Baylor University Top Questions

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

Clarissa

The biggest thing I wish I could tell myself then is always remember that if you have dreams think outside the box and you will make them come true. When applying for scholarships you have to go the extra mile, with your school work you have to go the extra mile, and in all you do at your university go the extra mile! There are so many resources to help you better your future and reach your goals, go get it, it is for you. Never stop striving for excellence or doing what it takes to do the best job possible. Your future holds so many great things but it is your job to see those things manifest. The future is yours, good luck and God bless.

B

Wow, if I could go back in time and talk to my high school self, there would be a lot of things I would say. One that is very important that I try to tell many high school kids now is to apply for as many scholarships as possible. In addition to that apply to the schools that will definitely give money based on your GPA. I stress that because college loans are not a joke and shouldn't be taken lightly. I would really reiterate to myself that if you can get all of school paid for, go for it with all you have. That's just one piece of advice I would have but another piece of information that is so important that I would tell myself would be to not underestimate college and STUDY, STUDY, STUDY. I would tell myself that college will crush you if you don't develop effective habits of studying, it's absolutely crucial to do well. Oh yeah and one more thing, just have fun!

Kevin

Take more AP credit, dual credit, and summer school community college credit. The more of your degree you already have taken care of, the less stress you will have fufilling the requirements in college. Don't buy such an expensive meal plan. You won't end up eating all of the meals and its a big waste of your/your parents money. Get tuition equalization. Tuition will go up by over $1000 each year. Please buy the set rate of tuition so you wont have to pay over $30000 for it your junior and senior year. Apply for more scholarships. If you're taking even $1 in loans you dont have enough scholarship. Apply, apply apply. Stop wasting your summers and get a job you lazy bum. You'll want that money saved up for the years ahead. Going pot-luck for your roomate for the experience is overrated. If you know someone going to the same place you are, ask him about rooming. Otherwise, you're going to end up with someone who never leaves his bed and drinks all your milk.

Emily

Get excited! Those two words are my advice to you as you wrap up your high school experience. God will work in your life in ways you never imagined. Applying for scholarships, trying to decide where you want to go to college, and, most importantly, what you want to do with your life afterwards can be a little overwhelming, especially while feeling the pressure from Momma and Dad to get it all done right away, but really relax. Honestly, take a deep breath and put it in God’s hands. If you try to do it on your own, He’s going to take control of it anyway in the end. Though I cannot give away the end result, for fear that you would miss out on the learning opportunity, I can tell you that if you try to make all of these plans on your own, then you may miss out on what God has planned for you. So, take this as a wake up call. Your “plans” may sound great now, but His are so much better. So, relax and get excited, because if you let Him, the Lord will lead you, and you will not be disappointed.

Chelsea

I have a whole list of things I would tell my high school self if I could go back in time. First on the list would be to develop better sleeping habits while you can, because in college you're guaranteed way less sleep. I would tell myself to stop procrastinating so much, because even though I always got everything done on time, nothing feels as good as knowing you've crossed something off your to-do list. I would tell high school me not to worry so much about friends; you find out who your real friends are once you no longer live in the same city. Finally, I'd say, "Keep on keepin' on, high school me. Everything will be just fine."

Jasmine

Dear high school me, You made it. You promised yourself a long time ago that you would make it to Baylor to study music and you did. I'm proud of you, but there are some things that you need to do. Get out of your dorm room. You go through a smalll bout of depression, but you get through it with your voice teacher, family and friends. Don't apologize for not being able to adjust because it is a difficult transition to make. You are going to do amazing things. I'm glad you tried eveyrthing in high school because that drive and eagerness comes in handy. You juggle a lot of things with being a music major, in BUMEA, member of Mu Phi Epsilon and being in several choirs, but be sure to take time for yourself. Take advantage of the Baylor life. Be a Welcome Week leader, go to mixers, attend classes that don't have your friends in them and most importantly, cherish, love and remember the friendships you make. Those friends keep you going. Call mom and grandma because they worry and remember God has a plan. Love, College Me

