Columbia College Chicago Top Questions

I would tell myself to take the ACT as many times as possible and to take it easy. I was involved in a lot of extracurriculars activities during the critical period of applying to colleges. I was strugglign to do homework, college applications, scholarship applications and extra that I stressed myself out. I would tell my high school self to relax and it is ok to take a break for some things for a while to get oher things done.

I would tell myself to apply for as many scholarships as I can. I am mostly happy with every other decision I made. I started at community college to save money, and then went to my dream school, Columbia.

When I was in high school I always knew that music and food were what I wanted to go into. It was my life. I slacked off in high school because all I wanted to achieve was the music industry. I pushed food out and stuck with music. Part of me semi regreted it. Alas, I had other passions in mind but always over looked them. I went to Columbia College in hopes of getting my degree in Music Business and have a focus in Rock/Metal music. Over the past few years Professors have told me that rock music is dead. I took that too much to heart. So do what you always want to do which was food and follow your passions.

If I could go back and talk to my high school senior self, I would give two pieces of advice. First, I would tell myself that going to community college for my freshman year will be beneficial for multiple reasons, such as saving on tuition and maturing as a student. The financial aspect of junior college was a huge benefit because I am currently applying for a study abroad opportunity made possible by the the tuition I saved. Junior college also allowed me to mature as a student and develop a determination to achieve the goals and aspirations I have for my life. Secondly, I would encourage myself to start making more films in an attempt to hone my skills and become a better storyteller. Filmmaking has always been my passion so the advice would not fall on deaf ears. I would proceed to convey that despite the lack of resources necessary to make quality short films, the experience is all relative. In conculsion, I would've utilized this advice because it would have quelled the feelings of doubt I had surrounding my future and prepared me for the obstacles yet to come.

If I could go back and tell my high school self one thing, it wold be "try new things." When I was in high school, I was rather shy and didn't like doing things out of my comfort zone or talking to people I didn't know. This lack of trying new things is my biggest regret looking back at my high school years. Given the chance to redo high school, I would join as many groups and clubs as possible, and get to know as many people as possible. Furthermore, I would tell my high school self to put 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} into all they do. In high school, particualy in my senior year, I didn't put as much effort as possible into my school work. I usually did what was expected and nothing more. Looking back, I see that I missed a lot of oppritunities to go further in school by doing the bare minimun, instead of doing the best I could. Overall, I would tell my high school self to think more about the future, and not just think about having fun.

If I could go back to my senior year in high school, I would tell myself to become more involved in my school activities. Now that I am in college, it has truly helped me find myself and to embrace the talents that I have. Every opportunity that I have, I go for it regardless of my circumstances because I'll never know where it can take me if I don't try. I've also learned that it's not always what you know but who you know and the more I network, the more beneficial it will be for me, especially for the industry that I am pursuing. I would implement networking and being apart of organizations or school-related activies if I could go back to my senior year in high school.

Dear Rhiannon, Ok I know you will make it to Columbia. You are doing really good. You need to get a little more pushy with Mr. Brown because he hasn't helped you much at all. You will be struggling to pay for school and know nothing about scholarships, FASFA, or even how to apply. Sit down with him and tell him, look Mr. Brown either help me or I am going to fire you as my councilor and find someone else who will help me and don't take any crap. Get a job before this summer. All the money you give Debbie and Alan, don't. That is money you will need later. Don't listen to your brother and let him talk you into buying him stupid stuff, and don't get a Chromebook or a Lenovo try to go for an Apple computer. The Lenovo will bankrupt you and the Chromebook is just for research. Don't help Julian out because he will never pay you back. Your going to have to put up with some horrible situations but keep your head up. Your stronger and will overcome them. Good Luck kiddo. Sincerely, Rhiannon Martinez

Hey me; avoid buying food everyday. Save your eat-out days for late nights and hanging out with friends. Also be a little more vocal. Unlike high-school, no one will judge you for being weird. Also set aside money for yourself in case you need something; like shoes or clothes. Don't buy all your school supplies at once and take the bus, it's cheaper. Also sign up for scholarships like crazy and live on campus or find an apartment (it sounds more expensive but trust me it evens it's self out). Oh and find a second part-time job and you'll get an email about being a canidate for some new module set-up at your school; DON"T ACCEPT, you end up have to go a whole semester broke and annoying your parents for money. Just be like the rest of the college students, your drawing will improve. Ok that's about it. Good luck.

