Brown University Top Questions

At the end of next summer, you and your best friends will head your separate, college-bound ways. So remember to value your time with them throughout the year; don’t become irritated over petty disagreements, be supportive, be dependable, be honest, and be fun-loving. Cherish this time with your friends. I know the college application and decision processes are stressful, but keep this in mind: if you learn as much as you can about each college, when it comes time to make a decision, there can be no ‘wrong’ or ‘misinformed’ one. So do your thorough college research, and don’t sweat it. College requires an immense amount of organizational and time-management skills to which you’re not accustomed. During high school, avoid this future difficulty by preparing yourself; focus on exceptional backpack and binder organization, even when it seems excessive or unnecessary. Be excited about your transition into college! As my college move-in day approached, my anticipation was laced with worry. However, I found that students who felt excitement, rather than worry, towards the college transition more quickly adapted to the dramatic change. Oh—and try harder in math first semester—you get a B.

The Top 10 Things You Need to Know to be Successful (Well Survive) in College 1. You'll miss your bed maybe more than family (it's okay) 2. Find a group of friends that understand you, keep them 3. Dress nice for 9AMs people are actually watching 4. If you drink, remember you have to wake up the next morning 5. Set "The Middle" by Jimmy Eat World as your alarm, he wrote your life story (minus the whole girl part) 6. Doing work sucks, but you still have to do it 7. Waking up for class sucks, especially Monday's, but once again you still have to do it 8. OFFICE HOURS!!! 9. Even though it's easier to feel bad for yourself, remember you got here for a reason 10. Everyone makes mistakes you are no expection,first semester is the best worst time of your life. If your grades start to slip don't worry and remember you're better than that. 11 (but only because I like you). Don't put having fun on hold just so you can get work done. You will never have another time like this.

My Darling Christine, Although I realize you must be mighty scared out of your wits to even think about doing so, I strongly urge you to get on that rollercoaster called Life As We Know It and finally embark on the adrenaline-pumping adventure you only dared to taste in your dreams, dreams from which you awoke in bittersweet frustration because you didn't think those dreams could ever reach fruition. Are you not currently living a nightmare, one which creeps along the shadows of both day and night, cruelly reminding you of your Fear of the Unknown and What Ifs? So chat up that one guy you've been admiring from afar for so long. Enroll in those hip-hop dance workshops. Take that leadership position, even if it means talking to a humongous group of people and feeling like your heart's beating faster than it does when you're pulling an all-nighter and racing against a ticking deadline bomb. Open your heart to new people and experiences, especially those that frighten you the most. Fasten that safety belt and take the worthwhile plunge. With Love, Your Future Self P.S. You're braver than you think!

I would tell myself to slow down and have far more caution over how you navigate pre-orientation socializing. Nowadays, social media enables us to connect with other prospective students and other students who have been accepted to your school. This may seem like an excellent way to make new friends, organize activities, ask questions, become popular, and meet students with common interests. In reality however, it's a wonderful way to set yourself up for disappointment. Online friendships and not genuine. Messaging and chatting does not allow you to asses the true nature and friend potential of a person. You should always wait until you reach campus to socialize. This ensures that you spend your pre-college summer doing more productive activities. You should get offline and use the time after you have been accepted and enrolled to familiarize yourself with the institution and all it has to offer. Seek opportunities in your area to build your resume ans augment your skill set, such as volunteering or internships. Most importantly, use this time during the transition to spend time with your family and friends, who you already know and love. Take time to appreciate the transition. Don't rush.

I would tell myself not to feel compelled to jump s rapidly into the "adult world." I mean this by saying that I felt I was obligated to "not think outside box" after such an amazing liberal arts experience and simply be a doctor, a lawyer, or a business person. This was a huge mistake. I wish I had spoken to more of the available alumni, Brown professors, and others before deciding that law school was the choice for me and specifically, what kind of law I wanted to practice.

