Ball State University Top Questions

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

Simone

I would tell myself to be ready to make a complete life change. When I first came to Ball State I was shy and quiet, and only knew a few people from my high school. Now I am outgoing and always ready for something new. I barely studied in high school, but now I study all the time. I didn't expect to change so much when I came to Ball State, but I did. I wouldn't give this advice to just myself, I would give this advice to all seniors.

Brittany

I know I was not completely prepared for being out on my own and succeeding in college on my own. I would give myself the advice of concentrate on my work and to not let anything disctract me from my goal. I have learned so much from my first year of college and I know that if I would stick to the study habits I had in high school with a little improvement, then I will be able to do well. I know if I just set my mind only on my goal and work my hardest to get there then I will succeed.

Rachel

As a junior in college, if I could speak to myself as a senior ready to begin my adult life, there are numerous things I would like to say. The most important of these would be, to take more risks artistically. As a theatre major and dance minor, I wish that at the beginning of my college career I would have had the courage to have spoken my mind in a classroom setting or changed a piece of choreography to my liking. Instead, I oftentimes sat or watched quietly and internalized my thoughts and feelings. I feel now that I would have benefitted immensely from having taken more chances. If I had started this earlier, my professors may have challenged and taught me to make better decisions to improve my art forms. College provides a time to learn about one?s self and in a classroom setting it is safe to take risks. If the effect of speaking up or offering an opinion isn?t the strongest, one will still be recognized for having engaged in dialogue. I now exercise decision making within my art form and am enjoying every minute of it. I only wish I had started sooner!

Natalie

I would advise that it is important to stay focused on your studies at the beginning of the semester, so you don't have to work on bringing your grade up when finals begin. Also, I wish I would've saved up more money when I was in high school, because text books are more expensive than I thought. At the beginning of school, it is important to make a lot of friends so later on in the semester when people start drifting apart, you don't feel lonely like everyone else has their set group of friends and you don't. If there is an opportunity to do community service, get a job, or join a group, take advantage of them because they are important to consider for future references. Finally, you don't always have to say 'yes' to your friends. When you have homework to do it is way more important than going out with your friends.

rebecca

If i could go back in time and tell myself what I know now would be the fact that college is harder than high school. You have to study and make sure you do ALL the homework, even the reading, to do good in college. Live on campus your first year because you will make friends and it gives you a chance to know the campus a lot more! Also if you live on campus then you do not have to worry about driving in bad weather and if you have group projects, it will be easier on you to be apart of. If you happen to get behind on your grades, there is always a place for you to get help!!

Emma

Emma you should pay more attention in class and take your studies more seriously. You should take more writing courses and spend time increasing your vocabulary. Enjoy your high school friends but realize you will be moving on to new and diverse experiences. Follow your dream but realize that you may need a plan "B" and plan "B" can bring you just as much happiness as your original dream. Be open to new people and new ideas. Do not have the same roomates every year, you need diversity. Don't break the bank spending money on material things, instead spend your time and money wisely on new experiences and making memories. If it is at all possible make studying abroad part of your college plan. Have fun and enjoy every minute because if you think high school went by fast...college literally flys!

Alexandria

Don't sweat the small stuff. What doesn't kill you makes you stronger. Learn to take it all in stride. It does not matter what the other girls think of you. The ability to turn the other cheek is a virtue, and like patience this too will take you some time to acquire. Defend what you believe in, pity the people who believe in nothing. Whether you think you can or you can't, You're right. Optimism, Dreams, Hope, Love, Self-Motivation...These are things you are lucky to have. Your greatest weakness is just a little too much of your greatest strength. You wouldn't believe it, but the one constant in your life has been your supposed "bad" attitude and in college this has actually been your greatest asset! You will Never stand by the wayside and let anyone else take control of your life or your future, so don't let anyone do it now. Apparently, a lot of people in your high school actually like you... so try talking to them so they will stop thinking you want to beat them up! Love, Me!

