James Madison University Top Questions

There are many things I have gotten out of my experience so far, the most important thing though is that I have learned how to be independent and what it is like to live in the real world. This experience has prepared me for my future and has never made me more excited to actually get out there and make a living for myself. This is valuable to me at least because it gives me the confidence I need in myself to know that I WILL be sucessful no matter what, and wont let anyone stop me from reaching my dreams of living in NYC and working the music industry. JMU has provided me with knowledge I need to do this and the also the experience I need to move forward and complete these goals.

Even though I have only attended college for less than a year, I have learned how I wanted to prioritize my life. At the beginning of the school year, I expected what every college freshman girl imagined of their college career. I imagined going out partying with all my girlfriends, meeting boys, dancing, and staying up until 2 AM. I soon learned that I wasn't paying tuition to go partying. I wanted to gain valuable experience and knowledge to prepare myself for my career. So I left the the partying crowd, not that I don't like to go out once in a while, but I mainly focus myself on schoolwork and more important activities. I was already hired for a paid internship for this summer and also for a job during both exam weeks. As a student with a major in accounting, in a very competitive business program, I need to apply myself diligently. You're only at college for so long in your life, and once I graduate, I want to know that I got the most out of it during my four years here. I value college as much as my future.

Coming into James Madison University, I was an extremely introverted, timid person who didn't speak much. I was never the social butterfly. I always enjoyed having my alone time. Now, I am proud to say I am as social as I have ever been and still have my personal time. Although I am just a freshman, I have joined about five organizations, completed over eight service activities and am in the process of joining a sorority. Because of my determination to be proactive, I have befriended over fifty people involving facutly, staff, and students and gotten to know each and everyone of them whom remember my name. Another issue comming into JMU was the racial diversity; the campus is predominantly Caucasian. Despite this fact, I am not treated differently by them and I see and meet international students as well as other minorities everyday. I've come to know that a statistic does not truly represent the diversity on campus. Diversity entails not only background, religion, ethnicity and gender but also perspectives, and past experiences. Such experiences as these and others shape how I will uphold my persona after graduation and for the rest of my lifetime.

In freshmen year of high school, I recall watching a show called "Fear Factor" in which contestants would be pushed to their limits and be challenged to complete an obsticle. Whether it was facing their own fears or venturing into the unknown, only one person was capable of completing the show. Now, as I sit in my dorm as a freshmen in college, I recall all those episodes of "Fear Factor" and imagine myself in it, except, the obsticle is college itself. So far, college has been challeging me to the point in which I would not have known the capabilities of my own strength; staying past midnight studying for a test, reading the unbelievable amounts of lecture, and working my brain to memorize the outrageous amounts of information. College has forced me to dive into my fears of failing, and has pulled me into the darkness of the unknown of my future. It has truly challenge me, even though it is just the beginning. As of right now, all I know is the discovered abilities of my own strength, and that only one person can win the show, and so far, college has proved to me that its me.

I came to James Madison University in Fall 2009 after attending an all-girls catholic school. It was a complete culture shock for me because I had never been outside my little conservative Towson bubble. While JMU is not the most diverse school, it has given me an outlet and an opportunity to meet, study with, and befriend a wide variety of people who I would have never had the chance to meet at home. It has truly broadened my horizons with a constant stream of on-campus activities where everyone interacts with the goal to make friends. I feel like James Madison has forced me to come out of my shell and open my mind to new experiences and people. While other schools can be academically competitive, I feel that JMU students are more community driven and are always there to help out a friend. This support has made the transition from highschool to college smooth and that is invaluable. I know I made the right choice when I chose to attend James Madison University and I will forever be a Duke Dog!

Thusfar, my college experience has been a test; I mean it wholeheartedly. It has tested my intelligence and my capabilities to employ critical thinking strategies. It is a springboard for my future in Medicine. Here, I train. Like an athlete, I practice, practice, practice and study, study, study until I arrive at what trumps satisfactory. The pursuit of excellence is why I am here. James Madison has fashioned me to think on my feet, all the while coercing me to see that there's always more than one right answer. Life is not black and white, rather it is a centrifuge of all colors meshed together. Grey has become my new favorite color. What separates us seems to dwindle in the face of our commonalities. If it wasn't for my university, hope for a brighter future would not be here on the shoulders of many.