Charles

Charles, enjoy yourself and relax. Though there will always been deadlines that need to be met, papers that need to be written, and meetings that need to be attended, do not get lost in all of the hype of college life to where you miss out on the beautiful and luxurious commodities life continually reveals to you. Everything in college is meant to be enjoyed, in one way or another, and should enhance your joy. Attending college is not your ultimatum to succeeding in life or not, or even furthering yourself in life. If you happen to bomb a test, keep going; there is room to recover and bounce back. You miss a deadline, don't flip out; relax and see if anything can be done about the situation. You get a C+ or lower in a class, life is not over. College is not everything and it does not define you or the course of your life. Enjoy the experience, get all you can from it, and just live because others will inevitably be affected by the peace, joy, and rest you exude. from not stressing. Have fun because you got it!

Connie

Just because you are not going to an ivy league doesn't mean that school will be easy. Managing time is the hardest, and you may not understand until you are placed in a situation where friends ask you to come over, eat out, or even chat in the library! Waking up for an 8:00 AM class is harder than you think. In high school we attend school at 8:00 AM, so you think it wouldn't be a problem, but try studying until 5 in the morning and attending an 8:00 AM class. Choosing the right professor is very important. In high school, you can get by with any teacher because the course curriculum is the same for all subjects, but in college the professor teaches what he/she wants to teach, and how he/she wants to teach it. You think classes are going to be like taking AP courses, but they are not! They are harder, but on the bright side, at least be thankful you took those courses to prepare you for studying. College is no joke no matter which college you attend.

Maegan

I would advise myself not to go in attached to my best friends hip. I would need to assure myself that I am confident and capable enough to go into this new environment and experience with an open mind. I believe this would help me to embrace all of the differences and new friendships that I came upon. I would tell myself that though teachers will not remind you about deadlines as much, they are just as important as in highschool. Having no one to remind you or someone to monitor your work is difficult when transitioning because you never really appreciate the support you have until it's gone. You realize quickly that in college you are responsible for your work, your health, your social life, and your time. I would instill in myself that prioritizing will change my life and that my grades will reflect what I feel is important. Though some things may seem crucial now, what truly matters is putting your future first and being able to balance both school work and a social life.

Kaelyn

I would tell myself to be prepared to work hard and that the hard work will pay off in the long run. I would also advise myself to learn how to balance school and social life and to use my time wisely. A big tip I would give to myself is to get involved and participate with school activities. Not only will this help you to make friends but it will also look great on a resume for further endeavors. Overall I would advise myself to stay focused and determined and to never give up on attempting to achieve my goals.

Shruti

While being a high school senior, it never occurred to me that building a strong educational foundation would help lead to my success in college. During senior year I took many electives as opposed to the necessary classes for my major. I only took one Advanced Placement class and one science class necessary for my original major. Starting high school, I wanted to be a Crime Scene Investigator therefore the classes that I took were forensic science classes. While filling out college applications I realized that I wanted to pursue a degree in Bioengineering. After starting community college I realized that I should have taken many more Advanced Placement math and science classes that would have benefitted me in getting my associates degree. If I had planned my high school schedule out better, I would not have had to take many summer classes to finish my associates’ degree in two years. Also I would have a smoother transition from a two-year institution to a four-year institution. If I were given a second chance at high school, I would take more math and science classes and would strive to understand the concepts in those classes important for future studies.

Rachel

Rachel, you need to follow your dreams and stop worrying about what your mom tells you to do. Take different courses at UTD and figure out what it is you are passionate about. And start caring! Yes, you are young and have your whole life ahead of you, but this is your chance to make your future. This is your chance to become someone and change the world. Now, go out there and make a difference!

Kaitlin

As a senior in high school, studying is not a major requirement. However, college is all about studying and how to study. If I could go back, I would teach myself how to study and learn how I study best. Once you get to college, you spend most of your time studying for tests and can start as early as a week or two before the test. I would practice making flash cards and setting aside a certain amount of time preparing for things. I had no idea how hard it is to study and how much time you have to devote to it! I would have gotten myself in the habit of styding so that it wouldn't be as hard once I got here. I would also say to take Dual Credit courses instead of Advanced Placement, because you're guaranteed credit with Dual Credit, but not with AP classes. That way I could have had a little college practice and some credits going into it.

