Delaware Valley University Top Questions

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

Anastasia

I would tell myself that it is alright to allow yourself to have free time and not drive yourself crazy over every little thing. Do your best in your classes, but remember to take a breather every now and then.

Michaela

The first thing I am going to tell you is probably the most important thing you'll ever discover. Listen closely: No one else knows what they're doing either! They just wing it. You can too. It's a lot easier than it looks! The second is this: Confidence is not walking into a room and tellling yourself everyone loves you. It's being able to tell yourself that you'll be fine if they don't. Oh and by the way, I did not come up with either of those sayings, but they've gotten me through everything.

Heather

As a college junior, I have definitely seen many things that I could have done differently as a high school student, not just a high school senior. However, if I could turn back the clock to the time of my senior year of high school, I would have selected differently. Firstly, with my course selection, I would have eliminated my choice of Advanced Placement (AP) Statistics and AP German. To fill in those gaps, I would have selected AP Calculus or the honors version of that course, and either AP Biology or AP Chemistry. At a very early age, I realized what I wanted to pursue as a career. Taking these sciences would have bettered my GPA and gotten my feet wet on what to expect for my college Biological Sciences, and General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Biochemistry courses throughout my past 2.5 years of college. My last year of high school would have been heavily science-oriented, but it would have been worth it. Secondly, I would encourage myself to get more involved in high school, as well as my community. Though high school is about impressing colleges, it is also about creating friendships that will forever last.

Zackery

Advice is a tricky concept to understand. I feel that over the past two years after graduating from high school, I have been empowered with this knowledge I’ve never had before. I would have to tell my past self that college is way different than the teachers ever taught you. It’s all on you, if you mess up, your future and your livelihood could go down the toilet. Every single day is a struggle to see if you’re going to get up that extra hour early to study before an exam or even to study day in and day out for weeks for tests that can make or break you. But in the end of all the struggling and heartache and thousands of gallons of energy drinks later; you graduate from your college or university and have a degree that means something and people look up to you and are inspired by you in your career. College is a ride though, and it’s supposed to be enjoyed with everything you do. So get ready for it, but don’t be afraid because you’ll learn who you truly are and what you were meant to be.

Mary

The door whistles as I step out of the time machine and head into my old school building. I quickly find her and walk over to sit across from myself. The younger high school version of me looks up in astonishment. “There’s no time to explain,” I say quickly, “There’s something I need to tell you.” I see the dark circles under my eyes and look at myself in pity, “I know you’re stressed about choosing a college, but I want to let you know it doesn’t matter what school you choose – it’s what you make of it that counts. All you should be doing right now is cherishing these moments, because believe it or not, you will miss this place and these people.” I check my watch, “I have to go, just…don’t stress. You’ll make tons of friends and your roommate’s awesome. Oh! Stay away from the cafeteria's french fries!" I turn away. "Wait!" she calls, "That's it?" I turn slowly and look into my eyes, “No...next time you see Grandpa…just…make sure you tell him you love him.” And with that I leave my past.

Amber

My advice to my past self would be to try new things. Don't be timid about expressing who you are and what you want to do. Being in High School is all about peer pressure, but once you hit college you realize how much that never mattered. Joining as many activities and groups at your school could be the best thing. Getting involved and being exposed to all sorts of experiences will make the transistion to college much easier. Make as many friends as possible. In college, you make new friends and the people from High School slowly fade away. Theres always breaks and summer to catch up with your old friends. Make as many memories as possible with them now, because later that time will be slim. Your old friends may not seem so important in college, but they tend to always be there for you when you need someone to lean on. Work your butt off! College isn't easy. It takes a lot of money and time to dedicate yourself to succeed. Work hard now through as many part time jobs as you can find and save up! It will pay off in the long run.

Nicole

If I could go back and time and tell myself one thing, it would probably be to sign up for more scholarships. I didn't realize how helpful they can be in the long-run!

Sarah

It is important to remember to be yourself. Everyone comes into a new school worried about finding friends. Be yourself and trust your instincts, but always be willing to give people a second chance, because they are learning about themselves the same way you are discovering new things about yourself. Once you make friends at school, don't forget about your friends from home, they are just as important. The most important thing to always remember, as Dad always says "Don't forget who you are", be strong and confident, because you can do anything you put your mind to.

