience was unique because I moved across the country for college but I know that American University was the right place for me because of the friends I have made, contacts I have kept, and the education I received.

Suzanne

Senior year without a doubt was one of the best years of my life. Prom, graduation, senior trips, senior retreat and bonding with friends basically consume the soon-to-be high school graduate. With so much going on, the importance of maintaining good grades and more importantly researching and making the best decision on where to go to college can often be clouded with all these social events. Most seniors don't exactly know what they want in a college, and that's perfectly fine. But it is so vitally important to do your research and look into whether or not a college has all the possible majors that you could possibly want to major in, because chances are, you will change your major on average three times. Believe in yourself, challenge your normalities, seek diversity and look for those doors that will give you the most success. Apply to all your reach schools and go to the best school you can, it will pay off. Regardless of where you go, it's you that will make your college experience; be open to everything, get involved as much as you can and be a friend to everyone.

Sameer

I would tell myself that it is important to be open minded. Being open minded is what leads to various positive impacts. Open mindedness in college leads to you being aware of things that you should take advantage of, such as office hours of your professors. Office hours are times of not only asking about certain quesitons you may have about the course, but also your future plans. Open mindedness is what allows you to be engaged in your major. If you are not engaged in major, where you do not know of what oppurtunities to take advantage of, such as research oppurtunities, internships, and research conferences. Then you are destined to fail in your field. That is why if I were a high school senior and I had been in a time where I experienced college life, I would tell myself to be open minded. Because, if you are not open minded, then you are not going to suceed in college or life.

Melissa

The advice I would give to myself would be to attend college promptly after high school. Your chances of actually going to college could potentially be decreased if you postpone attending for any length of time. Not to mention, you don't want to end up stuck in some dead end job making minimum wage for 10 years simply because a "promised" promotion to management sounded great at the time. Your education is detrimental to having an actual career in the field of work you desire. Furthermore, the longer you wait to attend college, the more likely you are to forget pertinent information. For example, many people forget basic algebra skills and have difficulty passing the placement tests to get into college. Rather than risk a loss of important and necessary knowledge needed for college courses, you should attend college directly after high school. In other words, do not delay! It is essential to your future and I promise you will not be disappointed in the decision to attend college immediately after high school. In fact, you will be glad you did it.

Natasha

College is more than about how your life in the future will be. You need to think about how you want to spend the next four year before you think about the next twenty. I know you don't know what you want to do, and that is okay you will change your mind even when you think you have figured it out. Go to a school that will challenge you, but not break your bankand that will offer you every opporunity you deserve, but not make you unhappy. No matter how expensive it may seem at the time, tour the school! It really shows you the atmosphere of the place and offers you insights that you otherwise would have been blind to. This is not meant to be a short process--do not rush. Just breathe and find a place you will be happy and succesful at. Whatever you choose, as long as it is 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} your choice , you will do great.

Alyssa

I would tell myself that college is a big transition, and it will be very scary. I would also tell myself not to sweat the small stuff and to be sure to look at the bigger picture when making decisions. I would be sure to reassure myself that it was all going to be ok. Additionally, I would tell myself not to procrastinate, because staying up all night is never worth it, and starting off a semester sleep deprived is not the key to success. I would remind myself that planning out my work and making a homework schedule is a great way to stay on top of my work and make sure everything gets done. Finally, I would reassure myself that talking to professors when there are issues or if I am struggling is never a bad thing, and to not be ashamed to reach out and ask for help.

LaCresha

Slow down and enjoy life as a young adult. You must buckle down and do what you have to do in order for you to live the life you desire later. You have all your life to party and have fun and there is a time for everything. You must stay focused on what's important and do everything you can to be successful because it's hard to be happy living in poverty. Education is the key to success. Having the prettiest face, the best body, or the most friends will get you nothing with longevity in life. Knowledge and education can never be taken away. Do your best to be the best!

