George Fox University Top Questions

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

Emily

Don't be so worried, I know it's scary transitioning from homeschooling to a public college, but it's hardly any different from the coops you've done before.

justin

Start studying while in high school so it is easier once in college. Buy all of the books you need as soon as possible so you can start reading them to give yourself an advantage in the class. Also don't be afraid to talk to proffesors as soon as you dont understand something. Make freinds with the smartest people in your class so you can study with them and they are more likely to help you. If social media becomes a distraction delete the accounts neeeded to eliminate the distraction.

Peter

I would inform myself to create better study habits, go to community college for two years, and make sure all the classes I take are transferable to any college. This would allow me time to become accustomed to college life, save a few thousand dollars and keep me from taking the same classes over.

Victoria

Never be afraid to fail. Fear of failure can hold you back more than any other insecurity. You will fail, but through these failures you will grow stronger and achieve greater successes than you could imagine. With this knowledge, be encouraged to go out and try new things, embrace new adventures whole-heartedly, don't hold anything back. Your courage will pay off. If you do succeed, be proud of your hard work. If you fail, still be proud of your hard work, hold your head high and learn from your mistakes. Without failure and adversity you won't grow in character or gain the strength you will need for future. So don't be ashamed when you fall short of your goals, but instead take pride in the knowledge you've gained that will help you learn the secrets to future success.

Anh

I was homeschooled oversees before returning to USA and entering college. If I could go back, I would tell my high school senior self to: "Breathe, and take baby steps! It will start out rough. You will get a headache, experience an emotional roller coaster, and maybe even vomit. Just go with the flow, check the items off the list: move in, smile and wave, attend the all freshman events, and get lost around campus for hours. Slowly, you'll get the hang of it, the butterflies will go away. You'll love the adventure so much that you won't even miss your families and friends. Initiate conversations and consciously spend more time with the people you see often around campus, including your floormates. Soon, you won't even need to say 'Excuse me' whenever you rip out a fart. Devising a four-year plan? Finding a part-time job? Managing bank accounts? Don't fret! Ask lots and lots of questions (but try not to make too much mistakes, life doesn't come with an undo button) Finally, relax and conquer college one day at a time!"

Jennifer

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would make sure to get in to full detail about college life. I would tell myself things like actually save my money and make sure to sign up for many scholarships before starting school that way I wouldnt have to struggle as much. I would make sure to graduate high school with a strong and high GPA and make sure all my classes are in good shape. I would also tell myself to be more confident and not be shy to meet new people and make sure I am comfortable around my peers. I would also make sure to have a very good relationship with my teachers and other workers at the school like the dean and financial aid services.

Denny

Make an effort to get to know a lot of people. Quality relationships are extremely important, but it's also good to know a large quantity of people.

Julia

If I could go back in time and talk to my high school senior self I would advice her to enjoy the ride. College is a great experience where not only you learn for your decided career but you gain experiences by communicating and coexisting with your classmates and professors . I would tell myself not to worry. It is a big change, but making your own decisions will make you grow as a person. A life as a college student brings many responsanilities, each individual is in charge of their own actions. You have to start with a set mind, think what you want to study. Decide what career that you want to pursue is the first and most important things you have to do. Do not wait until the last minute. Get ready and enjoy the ride.

Hilary

I would tell myself to prepare financially for college. I would tell myself to start saving up now to pay for housing and meal plan. I would also tell myself to get suitcases and make sure I have everything I need before leaving for an out of state school.

Amanda

Be open to change. Choosing a college is not a final decision. Due to changes in finances or class availability or even the weather, you can transfer to a new college or take a break for a little while.

Samantha

Breath. It's going to be stressful, and a whole new experience, but it's going to be worth it. Make new friends, and don't be afraid to open up. College may seem scary, but it's a chance for a new life and a new begining. Don't waste your time making sure you won't get hurt. Now is the time to take chances, and live your life to the fullest.

