Auburn University at Montgomery Top Questions

The advice I would give my younger self would be to not give up. Life will throw you one curve ball after another but you can do anything you set your mind to. You're going to make mistakes and have set backs but it's ok, it will be hard work but you can get through it. There will be days where you feel like you are stuck in quick sand and going nowhere fast with your life but you have to keep moving. Do not let anything come in between you and your dreams. You are unstopable!

I would tell my high school self several things. Some that would help me academically and some that would just help me overall. The first thing that I would tell myself is to try and find a tutor to help with all of my AP classes, so that I could have had a better chance on the AP exams. The second thing is, to take my saxophone home and pratice. My saxophone is a great way to relax and I feel like I would be more inclined to play it now if I were more skilled at it. The third thing would be to start filling out scholarships in the ninth grade. I would tell myself this because I have seen the stress that my college tution is putting on my mom and I will do anything in my power to help her. The last thing I would tell myself is to relax and have fun. High School is supposed a time where you figure out exactly who you are. That way when you get to college you can try to understand yourself and find out what your strenghts and weaknesses are.

If I could go back in time, I would tell my high school self to FOCUS on you work. You do not have time to play around. It is cruntch time. College is not joke so you have to take high school very seriously. Strive to improve your GPA so that you can earn scholarships. Loans are definetely not the way to go! If only you could see now, how paying for your education is stressing your family out. Help yourself out. Straighten up and fly right girl! You can do this. If you want to be somebody and go somewhere you better wake up and pay attention. Study harder! The number one thing is to keep God first, because without him you can't do a thing. Have faith in him and he will see that you make it. If it is in God's will then you will make it.

If I could go back to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to enjoy my time in high school. College has been great, but so was high school. I would tell myself to not wish my final year away because once it was gone, I could not get it back. I would tell myself to enjoy the moments I was in. It is funny when I remember how I thought I had a lot of homework then. I would tell myself to make the most of my time with friends because we would be going our separate ways after graduation. I remember how nervous I was about starting college, so I would tell myself not to worry; college is not scary. And most importantly, I would tell myself to have fun. As we have all heard before, you never know what you have until it is gone. High school graduation was not the end of my story but the beginning of a new adventure.

Dear Self, I am writing this letter from the future. First off, congratulations on graduating high school! I'm proud of you! Now that you're about to enter into the college world, I would like to share some nuggets of wisdom with you. I call these my "3 Golden Rules to Being Amazing". Listen closely because these words can change your life. #1.) EMBRACE ADVERSITY: College can bring about many obstacles and challenges. For the first time in your life, you are going to be solely responsible for solving problems that will arise in your life. Look at these problems as opportunities to learn #2.) Never accept failure. #3.) Don't let anything or anyone define you, except you

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school student, I would make sure I know to stay focused. It is very easy to get off track in college. I would tell my self that responsibility is huge, and that there is no one in college to hold your hand like they do in high school. In college everyday you have to be your parent, such as waking yourself up on time for class, eating right, studying, and making big choices, I would warn my self about parties. Sometimes just staying in and studying is a better choice. I would also tell myself about friends. In college you have to be careful about who you hang around and call your friends. Sometime you have to sit back and observe your surroundings learning to do's and dont's. College is a big step and If I could go back and talk to myself as a senior these would have been the things that I would have wanted someone to tell me, because it matters and its important, and could help make a diffrence today.

I would tell myself to not slack off at all. I would tell myself to battle senioritis with everything I've got. I would make sure that I pass every class. I would tell myself to spend more time studying and less time sleeping. I would let me know that everything will turn out fine and to not worry about girls so much. I would make sure that I know the importance of a good friend. Then, I would make sure I know the importance of my mother and father.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school student I would stress to myself that college is just a higher level of education that betters me to reach my goals. I would remind myself not to let college change me for the worst but to make me realize that I am here for an education and to become a better wiser individual. College gives more responsibility than high school does. I would pressure myself to realize my core values and the thing that makes me. College opens up new doors of life experiences. No one is a perfect individual, I would tell myself that I might make mistakes but every day I would need to constantly remind myself that I needed to become better. Excuses isn’t a pass to fail or not to not put my best foot forward. I would stress remember who I am.