Tyler

Be prepared for obstacles of the financial, spiritual, and of your personal boundaries. Don't make rash decisions on religion just because you're desperate to have something to believe in and help you relate to your family. Take your time with said decisions. Work on your time management skills. Finally, while you're at college, actually DO SOMETHING PRODUCTIVE instead of sitting around watching everyone else like you have been for the past seventeen years of your life.

Erica

Going to college shouldn't feel like a scarry thing to do. It is kinda overwhelming at first, but you just have to remember that your not the only one going through that big transition and those who are going through it too may just turn out to be your best friends. And those who have already been in college for a while are great people to go to for any questions at all, you just have to be brave and be willing to step outside of your comfort zone and explore the new world around you. Dont let anything pass you by. College is great!

William

Hindsight is better than foresight, and this maxim is applicable regarding the nature of immature choices of a high school senior. In consideration of the economic and political trends of the current time, I would consider a double major in two very divergent fields. The first choice would have been in the Humanities. The second major would have been in the sciences. I would have selected a classics major in conjunction with a biology major, thus affording me professional options beyond the scope of education and academic research in the Humanities. The science aspect would have opened up numerous fields in medicine, medical technology, and other allied science fields. It would have opened the door to a variety of graduate school options that, as an undergraduate student, I was unable to anticipate with any degree of predictability. I am persuaded that diversity in one's college education is as imperative an academic function as it is in terms of social interaction or in financial investments. The remaining elective hours would have left me even more alternatives, such as enhancing either major with professional courses in education, library science or business. In essence, I would maximize the potential of my degree.

Marissa

I feell the best advise would be to go into social work, at the time when I was in high school I didn't know what I wanted to go into major wise. Even though I don't believe in changing anything about your past I would love to know what was the carreer path I was headed. I would also tell myself to be open minded to every opportunity and to keep working as hard as I did in high school becuase it really would pay off in the end, just like my mother always said. I would also say that I made the right desision in choosing colleges and that I shouldn't worry.

Kayla

I would jump at the oppurtunity to go back and give myself some words of wisdom in high school. "Stay focused and always push to be better" would be the major advice I would give myself. It is so easy to get caught up in the excitement of the people, the places, the parties and forget what you are here for; to educate yourself and grow as an individual. It is important to find your balance between school and socializing. It is beneficial to do above and beyond what is required of you in school but also find that time to socialize and make some amazing friends. Don't be afraid to meet new people and try things outside your comfort zone, in the end those are the things that turn out to be the most worthwhile. So don't stress about the small stuff in the end everything is going to turn out the way it should.

Jonathan

I would tell myself to bring home my backpack--with books in it--on a daily basis. When I was in high school, I was able to complete my work in school and did not spend much time studing but was still able to maintain decent grades. I graduated in the top third of my class. I got into my choice of college but with no scholarship money. My grades were average but not spectacular. If I knew then what I know now, I would tell myself to study more and get all A's so that my parents and I would not have to work so hard to fund my college tuition. I did not think that straight A's would matter that much when it came to money for college. I thought that A's were god and that B's were fine too. Little did I know that this lack of effort in high school came back to bite me, and now I'm working every summer and during school breaks to make money to help fund my education. If only..... I had brought my books home DAILY-- instead of an empty backback-- in high school...

Devon

The advice I would give myself is to be diverse and to not be scared of what college has to bring. College can be very overwhelming and the transition can be scary but get to know people and interact with the community as fast as possible. I would tell myself to never judge a book by its cover because every person on the campus has a story and you never know who can become your best friend at school. For instance, being from New Jersey and attending a school in Indiana; to me it seems as though everyone is from the same high schools and it seems as though everyone is from Indiana but by putting myself out there I have met so many people and people have welcomed me to the new state and introduced me to their friends. The most important thing is just to remember everyone comes from something so never judge and be open.

LUCAS

My advice to myself would be to listen a little more to my teachers; study a little harder for tests, and take school a little more seriously. I would advise myself to get involved more in my school and its activities.

