Humboldt State University Top Questions

So far I haven't gotten too much out of my college experience. I've only been in college for about two months though and I haven high expectations for the future. I'm getting help with trying to study abroad and I wuoldn't be able to go abroad at all if it wasn't for school. That is one of the things that I am most excited about.

College is something everyone should experience. It gives you more confidence and teaches you about life and how you can survive in the world on your own. It isn’t As each as middle school or high school, but at the end its worth it. I remember going on the first day. I had the stomach ache you get when your nervous. But as soon as I walked into my first class I knew I was going to like it. The students were interacting with each other and the professor as well. I made new friends and learned new things. Homework is probably the hardest thing about college. No one likes writing essays and staying up all night studying for the big exam, but at the end it’ll be worth it. You can get a better job and better opportunities in the real world with a college degree. My college experience has been great. I made new friends, gained more confidence to go out on my own, and I know professors and counselors are always going to be there to help me. Attending college has been very valuable to me. Attending college is a great life experience.

So far, the most valuable thing I have learned from attending college is how to adapt to new situations. Living on my own, or rather with a roommate, has certainly been a challenge, but a rather refreshing one. Being able to choose all my own classes is fantastic, and I am able to learn much better this way. I am already learning so much in my critical writing class and my music classes. I am learning how to think for myself and am greatly improving my skills. Attending a university is an awesome way for me to specialize in the areas in which I am naturally good.

My college experience has been amazing i must say. It is quite different than high school but it is definitely worth my time. I have met many people here and it is a great feeling to be studying something that i love. I get to meet new places that i had never visited and it makes me grow as a person. It makes me more independent the fact that i am away from home and it prepares me for my life as an adult. I definitely believe college has been worthwhile because it is fun to learn while knowing that in the long run i will be accomplishing my dreams.

Going away to college was the best thing I have ever done. Originally I was from Anaheim, and now I am going to school eleven hours away from home. It has given me independence and made me grow accountable for my own actions, but that is what everyone says. The majority of my friends, like me, chose to go away to college. Many chose to stay at home but some went hours and hours away from there homes. Unlike me though many either quit or ended up going back home to go to the community college that is only an extension of high school. Here I am now in my third year of college and about to get my degree in psychology. I know that without leaving everything at home and moving away I would not be where I am today. These days it is really important to go to college. Without college, I would not be able to support myself let alone a family. Even with a part time job, one can barely make the cost of living in California while attending school. College is an important step in becoming an adult, and making a living for the future.

Not only have I studied at Humboldt State, but I have also been fortunate enough to study abroad in Berlin at Freie Uni. Both studying in Germany and in Northern California have given me the tools to expand my cultural and educational identity, making me-in short- a more well rounded person. I have also been fortunate enough to be able to compete on the track team at Humboldt. Apart from my studies as a history major, the team, and competing fills my life. Much more than a team, we have become a family; from them, I have learned the values in perseverance, dedication, and the love of sweat. All these experiences I take away from college help me to better understand how I can make my place in the world. Humboldt has been so valuable to attend because I cannot see myself learning the lessons I have learned anywhere else. I fit in, like a jigsaw piece, at Humboldt State University. I have made it my home and my life. It is the place from which I will jump into the world, the only place I could ever jump from.

Humboldt State University (HSU) has provided a positive and challenging learning environment. The professors offer a diverse range of experiences that have been inspirational and rewarding, while using the natural environment as its classroom. Additionally, they have prepared me with a background that is multidisciplined and applicable to any future endeavors that I will endure. In all honesty, I highly recommend HSU as a educational institute to any students that want to a study at a small state university. I also recommend HSU for being in Arcata, Ca. Arcata is a great place to live as it cares about the future of its local community, while being in the heart of the Redwoods. I love you Arcata, California.

I have realized that If I fail I must try, try again. I started out my college experience as a very confused teenager. Then, as I progressed along my semesters, I became more and more aware of myself and my actions affecting others around me. My classes helped me explain my own behaviors and other humans' behaviors. I had to experience all that I did to make a healthy career decision later. I may have messed up in my own opinion, but I was not able to get to where I am now without struggling through those hard times. I have learned so much more by experiencing college on my own, than I would have if I would have allowed my father to shelter my individualistic growth. Now that I have earned a degree and learned more about myself, my abusive mother, and those people whom I choose to surround myself with, I have gained another chance to excel in the area that I have the greatest passion for: helping others.