Alyssa

Spend more time applying for scholarships, and don't slack off senior year

Courtney

College can either be the best experience of your life or the complete opposite. Going into this next chapter of life, I’d advise you to take your time. Everyone has this idea that you must graduate in 4 years. Don’t try to rush through. Taking 12 credit hours versus 15 credit hours can make all the difference in a successful semester. It may take an additional semester or two, but your GPA won’t suffer. Don’t forget the reason you’re there. College provides some of the greatest learning opportunities as well as many amazing parties. That’s part of the experience, but don’t lose sight of your goals. A party should not replace your study time. You may have to pass on some social activities in order to get work accomplished. Be involved on campus. Meet people and begin networking. Join clubs and become part of different organizations, holding leadership roles if possible. The bonds you form with students and faculty are what really make college worthwhile. This provides a chance to try new things and create lifelong memories and friendships. These things will make for the greatest experience of your life, your college experience.

Chevelle

Cost does matter. Fill out a bunch of applications and see who gives you the most money. It's not worthy going into insane amounts of debt over this.

Dahlia

Make more friends to have good social life at college while working hard; prepare and get ready for the challenge because college life is different than high school.

Melissa

I know that I would probably be too stubborn to listen to a futuristic image of myself, so writing a letter would be the best option. Melissa, I know that you think you know exactly what you what to do in life, but I'm letting you know that you don't. If you go to college right out of high school, you will be making the wrong decision. I know that sounds crazy right now, but just listen. You will have a lot of debt for nothing, because you will change your mind at least three more times before you know what you want to do. You will travel to other states, and meet amazing people working seasonal jobs. You WILL find out what you are made of and who you are meant to become. Don't sell yourself short, and above all believe in yourself. Even though life is hard and you won't have very much emotional or financial support, you'll realize that is why you learned to work all through high school. You are a strong woman. Above all, love yourself for who are, and who you are becoming. I love you, Melissa Daniels

Siena

From my experience at American University, I would tell myself as a high school senior to start applying to scholarships early. College is expensive and I may not be able to attend American University for the 2013-2014 year due to the high cost of the school. If I had applied to scholarships earlier, I might have been able to stay at my dream school with less problems. I would also tell myself to spend as much time as possible with friends and family; it is hard being several states away, especially when you are "the new kid".

Amanda

I would say go to college, don't party, take it seriously and stay in your studies as well as be involved in college more than just classes.

Jacob

If I could go back in time and give myself advice for starting college the advice would be simple. I would tell myself that I'm going somewhere where everyone was about as smart as me and I can't get away with coasting through anymore. I needed to grow up and build up a competitive edge. There's only so far you can get without trying and having to do more work doesn't make you less intelligent. I'd also tell myself to not let anyone else dictate what I do with my life. I have let people control my actions for far too long and it's about time for me to grow a pair and take charge.

Bove

Dear Gianna, Stop worrying and take a deep breath because college is not as difficult as you think it is going to be. The transition will go much smoother than you can even believe imaginable right now! A few points of advice: 1. Read more! Learn to enjoy reading, become faster, and learn how to pick out important information. This is essential for college, your teachers are not lying. 2. Utilize the library and take your research papers seriously. You must become an expert database navigator, so practice now and become friends with the librarian. 3. When your teachers say revise, revise. You can raise your grade by an entire letter. Seriously. 4. Pack less! Everything you are used to at home will be available where you are going. 5. Talk to kids who are already in college, especially ones who are already attending your college. They will have tips and secrets to make life and the transition easier … and ways to save money! * Most importantly enjoy your last few months of high school and when you get to college, enjoy every second and take advantage of every opportunity because it flies by just as quickly as high school did!

Conner

Don't be afraid to get involved, try new things, talk to new people and just have fun. As long as your head is in the right place, your grades will be fine - but these years go by way too fast to be worried about grades all the time. Explore the city more, take advantage of all the things the campus and DC has to offer. Learn the bus system by just getting on it and getting lost! See all of the museums! Go to concerts and talks! These are years far too important to waste. And staying busy and distracted is the perfect way to meet people and will ease the transition from home life to college life. There is a reason you came all the way out to DC for college, don't forget it!