Leah

Dear HS Senior Leah, Right now, you're stressing out: you have too much to do and little time to do it. Well, take a break. Take one day off, re-center yourself, and remember: You cannot do everything at once. In fact, this will lead you to crash and burn. You are allowed to say "no" every once in a while. You are allowed to ask your teachers for help. You are allowed to have fun! Do not worry about piling up an impressive resume. Instead, seek knowledge for the love of knowledge. Don't fret too much about how you will make friends in college; all freshmen will be looking for friends, so you'll find that you're really not alone. Don't be shy once you make it to college. Go ahead, try new things. Fail, learn, then try again. Ask as many questions as you can, even if you think they are stupid. Join clubs and explore different worldviews. Most importantly, be open. You will change drastically in college as you are embarking on a journey of self-discovery. So don't let the fear of the unknown stop you from exploring. Have fun!

Emily

It's easy to be lazy. When late nights and early mornings toss you into a weary, monotonous, tiring routine, don't slack off in class. Every second spent is a second filled with things to learn. Utilize as much of your time as possible by meeting new people and encouraging others in what they do. Never be afraid to laugh at what you think is funny, even if it's stupid or "uncool." Be weird in public, because weird is normal and normal is weird. College is a completely new beginning. Life will be filled with juggling classes, homework, jobs, and staying connected with friends and family at home, but all it takes is a bit of diligence and the ability to look at life with the right perspective. Motivation and determination are constantly needed to work towards excellence. In college, every moment in class is spent taking notes and listening intently; it's important to practice now, in high school, and make the transition to college easier. Live with the intent to make a positive difference, and shoot for the stars even when it seems you can barely touch the clouds.

Bailee

You're going to feel alone. You're going to feel like you're the only one trying desperately to fit in, to be perfect, to make friends, and be accepted. It's going to be messy. You're going to learn that chemistry is REALLY hard, and that it is going to be the first class that you actually have to try in. You're going to cry, a lot, probably more than all of your high school years combined. You're going to be sleep deprived as you try to balance all of your classes and friends. You are going to realize that not everyone is a nursing major and that some people will have A LOT more free time than you. You're going to binge watch a lot of Grey's Anatomy. You are going become dependent on coffee. You're gonna gain some weight. So what? This year is gonna be brutal, but it's also gonna be SO worth it. So take a deep breath, relax, keep both hands and feet inside the vehicle at all times, and prepare yourself for the life changing, mindblowing, relationship building ride they call Freshman Year.

Samantha

Make sure you take time for yourself, and learn about time management, and don't get overwhelmed. College is such a big transition, so learn about that, and go out and talk to people, and push yourself out of your comfort zone.

Grace

Learn to budget well, and save every last dollar while you can! Do not be afraid to start conversations with strangers; Some of the most interesting people are sitting right across from you at a coffee shop. Finally, do not be stuck on one career or one major. There are so many exciting opportunities, and you need to take them when they are offered to you!

Jerika

Take time discover who you are, do what is important to you. Be who you want to be, and most important, when other people tell you what to do, do what you know is right, because you will make the right choices, and you will do the right things. Be brave, be bold, and dare to be everything you want to be.

Aaron

Don't worry too much about your life being radically different once you get to college. It is different, but you'll adapt to the day-to-day tasks fairly easily Make sure you have everything in order, though. You'll get more freedom, but you also have to self-discipline more, because people will not hold your hand as much. You have to start doing things for yourself. Don't feel too bad if you're not sure what you're doing, because that's okay, you're not supposed to just magically know how to do this adult stuff. You have to ask and research like everyone else.

Andrea

DON'T WAIT! Even if you want to go with the father of your daughter in life (however temporary that may be) DON'T drop out of college! Find SOME WAY to make it work so that your mom can see you graduate with a degree before she passes on suddenly in 2010.

Steffanie

I would tell myself to apply everywhere because you should not limit your options based on what you think you want out of a school. Also, remember that you will have to pay your loans someday so do not rule out living at home just because you want to go somewhere new.

Philip

Your college career is YOUR college career. Your university experience is what you make of it. No matter where you go. Your degree comes to you as a result of your efforts. Its possible to almost skate through high school and find yourself graduated. College is way more interactive than this. If you pour in poor work, you get poor grades. I have taken semesters lacking ANY extra credit options. You get out what you put in. Be careful about what decisions you let others make for you, even if they are your parents, because the results will be left in YOUR lap.