You will meet people unlike anyone you've ever met before. They will defy your expectations. Check your preconceptions--that girl, laughing like the girl you hated in high school, will be your best friend. The boy on the track team, the one you wanted to call a "lumbering jock," who you assumed would proudly claim not to read, has read more than you have. There's always books you haven't read. It'll be scary, because these people know so much. Who are you to assert anything? Who are you to discuss your thoughts if you haven't read half as much as they have? You'll be scared, but be yourself. The connections you make, the thoughts you have--they're unique. You can contribute. And please contribute, in class, in dorm-room discussions that last until the sun rises. Listen, too. When you fail that first paper, don't go cry. That does nothing. Throw it at your friends. One will fix your commas, another will find a fallacy. The history buff will identify an oversimplification. Fix it. And smile, because college is about improving. To succeed you must fail. But never forget to smile.

Ignore anyone who says any of the following: "You're smart for a black girl, but you won't get in. No one from around here has what it takes to survive there. You're too scared to go that far away. Just watch -- you'll stay right here, like you always have." Ignore them. Send that application anyway. I know you want to pretend it doesn't matter one way or another to you, that you're doing it "just to see what happens." But we both know you want to go to Brown so badly, it hurts, and before the admissions officers see that you deserve to, you need to believe it yourself. You will feel out of place sometimes around your many wealthy peers, but remember: you're not the only one receiving financial aid. Sometimes you will feel like you only got in because you're black, but when you end your freshman year with a near-perfect transcript, it won't be because your skin is a certain shade of brown. My advice to you, Mini-Me, is: don't be afraid. You can do this. You were meant to do this.

As a high school senior, I was independent and hard working. I looked to college as an escape from home life and a way to prolong my becoming an adult since my childhood was cut short by adult responsibilies. My college choice came down to the University of Miami and Brown University, which would cost less. For most people, the decision would be obvious, however, I wanted a fun social life to make up for what was missed in high school. I went back and fourth with the decision until the absolute last day and decided on Brown, but dwelled on the tv-like social life I gave up at Miami. Looking back, I still think about the fun I could have had in Miami, but I would not have grown as much academically and personally nor made such deep connections as I did at Brown. My advice to my high school self would be, "Don't be afraid, the best in life has yet to come. Go to Brown to focus on your academics and becoming the best woman you can be. After that, you will have your whole life to live...with more money to live it with."

- Congrats, you graduated but don’t start celebrating too soon. There’s a lot of work left. - Think about what kind of person you really want to be and go make it happen. - Meet everyone you can. The more you learn about others, the more you’ll know about yourself. - Don’t forget to drop a line to your “homeboys” every now and then. You’ll be glad you did.- Set goals but be open to detours. Often the most rewarding journeys are on the roads less travelled.- The skills you’re learning now will be outdated soon. That’s ok. Learn to love learning!- Alcohol is actually the most dangerous drug. It is crazy-hard to avoid but whatever choice you make, don’t let it dominate who you are.- Don’t let yourself be stupid. It’s not cool. Always put in your best effort. You’ll sleep better.- Start working on your post-grad move (career, graduate school, etc.) in your Junior year. Remember, you started picking colleges in your Sophomore year.- Don’t be afraid of failure. At the end of the day, if your uniform isn’t dirty, you haven’t been in the game.

Dear Self, You will come to a crossroads several times in your life. What you do now will affect the options available to you and the decisions you will have to make in the future. Please listen to the following advice so that you will know what you need to do when that time comes. 1) Always do your homework and study for tests. This is important, because the more knowledge you gain now, the easier it will be to learn while you are in college. 2) Strive to get the best grades possible. The better your GPA the more opportunities for scholarships and options for colleges/universities you will have available to you. 3) Apply for scholarships early. Start your freshmen year, the more practice you get the better your odds of getting the scholarship! It is never to early to start this! 4) Listen to your elders, they know what they are talking about. Talk to people that have already gone through college life and were successful. The better you do in school, the more opportunities available to you. 5) Never give up! Hard work and committment really will pay off in the end. Sincerey, Your Future Self

If I could go back in time, I would tell my high school self not to rush things. I was too obsessed with not "falling behind" that I rushed and did poorly in my earlier years. I'm still trying to make up for that today. I'd tell my high school self to take things slowly and to be careful in regards to my studies.

