DePaul University Top Questions

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

Madison

If I went back in time, I would tell myself that college is not as scary as it seems. Moving away from home is a great opportunity to make new friends and gain independence. After a few weeks, homesickness is not a problem. I would also remind myself that having a fear of socializing is not needed in college. All of the people at DePaul are extremely friendly.

Brian

If I were to talk to my high school self, I would tell him to start applying for scholarships sooner and more seriously. College is expensive and we are seeing the difficulties of paying for it a lot more now. I would also tell myself that DePaul has a ton to offer and to get invloved with as much as possible. I would tell myself that I am going to make a few really close friends and that I am going to feel welcome. I will meet teachers that I constantly try to get into their class again because they are great teachers. Finally, I would tell myself that I don't have to worry about commuting to and from school and that it won't interfere with me getting a "college" experience. Mom and Dad have been very flexible with letting me stay with friends on campus and that it works out well this way. College has been great so far and expect that the rest of it will be too.

Dana

I would start off by asking myself, "Why do I want to go college? How will going make me a better person both academically and financially? Will this transition make my family and friends proud of me?" When I have come and established my real desires and dreams, I would definitely know if going and representing the right college is for me. Understanding that education is very important, it is also costly. I am a firm believer in " Where there is a well, there is a way. One has not, because they ask not." So not having to stress out about the issue of paying for college, I would focus more on what kind of education I will be receiving and how that college can give me exactly what I need to succeed. I will as stay motivated and determined, realizing that whatever I put my mind to, I can do it.

Katlyn

The advise I would give my self as a high school senior would be to be open-minded, hard working, and to be yourself. Being open-minded at such a diverse school is very important because there are all types of people at DePaul University and in the city of Chicago. Making friends with all types of people is important because you learn a lot about different cultures, religions, political views, etc. Growing up in a white, middle-class town, you do not see a lot of different types of people. It's a big change going from a rural town to a big city, so being open-minded is important. Also, being a hard worker at school is number one! Some students think college is all about partying, skipping classes, and being able to pass with out going to class. But it is not, college is hard and you need to be a hard, dedicated worker to be able to succeed. One more important piece of advice I would give myself is to be yourself, do not try to be someone you are not because you will not make true, lasting friendships that way. Be yourself and have fun!

Sandra

My college experience has been an emotional roller coaster ride. I say this because I am married, work full time, attend classes full time, and take care of my household responsibilities. Additionally, I am paying college tuition for myself and assisting in paying college expenses for my two daughters. I obtained my first degree in 1980 with a very low grade point average; something I have always regretted. After several years in the workforce, I knew that I wanted to return to college to obtain a second degree. I waited until both my daughters were in college to apply to the Surgical Technology Program. In January 2010, I began my quest to prove to myself that I could and would do better in college. So you ask me what have I gotten out of my college experience; it is simple. I have received new zest in my life, a new spring in my step, and a 3.83 GPA out of a possible 4.00 GPA. Attending college a second time has been a valuable tool in showing my two daughters that they have no excuse for not doing well in college.

Katie

The greatest thing I’ve gotten out of school and especially DePaul is the inspiration to not only be a better person but to inspire people to be better people. The friendly teachers and staff throughout the school remind me every day of how knowledge is power but knowledge will get you nowhere unless you share it with others and put it to good use. Some schools teach you history, science and math but DePaul teaches you basic subjects while showing you how you are unique and how you can use those unique traits to not only experience the world around you but how to help others and teach them the things you have learned. Knowledge is power but the ability to help others and share your knowledge and use you knowledge to experience the world and eventually change it and change the lives is others is the most valuable thing I have learned at DePaul.

Laura

It has been an invaluable experience of personal growth and knowledge. People say in college you "find yourself". Although that it is a rather cliche sentiment, it is true to a certain extent. For me, I grew up in an enviroment counter to my nature. Mississippi is a very homogenous setting. The majority of people are white. conservative with a narrow-minded tendency. As an open-minded, liberal, and racial minority this enviroment was stiffling. When I moved to Chicago, I felt a breath of fresh air. Finally I could speak my mind and be true to myself. In that sense, I 'found myself'. Personal responsibility is crucial to surviving and thriving - it is all encompassing. You are responsible for everything from homework to health. Mom and dad are no longer there to help when it gets hard. In class I have learned so much about theatre arts and communication studies! At my school, my professors are professionally working and I am making lasting connections with people in the industry. My professors fully understand the material they are teaching. I am getting my money's worth (and more) at DePaul Univeristy. Go Blue Demons!