Before going to college, I had an instant desire to be popular and fit in with almost everyone in my school. However, when I moved into my dorm I was stuck in a triple in which both my roommates left me out in almost every social outgoing. I felt like the 3rd wheel since I did not act and look like them. In addition, they would do as they please and not care about my personal safety when they went out partying. I did not know how to be assertive and this experience helped me challenge my inner shy mentality and become a tougher individual. College helped me realize that being popular and fitting in is not the most important part of a collegiate experience. It helped me open my mind, become assertive and live in difficult circumstances. If I had not attended college, I would have stayed superficial and look at the wrong things to fulfill my happiness. I realized it is better to not fit in and stay unique than to go with the crowd and go against your values and beliefs. I stayed sober my freshman year and my difficult roommate experience indicated my strong resiliance.

I have learned allot from from college. The standards of you work is much higher in college. Its not like in high school where you could not study and get an A or a B+. In college to get an A you have too study. When I say study I don't mean cram the night before but, study regularly. In college after doing terrible the first couple of weeks, college has taught me time management skills. I can no longer procrastinate as much as I used to because there is usually several assignments due at the same time. With that said college isn't all about having fun and going to parties. From my experience college is about studying hard for for your classes and doing well then setting aside time for partying and hanging out with friends. I think overall college has made me a better person. I feel more prepared for the future.and Ive made many great friends in college. Everyone should go to college its worth it.

I have had the experience of a lifetime at JMU, and I honestly never want to leave. I have gained friends that I know I will have for the rest of my life. I have gotten a quality education, and I absolutely love what I am studying because of the professors and friends I have made. The school spirit on this campus is insane, and everyone is friendly and wants everyone else to succeed. I know that after I graduate, I will have everything I need to succeed, and I know that will be because I attended this wonderful school. Going to school out of state was a scary thought at first, but it helped me become an independent person. Choosing to go to school at James Madison University was the best decision I have ever made, and I can not imagine going to any other school. Go Dukes!

I have gained a sense of self by going back to college. The last time I attended college was 1993. I got into the work force and became accustom to earning money. The Years went by and I always felt as though my intelligence diminished with my youth and that I was too old to return to school. Choosing to go back to college was the best thing I could have done for myself. I have gained knowledge, friendships and strong self esteem. Getting an education is invaluable at any age.

The ability to hold on to my own beliefs, morals, and thoughts about life while being thrown into an atmosphere including new radical beliefs and conformity has strengthened while attending James Madison University. I've learned to be more sure of what I think while being open to new ideas and becoming comfortable with my views changing as my experiences grow. I've been helped by people just like me and very different from me. The general feeling I've had while being here is marvel that so much difference can happen in a place that doesn't appear to have too many differences. What I've seen and gone through has improved me as a person, and has helped me contain a grasp of who I am, as that person changes everyday.

I have learned so much about myself through my college experience. I have learned that succeeding your goals is a huge accomplishment. Hard work pays off, and your not there to make friends, they are just a bonus. Homework doesn't have to take over your life, and you can be who you want to be. I have learned how hard of a worker I really am, and that I can be vocal, and I'm not afraid to ask for help. College has been one of the best experiences of my life, and I wouldn't change it for anything!

The most amazing thing I gained from my college experience was opportunities to learn and respect cultural diversity. While at JMU I was able to travel and study abroad, engage in community service learning across the United States, and become a lifelong member of Alpha Sigma Tau Sorority. I gained by B.S. of Nursing from JMU in December 2009. While I enjoy nursing in Washington, D.C. and still continue to grow in my professional career - I am eager to return to school to obtain a second bachelors degree in Zoology. Working with animals and preserving their habitat, as well as our own, has been a childhood dream. Having grown and matured, I realize that my ambitions and life goals are more clear and focused. Obtaining this scholarship will aid in my personal, professional and academic growth and development.