I would tell myself- do not try to hurry life. I thought that I needed to go straight from high school to a four-year university, make my parents proud, and have the perfect college experience. I quickly learned that being on my own was expensive (I went to school full time and then had to take on two part time jobs). I also learned that I missed my parents. I left home before I grew my wings to fly. I was at a university for one sememster and I then came home and started at the local community college. That is the biggest thing I would have told myself - do not underestimate the worth of a junior college. I have grown so much since I came back home and went to school here locally. I have learned to handle money more efficiently and quickly found out the importance of class size. Had I known then what I know now I probably would not be the same girl but luckly I did not. I have grown into the young woman that brings the pride in my parents hearts.

I would tell myself not to be afraid. Don't be afraid to put yourself out there and make friends. Don't be afraid to try something that scares you. Grades are important, but at a place like Brown, grades aren't everything. Do something interesting, and strive to be interesting. Give everyone and everything a chance. You might be surprised. But also, don't be afraid to let some things go.

I was devatstated. Although I was surrounded by the beautiful scenery of New Zealand, I didn't get out of bed for three days. Why? I was waitlisted by my top school, Dartmouth College. I felt that my life was over, as if the Dartmouth admissions team sought me out just to ruin me. I mean, sure, I got into Brown University, but it wasn't my sweet Datmouth. Before this apocalypse, I began to notice that maybe Dartmouth and I weren't a good fit. However, I pined after Dartmouth for 4 years and I wasn't about to let Brown University take its place so easily. One year later, I have finished my first year of college at Brown University. I would rather be nowhere else. Less to say I wish didn't let my emotions ruin my trip. Life is about adjusting and rolling with the tides. In high school, I always fought against the ocean and it would erode the very thing I was fighting for. I deserved to have the time of my life and didn't because no man and fight the power of life and its tides.

you need to hit the ground running no matter how bright you are.

I would say not to be afraid of getting out there and making new friends and trying new things.

Take advantage of the Open Curriculum and don't be afraid to broaden your academic horizons.

As a high school senior, I stressed over not knowing what I wanted to major in when I got into college. So, if I could go back in time knowing what I know today about college, I would tell myself to RELAX because it is not important for students to make this decision ahead of time. Relax ... take the time to learn new things that may intrigue or interest you ... and, it will come to you! Yes, my parents provided me with similar guidance when I was in high school; however, I was unable to hear their wise advice at that time. But, maybe - just maybe - I would be able to listen to myself this time around if I was able to go back in time.

You want to do everything, to meet new people, to take super hard classes and prove that you belong. These are generally good things, but focus less on taking super hard classes and more on really getting to know Brown. Go to interesting lectures, spend time listening to all of the Acapella groups and maybe even try out for one. Definitely don't always lock yourself away in your room studying but find great friends who you can both have fun and study effectively with. Make sure you don't let go of your health. Not sleeping is a relatively normal part of college, but make sure you are eating regularly and find some way to get exercise (I strongly recommend TaeKwonDo because the team here is AWESOME). Make sure that you are having fun in everything that you do and if something stops being fun, stop doing it (this includes academic subjects). Finally, spend some time getting to know your professors. They would love to talk to you and they are really awesome, interesting, helpful people who you can learn a lot from and who will undoubtedly enrich your time at Brown. Have a great time!

Pace yourself! You don't have to jump into the hardest classes during your first semester of freshman year. Take some time to explore a variety of classes, and get the feel for how college classes are different from your highschool classes. Develop effective studying strageties before trying to pile up too much on your plate. You have 7 more semesters after the first one to get settled into your major. Don't forget to get to know as many people as you can -your social life will be just as important as your academic life. And all those new friends you make can introduce you to new classes and academic experiences that you might not figure out on your own! Most of all, savor your time in college, enjoy every day for what it is.