Look Sarah, you need to open up. Extracurricular activities become so important when it comes to scholarship applications, and being shy shouldn't be the anchor that holds anyone back. I know not everyone likes you, and I know it's trying on your patience. Keep up with clubs, join a team. Make yourself count, and make yourself a shining star. Polish who you are. College is a place to be anyone you want. You're walking into a world where, even after four years of being with the same people, you will still remain unknown to some. Be open, be free. Don't hide behind your weight, clothes, hairstyle, anything that makes you uncomfortable now. Be who you know you are inside. Then, when you're finished, GET ON THOSE SCHOLARSHIPS! Apply for them, build yourself up, make a resume, get a job! Make friends, make connections, networking is key. Don't be intimidated by people. Everyone starts somewhere, and they're just as scared as you. Don't let the opinions of some reflect on who you are to your soulmates in the future. You will succeed, so don't take too long testing the water. Jump in.

If I could go back in time to my highschool self, I would tell her that her grades are not the end all be all. It doesn't matter that she failed that test/ class, so she can breathe. She'll be fine. Things get so much easier in college because you're learning about things that interest you. And the teachers are so much more invested. And look! She's on the dean's list now (take that, bad highschool grades)! I would also tell her to stop ignoring her problems. Confrontation is not always a bad thing. Sometimes you just need to talk to your teacher and ask for an extension. The same goes for classmates. If someone in a group isn't pulling their weight, talk to them! Just remember to be courteous while doing so. One more piece of advice: Actually do your homework! Get off the internet!

If I could go back and plant any seed of knowledge into my high school senior self, it would be this: DO NOT PROCRASTINATE. I have long been a chronic procrastinator, it runs in the family. It has never been an issue for me since I do get my work done and I do do good work; however, there is a certain level of stress involved with procrastination. If it becomes an issue then your stress levels are going to go up and up and up until there is nowhere else to go. I would tell myself to plan ahead. If you know you have a project due in three weeks then get a little done every week. It is a simple idea that I think a lot of students could benefit from. I would also tell my past self to be more open. In college you can become a completely different person. The possibilities are endless. If there is an opportunity to try something new then you need to take it. Seize the opportunity. Go see the school plays. Go watch the hip-hop dance competition. The people you meet might become a huge part of your life.

Although your high school career had ended, your college career had just begun. Remember that college will be a lot better than high school because the students at college are more mature, friendly, and took their effort and pride into the work they do to reach the goals they dreamed of. They will be your bestest friends if you were to meet them. I would advise going to a community college that offers transfer credits to the college you wanted to go to. It will be fininically and acamedically wise because you can take care of the general education classes and take the fun classes later, and the tutiton at a community college is very reasonable and be the less burden on student loans. Now, remember that having a college degree and education doesn't guaratee you a great job or career, you still have to make more hard work and persist through the hardships, but I know that you are smart, intelligent, wise, educated, and you can do anything as long you believe in yourself.

My most important piece of advice would be to trust yourself. Don't ever second guess yourself. Every single class you thought you wouldn't be able to handle, you will be. Don't let the "Advanced Placement" and "Dual Credit" descriptions make you uneasy because you will ace each and every one of those classes. Some of the people around you will try and get you to relax and not worry about school so much, but don't listen to them. If you want to succeed, keep doing what you have been doing since your first day of school. Just don't forget to have some room for friends and famiy, or the stress will get to be too much. Big changes will be coming and it will seem absolutely daunting, but you're strong enough and smart enough to get through these obstacles. Surround yourself with the right kind of support and keep your head up high. The only one who can get you to where you want to be is you. It's okay to be scared as long as you don't let your fears prohibit you from flourishing.