BreOnna

Be sure to ask yourself "Need or Want?" before making a purchase or packing for college. When you are packing, don't include the items that you havn't used in a while because you won't use it there. When making a purchase, ask yourself if buying the product now is worth not having something else later on. Also, be sure to contribute a percentage of each paycheck to savings. At least a quarter needs to be added to your saving from every paycheck you receive.

Nisha

The advice I would give myself is to try and find a job/voulenteer/intership, in or close to the career I want. Reason is, it will make the class/course a lot less stressul, you will be more confident in taking/passing the class. Don't be afraid to strike up a conversation to the person seating next to you in orientaton / class. Sit in the front row so you can hear the teacher better also your eye sight will not be as good as it use to. Ask a lot of questions regardless as how it sounds: Never procastinate on homework it only add stress to your already busy school/work life. Get sleep, you need to let your brain rest and recharge. Have fun you only have to do this once, might as well go out with a bang! Socialize with a lot of people as they are your soucre for more information and events around campus and Honolulu. It can be your door to success in life if you choose a career in marketing or business. I know you want to do buisness management but test the waters first than make the best decision for you.

Lisa

I would say not to worry. I would say that the academic portion is not much different then high school was. I would say that living in a dorm isn't that bad as long as you have a nice roommate. I would say make friends with your professors, they are there to help. Most of all I would say you're going to be in the National Honor Society, just relax and try to enjoy college.

Joseph

Just one more thing, before I go: you'll be fine next year. I don't want to give much away, but just remember that your aren't the only new kid on the block. Everyone is going to be looking for that person they can lean on, someone to laugh until they cry with, a chemistry tutor, a peer-reviewer, a colleague, a life long friend. If you can do any of that (and I know you can) then I know you won't have any trouble finding your place in your dorm, or the classroom, or anywhere on the road ahead. Oh and about the whole career debacle? Let's just say that "the most interesting people I know didn't know, at twenty-two, what they wanted to do with their lives and some of the most interesting forty-year-olds I know still don't." Now if you'll excuse me I have a life that's calling me back; and you have a life that's calling you forward. Stay golden, Schnelly.

Faith

If I were to go back in time to the high school days; I would extremely change my thoughts of going to college. I graduated a year early in highschool as a junior. I was adopted at around the time I was to complete highschool; in 2007. I would have told myself to go to college and obtain a career. I was 18 then and now I am 24. I spent six years trying to pull myself through life, but I have been dragging. Money is and was hard to find. Witout a degree you make $7.85 an hour which is not much. Gas is $3.57 a gallon and well if you add it up you don't make enough without a degree to live. I am currently going to college for a business associates degree in management. I am currently working as an Operating Engineer for the state of Ohio. I make awesome money but also obtaining a degree through the apprenticship as an associates in Agriculture. I work 50 hours a week and school about 15. I dont have much time for myself but once I have graduated I will. Go to college!

Gregg

If i could go back in time i would tell myself to manage my time wisely, your friends will always be there to go out and have fun but you only have one shot to get a good grade on the test your trying to prepare for. Procrastination was one of my biggest problems and still is, waiting untill the last minute to do something never ends good. A couple hours out of your day wont hurt you and the more you prepare the better off you'll be. i would also tell my high school self to put more effort in, just because the work is "easy" doesnt mean you dont have to try. Strive for what you want to achieve and more, doing the bare minimum instills laziness which never tranfers well when your going into college. A little extra work isnt going to kill you and can only help you out in the long run. I believe these are the two most important things i would tell my highschool self and i believe if i would have done these things who knows what kind of goals i could have reached!

colin

Do not stress. College is such an amazing part of your life and all of your worrying is completely for nothing. You will meet people, you will make lasting friendships, you will have a big smile on your face every day. The transition from high school to College is absolutely nothing to be afraid of.

Hugh

I would tell myself that each day is a precious gift so I need to appreciate all the aspects of each moment, good or bad. A recent phrase that has become common in today's culture, especially among the high school and college age group, is YOLO. YOLO stands for "you only live once". The majority of the time, the people using this phrase are either doing something reckless or about to do something reckless. To me this phrase just emphasizes the glaring truth that we only live on this beautiful Earth once and we don't have long to enjoy or better yet impact other people's lives. Each and every moment will never be played back again. There is no rewind or pause button like on the movie "Click" with Adam Sandler. You only have one shot to live a life that you are proud of living. I feel like this has been the biggest focal point in how my thinking has changed since I graduated high school and I think that I would have greatly appreciated someone trying to help me appreciate how special and lucky I really was/am.