Be prepared to completely change your lifestyle. You stay up later, study outside of class of more, and are responsible for everything yourself. Don't expect to keep in touch with all of your high school friends. Get involved with activties on campus right away. Sign up for everything, including things you didn't do in high school, and drop the things you don't like after a week but at least try!

Know that it will be hard, you'll feel lonely at times and you'll realize everyone in a classroom is either prettier/ smarter/ tougher than you. Know that it's normal to feel this way and that each one of those individuals are feeling the same way. Also know that despite these insecurities, you are about to have the best 4 years of your life- embrace it. Ditch that 10 page paper and go out with friends- you wont remember that all nighter you pulled but you will remember the crazy night with friends and all the people you met. Know that there's an 80{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} chance that he's just trying to get into your pants and if that's what you're into, then that's absolutely fine. Be open to new opportunities- think twice before saying no, you're not the same person you used to be the the key to finding out who you are is to jump right in and encounter new situations. Lastly, never lose focus of why you're here: academics. Life is about balance. You worked hard to get in here- enjoy it to the fullest.

Worry less, do more. College application is a tedious, mind-wrecking process. Know that regardless of where you go, you will enjoy some aspect of college and college-style education. But before then, enjoy the time you have--with your friends, family--enjoy the summer (or winter); get a job; learn a skill; read a book; pick up a sport. The more life experience you have going into college, the more fun you will have meeting people and contributing to your community. Be alive starting now.

The best advice I could give myself as a high school senior is to start applying for scholarships as a high school Senior. The one thing I regret most since I have graduated is waiting until my third year to apply for scholarships. I am not as far along to receiving my associates’ degree as I would like, and all because I could not afford to take more classes. I am in my third year of college, yet my credits make it seem like I am just starting my second year. Because I waited so long to start applying for scholarships, I am already a year behind, and counting. At the time I was a senior, I did not think money would be an issue while attending a community college so close to home. I did not account for extra expenditures such as books, a laptop, and school supplies. It is never too early to apply for scholarships, and I wish I thought like that while I was still in high school.

From perfect quiz scores to acing standardized tests, I always saw intelligence and success as directly proportional. I assumed natural brains were the foundation for climbing high in the academic world. After completing my first year at Brown University, I learned how inaccurate those thoughts were. I learned that the secret to limitless success is self-motivation. Surrounded by some of the brightest minds of my age, Brown showed me that inherent intelligence is extremely helpful; however, that will not take a student far. Instead, it is the personal desire to achieve that can carry any student to success. Success is not handed to you. Nor is it provided for you. Instead, success is chosen. In your senior year of high school, before embarking on your college journey, is the time to make that choice. I did not become a Brown student, nor did I become enrolled in a direct medical program. Instead, I choose to be. Being older now, I see how success is nothing but a choice, and it is a choice I made in the past and a choice I want to continue making in the future.

If I could speak to myself as a senior, I would warn myself that Brown is more liberal than the environment that I come from, and to brace myself. I would tell myself that the classes are more challenging than what I am used to, so I need to bring my A plus game, and to be on top of my studies every second of every day. I would remind myself why I want to go to school, and to remember that whenever the going gets tough, because it will get tough. Life away from home will be hard at first, but it will get better, and money is going to be tight, after paying for books, so stick to your meal plan. More importantly, I would tell myself to have fun, relax sometimes, and do the best that I can and be happy with that.

Having been homeschooled, I was never technically a senior in high school. Rather, I received my GED following 11th grade and enrolled in a community college. However, if I had the opportunity to go back in time and talk to myself in high school in order to prepare for the transition, I would insist on getting to know the instructors at my new school. Since I never had any need to adjust to different teachers at home, I struggled somewhat with this aspect. Had I sought to establish some sense of familiarity with my professors from the beginning, I believe that I would have been able to pinpoint important concepts more quickly, thereby smoothing the adaptation process. Beyond just classwork though, I would have advised my former self to talk with staff members as soon as I enrolled to ensure that I would be ready to transfer to a 4-year institution. Instead, I delayed until midway through my sophomore year and had to make up for lost time when considering potential schools. While I still found a good fit and was accepted to my college of choice, I could have avoided a lot of stress by simply planning ahead.