I tell myself, with a smile, "Victoria, I know this is not where you want to go, but trust me it is where you need to be. You will meet a group of people that will forever change your life and that will continue to thrive with you in years to come. Best of all, you and your best friends you graduated high school with are still besties and because you all have matured, so has your realtionships with eachother. You will fall in love with a man named Jesus and forever be changed. So with no regrets, power through the struggles, and cast down the ill thoughts that this is not where you belong. This is your beginning :-)"

If I were to give myself advice, I would really encourage myself to apply to scholarships and study for the entrance exam so that I could attain the best scores for myself. Getting involved will look great for your fututre. Get as involved as you can. Participate in college activities, volunteer work and service learning projects.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, the advice I would give myself is to apply for many scholarships. By me thinking that the military would pay for everyhting, I did not take advantage of the opportunity to apply for scholarships like I should have. Finding out that the military would only pay for my tuition and books, it left me struggling to pay for my room, board, and fees.

I would tell them to work hard at the beginning of every semester so at the end of the semester, it is easier. It is so much harder to work from being behind. I would also say study for tests you don't think you need to , because sometimes you will.

I would tell myself that this is the time to focus on my education. The sky is the limit for me at this point in my life. You can not get very far in life if you don't have a college education. There is plenty of time after college to travel, get married, have children etc. Making the transition from high school to college will be a wonderful experience that will help me grow and mature as a young adult. All the hard work that I will put in to studying and attending various different classes will definately be worth it, especially on graduation day!

If I could go back in time and give myself advice, I would tell myself to get better study habits. I would also tell myself to ask more questions and get help with writing essays. I would tell myself not to fall asleep in class and keep up the good work. I would also tell myself to apply for scholarships early in the summer so that I would a better chance of recieving them. I would say that college is not going to be anything like high school and that all the goofing off in class and not paying attention is not going to help me succeed in college.

First of all, keep your head in the books! You're going to be tempted to go out to the bars with your friends on school nights and skip classes because they don't take attendance; but I am telling you now, stay focused! Keep your grades up and don't get behind in your classwork. Remember to have fun and be kind to all those you come in contact with. Give a friendly smile to those passing by, because you never know when you might be that frindly glance that brightened up a another person's bad day. Always respect your professors, but if there is something you don't understand, ask them for help. I know they will be intimidating, but they want to see you succeed just as much as anyone else, so they will be happy to help you; after all that's what they are there for. Get involved in activities on campus! And always remember who you are, never lose yourself!

I have learned so much from my school. Especially from my major, school of nursing, I have learned co-working with my classmates. As an international student, I was uncomfortable with my classmates due to difference of culture and language. However, they helped me get through the course so as faculty. Besides, we have helped each other through team project and clinical experiences. Therefore, I am much more comfortable with them and they become my friends not just as classmates. As a nurse, I need to work as a team. Team-working is essential to work as well as to live. I have learned fundamental living resource from my school and my classmates. I have gotten leadership skills and how to improve team decision making from the team working. Team working is the most essential to me to work through my rest of university life as well as for my future career. It is very valuable experience in my studying in the United States. I have learned many new things that I could not experience in my country. Almost all of my experiences in the U. S. are valuable to me no matter what they are.

What have I gotten out of my college experience? Well, this lies in the fact that while many students are on a journey to find themselves, I have already completed my search. College has helped me to complete this journey. I have found my purpose in life, which is to inspire people. Whatever career path I choose, I will ensure that I can directly impact someone's life along the way. This inspiration could be in the form of healing words, a friendly gesture, or even just a smile. In addition, college has been a valuable experience because it has taught me that I can't look towards it to answers all of life's questions. College can't answer questions such as "Why am I here?" or "What should I do with my life?" Only I can answer those questions. The single most important thing college has taught me has been how to think critically, which can be used in my future career and professional endeavors. Therefore, I have a great respect for institutions of higher learning. I realize that not everyone gets a chance to attend, so I feel blessed that I am able to!

Me going to college has broadened my veiw on people and life. Prior to me going to college, I was raised in a predominantly black neighborhood where mom kept me close to the family to make sure I did not get into trouble. Growing up in certain neighborhoods, a person can easily think that what they see is all that there is to life. Coming to college has taught me contrary. I have been given a plethra of options on what to do with my life and I owe it to college. Being in the midst of my teachers of whom have vast backgrounds have both taught and inspired me to believe my dream is as far as I allow it to be. That pushes me to go after them harder because I know and believe that it is possible to obtain them. Considering I am the first to go to college, this sets milestone within my family by letting my younger brother, sister, & cousins know that all things are achievable and they can do whatever it is they put their mind too and whenever they may have doubt, they can can look to me as a living testament.