Tiffany

I have learned the value of respect. As we know, colleges are melting pots and everyone is different. Whether it is religion or taste, we all have to step out into this diverse world. Throughout my college experience I have learned to respect the opinions and views of others because everyone possess different backgrounds and have different values. Being a student at DePaul University is constantly preparing me for this step and allows me to grow on campus as well as within myself.

Tiffini

My college experience has truly been a priceless part of my continued growth as a student in life. Although my career goals have changed over the years, my values and beliefs have been nurtured and enhanced because of my college experiences. I believe that education should be a continuous lifelong experience to enable lifelong growth. Education in and out of the classroom is a vital part of who I am on my journey to achieve my goals. It not only keeps my mind sharp and alive, but nurtures my inner spirit and passion in my daily life. For it is this passion that makes me excited for each days "fresh start" and opportunities that are available to me. By having the opportunity to continue my education, I am given the chance to be the best possible person I can be as well as help guide others around me to achieve their goals too. I wish to continue to pursue my education and obtain my masters degree in education. It will not only add to my college experiences, but to my life ones and that is truly priceless!

Jeffrey

The best is to understand the american way of studying. Applying real life exercises that I was able to apply to my job.

Sarah

My college experience has helped in my growth not only academically but also socially. Not only the DePaul University campus, but also Chicago, has provided a diverse community for my personal development. Through the campus environment I have learned to appreciate the different cultures and beliefs of others and treasure the similarities shared by all. Academically I have learned so much through hands on experiences traveling different places such as The Hyde Park Center for the Arts and the Cook County Jail. Professors at DePaul have taken the material out of the textbook and placed it into the context of real life and valuable experiences. Having the privilege of attending a private liberal arts college is not something that I take lightly. I have joined on campus clubs and groups such as UNICEF, College Democrats, and Invisible Children. I believe that getting involved in campus initiatives adds a whole new aspect to the college experience. I believe that through my education at DePaul University I have grown as a person, student and global citizen.

Laura

I have obviouslty gained an abundance of knowledge in attending college but it has been beneficial because it has opened my eyes to career options I was unaware of. I have had my fair share of ok teachers but I have also had a few that were exceptional. From them I have seen that not all that I encounter in my upcoming career will be "by the book". Its easy to get discourage in the clinincal setting by an educator that won't give you a chance as a student but myself and others in my program have been taught that there is something to gain out of every clinical experiance, even if that lesson is hot NOT to act. We're taught the anatomy, physiology and ethics in great detail but we're also taught how important it is to have a good attitude.

Julie

I have been in college for three semesters, attending a comunity college. So far my experience has been great because I like learning, especially things of interest to me. I have been able to take several classes that, I have ejoyed and a few that I didn't like so much. But by taking those classes that I didn't like, has shown me what I don't want to study as a possible professional career choice. Being able to attend college is very valuable to me because, it gives me the opportunity to better educate myself, so that I can get a professional job, that will allow me to do the things that I love and enjoy to do. Attending college not only allows me to get a better education, but it also allows me to grow as a person. Without college, I'm not sure what I would be doing with my time, so I'm greatful for this opportunity.

Daniel

College has without doubt been the most cherished time of my life. Having studied in three different continents has enabled me to make life-long friends from all corners of the world. Furthermore, I have been able to meet so many interesting persons, from government ambassadors to the prime minister of Thailand. In the constantly changing world that we live in, these experiences I have attained, living in an Asian, European, and American culture has truly equipped me with invaluable tools to take on any challenge that I might face in the future, as a true global citizen. Despite a highly decorated passport, great college transcripts, and several honors received, what my college experience truly has given me is an immense amount of self-worth. College has shown me that I can reach new heights and achieve any goal I desire.

Brandon

The independence gained in on-campus living has been a great experience to me. I have adjusted to being on my own on campus away from home, and I am adjusting to an entirely new city. I am primarily on my own schedule; we must manage our time wisely, know when to work, adjust to classes and maintain focus in a free environment. I have gained a greater level of responsibility for myself, being on my own and in another state altogether away from my family. This is valuable to me because I would not be able to gain this experience and responsibility otherwise. After college, I will be taking on the role of an independent adult and living on campus and the challenges that come with it are preparing me well. I wash my own clothes, eat on my own, handle mail and business, and manage sleep, time, work, and other activities and duties. Most high school and home students normally leave some of these and other things to their parents. On-campus life is a fulfilling experience and I am gaining adult responsibility beyond parents and responsibility of my life.