Ariana

At the age of twenty two, I am one of my college's oldest freshman. If I could go back in time, back to high school, I would tell myself that the most important thing about education is passion. Immediately out of high school I tried to choose a major that I knew would make my family happy, first Forensic Science and then Psychology. However, I wasn't happy with either of those majors. I ended up dropping out of school and taking a few years off. After two years of working odd jobs for little pay, I realized the only way I was going to get through college was to major in something I love. As I head in to the end of my freshman year, I know I've learned my lesson. High school self, realize that the most important thing is to be true to yourself. The only person who needs to be satisfied with your life is you. As Randy Komisar said, “The most dangerous risk of all – The risk of spending your life not doing what you want on the bet you can buy yourself the freedom to do it later.”

Lauren

If I could back and talk to myself when I was a high school senior the main advice I would give myself would be to go out there and get experience. My first two years of college I attended a local community college and during that time I should have been volunteering at shelters, trying to work for veterinary clinics, hospitals, labs, basically anything that was out there and available I should have been looking into. I just thought I had more time and that I would get experience after community college. Now that I'm at Delaware Valley though, everyone around me has had years of experience. They've been working at Veterinary clinics and volunteering on farms, at shelters, all of these different places. I realized then that I was very behind and that I needed to catch up. So, to my past high school senior self, go out there and gain experience! Whether it's cleaning up poop or grooming, or working in a vet hospital, just make sure you're constantly gaining experience for the future.

Stacy

I would tell my high school senior self to not be afraid to take chances and to go with your gut. I would say don't be afraid to look into greek life, because I wish I had joined Alpha Phi Omega sooner. I would also say don't let stress weigh you down, just slow down and take one step at at time. Lastly I would tell myself to enjoy the time I have spent at Delaware Valley College. Enjoy the time you have with your friends, enjoy the small moments.

Ashley

Dear 16 year old Ashley, This is your 24 year old self. I wanted to give you some words of advice that you may find useful in your adventure in getting a Higher Education. Continue to work hard towards becoming an art therapist. The passion that you have will be very useful and motivating when you get to where I am today. Don't lose sight at what you want to accomplish the most in that career field. This might sound crazy coming from yourself, however, do not rush to grow up and leave the nest. Our home life may be "rough" now with the family and not getting along with certain people. However a life filled with debt is no walk in the park. Study at a community, get your generals done, and before you know it you will be on your own in no time. Please stop rushing to grow up, cherish the "childhood" that you have. And yes your parents may be strict now, but they only want the best for you and that strictness helps you to be a better person. Rember to no stress about the small things in life. Sincerely, 24 year old Ashley

Renee

Ahhh, if I could go back, the things I would say to myself. Hah, I bet I wouldnt listen, not even to older me. I was headstrong. I know I would encourage the high school self to focus more on math and science. I avoided those subjects for two reasons. I was lazy, and I was afraid of failure. I would also encourage at least applying to colleges, instead of avoiding the whole college scene and joining the Army. My army experience was great, and I would not trade it, but I wish I had been more focused and driven when I was young. Trying to obtain an education while being a single parent is more difficult than I had ever thought way back then. I would say cherish the failure, and learn from it, and to know that I was much much smarter than I ever knew. It took challenging science and math classes in college for me to realize this, and to search out more classes like them. I do not know if I will be a chemical engineer or a petroleum engineer, but I know now I am capapble of either.