If I could go back in time I would tell and remind myself not to go to community college first go ahead and explore the Chicagoland area and be confident. The only reason why I did go to community college first was because I would be able to work and get my education at the same time , but I let my axciety get the best of me and wanted to please my parents by sticking with my original plan going to community college for two years then tranfering to SIU Carbondale where my mom graduated from. I would also remind myself to stay focused and to not care what everyone else thought.

My advice would be to stay away from procrastination as it can very quckly become a habit and prevent you from performing to your full potential. Because of the heavier workload in college, it is important to spread out study time and establish a paced learning method. It is also important to balance your life and get the total college experience. Whether working a part time job, volunteering on campus, or involving yourself in clubs, becoming active in your college community is a crucial part of life on campus. Some of the most helpful resources you will find are right on campus. Do not be afraid to talk to your professors and ask for help on assignments. Upper classmen who have already experienced life on campus may help to deter you from making the mistakes they made. They can offer advice and encouragement as you transition from high school to college. Finally, enjoy your time as a high school senior because senior year is gone in the blink of an eye and you will never experience anything quite like high school again.

Always read your syallabus. Don't just rad it in the beginning of the semester and expect your teachers to remind you what's due. You have to rely on yourself for that. Start studying. I know that you passed K through 12 pretty flawlessly without studying a single night but this is where that ends. You will need to study because there is so much more expected of you. On that note, do the required reading. Your classes won't go over it as much in college and you will fail tests if you do not read. Procrastination will get you nowhere. The essays are going to require a lot more research than you're used to doing and trying to do it all in a couple hours is not going to be easy and just cause unnesscessary stress. Take the assignments slowly. Go to class. You will fail a class you deserve an A in if you don't attend. There is a lot more to life than being loved and in a relationship. Don't stay wiht someone because you think no one else will love you. End it fast and move on with your life.

If I could talk to my high school senior self, I would tell him that everyone who told you that highschool is the best time of your life, is a liar. College life is so much more satisfying. Life during college actually requires your attention. During college, the choices are your own. So if you make a mistake, its okay. You are just learning how to make choices that suit your way of doing things. I would also advice myself to not stress over social problems in high school. I would tell myself that once graduation comes, none of the problems I had would matter, so just focus on yourself and to let everything else dissapear because once you graduate your own acedemic repuation is all that will matter. Not what everyone else had to say about you.

Assuming that I were able to go back in time and advise my high school self about college, I would tell myself to prepare more so financially for what is to come. College, as I have learned, is very easy to manage as long as you stay on top of your work. By being at a school such as Columbia, it is easy to avoid parties and what not due to it being a dry campus. However, by living in the city, saving money, paying for college, and buying necessities can sometimes be a challenge. The transition from high school to college, for a student such as myself, happens to be very smooth and simple. However, i'd advise my younger self to save money, gather as many scholarships as possible, and use each minute wisely for networking as well as for projects once I begin school.

If I could go back in time the advice I would give myself wouldve been, going off to school after high school. I wish I never took any time off to work or rest. I am now 22 about to enroll in the spring semester to Columbia on campus, I am very excited and nervous at the same time! I decided to stop with the excuses and just go. I realize not having an education or any degree has been very crucial financial wise. I am desperate to do better learn, educate myself , and become something great!

I would tell myself: Don’t to stress out too much and enjoy your time as a freshman. It will go by so quickly and you’ll be a junior before you know it. I know things will get rough because you’re in a new city, but you’re strong enough to get through it. Make sure you eat healthy and stay in shape like you’re used to. Not having tennis and guard each year is going to slow you down a little, but please do not worry if you gain weight. It’s not the end of the world. You are a young and talented writer. Don’t sell yourself short. Challenge your skills and make sure you are doing work you will be proud of yourself for doing. You might want to keep a few of your essays for a portfolio in the future. Please gain the confidence to step out of your comfort zone and go with your gut sometimes. Don’t try to fit in with everyone around you. Find people that fit in with you. All in all, just don’t give up on yourself. I promise you’ll make it out alive.

