Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus Top Questions

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

Angelica

If I had the opportunity to travel back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would constantly remind myself that perserverance is the key to success. I would also advise myself to work hard at everything, focus a lot more on my academic endeavours, read more, and use my time wisely when hanging with friends and when spending time with family. I believe that a lot is taken for granted in this life, high school opportunities included. My school and family were always there to push me in the right directions and although I didn't always want to listen to the advice they gave me, it helped me become more aware of what goes on in the world and that life is full of opportunities. I would definitely tell my high school senior self to never give up, and stand for everything you believe in. Everything is possible! If you want something bad enough, you will do anything to get it. Don't let anyone stop you, reach for your goals and just enjoy life to its fullest!

Jillian

Dear high school self, It may seem like you are the only one scared to transition to a major university with over 20,000 people...While others are planning their outfits for sorority rush and can't wait to leave their parents' watchful guard, you feel scared to go from being such a big fish in a small pond to a miniscule minnow in an expansive ocean. Well, don't worry. Everyone feels the same way as you, whether they express it outwardly or not. After the terror of freshman year is over and done with, you may hear even the most confident-seeming people admit how many nights they cried themselves to sleep from pure homesickness. Just remember, you can adjust to anything and get ready to enjoy the best four years of your life!! A line from your favorite movie: "If we're all alone, then we're all together in that, too." Good luck! Love, College Self

Kaitlin

College is a very unique place. You'll enter thinking that you know everything and graduate four (or five or six) years, 800 papers, and 30 classes later realizing that you don't know anything. Don't stress about it, everything will fall into place eventually. Hard work and responsibility for your actions go a long way, but don't forget that most of the lessons you learn will be outside of the classroom.

Mustafa

Talk to as many people during classes and learn as much as possible and start applying for internships as soon as possible.

Pouria

The most significant deciding factor on your overall college experience will be the transition from high school to college. In high school, you've most likely had the same friends since you were a little kid, but that is all about to change. Your college is going to consist of students and professors from all social and ethnic backgrounds, most of whom you have never met before. People say that first impressions mean everything; well, in terms of college, they do. Assuming you are attending your college because it gave a great impression on you, now its time for you to make an even better first impression on your college. This includes fellow students and your professors. As soon as you begin your college experience, begin looking for peers with similar interests to you because they may be the people you spend your time with the next four years. These interests may include clubs, sports, or Greek life on campus. You will also want to personally introduce yourself to all of your professors because your academic performance should be your number one priority. This will allow you to easily communicate to your professors for the remainder of the term.

Halbert

When I look back at what i have learned from my experiences in college I would give my high school self a laundry list to do before considering which college to attend and how to pay it. Picking a focus to study in college would be on the top of the list because this sets the stage for everything else that is to come. This determines which college and university is the best for what I want to major in and which gives me the best chance at a professional career. From there I would search for scholarships and grants that would taliior to my needs. Some examples of these scholarships would be from the Hispanic College Fund, some offered by the school in the degree field that I major in, and whethere my family's financial situation constitutes receiving a Pell Grant from the government. And from there would be only simple rules to live by once I have picked my major and college: Don't lose focus from school, pick your friends carefully, explore every social medium possible to meet as many people possible. That is the advice I would give myself and anybody else.

Tobi

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to buckle down on the studying and not to worry so much about having a boyfriend. I was definitely a B student without much effort, if I had realized then what I know now, I would have been an A student. As an adult, I realize that you get out of it what you put into it. And I would tell myself not to worry about the guys. There are many fish in the sea, as they say. And there will be boyfriends long after you have met your career goals. Most importantly, I'd tell myself to take care of me and don't sweat the small stuff. The small stuff won't matter 5 or even 10 years from now.

John

College is not as hard as it sounds, if you are willing to treat it as a full time job. After all, attending college is a decision that shapes the rest of your life and it is important to take it seriously. If you work hard and strive to do your best over the next four years you are giving yourself the opportunity to secure a well paying job when you graduate. On the other hand if school is not taken seriously, the next four years might be enjoyable but the rest of your life will not. As one of my favorite sayings states, "Work now and play later, or play now and work later." Where "later" in this case is the rest of your life. In conclusion, if you put an adequate amount of work into your college education you will reap the benefits for the rest of your life.