Matthew

While there are many factors affecting the selection of a college, place an emphasis on the value of the education received. I found myself easily adaptable to widely differing campuses and school cultures; thus, retrospectively I would approach the selection process like a finance calculation (weigh the full cost of attendance against the anticipated long term value of the degree earned). In order to calculate the anticipated long term value, I would advise myself to: Fully understand the value derived from a college with a strong brand. Simultaneously, be cognizant that there are a multitude of highly competitive opportunities available to students from lesser-known schools. A high performing student from a mid or low-level university may be afforded more opportunities than an average student at a well known school, because recruiters and hiring managers appreciate achievement. Thus, consider the ability to excel when factoring for strength of the brand.

Emily

First and foremost I appreciate this opportunity. I would tell myself work hard and strive to the best I can be. I was fortunate to be selected to the rotary youth exchange program and spent time in Spain learning the culture and language. This was a lifelong dream of mine and one fullfilled next is to become a medical doctor. I will start my freshman year this fall and want to be a pediatric plastic surgeon. Very Respectfully, Emily McElwaine

Heather

If I could give myself any advice about college life and the transition, it would be have confidence in yourself. I am not going to lie. The transition from high school to college can be intimidating. Class sizes go frm 25 students to 300 students, and professors could care less if you pass. However, it is possible to thrive in college. It's important to take studying seriously and find what study method works for you. It is different for every person. Get involved in an activity you love, becuase that will make the transition smoother. However, none of this will happen if you are not confident with your abilities. So go in to school brave and confident. You are ready for this. You will not fail. You will have a blast.

Stephanie

Stop messing around, pay attention in class, and concentrate on your grades. If you don't, you will be 29 years old on unemployment raising an 8 year old little girl by yourself. Why? Because the "boy" that's distracting you right now in high school, is going to be a good for nothing in 12 years. Then, you will be forced to wait until your almost 30 to finally begin school, making it much much harder to obtain your college degree 11 years out of high school as an adult with adult responsibilities!

Joseph

After my first year of college, being able to talk to myself when I was a senior in high school would have greatly impacted where I am right now. I have always thought of myself as a good student and one thing sticks out to me that I would share with my high school senior self that would help better my college self. During my senior year I was fortunate enough to be accepted into my schools porter scholar program and I was able to take a class at Beloit College during my first semester of my senior year. This experience really helped show me what college was going to be like and made the transition much easier. However, I was not able to take part in this program my second semester due to the number of advanced placement classes I was enrolled in. Knowing what I know now, I would tell myself to do anything possible to take advantage of the porter scholar program again to gain more college experience and make my transition from high school to college even easier for me.

Kyle

I would tell myself to take high school much more seriously. There are a ton of scholarships out there for students, but to get them you need to stand out. I stayed in with the pack when I was in high school and never took any opportunities to shine bright as a student. I wish I took advantage of all the clubs, organizations, and activities that were offered and exposed myself to more experiences. I also wish I was more focused in high school on my academics. I had the potential to be a great student, I just lacked the drive back then to do so (it must have been those teenage hormones...). But when I went to community college I knew exactly what I needed to do to succeed, and earned a 3.9 GPA. I cannot change the past, but I learned from my mistakes and actively participate in class and focus on my studies, while also taking the time to join school organizations at my current university. At the end of the day the best advice is to live life to the fullest and enjoy every step of the way, happiness is the greatest gift of all.