In my short time being at college so far, I have learned so much about my self already. People tell you that you truly fi nd yourself in college and I always kind of blew it off thinking they were crazy for saying that, I thought I already knew who I was.In these short couple of months I have been at JMU as a freshman, I have learned that I am really not as outgoing as I thought I was, the college workload is totally different from high school, professors expect a lot more out of you then high school teachers did, and that I actually miss my family a great deal (who would have thought?). I know these next four years are going to be the best ones of my life. The college experience so far has been valuable to me to understand that life is not as easy as I thought it was, one can not just skate by doing the bare minimum. If someone truly wants to exceed in life, they need to go above and beyond the minumum and that is just what I plan on doing, to be the best person I possibly can.

I have gained so much knowledge and real-life experiences from attending college. I was able to pursue the major of my choice and take part in volunteer services within the community and be enrolled in an internship at an agency related to the type of work I am pursuing. I have gained valuable skills such as time managment, communication, public speaking, team work, research, critical thinking, and much more. My college experience was a wonderful growing experience and I wish to earn a Master's degree to continue my education and reach my college of becoming a therapist to help the children and adolscents of our society who are struggling to deal and cope with their lifes' circumstances.

College has been a valuable experience for me because it has made me a stronger person. Being in a new enivornment that is away from all my loved ones, as well as an environment populated by students who seem to do nothing but drink and party has made "my skin a little bit thicker," so to speak. It has taught me to stand my ground and not to change my morals just because my surroundings have changed. I have learned a great deal about independence; being away has taught me a lot about what it will be like once I move into my own home. I have attained a greater sense of responsibility because I am by myself.

In my college career so far I have gotten to experience a whole new world. I came from a small town and have grown up with the same select few people over the years. Coming to college, I have met all new people from all over the world. I have learned about diversity and that everyone has a unique story and background. College has also taught me that if you want something bad enough you are going to have to work for it. I have realized that hard work, dedication, and a strong mind and work ethic are all needed to accomplish anything in life. It has been valuable to attend college because I have learned that nothing in life comes easy; it is up to you to put forth the effort and drive in order to succeed. I have gotten so much out of college thus far, and I cannot wait to see what lurks ahead as I further my education.

I am loving my current college experience. I am committed to finishing my education so I can go on to start a rewarding career. More importantly, I am showing my daughters that no matter how old you are, or whatever situation you are in, a college education is always an important acheivement. I feel that I am so much more capable of completing my education now, than when I was a young adult. Even though my life is so much more hectic, I am more mature, know how to budget my time better and happier to be attending classes. By being committed to succeeding, I have learned how to study better, how to take tests better and how to communicate better. This has helped in all aspects of my life, not just my immediate education.

My college experience so far has been insightful. I am able to get an understanding of the importance in pursuing higher education. I have learned to maintain focusing and scheduling for the benifit of not falling behind. Attending college is valuable because, without that education it is hard to make it in the world we live in.

There are so many things that students may benefit at comunity colleges or even universities. The one aspect that may stop that is the person themselves. It is now my second year at a community college and I barely started getting involved in school. Applying to many clubs and meeting new people only makes life easier and helps expand my social network. It is not what you know, but who you know these days. As I see many people leave El Camino with thousands of dollars that they do not need to repay, I begin to see the importance of these different clubs and organizations. Attending these differnt programs have helped me think outside the box and has allowed me to expand my view on life. Our society is going through rough times and it is only me who can decide whether I will make it or not.

I am a highly indecisive individual, so deciding which school to attend was a struggle. When I did pick JMU, I just had to hope that I would like it. When I arrived on campus in the fall of 2009, something clicked and I fell in love with the school. Even now, I could not imagine being any place else. There have definitely been some struggles, but the environment at JMU has allowed those difficult experiences to help me grow into a stronger, wiser student and individual. College, for me, has been a time for self-discovery. I came in as an undeclared student, and have found a major I want. I still have no idea what I will choose as a career path, but I know that at JMU I have the resources and opportunity to explore my interests and find what is right for me. I have met many other students and professors that have helped me expand my horizons and view the world with a broader perspective. I am discovering how to become the person I want to be. College, especially at JMU, is more than an education; it is a valuable, life-shaping experience.

