Florida State University Top Questions

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

Megan

If I were to go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to not be so worried and anxious about the changes ahead. I would tell myself that everything will all work out, and that college is not as as scary as I thought it was. I would say that the people are all so nice and FSU makes you feel so at home. I would also tell myself not to worry so much about "fitting in" with a certain group or clique, because there are people and friends here for everyone.

Rachel

If I had a chance to sit down with myself three years ago when I got my acceptance letter to FSU, I'd tell myself, first of all, it's all going to be okay. College may seem like a big, new and scary world, but it is completely doable. I'd tell myself to start getting more organized and in a better routine. That way, when I got to college, I would be ready for the fast-paced, but amazing experience I was about to dive into. I'd remind myself that the opportunity that has been presented to me is a gift, and should be cherished to the fullest. This chance to further myself as a person is rare and something that I will carry with myself for the rest of my life. Therefore, the meaningless parties and other distractions are only temporary and do nothing in the end. So hard work and dedication are what really counts when you get up there. But make sure you work in some time to get out and enjoy the town for what it has to offer.

Jeremy

Jeremy Jeremy Jeremy... Oh the journey that awaits you: Senior year. Do not worry. It is not as bad as it sounds. Why, you ask me? Because I am here to guide you through the problems that might arise. First off, the procrastination and "senior-itis" that will surround you by your peers, it needs to be ignored. Do not conform to those around you. It is a trap only to see what you are made of. Put simply, if you conform you fail. Not fail in the sense of not graduating. But fail in the skills needed to develop into the student fit for college academics. Study. Study. And do a little more studying. Make it a habit, because the way things are graded in college is not like it is in high school. The only grades you get, are mostly from tests and essays. So pay attention in English IV. It will do you good for essays. Pay attention during lectures no matter how boring they may seem. Just make your attitude towards school, learning and knowledge positive and I assure you, things will run smoothly. Good luck and see you in the future.

Daniel

College is a fun and rewarding experience that you need to take advantage of while you can. Break out of your shell some and allow yourself to explore new activities and ways of thinking. Become who you really are through self reflection and exploration. Dedicate a good amount of time to studying, since you will end up doing Biology, and spend your free time enjoying good company and exposing yourself to new things. Oh and I almost forgot, park legally so you don't spend 200+ dollars in your freshman year on parking violations.

Kendra

Dear Kendra, I know the ambitious young lady you are, but don't be afraid to take a break, learn how to manage your time and stress levels now. Also choose a career because it's what you could see yourself doing if there was nothing left on this earth, do it because you are passionate about it not because your parents want you to or because it offers financial security. Most of all, you will lose some of your closest loved one's while you're away, don't forget to say I love you or ask for help when you can't. You will find yourself in extreme need of a family away from home, don't be so hesitant to open up to people. Although you may feel alone, God is always with you. There is no place that you can go, that God has not already visited; he alread paved a path just for you. As much as you love to be that hand, ear, and shoulder for everyone else, you are going to have to take some time to nurture yourself. No matter what you go through, thank the Lord because it could be worse.

Brittany

College is a life changing experience. You have so much to look forward to in life, and you need to make the most out of every opportunity you receive, starting with the ones you now have in high school. You attend one of the best schools in the nation, but you haven't yet realized how fortunate you are. Not only do you have the ability to receive college credit for the many courses offered in your high school, but you also have the chance to save hundreds, maybe even thousands of dollars that those courses will add up to when you attend a university. Your mother struggles to provide for her family because she doesn't have the education so readily available to the youth today. She tells you everyday that she wants a better life for her children; she doesn't want them to have the stress and worries that she constantly endures. Understand that it will be for your benefit to work hard now so you can play hard later. There is so much knowledge to attain, the only problem you should have is choosing what to learn first.

chevonne

D not wait until the last minute and start looking for colleges that you can afford as well as apply for many scholarships

Julie

Take it slow. Do not expect to adjust to things over night. Make time for studying and time for having fun. Talk to everyone. Meet people. Participate and go to as many events and seminars as you can. Make sure to meet with your professors so you get a chance to know them and they can get a chance to meet you. Do not spend all of your time studying! There is a time and place for everything. If you need help, ask for it! Don't be afraid to ask! Spend your money wisely! Do not go out to eat every night or go shoping for items you don't necessary need! Eat healthy and go to the gym! In order to study you have to keep yourself healthy! Overall, just enjoy your first semester of college and don't stress too much!