I was never sure of myself throughout highschool, up until the end of my senior year, or so I thought. Lately I've realized the benifits outside a small town. "Don't try to be the person that everyone talks to, be the person that associates with everyone based purely on an interest to learn and connect. There is no shame in being yourself, and trying to be someone else will only turn that 3.0 into a 1.6. Life can be a little fogged when you are surrounded by stong physiques and strung up egos. Watch a youtube video about the universe, find someone else who realizes how self centered everyone else is acting. Make a friend that isn't too popular. Don't sleep around, because later you will realize how immature those kinds of things are. Never let anyone tell you they are better than you; show them that you are the better one by replying with kind words and an open mind. When you get home, dont go smoke weed with your 'friends', help your mom around the house, it will put a little more meat on those bones. Fear is but an illusion friend."

Being an older student trying to get my first Bachelors, I tell myself to stick it out the first time I started attending college. I would have made sure I understood that finishing with good grades was going to be hugely important later in life. I would have made sure to understand to take full advantage of the grants and scholarships offered. To make sure I understood the importance of gaining a higher education and how much it would have helped me acquire the jobs I wanted instead of settling all the time with what was offered. Finishing in my twenties would have been more important for what I want to do now later in my life. I wouldn't feel like I am playing catch up with my life.

Ambition is your best friend and fear of failure is only the wall that separates those that make it, from those that didn't want it badly enough. If you plan on making it, especially in an artistic field, you have to be ambitious. Take high risks with your work. Take on big projects that push the limits of your patience and skill every time you start something new because that's the kind of work that will help you self actualize and the kind of work horse employers look for. Take every opportunity you can, because experience is hard to come by and greatly valued. Make connections with as many talented, ambitious people you know and work with them so that you benefit from their knowledge and skills. Don't let fear cause you not to try. Do the things that you are afraid of doing, within reason. The fear lets you know that what you're doing is worth your time and effort and will only fuel your passion to get the job done right. Find as many ways to express yourself as possible and hold on to the people that support you. They are your greatest comfort.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to keep on working hard and although it might be difficult it will make you a better person and prepare you better for college. As a high school senior I was taking an AP class as well as two others at my high school. I was also enrolled in a jump start program at my community college so I was taking two college classes a semester, as well as working at my part-time job. I would give myself encouragment and say that those credits you are getting are going to put you ahead of the normal student and you will be able to reach your goal of getting to UMCP faster. Also that money that you are saving is going to help you in the long run when paying for college classes later on. If I could go back and talk to myself I wouldn't tell myself to change anything because I knew that although it was hard, I was doing the right thing and I knew I would thank myself later for it.

I would tell myself to join the Air National Guard at age 18 instead of immediately going to college, instead of joining the Guard at age 24. Joining the Guard taught me discipline and responsibility that I sorely needed, as well as helping me gain financial independence from my parents. Having that discipline and financial freedom would allow me to pursue my passions and study the major of my choice, rather than allowing my parents to choose a career for me.

Think about the kind of person you want to be and what you are going to stand for before you get there. Go to college knowing what you believe, but with an open mind, willing to think about how you are living and what you are learning. Find a community of people…In high school I had friends who I knew for 13 years, and in college I needed them most and they were no longer around. Now I'm expected to make long lasting friendships in 4 years. It's really tough. it's hard to make deep, real friendships. I know a lot of people, but I don't really know them. In high school everyone was from the same place and basically did the same things. You knew everybody. But in college there are people who think and live differently. I never had to interact with people who are different before. You hear all the time that college is going to be the best four years of your life, and when times get tough, you may think something is wrong with you. But it's not. That's just the reality of college life.

Since I have transferred twice so far in my college career, I would love the opportunity to go back in time and tell myself one thing to prevent the hassle of transferring twice. I would tell my high school self in the moment right before I accepted my offer to Bradley University in Peoria IL, not to fear drowning in student loans after graduating. Bradley University was the institution that allotted me the most scholarship money as well as financial assistance, so naturally, I chose to attend Bradley. However, I ended up hating it there because of the social focus on Greek life, which I had no interest in. If I would have been able to tell myself that critical piece of information, I could have attended Columbia College Chicago from the beginning. I could have been on track with my core classes and not wasted a year of my college career. Although, attending Columbia has forced me to take out several thousand dollars in student loans, I know that it will be worth it because I am now able to focus on meeting my career goals and succeeding.