Kaitlin

If I were able to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would have told myself to be more organized and prepared in coming to college. I would have applied for more scholarships and financial aid opportunities that would be able to help me now. I procrastinated and missed scholarships because of deadlines, not because I was not worthy of them. I completed dual credit courses and AP courses that gave me many credit hours in college, and it was the smartest thing I did. I would tell anyone to take courses that could potentially give you college credit. Getting to know your teachers is also helpful. They can write you letters of recommendation that will help in your search for a college and financial aid. Applying to colleges early can also help get extra scholarships, so I would have looked into different colleges sooner and weighed my options. I am happy with my college choice, and the transition. Living on campus, a scary thought in my senior year, is not what I thought it was. Being more prepared, I now know college is an amazing experience.

Lauren

Lauren, life's what you make it-nobody else. You have the world at your feet so choose what's best for you because in the long run, it's not the size of the school that matters, or that horrible bio teacher you had. All that matters is that you're happy doing what you're doing and you're going to be successful if you work hard and stay focused. You have so much potential, don't sell yourself short and make choices just to make other people happy-who knows if they'll even be in your life 10 years down the road. Nursing school is going to be tough and competitive, but keep your head on straight, have fun, and you'll do great.

John

I would tell myself to start off on a good note in college. I would tell myself to relax but to still be prompt with schoolwork and other activities. I would say that the responsibility is much greater but will help me mature as a person. The main piece of advice I would give is to be focused and to not give in to negative distractions. There is time for a social life so there is no need to give in to peer pressure just to have fun. I wasn't very good at time management in High school so I would tell myself to be ready to manage my time carefully with schoolwork,social activities, and other activities. The most important piece of advice I could tell myself is to completely get my schoolwork done before I do anything else. This has now help me mature and become more responsible for my life and I believe I have changed alot for the better since i've been in high school.

Terry

When I was in high school, I never really thought about what exactly I wanted to study in college, how much it would cost, or how long it would take. My advice to myself would have been to give more thought about what I would like to do with my life and look into universities that could cater to my needs. Going into college, I wasn't really sure what I wanted to be when it was all said and done. I transferred schools and changed my major five times before I found medical technology, which I have finally decided to settle on. I feel that if I looked into all of the possible careers while I was still in high school, I would have known exactly what I wanted to do once I got here. This would have saved me a lot of time and money, two very important things to me now.

Chris

I would tell myself to take my senior year seriously, no blow-off classes. It would definitely make the transition to college much easier. It would help me prepare for the classes on the collegiate level. I would also take as many language classes, especially Latin and Greek classes that I could. I would also tell myself to apply for as many scholarships a possible and as early as possible. I would also tell myself to do more work in the community and definitely volunteer MORE! It would also help to watch out for senioritis!

Allison

The first thing that comes to mind would be to stay at college for as long as possible without going home. Make sure you are comfortable staying at the campus of your choice for longer than one week at a time. Doing so will save your family gas money and will somewhat force you to get out and make friends. Another very important piece of advice would be to get to know as many people as you possibly can. While this might not seem like a big deal, it will later when your roommate leaves on weekends and you have no one to hangout with. Maybe the friends you meet are in your classes and that will allow you to have a study group which will come in handy when the work load gets hard. One last thing is to stay focused and try not to procrastinate. It is something very many people do but if you stay on top of your class work your life will be much less stressful and this will allow you to have free time to join groups or a sorority. Remember those tips and your freshman year will be a blast!

Jenna

Hello Jenna! As you embark on this new living and learning adventure, here are some words of wisdom that may make the transition a bit easier. To be really ready for dorm life: Bring bug spray! Invest in plenty of power cords! Have an extra set of bedsheets and be prepared for not always getting easy access to the washer/dryer! Be committed to healthy snacks! Realize that dorm living can be noisy and you may have to get sleep at odd hours. To prepare for academic challenges: Get to know your professors and don't hesitate to ask for help as soon as you realize you need it. Have confidence in your ability to be successful. You will be amazed at all of the fascinating learning experiences about to come your way. Hold on to every ounce of enthusiasm and build on that inner desire to succeed. Finally, consider seeking a part time job on campus...it will help financially and also help you to meet new people; you will have more "down time" than you might expect. Enjoy this special time of your life - it will go by very quickly.

