Iowa State University Top Questions

I would tell myself to consider our future more seriously and that time goes by much faster than you think. It is important to seek out opportunities and not to wait for the opportunities to come to you. I would tell myself to not be afraid to try something just because it might result in failure. With that, I would encourage myself to really think about what is important in life and, though it might change, use that pick your main course of study. Lastly, I'd tell myself to not make the mistake of thinking it is possible to have all the right answers with the limited experience and access to the world you have had so far.

If I had the opportunity to go back and talk with myself, I would tell myself to take take more AP courses, and job shadow someone in the field of study. I would tell myself to continue playing basketball, and not give up because some teamates appear more talented. I would tell myself to apply for the fasfa by the March 1st deadline, to be eligible for serval scholarships. Although I graduated with honors, I would tell myself to strive to be one of the 30 something Validictorians in my graduating class.

As a high school senior and throughout all of high school, education came easy to me. I didn't struggle to get good grades and class lessons always made sense. It is because of these factors that I never really pursued studying as much as I should have. If I could go back and talk to myself, the very first thing I would say is to learn some good study habits. Studying in college has been one of my biggest downfalls, or spending time on the materials outside of class in general. I would also tell myself not to stress out about dorm life and having no friends in my building, because it is very easy to make friends in a dorm setting. Lastly, I would remind myself to watch out for deadlines such as online submissions, or if tests were coming up. If I forgot about these things, my grades would plumment very quickly. In short, always be prepared, think of it as there would be a pop quiz every day, and that you should know all of the covered material, or at least most of it for each day.

Through out high school I focused a lot on my studies rather than getting a job like other students my age. Although I am very glad that I spent the time I did on my studies, I do wish that I would have taken a little extra time to get a job and save up money to help pay for books, supplies, and programs that I needed through out the past year of school. I am very happy that I worked as hard as I did on my grades because it got me into the school I wanted, but having a little more money and not having as many school loans would have helped me out a lot.

I would have made sure to work more on my time management and study skills. But other than that I was well prepared for college coursework due to taking AP classes all through high school.

When I was a high school senior I worried about everything related to the future: getting good grades, choosing the right major, adjusting to campus life and making new friends in a new city. The "college experience" was terrifying to me. Although I had mixed feelings about moving past high school, the negative worries tended to overcome my natural excitement and curiosity. My advice to my past self would be, simply, "Don't worry, be happy!" Most of the potential problems I feared never became issues at all; most of the real problems I experienced would have been avoided if I had relaxed and stopped stressing myself out. Had I worried less about the future, I would have been happier, calmer and more capable of reaching my goals. College is absolutely about accomplishing one's goals, achieving academic success and preparing for a future career. But that doesn't mean it can't also be a time of fun, pleasure and self-discovery. If only my high school senior self had known this!

I would tell myself enjoy my senior year because I'll miss it when I start college. I would tell myself to apply for every scholarship out there and don't be afraid to get involved in other activities. I would say to buckle down and study hard to build that study habit that i would need for college. I'd say Cory, you need to stay focused and don't let social events come before your future. Iowa State has everything to promise you a successful future, so don't blow it. Take advantage of everything that's offered to you in high school because it will only build your knowledge factor. Then I'd say, keep up the good work and keep on drivin cuz you've got so much going for you.

Well, I will surely tell myself to work more on SATs and college easys. As these are the two important things that makes sure you get into a good college with a good scholarship. Though, I don't consider Iowa State to be any less then other universities, infact the program I am studying is ranked top 15 in USA; but there surely is alot of room for improvemen, specially in making the campus more diverse. I remember when I was applying for college expected annual cost was a very big deal for me. 2 3 thousand extra dollar made me to decline acceptence letters from other colleges. Now, I realise that a students have many opportunities both on and off campus to earn some extra bucks. [email protected]

If I could go back in time I would tell myself that change can be a good thing. Going from a rural, tiny town to a state college can be extremely scary but you will meet the most incredible people to help you through it. Take things one day at a time. Be open to new opportunities, experiences, and friends. The girl down the hall that you borrowed a hammer from on the first day could end up being your best friend. A club you joined on a whim could keep you sane through stressful times. Never let the fear of the unknown keep you from fully enjoying your college experience.

I would tell myself to stay focused on my education. Distractions will come & go, but receiving a college education is something I will always have. Not only is a degree valuable in obtaining the job I want but, it is a personal accomplishment that I can always say I did through hard work & perserverance. Regret is not a personal trait of mine, but in the case of not receiving my college degree in the four years immediately after high school is something I do regret. Until I receive my college degree in Early Childhood Education, I will always regret it.

