Iowa State University Top Questions

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

Jacob

The advise that i would give myself is to study a lot more just to get in the habbit because it's a lot harder to start studying once you get into college. Also, i would tell myself to save every penny because college is really expensive and student loans aren't the best solution to the problem. Lastly, i would tell myself to fill out a lot more scholarships.

Samantha

I would have advised myself to declare my double degree and minor a lot quicker than I did. That way I could have planned out my course schedule a lot easier.

Po

a good environment for studying is really important. go to a school that is competitive and wiil encourage you to challenge yourself.

Lauren

The advice I would give to myself would be not to get hung up on a guy back home and to live your freshman year. That was probably one of the hardest things for me this past year. Now I have learned that you have to live your college years and do well because you only have four years of it. I would also tell myself to be out there and get to know people and not worry so much on being homesick. My first semester was really tough for me being three hours away from home I was homesick a lot. I have really grown up this semester and glad. I have learned who my true friends are. Another thing I would tell myself would be to read the chapters and study a week in advance for a test. College exams aren't easy and I have really learned how to study now and am glad. Even though I did not get this advice in advance I am still enjoying college, and to be honest wouldn't want to go back and try it again because this time is going pretty good.

Jamie

I would tell myself not to worry as much. College is a great place to be and meet new people. I'll be busy with multiple things at a time so I won't be bored. The people around you become like family and the professors are understanding and want to help you with your academics. You will have all the support you will need at Iowa State University. Just relax, have a good time, and don't stress so much about everything and how it will fall into place.

Lesieli

When you get into college, be prepared for how different the teachers conduct their classrooms. It is very different, but you must stay focused and committed if you want to do good. Make sure you're not late for any registration because there are other students ready to take any open spots. Stay on top your classes and school emails, they will notify you about important dates. Get to know the campus ahead of time so you are not lost. Also make yourself familiar with the teachers and events so you know how things run within the school. Make sure you see your counselor regulary, they will help you out on a lot. Please, take advantage of the lab hours you're assigned to and the lab and library period! Always keep in mind the basics of education, be on time to class, listen and pay attention in class, ask questions, do your homework and classwork and study! Do not procrastinate!

Angela

The advice that I would give myself is..... go to school. Even if you don't know what you want to go for. Just take some classes and see what interests you. I wish that I could really go back and do it all over again. I would go to college and take some classes. I am 40 years old and I have forgotten so much stuff in the years since graduating high school. I really wish that I done this a long time ago. But I decided that I am never to old to learn something new. I always tell teenagers go get your education while you are young. Because once you are older it is so much harder to do.

Alene

I would tell myself the same thing that I tell my incoming students, "Welcome to college, honey, you will actually have to work for your grades here." As someone who skated by in high school, I really didn't believe those who told me that college is actually difficult. I would probably inform myself that it is difficult, but fun. By working hard and applying myself during the week, it allows me to have a good balance on the weekends.

clayton

I would say to continue on my path to ISU, it has been very fun and i would not trade it for anything in the world. i would say to get involved in the greek system earlier and that i wouldn't regret it. being in the greek system is great, it provides me with a tutor, and i have better incentive for having a good gpa than if i weren't in it. i would also say to review a little bit of calculus, and to be prepared for hard exams. also that the first weeks may seem like a breeze, but after that the professors really start to make their classes more rigorous. but for the most part i would say to have fun and continue on to ISU.

Hailey

If I were to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself Iowa State is great and that I made the right choice. I would also tell myself that keeping focused on your studies is important and that working hard pays off with good grades. Additionally I would tell myself that it's important to get involved and meet lots of people; to go out and enjoy myself and not be held back. The advice to myself would be that studies are important, as my high school self knew, but it also important to not worry so much about the small things and to enoy life because college goes so fast; before I know it I will be a junior and have only one year left!

Holland

High school was easy for me, so I never developed the study skills I'd need for college, and so, my grades dropped my first year until I learned what study skills worked for me. I'd tell myself to change roommates earlier, learn to study properly, and to not pick chemical engineering because my father wanted me to, but to do animal science like I really wanted. I would tell myself to not overextend myself socially and focus on what mattered: schoolwork.