Amber

If could talk to my "senior self" and assuming that my former self would actually listen, I would say that there is no reason at all to be nervous about attending college. Everyone there is afraid of the unknown just like you and there is no reason to get all worked up and nervous before experiencing it. College is a lot like high school; easy if you listen, study and ask for help if needed. I would tell myself that being in high school as an adult is different than high school too, where you have more riding on this education process. You actually have to pay for the education so it is definitely wise to try hard to excel. I do know that if I told my former self that she would be able to pass all of her math courses with A+'s, that she would not believe me and then not listen to another word being said. Thus, I would save that bit of advice for the very end of the conversation.

Mimi

My advice for myself would be to embrace every mistake that comes my way. Too often did I regard mistakes as setbacks in my path to success and therefore, I lived to avoid them. But in the process of living a calculated and careful existence, I forgot that mistakes serve to condition us for whatever future curve balls life throws at us. Mistakes make college life what it is: enlightening. To evade them is to deprive myself from experience and by extension, from learning. If I welcome and conquer each mistake, I inadvertently dissipate every sliver of self-doubt, insecurity and uncertainty that bubbles beneath the surface. And it is only through my mistakes will I begin to understand and appreciate that struggles are an integral part of navigating through life's unpredicatable waters. So make mistakes and when you do not think of them as obstacles but rather, opportunities.

Maegan

It's ok to try and stand out; don't be afraid to find and be yourself, even if you discover you have different opinions/views than those around you. Question everything around you so that you know absolutely that you believe what you believe; question your views, your religion, your authority figure(s), the government, and the world around you so you can be a leader and not a follower. Never let anyone convince you that you are less than what you truly are: a beautiful, headstrong, independent young woman. No matter how hard life is, press on; it'll be worth it in the long run. Always remember that you are never alone despite the bleak loneliness you feel from time to time; there are people that are there for you and will help you if you speak up. Never stay silent when you see an injustice, even if appears harmless; your actions can make a great difference in someone else's life. Break out from the mold and have fun; meet new people, scream, dance, act silly, just LIVE because you have this amazing life and this life only, so make the most of it.

Eva

I would tell myself to remember to keep contact with my family and friends. Transitioning from high school and living with my parents to living with a roommate and classes at a college can be a hectic and trying time. The easiest way to keep grounded and relieve the stress can build up from the transition is to spend time with my family and friends, to get my mind off th stresses of college life. I would also tell my high school senior self to spend more time with my familyas my mother passed away during my freshman year in college. I would tell myself to spend time organizing my time management so that I would have an appropriate amount of time for academic and an amount for social events. Time management and stress relief are the two major aspects that I would give myself advice about if I could go back in time and talk to my high school senior self.

Alisha

If I could go back in time to when I was a senior, I would tell myself to focus more on my studies and the direction I am shaping my life. When I was in high school it was hard for me to see past Friday night. My social life was my main priority. Going out, wearing the latest fashion, and having the "in" things was what I lived for. Looking back now, I would tell myself that you have so much more ahead of you. High school doesn't last, parties don't last, sports really aren't your life, and clothing doesn't make you popular. Once you graduate, the things that were important to you, literally mean nothing. They aren't going to build your life or make you successful. Excelling in your studies, making good decisions in life, those will build a foundation for your future. I'd tell myself to study more and worry less about what to wear tomorrow too impress the cute boy in English class. Education is what matters. An education will get you some where in life. This is what I would tell myself if I could go back in time.