Brooke

Procrastination is something that you, on occasion, may get a way with in highschool, but in college it's out of the question. You can't rush to get things done, you need to do your best on your assignments, and projects because most of the classes are based solely on tests. In high school, if you did poorly on tests, you most likely had the chance to make up points through assignments, and extra credit. There aren't a lot of assignments to help make up your points in most classes, so it's important to buckle down, and study hard. Also, it's important that your academics always come before your social life.

Michelle

I would tell myself to be prepared for everything - studying much harder, not give into the peer pressure and keep your head up through any situation. As a freshman in college, I've already had to change roommates twice because the first one decided to go to a different school without warning me and the second one moved in with her sorority sister. I've also had some very tough classes and tough decisions to make. Though I've been pressured and have had to deal with sticky situations, I still keep my head up through everything. Basically, I would tell myself to just keep herself focused and be prepared for the worst of situations.

Michelle

The first thing I would tell myself would be to take high school seriously. Get as much education and knowledge in high school as you can because when you go to college if you dont remember what you learned in highschool you will fall behind really quick. Also I would tell myself to take better notes and prepare now for what is to come in college because if you dont prepare yourself ahead of time you will be so stressed out and lost. Also I would make as many friends as possible and continue to keep in touch with them through college becasue there is going to be those days when you need to talk to someone back home about something that has happened with your roommate or some other situation on campus. Just prepare for college and get good grades!

Falicia

If I could go back and talk to myself, the first thing I would say would be, "Chill out!" I was an uptight senior. I would tell myself to start having more fun and spending more time with my friends and my family because I will surely miss them. I would also say to not concentrate so hard on school work, that I am smart and I don't need to stress out so much; I've made it this far and I'm almost done so enjoy it! Another big thing I would emphasize to myself is not to worry about the drama and the tears I experienced at the end of the year and through the summer. All of it made me stronger and everything does work out. And I would also tell myself to work more hours and to spend less money; otherwise I will be a poor college student like I am now. Last but not least I would tell myself good job! That I am about to graduate and be on my own and that I have made it. I have become a stong, smart, pretty individual that needs to have more confidence in herself!

Carly

If I were able to talk to myself as a senior, I would explain that I should not overanalyze the transition into my freshman year of college. I was so worried at the time that the transition would be difficult, that I began to prepare to soon. I would explain that by detaching myself from my hometown, the people I knew, and even my parents, that I was losing precious time and experiences I would never get back. I watched my brother leave to college three years before, and he had struggled. Although my brother?s situation was very different from mine, and I should not have based my concerns off of one person?s experience. My personality is easygoing enough that I would have always been able to adjust well to the transition no matter how much or how little I had prepared. I would remind myself of who I am. The hardest transition was the one I made before I ever left for Ball State. I had mentally left long before.

Alicia

I would tell her to do what makes her happy and more. Don't let anyone tell you what you need or what you should do. Pray, don't be like everyone else, and focus on creating happiness for yourself. Cry when you have to, smile when you want to. The last thing I would tell her is that college can either make or break you. Make sure it makes you, builds you up, and transforms you into the young woman that you can be. Be happy, be strong, and be yourself. I would also tell her to not let financial reasons dictate whether or not continue with school. It'll pay off in the long run. Trust me.

Anita

As a high school senior, I remember how excited I was to attend Ball State University, and the feeling of relief I felt knowing that I found my match in a college, and that I would be spending the next four years of my life somewhere that I felt very comfortable being. Along with that anticipation of going to college, came the anxiety of the unknown. Currently as a college freshman, I am very settled in and have fallen into a routine here at Ball State that seems to work very well for me. If I could go back in time and talk to myself, I would tell myself this: Don't be afraid to take risks and step outside of my comfort zone. It's easy to become a number, and if you dont make yourself noticable to others, it can become lonely. Although it may be intimidating, don't be afraid to get involved and make new friends. Make the years you spend here count, but don't forget that you are a student first and to maintain academics. Fall into a routine, where you can easily balance academics and a social life.