The best advise I could give myself as a high school senior is to spend time researching about the school I wished to attend as well as the program I was interested in. My mistake was researching schoosl and not having a great understanding of the type of program I was entering into. I would highly advise incomming students to have a better understanding of interests and programs. Also I would advise myself to find and talk to students who are currently enrolled in the school and program ofinterest, nothing beats a first hand account of the school and classes.

I would tell myself not to be afraid to talk to new people. I would stay in my dorm on weekends and only hang out with people that I knew from high school. Get involved! My first semester was a world of difference from my second semester. Second semester I established a routine, made so many new friends and did lots of group activities. I would also tell myself that college is difficult. It takes so much more work to get A's than it did in high school. I can't be perfect and my gpa will not be a 4.0. The only thing you can do is try your best and know that a C is not the end of the world. It's okay to be average.

Learn how to study. That is the biggest difference between high school and college. In high school, you can get away with simply "being smart." You have a great high school GPA, but it's about to get rough for you. College is a collection of individuals who are just about as smart as you, and the thing that separates a 2.5 student from a 3.5 student is their abilty to actually study. There will be so much information thrown your way, that simply absorbing it won't be enough. You will need to know how to LEARN that information so you can KNOW it, not just regurgitate it. You will be fine socially. Just learn how to learn. That is the most important part.

If I knew what I know now I would become more involved in my school with both athletics and academics. I was told that if I didn't play some certain sports than I would regret it later on and here it is the start of my sophomore year of college and I already regret it. With schoolwork, my senior year I had planned on taking an easy class schedule so my last year would be a breeze while I should have looked to the future and better prepared myself by taking courses that require time to do good in the class. College classes were a big wake up call because I actually had to study which was much different from high school.

Take school more seriously. Thank god that you joined the Marine Corps. Love your family, they are the reason you will be motivated to complete college.

Dear Natalie, high school is not the real world. No matter how many times you hear that, please realize it. In college you can not walk into class late with a hall pass, you can not put your head down on your desk and fall asleep, and you can not turn in homework weeks late and still get credit. In college, it is entirely about your life and you doing something to make it happen. There will be no teachers on your back telling you what you need to do, just you and your own perserverance and wanting to be there. Failing grades in college mean retaking and repaying for classes, and not to mention looking bad on your transcripts. It is very costly, and you will probably be paying off loans the rest of your life. In the end, it is all worth it. But the most important words of advice? Forget about what career "makes the most money." Focus on what YOU love doing, and do that.

Dear me, STOP WRITING THOSE COLLEGE ESSAYS. I know you're slaving your time away perfecting them but spoiler alert: the college you will attend doesn't require an application essay. But hey, it gave you some well needed writing practice. That being said, here's some advice from you with a year's worth of college experience. Yes, college is as great as you imagine it to be. In fact, better. All that stupid high school drama and social "rules" you never seem to understand is gone. As for majors, let's just say Animal Science is not your calling..you'll understand after the chicken coop field trip for Animal Science 101. But you'll find your passion, don't worry. The one thing though I will stress the most is don't hold back on anything. Try new things, even if they scare you. Talk to that person that sits by you in your Chemistry lecture. Sign up for that skydiving club. Do things outside your comfort zone that spark your interest, live. I wish I could go relive this year again, so have fun. Love, a college experience me

I would recommend myself to take two years at the community college to get all my general education classes done, but don't declare a major yet. While you are attending NIACC I would recommend you think strongly about what you really want to do with your life, do you want to sit in an office all day? Probably not. What activities do you do that you really enjoy? Think about these. Also don't take your high school friendships for granted. They might not be around in the future when you need them. Don't stress about the little things, because once you get life experiences the little things you are stressing about now seem like nothing. By your senior year in college you will have been through so much you'll be a stronger person. Enjoy every minute of high school because it's the least stressful part of your life. Enjoy college but don't have too much fun and make sure to introduce yourself to atleast one person in every class, then if you ever miss a class you have someone to exchange notes with.