Kyle

It is better to study hard and diligent at the beginning in order to aquire the habit of self-discipline. This will help for an easier transition to college life and the ability to take the responisbility suitable to pursue a degree.

Sepura

I would tell younger self that I should have more fun and excitement while in college. I have focused heavy on my academic life while at Georgia Tech but it has come at the cost of having a true college experience. The "real world" will hit you sooner than you think and responsiblities will start pilling up. While academics are vital to a strong future, life should also be filled with love and enjoyment. Take more internships or study aboard to meet new people would be the best route to have more fun while still keeping my academic life on track. A person needs to growth both academically and socially, and balance those two evenly to create a successful and blissful life. Therefore, I would advise my your self to take more internships and enjoy the college scene more in my first two years of college.

Andrew

Everyone will tell you its going to be difficult, which may be an accurate statement for other schools. You, however, chose to follow a dream that takes you down one of the hardest paths available to you. Difficult is an understatement. You won't be able to continue with the same amount of effort as high school and do well. You're going to have to give it your all,but make sure you don't overwhelm yourself. You can still do this, but don't get too ambitous. It may seem like the best option to take a lot of hours so you will graduate faster, don't worry about that, because your going to have a hard time no matter what. Give yourself some time to warm up to the pace and difficulty, you'll need it. Don't get too distracted by other things, although sometimes its necessary to relieve some stress, but only sometimes. Good luck, you have a lot of people that believe in you and you really are capable of doing it.

Tejas

I would tell myself to jump straight into college and the college environment rather than waiting a year or two before doing so. In high school I was extrememly involved in various activities during my final two years, but did very little during my first two. That trend has continued now, and I regret allowing that to happen. If had become heavily involved with school activities and academic research as soon as I got into Georgia Tech then my life right now would be significantly different -- most likely for the better. Internships and scholarships would be much easier for me to achieve had I done that, and my social life would be better as well. In short, I would give myself this advice: "Do not be timid. Be brave, be adventurous, and become more than who you are right now." I am living that advice right now, but I wish that I had known it much earlier.

Kenneth

I would tell myself to study hard, but don't put too much pressure on myself. I would have told myself to apply for colleges sooner and tried to get more scholarships, and to make sure to get into the habit of reading ahead of class.

Addie

If I could go back in time, the advice I would give myself is: the only true failure is when you stop trying, so never stop. As a college student, it is important to understand that course load will not be similar to high school and that the material is more difficult. I have went through many phases of wanting to quit, transfer, and leave Georgia Tech, only to realize that the amount of effort I put into something is equal to what I will recieve. What you give is what you get. High school students must come to a realization that in college, school, leadership experience, work experience, and community service are far beyond more important than "having fun". Being involved within the student body allows me to grow as a person and gain the communication, organizational, presentation, and interpersonal skills that I will need in the future as a professional.

Kenya

As a high school senior, I was carefree. I had already been accepted into college and I had already taken all of my major tests in high school. I was mainly focused on track and field, as it was my final year and I was team captain. When I got to Georgia Tech, it was a totally different experience than high school. I got no sleep and I felt like everyone else was doing so much better than me. I cried almost every day. I couldn't believe that this process was taking so long to get adjusted to. I signed up for an appointment with the school counselor to help get me through this depressing stage. If I could go back and give advice to myself, I would tell myself that "it's going to be hard, but you're going to have to learn to dust yourself off and get back up again." Those simple words would've got me through many hard times. The words would've been resonating in my head. Everyone told me that the work was challenging, but never was I told that the process was that difficult.

Joseph

The decision of what college you choose is a very important decision that must be made by an individual. The decision cannot be made with pressures from friends, teachers or anyone else. The decision is yours and your family's. Although institutional finances must be taken into account, it must take its place behind the prospects you will be granted with a degree from that school, the comfort you feel in a particular campus, and the chances you have to succeed in the environment you choose. It may be easy to choose a school based on a familiarity with the institution or those who attend it, but we must realize that we are onmly young adults and must learn to adjust to new situations. College is the perfect proving ground to show independence. When you introduce yourself into an unfamiliar environment and succeed, the rewards outweigh the initial awkwardness. In a worst case scenario, your career is not set by choosing a college, thousands of students transfer to other colleges each year. In terms of school work, I must advice students to learn how to commit their time accordingly. Learn how you study best and master the art.