Jessica

I would tell my self to start collage and get a degree in cosmotolgy because of my artistic ablity and also because it would provide a better life for my son and i. That its hard to get a good job with out a degree, also that try to aim for something that i would love to do now instead of waiting so long.

Carolina

Carolina, before you go to college, I would like to suggest some great tips that will most definitely help you throughout your stay at any college or university. I am going to start off by telling you that high school is not the end of the world. Forget your expectations of partying every weekend and having the time of your life. If you thought that homework seemed endless in high school, you are mistaken. Reality check, college gives you a bundle of assignments that seem eternal. You are most definitely going to spend most of your nights studying and reading; in time the phrase “all-nighter” will become part of your frequent vocabulary. Be prepared to expect the unexpected; this may be positive or negative at times. You are most likely going to know more about your teacher’s personal life then the class itself. On the other hand, college is a great experience because you will meet people of all ages, nationalities, cultures, and ethnicities. Finally, my last tip to you is to enjoy college! The ride may seem bumpy but in the long run the road will eventually clear up and everything will smoothly take its right course.

Ashley

I would tell myself to join more clubs and activities, to try harder and to belive in myself. I would say that I did really well my senior year, but I could have done better. Study for an extra twenty minutes, read that chapter one more time, apply for one more scholarship. I would say, since you moved your senior year, try your hardest to shine above everyone else and prove to everyone who you are and what your capable of. Don't wait for the year to pass you by. Take your senior year, your new friends and teachers as an opportunity of a lifetime to truly succeed. With a graduating class of 40, proving yourself should have been easy. Everything you do now will certaintly pay off once you arrive at college, at Florida State University. Good luck, Ash, you're going to love it!

Sarah

GET OUTSIDE! Have fun! The classes are important, but you're smart and will do well. Quit procrastinating and use your time to enjoy yourself and make new friends. Enjoy the time you have with your friends because they are there to support you if you ever need anything and they are there to make college fun. Assume the best of the college experience and go out to every event you can. Netflix is not the best idea because you live in a beautiful area and should take advantage of it.

Zachary

I would tell myself to make sure to focus on school work and to explore all aspects of academic life to make sure I know what I want to do with my life.

Alek

If I could back to my high school senior year, I would inform me to be well prepared and stud hard. Don't give up and never quite. Learn how to study better and harder with a variety of tools such as a notecard and tutors. Make sure that you pass your classes with a grade higher than a C, so you can continue to the next class. Try not to worry about being perfect and trying to make surw that you do things to a T because your going to have to learn how to balance your work and school. Try to write down as many notes as possible and do not be afraid to ask questions because the more you ask the more you learn.

Patricia

I would advise myself to take any measure possible to be financially ready for this school. Most people who go here are not your genius children; they are the very comfortable/very spoiled children of well off parents. They are very different from me in that college is necessary and vital to me, and to them it is way more laid back because they have a financially-supportive background to fall back on. However, since I go here for music therapy, I would tell myself to stay strong, because I have faith that this wonderful, life changing and world-changing major is worth the struggle.

Jennifer

I wish I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior. If only I could, my how my life would be different. First and foremost, I would tell myself not to drop out of college. I took a five year hiatus from college and that was a mistake that I greatly regret. I would tell myself not to take college lightly, attend every class, study hard, and do the best that you can. My poor decision to not finish college the first time has limited my career. I would tell myself how difficult it is to go back to school. I would explain how I now work full-time and attend school full-time and how I have such little free time anymore. I would tell myself, “As much as you may think otherwise now, school is more important than a social life. Stay in college. Don’t drop out. Otherwise, it will be much harder on your second attempt”. Perhaps if I had known all this then, I would be an engineer or a mathematician instead of an insurance underwriter. My life would definitely be very different.

