California State University-Fullerton Top Questions

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

Elizabeth

My undergraduate experience has taught numerous things, but one in particular fact about life that I will never forget. I was fortunate to meet a professor that saw my potential and worked with me to help me achieve my goal of being accepted into graduate school for Athletic Training. It was in the time I was working with him that I learned this invaluable lesson. He told me that in life, it doesn't matter how much knowledge you have; what matters is what you choose to do with that knowledge and how you better yourself and others with it. In my profession, a vast knowledge of the human body and it's functions are imperative, however, you must also know how to apply the information and be able to make it understandeable for those around you (i.e. students, athletes, parents). Along my way, I have leaned on many other professsionals to learn from. I wouldn't be where I am today if it weren't for those people. I am forever grateful. I look forward to the day when I get to share my knowledge with others and when students learn from me as a well respected professional.

Todd

My name is Todd Bruno and I come from a family of four children me being the oldest with three younger sisters. My parents have struggled my whole life keeping a roof over our heads and food on the table. They didn't attend college and they told me that they would do anything they could to help put me through college. Unfortuneatly my senior year of high school my father made a bad investment and lost a rental home which he was planning on using to fund both mine and my sisters college careers. My dads dream of sending us through college was shattered but i refused to not go. So far I have been able to earn an Associates degree 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} on my own and it is my goal to finish getting my Bachelors degree so that I can tell my dad he DID put me through college maybe not financially but by being there for me my entire life whenever I needed him. So what I have gotten out of college is a sense of pride and determination and it is valuable to me because I get fulfill both my dream and my dads dream.

Justin

I have learned so much through my college experience. I definitely noticed my own growth as a person. I learned how to take on more responsibilities, and also about the importance of time management. I have no regrets about college, and continue to cherish every moment of it.

Agustina

College is more than just buying textbooks, studying for exams, and sitting in a room with 100 other students in a lecture hall, it more about learning to be free. In my months in college I realized that now I am on my own and that there are no strings holding me, I am free to do so many things I couldn't do before: choosing my classes and professors, take little trips to the beach or the neighborhood park to relax after a long week of studying, or just go on a walk at whatever time I desire. From college I earned freedom but more importantly I gained an insight of control and responsibility; when it is the right time to enjoy life and when I should be focused in my studies. I am beginning to learn about the college experience and I plan to continue and finish the journey.

Wyatt

Besides the academic learning in college, I have learned a lot about myself and what I want to do and accomplish in life. When I started, I thought I had things figured out but I was very wrong. I spent two years in the wrong major, but I changed and have been successful ever since. Through experience in and out of the classroom I have figured out what direction I want to go in life.

Nicole

I would tell myself that college is definitely a different experience. Even though it's different, don't goof off and don't think that because you won't get in trouble for going to class, that it's okay. Go to class stay serious and focused but still have fun. And don't be shy, be ready to meet new people and make new friends or else you will not be able to enjoy your college experience.

Mary

The best advice I could give myself is follow what you truely want to do even if it is different from what your parents think because it will make you the most happy and successful in life. It will also keep you motivated to stay in school and you will truely enjoy your college courses. Plus its never to late and your never to old to do what you love! So just go for it!

Elizabeth

I would tell myself how much things i can do with my life, I have everything to succeed and I could not let any struggles get in the way of my education. I would tell myself to not think College was easy but something that is hard to get is worth fighting for. I would tell myself that it is worth leaving your entire life behind, leaving your home town, your family to fight for your education. I would tell myself that it is worth studying for hours because getting the high grade you deserve at the end is so satisfying. I would tell myself that holding on to my dream of making my family proud and someday come back to the town that saw me grow up, coming back with a degree certificate in my hands would be one of the best gifts of life.