The AUM Liberal Arts staff has provided me with a strong love for anthropology. Students with this major have typically smaller classes and very good student/teacher contact. I loved how much time I could spend with the professors both inside the classroom and out of class projects. Most teachers are very excited about what they?re teaching and inspire students to get involved, interested, and enthusiastic about the topics, discussions and lectures. And enthusiasm and involvement result in good grades.

I have learned that I make my own future. If I want t join a group, I must make the effort. If that group does not exist, I must create it. I have learned that there are many people that are smarter than me and are willing to help if I just ask. I have come across many different perspectives and I have learned that all of them are valid. I have learned many things to help me in my profession and in my everyday life. This has been a valuable experience to me because it teaches me everyday to reach out my hand and take opportunities, even if it involves some work. I have learned the value of that hard work and I have seen the amazing results that can come from it. I learned that I can not only work and succeed for me and m purposes but also for my community.

Pray

That first semester of freedom from parents and high school teachers can be liberating, but do not let yourself forget the responsibilities you have to yourself and your future. Time management skills will determine the type of student you will become. Learn to balance class time, study time and free time. Too much free time can be a distraction from the purpose of college. Ask questions and make friends. Everyone was a freshman at some point. Talk to your professors. The majority are willing to help if they know that you want to learn. Think about the career choice you make. Get a job in the field before you devote years of your life to a study that you do not enjoy.

If given such an oppurtunity to speak to my former-self, I would tell myself to prepare for the unexpected and to not make assumptions or judge a book, and/or university, by its cover. Because of family health issues, I was unable to start college directly out of high school. Thusly, I would also prepare myself for that situation; but in doing so, advise myself not to give up hope for my family or my education because things will and do turn out for the best.

As a high school senior looking to attend a college, I would advise myself (and many others) to wait a few years to think over what it is that I want to do with my life. That time would allow me to experience life (working, living on my own, taking care of myself-i.e: no asking parents for money) in order to really appreciate what I could earn and acheive through getting a degree. In addition, this would cause me to take school much more seriously, therefore, learning more and getting a better GPA.

If I could go back I think that I would tell myself that it wasn't as important to know right out of high school what exactly I wanted to do with my life. I'm not condemning people who do know and accomplish that but I think for myself it would have been easier to transition if I could have still taken my classes seriously but also taken the time to really focus on who I actually was and not who I thought I should be. It took me a while to realize this. Not a lot of time but enough to know that the break I took wasn't the end of the world and that I knew for sure where I needed to be school-wise and where I wanted to be career-wise. I would just let myself know that things that are meant to be will be and there is no need to rush and make sure that you enjoy the journey that gets you there.

If I could go back in time i would tell myself that it it very important that I be organized, because with all the class assignments and projects going on it is important that you do everything on time and tell it in on time. Unlike highschool teachers, college teaters aren't going to remind you when something is do. They aren't going to accept late assignments. So if you fail to turn assignment in before that class start on the day that the assignment it is due, then its your fault and there no excuses for y ou not turning your work in except for the fact that you weren't as responsible as you should have been.

If I could go back in time I would tell myself that in order to have a good transition into college you must be self motivated and stay on top of all issues. I would tell myself that at college nobody is going to just hand things to me that I must work for what I want.

If there were ever a time in my life where I could go back and talk to myself, it would DEFINITELY be at some point during the end of my senior year. I would stress the importance of applying for financial aid early, because I did not realize how EXPENSIVE books, materials and tuition would actually be. I would also advise myself to get the highest score possible on the ACT but also to take the SAT(which I did not do). If I could go back and talk to my previous self, I would explain how important good grades and a solid transcript are in the determination of financial aid. I would also encourage myself to get involved in school and community activities to help build a polished resume to include with a strong transcript as part of my financial aid application, because universities tend to admire students who are intelligent but also who are well rounded. Finally, I would advise myself to be the best person I could be and to never give up.

Well, if I could go back in time and talk to my self, I would first tell my self to study harder. This world is not going to wait for you to get your self together. Also, I would tell my self don't let females get in the way of your dreams. Then, I would let my self know that the friends you are trying to fit in with are not going to be in your life for forever. Then, I would tell my self just because everybody else and your family didn't go to school doesn't mean that you can't be the first one. Another thing I would tell my self is not to let your environment control you, but let it shape you into a better man. FInally, I would tell my self to not rush to be a adult, but to have fun being a teen.