Brandon

I would attend a junior college first to get acclimated with college life. I was not prepared to live so far way from home, take on some very hard courses, and I did not know how to study well. I would have taken basics instead of declaring a major. I changed my major four times. I would have studied harder. I am a people person and I love kids. I would have researched the medical field more closely. I think if I had gone to a junior college and attained a higher GPA, I could have gotten some scholarships when I attended a major university. I would have been able to help my parents by taking on more of the financial responsibility and I may have been able to reduce the amount of school loans I have incurred over the years. By the time I finally get my BSN, I will have so many loans to repay. I also would have taken dual credit courses instead of honor courses to obtain some college credit before I graduated from high school. Looking back, if I had done these things, I would have my BSN now and could be working.

Mehtaz

I would tell myself that finding scholarships is top priority after getting accepted to the university of my choice. Do not spend the money that you have because you may need it for something unexpected. Take better care of yourself and form a bit better study habits (although your grades are great). Do all your school work for yourself not for others. Try to be more outgoing in this last year, which will help you a lot in college. People may not say this, but a great GPA in highschool does not really help you get scholarships for college. It is very difficult to pay for college, and loans can be very intimidating. Quit procrastinating on doing the things that need to be done; just finish what you start as soon as possible. This may help you in the near future.

trey

Don't drink so damn much. The Army will be okay, but you will emerge darker, and troubled. Take the time now to account for who you ARE, in your youth. All of the damage will create the wonderous man you are destined to become...

Lauren

I now understand how important it is to have a good group of friends. I wish I had been more involved as a freshman and participated in social events on campus. Freshman year was very hard for me, mainly because I did not have very many friends. I felt like I did not fit in, but I now realize it was because of my unwillingness to participate in those very important social events. When you come into college as a freshman, the whole experience is scary, but exciting. You need friends to talk to about the issues you face at a new school. Everyone is going through the same thing, or have already gone through that experience, and they can help you succeed. Friends also help you academically, whether they push you to do your best, or are in your study group. I am involved in Welcome Week, a week of freshman bonding before the semester officially starts. I cannot encourage my students enough to get involved on campus and get to know other students in the group. Building strong relationships is one thing I firmly believe helps you succeed in college.

Taylor

When you move off to college keep in touch with your friends more. I know you have always struggled with this but make a concious effert to do so because you don't know where life will take you. Also, manage your time better! Don't stress yourself out so much and buy a planner! Rethink your first two semester schedules please! Do you really think you are going to want to go to school from 8 am to 6 pm? I didn't think so either. Practice time management more and join an actual study group, its ok to tell your distracting friends you cannot hangout! Spend more time with the friends who make you feel like a better person and not the ones who drag you down and wear you out. I know money is an issue for you and you will feel like the world is caving in but it won't, things will work out just be patient. Most college kids are poor too. Join more groups on campus and participate more! You love volunteering and helping others so get out there and do it! Lastly, just relax, take a deep breath, and smile.

Sidney

I would go back and tell myself to be ready for hard work and more studying then high school ever demanded. That thinking outside the box and looking for more then one point of veiw will pay off more than I imagined. It is possible to have all the fun possible while staying true to studying and that Moody library would become a second dorm during finals. But more than anything i would tell myself that the decision I Made to attend this great University would be one of the best decisions in my entire life.

Wesley

The first thing I would tell myself is to apply for more scholarships. I got lazy during my senior year, and its going to cost me in the future with student loans.

sarah

-Attend a college that makes you happy, too many 1st year students transfer and waste both time and money. Worry about that number after you find one that fits you, when you go to a school that you love, you will focus on your grades, and excell in every area of your life. At the right school, ends will meet, and the search for scholarships will continue! -Keep in touch with you family, BECAUSE, they will keep you grounded. Sure, college is a time of discovery, but your principles still stand. When you feel like you are losing touch with your roots, make a trip home. It will be the most refreshing weekend ever, PLUS free groceries! -A major question to consider: "Sure, you were taught to believe in X religion, but is it you and why do you believe what you believe??" -Most importantly, when you get to college find your academic equal, no one studies the same, no one thinks the same, and no one agrees with you 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c}. However, when you find your academic equal, they will push you, but you will grow in astounding ways.