Matthew

I have absolutely loved the time I have spent in college so far. When I first came to Iowa State, I just wanted to graduate as soon as I could and move on with my life. I have come to find that to be such a sad veiw of college. The last two and a half years have been perhaps the most rewarding so far in my entire life. I have loved my classes and the lectures I have been able to listen to while I was there. The classes at college are engaging to me in a way that the classes in highschool never were. I have been more chalenged and learned more than I have in most of the other years of my education combined. The most rewarding part of my college experience so far has been definately my been my involvement on campus. I am extremely involved in the largest student organization called Campus Crusade for Christ. It is has changed my life and I think campus involvment is one of the most beneficial things any student can spend their time with. I have grown socially, acedemically, and in maturity like never before college.

Nicole

I have gotten a lot more than just an education from attending Iowa State Unversity. Leadership, responsilibility, and fun! I have taken an active role in my House's cabinet, teaching me leadership, I regurally attended GreenHouse Group meeting which strive to make a cleaner and greener place for us to live, responsibility, and Iowa Staters definetly know how to have fun! House bonfires, movies, comdians at the Memorial Union, and game nights with random people all teach me that there are simple ways to have fun and get along with people. Attending ISU has enlightened me to people who are different from me, I is an awesome experience sharing stories with people you never thought you could get along with and finding out you have a lot more in common that meets the eye. but that's what you get when you attend Iowa State, a lot more than meets the eye. a Big school with a small town feel.

Amanpreet

I have gotten a lot of out of my college experience so far. I moved more than 1,000 miles from my home in New Jersey to pursue a degree in Family and Consumer Sciences Education and Studies with a minor in Engineering Studies at Iowa State University. This academic combination is very unlikely, but I enjoy the opportunity to dive into both of my interests. I have made some of the greatest friends in my life here in Ames, IA. I have found many new interests and tried many new things such as horseback riding and Eygtian food. I have also learned about cultural differences and have begun to explore my heritage. I have also developed professionally as a co-teacher of a freshman seminar, a mentor for multicultural students, and a residence advisor.

Lea

Before I came to college, I thought I knew what I wanted to do with my life. However, being at Iowa State has enabled me to learn so much about myself and to truly discover what I want to do after I graduate. I have been fortunate to be a part of ISU's newest major- Global Resource Systems. This program combines a social-science focused study on a specific region of the world with technical training in one of the fields offered through the college of agriculture. After spending some time thinking about my strengths and the extracurricular activities that I am involved in at ISU, I realized that I was interested in working abroad in a career that would serve other people. Additionally, I have interests not just in one field of study, but in many. Through the Global Resource Systems I am able to prepare for a job working in developmental health in Sub-Saharan Africa. The program allows me to take a wide variety of classes and gain work experience abroad before I even graduate. Being at ISU has given me the chance to really prepare for a future that I can look forward to.

Zak

I have met so many new people in my short time in college so far. It is like an entirely new world for me. I now know people from just about every background you could think of and I have made so many new friends. I have also taken the time to really get involved with my university. Going into my second semester I am an executive director for a large student organization, a member of the student government, and I hold a position of leadership in my fraternity. Through these positions I have gained an incredible amount of leadership experience and made valuable connections with faculty members at my university. It has been extremely valuable for me to attend my university as it has opened doors for me through my connections and the experience I have gained from my various activities.

Kyle

So far my college experience has given me so much. Being a student in design I have been able to see myself grow so much as every semester goes by, and watch how much i am improving/how much I am learning. Had I not decided to attend university to persue my art, I would never have been able to see the full extent of my capabilities - though I still have yet to see the full capabilities, I am working everyday to reaching that point. Iowa State University is a beautiful and inspirational learning environment and I know that I will continue to excel as long as I keep up what I have learned/appreciate what I have been given there.

Dale

Throughout my college experience, I've found that it's extremely valuable to attend. Obtaining knowledge, a sense of accomplishment, and an intense drive to succeed, are the ingredients that have made college so valuable for me to attend. Learning is the number one thing I have gotten out of my college experience. While some students take learning for granted, I look forward to everyday that I can learn something new. Francis Bacon stated it perfectly when he said, "Knowledge itself is power." A sense of accomplishment is the encouragement that I use to continue pursuing my education. Every time I complete a class with outstanding grades, I'm instantly compelled to striving for continued excellence. Not to mention I feel extremely good after receiving my outstanding grades. After seeing the effects from my hard word in school, I feel an intense drive to succeed. I know that if I continue to work hard and strive for excellence, I will without a doubt succeed in my career. In conclusion, through obtaining knowledge, a sense of accomplishment, and feeling an intense drive to succeed, are what has made college so valuable for me to attend.