Kimberly

The first thing I would tell myself is to get a job and really get going on the scholarships. You'll regret it later if you don't. I would also tell myself that it's ok to not know exactly what you want to do after you graduate. It will get discouraging at times, but you'll get through it. Just keep exploring all of your options and do your research. Finally, I would tell myself to make an effort to get to know people more than just the first few weeks of school. Have roomie dates and movie nights. Put yourself out there. Don't always wait to be talked to -- make an effort and talk to someone else first. Just be friendly, and be a good friend.

Kayla

I feel very fortunate to attend a small college. This has given me an opportunity to participate in a small classroom setting as well as have more opportunities for hands on experiences in lab settings. It has also given me the opportunity to get to know my professors on a more personal level, which has made it easier to ask questions and therefore has strengthened my knowledge. I think attending a small school has it disadvantages, but I feel as though the opportunity to learn is far greater an advantage than all the other opportunities a larger college might have to offer. My college experience has also given me the opportunity to grow as an individual. I know longer have my family and security of home to fall back on. Although these lessons are some times a challenge they are also exciting. Like all life challenges, I continue to learn and grow and look forward to serving other's as a nurse when I graduate.

Alex

I have grown up a lot in the past two years that I have been in college. In high school, I never needed to study, because the information came natural to me. In my freshman year of college, I realized the same methods would not work. I had to learn how to balance school, and work. Now that I am approaching the end of my sophmore year, I have learned the delicate balance of work and play. I have improved my grades, and social life. College has been an irreplacable experience so far, and has taught me not only scholarly information, but has led me down the path to finding out who I trully am. College teaches it's students priceless lessons about life, and how to deal with problems. Most of what you encounter in college can be applied to the world that awaits you when you gradute. I have learned countless life skills that will help me wherever I end up after college. I am currently beginning the journey to transfer to a four-year university, and look forward to the new experiences that lie ahead. I am certain that I have the foundation that I need.

Carla

I start going to school on January 18, 2011. I am very excited and looking forward in succeeding in being a meical assistant. I believe its going to be worth everything to go into college and stuying thhis career. I hope i get enough help, financially, to complete this goal in becoming a medical assistant.

Melissa

Academically, my college experience has been everything I expected: the ideal environment to learn the skills relevant and necessary for success in the Computer Science industry. Perhaps even more valuable than the knowledge I've gained attending classes are the more unexpected ways the George Fox community has changed me. Whenever I arrive on campus after spending a break at home I'm filled with an overwhelming sense of peace. I am surrounded by students and faculty who continually live out their faith through action--loving and serving others wherever there is need--and who support and encourage me to develop my talents and share them with the world. Before college I lived in an area known for its violence, gangs and drug culture. Although I was not involved in any of those, the atmosphere was disheartening. In sharp contrast to the community around my home, my college peers have given me hope and fresh perspectives on life while enabling me to overcome deep-rooted fears. I am grateful that my attendence has offered me genuine healing in addition to knowledge, for what good is a scholar who is too broken and fearful to make a difference in the world?

Victoria

How to take responsibility. Whether I'm late to class, or late to meeting my friends at The Bon, I have to apologize and move on. If I make a loud noise while my roommate is sleeping or don't clean my side of the room for a week I have to tell her I'm sorry and make up for it. And on the nights when I'm exhausted and putting of that 8-page paper, I'm going to be taking my lumps at 2 am, while I'm swallowing whole cups of caffeine just trying to make sense of the notes I've been taking. In college, though, taking responsibility isn't all bad. We're all here because we got good grades in high school and have goals for the nest phase of our lives. So, now we get to take the consequences for that; good ones. That means, laughing until our stomach hurts, late night Taco Bell runs, learning things we never thought about, and living in rooms the size of a closet completely loving it. The balance with responsibility is evident here, and the lessons I've learned from it is invaluable.

Kasey

Before I came to college, I couldn't order in a restaurant because I was so shy. Stepping out of my comfort zone and coming to George Fox has taught me how to be brave, build relationships and simply find out who I am, and who I have the capability to be.

Christopher

I have learner to better understand people and not judge them by their outword appearance. With a Management degree I have had the opportunity to advance myself through my current company then if I did not have my degree. The only thing that I wish I did different was that I wished I completed the program earlier.