Angela

Dear me as a high school senior, I remember the last week of High School and all the fun activities. Going to Knotts with the entire class, having lunch in the park, the awards ceremony, and of course the final graduation day. It felt like the best time of my life. I was all wrapped up in the fun. Then it contunued through the entire summer, nothing but fun in the sun. I thought I knew what to expect and how the college life was going to be but boy did it catch me by surprise. Next thing I knew school was starting and I was thrown into a knew world of leanring. I have always been a great student so I adjusted pretty well, however what they don't prepare you for in high school is how independent you have to be and how you are left to figure out obstacles on your own. Everything you do from that point on is based on your own choices, goals and responsibilities. If you don't stay on track you will veer off quite quickly. So my advice is don't expect anyone to be there to hold your hand.

Jillayne

Walking on to the vast college campus in comparison to my previous experience of a high school atmosphere, where everybody knows everybody, and I, the former senior, dominated the school, clasped by bookbag as I nervously walked through this foreign campus-not knowing a single soul, feeling as an outsider, and unaware of the challenges. Fortunately, I eventually found my niche and became comfortable with what was expected of me. You have already been told to pay attention in lectures and keep up with the readings, but in order to successfully transition from the high school mind-set to a college one, openmindedness is the key, along with humbleness. If uncertainty crosses the mind at any point regarding either academics or just getting by, ask. There are plenty to ask for assistance who are more than willing to help you get through, whether it is an individual who works in your area of study or a fellow classmate. To accompany that advice, initiate conversation, otherwise, college will be a lonely place for you, because much like yourself, people of your same age group are having similar experiences and sensations.

Janelle

As a high school student I was very irresponsible. I constanty blew off class and rarely studied. I barely got by and was very close to not graduating. I believe this is because I had little interest in the subjects and required classes. If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to find a way to connect every subject to something that interests me. I would tell myself that science helps to understand how life works and how all things are connected on a biological level. I would tell myself that English/Reading will help to open my eyes to the different opinions and experiences of people throughout the world. I would tell myself that a basic understanding of math will incorporate itself into every aspect of my life, no matter what it is. I would conclude by letting myself know that a well rounded education will help me prevail above the competition no matter what career I choose. As a high school artist, I was not concerned with general eduation, but now I am able to incorporate every aspect of my education into future as an artist.

Larry

If I could go back in time I would advise myself to do three things: First, I would suggest a different college. I had always wanted to be a studio musician, and a college located closer to Burbank would have been a better choice. This move would have encouraged me to live on campus and make connections with other students. Second, I would suggest completing a double major. I was always interested in physics & chemistry. Completing a science degree along with a music degree would have provided me a path to a successful job while I waited for the necessary breaks in the music industry. Finally, I would recommend making connections with students and teachers. Having a support network can help when you find yourself struggling in your career.

Melanie

Knowing what I know now, my advice to you Melanie Ocampo is to recognize what your weaknesses are while attending high school. For example, if one of your weakness was always being late to your first period class, don't automatically assume that because its college, professors will be a little more lenient on you. When in fact, most instructors won't even let you threw the door to sit in class because you were a minute tardy. Also, another advice that i would strongly advise is don't fall behind in anything you do in class. It is very important to always attend school, missing even one day can hurt your learning process in a single class. For example, I remember my first day in college, my English teacher handed us a form describing how missing one or two days of class can drop our letter grade by one. This not only woke me up that morning, but it also made me realize that this was not a joke. Overall, college is going to be challenging but if you work hard and stay discipline you'll be nothing but successful.

Lauren

If I were given the chance to go back to talk to myself in High School I would tell myself to enjoy more of what college has to offer. Attend sports events, parties. Study hard and remember it is going to be the best years of your life.