Jessica

As a high school senior, I was just like everyone else: apprehensive, intimidated, confused, and at the same time wildly excited. College was coming up almost too quickly; I was leaving my friends, family, and most of what I knew behind to start a new life in DC. As college towns go, DC has never exactly been the most welcoming, but it certainly turned out to be the most rewarding. So, looking back on those days, what would I tell myself? Relax! Everything is going to be okay. Being stressed is not going to get you anywhere, I promise. I think that any student entering college really needs to be reminded of this. It is important to remember that this is a time meant for being confused, messing up, and figuring things out! College is not nearly as scary as it seems. I feel that I still need this little pep talk as I continue through school, and I can guarantee that I will need this advice for the rest of my life. But sitting down, making myself a list, and taking a deep breath has gotten me through pretty much every struggle I have come up against thus far.

Rachel

If I could talk to myself when I was a high school senior, I would tell myself not to worry about the unkown and enjoy the journey of life. Although I knew I was going to American Univeristy in December (I applied early decision), I was worried about the future. Would I have the same friends from high school? Did I make the wromg choice? I am too far from home? Will I like the professors and will they like me? I obessed over these questions and I now realize that I should have known that there will be ups and downs, but that in the end I made the right decision. I would tell myself to enjoy the adventure of college life.

Robin

You don't need to sleep with the first guy who brings you a beer at a toga party. But if you do, don't beat yourself up about it. You don't need to go on a desperate search for a boyfriend just because you're no longer a virgin and yet you've never had a boyfriend. But if you do, just do it in a laid back fashion. When you meet your first true love sophomore year, you don't need to dump him for the blonde ROTC guy. But if you do, don't expect to ever marry your first true love (you might be better off without him anyway.) And about academics, well, just listen carefully in class and read as much as you can of the text. Whatever you do, don't worry too much about the tests and papers. Life will be life, and grades will happen. Just love yourself unconditionally, study what you're passionate about, and live life to the fullest.

Renee

I was raised in a very non-traditional family and was not permitted to attend high school. I took it upon myself to acquire a GED with only my sixth grade education, work ethic, and self-motivation. However, I did not understand the need to attend college until I was 24 and pregnant with my second child, waiting tables. If I could go back in time, I would encourage myself to not stop at my GED. Having completed my associate’s degree in biology and starting on a biochemistry degree, I wish I would have just started taking classes right away, even though I didn't know exactly what I wanted to do. The point is to always keep moving forward, even if it's just in baby steps. The purpose of a college education is not just for a degree but for life transformation. Each class you take molds you as a person and contributes to personal growth and self-discovery. Every step you take leads you closer to what you desire and a college education gives you the tools you need to realize your dreams and become, not just personally successful, but a productive member of society.

Lorraine

I would advise myself as a high school senior to be confident about following my dreams, and to ignore what others say about how irrational it is. Dreams are for achieving.

Elise

Work hard to get into your dream school and don't take no for an answer. Be realistic about the financial burdens of your chosen school. Some times chosing to go to a different less expensive school can be a wise choice.

Alex

I would tell myself to really get on the ball and to look and apply for as many scholarships that i can. I did not take that seriously in high school and am finding it difficult to be eligable for as many scholarships now. I would also tell myself to do more volunteer work, and apply for more schools that I was interested in. I started at my current school without even really knowing where it was until July of that year. I always knew I was going to college right out of high school even though I wasn't sure what I wanted to go for but when it came time to do everything I didn't and it is hurting me a bit now. I love my school, the people, and opportunities that I have been able to experience but one of the best transitions would have been to not worry about the money. Even being a Phi Theta Kappa member, it is still difficult to find school funding that isn't out of my pocket.

Angela

I used to think that college would be a waste of my time and money, especially right out of high school. I thought I was in love and wanted to get married. I wish a thousand times over that I had gone to college after graduating from high school. Becuase I did not go to college, I made some very bad decisions, I have a hard time paying bills and my children want things that I can't afford to give them. Go to college Angie and do it right the first time. Make a life for yourself and the family you will have. You grew up poor, don't have your children grow up the same way. They will deserve better. You won't have to worry about having a stable job. You will have the education you need to aquire a stable job, and make amazing money, and keep that job. You are smarter than you give yourself credit for. Don't waste your life. Go to college. You won't regret it. Don't go to college, and you will pay for it the rest of your life.