It isn't as terrifying as you think it is, just take things slowly. You tend to often over-analyze and stress yourself over the grand scale of things instead of taking the time to set your goals and take things one at a time. You have the want and the will power to succeed at anything you set your time and mind to. Just because you are heading into an unfamiliar territory doesn't mean that it will turn out badly. Do not get stuck in the same rut that some of your others friends may find themselves desperately trying to escape from, and believe me, you will see a lot of it. Let the little things in life help you maintain a positive outlook as you push for your goals, and never let the negative of any situation block your view for what is to come. This is the time when you take responsibility for your own life and decided whether or not you wish to make something out of yourself. You already know that you want to succeed, so you should not allow present events and hardships out weigh future blessings. Remember that this too shall pass.

I would give myself the same advice i had believed in: hardwork and steadiness wins the race.

My advice would be to search for the right college that fits them and enjoy their college experience. Stay focused and work hard, but make sure they are doing that towards something they really want in life. Ask someone if they don't understand, and help someone if they do understand. It'll definitely make the college life a lot easier.

My advice for parents and students who want to find the right college is to do your homework! (Pun intended.) Be sure to look into every aspect of each school you are considering. Make sure that the school offers exactly, or close to, what you expect out of your college experience. Also, be sure you choose a school that is forward thinking, cares about its students, and is well rounded. Most importantly of all, visit any campus you are considering. While there, be sure to speak to other students and faculty, and get a feel for the school. Do not just listen to what the school's website or pamplet says; see what the actual students' opinions are. Do they match what the school says about itself? Finally, go with your gut. If you feel that a school is the right fit for you, then it probably is. If you don't feel that way, then it isn't where you should invest your money.

for the parents, find out what the college is known for. A good way to do this is to go on myspace or facebook., this will give you LOTS

DO IT. AUM is a great place to learn, work, and interact with other students. The proffessors are genuinely concerned with progress and want to help you succeed.

Pick a school that is academically challenging and in an area that you would like to live.

Choose a school that feels right. Don't just go to a college because the high school social group is going. In college, I have made friendships that will last me a lifetime. Don't get bogged down with course work, let loose and have fun, but be sure to stay on top of the classes. Most of all, try to make the most of it all, because sooner or later, it will all end one day.

Please find out everything you can about financial aid.

Determine the size of the college you want to deal with (in terms of class size) -- large or small? Then preview the campuses of that size, if not just for a few hours to see what life is like there.

If I could give one piece of advice, it would have to be to not rush. If you are not sure what you want to do, do not make the mistake of thinking you are "stuck." I have changed my major 3 times and am back at what I oringinally started off with. I should be graduating pretty soon, even though I thought changing my major would set me back. Also, learn as much as you can about how a college operates. For instance, if you run into a problem, know who to go to. This is something i find ver frustrating when I need help. I feel as though sometimes I am running around getting nothing accomplished. These are the two things I strongly emphasis. Just meet as many people as you can and be open-minded. This has been the best experience in my life so far. Take full advantage of the opportunities you have.

The most important thing I learned after attending two different colleges is not to attend a school just because it is what everyone else wants you to do. Do what you want to and go to the place that truly fits who you are. Big does not always mean better and just because they have a good football team or social scene does not make it the right place for you.

My advice to anyone attending college is to ALWAYS DO YOUR BEST. I am an example because my first year I didn't take it seriously and now i'm struggling. I partied too hard and studied too little. I'm not saying not to enjoy your experience but know when enough is enough. Also make sure you choose the right college for the right reason. Don't attend a particular college because of the parties, the frat boys or sorority sisters. Attend school because of the programs they have to help you with your major and check the graduation rate. If you know you aren't really to attend a major university,try a community college. There isn't anything wrong with a community college; I might have to attend one myself.

Try not to be intimidated by the next level of your academic career. These students were once where you are now. You will find out that if you talk to just a few people around campus, most will be friendly and honest and tell you what you want to know about that school. Keep in mind that there are thousands of colleges out there and there is one that is right for you! With that said, try not to let a college's reputation preceed itself. Go there and seize the opportunity to become "one of them" for a day. A college is only as good as the students and faculty. Most of all, keep an open mind and remember, there are ALWAYS ways to find money for school, you just have to look for it!

If they do not like the college they are attending, transfer. Should they decide not to study, grades will suffer. It is up to the student to determine beforehand to study and do well. The best advice is that everyone should know your teacher. It really does help.