Amanda

I have gotten many important qualities out of my college experience. In high school, I was always an average student. It never used to bother me, but now that I am in college, being an average student and getting average grades doesn't reflect who I really am as a person. I am a hard worker, a respectable person, and a great listener; but these qualities were not shown through my school efforts as much as they should have been. I knew that I was better than that, and that's why I knew I had to make a change that would help me to achieve my personal goals. Not only have my teachers inspired me, but my peers have been a tremendous influence on me as well. I am thankful that they helped me open my eyes to the potential that is in me. I have come to realize that college is such an important learning experience and it is an important step towards my future.

Ben

I have gained experiences that have shaped the way I relate to people. College life is full of poeple and the better you are at relating to others, the better you understand the world. I am no longer stuck within my own box but rather have been submersed in the different cultures and personalities here on Campus. Acceptance and the appreciation of the beauty of others have been the two top things I have learned throught this experience. This has positivly set me up for the "real" world. There is no place or job where it will be just about one group of poeple. My college experience has been training me how to effectively communicate and colaborate with other poeple. Learning how to do this early on in life will save you alot of hardships and trails in the future. I really appreciate the opportunity to be exposed to these diiferent experiences which are shaping the way I think and care about others. Positivley.

Bethany

Where to start with what i have gotten out of college. Well everyone hears it has made me grow up and teach me to live on their own. But not for me it showed be how much i still need family and how much family means to you. The big thing that I gotten out of college was the time to grow in the Lord Jesus Christ. I have a relationship know that I have seen others have and I alway wanted. So did I grow, yes i did but i not into a grown up, i am still a baby and still my mommy. College has taught me to do things on my own and how to plan out time so that I do have time for fun and still be able to play softball and get my school work done to keep my grades up. I don't think you can tell others what college has done for you, the best way to tell is to just see what it has done in your life with their own eyes. Just have them watch you and they will see that something has change.

heather

College provides me with the excitement to be able to learn new things, and to move forward to attend UCLA as a design and media arts undergraduate. College is allowing me to live my dream of finishing college, and taking what I have, and will learn in the future years, and turn it into a career. Colllege will give me the gift of independence, it will empower me as I earn my own money to create a life for myself. College is so valuable because not only are you gifted an opportunity to take care of yourself, but you'll also get to do something you enjoy. College has also kept my life structured, which I need to stay focused, and lifts me up with an identity. I'm not just a disabled young woman with Bipolar, I'm a student who will soon thrive in the professional world with a sense of accomplishment knowing I have my degree and more importantly the knowledge that will open invaluable doors for me.

Chase

In college, I took the pieces of my childhood and began to form a clear picture. In college, I discovered passions burning inside me where before there had been dry kindling. In college, I formed meaningful friendships with men and women I respect and admire. In college, I proposed to my wife. In college, I was challenged to re-examin my preconceptions. In college, I experienced the rewards of hard work. In college, I learned something new every day. In college, I enjoyed my independence. In college, I began my adult life.

Michael

College has brought a whole new meaning to my schooling. I had a rough couple years and didnt realize how important school really was until i began attending Yavapai College in Prescott, AZ. I now realize how important it is to have a degree if you want to be succesful in life. Knowing that all the work and effort I put into my nursing major will pay off with a reliable jobs that include full benefits. Its a concept I couldnt tackle while I was not attending school. I now enjoy school so much and can only look forward to the benefits a degree will give me.

Justin

I've obtained from my college experience an increase in confidence and maturity as an adult. During orientation a man had said that there are only two ways for an adolescent or teenager to really become an adult and that is through the military and or college. I couldn't have agreed more because I was transferring from a community college that I attended for two years and already I had changed for the better and received a great education. It was valuable to attend and live on Fox campus for only one semester because I had gained an increase in confidence and received one hell of an education. I have to hand it to my anatomy and physiology professor Kathy Weiss who I recommend to any pre-nursing student looking for the best instructor who teaches the human body. Living on campus resulted in me learning and experiencing things that I thought I'd never experience and it changed me for the better. I learned what I wanted to be known and perceived as by others and I gained values and morals that I don't think I could have gained anywhere else.

Aimee

I have gotten so much out of my college experience. I have learned how to become independent, make wise choices, advocate for myself, balance time, and grow as a leader. Because of my positive experience thus far, I plan to be an RA (Residence Assistant) next year and continue to learn and grow. Attending this university has shown me how to work hard, yet at the same time depend on the Lord for the uncertainty of my future. Going to college is such a valuable opportunity. It was hard for my family to make it possible for me to attend this school and I had to work very hard, but through it all it has showed me the importance of an education and the true value of working for such an important goal. It is difficult to get by in this country without an adequate education and I have learned all of this and more through attending George Fox University.