Chelsea

If i could go back to High school I would have advised myself to take more AP classes that way I could have came in with more credits. Coming in with a high number of credits could have allowed me to graduate a year early or take a less intense semester toward the completion of my degree. Also, I would asdvise myself to stay on track of deadlines because they come up sooner than you think and you will not be reminded over and over. In high school teachers are on a much more personal level than a college professor so that is defiitely something to be aware of.

Brittany

Get involved. It will eat up a lot of your time, but that's why you are in college; to be busy, to have fun. It's a great way to meet people with the same interests as you and a great resume builder. Also, start saving early because when you graduate, you will be broke.

Carol

I would advise myself to sell my previous books and get a job to prepare me for organizing my time. Time and money are the scarcest things in college life, so being able to master it then, would put me in a better position today. With the money saved could cover excess tuition, housing, or food, but it could also be a down payment for a study abroad program, club, or athletic team. In college, time must be spent wisely, so you will be well-prepared for exams, quizzes, and time be with friends. You can always do more. By doing only the minimum sets the bar low for yourself, try to exceed expectations and adventure out with people. Go new places and do a variety of activities with kids you do and don't know. If something is at all interesting, you can say that you st least tried it once. Don't worry there are other students out there who are not concerned with drinking and partying every night, you just need to find them. Oh, and don't forget to go to all that you commit to, every club and program. Make a lot of friends.

Shelby

I would advise myself to look at all scholarship/grant oppurtunities and to approach my guidance counselor about it. I would also try to spend more time with my advisors my freshman year. Furthermore, warn not to buy books ahead of time and to not buy a credit card. Also, I'd warn to figure out the bus system because parking is insanely difficult. Finally, I'd advise to always give yourself enough time to study because cramming at the last minute almost never works and hinders any learning you could actually be doing.

Shira

Conforming to the "social norm" is my biggest regret in choosing a college. At the time, I felt secure when deciding on a big, traditional state university. It seemed to be everyone's greatest desire and I thought it would bring me pleasure and happiness as well. I wish I had listened to my gut feeling, which was that I was not cut out for this type of life style. I wasn't raised to depend on alcohol for fun, and I certainly don't need a group of bratty sorority girls' approval to tell me that I "fit in". Aside from that, I would have hugely benefited from knowing that these classes will not help me in the future. I'm constantly being told that I'm "living the dream" and I know I am, but I'm not living MY dream. I have finally decided to transfer to a smaller school that specializes in my major. The opportunities waiting for me there are endless. Money is the only thing standing in the way and I sincerely pray that I am considered to receive this award so that I can finally live a life that will better my future.

Danielle

There's a proverb that says "If we are facing in the right direction, all we have to do is keep walking." As a high school graduate, I assumed picking my school, major, and career were all things that I needed to do immediately and needed to be sure about. What I learned in college was to take every oppotunity given to me, to ask for help when I needed it, and to put my all in to everything I do. When I did that, I naturally gravitated towards the right classes, professors and ultimately major and career path for me. Now, I'm pursuing a Ph.D. at the number one institution in my field (which I realized I loved half-way through my undergraduate career), which just so happens to also be my undergraduate alma mater (which wasn't my first choice school). My college experience demonstrates that when your intent on succeeding, you will... even if you haven't figured out your path yet.

Carly

Do not rush into a decision regarding your career. Too many people rush into making a decision about what they want to do for the rest of their life before really knowing what the career involves. There is no shame in not knowing what you want to do right out of high school. Take a few college classes that intrest you and then see where you go from there. Enjoy yourself and make new friends. This will be a time in your life that you will remember forever!

renu

Stay focused on your studies...it's easy to get distracted by the freedom one experiences in college.Get a degree in a technical or mathematics-related field. Work after getting a Bachelors degree so can get real-life experience. Then go back and get a Masters degree to build on your technical Bachelors degree.