Kathryn

College is great! You are your own boss. You decide what you want to do and when you want to do it. But don't let all this new freedom go to your head. You still need to work hard in class and actually go to class in order to pass and be able to graduate. My freshman year, I kind of let the new freedom get to me and I skipped class about once a week. My grades slipped because of it and I have learned my lesson the hard way and I am still trying to get my GPA up to a reasonable number. You will also meet a ton of new people. Your friends now may or may not still be your friends next year, but I can promise you that you will meet new life-long friends in your freshman year. Although I am still friends with a few people from high school, I made new friends who are always there for me. Don't party too much. It's fun and acceptable on the weekends, but don't go out during the week if you won't get up for class!

Taylor

I would advise myself to get more involved with high school clubs. They provide a great outlet to grow new relationships and new opportunities for college. I would also tell myself to really study about three different colleges that have the major I am interested in. You need to visit each college, talk to other students and advisors so you have all the information necessary to make a choice that is right for you-not yur friends and not your family -but for you. High school visit days from colleges are a great way to start that process.

Olivia

You cannot possibly imagine all of the amazing new experiences college will present to you throughout the next four years. The people you meet will challenge your preconceived notions and expose you to brand new lifestlyes, beliefs, and ideas. Your professors and courses will challenge you in a variety of ways, but do not worry about that just yet. High school has prepared you to take all of this on as long as you remember to face everyday head on with an open mind and kind heart. At times you will feel overwhelmed, and occassionally even miss the comforts of home. However, these times will be rare, and greatly overshadowed by the all-night discussions, spontaneous adventures, and awe-inspiring classes with people and resources more engaging than you have ever hoped to encounter!

Emily

After being in college for a sememster, I have realized that the thing I miss the most about being home is home itself. If I had to give my high school self any advice, I would tell myself to take advantage of every moment I have before I leave for college. I love college now, but the things I miss the most are my friends, parents, and home. I rarely see my high school friends or parents now. If I had a second chance, I would take advantage of every last moment I spent with all of them. Also, being in a place where I am the most comfortable is something I love. So if I could give myself any advice, I would tell myself to spend more time with my family and friends and appreciate every moment I had at home.

Meghan

If I could go back into time and visit myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to relax about the whole admission process. Also, the friends that I go up with, are most likely not going to be my best friends, but that I'll make better ones. Besides the social aspect, I would tell myself that if I get stressed, just take deep breathes and relax. Also, learn how to study efficiently, get organized, and relax. Things get stressful, but college is not impossible, it can be done. That is what I would tell myself if I could go back in time.

Kara

I wish I knew then what I know now. I would tell myself to take my studies seriously and apply myself because what I learn in highschool really does impact post-secondary education. I would also tell myself to explore all college options regarding geographic location and that all freshman are in the same boat, meaing that they're all just as scared on their first day of college. Not only that but to get involved with the campus activities because it is a great way to meet new people who share the same interests and values.

Emily

The best advice I could give a high school senior is to apply for the FAFSA and as many scholarships and grants as possible. High school seniors are pressured to decide where they want to go and what they want to do right away, but so many college students change their major or transfer to different colleges that those decisions should not be the top priority. If students receive grants, scholarships, or loans, they can attend any college of their choice. The first step is to ensure that they can pay for college; then they will be able to support their dreams and ambitions as they come and go.

Alaina

As a high school student I always thought that I would be extremely prepared for college life. Looking back I realize that I was wrong. There are many things that I wish I would have been told, but some things would have been more helpful than others. One thing that I would have told myself is that no matter how hard I tried, there is absolutely no way to avoid homesickness. There are just some things that are unavoidable, and that is not one of them. Another thing I wish I would have known before coming to college is that you get out of a class what you are willing to put into that class. Working hard and maintaining good study habits is the key to success. After listening to all of my older friends and hearing them complain about all of the reading and writing they had, and then completely disregarding all of their advice, I would definitely tell myself to listen to them. Finally, the most important thing that I would tell myself is that time management can make or break you. Good time management skills can help to cut back on stress and make college more enjoyable.