Molly

Be open to change. I came from a very small, rural high school to a large, urban, college in Washington, D.C. These two areas are about as different as can be, and it has been one of the best experiences of my life. In order to know more about the world, to grow as an individual, and to gain new perspective, one must experience living in a new environment then they are comfortable with. And this is what college is great for. Try new things. Learn to be independent and don't be afraid to live on your own. I was terrified to live so far away from home in such a different place, but knowing what I know now, I realize that it is not as scary as it seems. There are many students going through the same things and feelings as you and many other people who are willing to help. The number one thing I would tell myself is to be confident that I can adapt to a new environment and thrive on my own. I think so many college students never grasp this and end up missing out on a wonderful growing experience.

Arielle

Knowing what I know now about college life, I would give myself some major advice about life and making the transition from a high school senior to a college student. I would talk to myself about the possible majors I could choose from. I would take some more time and learn about different possibilities. I would tell myself that I have made a good choice in attending the community college first to get my AA in early childhood education before transferring to the 4-year university to become a psychology major. I would assure myself that although life may throw me some mean curve balls; I have the power, intelligence and courage to continue to persevere through any challenge. My parents have raised me well. I am a fighter, and I will never give up. The most important thing I would tell myself would be to always strive to do my best. Anything is possible with continuous effort. I would be sure to thank all my family, friends and teachers for the extra efforts they provided to me. Overall, I would be very supportive to myself and take my advice. Who knows, maybe I could win a scholarship! Thank You.

Jamie

I would remind my senior high school self to savor and take advantage of all of the unique opportunities that you only get as an undergraduate. This is the only time in your life that you have the freedom and resources to really discover yourself and the world around you. It's totally acceptable and encouraged to go new places, try new things, change jobs, and generally live life to the fullest in a way that will be impossible or reckless once you are a college graduate in the "real world." I would also advise my high school self to go to a school away from home and live on campus for at least a year or two. I didn't do this until my junior year of college and by then I had missed out on a lot of the relationships and experiences that other students had from living on campus since they were freshman. Living on campus also helps you academically since you're fully immersed in the university life. College is just as much about personal growth as it is academics, so the more you throw yourself into it the more you will get out of it.

Megan

* You really, really, really don't need the unlimited meal plan. You probably don't need the 200 meal plan, either. The dining hall food is actually pretty good, and I'm generally satisfied with it, but you would get tired of eating there every single meal seven days a week. You probably won't be eating three square meals a day, either-- I always did until I came here. Almost everyone has leftover meal swipes at the end of the year. *Do rent a mini-fridge, and bring a small vacuum cleaner. The instructions say not to get extra-long sheets, but my regular-sized ones always had trouble fitting on the mattresses (which are extremely comfortable, by the way). *The metro is awesome, but the costs do add up. Bear that in mind when saving your cash. That said, there are many wonderful free things to do in the city. Sign up for sites like Scoutmob and Groupon that will help you find deals! The metro also frequently has delays, so always leave a little bit earlier than you need to. *Don't worry about picking a major right away. You don't have to declare until sophomore year. Take classes in areas that interest you to help you narrow it down-- you might like the idea of majoring in International Relations, but you might hate the classes themselves. *No matter what, you will never get as much sleep as you think you will. *Don't just cling to the same people that you met during welcome week. The people I know who formed super-super-de-duper close friendships during the first days generally feel awkward around those people now. Take it slow and be open-minded in making new friends-- it's not summer camp, and it's not middle school. *The Davenport Lounge in the SIS building is awesome, much better than Starbucks. I don't even drink coffee, and it's still one of my favorite spots. *Wearing WONK t-shirts is not a good idea at all. Students here HATE Wonk. *Joining a club that you love will change every aspect of your college career. Don't be scared to try new things-- you'll have so much more fun (and if you decide to drop an activity, don't worry. It's the beginning of the year, and people won't judge you). *Most places on campus are closed after 8 on weekend nights. It's very hard to buy food on-campus in the evenings. Luckily, lots of restaurants off-campus deliver. *Definitely go to office hours with your professors. *Smithsonian museums (and the zoo) are FREE! Lots of people don't know that, and they're one of the best parts of the city. You can also get tours of places like the Capitol building for free. *Best inexpensive and delicious place to eat? Amsterdam Falafel in Adams Morgan. A college student's best friend for sure. Even if you've never had falafel, pay them a visit.