Ayonna

I WOULD TELL MYSELF TO GO TO A 4-YEAR UNIVERSITY INSTEAD OF A 2-YEAR COLLEGE. WHEN APPYLING AS A TRANSFER STUDENT THERE IS SO MUCH TO DO DEPENDING ON WHAT SCHOOL HE OR SHE WANTS TO ATTEND. I WOULD ALSO SAY SAVE PLENTY MONEY BECAUSE THE COLLEGE LIFE IS NOT CHEAP. FINALLY, LIVING CLOSE TO HOME HAS ITS PROS AND CONS BUT I RATHER LOOK FOR OTHER OPPRTUNITIES BUT LIVING VERY FAR FROM HOME CAN BE EXPENSIVE.

Amanda

As a high school senior from a rural town in Georgia, I felt like I had a l lot to prove. I was the first to attend college in my family and took the venture very seriously. I worked day and night during my first few years of college and because of my dedication and hard work, I have maintained a 4.0 average throughout my college career at Georgia Tech. After a few years in college, I recognized that my life was unhealthy and unbalanced; my social life was non-existent. I made marked changes in my daily routines and study habits, making it easier to socialize and make friends. Today, I am still a successful student but I have a brighter outlook on life. Knowing what I know now about college life and making the transition, I would tell my high senior self not to stress out so much. I would tell myself that I don't have to be perfect. I would convince myself that a social life was arguably as important of a part to becoming a successful student as studying and attending class. Succeeding in college is all about balance.

Abigail

I was intimidated by the workload I would be forced to bear at a school like Georgia Tech. I had attended a small school, where I had known all of the students and teachers, my entire life. Although I was always a good student, I knew I had a team of people ready to help me if I needed it. College would be my first time in a school with thousands of others where I knew absolutely no one. However, my perspective was changed on one of the first few days of class when a wise professor spoke these words: “The process of solving problems on your own is agonizing – that’s where you learn.” He was speaking about the homework that week, but his words applied to so much more. From assignments to heartbreak, learning comes from solving problems on your own. I felt a sense of ease after these words were spoken. Finally there was someone admitting to what a struggle college would be at times, yet he revealed the growth that would be found through that struggle. Since hearing such a powerful statement, I’ve been inspired and unafraid even during the tough times.

Salvador

I would tell myself to really get more involved while I was in school. I was always a very shy person, but it wasn't until I got to college that I realized the opportunities I missed out on. By getting involved in your school you keep yourself busy; so you don't turn to other, self-destructive hobbies that others may exhibit. Additionally, you can find the friends that you will have for a lifetime, and for someone that was never used to asking for help, feeling like someone was there for you was an irreplaceable feeling. Other than that, I don't regret anything. I love my college and am proud of what I accomplished. Oh... keep studying!

Leah

At this point in your college career your dedication is surly paying off. You have maintained scholarship-winning grades and have received elaborate recognition for your hard work in both research labs and internships, congratulations. However, you’ll soon see that college is about so much more than numbers and awards. It’s about cheering until you’re hoarse for your school’s football team. It's about bonding with friends doing midnight McDonald’s runs while pulling all-nighters in the library. It’s about failing an exam after weeks of studying and gaining the courage to dust yourself off and do what it takes to pull through next time. It’s about learning what you do and don’t stand for—even if it will cost you a friend or two along the way. It’s about discovering you and your passions, not what the world is shaping you to be. “Small is the number that see with their own eyes and feel with their own hearts”: this is a truism of Einstein that your professors won’t teach, but strive greater to be apart of this number too and you will surly succeed. Go Jackets!

Tahsin

Calm down. College is far from what you've seen on TV and in the movies. Every single moment is not life defining or a means to climb the crucial social scene. I know you think that college is the one time you have to redefine yourself, and it is that time. Its also the time when you are going to studier harder than you ever have before and still just make it. Its going to hurt. You're going to feel disappointment in grades and boys. No, you're not going to fall in love the first day like your sister did. But you will meet some pretty cute boys that think you're pretty cute too. Don't let them distract you from more important things like the best friends you're going to make or that calculus test. College is a balance. You are going to have more opportunities to succeed, screw up, and have the best time of your life than ever before. You just need to devote Monday through Thursday to succeeding and the weekend to everything else. College is about the experience, so join clubs, make weird friends, study, and forget some Friday nights.