Rachel

Through my brief experiences with college life, I have found that the world is a far greater place than I had ever imagined. I have matured alot in the past two years, and I see that I have to take responsibility for myself. My future is in my hands alone, and I can either choose to accept that my success is dependent on myself, or I can slack off and let my life fall by the wayside. I choose to stand up and fight the good fight.

Denice

Since the beginning of my freshman year at DePaul University, I have gained a whole life experience. I have grown greatly since the beginning of my college life, and I am continuing to grow and prosper. When I was in high school, I would always be told by people in college I knew, that college is a life changing experience. You grow and learn from others in your classrooms, and in some cases, you begin to really learn who you are. I learned a great deal about myself over the years, and I also learned about all the different people that surround me. I've learned that people that may seem so different from me can actually be the people I have most in common with. Outside of gaining knowledge through text books, the most important thing i've gained through DePaul is the life experience of being able to share my idea and thoughts with others. I wouldn't change anything I experienced for the world. It has meant a lot to me to arrive at the point I am in my life, and I couldn't be any more greatful for it.

Konrad

From my college experience, the most valuable thing so far is my study abroad program which I am currently involved in. DePaul offered me a full year abroad in France and Sweden where I can study in english, and earn a european bachelor in just one year. I have had great experiences here so far and all the classes I have taken have helped me see what I want to do after college. Furthermore, this experience will diversify my resumee further and allows me to see the world from another perspective than just America. I look forward to my time in Sweden and how life compares there to life in the US and France.

Joel

My college experience has influenced my daily life. My smile defines my personality, but my memories define what I believe. I have learned in my short life to enjoy life as it is. Sometimes life can get crazy, but it's the people who emerge from tough times that influence our culture. Depaul has taught me to be not only a student, but a socially responsible leader. I am simply a happy person who grabs onto everything in life and holds on tight, and that makes for a great story.

Hannah

As with any other life experience I have had, my college experience has helped to unveil who I am, where my passions lie, and how I would like to create my life. Through the critical thinking, analyzing, listening, and problem solving skills I have honed thus far throughout my school years, I have applied these assets to not only help me in my academics and career but in my relationships and other life goals as well.

Denise

College is so different from high school. As a freshman in college, it is harder than I thought for me to transision to all of the different changes. College has tought me to study better and harder becauase the tests and quizs aren't candy coated any more, so I better be prepared. College means a lot to me. It means a chance to become something in this world. The saying "do what you love and love what you do," has never meant more to me than it does right. College is valuable to me because it gives me a chance to become what I have always wanted to be, and what I will forever be. College makes me have a better work ethic and I know that nothing in this world will be able to teach me this lesson any better than at college. I will always remember my college experiences and why I chose to continue my education. Nothing could be better than this!

Taylor

Being in college, I have learned that the most importantly that being a socially responsible leader is essential to your college success and there after. I've learned to articulate skillfully and live with a sense of authenticity, purpose, and ethical integrity. DePaul prides itself on diversity and being here has taught me to engage and listen compassionately to alternative and diverse perspectives and people. I've learned to actively participate in civic and political processes such as voting and protesting injustices. Also, to be able to think systemically about social problems and opportunities. DePaul has taught me so far to strive for excellence and always exercise ethical decision-making and leadership no matter what field you go into. I love DePaul University and I feel apart of a family that values all of its members. I feel that being at this university has changed my life forever and because of it I will acheive all that I dream of.

Kimberly

College, thus far, has given me a newfound passion for learning and has developed my skills as a writer. In high school, I enjoyed classes, but never really was able to connect school life with what I thought was reality. Now that I am fully immersed in the "real world"(i.e; paying bills, working multiple jobs), I understand how what students learn in class can indeed be carried into other aspects of life. Its amazing to learn a random fact in an art history class, and then later that week hear or see something in everyday life that relates to it. The professors I have had all have contributed greatly in nurtuing this love of learning. They have a sense of enthusiasm towards their fields that gets everyone excited to learn more. Writing skills are also deemed highly important here, and the professors do their best to help every student develop his or her writing skills to a level that will best ensure their success later in life. Writing is perhaps the most valuable skill in terms of getting a job or establishing connections, so that alone makes college worth every cent.

Briana

I attend a two-year community college. So far I have had a good college experience. I have had lots of work to do and however hard it was, I am grateful because it has kept my mind fresh and is only making me smarter.