Dear Katherine, Hey it's me, your future self. College is coming up and now that you've finally made your decision about where to go, the hardest part is over with. Don't worry, you will LOVE your random roommate and will find all of your classes okay. You will make some awesome friends and have a lot of fun moments. As far as packing goes, do NOT bring twenty folders and downsize what you plan on bringing by half. You won't use most of the things mom deemed as "necessary." Don't be afraid to be yourself right away and study a lot more for Social Psychology. The tests are hard and will be your nemesis this semester. Avoid the stupid first year boys and wait until next semester where you will meet an awesome (and cute) guy in Statistics. Oh, another thing, do NOT go home earlier over Thanksgiving and miss the Oklahoma State game. I won't tell you who wins but you don't want to miss it! Most of all, relax. Colllege is freedom and is tough but completely worth it! Hang in there, socialize, and study, study, study! Good luck! Future Katherine

Alright Jackie, this is it. You're almost done with highschool and you're one measly summer away from starting your own life and making your way towards the idependence of adulthood. Now I know you're freaking out right now but don't worry, beacuse your future self has a few tips for you. First off don't worry about losing your close friends from home, they love you unconditionally and will always be there for you. Next, (and I know this one might be hard for you) Open up! You're about to meet a ton of new people and they want to know the real you so don't be shy, just get yourself out there! And finally, the freshman 15 is real, Jackie. Learn to love the gym!

Oh gosh! Where to begin? There are so many things that I say I would like to change about my life but they are all a part of what made me the person I am today. Each thing I did, and the trials and tribulations I went through, all had their own role in molding me into who I am now. But if I could travel back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to go to college straight out of high school. Not to waste time working in factories, to go to college and get a degree in something that I could make a career with. Going back to school has been a huge step in my life. I think it would have been a lot easier when I was fresh out of school and didn't have any thing to worry about except my friends. I got married not long after graduating high school, and had my children soon after. Although I don't ever regret having my kids, I just wish I had waited until I got an education and was able to provide them with a better life.

The key to success in college is time management. If you know how to manage your time well nothing will stop you. Also, you should make relationships with your professors and advisors. These people have most likely been where you are today and can help you along the way.

If I could travel back in time and reach out to myself as a high school senior, I would thoroughly educate myself on the myriad of resources and options available to aid and finance my continuing education. I had no clue as to what all is available to those willing to seek it out and apply for it! I would also emphatically stress the importance of applying myself to my studies and clearly illustrate to myself just how much effect my efforts will continue to reflect upon my current situation and future standing. When I was younger, I took those things for granted. I was the oldest of four children from a small Texas town, and the first to set foot outside of that tiny town. I wish I could tell myself that if I had the will to make it happen, I would be able to find a way. I would insist on following my inner voice, or my "gut," right from the very beginning, and to dream as big as my imagination would allow! I would cast aside any doubts and self-imposed limitations, and continue moving forward into my future with creativity, perseverence, and gusto!

There's absolutely no need to rush things. Don't ever take anything, or anyone, for granted, as it can be taken from you so fast you didn't even know it happened. Appreciate your friends and your family. Home truly is where the heart is, and you cannot run away from your problems. You can move 2,000 miles away from your high school drama but unfortunately you carry your drama-causing self with you: you must be the change you so desire to see in others. Take a good hard look at your life and what you have, and really appreciate it for what it's worth. There's nothing more beautiful and precious than that.

Learning to study correctly and not procrastinate are keys to success at college. These are two important aspects one needs to be successful in an intense college career. Also, a social life is important, allowing you to make connections and friends that may help you in your future. Save your money for the imporatant things. Most importantly: HAVE FUN! College is a time to be serious but it's also a time to experience life and enjoy the experiences provided to you.

Try harder. Go to school every day. Enjoy it. Do not procrastinate!

If I could go back in time, I would advise myself about which classes that I should take in college so that I would be better organize and save some money. Since I was given missleading information by my high school advisor, I would tell myself about which classes that I should take in high school so that I would have gotten Bright Furtures.

Don't be worried about making friends. Just leave your door open when you're there and a lot of the time you'll make friends on accident. I made one friend because we had some classes together and then before I knew it I had made 10 plus friends all from my same dorm house. Just go with the flow and enjoy it.

“Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll still land among the stars!” This quote, by Les Brown, follows me everywhere I go. Literally, it is engraved in a golden token that I keep in my wallet! My freshman year in high school, my Algebra 2 math teacher exposed me to these words of advice, but it is not until now that the full weight of their meaning can help guide me. Had I understood it at the time, I may have saved myself some stress over these past two years in college. One of the major stressors that I have experienced is the pressure to graduate in four years. It may not seem like that should be an issue, but once the desire to graduate with your freshman class, as well as the financial aspects are factored in, the pressure can be daunting. What I have come to realize though, is that education is the overall goal. There is plenty of time to experience all of the opportunities that college has to offer. The sky really is the limit, and I should be proud of myself for the accomplishment, no matter how long it takes to finish.