Rorie

Study. I really wish I could go back. I never realized how difficult college is. High school is so much easier than college, I felt so unprepared coming here. During the first week of orientation all the older students were saying how they study 30 hours a week, and I thought they were just the over achievers and exaggerating. Nope, they definitely were not. I had to learn how to get in good study habits, and that procrastinating won't work anymore. Along with studying I needed to learn time management, not only was there studying to do, and a lot of it, but there was laundry, cleaning, making friend/fun time, and I never thought I'd say this, but taking time to shower! I think my record for days not showering is around five, yes, very gross. So if I could go back that's what I would say, so then I wasn't overwhelmed with the transition to college life.

Kari

First of all My advice to myself: Make time for studying 2.5 hours a day for each class so you have time to put that knowledge in your brain, so your not guessing on a test. Do the homework and if you don't know what your doing then ask the instructor for help so they can teach you how to do it. That's why they are there, so they can teach you to how to do the work. Get into a good sleeping pattern so if you have an early class your not sleepy and wanting to just stay in bed. Once your in college your whole life changes, you have to be more independent be on time make it to every class and don't miss a day. you miss one day it's like missing a week of school. Your missing out on what your paying the college for. Get a tutor!

Ryan

If I was to go back in time and talk to the younger Ryan, I would advise him to be himself in college. Most people talked to Ryan about the large workload involved with college, and the need for time management and organization; no one told him that above all that it is crucial to remain true to yourself when you arrive at college. College has been a life-changing expereince, it is a truly accepting place where people from all over the world can be together and learn from each other, but it is easy to get lost in college and try to become someone who you are not. With all the different groups of people, it is easy to try and conform to one or the other, and I would tell the younger Ryan that conforming is the opposite of what you should do in such a new, wonderful environment. Instead, I would tell him to be himself, blaze a new path, forge new friendships that know the true Ryan, and value your traits over others.

Lan

It's okay to be unsure. Try EVERYTHING. Sure, not knowing may make you uncomfortable, but you grow the most when you are uncomfortable. Don't feel forced to declare a major or to know from the moment that you enter college what you want to do. College is the time for exploring. If you don't know what you like it, find it. If you think you know, confirm it. Try anything and everything you are even slightly interested in. You learn about yourself in trying new things, and the people you'll meet will stay with you forever.

Alvin

I would tell myself that things are going to be different. There are going to be changed in your life and that you have to prepare for them. Freshmen courses are going to be hard and you need to do well before your GPA falls during your second and third year. The friends you make here, are going to be the ones you are closes to after you graduate. Prepare early for grad school by getting to know your professors and really start talking to them. Do not let your social life get in the way of your studies and you will have to make some tough sacrifices. But for the next four years, have fun and enjoy yourself, these are going to be the best times of your life.

Paige

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would advise myself to challenge myself more in my school work. I would take class that were college course that were avaiblefor me as a high school student. Also, put more effort in finding scholarships that would help my parents pay for my college.

Martha

Since, at the age of 63, I am an unconventional college student, I find it challenging to look back at my high school years. I was very fortunate to have had wonderful teachers that gave me a great education. To this day, more than forty five years later, I still rely on information that they provided. I have had a career in business that has lasted more than 30 years and now I am embarking on a new career. In 2013 I will be an RN! I think that I would want my high school self to know that anything is possible and that we can keep growing, learning and achieving throughout our lives. I would tell my high school self that we are usually right where we are suppose to be and it is up to us to make the most of each minute.

Chris

The best piece of advice I can think of: don't waste time. What I mean by this threefold: be more efficient when studying, think carefully about degree planning, and make time for social activities. Studying isn't just staring at a page in attempts to memorize the information, but you also don't have to "pull allnighters" to get work finished. If studying is broken up in smaller parts, while still reviewing all material, not only will grades go up, but you'll get better sleep, too. Efficient study habits also leave more free time for social activities such as clubs on campus or just hanging out with friends. Trust me, this will help make a difference in college, especially when studying (you're less likely to dread spending the time to study). The third point I wanted to make is to carefully plan your degree out by semester. This helps keep you on track for your degree and also helps make sure that credits aren't wasted as far as financial aid is concerned. Changing majors is sometimes inevitable, but that doesn't have to make your college cost significantly more.