Words for the Younger Me Use that strong perseverance you possess, and overcome all the individuals that make you believe you are not smart enough, or good enough—this is your chance to prove them wrong: Because one of those undermining individuals is standing in front of you at this very moment, and he will dare to say the words—“You can’t do it.” But instead of getting angry, smile with absolute confidence and respond back with the words—“Yes I can.” And as those individuals are laughing and calling you names, don’t let them bring you down with their expendable words, smile once more, and think to yourself : You are all my true motivators and the reason for why I keep my head high; the reason for why I push myself to work harder than I have ever worked before, so that once I reach that finish line I’ll still win—even if I don’t finish first, because if I allow for you to kick me down again—I will always lose. And don’t you dare give up—keep pushing forward, because I promise there is a much bigger—greater life after high school.

If I could go back in time and give myself advice as a high school senior I would tell myself many things. The first thing I would tell myself is that I do NOT want to become an interior designer. Second would be that nothing will go as I planned and third: don't give up when things get difficult. I 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} hated high school and the only reason I did well, was so that I could escape to college. I wanted to be in an artistic environment, to find myself, and to make like-minded friends but none of that happened. To my high school self I would say that all the things I want, have to come from within me. It's better to shape my environment, than to let it shape me.

Sarah, go ahead, sign up for the A.P English Class. It might be a little bit more tough, but I promise it will be worth it. Also, your ACT scores. come one. You can do better. Sit down a few more times, study with friends if you'd like, we both know standardized tests aren't for you, but you can still do better. Remember to still have fun, don't regret a thing, but remember through it all, your grades will matter more than you like to believe. But don't stress it, we both know how smart you are!

First of all, grow your hair out, you have really nice hair in the future. Have some confidence, you have no reason not to love your self for who you are. Think of all the amazing things you have accomplished, if I could tell you the things you will accomplish in the next year, you would only doubt me because I still have no idea how I did what I did. I know you're probably wondering if the pain of mom's death will go away and I'm here to tell you it definitely does not, but it gets easier. The universe has a way of showing you how good you have it. College is different, I know you think you may not be ready, but you are. There will be times when you think about dropping out and becoming a flight stewardess, but that phase will pass. Above all keep your head up, read as much as possible, don’t ever doubt yourself and call your dad and your brothers. No matter how much you fight with them, they’re the best people in your life. Above all keep your humor, it will keep you sane.

You must realize that you cannot please everyone. You must make a choice for yourself. Do not consider it your fault if the other person is discontent with your decision. By all means, please do not choose your college based on another person’s desires; otherwise your potential career will be harmed. When I arrived to Chicago I was greeted with a farewell and ended up alone in a big city. I chose a mediocre school that had my major, but realized only 30 other people were in my same major (in other words they didn’t care for Fine Arts). By making the decision to attend an expensive college, I put my mother in danger as well. I knew we were not the wealthiest of families and placed my mother in a position I wish I never put her in (money wise). Making choices for yourself doesn’t mean you disregard the thoughts of others. Give them the same respect because they have to make the right choices for themselves too. There is always something good that comes from the difficult moments in life. You have a big heart, but pleasing everybody is impossible. Please yourself first.

If I, ever for a moment, were able to advise my high school self of any matter concerning college, with my new found wisdom, I would tell myself simply not to become disheartened. For one thing which eluded me, and impacted above all else, was the fact that some, or in my case many, friends from high school do not last. I would inform her not to become depressed as I did, nor become isolated from the world; for coming out from her shell of fear and shyness is the only means there is to make friends. While, my own depression and fear of rejection hindered my own development , I would not want hers to be the same. I missed out on a variety of opportunities to make connections, because of my fear of not making any at all; I contradicted myself and limited the experiences in which I could have had. While, even after meeting new friends the hurt of the abandonment of the old will hurt. I would hate for her feelings of loneliness and panic to ultimately make her friendless and alone ; for it is an endless paradox which can only be broken by courage.