Christine

If I could go back in time and give advice to myself as a high school senior, I would tell me self three things. One being to have a better outlook on career opportunities and to not take my time in deciding what I want to do. Two, to never drop or fail a class and, finally, I would tell myself to never move in with a "signigicant other". This retrospection seems to carry one theme, that is, dont do anything that will slow you down. In my college career, I have taken longer than the average person to complete my education; I took too long out of high school to figure out what I wanted to do career wise. I also dropped many classes in junior college, and typically only ended up with 9 units a semester. If I had taken a full load each semester I wouldn't have spent seven semesters in junior college. I also made the mistake of moving-in and cohabitating with my "significant other", who was not in college and did not hold the same collegiet values as I did, and become my utmost distraction for that point in life.

Silvia

If I could go back and talk to myself, I would first ask myself "are you happy with your life right now and the decisions you have made so far?" Then once my young self answers, I would tell myself about the obstacles one experiences during college life and I would tell myself to keep an open mind and be strong once I come upon an obstacle. Another thing I would ask myself is "what major I would want to pursue?" Then I would say, "okay, go with it and remember you can always change your major." I basically wouldn't tell my actual major because in order for my younger self to find herself, I cannot just say "oh, go major in psychology, that's basically what you will be majoring."

samantha

There is a whole new world beyond high school. You may come from a small town, but depending on what college you choose, the resources and opportunities are endless. If you have big dreams go for it, because even though it may seem scary, it's also incredibily rewarding.Going from high school to college is a huge eye-opener. When you step foot on your college it's like starting high school all over again, but this time it's a million times better! There are hundreds of students, a huge campus, and no one cares about popularity or gossip. It is the stepping stone into becoming an adult and along with it is new found freedom. You are now responsible for all your work, yourself, and what matters to you. It's important to ake the college experience day by day. Some days it can be over-whelming, you may want to cry, and you may get homesick, but that's ok because everyday won't be like that. Other days will be wonderful! You will love school, meet great friends, learn a lot, and embrace the experience.

Scott

If I could go back in time and talk to myself, I would tell myself to have the most of fun while it last. Most of the people I saw that year will probably be forgotten in my memories. College is fun, but it also determines the future of oneself. I have a goal, and my goal is to be very successful in the future, yet be able to have fun and not a work-a-holic. If I can go back in time and tell myself one thing, that would be to have fun and never regret it.

Jessica

If I could go back in time and give myself advice about college I would say, "just be yourself." So much of my first year and a half has been spent trying to impress and please others, my teachers, my friends, other students, and my family. I have wasted so much time trying to be somebody else when all I ever really needed to be was me. I have found that is the only way to be truley happy. I would also tell myself to as Rascall Flatts says," never look back but never forget" everyone I left behind in my hometown, those relationships are just as important and the new ones I am looking for. I would tell myself college is important but there is life after college so do not dwell on the negative experiences but learn from them and move on because tomorrow there will be a positive one. And finally I would tell myself to remember to buy toilet paper. I know that growing up at home it seems to magically appear in the bathroom but once you move out I guess the magic stops and then you are stuck....literally.

Katherine

I would tell myself to get financial aid instead of working full time, this would help me to finish school faster.

Esmeralda

College is not all monsters and goblins like some people put it as... it is also not rainbows and roses like others say. College is... indescribable. It is not easy but, it is also not difficult. College puts YOU in charge. On your first day of school there will be people you are not used to seeing, and if you are part of the majority you will notice that in just one class you will quickly become a minority. Make sure you do your homework and make lots of friends believe me you will need them.

Robin

The first thing I would tell myself would be to breathe. The next thing I would tell myself would not to be afriad of failure or hearing the word no. Hearing either of those two things will not be the end of the world. I would say apply for everything that you are interested in for schools or scholarships. I would also tell msyelf to get involved in things on campus. Finding something that you are interested in outside of academics helps the semester go faster and it might help you decided on a major if you haven't. Make sure you have two sets of friends those that know when it is time to study and those that encourage you to kick back when needed. Find a mentor and stick to them like glue ask questions and accept their advice. Finally have fun this experience comes all only once in your life!