Christian

La transicion de escuela superior a la vida universitaria fue un poco dificil debido a la falta de ayuda economica y la interaccion con los profesores. La vida universitaria supone nuevos retos y ya no dependes tanto de una supervision continua. Lo que me gusta de la vida universitaria es la variedad educativa y la oportunidad de comenzar en la concentracion.

Tia

I would tell my high school senior self to save as much money for college as possible and that you can never be too prepared. She would be informed of the many different career opportunities college offers, and to really think hard about deciding her major before jumping into something too quickly. I would provide her with information on the necessary tools to graduate, these tools being more than just text books, gas, money for tuition, and supplies. She would ask me what other tools could there be besides that? To which I would respond with "mental tools". These mental tools being determination, drive, confidence, and planning ahead. All of which create a better chance at succeeding in college and life. She would be informed of the ups and downs college offers, and how everyone hits a bad point, but if she sticks to her guns and never gives up hope, success is envitable. Lastly, I would let her know that her mother will become fatally ill, and she carries the opportunity and burden to be the first of her siblings to graduate college, and make her mother proud before she leaves this world.

Miikael

To read through all the material in a given a class not just the assigned pages. Be always on time or even early and make sure that your teacher knows you personally. Start thinknig about what all you like to do and if you could see yourself doing it as a work and not just for fun. Visit schools you're interested of and talk to current or former students to find out about how they experienced day to day life as a student. Do more than the minimum requirements and help out your friends that need help.

Steven

Oh, if we could just go back in time... I would give myself all the advice I could about my college experiences thus far. First off, I would tell myself to prepare for the worst and the unexpected. I believe that this is a general rule for life and it gets more difficult as you live on, as life's surprises are most unexpected. Learning how to handle challenges and obstacles is really something you can't thoroughly prepare for. Life as a high school student is fairly easy, and making the transition to a University can be difficult and trying. I would warn myself about how easy it is to succumb to lazyness. I would tell myself to make better choices and become more responsible earlier on. I would also definitley stress the importance of time management and organizational skills as they will surely make your life much easier. As I reflect on where I w as then and contrast with where I am now, I can honestly say that I've learned and grown a great deal over the years. There would be so much we would talk about.

Savannah

Focus on school!

Jamie

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would remind myself to stay true to who you are. People loe you and support you and in those times of stress and woe they will be there for you. Remember to not lose touch with who you are and to not limit yourself. I would also remind myself to go out and make as many friends as possible and try not to let myself get completely involved with school and forget to let myself have some time to "play". Also, that people in life will always suprise you and that life itself will often surprise you. Trust your gut and heart, and dont let people walk all over you, if it seems wrong, it probably is. Also, I would remind myself that time heals all and when I need it the most to talk to those that give you the best love and support. Overall, I'd remind myself to not be so nervous and to just enjoy the roller coaster I'm about to board.

Jordan

I would recommend to myself that I focus more on developing my shading skills and building my discipline. My study habits were non-existant when I began college and they were only created though hard work during all night study session for Gen. Chem. 1. If I had devoted a little more free time in high school to drawing regularly and studying on a schedule, I would have been significantly more prepared for my first year. Thankfully I can pride myself on my ability to adapt, my first year went quite smoothly for the most part.

Evan

Take every chance anyone ever hands you. You never know what opportunity might come your way. Know that your first love might not be your last, and to place equal emphasis on every aspect of your life. Education is great and will get you far, but have fun too. Savor every single moment, and life is too short to ever be unhappy - find your happiness, grab on, and hold on for the ride, because it can only get better.