If you are going to college with no idea what career you want to persue, look back to when you were a child, what did you want to be then and why. That could help you to realize what you are looking for in a career which can at lease rule out a few majors. Make sure you major in a subject that has opportunities for careers. If you choose a major in Liberal Arts and Sciences you need to know exactly what you want to do with that major and how likely it is that you can get a job. The worst feeling in the world is getting to senior year and having no idea what your major can do for your future. Plan ahead! But also, have fun. Don't do anything stupid that can prevent you from getting a job (getting arrested, getting visible tattoos) but be spontaneous and try new things. You can start over in college, so why not try to be a better version of yourself?

I would tell myself that I have nothing to worry about. College is way better than high school and holds so many more opportunities. College gave me the chance to meet tons of different types of people and learn to not be so judgemental. College is doable, you just have to learn to manage your time and not become overwhelmed by the big things.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior. I would tell myself to work hard, concrenate, and to not worry about people putting you down. Because if people are putting you down, your going to put your self down, so instead don't worry about other people, but yourself. I would tell myself to work harder and to concenrate harder because if you want to become a better person you should concentate to make a success in your life. I would also tell myself to not worry about college but to worry about graduating from high school first then college.

If I I had been given the chance to go visit me as a senior in high school I would have given myself a lot of advice and helped senior high me understand what to expect. I would tell myself that everything is going to be alright, classes and homework are not too difficult, and that I shouldn't worry about the transition with making new friends and taking college course classes. I would tell myself that making new friends is going to be very easy and that I shouldn't worry about it so much. I would help myself understand that some of the course's in college is going to be difficult and that I should set a good amount of time aside for my school work. I would tell myself that the grading system is different so I need to focus on how well I do in each course. Yet, at the same time, I would tell myself to make sure that I make time to build relationships with those who are around me.

If I could go back and give myself advice as a high school senior, the best advice I could give is to be yourself. Making the transition into college life can be quite overwhelming. Especially when dealing with a whole new set of responsibilites, new people and having to live 700 miles away from home. It is pretty easy to get caught up in all the distractions and temptations of social life, but it is not worth becoming someone your not in hopes to fit in. Learn to make your own decisions, rather than be guided by others, and it will keep you focused on your own goals and aspirations. College will be a more rewarding experience as long as you stay true to your self.

Coming into college I thought I had a lot figured out and was well prepared to transition well, but that was not the case as much as I was expecting. If I could go back to my high school senior year and tell myself one thing, it would be to apply for as many scholarships possible. I did not fully understand all the costs that add up in college, from textbooks to supplies, and it provided some unexected anxiety. I relied too much on receiving those loans, but I soon realized that all that money had to be paid back. Debt is a main concern for many students, if not all, and applying for scholarships and receiving as much "free money" would have been the main advice I would have given myself back in high school.

If I was talking to my high school senior self I would tell her to be excited for college and not nervous. Although, I am going so far away from family, I will be meeting some incredible people that become very close friends that make Iowa feel like home. Even though you want to make great memories with your new friends be sure and finish all your homework and readings before having fun. This way you are not cramming information in before a test. Also that the test in college are different than high school and to be sure and read the material the professors tell you to read for tests. The last and most important thing I would remind my high school self is that, yes the knowledge learned in the classroom is important but the knowledge you gain outside of the classroom is just as important so be sure and experience new things. These new things will help you grow into an even better individual.

Get out there and get to know people, its the only way you will feel happy on campus being a loner is not good. Stay focused on your school work boys are not important, your future is you can plan after that.

First of all I would tell myself to get used to studying and making better choices. Also to go to class and to remember that grades are important. I would also tell myself the the AST program is great and that it was a smart choice. I would look into better financial aid options, and spend less money as well.

Life isn't going to turn out exactly how you planned but if you keep working and trying it will turn out ok. Everyone has a few stumbles in college and you'll probably switch majors or change your plans for your life but the important thing is to never let it get you down. Just don't forget to have fun along the way otherwise you might miss out on meeting people who will change your life and who will become lifelong friends. Also make sure you call mom and go home sometimes she'll miss you a lot.

I would tell myself to have a plan. Knowing that I wanted to go into Computer Engineering and that I needed a job to help with everything, I should have looked into jobs offered and I would have realized that there were multiple positions available by the university with very flexable scheduling (even self-scheduling) that were in my field, which excited me when I happened to stumble upon this fact. I would have told myself to look for a university that will not only teach you what you need to know, but pay you to practice what you know, or to even teach you more!