Yahaira

My college experience so far has been good. I transfered from a small community college to DePaul University and it was a huge change for me. I like being around different people from different cultures and religious backgrounds. I get to learn not just from the professors but from my classmates as well. You meet people from different states and people from different countries. This experience to meet new people has made me a better person and a better communicator, I not only associate from people of my own race but now I associate with other races and it has helped me understand their way of life and cutural background and beliefs. DePaul is very diverse and I have gained alot of knowlegde and respect for others.

Allison

College has taught me that grades are not the only thing to worry about. You learn not just in the classroom but outside of it. I have taken advantage of opportunities which have not only taught me about the world, but also about myself. DePaul has brightened my future by showing me and providing paths for me. They are great in giving the students opportunities for internships and career connections. They are always thinking about the furure, and that makes me more relieved. In high school, everyone knows the next step: go to college and earn a degree. But in college, no one really has the answer. DePaul provided me with the tools and knowledge to help and answer the question of, "What next?" I am no longer anxious about the future, and now I worry more about the world around me right now and try to absorb as much life experience as possible both in class, on campus and in the city of Chicago.

Veronica

I have gotten valuable tools needed to succeed within and outside of DePaul University. When I first enrolled I was afraid of not being able to pay for school and keep with my school work and just life in general. But choosing to go to DePaul was the best thing that could have happened to me. There is a common saying within society that claims ?you find ?yourself? in college,? and it?s true! I have found my place society. I have learned what I want for myself and society and how to get there. Not only do I have a plan on how to succeed and change the world, I have the support. I know I have mentors and staff would are willing to push me and back me up if I need a hand. In a sense the DePaul community has positively shaped me into a greater person, into a valuable person in society. It is because of value of giving back to the community and valuing and nurturing individual?s greatest potential, shaping society for the better, individuals should attend. Future students will not regret it, I haven?t.

Kimberly

My college experience at DePaul taught me about the world, and that is the best gift they could have given me. Coming from a sheltered middle class neighborhood in the suburbs of Chicago, I had never had the chance to meet and learn about different cultures, races, and backgrounds of individuals. Through my class work and the students and professors I met, I learned about everything from the prison system and its racially involved background to the development of the brain as a research assistant. I found myself thanking professors for opening my mind to issues that I never even knew existed, and those lessons continue to stay with and impact me. I feel that I am a better person for knowing what I know now, and have a view of the world that is not nearly as closed in as it once was. I cannot express in words how much I learned from DePaul University and many of its amazing faculty members, but I can say that what I did learn is sticking with me for life.

ruben

experience in photoshop, ullustrator, dreamwiver, premiere cs4

Corie

I have learned so much in the short time I've been in college. I have learned how to live on my own and take care of myself. I have also had the experience of exploring the city and living with roommates. Along with those great experiences, I now enjoy and am interested in the classes I am taking because they relate to my major. I am also in the Accounting honors program at DePaul which allows me to go to recruiting events and meet potential future employers at the beginning of my academic career. I am confident I will be able to use my degree and find a job when I graduate from college because of the education I am getting here. I have also learned how important it is to get involved. You meet more people that way, get more out of your experience, and meet people who have similar interests. DePaul has taught me many valuable things that I will continue to use throughout my life in addition to my career.

Jaleel

As a college student now, I would tell myself "don't sweat it, but stay serious." As a high school Senior, I was so worried about going to college and whether I would be "higher learning" material when the time came. I had always done well in high school academically, to get by that is, but I felt I was missing an important characteristc in my motivation to do better. I needed to achieve more for "the sake of exemplifying excellence." I had always wanted to be magnificent person in all of my endeavours, but oftens time I would just settle with the minimum "get by" requirements. This would haunt my senior experience, as I would apply to college right at the end of my Senior year. I had been too laxed and not a go getter like I should have been, but it seems even still my actions proved to give me a chance in life, by making it into DePual. I feel a renewed sense of accomplishment and strive to achieve. But if I had just done the simplest things such as applying when I had the chance, all would turn out fine. Always believe in your abilities.

maher

If I had the chance to go back to my high school days, I would definitely tell myself to work harder on my home work; take more advanced classes; and for sure participate in more extra curriculum activities. I would also get a part time job and start saving up for college and gain experience because the main thing you need in life is experience. I would work harder in school to get scholarships when i graduate from High School to have some money ready for college and study really hard to increase my knowledge in academics. Most importantly I will be active in my neighborhood and help out in my school in being more productive. If I could go back this is what I'll do to get me prepared for college.

charlie

If I could go back to my days as a high school senior, I would tell myself what college is really like. I would let myself know how much studying needs to be done and what kind of commitments need to be made in order to successfully make it through college. If I were able to better my study habits as a high school student, then many things in college would come a little bit easier for me now. But, most of all, I would tell myself how lucky I am to be able to go to college. If it were not for moving in with my grandparents the summer after my father died, I would most likely not even have earned a G.E.D. Going to college was not something that I had even imagined before that time, but now it is a reality and I have absolutely no regrets about where I am attending college or what I plan to do with my life. I cannot wait to finish college and get into the teaching world to be able to help children learn and help them achieve their goals in every way possibe.