If I were able to return to the past and converse with my High School senior self, I would advise myself not to follow what other people set out to do; to discover my own way of life and not make the mistakes I ended up commiting. It would allow me for much time and money saved, both at the time and in the future.

I would tell myself not to stress out so much about whether or not I made the right choice. Making new friends is easy and even if you don't like the school you can always transfer. As long as you apply yourself you will be able to make the grades.

If I could, I would tell myself to think more about the cost of school. It is good to be surrounded by passionate people, but it is more important to live within my means. I would also tell myself to think carefully about what I want to do in the future. I would want to make sure that I was aware of all of my options, and not just a few. Where you get your degree is just as important as the degree you are trying to attain, regardelss of what my family says. I would tell myself to learn how to cook, so that I don't half starve once I am out on my own. Finally, I would tell myself to do what I want to do, regardless of the people around me. I would be sure that I understood that choosing a school and a major had more to do with me, and what best suits my learning abilities than what my parents or family want me to do.

“I know moving to Chicago sounds risky, especially to pursue directing, but you cannot wait for circumstances to be perfect or safe before you act. If you do, be prepared to wait a long time,” I said. “What if I get to Chicago, and I can’t keep up with the talent? It’s not as though I’m attending a performing arts high school. I haven’t had any formal training,” high school senior, Kathryn Walters expressed. She sat next to me, the college freshman version of herself. “What if you ignore your passion for theatre? It would be such a waste. I am not telling you to ignore consequences; there will be a few, but be proactive. Going the extra mile is not going the extra mile anymore. It is expected. “You will have trouble keeping up with talent in and out of class (there is a lot of it), but struggling only proves that you are trying and growing your skills as an artist. Be persistent, and stay optimistic; it’s attractive. “Treat Columbia College as you would a job, and perhaps one day you will bring talented artists together to discover life in its fullest onstage.”

Hi there! It’s you from the future. Seriously. I have a few hints for you to get through the next few years. No, I’m not going to give you the lotto numbers, so don’t just skip to the bottom. 1. You have more ability than you give yourself credit for. Try for scholarships, jobs, and awards you don’t think you qualify for, you just may get it. Speak up and don’t worry that you’re not the smartest person in the room, you have interesting ideas to contribute. 2. Blame and self-pity don't get anyone anywhere. If things aren’t working out, suck it up and move on. 3. I know that you’re shy and that’s ok, but don’t be scared of anything (except maybe sharks, that doesn’t change) Remember that high jump from swim class when you were 7? Go down and take a look at it, it’s SO much smaller than you thought! Now apply that to anything that intimidates you. 4. I know you love art, but minor in a marketable skill, you’ll thank me later. Keep working hard, it’ll pay off!

To prepare myself better filling out more schloarships so that im more financially stable

Anne Marie, remember to make an effort to get involved. You were involved in so many things in high school, and you're confident enough to keep it up. Sure, you may feel shy and awkward, but you're not the only one that feels that way. Talk to people! I know you feel better with one-on-one conversations, but groups aren't that different. Just try it out. What's the worse that can happen? I promise, the whole college will not turn their back on you for saying something stupid or silly your first week. Everyone says stupid stuff their first week! And sometimes longer. Keep your sense of humor, it's going to get you far. Laugh. A lot. And stay proud of who you are. Stay the awkward, loving, silly you. That's how you'll make friends. Just be you.

If I knew then what I know now.... I would have a lot to say to my high school self. If given the chance, I would go back and tell myself first and foremost to change my class schedule immediately to include a music theory class. I would also advise myself to sing the national anthem at sporting events to have more performing experience. But most of all I would advise myself that if I really intended to make this trip across the country, where I would know no one and be essentially starting over, then I need to completely break free of my shell and embrace this new experience in every way possible. Columbia is all about making connections and future contacts with teachers, alumni, and fellow students, and in order to make those contact you have to talk to them and let your personality shine through. The smallest things and bits of advice make the biggest difference.

Always follow your heart. Sometimes, it's easy to let everyday life get in the way of your dreams. If you always follow your heart, you will never give up those dreams, and one day you'll wake up with the life you've always wanted. It isn't always the path of least resistance, but it's the path that is most rewarding.