Lauren

It's hard for me to answer this because I was homeschooled half of my junior and senior year. The community college I was attending seemed just like high school to me, so there was really no transistion. I really want to make a change in my life and be dedicated and transfer to a four year college. All though, if I could go back to high school and tell myself what I do know now, I would tell myself that high school really isn't that important. Make the best of it and don't get caught up in the drama.

Felicia

I would tell myself not to worry too much about the the college expereince itself. Although it may seem long and perilous, embrace the journey for what it is and enjoy every moment of it. Take advantage of the opportunities and connections forged during this time. Friends come and go, but the real ones will stay loyal, regardless of the presiege of your internship or the Greek organization you are affiliated with. Don't be afraid of attending professors' office hours, regardless of how many you have, you will eventually find one or two that will mentor and guide you. Above all, learn everything you possibly can, for it will come in handy later in life.

Claire

One of the best things I ever did as a Freshman in college was to get involved with a learning community and a study group of students and upperclassmen from the outset. My university provided learning communities to enhance the classroom and living experience on campus. Doing this helped me to meet almost all of my closest friends at school and it allowed us to really delve deep into our common academic interests and teach each other through our different prospectives. It is easy to retreat back to your side of the room in the dorms, or to keep to yourself in class, but if you get involved with a learning community you quickly provide yourself with a supportive academic network and a fun social group for you to spend time with, learn about yourself, and become comfortable around people who are different from you. This also is a great way to practice building your network because if you become closely acquainted with students and staff interested in your choice of academic studies, they can act as the building blocks for your professional future outside of college.

Kay

Hey, you there. Take the red pass and come into the hallway, I need to talk to you. Okay, first of all: Stop stressing about your reputation; don't assume that this building will contain every aspect of your life. You haven't even gotten started in life. The university you will attend is one of the most accepting schools in the country (with some exceptions, but you'll find that out later). Also, the friends you have in high school will, for the most part, forget about you once you've been out of their presence for a while. You will make new friends. Secondly: It's time to put more effort into practicing and playing your viola, because the symphony orchestra at college is HARDCORE. You won't pull off Sibelius Symphony No.2 by practicing "Eleanor Rigby" over and over. Finally: You've made so many life-altering mistakes, but they will be erased and your conscience will be cleared. Get ready for battle, because you're entering a morally-corrupt world as a young Christian student, and you'll need to be in good spiritual shape. Now that you know this: don't stress, just anticipate.

Erin

My first semester in college at American University was spectacular academically and socially within the context of my new home. However, if I could go back and give myself a pep-talk before I got out here, I would most emphasize the importance of keeping all of my relationships back home as strong as ever. Unfortunately, the only downside of my first semester was dealing with disintegrating friendships and ties to all of my friends left back home. For a few months, I had a tough time dealing with lost friendships and lost love, but I have now managed to rebuild the bridges that had been burned down. So, high school senior me, I would tell you not to let the freedom get to your head and remember just who loves you and who will always be there for you, no matter what. That and, you're going to have a great time out there. Good luck.

Jesse

I graduated one year early from high school, so I would say my experience was a little different from most. In retro-spect, high school was simply not a good fit for me. I have always been a self motivated student, and I did not like the rigid structure, rules, and regulations that high school emphasized. Without a doubt, college is a lot of work. But the schedule of college offers much more flexibility, and in my personal opinion, a much healthier lifestyle. No longer do I have to be in homeroom promptly at 7:25 like in high school. I am very self-disciplined academically, but for people that tend to be procrastinators, be careful in college. Waiting until 2:00 am to begin an 8 page paper due the next day is not a good idea. College is the most pivotal time in a young person's life, and it is a time when you as an individual truly discover who you are, and where you want to go in life.