Ashton

Don't worry so much, it's going to be fine. You're going to make great friends and things are going to be great. Overall, your classes are going to be awesome, and you're going to have some really great teachers and classmates. Don't stress so much about school work. Sometimes you can put it off a little longer to do something fun with your friends. But don't blow it off completely. You're smart. Just chill out. You know how to make good decisions and choices, don't second guess yourself. FSU is the place for you, and it's going to be amazing.

Emily

First off, I would want to go back to myself as a high school sophomore because that's when the fun began. I would tell myself to live my life the way I wanted to instead of what everyone else wanted. I would tell myself to run away from the people i befriended...and fast! I would of taken that cigarette right out of my hand, and that darn credit card I used far too much. I would suggest remaining true to myself and stop being so mean to people just to prove a point. I would of spent more time with my family than my party friends. Being able to prioritize at a young age would make this transition to a university so much easier! Your habits like to repeat themselves and mine aren't worth repeating, so this whole learning to discipline myself can be quite demanding on my fun time. Since that's all I was ever concerned with. If only I didn't have such a hard head as a teenager I might of actually listened.

Alexander

I would tell myself to relax and enjoy life. Sometimes all we're concerned about is wanting to grow up, when instead we should be enjoying the different stages of our life. I would remind myself how short four years of high school really is and to use this time to build the bond with my family members.

mu-tor

Knowing what I know now about college life and making the transition. The advice that I would give my highschool senior self is first to take studying for the S.A.T's seriously because it could really help you get into a great school. I would suggest finding out all I can about financial aid to help me in financing my education. Whether that's scholarships, loans, or grants. I would tell myself to live on the dorms because that offers you the best experience to be immersed in college life, also join as many clubs and activities as possible. These steps help you to transition the quickest. I would tell myself to always take studying as primary and partying secondary because good grades are paramount. If you aren't sexually active I would tell you to wait until your married because it is safer. If you are sexually active I would tell you to use protection...both participants! I know many friends who have had children or contracted diseases that could have been avoided like H.I.V, Herpes, H.P.V etc. The college age demographic has the highest S.T.D rating out there. Good luck!

Shelly

Knowing what I know now I would tell myself to not stress out so much. I would also tell myself to practice studying for and taking tests. I would also tell myself to pack my own lunch and eat more healthy.

Francesca

Rewind two years, and I would knock it into my head that my options are endless! My biggest regret thus far is not getting more invloved; I had a plethora of opportunites at my fingertips and I let most of them go. So I would tell myself to get over my fears, I know easier said then done- but trust me it will be worth it, and to go talk to the various clubs, go talk to the faculty members, ask all those burning questions. No one knows it all, and I know you do not want to admit that you are in deep water- but you are. Burst out of that comfort zone; apply for housing right away, apply for the school newspaper, banish the fear of failure. So you are not positive what you want to major in, guzzle up all the new aspects of your life then to better understand what makes you passionate. And I know its a cliche to tell someone this, but its a cliche for a reason, do not take all these opportunities for granted, smile that you have them and don't you dare let them go again!

Amanda

Do not try to change yourself once you get to college. By being yourself, it is easier to get in involved with campus activies that are true to what you love and you will find life long friends based on your values and aspirations. It is important to stand for what you believe and do not give up on school. Stay motivated and do not let small things get in the way of your studies. You are here to learn a lot and you will benefit greatly from everything you learn from the books and about yourself while living away from home. Enjoy it while you can!

Cassandra

Do what you want to do. Don't just do what you think other people want you to do. The best advice is "Do what you love and you'll never work a day in your life." It took me a few years to figure this out and it's the most important thing I've learned so far. Just don't let other people cloud your judgment of what you want to do with your life.

Ashley

If I could go back and talk to my self about college I would help myself become alot more prepared .First I would have to really think about what I wanted form college. For example what major I'd choose, location, diversity, and population. This way I'd have a direction and it would narrow my college search. Next I would look up colleges based on these critiors. After I pick a few, vist them to get a feel of campus life. This way I could see if the collge and its surrounding seem right for me. Then I would pick which college I'm instrested in and look up deadlines and begin applying!