Kathryn

Were I able to go back in time to talk to my younger self, I would give myself a warning. There are so many traps and so many dangers lurking in the freedom that college has to offer. Find a good group of friends who respect you and treat you as you deserve to be treated. It is so important to choose your friends wisely, as they will have such an impact on the choices you make. Remember that your first priority needs to be your education, not the weekend. Be good to people, and they will return the favor. You know the difference between right and wrong, so do the right thing and you will be rewarded. It is so important for you to know how precious life is, and to value it. Above all, remember to not take yourself too seriously.

April

As a senior in high school I was well rounded, I played sports, recieved a perfect grade point average and was in a few clubs. I thought that I was well prepared to go to college and start playing College soccer. I was right in some ways and wrong in others. I had no problem fitting right in. That was until I had to quit playing the sport I love because of an injured knee and financial problems. On top of that, my parents decided to get a divorce and without the typical routine of school and soccer that I had always known, I felt alone and a failure. If I could go back to highschool and tell myself one thing it would be to never give up hope and to never stop trying. I probably would have laughed since I had never quit anything and I never gave up. I've learned that things can change in an instant and that I have to adjust quickly in life to keep up and even if I stubble occasionally I can always get back and try again. I'm never a failure until I chose to stay down and stop fighting.

Rebecca

If I could go back in time some advice that I would give to myself would be to not focus so much on how hard college is going to be. In my opinion starting college has been as hard as moving up from any grade level, its always a little bit harder. One thing I wish I knew when i was a high school senior was how important it was to stay organized and manage your time because teachers do not remind you that things are do or even tell you that you have an assignment your supposed to follow the syllaubus or online website. So if you are not on top of your school work things can pile up and you are left scrambling at the last minute or you miss the deadline all together. In short don't stress about how hard it is going to be because you can handle it, but practice being organized and making deadlines for yourself so that work doesn't pile up.

Pauline-Marie

Everyone dreads the Freshman 15. If I could give myself one piece of advice, it would be to lay off the Ramen Noodles and Monter Energy Drinks as much as possible and do as much exercise as you can. Even if it means taking the stairs instead of the elevator to get to class, at least it is better than not moving around at all. Joining a team sport would also be another piece of advice since the it's fun and it could keep you physically fit. It is better to have the Freshman 5 than the 15.

Chanelle

Many high school senoirs have their theories and their expectations for the college life. Some may assume it is one big, fun party. Others think it is not for them because they rather be working. Others feel it might be to strict or difficult. Well no matter what the furture might hold it is up to the student to be fully prepared. If I was to go back in time to give advice to me as a senior I would. I would mainly adivse to not only keep working harder and do my best, but consider taking some summer college courses. I thought as a senoir although I did not take AP courses in my high school years I would be prepared for college because I had a 3.2 GPA. Unfortunately, even if I had taken AP courses it wouldn't have helped me. It's known that a large percentage of AP students struggle just the same. To succed in college you must take the extra step and further your education. A even larger amount of students enroll in remedial courses. So I would adivce myself to take the extra step and enroll in summer credited college courses.

Blanca

As a high school senior I was always scared to make my transition to college; I would get very nervous because I didn't know what to expect. Almost every high school teacher made college a challenge, therefore I would doubt college was for me. Now that I half way done with college I realize how wrong every one in high school was about college life. Now that I know how the college life is I would advice myself to not believe what everyone says about college. The college life is a lot more simple than high school, it is difficult at some points but the professors are a lot more comprehensive and acessible than what they are made seem to be.

BRITTANI

If I could go back in time to my senior year of high school , and give myself advice about college life and the transition into it, I would say ?Stay in school! You only got one more year and if you do, it would be a lot easier than if you dropped out and got your GED. College is not all fun and games, its hard work, and you have to be determent to get your school work done, long hours and hard work u can get a head in life and not worry about money, a job, or anything.?