Keep your head in the books would be the advice I'd give to myself and anyone else making that transition into college. Work hard so you can play hard would be my motto to follow. Networking would be another point I'd give to myself. College is a great time to develop communication skills and friends that you'll have for the rest of your life. Use your teachers to your benefit and don't let your work get you down. Stay on top of your workload so you're always on the upside. As well as college is what you make it! If you feel as if college is going to be dreadful and boring than it will be. On the other hand if you embrace college for what it is, which is a great learning experince that you'll never forget, than college will be all that in more!!!

For me, the most important advice that I could give my high school self is to trust myself. Picking a college is a horribly frightening, unnerving, self-doubting experience. So much pressure is put on students when it comes to picking a school, and it is easy to doubt yourself. The thing about picking a college, though, is that it does not have to be permanent – even if a student does pick a school, and it turns out to be the wrong choice, there is no one stopping that kid from changing his or her mind, and going somewhere else. I think that a lot of students do not think of that, which makes the whole idea of going to college so stressful. That is why I think it is important for students to stop doubting themselves, and just trust in their choices, even if they turn out to be wrong. If a student is going to school doubting him- or herself, the experience will be even scarier than it needs to be. Moving away from home, and everything you know is bad enough without adding the pressure of feeling like you do not know yourself.

Making the transition from high school to Columbia College was a breeze. It was actually easier to attend this college than to make the transition from grade school to high school. There is really nothing I could have done differently to make this transition. Attending Columbia was the most wonderful experience I had in my education to date. The teachers are friendly, knowledgable and demanding in their own way. They work with you until you get it right - and the whole class benefits. Group cooperation is encouraged. The teachers are so willing to impart their real life work experiences you are left knowing exactly what you need to do and what to expect. So different from high school. The advice I would have given myself, attending a worthless Chicago Public High School, would be that instead of dropping out in sophomore year, to accelerate my graduation into three years so I could take advantage of scholarships offered only to high school diploma holders. No one gives money to people with a GED. That is unfortunate and the only thing I would change.

If I could give any advice to myself from high school it would be that a lot of people were not real friends. I have learned from being away that it is very hard to keep in touch with people because of their lack of trying. If someone does not care about getting a hold of you after high school, you obviously did not mean that much to them. Another thing I would tell myself is to work throughout high school and save up money for spending and food and all of that in college because I am a broke college student and it is definitely not fun at all. Most of all, I would tell myself to do what I want to do and what no one else wants me to do because once your on your own in college you learn a lot about who you actually are and what you actually want out of life.

No single film could ever capture the myriad complexities that make up the human experience. Nor could all films collectively until the end of time.* That however, does not mean that some filmmakers will not try to attempt such a daunting task. Filmmaker Patrick Loy, is not one of the those filmmakers. Instead of pursuing that large grey area in between, the films of Loy are about the polarities that exist at opposite ends. The characters in his films live on the fringes of society, possibly even thrive there. In using sound, texture, color, atmosphere, & mood Loy shows an intensity few of his contemporaries can match. In an era where everything is handed to us on a plate, it is nice to know that the dark, challenging, but ultimately rewarding work of Mr. Loy will not make it easy for us. * I realize this statement is remarkably lucid for the likes of me, my fullest apologies to the original author.

Out of my college experience I have learned more about friendship, new ways to meet people, some new things about some people I already know, and of course a lot from the subjects I have been enrolled in. I have made new friends, and reconnected with some old ones. Attending Yuba College has been a valuable experience because I have learned so much, met so many new people, made so many new friends, and experienced things that I would never have experienced if I did not attend Yuba College. Going to this school has been the best experience of my life. I would not trade it for anything.

Being here at Columbia has taught me that, in order for me to acheieve what it is that I want out of life--Im going to have to work for it and be fearless in the decisions that I make. This institution has also taught me that it pays to know who you are, or at least have a good idea about it when you get ready to embark on this crazy ride, called college. I've learned what it means to be lonely in a room full of people, and I've learned that that loneliness is only temporary. There is always something to look forward to. And lastly, I have accepted that people will come and go like seasons--change is inevitable...and I have learned to welcome it.