Shelly

Walking into an unknown environment like college, not knowing anyone, is going to be a lot different then the warm welcoming feeling you get when you are in high school. I would tell myself that college is going to be a great change you need, because it will teach you to be more responsible and independent. Although, it might be stressful right now figuring out your future, in the long run it will all pay off. Also, the dreams you have been striving for will all come true if you work hard enough at it and get through your final push of high school. So not only would I tell my high school self to not worry but also to just enjoy highschool while it lasts. Lastly

Brittany

Dear Brittany, Everyone knows college is a wakeup call to a typical high school student, and this will include you. Should you get involved on campus? Yes. Is college expensive? Of course, what college is not expensive, but what no one tells you is what goes on before you become a member of a Greek club. You could be seriously scared for life. I know you are a passionate girl who takes everything everyone says to heart and very emotional so joining a Greek club is NOT for you. Hazing will scar you for the rest of your life and causes you to lose friends you thought you were best friends with. Before college, people will tell you joining a Greek club is the best thing that can happen to you and you gain some of the best friends out of it, but you know what? THEY ARE WRONG! Hazing and joining a Greek club will never be of interest so do not go wasting the time or money on something that will forever suit you.Sincerely,Brittany

Alexandra

I would go back and tell myself to not stress so much about the money. My parents separated the last 3-4 weeks of my senior year and I went to live with my two aunts with my mom. After leaving my dad I did not know how I would pay for college; I would tell myself that Del Val is where I want to be and that the money situation will be okay. Also I would tell myself to start stocking up on food for the dorm rooms because otherwise you'll end up going out every time your boyfriend comes up and you spend more time driving than you do together. Not only stock up on food, but I would tell myself to buy more button down tops and camis because that tends to be what you will end up wearing up on campus for many events. Stop spending money on dresses and ask your mom to start buying things that are better for farm work; that's what most people wear up here in the agricultural fields.

Melissa

Oh, that's easy. I'd tell myself to relax a little. I really didn't need to be as uptight as I was about making the transition into college; sure, leaving home and everyone there was hard, but there were new friends waiting. I was right not to worry about the classes, they're geared toward people like me, who simply want to learn. Yeah, sometimes there's a lot of homeowrk, and it can be a little much to balance a job with that, but all I have to do is stop worrying, take a deep breath, and take the plunge. It's worth it, and I would tell high school-me that I've got what it takes to thrive.

Dominique

If I could go back and talk to myself, I would tell myself to relax. I was all nerves going into the first day of college, and the classroom setting at college was much better than I had imagined. It was not that much of an adjustment. I would also tell myself to lighten up when it comes to the work, I spent too much time last semester on one professor who wound up in the end, not grading any of it, and I had spent so much time on only his work. I wish I would have known the busy-work factor and to know how to handle it. As for making the transition, I would have told myself to be confident with who you will be paired with as a roommate. My roommate was awesome this year, and we are great friends, but I was so scared going into it. Everything worked out, as everyone said it would, and I would go back and tell myself to listen to them all, they are right, everything happens for a reason and it will all work out in the end. Just be yourself and the rest will fall into place.

Emily

Going to college is a step into the unknown and involves a lot of changes at once. My first piece of advice involves starting off with a good academic record. Get the best grades possible! You need to learn to prioritize what’s important to get done. Secondly, ask your professors for help and use the tutoring services. One of my professors was right when he said that it is his job to help students and answer questions. Also, the school may make you feel pressured to make a decision early; but it’s okay to take your time, just use your electives to investigate possibilities. Do something you love that will pay the bills. When I knew I was going to commute to school, all the stress about living away from home went away. As a commuter, your schedule needs to be done in a way that you are not driving to school multiple times a day. I tried to fit in as many classes so I could to get the most out of my time there. Also, it is important to involve yourself in campus activities so that you can feel connected. Relax and enjoy the experience.

Rebecca

I would tell myself to look at where you want to be after your college education. I would also tell myself to try my best at everything I do because I know that no matter what it is, it will take me somewhere in life.

Gina

Knowing what I now know about the college life, the advice I would give myself is to learn good time management skills. In the college world, these skills are tested. One has to be able to balance the amount of school work, along with extra curricular activites. Assignments in college are sometimes given weeks in advance, and if one manages his or her time well, he or she would know when this assignment would be completed along with all of his or her other classes. More time must also be dedicated to studying. As a college student one has to manage their time wisely to ensure enough studying is done to succeed in class. A lot of advice can be given to any high school senior about the college life, but time management skills are key to a college student's success.

Skyrie

No matter what you are going through in life, it may be a financial struggle or death in the family. Think about the other kids that don’t have the opportunity to do what you are doing today; such as free education, have a bed to lie on, and have something to put in your mouth. One day, your eyes will open and all of your queries about the world and the limited time people have here on Earth will make sense. You just have to push yourself to your destination. Success will come your way.