Saswat

Study harder in high school as it will make the rest of your life easier, developing good study habits and attaining a wealth of knowledge to go back to by studying daily and efficiently would make you "smart." Also, I would advise myself to dual enroll for two years to set myself ahead in life two years. I could have finished my maths and sciences before attending college proper.

John

Firstly, know that college is not as scary as its worked up to be. I've found my hardest-working days ever all in one week, but I've also had more fun than anyone could have ever conveyed. Friends that in high school were acquaintances only until the bell rang, now become Frisbee or workout buddies. However, with great power comes great responsibility. Another note to take away from a college experience is garnering time management skills. College is very different from high school in this regard. Though there seem to be more hours in a day then you've had since you were in preschool, you now have things that must be done with that time. Where that Call of Duty tournament sounds enticing now, heeding the call of the English paper will pay off significantly more in the morning. Undeniably though, when it all comes down to it, college is for learning about your inability to wake up for an 8 a.m. class, about discovering your hidden Ping-Pong skills, but most importantly about discovering you enjoy doing. When you find what really interests you, then you’ve successfully made use of your time at college.

William

As a college freshman at Georgia Tech, I've noticed one huge, yet obscure detail that I failed to understand in high school-- every little thing counts. Whether I'm in my calculus III class taking notes or if I'm hanging out with my friends, every decision, no matter how miniscule it may seem at the time, is crucial to my success in the future. If I pull out my phone during a lecture and miss an important concept that the professor is going over, I've most likely given myself a -5 on the next test, which doesn't seem like a lot right now, but when you just need one more point on a test to get an A, it seems like infinity. If I decide to fall into peer pressure and drink a little alcohol on a Thursday (there is a college trend in Atlanta called Thirsty Thursdays where alcohol is given), I've most likely decreased my chances of waking up for class to 0{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c}. Essentially, what I'm saying, William, is that you need be at your best, at all times, if possible, to have the best chance at success.

Xialin

The last semester of high school - second semester senior year, is always the best. College applications are submitted, and all you need to worry about is passing. During this time, almost everyone, myself included, slacks off. Optional homework is no longer completed. Classes that are not attendance mandatory are now skipped. Everyone just relaxes and waits for his acceptance letter to the college of their dreams. Unfortunately, this may not be the best idea. After doing nothing as soon as winter break of senior year starts until August of the upcoming year, my brain was not as up to bar as what my college expected of me, which needless to say was also more than high school expectations? Doing the bare minimum and having a relaxing work free summer break makes it a full eight months before I really need to use my brain. Although I got by, it was definitely rough. I missed out on a lot of math I should have learned my senior year, so not only did I end up studying for the course; I also had to play a lot of catch up.

Danielle

As a high school senior, I took school very seriously. I was student body president, the officer in three different clubs, and taking 5 AP classes. My goal for the year was to graduate with a 4.2+ so I could have my name in the newspaper. While all of these things shaped me into the student I am today, there are some things I'd wish someone would've told me. For one, developing study skills is the most important thing a high schooler can do. While I'd always made A's in classes, I was often lazy about assignments. Procrastinating and doing the bare minimum is usually acceptable in high school, but in a more competitive college atmosphere, learning to manage time and classes is important. The second thing I wish I'd known is that the world is so much bigger than it seems in high school. Knowledge isn't just gained through classroom experience; it's just as important to study as it is to get out and experience something brand new. Over-stressing about grades and book work isn't worth nearly as much in the long run as having unique experiences.

Derek

If I could travel in time and go back to my high school self, there would be a few key points I would definitely drill into my brain. First, I would give myself the knowledge that although high school was a breeze, I was in for a school with academics that could eat even the brighest students alive for lunch. I would have myself study at least three days in advance for even the easiest test, knowing that all tests at this school come difficult. Next, I would also tell myself to become more open minded and to try everything that could possibly be offered both socially and academically. Also, I would have told myself to continue on with my record setting lacrosse year and play in college, there is always time to fit in sports over not missing any social hangouts. I would have also told myself to go to more professor office hours to meet my professors. Knowing a professor could not only help grades, but be used as a connection for jobs later on in life. Finally, I would tell myself not to worry about life, there is plenty of time to discover your true passion.