Relax! It's your senior year. Have fun. Kick up your heels. Enjoy life. Don't worry about your grades, your baseball stats, or your community involvement. You've already been accepted early decision, and it's only December. Wait a minute! What kind of advice is that? Yes, I've been admitted to Brown, but even if my senior grades aren't on my admissions form, I need that AP biology and calculus background for college courses. Slack off in baseball? Never. Athletics earned me a slot on Brown's Division I team. I need all the practice I can get, and I want MVP and All-District status again. As for community involvement, I can't quit after putting 3 years into the "Under Wraps" blanket drive I initiated in 2008 to help Middle Tennessee tornado victims. In 2009-2010, my effort went community-wide but with much more work. More volunteers meant more organization and coordination, publicity, logistics, and delivering over 1000 blankets for Haitian orphans and to Nashville flood victims. It comes down to this. Never skimp on effort, and you'll never have to look back. That's why I'm a freshman at Brown.

It has been so valuable to attend Brown University because even in the few short months that I have been there, I can already sense personal growth. I arrived in Providence, Rhode Island eager to be trained on my intended career--to gain insight into the medical field and try my best to prove my competitiveness as a future medical school applicant. As any student that resides on Brown's campus, I have come to realize that the most important education that I receieve at college is not in any way academic. I have learned life's most important lessons by interacting with people, living with strangers that become friends, being independent and making my own decisions. I walked through the Van Winkle gates eager and ready to grow academically--I have been lucky enough to have already grown morally, socially, culturally, ane genuinely.

I hope to be a development economist and I'm so glad I chose Brown. I'm glad not only because Brown is one of the few schools that has a major devoted solely to development studies, and not only because Brown has some of the most renowned development economists in the country, but also because of so many other things. Brown has a wonderful student body, full of altruistic, intelligent, and interesting people who can talk about MLB standings, Kant, and farm subsidies - all in one conversation. They are people who are welcoming, caring, and inspiring. I am also glad I went to Brown because of Brown's excellent professors. Even in my larger classes, with upwards of 100 people, my professors still know me on a first-name basis. They are effective teachers who make me want to go to class, not because I'll regret ditching when it's time for the next test, but because I know I'll regret not learning what they have to say. I feel that, at Brown, I've gotten an excellent and fulfilling academic experience, like I expected. However, I've also grown as a person, which I didn't.

My college experience has been amazing! A big part of the experience is meeting new people with different backgrounds and Brown provides plenty of opportunities! My friends at school come from all over the United States and one of my best friends is even from Croatia! Everyone has grown up differently depending on geographic location, socioeconomic status, and family dynamics. My friends' views can be vastly different from mine, but we strive to maintain a sense of respect and an open dialogue. We all have the common goal of education. Our strengths and weaknesses are complementary, serving as a reminder of the importance of cooperation. Attending Brown has been well worth the cost of attendence because I am gaining an education in life as well as in chemistry. I am practicing tolerance of others while expanind my worldview. More practically, I am living on my own for the first time. Beyond all lofty talk of the paradigm changing experience that is college, I cook, clean, and care for myself. I am moving towards financial independence. For me, college is the first step towards taking full control of my life. Independence is truly valuable.

I have a greater understanding of who i am as a person and as a student. Before attending Brown i thought i knew who i was as a student; however, i had never been challenged or pushed to my limits before. At Brown I found out that i can overcome challenges alone and that nothing i set my mind to is impossible. I grew as a student and became more confident in my academic abilities as a result. In addition, i took the risk of exploring and possibly changing what i thought was my life dream. In the process i discovered that what i thought i wanted is not at all what i want. I found my true passion at Brown and dont think i would have been able to do so at any other institution. I am greatful for coming to Brown. I know what i am capable of accomplishing. My college experience gave me personal growth, made me more independent and brought me wisdom that i would not have obtained other wise. I love my college and cannot wait to see what the next three years will bring.