Kristina

If I were able to go back in highschool and prepare myself for college, I would tell myself to take the oppourtunity when it arises. Rather than waiting due to lack of funding because it will only get worse. You will have less problems right out of highschool than 5 years down the road. So take the chance, find the oppourtunity and you can do anything that you can put your mind to, no matter what the circumstances may be. Apply for scholarships, check out loans do what you can to get that degree now, don't wait.

Victoria

I would tell my self this experience and decision is the starting point of your new adult life. Take into consideration what you can handle and what you can't. One of the most important things I would say is to be brave, take a chance, for the first time in your life this is the first decision that you should make that is all about you..

Stephanie

As a high school senior, I felt like I was on top of the world. I really believed I was prepared to handle anything and that every obstacle I faced could be easily solved. With two years of college under my belt, I can definitely say life throws you curveballs you will not expect, and the solution is not always given to you on a silver platter. If I could go back in time to my senior year and give myself advice about college, the first thing I would say would be not to forget the primary purpose of college; to learn. College is an experience that will only come once in a lifetime and what I learn in college will always stay with me; the experiences in college and the people I meet are going to stay with me for the rest of my life. It's important to have fun, but don't forget that learning, that the future, is the reason college exists. One can learn forever, so keep an open mind, always. Like Aeschylus once said, ""Learning is ever in the freshness of its youth, even for the old."

rhoadell

I would tell myself to apply to as many schools as possible and to be a Music Performance Major.

alexis

knowing what i know now about college and going back to being a high school senior, i would advise myself to be serious about the choices i make, be dilligent, handle my business first and then pleasure second, have a support system, and to take my time. being sure of the choices you make saves alot of time and energy that might end up going into something else that is uncertain, and that is the last thing you want to do. examples could be moving to a certain location for eduacation, a particular major, etc. being dillgent about your work is very beneficial to you and others around you. it also makes you a better person, and creates gfreat relationships between your professors and others students. handling your business first is always going to be more important than having fun first. you will always have time to enjoy life. plus, a huge load of stress is taken off of you once you have taken care of all the difficult things going on academicallly. you definitely cannot do school alone, so always have someone there to help. most importantly, dont rush yourself.. youre more satisfied that way.

Brian

My seniors believe that college is not very different from high school, but the are wrong. If i was a senior again, i would advse myself to be more organized, learn how to use my time wisely, and always be on top of dates. College is completely different from high school because the college student himself has to alert of the responsibilities he or she has. Professors give you dates and that is it, no more reminders and no more spoon feeding. All the responsibility falls on the students hands and if you do not have these important dates down, it can cost you in the future. Always be organized with dates and paperwork. Also I would tell myself to use my time wisely because lots of paper work can stack up if people do not use their time wisely. College life becomes completely independent and your own future is in your own hands, make the best of it.

Yvonne

If I could go back in time and offer myself advice when I was a senior I would definitely say good job to myself for all the hard work, stay true to myself and go find scholarships!!! I was always very active in school. I was the ASB President and in multiple clubs and sports with an awesome gpa. I was in the top 5{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c}ile for high grade point average. I was lucky to have recieved a few scholarships from my high school, but I did not take the personal responsibility to find scholarships through the community and online. My senior year brought mulitple challenges to me outside of school and I let that affect my desire to pursue what was best for me. I let relationship (friends, boyfriend, and family) drama get in my way from achieving goals I had set for myself for a long time. My confidence and motivation my senior year was crushed...and after all my hard work from elementary to junior high to high school just went down the drain and I let it. These obstacles prevented me from pursing to look for scholarships and achieve what I deserved.

Pamela

I had the opportunity to take classes at the junior college in my community for transferable units to various universities as a senior in highschool. I have always struggled with math and intended to take math courses but did not, instead I enroll in art and biology class. At California State University, Fullerton, I spent an entire year on remedial math courses. If I had known what I know now I would have taken math courses so I would've been able to start college at a college level math and save me a year of school. I also have a short attention span and attending a school with a quarter system would've been more beneficial towards my learning style; I knew that in highschool but listening to the advice of those around me I chose a college on a semester system. Now, I would've told myself to be brave and follow my first mind.