Preston

If I could go back in time four years and talk to myself as a high school senior I would encourage myself academically, commend myself for the great relationships I would develop, and tell myself to be strong in financial hardships.When I was a senior in high school I was afraid I wasn't smart enough to attend college. Going back in time I would tell myself how I almost earned a 4.0 my first semester, and how I would make the Dean's List and would earn an academic scholarship each year by working hard. Most importantly though, I would tell myself that I'm not, and never was, stupid.I would laugh and tell myself that I'm going to meet some of the nicest and most kind-hearted people on earth, and that mass popularity isn't nearly as important as a handful of good, close friends.I would advise myself not to become angry or jaded by a lack of funds, and not to be stressed out about it because over time and through hard work things will work out. Lastly I would tell myself to work hard and enjoy the wonderful college experience!

Laura

Don't worry so much! You're stuck between feeling like a child and adult right now, and you'll keep feeling that way for a long time. Know that college is about having fun, but also maturing as a person. It's about learning how to live in the world without losing your sense of self and your sense of humor. You will learn a lot of information, do a lot of homework, meet a lot of lifelong friends, have a lot of fun, eat a lot of deliciously unhealthy food, experience a lot of stress, and lose a lot of sleep. Contrary to popular belief, you will not love every minute of it, but you will love the overall experience of being here. College is a place to learn how to make your own way away from your parents and continue to learn how to be a contributing and fulfilled member of society. Take classes in subjects you've never had before. Join causes you didn't know existed before. Don't be afraid that it will mess up your life plan -- that might just be the best thing that could happen.

Jonetta

Make sure you start your first year taking a variety of classes, don't limit yourself to a certain career path. This is the time in life to explore what matters to you as a separate being from your family. Don't be afraid to make friends with people who are different from you. It helps us see the world with a broader perspective. If your school is near your home, try to stay for most of the weekends. This is when relationships are built, and relationships greatly add to the quality of life. Friendships can make the entire difference between liking or dis-liking school. Do not be afraid to approach professors and ask for help. Professors are great resources for help, letters of recommendation, and connecting you to professional resources. Don't do anything just half-way. Give everything your best. Get involved in school activies right away. Remember that you aren't going to school just for you. It is largely for you, but also for your family, your community and to better society. You are important and you can make a difference. When you find what you want to do, go for it!

Sarah

I would advise myself to take every opportunity to get invovled at high school because it helps you become more well rounded. Also attend all the college visits that happen at the high school, this is a very good resource. Another thing would continue to keep you GPA high, don't miss and opportunity to take and retake SATs and stay active in extracurrular activities. Also go to colleges that you are interested in and take tours, spend the night and just get a feel for the campus. High school will end so quickly and college is very different. People are more accepting and time is very flexible. As a result, find a good way to organize yourself and manage your time well. Thats about it!

Jade

Making sure you develop good study habits , organizational and time management skills during high school will help so much in college. While college is fun, and a great time to meet people and socialize, there is also a lot of studying involved, depending on your major.Taking available college-level classes or AP classes during high school will prepare you for the large amount of cousework in college, and also importantly, many colleges and universities will allow those credits to transfer, which results in you saving money. Another thing I would say is definitely apply for federal aide, and searching and applying for scholarships as soon as possible, because college is expensive.

Teresa

Dear Teresa, Now that you are in college, just breathe! Know that you are making good choices in your life for yourself and your future family. It will be hard work but just remember how well you do knowing that hard work makes you stronger and helps you to feel better about yourself. You will have so much fun and that is always the reason for moving on. Fun in knowing you are becoming stronger, smarter, and better for this world. You are hear to help people and to encourage others. Love the people you meet even the unlovable ones, they need it the most! Listen to your mom and dad, even when they seem unresonable they are just trying to keep you safe and helping you to not do the same mistakes that they did. Whatever you do, always remember that you are cared about and that worry is not necessary. Enjoy life to the fullest! Love always, Teresa

Jessica

The advice that I would give my high school senior self is to know and understand the hard work that it takes to acheive and maintain good grades as well as to let myself know the high price of taking out loans for a more expensive college. I would try to put my school college career in perspective for my high-school self, and I would tell myself that I have many chances around the United States of America to search for a school that could give me a great education for a great future career without having to worry about the high cost of the school's price tag. Another thing that I would tell my younger self is to really think about what I would like to committ to 100 percent, because in the end, that is something that will help me to attain the kind of career in the general field that I desire. The point I would try to make would be to rethink the desire behind my college application process and make it easier on myself in the search for a future career, overall. I would tell myself that it should be enjoyable altogether.