Katie

As of December 18, 2010, I have proudly earned a bachelors degree from Iowa State University. I began my undergrad in 2004. It took me six years to get to where I am today; I have never felt more accomplished. There are several lessons that I have learned from the experiences that I have lived through that made me a stronger person and more confident to persue my future endeavors. The lesson that I found most valuable is friends will come and go but education is forever. No matter how fun a night out is, that night could have been used for studying for a test that is critical to ones GPA. My years at Iowa State have been valuable to my growth as a student and as a person. I started as an awkward, confused student and graduated as a strong, determined woman who will pave the road to success.

Ann

I was the first in my family to graduate from college. My parents both still work manual labor jobs for low wages. It is obvious that I have earned more in my career than they ever would without a degree. I am also very proud of my education and committed to continuing it because I worked hard for it and paid for it myself. I graduated with my bachelor's degree (a major and 2 minors) in 3 years at the age of 20, working two jobs and involved in several clubs and honor societies. I earned a 3.47 GPA with a 3.77 in my major. I know that setting this example for my own children will encourage them to value education the same way I do.

Argentina

Attending college is the best decision I have ever made. Throughout my first year of college I have learned a lot of information and acquired better work -ethics and I know feel more knowledgeable. Interacting with professors has made an impact on my learning process and grades. Asking questions in class has also enhanced my participation and knowledge about the subject. The chose the field of Business because is broad and there are several opportunities in the job market. The transition from High School to college was quite intimidating, but has been of great benefit in my personal life. I am the first one to attend college in my family. I enjoy learning, and telling my mother what I have learned in class. Education is important; education is a value that nobody will be able to take away from me. Being able to go to college also involves studying. I spend several hours studying after class, and preparing myself for exams, quizzes, and projects. College is the best decision I have ever made. In four years, I will graduate in hopes of attending graduate school.

Eric

My time at Iowa State University is a time in my life I hold very dearly and would not trade for the world. I received a first-class education which I will always be proud to have and will undoubtedly serve me well throughout my career and life. I have benefited greatly from the academic and professional network I built and it gives me great comfort to know that I will have this outstanding network of peers as I progress in my future pursuits. Outside of the academic arena, I enjoyed a social atmosphere that is second to none. I built friendships that will last a lifetime and some of the fondest memories I have ever had. My experience at Iowa State was invaluable to me, and one I will hold in the highest regards for the rest of my life.

Neha

I believe at my college, I have been able to experience many things. Professionally, I feel as though I will come out on top. I have learned with any profession, being a educator requires a certain set of skills essential to your success including, responsibility, organization, patience, knowledge etc… and I believe I possess these skills. However, being a teacher requires, in my opinion, one skill above any other, and that is passion. Teachers, although highly regarded in society, are always underpaid and underappreciated. A good educator is someone who is passionate about the profession and passionate about their students. I believe my biggest asset to being a successful teacher is my passion for educating others. The satisfaction felt when seeing a child finally understand how to tie his shoes or do long division is perhaps my greatest skill.

Erica

I have learned things in and outside of the classroom that have proved valuable to my future. The first day of orientation I met five life-long friends, and making new friends didn't stop there. I've also learned a great deal about myself as a person while at college. The most valuable thing that I have gotten out of college; family and friends will always be there for me. If I hadn't attended college I wouldn't have joined the rugby club and traveled to other universities, wouldn't have met friends' parents, wouldn't have felt the real stress that the world has to offer.

KatrinaEven

I have not been here for long, but I have learned a lot about myself. This transition has taught me a lot about my resiliance, values, and strength. It has also exposed me to an incredibly diverse atmosphere. I come from a very small town, and this experience has shown me how to live in the world with people who are incredibly different from me. My most valuable moment so far has discovering my passion (for nutrition) Unfortunately, I spend a lot of time worrying about how I will pay for my time here. This tends to inhibit the fun that I can have.

Shannon

I have met a variety of individuals that have all taught me something in their own way. I've learned not to give up on anything and that the end result makes the constant effort at design projects totally worth it in the end.