Charity

I would tell myself to not sweat the small stuff and to take advantage of every opportunity. I think so many times I allowed myself to be overwhelmed with the work load or with details that didn’t matter. As I look back at the school I have done, I see that it wasn’t necessary. I would tell myself to prioritize my work load better and not make an assignment harder than it needs to be. Another thing I would tell myself is that opportunities only come around once. Whether it be a scholarship, a trip, or doing better on a test or paper the opportunity should always be taken. There are a few things I wish I would have done, that I didn’t. So, if I could give my high school self advice it would be to live in the moment and seize every opportunity, regardless of how scary it is or how much work it requires.

Jill

If I could give my senior self advice I would tell her to take a breath, relax, and not worry so much. Before coming to college I was frantic about making the transistion to college and I let worrisome thoughts consume my days. I was worried about being away from my family for the first time, making friends, and maintaining good grades in college. I was so consumed with ensuring that these worries wouldn't hold me back in college I forgot to take a moment to breath and enjoy the moments I had with my current friends and family. I would tell myself to stop worrying about the future because that gets one no where; don't worry about tomorrow worries today. Breath and relax and be excited for what the future holds.

Laura

I would tell myself to do every possible event that college offered my freshman year. I went to the same college as my older brother (2 years apart) and I somewhat followed his path. I would ask him about events and camps offered to freshmen and if he did not do them when he was a freshman, then I did not do them. I would give myself the advice of making my own way instead of following my brother's way. I missed out on making friends at these events my freshman year and I still regret not going. I would also tell myself to get a life. Waco has few activities to offer on the weekends, but I could have gotten out of my dorm room more often during my freshman year. I should have been more active. Regardless of all the small missed opportunities, I would tell myself to be true to who I really am despite what people may think. Life is too short to be constantly walking on eggshells.

Marisa

I would say to just jump into it! Don't be afraid to make friends and take every class seriously. Go out and try to get invovled with as much as you can. Major in what you want and don't let anyone pressure you into thinking you have to choose anything else! I would take more dual credit classes so that I could have lighter course loads throughout college. Challenge yourself and dont be afriad to try new things. Just live it up and have fun discovering who you are!!

Caroline

The adivce I would give myself, would be to take classes seriously. I would warn myself not to get distracted by the new found freedom of being a college freshman and be sure to stay on top of my grades. I would advise myself to do well in my classes, but balance that, by still participating in the "college experience." College freshman get so excited to be out from under their parents supervision that they are unable to allocate the necessary time to do well in class. The only other advice I would give myself is to sign up for the student activities the university offers and even join a sorority so that I could participate in volunteer activities and meet many new people.

TIFFANY

I would advise myself to work harder in school now so that when I came to college i could be more prepared and recieve more scholarships based on my academics. i would encourage myself to push harder insteady of just barely trying. i graduated with a 3.0 and that was just barely trying so looking back on it now i know i was capable of doing much better. i would also remind myself that every class is important and to pay attention in class insteady of playing around. if i knew then what i know now i would have focused alot more on my school work than i did.

Dallena

Live life to the fullest

Alexandria

Dear Alexandria, Don't give up. Go the extra mile. It'll be worth it, trust me. Take the dual credit courses; don't just coast through your senior year. Apply for financial aid. Ask the necessary questions. You'll wish you did. But you won't. That's okay. You'll still be alright. Just keep your head above water. Don't let anyone tell you that you won't make something of your life. Certainly don't let your current situation discourage you either. Stay determined and stay focused. Be careful of the bonds you make with people. Every person in your life has a season, including your very best friends. You'll make new friends, and they'll be lifelong. Keep an open mind. College is not going to be the way you think it will be. There's much more self responsibility, freedom, and danger. Just remain strong in your faith and your values. Be willing to adjust to certain things. Know when to stand your ground also. Congratulations for making it this far, Alex. I'm proud of you. Love, Alexandria

Paige

I would tell myself to start planning for college earlier in regards to my GPA. Schools offer more financial help with higher GPA's. Apply for as many schools as you can so you have tons of options. Never assume a school isn't for you till you visit it. If you are someone who likes active schools then check out all the sport teams they have because going to games is alot of fun!