Kaylena

If I had the chance to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to remember that freedom is a privilege and do not abuse it; when you are at college your choices and your actions reflect your academic success, your personality, and your future. You make your own decisions, nobody will be there holding your hand as they do in high school, meaning professors do not care if you attend class, you are accountable for getting everything done , tests are everything, and the weight of your success is all on you. Procrastination is the worst thing you can do fin college, and it will show, you cannot get by with half your effort. Most of all, I would tell myself and any other high school student that college is not only a new chapter in your life where you will pursue education for a degree and a career, but also a time to make as many memories as you can and meet new friends. Make time for yourself and your interests; step out of your comfort zone, and be sure to take time to have some fun and relax sometimes.

Cyrus

Coming into college, I was vey unprepared for the work load and the amount of homework that needed to be done outside of the class room. Through High school, I was the type of person who would just get the minimum done, and be okay with a passing grade. After my first semester in college, I've learned a lot about studying, and the importance of really learning the content vs. memorizing the answers. I would tell myself to pay attention and start working hard now, also, take advantage of the free education and not have free periods.

Joshua

As a current college student, there are many things that I wish that I would have done to better prepare myself for the college experience. I always knew that college was going to be more difficult then high school, but I didn't quite prepare myself for the ways in which college is more difficult. I always thought that in college there would be more homework and that it was going to be a lot more difficult, which is not entirely the case. The fact is that most of college is based on tests and exams, and these are what can kill you, if you're not ready for them. If I could go back in time and talk to myself, I would make sure to tell myself to work on my study habits, and to make sure that I knew the material talked about in class by reading the books. I would also tell myself to make sure that I got work done early and did not procastinate. I have found all of these things to be the things that I struggle with now, and if I could have better prepared for them in the past I would have.

Jeanette

Do not be so worried about where you should go to college. You will probably enjoy whichever college you choose. The distance you are from home ends up being farther than you originally expected because you are busier and can't go home as often, so even if you are somewhat close to home, you won't go home as much as you may have originally thought. You will not get as much financial aid as you expect. Apply for scholarships!!!! You will not get as many grants and scholarships from the colleges as you expect. Don't give up applying for scholarships! College is harder than you expect, no matter how good of a student you are in high school. You are busier, and have more homework. Hard classes and/or lots of credits is manageable, as long as you can discipline yourself to study even when you want to socialize. At first it may feel like you don't know anyone, but you will soon be very familiar with the people on your floor and they will not be strangers anymore!

Taylor

Be yourself, but be openminded. There is nothing greater than arriving on a campus and making a change as your own individual, but there is nothing more devestating than limiting your opportunities by being obstinant. Flexibility is the name of the game. College is a place where you will evolve, as an academic, a worker, a friend, a lover, a responsible contributor to life, and a person. So pay attention to all the subtle hints and details that can pass you by, they are the most important. But once you have taken note, do; Do everything you can; Experience everything offered by the college, the campus, friends, professors, and random situations. To let experience pass, is to let possible life-changing events pass. What you garner from watching and doing will have the greatest effect on your college experience, as well as who you become as a person. Think of college as a training ground for real life, a safety net where you learn the ground rules, so when you arrive at your office, or the real estate agency, or the loan agency, or the bank as a fledgling, you can succeed as yourself, an individual.

Brandon

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a highschool senior, I would tell myself that all of the stress that I was going through applying to college, and figuring out how to pay for it, is completely worth it. The friendships I have made at George Fox University are completely worth the time and the money. The education is excellent, and that everything will work out in the end. Worrying about school does not matter, there is nothing that I can do about it. Go with what happens, and do not stress. Another thing that I would tell myself, is that no matter what happens, there is always another way to work around it. Nothing is new under the sun, and there is always another way to get where you want to go.