Maritza

I'm a student at Iowa State University that came here from Puerto Rico. I wasn't planning to attend a University in the United States, but that one night, four days before classes would start in Iowa State University, I took the challenge to take three planes to see the campus. It was amazing. It was beautiful. That same night, the decision was made: I'm staying in Iowa (what would be considered the middle of nowhere in Puerto Rico). This decision is nothing I regret. Every morning I wake up so glad that I get to go to class and read about the subjects I love; the real preparation for your major. Every morning I wake up to the thought that I will see my new friends. You learn to make your own decisions and pick your own college destiny. The advisors and the offices are always available to help. This was not an experience I was expecting, but every single day is a day to feel proud of being a Iowa State University student. I do not regret this decision. I bet anyone that sees and experiences Iowa State University would end up a proud ISU student.

Willie

For far too long, I’ve lived a life that has not been fulfilling as it should have been. I’m not placing the blame on anyone other than the true reason, me. Poor decision making and prioritizing led me to the edge of a spiritual, mental, and emotional whirlpool which I blindly stepped into. Before I knew it I had been swept away into an undertow of total destruction. With all the potential to make a success of my life, I wasted it away with dreams and aspirations, neither of which was positive or constructive. When my eyes were opened after so many days and nights of living in degradation, I decided to fight back and claim what was rightfully mine. Before this time if you would have told me that my life would consist of more than just menial jobs with cul-de-sac results or that I could ever reach a level of professionalism that could afford me the better quality of life things I would have called you foolish. However, as I challenged myself I found one thing that I had forgotten even existed, and that one thing, as important as it is, was “Hope.”

Samantha

I think it is valuable to attend college for a few reasons. I've only been here about a month, and I have made the friends of a lifetime. There are so many different people, and all of them are just as new as I am. Everyone is so sweet and accepting at college. Its a brand new experience that all students attending high school should consider. I've also become alot more disciplined at college. My college experience has been amazing so far, and I look forward to continuing my college journey.

Carolina

I am currently a freshman in Iowa State University but even though my stay and experience has been very short I can tell you that college is a totally different world. When your in high school you are still being monitored, if you do not do your work you are grilled out the reason of why you did not do it. Here in college it is different with your professors they do not care of the reason of why you did not do your homework, if you did it okay if not that is too bad for you. Here in college you have so much freedom and that becomes a problem. It is very important for you to manage your time well, in order to get things accomplished. You need to make time for both social and academic life so that your life in college is not useless, but sometimes what is the most fun wins over what's more responsible. This is a problem but Iowa State University also has a class for these types of problems. So Iowa State University does not only give you knowlege it also prepares you for the world out there.

Johanna

My college education was not just about learning the fundamentals of my degree program and getting my degree. I developed the most as a person during my college years. I matured emotionally and became my own person during college. I was no longer known as my parent's daughter, or my older sister's sibling. I became known as an intelligent, driven, goal oriented individual who reached for whatever goals I have. During college, I learned how to relate to people and stand up for myself. I learned how to do this with the guidance and support of my professors, peers and co-workers. I was glad that I had the opportunity to obtain a valuable education as well as obtain skills that are valuable to me in the work place and in life.

Tara

So far, I have seen that college is more than attending classes. It is also about meeting new people, forming new friendships, pursuing your interests, and learning about yourself. Studying what you are really interested is also valuable to me. Taking classes that will count towards my major not only motivates me to do the work for those classes, but to push through and graduate so that I may start my future career. Not a day has gone by on campus where I haven't thought of how perfect Iowa State is for me. Its a total package as far as colleges go, for me. I can enjoy studying outside or inside my residence hall den with others or by myself. Before college, I never would have thought that I would enjoy studying! The environment is fantastic, because everybody wants to be here, to be a Cyclone, and to successfully graduate! This makes me feel more encouraged to pursue my carreer goals and enjoy my adventure along the way!

Kesley

College is a life-learning experience that will follow me for the rest of my life. Through this experience I've learned how to live.

Jessica

So far I have only completed one year of college, but within that year I have already had an amazing experience. I feel that everyone should get the experience of college because there is so much that one can learn. I went six hours away to Iowa State University and I have already become more independent and responsible because I no longer have my parents to turn to with every problem I have. I knew no one else that was attending Iowa State which meant that I had to meet all new friends, which was an experience in itself. Everyone was extremely nice and it was not hard to make new lifelong friends. My major is Mechanical Engineering and after my first year of school I already learned enough to have my first internship this summer. This internship has already taught me a lot and I know that as I continue school and my internship that I have much more to learn . College is extremely valuable because it allows you to learn things that you cannot learn from your day to day life. I always knew that I wanted to go to college and this opinion will never change.