Dennice

Take more AP science classes and prepare yourself better for being in situations where you aren't already really comfortable with the individuals surrounding you.

Kelly

As a senior in high school I was so focused on the future and my grades that would get me into college. I was always stressing out about silly little things. Knowing what I now know I would tell my 18 year old self to take a deep breath and enjoy the moment. I was always so focused on the future that I never gave myself time to see the present. College is an amazing experience and I would tell myself that you will forget all the bad test grades, the long study sessions, and the difficult professors. I would tell myself to get more involved in campus life and make new friends because those are the memories you will keep forever. Of course studying is important, but I would remind myself that it is just a fraction of the time you spend while at school. If I could have told myself as a senior not to worry because at the end of 4 years I will have made good grades, graduated at the top of my class, and the future was still right where it always was.

Alisha

I would tell myself not to live with strangers, ever. I would also tell myself to try not to be lazy and to be more assertive about getting A's. I would tell myself to participate in more organizations and volunteer work as well.

Mary

Don't be afraid to join clubs and get involved. If you are interested in something, go out and grab the opportunity. You're going to do it later anyways, and regret that you missed out on meeting the great people you've met earlier. No one is going to hand your life to you on a silver platter- it is your job to make things happen. Also, don't be afraid to be yourself. People will love you just the way you are, and there is no need to try to present yourself in ways that don't come naturally to you. The more forward you are with yourself, you more people will accept your own identity. Making yourself open to people will be frightening at first, but completely worth it in the end. Never forget to have fun, even during the most stressful times! These are going to be some of the best years of your life, so relish them!

Jamie

The advice that I would give myself if I could go back in time as a high school senior would be to go ahead and go to college and get my degree, instead of waiting ten years later to pursue my college education. It would have been so much easier to do it right out of high school instead of letting my brain rest for ten years.

Lauren

The best token of advice I would be able to offer myself, or anyone else for that matter, would be to relax! While college can be stressful, and certainly poses a challenge at times, it is also important to step back every once in a while, take a deep breath, and accept that everything will likely be okay. Starting out at a school where I didn't know anyone was tough for me: growing up I always kept the same close friends and was not used to branching out. I was a bit shell-shocked when I arrived from my small town to a "big city" (as I considered it) full of unfamiliar faces. However, as time went on I was able to become more and more comfortable, and now I can honestly say that I'm the most confident and at ease I have ever been. The thing to remember about college is that, while it is a time for studying, it is also a time to relax and have fun. My neurotic, nervous high school self would have been more prepared had I known then what I do now. Bottom line: it's college, have fun!

Nadia

I would tell my high school self to start learning how to budget my money and how to cook. In college, I was free to do whatever I wanted. In the beginning I got a little crazy with the spending because I wasn't keeping track of my expenses. I would tell my high school self to keep a careful log of expenses for the month and only spend money on what I really needed. I would also tell myself to start cooking. I didn't have a meal plan in college because it was too expensive. I had never done grocery shopping before and when I went to the store, I was completely overwhelmed and ended up buying a lot of junk. If I knew how to cook some simple dishes, I would have been able to prepare a nice meal for dinner instead of popcorn or a bag of chips.

Kaylha

I would tell myself that starting to prepare for college early and looking for scholarships is so much more important than I think. I need to have good relationships with my counselors and teachers so they can give me good references and get involved in as many clubs in school as I can and to become an active member in them as well. Even though I am shy, I need to try and have at least one or maybe even two leadership positions at school. I would also make sure that I applied to as many scholarship opportunities as I can because I would later seriously face the consequences, even though it may not seem like it at the time. I should take school more seriously and focus on making sure I appear as a well-rounded individual to universities so that I could have the option to go to any university I would like. Lastly, I would advise myself to take all those AP courses I never wanted to take because it will make studying in college so much easier if I have some kind of background on the subject.

Amanda

High school isn't all fun and games, don't throw away oppurtunities to advance while it is a bit easier.