Reanna

In order to enjoy and participate in college life, it is important to break out of your shell and get involved in your campus. The first day is going to be scary and exciting at the same. For this reason, it may be more comforting to sit in the back if the class and pretend to be invisible, but this will only hurt you. Don't be afraid to talk to the people around you. Strike up conversations. Most importantly, get invloved. There are so many clubs to join. Try the intramural sports offered, sign up for yoga classes at the gym, or connect with volunteer groups on campus. Also, break out of your comfort zone and sign up for a study abroad program. One of the best ways to experience college to its greatest potential is to live on campus. You'll meet so many people and develop long-term friendships. The sooner you start making new friends and connections, the sooner you'll be having the time of your life. Remember, school is your number one priority though. So maintain good grades and keep up your GPA, becuase this will bring about many great opportunities.

Janet

The first advice I would give to myself as a high school senior is to save up money for college expenses. Instead of finding the coolest shoes, save the money for books. Books are expensive and unless you get free money from scholarships, you need to save up money. The second advice is figure out if you want to dorm or commute. Saving money is great, but a college experience comes only once in a lifetime. Think wisely. Next, I would tell myself to visit a counselor about my school schedule. Counselors in college can make a huge difference when choosing classes. They will make sure you are taking the correct classes depending on your major and finishing the General Education classes that are required to graduate from a four year university. Not only do counselors help keep track on classes, but also help save money in the long run. They make sure you avoid taking a class that is uncessary. Saving time and money is very important during these four years of education. The last advice I would give myself is to have fun and enjoy the four best years of your life!

Juliana

I would tell myself to relax because my school has all the resources that I need to succeed. I would also tell myself to get not be scare to get involved in school or to meet new people. I would advice myself to see an academic advisor as soon as possible in order to be sure that I would be going on the right path in order to complete my academic goals. Nevertheless I would encourage myself to apply for more scholarships.

Megan

I am currently taking a gap year, doing volunteer work for schools, orphanages, churches, and medical clinics in Mexico, Philippines, and Ghana. If I were to go back in time, I'd tell myself not to worry about finances or traveling alone, but to trust in God and enjoy my time as a senior. Life is a journey; whether one is in Mexico or attending Mankato State University, one must learn to make new friends while keeping the old, accept change, and put all your effort into the tasks at hand--staying focused and driven.

Vienna

Vienna, now that you are in your senior year please be serious about the school you will choose. Honestly think about the cost of going to different schools and also think about all the small things that cost money. Start saving early for a car because you will be in school for a long time, and life is no fun with out a car. To go the 25 miles to school takes two hours on the bus. Gas for a sedan costs about $120 every two weeks. Learn to manage money well. Invest in a desk and also find a quiet place where you can study well and focus without being bothered. Learn how to turn off your cell phone and not have anxiety for 2 hours. Realize that you need to be yourself in order to be liked amongst many people, and when you are yourself life is more happy and a little easier. Do not stop dreaming and keep on volunteering. Make your resume as good as possible because you will eventually need a good job. Manage your time with friends, studying, and working well because it can sometimes be a little overwhelming. Love yourself.

Chelsea

If I could go back in time and speak with myself as a high school senior I would enlighten her about the wonderful world of junior college. Although going into a four year university right after high school sounds more prestigious, there is no shame in obtaining all your general education at a two year college before transferring. Having no idea what to major in, I wasted a lot of money on units that do not go towards my current degree in Human Services. If I had first gone to a junior college I could have experimented with different classes to discover what direction I wanted to take my life at a much cheaper cost. During my senior year of high school I remember feeling overwhelmed at times trying to obtain the idolized college experience. I wish I could go back and tell myself that I felt such unnecessary pressure, and that the first few years of college are meant to be years of discovery; not everyone knows their career at age 18. If only little senior me knew everything I knew now then perhaps current and past stressors of college could have been avoided.