Chelsea

I have gotten a lot more out of my college experience than I ever expected. I have made friends that will stay in my life forever. I have gotten a top-notch education by professors that are well-known and prestigious in their fields. I have advisors that have guided me through my many decisons, especially when changing my major. I have been involved in going green, as well as many community services. I also have had a job that is fun and doesn't take up too much of my time. I also have gotten grades I feel I worked hard to acheive and have set my goals for the future. Everything is looking brighter every day for me and I have Iowa State University to thank for this.

Courtney

I have gained a true value of friendship. While at my four year university, I joined a sorority. These women are some of the most driven women I have ever met. I learned freedom and how to take care of myself. I learned self pride, what it means to be me. I think what I learned the most is how to keep my self focused and get things done, but still have fun. In high school, my parents had to always remind me to get things done, but since I have been on my own, I had learned how to handle it all on my own. Whether it be school assignments, a meeting, or bills, I don't need anyone to constantly tell me to do something. I think going to college has made me who I am today on more than just an educational level.

Jake

While attending my first and only year at a community college, I was trying to figure out what career path I wanted or would enjoy and took only general education courses. I wanted more help and courses than my community college was giving me so I decided to move on to the University of my choice. My first semester at Iowa State University, I chose to major in business management because it is such a broad subject that I could get a taste of everything. During that time I was taking an accounting course that I did really well in so I started looking at career paths with mathematics. During my second, which is my current, semester here, I'm taking a computer programming course. I've noticed that many people have great difficulty in this course, but I've found it to be very easy and fun. Now that my second semester is coming to an end, I've discovered what career path that I want to choose. If I didn't attend this university as soon as I did, I wouldn't have found what I liked to do and what I'm good at.

Jordan

There is a quote from alumnus MJ Riggs inscribed above the entrance to our Memorial Union: ?We come to college not alone to prepare to make a living, but to learn to live a life.? I have never been the traditional student, usually doing things a bit differently than my peers. My choices often mean that rather than taking the beaten path, I forge on my own through new territory. Iowa State has been the perfect place in which to do exactly that. I wound up here almost on accident, but as I look back, I realize I have had a combination of experiences that I literally could not have had at any other school. Aside from their individual value, my diverse range of experiences have all influenced and been influenced by each other, giving me unique perspective on life and a deep understanding of myself as a person and community member. That cavalcade of activity unearthed a desire to choose a career in student affairs. I may have never realized that had I been less involved. College has not simply prepared me for my future, it has changed my future. I have truly prepared to live my life.

crystal

I have gotten alot out of college it has been great.

Paige

I could not ask for anything more out of Iowa State University. My school did an excellent job at putting activities and organizations together to help freshman meet new people and make new friends. During the beginning of the year, I not only was given the chance to meet people from other states but other countries as well. Living away from home has developed myself as an independent young adult. I work hard to pay for most of my college with the money, I have saved up from working, to help prevent my parents from taking out a loan.

Jose

College isn't always easy, it's up to the student to earn his grades and stay on top of his studies and homework. I personally have learned to manage my time more efficiently and prioritize my studies so that I can raise my GPA and maintain it until I graduate. I have made my mistakes with school, and I am dealing with an unwanted low GPA and I'll be working on it. College is fun, but you must know your priorities and learn to take care of business when it comes down to it.

Molly

I have grown as a person and learned what it is like to depend on myself for the things I need. I have become a much stronger and more independant person. I have also learned a lot from the courses I have taken. Attending college helps you to have a different view on many subjects and I think that is the most valuable experience that I have gotten out of it.

Michael

In those dark lonely nights when you're staying up late to finish that paper you put off to the last minute, or those days when its hard to care about that homework you've been dreading since last week, just remember one simple idea: this is your future, seize upon the opportunity and do the absolute best you can. It will take determination, perseverance, and hard work but your actions today and for the next few years will allow you to live a happy life doing the kind of work you've always dreamed of. When you succeed and push on to the next level you will be surrounded by supportive people who have worked just as hard to be where you're at who will enrich your life. The college life will teach you how to be an independant, successful, and happy person but only after you've overcome the mistakes and roadblocks that are sure to be ahead. Be determined, perseverant, and hard working while always keeping one thing in mind: This is my future, I will seize the day, and I will succeed.