Nikole

Don't base your college decision choice off of what your friends or girlfriends/boyfriends or parents want. Think about what YOU want- do you want to be in a sorority/fraturnity? Do you want to go football games? Do you want to be close to home? Do you want large classrooms or smaller ones? Do you want to have close connections with your professors? Do you want to live in a big city or a on a large campus in the middle of no where? Don't choose a college based off of what sounds and looks good, go deeper than that and make the choices that will ultimately make you happy. You're going to be spending the next four years wherever this decision takes you, so you want to make sure you know what you want. Make a list of what is important to you, what you're looking for in a college, and then narrow down your choices based off of this list. You may end up at a school where none of your friends went, but you will meet new people and end up having a great college expereince.

Nicole

The one thing I would want to tell myself is that college is so much harder than highschool! I would tell myself I need to be prepared because there is not the same responsibilities. You now not only need to take care of yourself and your school work.

Adam

I would tell myself to visit more schools before making a choice and ultimately choose a college where you are more likely to get a job straight out of school. A school that supports an internship program is a great choice. The big and popular schools sometimes are not the best, choose a school that is rated highly in the area that you want to study.

Nader

If I would to go back to my high school days, I would definitely work harder on my home work; take more advanced math classes; take more science classes; take programming classes and for sure participate in more extra curriculum activities. I would also get a part time job and start saving for college and gain experience because the main thing you need in life is experience. I would work harder in school to get scholarships ready for college and study really hard to increase my chances and opportunities. Something that I always wanted to fix and now it?s affecting me in college is taking the classes much more serious. Now I have to repeat one of my classes and its costing me even more money. I would tell myself your dream of becoming a game developer is coming, and if you want it, then work even harder now! That?s what I would tell myself.

Jessica

From an academic standpoint, I would tell myself to take advantage of the study skills that are emphasized, so when I attend college I am fully prepared. I would also tell myself that many people are going to try to pressure me to do things I may not want to do but to know who I am and what my priorities are in life to guide my decision making. Additionally, since diversity is such a strong charactersitic at DePaul University, I would tell myself to never change for other people and to be proud of who I am as a strong, intelligent, young woman.

Julius

I would tell myself to take full advantage of everything that college has to offer. Learn everything from the insightful professors, campus activities, and the professional programs and resources to make the most of your college experience as well as further prepare you for the life after collage.

Alisha

I would tell myself to work a little harder to find and complete scholarships. When I applied for college both DePaul and my school nominated me for scholarship and grant money. As a high school graduate I became complacent thinking that this "easy money " would be the norm for my college career. I would also tell myself not to take five classes freshman year. It is doable, but it put alot of undue stress on me for that quarter and my GPA ended up dropping .2 points. Do not spend school refunds! When DePaul refunds me it's because I accepted to much loan money, if I had given that money back to my Subsidized Lender that would be one less loan for me to pay when I leave college. Finally I knew from the beginning that I wanted to go abroad "somewhere", so my last piece of advice would be to save all my pennies from my jobs and my parents to pay for the the thousand dollar plan ticket and to have spending money during my program. That way I wouldn't have to worry about sucking my parents dry.

Abigail

In high school I would not have categorized myself as lost or confused. I had goals, which I met upon arriving at DePaul. I do wish that I would have explored my interests a little more, though. The primary purpose of college is, of course, education, but also to experiment with the person you hope to be. There are so many opportunities here at different ends of the spectrum. It's difficult to choose a club or service organization without knowing the right fit. I have a chance to make a difference in both DePaul's and Chicago's community, and I intend to dedicate myself entirely to something I feel strongly about. This ambition would be much easier to achieve if I had gotten to know myself better.