I've been attending college since I was a High school Junior. I was told that I should be a sign language interpreter due to my background of sign language. However, I just couldn't get myself interested and didn't have the passion and time to complete the program. I wasted valuable time and money on classes that I never will use. I then found the Dental Assisting program and have discovered my love for the human anatomy and teeth anatomy. This is where I found my passion to continue on to Dental Hygiene. I learned that no matter how much someone else can convince me that what they may think is the best for me or what would be the best beneficial choice for me, I have to be happy to succeed. I found a sense of accomplishment after graduating from the dental Assisting program that I hadn't found yet anywhere else. It is only because of my education that I can persue future dreams that I otherwise wouldn't be able to even come close to.

After Freshman year at Brown University, I cannot wait to go back after the summer to continue with my studies and foster the relationships I began with professors, advisors, and fellow students. Thus far, college has been extremely fruitful and completely worth the tuition! My professors have successfully stretched my mind and encouraged my intellectual curiosity. I have experienced discussions like no other with my peers and professors. In addition to education, I have been able to meet incredible people with the same passion for learning as me. Being surrounded by motivated people has brought out the best in me - intellectually and socially. College is a rigorous, close-knit community that I would wholly regret not being part of. I also know that I have chosen the perfect college for my needs. My goal is to become a neurosurgeon after majoring in neuroscience at Brown. The prestigious neuroscience program and excellent medical school preparation at Brown were two of the main reasons I chose to attend this institution.

As a high school senior, I wasn't worried about making new friends, or living in a new city, or taking harder classes, or choosing the right school for me, or declaring a major, or any of the typical fears and concerns about the transition to college. I knew that they would all work out in one way or another, and everything would be great. However, throughout twelfth grade, I was very concerned about leaving all of my best friends and being forced to start a new life. I knew that everything would change suddenly and I knew I would miss my friends too, too much. But now, as I'm beginning my second semester of college, I want to tell my high school senior self not to worry. Because we are all still friends, and though things have changed, it's a natural part of the transition, just like all those other things I didn't worry about. I want to tell my high school senior self that I still plan on inviting all of my high school friends to my wedding - nothing has really changed.

I would tell myself to have an open mind. I'd teach myself some serious time-management skills (don't procrastinate!) and point out the best places to study. I'd warn myself against choosing the seaside-scented body wash, volunteering my curtain rod as a pinata stick, and telling my friends where I keep the food. Otherwise, I think I've already had the best first semester possible.

Over a college career, your goals and interests change dramatically. When I came to Brown, I didn?t take this into account. I thought I knew exactly what I wanted to do with my career and life, and immediately began taking classes exclusively for the major that would take me there. However, as I did more research on career paths associated with my art history degree, what I wanted to do with my life changed. By the time I realized I might not want to go into the art field, I was stranded with few other options for my major. I am now plagued by ?what ifs?. What if I would have been passionate about English? What if there's a major I haven?t even heard of that would have been perfect for me? I should have explored my options more fully, researched different career paths and sought advice from counselors. Most schools don?t require you to declare your major until sophomore year. Take advantage of that extra time to really research all of your optios. Because I didn't, I now wonder where I would have gone if I had taken full advantage of my college experience.

The first thing I would tell myself is to not fret over whether I will do fine or not living on my own without the comfort or help of my parents down the street. I'm more than capable of taking great care of myself when left to my own devices and should have more faith in myself. I can even come to terms with cold weather, though I would leave out how much worse wind makes the cold. With that worry out of the way, I would then make sure my senior self applied to many more four year scholarships than one time scholarships even if it's more work. The third thing would be to steel myself for dorm life and the lack of alone time that comes with it. My senior self wouldn't have to worry about losing touch with my close friends back home, either, and there are plenty of good people to meet in college. Overall, senior self, get ready for a wonderful adventure that is only once in a life time. College life should be experienced with some caution but a lot of freedom as well.