My college experience has given me a new perspective on my life. I came into college thinking I knew exactly what I wanted, but in the time i have spent here I have thought hard about what I truly wanted to do with my life. My professors have given me ample amounts of support and have always been there for me. I have been able to practice teaching and through that have found the passion in my life. I have always wanted to be able to help people and at first I thought that the only way I could would be by becoming a doctor but by taking many classes I found that my true love lies with photography. Through my exploration and contact with the teachers here I learned that you can help people just as much by giving them an outlet for their emotions, by helping them find a way to express themselves. For some, it will save their lives. By attending college I have found a real passion in my life and have hopefully been able to help spark a passion in others as well .

Ever since I got to college, it has made me realize that this was the best decision I could have made to set myself up to have a successfull life after I graduate. I want to be able to suppport myself without my parents when I do graduate and I don't think I could have accomplished that without choosing to attend college.

My college experience has better prepared me to go on to Graduate school. While at Humboldt State University, I tended to overload my credits in order to challenge myself both academically and personally. Being a single father of a 6 year old and attending University more than full time helped me to become a better organized individual, which I feel had a great deal to do with my being accepted to the University of Southern California's Rossier School of Education. I learned what my strengths are, and what area's I needed improvement in. That in and of itself has been an invaluable resource in helping me to better myself in an honest and objective manner. Having the ability to do this will undoubtedly assist me in my future endeavors.

If I had the option to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself that it is vitally important that I focus on my own future, and never let go of my dreams because of someone else. The most important thing is to somehow find the time and the energy to put aside all the involvement and excitement of ?being a senior?, and commit to the task of laying the financial foundation for success in college. The biggest regret I?ve ever had is having to drop out of college due to finances. You can never rely on someone else to do your work for you. Growing up is the most difficult thing you will ever do, and learning it now will save your future a lot of heartache and headache. Moving to a new place, making friends, and even the classwork comes secondary to figuring out all the adult ?life? things you have too. Seek guidance in everything you do. Don?t deter from the wisdom of parents or counselors. Find your dreams, find the means, and believe in what you can achieve.

Be yourself. College is not an extension of high school, people will love you for who you are. Take it seriously though, don't drown in your newly acquired freedom. The library is still for studying: don't let those cute guys and ladies distract you. As long as you stay focused on who you are and what you expect from yourself, you can do whatever you want.

If I went back and talked to my high school senior self, I would tell her to calm down. I know that at that time in my life, I was extremely stressed out about the transition of moving off to college, leaving home, and preparing for the rest of my life. But I now know that stressing out does not make anything any easier. Once I took a deep breath and calmly figured out my classes and other transitional things, I felt much better. I would also tell myself to make friends. School is much easier when there are people around that can understand what you are going through and help with whatever problems are faced. I am not a very social person so I joined a team and have since made many friends with different personalities that I can talk to. Having someone there really helps when I feel that I cannot continue on with classes or practice.

Your college experience has the potential to give you knowledge, teach you responsiblity, provide you with organizational skills, and introduce you to a different way of seeing things. Remember that participating in athletics is a great experience as long as you look at your goals and do what it takes to complete them, not succumb to any sort of peer pressure from friends or even teammates, and realize that you are a wonderful individual capable of succeeding if you are willing to put forth the effort. Take the time to enjoy your classes and make sure that school gets done first. Athletics will be a great way to teach you how to prioritize and create relationships with your professors that will help you suceed in the classroom. Last but not least invest your social time making friends outside of the team and not pursue boys, let them come to you. Finding your future husband won't happen until you just let it be. Remeber be confindent in who you are, know that you can accomplish greatness, dedicate yourself to succeeding, and most of all have fun.

I would of tried to spend my summer more efficiently. I also would of tried to make more friends and go on more dates with girls while I was in the dorms. Live life with less fear, get involved, test the limit. Choose the right roomate or get lucky...

I would tell my self that life isn't easy and that's why one has to work hard. And if the college I want to go to is far from home put my mind to it and tell myself that I can make it, I will make it. Don't let any one stop you because you are going away from home for an education not for fun and games but to learn and graduate to work in something that you like and will pay good. Another thing I would tell myself would be to put all the effort into my work and focus on my classes. And if one day there's a party and the next day I know there will be an exam or there will be a possibility of being an exam then I will have to say, "Sorry but my studies come first because I know I will become someone important in the feature." And although there is time to work there is also always time to play. It's like they say the way you work should be the way you play. You work hard you play hard.