Nicole

"Just be confident, and just be you." This is what I would want to tell myself if I could go back in time. As a graduating senior who had never been away from her hometown, I was a very naive student making the transition into college. I expected a new freedom but could not fully comprehend what it would be like or how to handle it. I initially came to college as an athlete and quickly made the decision to focus on school and other clubs available rather than spend all my time dedicated to one activity. I also found it difficult to figure out how to manage extra time and a social life. Looking back as myself as a high school senior, I would want to be told to just relax, be confident in myself, and to have fun. I should have been more willing to just socialize once I completed my academic work to be able to establish a social network on campus sooner than I did. Luckily, by the end of my first year here, I was able to find my comfort zone and really let my personality shine.

Taylor

If I could go back into time as a high school senior, I would completely change my attitude towards coming into college. Even though I was a pretty good student in high school and had prepared myself a lot for the transition, there is much more that I could have done to prepare. One of the most important things of advice I would tell myself is to not procrastinate! Not doing the homework until the night before it's due when you usually have two days is a terrible idea and I have learned the hard way! Another piece of advice I would give myself is to study a lot more than I do now. I do take the time to study for all of my tests but I think the way I study needs to change, so I would tell myself to study often and make sure I'm taking good notes during class to study from. In my opinion, those are the most important things someone going into college would need to know. I wish I had known someone that went to college before me so that they could have warned me!

Lillie

My advice would start with studying to show thyself approve a workman need not be a shame rightly dividing the word of truth (NIV). The reason I started with this scripture is that I didn’t apply myself to earn a good grade point average in high school I was very passive. I only study when I had to usually before a test. My biggest problem I would say was not actively listening. Maybe my being overweight and not having the proper diet and balance nutrition could be partly the problem as well. I was always so tire when it came to listening to a lecture. I had big dreams and high hopes for the future but never had anyone to push me in that direction to accomplish my goals. I always wanted to be an opera singer great voice with a lot of potential. I also wanted to pursue college right after high school Bethune Cookman and FAU perhaps what I had in mine. Many people I have talked with over the years said going to college after high school was the best time of their life. I often have deep regret when thinking back over my life.

Ingrid

My senior year of High School one of my good friends died. Looking back now, I would tell myself, “It wasn't my fault. I know now about his death, that I couldn't have stopped it and that there was nothing I could have done, no matter how desperately I wish I could have. There is a time to grieve and there is a time to move on and he would be so proud of me for picking myself up and going to the college I have always dreamed about going to. Be frugal with my money but never stingy with a smile. Do not to feel bad for being happy, because he would be happy that I am happy. Remember to pay attention in class because you will use it later and thank all of your teachers.” I think knowing all of this would have made my freshman year a lot easier. I could have came into college embracing my new surroundings and been able to focus on going to college and the experiences I was yet to have, instead of missing my friend.

Kimberly

If I could go back and better prepare my self with college. I would tell myself not to quit the second job I had so that I would be better prepared for the financial struggles that come with going to college. I would also changed my studying habit, since I never studied in high school it is transfering over to how I am in college. I would of better prepared myself for buying my first car, so that I would have more reliable transportation back and forth from my school.

chloie

Transitioning from baby to big kid in the matter of a summer can take a toll on ones emotions and wallet. If I were able to go back in time to my senior year and give myself the perfect advice to guarantee that I would be prepared for the next four years I would tell myself that my professors are not there to baby the students like the teachers in high school. For the first time in my life everything became my responsibility. Whether moving off to a university or staying home and attending community college professors expect the most from you. Frankly professors don’t care whether you pass their class or not, they are there to teach the class and it’s your responsibility to absorb everything you can from the class. Unlike college, teachers and school staff will take the extra time to ensure you’re a success. Another piece of advice I would give is prepare to be broke! You’re going to be attending school, studying, and doing school related activities which leaves little time for a job and all money coming in will be spent on school and bare essentials only.