If I had the chance to go back and talk to myself as a senior, I would tell myself, 'Indy. You know how you think AP Chemistry is a walk in the park, and you can get by without studying. College chemistry is not like that, and you should start hitting the books now. It'll save you a lot of frustration. Trust me'. I would say do not depend on homework and that reading the textbook and highlighting works best. Something important for me was the distance from my family, and that was difficult. I'd tell myself that my family is always there for me, and that I can always count on them, and as soon as I realize this the transition will be a lot easier. Why? Because my family is my heart. My mother and sisters are supportive and try to understand everything. I would tell myself that over and over again, and then sneak in that co-ed bathrooms aren't as bad as they sound, and that after I get used to it, it's actually funny to share a bathroom with boys. I'd also say, relax. Everything will be just fine.

First and foremost I would tell younger incarnation that it's okay to be scared of making the leap to college and that, although I will miss my family, I will soon make lots of great new friends and the time will soon start to fly by. Secondly, I would tell myself to be prepared to work hard, and that I shouldn't grow slack in my studies because the professors will not let up in assignments, tests, and papers, including a certain math exam that I would warn myself not to underestimate but would not dare give the answers to lest I change history. As a final piece of advise, I would tell myself to seriously give some thought in what I want to major in and what classes I intend to take, as well as to start polishing my resume for summer internships so the work doesn't build up and take me by surprise by the time winter break rolls around. Then, before fading back to my own timeline I would remind myself that I'm going to have a great time and that I should just relax and enjoy the ride.

Dear Past-Margaret, Hi, it's me! Well, it's you! That is to say... it's Future-Margaret! I just finished my first semester at Brown University, and let me tell you, you-me: you're going to love it! There's so much to do and to learn. You've already settled in with a great group of friends. But there are some things that you should know: 1. If you prioritize, you CAN do everything you wanted to: classes, theatre, a cappella, community service, friends, sleep... 2. Speaking of sleep, you really SHOULD sleep. Pulling all-nighters is NOT fun, and your work is much better when you're well-rested. Trust me. 3. Rejoice! The infamous "freshman 15" is a myth (at least for us) but still remember to eat your vegetables. Mom will know if you don't. I still don't know how, but she always knows. 4. And most importantly, I know it's hard, because you've never had to be "the new kid" before, so it's scary, but go out on a limb. Remember that everyone else here is "the new kid", too. Your friend in the future, Future-Margaret

"College is the BEGINNING of my life." That's what I told myself all through high school. In college, I was going to pursue my true interests, discover my true self, create a new path for my future . What I had forgotten however, and what I have come to realize in college, was that my life before has always been a part of the journey to where I am now. My international education and my mixed heritage have not existed to close the doors of my past in order to better relate to my peers, but have provided a space for exchange and learning all in a life I thought could only be created once I got here. Rather, my past has only added to who I am becoming at Brown University, and has ALL to do with where I am going. It is important for you to remember this when choosing an insitute of higher education. Stop thinking about how college is going to remodel you and start thinking about what you bring with you. College is just a transition, a turning of the page in the book of life, an opportunity for rebirth, yes, but also for progress.

Dear Alyssa 2008, there is absolutely nothing I can tell you which will sufficiently prepare you for the exhilirating yet exhausting experience that is college. More important than the things you will learn in your classes are the things you will learn about life. You will be leaving your little bubble of high school. You will learn about things you didn't even know existed. You will learn to see the world in ways you never imagined. And the most amazing, confusing part is that the more you know, the less you know. The pillars you built your world on will be torn down. It will be frustrating and confusing, but rewarding too because you will be getting closer to figuring out who you are and what life is all about. And after all, how can you decide what you want to do with your life without first understanding what it's all about? Don't worry, you will meet incredible professors, classmates, and friends. Together, you will figure it out and make lasting memories. Get ready for the ride of your life! Love, Alyssa 2010

As a senior, applying to college can be an extremely strenuous, stressful, and emotional time. If I could go back in time, I would probably give myself this speech: Spencer, take a breath! I know that at the moment it may seem as though the applications will never end, but the struggle yields an invaluable reward. Attending college is truly an experience unlike any other, and while I know you're striving to get into top schools it is my personal belief that in the end everyone manages to get into a school they will love. So relax, bear the load for a while because you too will end up in a school you love. But the end of applications does not mean to stop applying yourself. My second piece of advice is to maintain the good work effort throughout the year. I know that you may have a desire to slow down on their work as senior year winds down. College work is anything but easy, keep yourself sharp by staying on top of your school work. Lastly, when you arrive at your campus next semester please be open minded! This is the most important advice I can offer.