Heather

Work really hard over the summer and save up money, when you get to college, you're given many free options like working out at the on-campus gym and craft nights, but when you start to join clubs and activites, it can cost anywhere from $25 dollars a semester for dues to $2000 or more is you join a sorority or fraternity. Even if you live in an apartment, it starts to add up, cleaning supplies, toliet paper, groceries, and the occasional eating out. Then you have to think about books, try to find out your books ahead of time and order them from somewhere like amazon.com, copy the ISBN number, and after the first week of classes, you can decide which to sell because you don't need them and which to keep. Books from the campus bookstore can cost $500 or more! In high school, start to keep track of what you spend your money on, so that way you can adjust your habits if you need to before college. And you're going to get a lot of letters for credit cards, have one, use it once and month, and pay it back right away!!

Clayton

get more involved in groups and talk more to adults to gain self confidence

Nicholas

Dear Nick, Rely on your decision-making ability because it will lead you to achieving and generating valuable opportunities to you latter in life. In your pursuit of a major in Forestry become active in Forestry Club and Society of American Foresters. These groups will provide necessary networking, which creates possible job opportunities. Always strive for more. By creating an independent study in Aspen regeneration for biomass production you will have a chance to a look into professional research. Internships are valuable experience. Do not pass up the Army Corps of Engineers or Soybean Breeding internships. Your time is the most valuable object you have. You will need to block off your schedule so you can manage your busy agenda. This will allocate your resources efficiently making you more productive. With this extra time you will free up invest in yourself by reading. Investing in yourself will better you as a person, which will improve every aspect of your life. Finally set goals, write them down, and keep them in front of you. I heard one time that; a person that doesn?t know where he is going, never gets there. The one and only, You, me,? Nick Bruss

Miles

I would let myself know that homework in college is entirely different from homework in high school. Most homework in college is for your benefit, and they only assign a minimal amount. Doing homework is a big part of understanding material, especially in classes that are large lectures. Also, even though this is a difficult school and it can be busy, be sure to make time to just have fun. Join clubs, look at fraternities, play games.

Maria

If I were to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself about finances, the importance of technology, and I would also surprise myself with how much I will love going to school. When I first entered college, I did not realize how much it would affect my pocketbook. My textbooks cost five times as much as I estimated, and many classes required additional materials. I would tell myself that I needed to set an additional amount outside of tution for textbooks and supplies, and to buy used books when appropriate. I would also stress using the many online resources available to a new student. I took many trips to the local campus to apply for admission, when I could have handled it all in a fraction of the time at home on my computer. The most important piece of advice I would give myself is to enjoy college. My first college class was very different from my high school classes, and it was a relief. I would have been better prepared for college life if I had known about finances, technology, and how much I would end up enjoying college.

Gabriel

If offered the chance to go back in time and offer advice to myself I don?t think I would go. Sometimes what makes life most exciting is the unpredictability. Learning to roll with the punches, and deal with situations as they occur is what helps us to grow as individuals. Character comes from situations that often times would have been avoided had we known the outcomes beforehand. Say perhaps I had advised a younger me to take calculus in high school. I would not have taken it in college or been frustrated to the point of changing major to what is now my passion, agriculture. To those younger than me I offer them this. Do the best you can at what you love, work hard because nothing that is worth having comes easy, but enjoy your work along the way. Recognize your blessings when you feel down, you still have it pretty good. College is a time of maximum freedom with minimum responsibility, enjoy responsibly.

Molly

The most important piece of advice that I would give myself is that college is more challenging than high school, but don't underestimate yourself. By working hard and staying focused a strong GPA is within reach. Don't be afraid to ask quetions when struggling in a course. It's not that you're not as smart as everyone else; others most likely have the same question. You may feel uncomfortable acknowledging that a course is hard for you but seek additional assistance when needed. The reward of achievement is worth all the humbling moments. I would also advice myself to step out of your comfort zone andtake advantage of the opportunities available across campus to try new things. Don't be shy, be confident in yourself; contrary to what you think, not everyone is watching you and casting judgment. Try new hobbies, attend events that you normally wouldn't and volunteer; it may be the most rewarding way to meet new people and learn more about you. Throughout it all stay true to yourself, work hard and make the course work your number one priority, but along the way have fun and explore all facets of yourself.