Amanda

Don't be afraid to be yourself when meeting new people, because everyone as a freshman is in the same situation.

Ryan

If I could turn back the hands of time, I would give myself a few words of inspiration and knowledge. I would start by saying that everyone has the capability of succeeding in college, so you have nothing to worry about. Now, I know many people have repetitiously preached that the main difference between high school and college life is the freedom and the amount of responsibility that comes with that freedom. This statement is true, but don't look at the word "responsibility" as a potentially overwhelming burden. Look at it as a privelage, a challenge, an opportunity to show the world and yourself how prosperous you can be in this life. College is fantastic, and there are many fun activities to participate in. However, there are certain activities that will be tempting to participate in that you should refrain from. Make sure that the amount of time spent studying either exceeds or balances out with the time spent having fun. Remember to respect others, respect yourself, and manage your time.

Cynthia

I would go back into time and congradulate myself for making it through four years of high school first off, Than I would tell my self to be prepared because the next 4 years of your life are going to be the funnest, most challenging choices I will make that seperate me from others. It would be wise to start early so you are not lagging behind. You may want to have fun and just hang out with friends all the time but what is really important is your education. You can still have fun, but know your limits and stay focused. High school prepares you for college. College defines who you are going to be in this world as far as your career. I would also tell myself to get organized. I have realised being organized and staying on top of things really helps you stay in control. If you plan to apply for scholarships and financial aide apply early!!! Earlier the better!! Furthermore Your doing great and if you listen to my advice you will do just fine. Love you self.

Courtney

As a high school senior, I though I had everything figured out about college, but in reality I had no clue what I was getting into. If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would help my past self to try and understand what to really expect when going to college and more specifically Baylor University. I would encourage myself to join more clubs, and get more involved with the school and the community. I thought I would be overwhelmed, but turns out I had plenty of time and Baylor offers an immense amount of ways to get involved. I would advice myself not to lose touch with high school friends. When going off to college, I was more focused on making new friends at Baylor and I eventually lost touch with some wonderful friends I had back in high school. I wish I could go back in time, and help myself realize some things I didn’t know when going off to college. I guess lessons are learned nevertheless, and I can better prepare myself for the coming years at Baylor University.

Amanda

If I could go back in time and talk to my high school self, I would tell myself to be careful with your money. Work your butt off, don't slack off. It might be tough, but it will help in the end. Look for scholarships now, do not wait. I know it is a lot of work, and is time consuming but if you can get free money now it can help you later. Also, I know it might be difficult, but in between work, school, and homework try to get in some you time, some extracurricular activies.

Chasity

I would've packed less. No in all seriousness I would tell myself to be more open and outgoing my first semester there. Going away to college is an excellent time to start over and really figure out who you are and become the person you want to be. I think first semester I was still stuck in the same mindset I had in high school. My high school was very small so I saw the same people everyday all day for four years so I wasn't used to branching out and meeting new people, a trait that hindered me the first semester of college. I wish I had tried to experience more of the social aspect of college the first semester than I did.

Catherine

If I could talk to my high school senior self, the first thing I would do is assure myself that everything is going to turn out okay. Great, even. I would try to ease my biggest anxiety- making friends- by reminding myself that everyone in college is looking for friends. It isn't like walking into a room of already formed cliques. It's a bunch of freshman who are in the same boat as you, and if you reach out a little bit, you'll find people who will support you, challenge you, and help you grow. I would then tell myself not to worry about changing my major once or twice. Or five times. In fact, I would encourage myself to switch as many times as I want. Exploring your options is how you learn what you like, after all. My last words of advice to 17 year old me: Don't buy that printer- you'll never use it. Go to Food for Thought and get the vinaigrette salad- it's made for you. And finally, soak in every moment of college- I'm jealous that you still have four glorious years of it left.

Meggaen

Focus on liberal arts. Make sure you read great works. Pursue international relations.