Heather, You're a smart and beautiful person, inside and out, no matter what anyone says. You have the potential to accomplish whatever you set your heart on. You just need to have a focus. Start with something small, focus on doing the best that you can do on every test, assignment, and page of notes. Join a sport! It's a great way to stay active, obtain friendships, and build self-esteem. Though it's awkard and scary at first, involve yourself in extracurricular activities--it's nice to be apart of something, and it looks great on applications and scholarships. Speaking of which, stop procrastinating. Go to the counselling office and get help, that's why they are there! I would conclude my talk by playing a song by Sidewalk Prophets called "The Words I Would Say." Here's the the chorus: Be strong in the Lord And never give up hope You're gonna do great things I already know God's got His hand on You So don't live life in fear Forgive and forget But don't forget why you're here Take your time and pray These are the words I would say

High school was an interesting time now that I look back on it. I was in high school 4 years ago, and it really feels like a life time. In high school everyone is pretty naive and have skewed and uninformed outlooks on life, therefore there is much to say for going back in time and talking to myself as a senior. First, I would tell myself to not be so afraid of things, because that can really hinder development in the long-run. I would also advise myself to apply to as many internships as possible and really explore what matters to me in life. Another really important thing I would say is to not worry so much about taking AP and honors courses, because in college (especially state colleges) people don't care whether you got and "A" or a "B" in that high school honors or AP course. High School is really just for busy work to get you ready for college. Exploring the world is what gets you ready for life. The last thing I would say is good luck, and don't forget that life is fun!

Please take advantage of scholarships! They are out there for your benefit! And save as much money as you can. Appreciate your parents and family. When you are there on your own, you have no idea how scary and exhillarating it can be. Don't give up on your studies. It is going to be hard in college, but you are able to do anything. And don't worry. Every little thing is going to be all right. College is somewhere where you can finally discover who you are and what you want to do. It is also somewhere where you meet some of your most best friends.

Life doesn't get easier. It only becomes more complicated. Be prepared for joys unlike any you could imagine, and for pains and aches that will tear at your soul. Between the chaos of homework, paying bills, keeping employment and the nuances of life you will lose yourself. Your intellect and schooling will remain constant, always cling to that beacon in the stormy seas of life. And, most of all, take it easy on yourself. The transition to adulthood is strenuous; the responsibilities and possibilities are endless. But remember to stay slow and enjo the experience, and be kind to everyone, including yourself.

There is a never-ending list of things I would tell myself to do differently if I had the chance to talk to myself as a senior in high school. First and foremost is not to stress. My biggest fear was the changes I would experience when I left the bird nest I called home. Change is inevitable and I became stressed trying to accept it. Secondly I would tell myself to crack down and work on more scholarships! I received several scholarships, but more are always helpful to allow me to focus on the most important thing at hand: my education. Last but not least, I would tell myself that the transition to college (and college life) is a wonderful and vital step in my life. I would let my senior self know that whether or not she would take my advice, everything would turn out just as it should. That is, I'm on my way towards my dreams and nothing can hold me back, only push me closer to my goal.

Being able to go back in time and depart knowledge about the immediate future seems a valuable opportunity. I know I would have appreciated being a little more prepared for the journey. The first thing I would do is let myself know about how overwhelming the experience is at first, but that it will pass and getting into the swing of things is easy enough. I would tell myself that I don?t have to be best friends with my dormitory roommate because I just end up hating everyone she hangs out with, and I would also say, ?eat healthy, and don?t go to the hospital that one time your stomach hurt so bad it crippled you. It was just an ulcer and they don?t diagnose you but still charge you about $4,000.? The next thing I would say, however, is to never travel back in time. "People walk their paths," I would say, "and there?s no point in going backward. Never regret anything, no matter how foolish you thought you were. You learn from experiences, especially when they?re bad, and if there was anything worth doing in your lifetime, it would be learning.?