Kayla

If I could go back in time and give myself one piece of advice about college it would definitely be about study habits. Studying for high school material and studying for college material is vastly different. Many times in high school I could attend class, take notes and then pass a test without studying. This however would not happen in college. I have learned new and effective studying habits. One way that helps me is making note cards and flash cards. I would also suggest reading the book as a study tip. Many times in high school teachers didn't require textbook reading. In college if the professor says read chapters one and two, they usually end up quizing you over those chapters. And the one last piece of advice I would add is enjoy the rest of your senior year and don't be so anxious to get to college!

KyLeigh

While I have immensely enjoyed my experience at Ball State University, if I could impart one piece of wisdom upon ?high school senior KyLeigh?, I would greatly stress the difficulty of being an off campus-commuting freshman to a larger university. The majority of college freshman are residing in the university dormitories, and in doing so, have the ability to socialize with an entirely new group of people, outside of the normal classroom setting. Conversely, as a college freshman, I decided to put my social life on the back burner, in order to focus solely on my academic career. As a college junior, looking back on my university experience, I am extremely proud of my academic achievements, yet I fell somewhat unfulfilled with my social standing with the university. Therefore, if I could discuss my college experience with the high school senior form of myself, I would greatly stress the importance of actively joining in extracurricular activities and organizations, and not hide behind the security of living at home. I have found myself playing extracurricular ?catch-up? in my junior year, which is infinitely harder than becoming involved in social and academic organization as a college freshman.

Kailie

If I could go back and give myself any advice as high school senior there is a lot I would tell myself. The first thing I would tell myself is to enjoy the rest of my senior year. I would then tell myself that no matter what I do in college don't ever give up or think that I can't do something. I would tell myself that I am capable of anything and I have a goal that I will achieve. So, the most important thing that I would tell myself is that no matter how hard things get or how impossible the work seems to strive forward in everyway possible. The last thing that I would tell myself is to remember that I have several people waiting at home who love me and are cheering me on to reach the success that they know I am capable of. I would tell myself to take that encouragement and to use it to meet the highest level of success that I can possiby gain.

Brittany

I would tell myself to become more assertive. I had been timid for so long that once I got to college and had to be assertive, I struggled with it. While I have no problem speaking up now, my freshman year was difficult. I would also tell myself to get involved in activites and groups. My sophomore found that there were so many great student groups on campus that I did not know existed my freshman year, mostly because I did not know where to look.

Megan

I would tell myself to spend less time with new friends and more time with new books. I have spent a lot of time with people that I have met and have failed to pay attention to my studies. I wish I had spent more time studying. I would tell myself that you should always be reading or studying for your classes. You can't procrastinate in college. I would tell myself to break that habit immediately. I would tell myself to go see the professors if I need help. You may feel stupid, but the truth is, you are making the effort to get help, which demonstrates that you aren't. I would also make sure to tell myself to utilize the study lounges and the library. Yes, you may have to walk across campus in the cold rain, but it will all be worth your time in the long run.

Sharisse

If I could go back in time and advise myself on how to handle college life, I would not start off by talking about grades and how to study. Throughout high school I always knew how to study and earn good grades, but I always had a problem with change and getting used to new situations. Therefore, if I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would say "Sharisse, you need to learn to be more open-minded and accepting to new ideas, people, and situations. You'll be living with people who do not have the same values and ideas as you, and that's O.K. There's nothing wrong with change and it'll be good for you, so don't dwell on the fact that you're 4 hours away from your old life and just focus on beginning your new life. Also, when you first get to college, go out more! Don't eat lunch and dinner in your dorm, stay in the food court and meet new people because it'll help you adjust quicker. Just remember not to lose yourself in order to fit in."