Vivian

I would tell myself, to continue to trust in God, depend on my faith and move forward. Stay in touch with those older than myself, like counselors, other college friends and reletavies who have had the oppoturnity to go to college, away or colleges within traveling distance of my home. Find out about courses, take college trips in order to view campus grounds and campus life on campus and off. Get a direct fell of taking my education a level higher. Look into all forms of opportunity to apply for monies available to persons who wish to continue their education after high school. As well I would tell myself to look into trade schools to, because everyone is not college material. At least a trade may work for a while. It may open up an avenue to look at other opportunities that may lead to college. Do my best to zero in on a major, and go for it.

Katrina

I would tell myself which teachers to take and not to take in college. There were a lot of teachers that I really enjoyed and informed me about a lot of interesting subjects. But there were also a couple of teachers who impacted me in negative ways. However, I do believe that they made me stronger and gave me the power to overcome anything life throws at me. I would also tell myself little things, like "make sure to go to the arobics class more often," or "Be a leader during softball season." I never regret anything I do but it would have been nice to know these things. In the end, I'm glad my life has played out the way it has and I wouldn't change a thing.

Jason

If I could talk to myself in high school, I would tell myself not to be afraid and wait so long. I was always afraid I was not smart enough to contend with college work, but now that I have experienced it I've realized that I can do it. It took a job layoff to finally go to college, and knowing what I do now, I would have started right after high school. Instead I have struggled in jobs that were not fulfilling, and struggled to get by. I also would have been able to secure more financial help to go to college when I was younger. Now I have to fret over every penny I need for education. Finally, I would tell myself to be proud of what you have accomplished and what you can accomplish in the future. You are smart and hard working, you can do anything you put your mind to. Your life will be happier, and easier if you go for it now and not later.

Nancy

Nancy do not begin to imagine what you want to do with your life because honestly you have no idea. Explore! Follow your passions. Don't take classes that you feel you need to take to satisfy a career goal. Take classes in subjects that you are interested in--you will soon find you are interested in a lot. This is okay Nancy. I want you to do something else, listen. Truly listen not only to your teachers but to your fellow classmates. Let their ideas in and see from another person's perspective. This is the true college experience, opening yourself up to other minds and entering into discussions. See how the world is not from your eyes but let your friends lend you theirs. You will begin to see things as you never have before. However, do not let go of your own sight. Your ideas are just as good as theirs and they should be heard. Help influence others as they influence you. And lastly do not worry about money. Money has never been happiness. True happiness is discovering what you love to do and pursuing it. Pursue it. You will not regret it. Enjoy the adventure.

Hannah

I would tell myself that everything will be ok and that all of the worrying and stressing isn't necessary. Yes, you will have to work hard and apply yourself, but you are prepared. You will find friends and you will find a place at Baylor. You made the right decision to go with your heart and go to Baylor. In the beginning it will be hard to be on your own and to be away from your friends and family, but you will find an amazing friend group that loves you for who you are. For the first time, I promise that you will find people who are like you. I also promise that college professors are not as scary as people make them out to be. As long as you try to talking to them and get to know them, some of them are actually really amazing and inspiring people. When it comes down to it, I promise that everything will be ok.

Asia

I would study a lot harder in all of my classes. Having a higher GPA would have allowed me to get into the schools that I wanted the first time around. Also it would have helped improve my advanced placement test scores and give me more college credit hours. My senior year in high school was a great deal more stressful than my first year in college. If I had developed more aggressive study habits in high school I would not have to try so hard to tailor my study habits now.

Casey

If I could go back and talk to my high school senior self, I would only have one thing to say, embrace it! As a graduating high school senior, I was extremely uncertain about my career path, goals, and passions. I was academically and atheletically successful but I was worried I would make the wrong choice for my college and career path. I've realized over the years that there is no wrong decision. Whatever path you may choose for your life, it is the right path because it is your decision! So the best you can do is embrace it and live your life passionately! It has taken me quite a few years to be confident enough in my decisions to say this but I am extremely happy and proud of my college experience and career path. What all high school seniors should be told is that it is not going to be easy and it shouldn't be, you don't want it to be. Focus on the journey, not the destination and you will be exceedingly pleased with your college choices, memories, and life goals.