The very first thing I would tell myself is ?There are other people like you when you get to college.? Throughout all high school, I was that dork that cared about things like learning and grades. The loser that actually did all of the assigned reading and actually liked it. Now that I?m at a four-year university with other English majors, I have met people that think like me and understand what I babble on about. Next I would tell myself that there is no shame in going to a community college. There is a lot of looking down one?s nose at the community college system, but there is no reason for it. You are in a class of about 30 to 40 people learning your general education when my friends were in classes of 300 students learning the exact same lessons. I know I had more one-on-one time with my professors. Do not let anyone fool you into thinking that any sort of education is not substandard to another. And remember, you get what you give ? put the effort in and you will get the rewards.

I would make sure to introduce myself to my professors early. It is important that they get to know you right away. Also, I would tell myself to join plenty of clubs associated with my major. It is very important to get to know the people who both share the same major and interests as you. It also provides you with a great network to find a job. I would tell my high school self to make sure that I had plenty of waterproof clothing!

If I could go back in time and give myself advise pertaining to making the transisiton into college life, I would focus on the importance of the ability of being able to use your degree after college. I am currently going back to college to complete a second degree, this time in nursing. My first degree did not enable me to enter into a good paying career. I found that many of my friends had the same problem. We all have college degrees that we worked very hard to complete, yet we are unable to find a job that is both fulfilling and financially secure. In order to do so, we would need to further our education significantly. The advise I would give myself would be to take the time in college to focus on a major that will allow you to jump directly into a career, or to have a plan that includes continuing education to do so. College courses are hard work. Remembering that it's not just the diploma at the end of studies, but the career that follows, that is the real reward for all the hard work.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would probably tell myself to meet more people at the beginning of the semester, actually read the text book (barring the history ones), and stop procrastinating. Though I am still working on the latter of those three. It was pretty lonely at the beginning of college because i was quite shy then and didn't really have the courage to go out and meet others, and i still have issues with that. I was just lucky that a few of my dormates shared my interests and we did become friends once they discovered I really wasn't an angry misanthrope (Funny how first impressions go). As to reading textbooks, i almost failed my Intro to Enginnering class because i didn't read. You see i had never actually had to do so before except for english. In high school i just paid attention and winged it. History books are one of the few i never actually have to crack open. As for the whole procrastination issue, I would tell my past self, "do as i say not as I do." ...and block Wikipedia.

The trick to college life is simply to stay calm, work hard, and keep smiling. High school is just the stepping stone to the next level of education. Don't give up on anything yet. It's a long haul until graduation, but it's all worth it in the end. Anger, frustration, and depression never got anybody anywhere. Stay calm and don't self-destruct. Optimism is the biggest part of college life. In the beginning, it might feel like nothing's going anywhere, like you're not good enough to make the cut for sophomore year, like you're all alone in a huge new world. The truth is, things get better. Keep a level head. Smile and enjoy life, but don't let things pile up. Enjoy the rest of senior year and make the most of your summer and the time you have left at home.

Stay focused; when you hit college everything is put on you; all of your assignments are homework; you don't get classtime to do it. Set priorities, and a good budget.

Looking back, there are many things I would tell myself as a high school senior; most among studying habits, applying for more scholarships and saving money. Although, the real advice I would give myself would be to have a more open mind. My parents have always told me to stop thinking I know everything and I never listened. I moved to Humboldt State, not realizing cultural differences between Nothern California and Southern California. It has only been a few months, but I have learned a lot. Humboldt is a very liberal county and so is the campus. People are accepting to the gay community and are dedicated to being eco-friendly. I noticed that everybody is open minded to new ideas and opinions; everybody listens. Not only have I been able to shape my opinions, but I have realized that I did not listen enough to my teachers, parents and anyone who had more experience. All in all, the advice I would give to my "high school senior-self" would be to be more open minded and accepting to advice.

"Hi Lerin. Start preparing now not only financially but also for the emotional side of leaving. You come from a very close family and the most difficult part about moving will be not seeing Mom, Dad and the boys (brothers and nephews) face to face. Also, keep on track with looking and applying for scholarships and grants. Write the essays and fill out the paperwork no matter how grueling it is. If you do, you wont have to take out loans and work two jobs just to get by. No matter how much they want to, Mom & Dad cannot afford to pay your way. When you get there, talk to people and make friends; it's the only way you will survive. Don't find comfort in excessive partying, buckle down and get the studying done. You can reward yourself after these tasks are complete. However, don't get so bogged down with school you lose your social life, it is important too. It is like walking a tightrope, the balance between school and keeping sane. You can get to the other side just stay true to you. Trust me, I?ve been there?