Briana

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, the advice I'd give myself would be to investigate the finances that you'll need to attend the school . When you first arrive at the school, one of the first thoughts on your mind is, "Will I get lost on the first day"? But what should also be on your mind is if you and whoever else may be helping you will be able to come up with the payments needed to stay in class and on campus. Before coming to campus, go online and look up the cost of tuition along with your financial award package and the cost of your class books for that semester. Doing this will alleviate a lot of stress and it will be one less thing that you will have to worry about when it comes time for exams. If you're ever unsure about how much you owe or the payments that need to be made, ask the Bursar at your school. Remember, looking up the information before you reach campus is important so you won't fall behind in payments, and you can continue school.

Breona

I would say "Self, high school was a little difficult and though part of that difficulty was dealing with mom always breathing down your neck, you are going to miss that. Being up at college is a completely different experience and no one is there to watch over you and make sure that you are getting everything done or reminding you that you have an appointment at this time. So when you get to college make sure that you make your self aware of all that you have to do that day and GET IT DONE! Once you arrive at Ball State don't focus on "getting settled", focus on making friends. No one wants to simply go to their classes and come directly back to their dorm rooms everyday, so get out there and meet new people. Don't worry too much about parties or people doing other said typical college activites because it doesn't matter what they are doing so long as you do not allow your self to get caught up in them, besides you won't encounter that very much. Overall, have fun, keep your grades up and live your life.

Lawrence

I think I would tell myself to be more prepared. I didn't realize what was at stake as a high school senior because that was my final year and I was glad to be almost over. I think that really over shadowed my focusing to the point where now, college really is a lot harder and I know that know. I would be more likely to tell myself to get your head in the game and focus on the task at hand. This is a big chance in your life and you really need to take it. Getting to college is a big deal and your so close to moving on to even bigger and better things in your life. My senior self was little bit more about fun back then but being a sophomore in college now, I know that I can balance my fun and be focused all at the same time. I know college is here to help me better myself and I would just need to tell my past self that to understand what what greater ahead for me in life.

Kayla

if i could go back and talk to myself as a senior I would tell myself to focus more on my goals and less on my social life. I would have tried harder to get better grades and keep my GPA up. I would also tell myself to learn better study habbits. If you dont have good study habbits in college you wont make it very far. Also being more involved with groups or clubs to show my leadership ability, and helping the community by doing community service to show my character.

Erica

As a high school senior I constantly stressed about getting into school, living on my own, and being able to make good grades in college. After completing a semester at Ball State University, I would give my high-school self some great advice: Relax. You will get into school without any problems, living on your own is a fun experience that sparks tremendous growth, and college classes are no more difficult than high school classes because you have prepared yourself by taking honors and AP courses. Challenging yourself by choosing the Honors College will prove to be a fantastic decision. You not only will have some interesting and intriguing classes, but you will make incredible friends. Ball State is definitely the right choice because not only do you get the big-school, highly popualted campus, but through the Honors College and honors housing, you will get a close-knit community and will be more than just a number while getting the chance to shine and stand out amongst your peers.

Genevieve

I made the choice to take a year off between high school and college to heal from an eating disorder and to discover myself. I was initially afraid of what other people would think about it since it isn't common. Now I'm so glad that I did it and I would tell my high school self to stop worrying what other's think. It's my life and it shouldn't be run by people I won't care about in a year. During this year I've learned volumes about myself by doing things I've always wanted to do which has prepared me for college beyond any class or orientation. I'm one of the kids who is completely undecided about my life and major and through travel, work, internships, and activities I'm way closer to knowing what I want. Studies show that students who take time off are way more focused upon returning to school and in fact do much better than most who go straight from high school. Next year I'll be at GWU but I'll be the girl who can handle the curveballs and the rest of life.

Laura

I think I managed fairly well as far as transitioning from high school to college goes. I am a shy person, so I would have advised myself to be more sociable during high school. That would have probably helped me more in college as far as meeting new people goes. When it comes to school work, I would have advised myself to work a bit harder to get better grades in all of my classes in high school. I did well in them, but I could have worked much harder to get better grades. I would have told myself to study harder for the SAT. If I would have done better on that, I could have been exempt from more college courses.