Heather

I’ve gotten a lot out of my college experience. First, I’ve learned a lot from the classes: the professors are very knowledgeable in their fields (some are national experts) and good at conveying this knowledge to their students. I’ve also learned, perhaps more importantly, how to relate to and get along with people from other countries, cultures, and religions. Christians, Muslims and Jews go to class, live, and work together here. Coming from a small, rural town in Tennessee, I never experienced this kind of mixture and tolerance before coming to American University. I’ve also had to learn about how to manage my time without my teachers or parents looking over my shoulder and giving me specific directions. That has been a challenge, but as the year progresses I’ve learned to get up at the same time even when I don’t have classes to get things done and spend more time in the library. Besides making me a more educated person, college is also shaping me into the more responsible, open-minded person that I want to be.

Sarah

The most valuable thing I've gotten out of my college experience so far is the actual value I've developed for my education and my future. I have a new-found interest in learning as much as I can. Even if it's regarding a class that has nothing to do with my future career, I sincerely put all my effort in taking in as much information as I can. Not only does it come in handy when I'm competing with friends while watching jeopardy, but I know that the more information I take in, the more open-minded I become. And I truly believe that open-mindedness is a quality neccessary in achieving one's highest potential in life. Even from taking just one cross-cultural communication class, I feel as if I've developed an entirely new understanding of what it is to be accepting, respectful, and indisciminate towards other people, no matter their race, religion, character, or even appearance. I most likely would've never been so open-minded, and therefore successful in the future, if it weren't for my incredible college experience thus far. And I could not be more thankful for that.

Melissa

College is more than just studying and going to class. It is a life changing experience. I have learned some of the most valuable lessons that anyone can learn. First of all, college is a good way to transition from High School into adulthood. Although the professors are very helpful, you are completely responsible for your own success and your own failure, while still being in a setting where there is some chaperoning. Because American University is very culturally diverse I am exposed to a lot of different type of people from various backgrounds, which has made me more cultured and opened my eyes how the rest of the world operates. In High School a lot of times many people are exposed to only one demographic. Going to college has been a real eyeopener. In order to make a impact on more peoples live it is essential to be aware of where they come from and how they operate. The diversity of American Univeresity has allowed me this experience.

Nicole

Experience and knowledge is an invaluable tool. Attending college gives a person both those things. The knowledge and the experience that I have gained at college has helped me to grow as a person and a student. I often am presented with challenges in both my school life and work life, which I have learned how to managed thanks to living on my own and being responsible for my own work. Knowledge is power. The more one knows can only improve how they interact in society as well as in the work world. Working is essential for the survival of the American people. Given that we operate as a democracy it is important for US citizens to be well educated for the success of our country, and for personal success. Education is invaluable and attending college helps people (like me) become more worldy and grow in new ways.

Kiahna

My college experience has been a constant adventure in discovering who I am as a developing adult. The fast pace college lifestyle has challenged me to balance large amounts of schoolwork, all-nighters, the thrills of dorm life, past friends and new friendships, part-time jobs, family, and large amounts of free food. My college experience has and is continuing to prepare me for working in the feared "real world", whether learning how to manage my finances or how to manage my increasing pile of dirty laundry. My college experiences have allowed me to travel to Switzerland and Italy to study with students from around the world, and these multicultural relationships are truly valuable as I pursue an education in International Relations. My college experiences have opened new opportunities for me to understand with increasing clarity the world Ilive in and how I can contribute to the bettering of it in my future. College has been so valuable to me because I am being pushed to seek the tools necessary for my future success. I am constantly motivated to understand, appreciate, experience, and learn about the world that interests me to no end. I am thankful for my college experience.