If I could talk to myself as a senior with the knowledge I now have I would have a lot to say. I would tell myself to be prepared to study, a lot, even if there is not a midterm. I would tell myself that studying my lecture notes after class is vital to remembering what I have learned. Also, I would tell myself to go to class, no matter how hard it is raining, how far away my class is from my room, and regardless of how much I would rather just sleep. I would tell myself that the first few weeks are tough, but you will make friends, so do not worry too much. I would also tell myself that I need to be prepared to deal with the fact that friends back home will change and so will you.

Don't be so nervous. Don't put everything off until the last minute, kiddo, just do it and get it over with. College and all its processes are not as scary as you think they are. It's like high school, but more fun, so don't worry about it so much. You're going to love it, and you're going to be alright. The homesickness is not as bad as you think its going to be, and you're going to make some really good friends here. Now, on the other hand... You really need to get a job. This place is not cheap, sweetie, and it won't pay for itself. Also, don't procrastinate on your homework. Some of it will be okay, but do not under any circumstances procrastinate on papers. That will leave you frantically typing it out the day before it is due, and that is no fun at all - especially since college papers tend to be longer than high school papers. But all in all, just run with it. Live it. Don't hide in your dorm; go out and do things. It's worth it.

If I could give myself advice as a high school senior about higher education, it would be: be as involved with your community as possible, talk to other majors, take classes outside of your major that you know nothing about because they interest you, share meals with your friends every chance you get, realize that addictions are a result of someone not receiving the support they need to balance, seek out your professors to tell them your dreams and ideas, have alone time every day, don't watch tv, don't expect your professors to have all of the answers, ask questions, realize issues are a lot more related than institutions want you to realize they are, and make sure you make people feel good about themselves every chance you have, don't waste money on movies or video games, maintain and use but don't abuse your body, get to know the aspirations and beliefs of your colleagues, talk about what your friends are learning, support your friends in their extracurricular activities, uncomfortable conversations are usually the most important to have, and schools don't empower you... the very knowledge which you wield does.

I would tell myself to follow my dreams and pick the campus that is collectively the most comfortable, beautiful, and friendly. I would tell myself that college is not as scary as it seems because there are so many nice people that are new just like you, and that you will fit in and that you can really learn to be independent comfortably. I would tell myself not to worry about missing my friends, because I will make more at college and these people are going to stay with me for the rest of my life. I would tell myself that the professors are nice and really want to help you out and there are so many opportunities that were not available before. I would also tell myself that its better than high school because you take more control over your education and what professors you get, what classes you choose, and when you choose them. Lastly I would tell myself that college allows you more freedom, and not just in your education, but in growing up and finding yourself and choosing your future life to fit your goals and dreams.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, here's what I wouls say: "Heather, you need to focus more on your studies and less on your social life. Your education is the most imortant thing in the world, do not take it lightly. You will only go as far in life as you are willing to push yourself in your education. Don't be in a hurry to get married and have kids. It is important that you wait and take the time to focus on your education before you take on the responsibility of a family. There is nothing more valuable to your own sense of self worth than your education. But remember, your education doesn't have to be all hard work; study subjects that you enjoy, explore and experiment with things that interest you. You might be surprised to find out how many things you can do if you just try. Above all else, never give up. You will succede."

Study more, but that is about it. You'll do fine

Don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it. People are always willing to help you. Don't be afraid to talk to new people! If you don't put yourself out there you may end up feeling lonely and missing out on all the fun that college life can bring.

If I was able to go back in time and give advice to my senior self, I would definitely tell myself not to stress out too much about making a decision. It may seem like it is very important to go to a well known university, but when it is all boiled down, everyone is getting a college education. My senior year,I was more worried about the name of the school then anything else. I thought, "What would people think of me if I went to this school?" Now, I realized that college is what you make of it. I doesn't really matter what campus you go to, the important part is the experiences you will have.