Dear Self: Getting into the college you get into will come with a few unexpected doubts. These are completely normal. Even when you get there, it's going to be hard. The adjustment part of it will be the worst. But with the support of friends, family and the Brown community, you will get through it, and it will be worth it. The homesickness will fade to bearable in time. The cold will be less cold. Just don't let the adjustment get to you too badly. They really mean it when they say these are the best years of our lives. Don't let anything hold you down, and you know what I'm talking about. Just think about things a little bit more. Also, you have NO idea how crucial those scholarships are. Mom and Dad really can't pay for school as easily as you might think. Love, Me P.S. Go to sleep at a decent hour!

I have learned so much in my first semester of college. The transition was more difficult than I imagined, but I can honestly say that it has added to my character. Most importantly I would say to always be true to myself and to be a leader not a follower. There are many opportunities to get off track and I would remind myself that my studies are the top priority. Extracurricular activities that are productive and challenging are an important aspect of college life and will allow me to grow as a student and a person. So I would offer the advise to get involved and to give back. Social activities are important as well but I must consider the ramifications of my actions and my associations, and remember that my reputation is important to me as a person and to my future. I must keep an open mind, be willing to try new things, be supportive of my friends and grateful for the opportunity that I have to further my education.

Study calculus during the summer, you are gonna NEED it!

Congratulations on finishing four years of high school, here comes the reward. College takes everything you like about high school (a wide variety of electives, lots of extra-curriculars, and social growth) to the next level while increasing your freedom. High school is like being a dog on a very short leash. In college, you are on a leash that stretches for miles, allowing you to walk wherever you want. With this much freedom and opportunity come choices that you get to make. My advice is to try to find a balance in your life that you are comfortable with. You can choose your own classes, your own class times, and whether or not you do the work for class. Try some challenging classes, and some easier ones for fun. You can choose to join clubs or read in your room. I would say try both to see what you like better. College is a chance to figure out what things really make you happy. There's plenty of time to do anything you want to, so keep an open mind, try new things, and follow your interests. You'll likely be happy with where that takes you.

There is truly nothing I can think of that would make Brown a better match for me. Whether in the classroom or out with friends, I find it hard to stop smiling as I simply relish every moment I am there. While it would be impossible to pinpoint the exact source of this compatibility, I do believe that a great deal of it has to do with the individuals who surround me. If I have learnt one thing in life, it is that our existence as human beings is thoroughly interconnected. Love must be both given and received, true happiness must be shared, and laughter can only be infectious if there is someone else listening. Perhaps then, the key to finding true joy is discovering those with whom we enjoy sharing it and surrounding ourselves with these individuals. It is only because of the wonderful relationships I have with my peers and professors at school that I can fully reap the benefits of such an amazing academic institution. My appreciation of Brown University goes far beyond my interactions with the people there; however, it is because of these people that I am able to truly appreciate its full splendor.

I?d say to myself: take off those blinders. Actively avoid preconceptions and value judgments, and you will gain much more from your surroundings. The power of a liberal arts education lies in true immersion in an idea, until it relates to everything that you encounter in your daily life?from class to a friend?s story about her childhood. Clear, unclouded observation is the best way to be introduced to an idea. Later on you can analyze, deconstruct and think through every possible permutation of a concept, but in the beginning just keep your mind and senses open. This will help you figure out what opportunities might be influential to you. When I was in college I was an art major, but when the Computer Science department recruited for a National Science Foundation project I became involved and it changed my art permanently. At first glance a videogame about human immunology might seem unrelated to my field of interest, but it taught me a new skill set and showed me the value of interdisciplinary thinking. The more relationships you find between ?separate? fields, the more interesting your perspective of the world will be.