Julia

Looking back now, I was not very independent as a high school senior. College life requires more dedication and self reliance than my former self could have ever known. I would go back and tell myself to take my college education and devotion more seriously. Classes are more rigorous than in high school and require more time than anything ever before. I would want myself as a high school senior to know that classes will require much more studying than anything ever experienced in high school.

Justin

Very few people graduate from college know exactly what they want to do, so don't worry that you're still unsure what you want to do. However, not knowing what you want to do yet is no excuse to do nothing. Instead, feel free to try different clubs or sports while keeping a decent GPA. Study hard and get a good GPA, a 3.5 or 3.7 is good enough for the majority of the universities out there, but more importantly, do something other than school!!! I see classmates everyday that study way more than me and yes, have higher GPA's, yet I'm the one getting the job interviews, why? Because I have something to talk about besides what I did in the classroom. There are rougly five things employers look for: leadership, intelligence, ability to work on a team, work ethic, and interest in the company. Lastly, intern or co-op and study abroad while you're in college. It was one of the best decisions I ever made. Good work experience trumps almost everything. Also, your college GPA only matters until you get your first job. Good luck and remember to have fun.

Rachel

After experiencing college life I would tell my high school self a few things. First of all, I would tell myself to relax a little. Starting out your college career can be a scary time, however you do not need to have everything figured out already. Take some time to really decide what you want to do in the future. Try some new things that sound interesting and hope for the best. Also, make the most of your time and get involved. Look for clubs and activities where you will get to try something new and make friends. You will find that getting involved in activities you are excited about is a great way to meet people with interests in common with you. Lastly, I would tell myself to stay motivated. It is easy when you begin college to forget why you are there. You must remember to stay on track with your work and study hard. Make sure you always go to class, do the work required of you (and do it well), and do not let yourself slack off. College is the first step toward your future and it is important to keep your goal in sight.

William

I would tell myself to get prepared for college while you are in high school and when you do so the college classes will feel like high school classes. What I mean by that is, is that if you study and do well in high school you will not have to study extra hard in college so you can have time to perticipate in all of the extracurricular ativities and have fun. I also say to buckle up and get ready for the best time of your life.

Josh

For starters, don't bother applying to any other college. You'll save yourself about $300 in application fees, a metric buttload of stress, and time taken to fill out the applications. Not to mention the disappointment of a few waitlists and rejections. Besides, you'll probably end up in the same place anyway given your financial status. Not to mention you've already finished your early acceptance into the place you belong (Georgia Tech!!). Next, stop working and go have some fun. All those parties you've been invited to, go. Your crush of three years went to all those parties and I didn't, so get going. Unless you want to wait for prom, but keep in mind you'll miss the homecoming dance too, which I remind you I skipped as well. Keep going down this path and your grades will be better than any other year you've been in high school, and it won't even matter because it's too late now. Besides, once she leaves for China then she won't have known you long enough to commit if you procrastinate...again. Go get 'em, tiger!

Meagan

When making your college decision, make it for yourself. As a high school senior, you're going to keep hearing what your parents' and friends' opinions are, but trust yourself. You know where you will be happy, so trust your instincts. Your choice in a college will not define you, but rather, you will define your college experience. Your four years in college is a new start to your life; you can be whoever you want to be. Embrace every aspect of college, try something new, experience the true college life. But stay true to yourself. College is a big step into becoming more independent, and just remember the person you want to be. Stay focused on your goals and never lose faith. There will be times when you struggle and feel like you fall short, but surround yourself with friends and know that in the end a degree from Georgia Tech will be worth it!

Pooja

I would tell myself that time management and organization are most important in college. Many students procrastinate until the very end as they did in high school; however, procrastination only leads to wasted time and more stress. Some Georgia Tech students do poorly their first semester of classes because they are used to getting by without studying in high school, which is no longer the case at Georgia Tech. It is crucial to attend all classes, complete all assignments, take notes in class, and stay organized with all school and extracurricular work. Organization is the key for success at Tech because students are involved in so many different activities, that it is easy to fall behind. I would advise myself to keep a planner and stay organized. I also tell myself to keep all notes properly organized because sometimes a professor will go over only one example of a certain problem which is usually on the test. Organizing notes would allow me to keep up will all the material, and this will benefit me when studying for finals as well. I would also tell myself to maintain a healthy life-style through proper diet and exercise.