Lori

If I were to go back in time and give myself some advice about college life and the transition the main thing I would say is to get involved! Once I started to do that I felt like I knew more people The people that I met assisted me in whatever I needed such as what classes to take or what teachers were nice. Not only that, but they were interested in the same things I was and eventually we became great friends. Getting involved brought about new opportunities about other clubs and activities to do also. That lead me to learn more about the school and the world in general. I got the chance to travel and see new places. I got the ability to be a leader or using my strenghts like give information at meetings That made me feel like I mattered and I was helping out. Getting involved thought me how to manage my time wisely with school work and studying. It also gave me a break from them. Getting involved made me feel like a part of my school and it made me feel like I was a part of something.

Yuritzi

When I was a senior in high school, all I could think about was moving away from home. I wanted to make new friends and visit new places, but most of all I wanted to feel independent. I knew that the only way I could feel this way was by moving to another city. I chose Chicago because it was only two hours away from home. I also fell in love with the Lincoln Park campus, but little did I know how expensive that neighborhood was. DePaul University was my first choice and Loyola was my second. Either way I wanted to be in a place where my religion would still be a huge part of my life. If I could give myself advice two years ago, my life would be different. I could have saved a lot of money by attending a community college. Moving away from home did not prove that I was independent, because I still need help from my family today. It does not matter where I am in order to live by my faith. Last, everything comes with time and the more independent I want to be, the more responsibilities I will have.

Brittany

I would tell myself to completely let go of any fears that I might have in high school about college. These past four months, I have really found out who I am as a person. I would tell myself not to be afraid of the what future might hold. Let go of all the fear I might have had in high school about being who I really am. Be outgoing, be gregarious, and have the time of your life. Don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. You learn the most about yourself when you're in the a new and different situation. The transition might be frightening at times but it's all worth it in the end.

Jillian

I would tell myself to be more responsible. It took me about 6 years to get my Associate's Degree and I am just now beginning my Bachelor's at the age of 25. School should be taken seriously and not just something to do. It would have been a lot easier to have taken school seriously when I first started. I could have already had my Master's Degree, but instead I'm still 2 years away from a Bachelor's.

Maggie

My advice to myself, or to any senior about to go on to college, would have been to be selfish. Yes, your parents or you yourself are/is paying a lot of money for you to go whereever it is you are going, so enjoy it to the fullest! Go to any and all free campus activities. Spoil yourself every once and a while and fall in love with you. Hang out with people you would have never have been caught dead with in high school. Go ahead and drink and be stupid, but don't be reckless. Again, this is the time in your life when really, all you have to worry about is yourself...take advantage of that and live it up! If you take care of yourself, everything will fall into the place it is suppose to.

Mary

I would tell myself to "just go for it!". I was rather timid and stuck to the organization I knew. I really wish I would have discovered more groups and expanded my horizons. I was also invloved with community service but I would have liked to even be more invloved.

Brianne

I obtained my GED in 1998 while the rest of my class walked across the stage and got their high school diplomas. The ony emotion I feel is useless is regret, and I regret not finishing high school. The reason why I did not finish was due to the fact that I lived in a small town and there was a young man who was stalking me and making my life very difficult. I gave up, I let him win. If I knew then what I knew now I would have done what I needed to do to graduate, even if it meant moving away to another town to finish. I let him steal that away from me, and there's nothing I can do to change that. I'm glad I got back on the right path and am currently homlding a 4.0 GPA and beat the statistics. The only thing I can do now is share with others that, no matter what, don't let anyone take what's yours.

Camille

I would tell myself to expect the unexpected. Be prepared to be challenged in all areas of your life, academically, socially, spiritually. There will be people and experiences that will test you, make you rethink about what you thought you knew. You will be forced to think for yourself, and stand by what you believe in. You will discover things about yourself you didn't realize before, and even have skills you never knew existed. You will form an appreciation and new meaning for the word family and home. You will learn what a true friend is and how to be one. Your view on life will be constantly changing as you learn about others' perspective's and stories. You will see that the world is so much more bigger than you thought it was. And while this may all sound overwhleming and scary, if you face yourself and these things with courage, you will grow and mature, gaining something so much more valuable than a degree. You will have the knowledge and pride that you were able to conquer fears and prove that you are truly ready to go out into the world and keep on learning.

Andrea

I would tell myself not to get too involved right away. At the beginning of the school year there were so many groups I wanted to become involved with it became too much to keep up with and I had a hard time finding the balance between clubs, schoolwork, and a new social life. I wish I would've taken some time to get used to my new environment before diving in head-first. Now, I have a handle on my work-load for class and it is easier for me to be involved without over-committing.