Ana

I really do wish I could go back to senior year of high school and give myself advice about college. I think i would have been more prepared for college life. One of the things i would tell myself would be to ask questions, and not to be emberrassed of asking. Every one has questions and that i should not fell dumb for asking. I would emphazise to be resposible and prepared because in college nothing is handed to you like in high school, not even a paper clip. To be ready for any inconvenience. The most important piece of advice would be not to underestimate myself becauseI am capable of doing more than i give myself credit for. Not to settle for average, because I can do better than average. I would tell myself not to be afraid of socializing, of trying new things. Simple to understand that college is a new and exciting step in my life and to make sure i enjoy it , but at the same time not forget why I am there.

Jacqueline

If I could go back in time and tell my high school senior self advice knowing what i know now the number one thing I would tell myself is WORK! This is one word that I should have done as a High School senior. Get a job and start working. Look into scholarships and dont assume that your parents are going to pay for everything! Work hard in your studies take pride in your work and dont let your senior year go to waste. College is not going to be any easier so continue constant villagence and keep pushing through your work. Lastly never ever let anyone tell you you have to know what you want to do in life. More than likely you will change your major and that is okay!

Natalie

Looking back into the hourglass called life, there is one main point I would instill in my high-school-senior self: be clear about what you are on this planet to accomplish. In retrospect, much of what I thought was important at 18, like social status and appearance, had nothing to do with reality or serving the greater good of humanity. If I could go back and give counsel to my younger self, I would tell her to focus on using education as a tool to empower herself as a woman. I would tell her to talk to her counselers as often as possible to make sure she was on track for graduation. I would tell her to explore many avenues and career options to find what made her passionate and excited to learn and seek knowledge. If I could flip back the clock and transition once more from the world of childhood dreams into the adult world of responsible action, I would tell myself to make every moment, every assignment, and every class valuable, imporant, and cherished.

Tasha

If i could go back in time and tell myself a little advice i would tell myself to work more at getting scholarships and do more volunteer work. The reason that these two topics are the most important is because 1. i am paying for school on my own and it is really hard to come up with the money for school and other school related expenses and 2. volunteer work is really important in college, both in getting scholarships and jobs. I belive that those two things would be the only topics to discuss with the "past me" because they are the only transitions that i have been struggling with, all of the other transitions helped me mature and become more independent.

Diane

If I could give myself advice I would start out by saying that even though college is a time to grow an have fun, its also something that needs to be taken seriously. I would stress the need to have a balance between a social life and an education. I would make sure to let myself know that it's not ok to drop classes because I dont feel like writing a research paper or posting discussion questions. I would make it clear that a sunny day or being hung over from the night before isn't an ok reason to skip school. Most importantly, I would tell myself that fear isn't a valid excuse for, ditching the SATs, "missing" my application dead lines and settleing for a three year stay at a community college; because no matter what any one says college is for you and you can do it.

Mogan

I would make sure I became more involved in my high school and the extracurricular activity?s they had to offer. I would also become more involved in the community and doing more volunteer work. I think those things would better prepare me for college and help me discover faster what it is I want to be when I grow up. High school was more of a selfish time, so I would tell myself to study more and hold onto the important relationships and goals I have for myself. College requires a balance of education, relationships, and hard work to be successful. It would have been nice to grow more in these areas before I started college.

Charitie

As a high school senior i was ready to get out. I tried as hard as i could but knew that i could skim my classes without worrying about if i was going to graduate or not. If i could i would tell myself to actually pay attention to what people told me about college because it turns out they were right, its not like high school. you cannot merely go to class and pass. you have to put in the effort the studying. if you study in high school and develop good habits then, chances are youre going to take them with you to college and have a much greater success. But also dont forget to have fun because its your last year before adulthood, take advantage of it.