"College is a big and expensive undertaking. If you are going to go to college you need to take the responsibility to study and complete your work as needed. You need to realize that your parent will help you all that she can but you will also have to help with the financial aspect of college. You need to chose the major that you are comfortable in and then give it all you got to make sure you are a success in that field. If you are going to teach, you need to make sure this is what you really want to do because it is one of the most important jobs there is...and it is not easy to be a teacher. If you truly want to be a teacher, then pick an area that interests you now, and one that you think will always keep your interest. You have a lot of years to teach before you can retire and if you pick an area that you don't think will interest you for many years, you will not be a good teacher and that is not fair to the kids you will be teaching. Study hard Tye!!"

I would remember that long term goals are more important that short term goals such as your social status or popularity. I would remember that grades at this point in my life are important, more important than a random person I may meet friday night and not remember. I would be sure that I started my college career off strongly.

Javier, Look at yourself, you’re living life carefree. Every day when that closing school bell rings you think the day is over. You go to soccer practice, have fun, go home and eat dinner, and maybe watch a little bit of TV. Even if you have an exam the next day, the most amount of study time you accomplish 2 hours, maybe 3. Then you take the exam and receive a passing grade. You shrug and say "well enough". But you fail to realize that you’re not being challenged, that you’re settling for something that fails to demonstrate your full potential. With urgency, I ask of you to change this promptly. Life isn't be carefree as it is now. There will be times that you will not know everything as you do now. Do not be afraid to ask for help. Asking for help does not signify that you're dumb or stupid. It only means that you are smart enough to use other people’s failures for your own success. Because the journey to success can only be accessed through the road of failure; knowing what doesn't work is knowing what will. -Future Javier

Dear High School Austin, I imagine you might be at your lunch table right now: from your left, Hannah, Josh, Beth, Lucas, Ellie, Jessie, and yourself. All of these people have shaped you into you who are today and have been your best friends for the past four years. It's almost graduation and although you are itching to get out of Cedar Falls High School, I know you're going to miss these kids. However, although you're going to Iowa State by yourself, do not get stuck in the mindset that these people are the only people you can have long life friendships with. My advice to you as you enter college is to talk to EVERYONE. You have no idea where these people come from or what they have to offer. They may be able to help you in a class or enjoy a football game with you. They even might become your best friends. Austin, do not judge off of appearances or backgrounds. Get to know the people around you as Iowa State brings in the best kids around. Keep the friendships you have now but be open to meet new people. Sincerely, Sophomore Austin

I would tell myself to prepare for college by getting used to keeping a schedule. My freshman year in college was extremely busy as we have a very competitive selection process the first year in order to be accepted into the program of choice. I had no idea of this process and had to get used to it on my own. I would tell my past self to prepare by learning better time-management skills and to practice by always completing my homework before going on to do other tasks.I would let my past self know that while the work may seem exhausting at times, in the end it is well worth the effort. Although my freshman year was the toughest, I would gladly do it over again because I know now that the experience was greatly helpful in getting me where I am today. I am extremely happy with the program I am in and all the work I have put in has paid off and more.

Don't be so shy around people, everyone else is in the same shoes you are. Get to know more people right away. You have no reason to be shy or intimidated. You are a strong confident person and have nothing to be afraid about. Go to more events at the beginning of the year that they have set up for freshman. Make time for yourself more. I know mom would like it if you came home more often. Just don't forget to have fun! These are the best years of your life, don't waste them by constintly being stressed and worried. You're smart and a hardworker. You will succeed!!

Branch out! Do not just stay with your same high school friends. You are going to make tons of new friends. And once you decide on a major you will make even more friends in you major. So don't worry if you come in undeclared; you will still make more new friends (even if it is in the last month of the school year). Don't worry about not getting all "A's". I know that first bad grade is really going to hurt. It is a new and scary experience to get grades that seem really bad. But it will be okay; life will go on. As long as you are still trying your best, there is nothing to be ashamed of. Get involved! Don't wait untill second semester because you are "too busy" to begin with. Trust me, you are not even close to being busy yet. If you wait to long to get involved you probably never will. So seek out those clubs that really caught your intrest and investigate what they have to offer. And finally, HAVE FUN! Just enjoy your time because as they say, "You only live once."

I would tell myself not to be afraid. Even though I know that my transition was very hard the first few days, everything started to get brighter as the campus and the people around me welcomed me into their lives. I would tell myself that if I try to enjoy my experience, I will succeed. However, if I choose to be afraid and closed off, I will be miserable. I would tell myself to take part in activities and seize opportunities, enjoying my life day-to-day.

Take each and every experience ot the fullest dont complain about the little stuff because there is so much more going on in life then just whats happening with you focus on your realatioships and FRIENDSHIPS!!

Take dual credit courses, go directly to bachelors and skip associates degree....go to vet school ASAP