Blaine

If I could go back in time to tell myself all about horrors of college, I honestly don’t think I’d have much to say. I would definitely warn myself about the harder courses that I would take and advise myself to look at other majors similar to the Biology major. I would also tell myself that if I expect to work hands on with a lot of animals, like I hoped to, to think again, since my major barely taught me anything about animals or pointed me in the right direction training wise to work with them and to continue learning what I need and want too on my own; most importantly I'd tell myself to keep on making plans and knowing what I want, and need, to get done and don’t let anyone tell me that I can’t or it’s too hard, since that’s been the way for me my whole life. Finally, I’d tell myself to enjoy my four years of college a bit more, maybe find a better major with less difficult and more helpful courses since I didn’t enjoy college as much as I hoped I would.

Meredith

I would tell myself as a senior to relax. I was so stressed out about whether or not I was going to the right college and if I would get the right education for my dream career. I would say to myself that I will get the right education I need and that I will make plenty of friends. Another thing I would tell myself is to study hard in high school. I didn't study that hard in high school so transitioning to studying in college was pretty hard. I would have done a lot better in more classes and I would have a higher GPA right now if I had just learned to study in high school. My high school self might not have listened but atleast I would know!

KRISTEN

You need to save as much as possible. Make sure your study habits are better than normal and you are willing to accept hard challenges. when the time comes to take a test, relax and try to remember your information in song, since you do remember more with a catchy melody. be patient and kind. do more community service and apply for more scholarships. take advantage of internships and other ways to earn credit or money for school. but always remember dont lose who you are, keep your passion right where it's all been, have full confidence in yourself. you are doing the best you most possibly can and you will make it out in the end. and please become even more active it's boring staying in all day.

Rebecca

If I were given the opportunity to travel back in time and speak to my college-anxious, worrysome and enthusiastic self, there would be a lot to talk about in terms of college advice. I was so nervous about who my roommate was going to be, having to take a shower in a "community bathroom" setting, the work load and how I could possibly manage being away from my best friends from high school. In all honesty, I had absolutely nothing to worry about. My roommate and I got along very well and we were there for each other in the midst of the beginning-of-the-semester chaos. The shower situation turned out to be no big deal at all; everyone is very respectful. Shower shoes are a necessity, though. The work load is very manageable, too. I stay focused and avoid procrastinating as much as possible. Writing down assignments on a checklist is very helpful. Finally, keeping in touch with my friends was not difficult. We called each other, stayed in touch online and even passed around a journal of our college experiences between the four of us through the mail. All in all, college is amazing.

bergj

College life is about having fun and trying new things, but it is also a time when you need to study and work hard. There are a lot of responsibilities that come with graduating high school and going to college. The best advice I can give you is to focus on your assignments and complete them on time. This is an important lesson that needs to be learned before you enter a university. College professors do not accept late assignments and there are no second chances; therefore, if you don’t complete them you are wasting your time and money. Take notes and attend every class, these are the skills you will need to be a successful student in college. There will always be distractions, but it is learning to use your time wisely in high school that will reflect and allow you to be a good student when you graduate.

Christina

Attending college has truly been a rewarding experience. I have learned so many valuable lessons, from time management and importance of keeping up with reading and homework, to learning new subjects and broadening my perspectives on school and life. Being a non-traditional college student has definitely proven to be a challenge on many levels, one must learn how to balance the responsibilities of work, home, and school. However, once you learn how to balance your time for these things, you are able to open your mind and enjoy the journey. From taking English Composition, I have learned how to properly write and format essays and term papers. While taking Psychology and Interpersonal Communications, I learned how to better understand human behavior and group dynamics. As well as learning about the human body and how to document various conditions and diseases from taking Anatomy and Physiology and Medical Terminology classes. Attending college has helped me grow as a person, learn how to be a good student, and has put me on the right path to earning my nursing degree. Without a college education, I could not be on my way to a successful and fulfilling career in the medical field.

Darrian

so far, i have gotten a lot out of my college experience such as, me building substantial college essay writing abilites. for example i haved learned the (P.I.E structure) which is a useful tool for forming good paragraphs. Also i have become a much better writer overall for instance, when i was in highschool i never used to be able to start off an essay but after this first semester, i'm starting and finishing them with no problem thanks to my college experience. I also beileve my college experience has made me much more mature and a overall good student because, before this experience i never really used my outside time for school but now I am on a time management schedule and i devote atleast 3 hours of my outside time to school everyday, whether it's studying or reading a couple of chapters out of my textbook either way im getting in my productive 3 hours. this has been valuable to me because college has really shined a light on my potential because , for the first time i have won an acadimic award for being most improved and that honestly boosted my confidence.