It is so incredibly important for students to pick a college where they are going to be comfortable stepping out of their shoes. College is really the time when students are faced with so many different challenges, both good and bad, from building relationships with new people, trying to be comfortable with being out on their own and independent, values and beliefs will be challenged, long stressful days, balancing work with school and social life, just many, many hard decisions and new experiences and responsibilities left and right. Students really need to take the time and consideration to check into many different schools, even ones away from home. They need to visit the colleges, talk to current students and professors, ask lots of questions. Students need to get an idea of what the college is all about- the teachers, classes, campus, extra actvities, the town itself and surrounding areas. College shapes the rest of ones life so students need to surround themselves with the ideas, attitudes and people that they aspire to be. Take the time to learn about the college before making such a big decision, it will save a lot of stress, confusion, and unhappiness.

big names dont mean a thing. find a college that has classes in what you want and visit it. get the feel for it and then dive in!

really ask your child what they want and if you know how they are, if they are quiet send them to a smaller school

If I could give any parent one particular piece of advice, it would be this: Let your child choose the school that they feel is right for them. Be supportive as your child go's through the piles of school brochures, weighing the pro's and con's of each school as if it were their final decision in life. For some students, that's exactly how the decision feels. If you have worries about some of the potential school choices (for example, if they are "party schools" ) express your thoughts to your child. It's better to discuss those feelings before your child actually makes a decision. As for the advice I would give to potential students; Consider a school that will successfully satisfy your extra curricular and social needs, just as much as it will satisfy your educational needs. There is nothing worse than attending a school that gives you too much of one over the other. I have learned that if you have a school that caters to both areas, that you will be more successful academically and more fulfilled emotionally.

Students, choose the school thats best for you, not what your parents want. Choose the major you want, even if you dont know if you will succeed. Join as many clubs as you can, make friends with everyone. Don't stick to one group, then there aren't as many activities to do than if you have mulitply groups. Try new things, take classes that will challenge you, not just "basket weaving." Try to live on campus for at least on year or semester, you will make so many friends through your dorm than someone that just lives in an apartment or rents a room. Last, have fun and smile. no one wants to befriend a moody person.

Parents, listen to your child - don't stifle a dream. I started as a zoology major, found out that it wasn't for me, and switched to music. Now, I'm going to be a music teacher and I get to stay in an area that I love and stay around people that I adore. Don't let stereotypes of majors get in the way of your child's hopes and dreams, its their life, they need to figure it out for themselves. Also, students, don't go for a major ONLY because you think you'll be able to find a job easier or you think you'll make tons of money. You have to enjoy what you're doing to really get a full feeling from life. I chose music, and wouldn't change that decision for all the money in the world.

Dont let the reputation keep your kids from coming here, it was the best experience of my life up to date, and every college is filled with drugs. (hate to say it) I learned so much about myself, and if your child is into the outdoors, it will be a great educational learning experience for him or her. Let your kid leave the city and see how life is lived when it is slower and more laid back.

It is very important that the college is in a location that is convenient, appealing, and not distractive. A lot of students want to go far away from their homes then later decide that they are too far and transfer to be closer. A lot of students also choose a school based soley on academics and end up on a campus with people and activities that are not to their taste. They might choose a school in the country only to find that they miss the city, or find out later that the campus favors athletics as opposed to a personal artistic preference. Finially it is important that the college isn't too distracting. If the school is known as a "party school" students will have hard times finding the time or a quiet place to study. Choosing a college a lot of your friends attend is also a quality students will find distractive. It is very important to feel comfortable in your campus. Compromising these qualities can lead to negative feelings towards the campus which interfers with learning and may also lead to transfering. Transfering ends up being very expensive and can lead to repeating classes already completed.

Make sure to see the campus when the school is still in session.

complete the survey

It is so important to research colleges. Do they have a good program for what you want to do? Is it located in the kind of community you wish to be a part of? Does their vision align with yours? I also really think it is important to know if the college is liberal, conservative, whatever. I know that I have a very hard time at my college because it is so liberal, and I am not. But just really, really researching is the most important thing. I think also living on-campus is VERY important. From living off-campus, I can say that it's very hard to have a social life and to make friends if you do not live on campus! And honestly, you get the full college effect by living on campus. It is so important to GET INVOLVED! Go to a concert! Join a club! Attend events! All of this is so deeply rooted in the college experience - it is that freedom that you never had before, so take advantage of it! You will meet new people, experience new things. If you stay home and do nothing, it's like you never left highschool.