Emily

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to enjoy my last year of high school and not to spend any time worrying about moving to a new city or making new friends. I would say this because as a high school senior, I was very worried about trying new things, since I had lived in the same town for most of my life. I was scared that I would fail out of school or not make friends. I would tell myself not to be scared to try new things, because they will pay off in the end. I would also tell senior me to challenge myself as much as possible, because the challenges that I have faced in college have helped me become a better person.

Austin

Do not procrastinate! Work on everything as soon as you get enough information to start! You may feel like you can just put off working on a project, but you will feel much better if you get it out of the way. If I had been any slower in addapting to life a Georgia Tech, I may have missed a major assignment that would have brought me down and least one letter grade. This doesn't only apply to school work either. Applications for financial aid, job applications, housing choices, and student loan forms should all be handled as soon as possible in order to avoid unnecessary stress. You may not be the only student having this problem, but I know you can overcome it. I did, even if it did take me a bit too long.

victoria

Be curious! Ask questions and search for answers. Remember, it is important to be able to work independent. Be organized. It is important not to leave homework for the very last minute. If you have a chapter to read, start reading it the same day. As more time you give yourself to study as more chances you have to succeed. Be excited about every task, every project, every paper! Think about it as an opportunity to conduct a research and demonstrate your knowledge or express your personal point of view. It is important to receive high grades. But it is also important to be able to remember studied material for a long term and to be able to use it in life and future career. Grade is an evaluation of your knowledge; so a grade does not really matter if in two weeks you can not remember anything you have read. So do not try to memorize everything just for a test; try to absorb all the useful information for a long term and make it a part of your knowledge. It will help you to develop your intellect and become a self confident knowledgeable person.

Mohammad

Well the first thing I would say to myself is relax and continue to perservere. I was a bit nervous about what I was going to do with my life and be sucessful that it took alot of my time away to really concentrate on what matters and that building connections and making lasting relationships with professors and friends. And also to perservere and push myself to extend my capacities as I know now what I am capable of and wish I could just have known earlier. I believe success is not just determined by material goods or what is in your bank account but what you leave behind for years to come, your legacy. And to accomplish this, you need to have the right resources and knowledge, which I found at georgia tech. In this way, I would tell my old self to start making my legacy earlier and stop worring about the future career and status. This scholarship will most definitely help me aquire the necessary resources and toold to accomplish my goals.

Hai

I would tell myself to try in school and take the classes that were more challenging and develop a well rounded study habit.

Nichole

After my spending a year and a half at Georgia Tech, I would definitely tell my high-school-senior-self to apply for everything I see-- whether it's scholarships, leadership opportunities, freshman organizations at college, and anything else you can think of. First of all, there are a ridiculous amount of scholarships for incoming freshman. Half of them take less than 15 minutes to apply so just DO IT! Also, after my first semester of college I committed myself to applying for everything I see that remotely interests me, which resulted in my selection as Georgia Tech's 2012 Homecoming Chair as a result of this. The more you expose yourself to opportunities in college -- and there are a lot of awesome organizations, leadership summits/retreats, and speakers that will come to your campus and you never know what is going to give you a spark of inspiration. Sometimes all it takes is a short application that not everyone will be willing to fill out. Apply for everything! You can always turn it down later if you change your mind.

Seok

While Georgia Tech holds many exciting opportunities never seen in high school, please be prepared for some greater responsibilities as well, as college will not live life for you. Eat well and maintain a healthy lifestyle, since it will be a lot easier to catch yourself with unhealthy fast food as a quick meal than in high school. Learning how to cook for yourself will prove to be one of the most rewarding experiences in terms of both long-term health and expenses.Also take advantage of the campus’s ample athletic facilities for all sports needs to maintain a healthy body, which will be much more beneficial and exciting than chugging energy drinks all night. But above all else, you are not alone. Have some friends! Colleges can bring in all sorts of people and maintaining good contact with others will become one of the most crucial aspects of surviving college in terms of social, academic, and career support. College does not last forever, and it is important to befriend not just fellow students, but also professors and businesspeople who may connect you to a bright career opportunity in the future!