Yvette

The most important thing that I have received from college is a sense of accomplishment that I was able to go back to school after 10 years. It is so valuable for me to attend because my children will be attending college soon and it is my job to set the example of what is expected from them. My current course of study is aligned with my immediate goal of attaining a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration, and my long-term goal of owning a business consulting firm within the Orlando community. This ambition is certainly attainable as my academic achievements will validate, and my intellectual ability and work ethic are certainly attributes which contribute to my potential for success. My penchant for knowledge has been obvious since my high school days, and my ability to excel academically has once again been demonstrated in my college classes. It is without doubt, I believe, I will be successful once given the opportunity. To that end, I beseech you to give my consideration to and scholarships and grant assistance accordingly.

Anya

I love going to college. It has given me a chance to discover myself and learn more about the world and people I am surrounded by. It has given me a chance to shape my goals, dreams, and a future. It has given me chance to discover what I stand for in different social and political issues. College helps me to become a better worker, citizen, and overall person. Attending College makes me feel sucessful and acomplished and like I can be a great addition to the community I live in. College challenges me and helps me to become more diligent and responsible person. English is my second language. I never thought I could learn English in 6 months; howevr, college has helped me do that, and I did! Thanks to the challenges at college I feel very confident and excited about contoinuing my education. I cannot wait to become a teacher and hopefully make the kids excited and confident about education, just as college has made me.

Stephan

The things i have gotten out of my college experience is being responsible, taking care of myself. It has been valuable to attend this school because this school teaches you how to survive out in the real world.

Katie

There is so much that I have gotten out of this first semester. I am sure that the semesters to follow with keep continuing to teach me things. This is one reason why I have choosen education. I love the looks on faces of people when you teach them new things and thier faces light up like a young child opening up a Chirstmas gift. I come from a single mother who raise me and has help me become the person that I am today. It is vaulable for me to attend college because my mother wants the best for me. What parent wouldn't? I was excited to call her with my midway grades and she praised me so much. I know that she is proud of me. I remember how she when I was little, how she taught me to ride a horse,tie my shoes and other things. I can only say that I hope as a teacher I can touch one child in the way that my mother has taught me, one of her greatest gifts is patience.

Jennifer

The college experience is one that can be fully found at Delaware Valley College. Starting out as a freshman Equine Studies student, I did not know what to expect when it came to an agricultural school. I had visited city colleges and universities before but never had I fully experienced what it was like to attend classes where some of the classrooms were barns, fields, and stables. Delaware Valley College is completely different from other schools, but in a good way. It gave me the hands-on experience I needed to get the experience that I would not find from reading a book. At the same time, DelVal has a wide array of clubs and organizations that made making friends easier and being involved in the school an easy task. I joined the Dressage Team and made many friends through the tryouts and club meetings. DelVal also had many activities and events. Pride and Polish is where clubs pull up their sleeves and do mini projects around campus to "clean up DelVal" or there's A-Day which is where everything throughout the year comes together. I got to show my family how much work I put into my year.

ashley

I always wanted to be a vet since I was 4 years old. I feel that Delaware Valley College is letting me learn with hands on experience to be able to live my dream. The faculty and students work together to make this experience enjoyable , while learning all I need to make me the best Vet possible. I find it incredible that I can learn while doing. This gives me the experience and confidence to do my profession on my own. Delaware Valley College inspires me to be the best it has been a life changing experience. I would really appreciate the opportunity to win this scholarship because my Mom is struggling as a single mom to be able to make me live my dream. Thank you Ashley Serridge

Rachael

If I could go back in time, I would advise myself to expect to be sad when moving away from home. Living apart from my hometown, friends, family, and pets was really the hardest part of making the transition. I never realized how much I loved where I lived until I was away from it. Not that living in Doylestown is bad, but it is definitely a change from living in the coal region. I would tell myself to spend more time with my family and friends before I left and to tell them they make sure to keep in touch. I would also say to prepare for the work load that college puts on you. It is a different story than being in high school. I would need to set aside whole nights for studying and homework. All in all, I would just say to enjoy the time I had while I was still having it. College is the first step into the real world and I needed to be prepared.