The most valueable thing i have learned form college so far is that i have finally discovered that i am good at learning. I did not do to well in high school, I never applied my self. Now that i am out of the marines i have alot more drive to succeed in life. I have been doing so well in school, and i have never felt so good about going to school and learning as much as possible. Going to college has made me realize that i do not have to settle for a back breaking job like construction, not that construction is a bad career choice, but i can do somthing greater with my military backround and a good education. I never reaized that i was good at math until i started college. I was really bad at math in high school, now i am in my second semester of math and i still have an A. Im excited to finish my education and see what doors open for me in the future.

From freshman to graduation, we are constantly challenging the limits of ourselves, and what we know to be true. A challenge that drives us to learn all that we can, and to always question what is suppose to be truth. Having a well balanced education is a wonderful foundation to start the career of dreams with. Taught to always seek truth, and justce, I take with me the courage, and determination to see my dreams through.

So far I have fit in perfectly here at JMU. And it's easy to find your niche if you aren't afraid to go out and look for it. The classes here are great too, though I'm sure it depends on how willing you are to learn as well as your teacher. Overall 10/10

I think that college has made me stronger as a person, as well as more responsible. College is a big step up from high school and something I had to adjust too. It makes me feel good when I am walking on campus and sitting in classes to know I am doing something that will help me in the future; as well as make me feel more accomplished as a person. I also participate in a varsity sport and I feel priveleged each day to be a part of that. Even though college can be stressful and money situations are tight and tough, I know that it will all be worth it in the end; to earn a great education, to be a part of a team, and make friends that could last a lifetime.

I gained a sense of independance when I started attending college, and I think this is important for young adults. I've also learned to plan ahead, and to make your future happen, no one will hand it to you! My grades, my classes, my success is up to me and how I handle what is given to me. I am not only getting an invaluable education that will help me be successful in life, but I'm also gaining life skills. I've learned so much about myself; how I learn best as well as how I don't learn and what kind of person I want to be based on the students I see around me. I think college is so important for every young man and women for so many reasons, and that everyone should at least try it! Its a growing, adapting, scary and great experience all wrapped up in one.

So far, college has been one of my most tremendous transitions I have ever been through. Living here on my own is something I am not use to. Living with other friends and not with my parents is really weird at first. It has taught me to be really independent and how to do things I am normally not use to doing on my own. I clean my room all the time because it all is mine and I like my space to be clean. I cook for myself and am responsible for myself for once. Academically, I am doing something for myself. I am trying to succeed in whatever I do and reach my fullest potential. I have became much more responsible for my work and what I do. I think coming to college is a reality check. I'm learning to be on my own and not under my parent's supervision anymore. I love it and I am so thankful to be able to experience such a life changing aspect of life!

Throughout the first half of my college experience, I have grown as an individual tremendously. In an attempt to gain all that I can from my college experience, I have taken a wide array of classes that have allowed me to view the world in a new, hollistic, and refreshing light. I feel that knowledge is power and is key to an individuals success in life. Therefore, I take great pride in striving to be all that I can be when it comes to being a successful and progressive college student. I have also established a new friend base while attending college that is sure to provide me with lasting friendships and many years of enjoyment to come. All in all, I feel that the essence and overall point of college is not merely to obtain a degree in pursuit of a luxurious and money-hungry lifestyle--undoubtedly the downfall of the occassional college student, but rather it is to gain an array of knowledge that is inspirational and motivational to you as an individual all the while achieving your dreams for a better and more fulfilling life--which I feel like I am well on my way to accomplishing.

There are many things I have learned thanks to attending college. For one, I learned that college is expensive but with the right grades, and mindset; grants and scholarships are presented to the less fortunate or the intellectuals. College has also taught me to be more responsible. My classes would start at different times and I did not have someone to remind me to go to class or about upcoming tests. I had to make sure I studied for my tests and did my homework. I learned that college prepares everyone for the real world. Many people cannot afford to go to college but the people who can go should know that it is a privilage. The experiences I received from my classmates and teachers have been very enriching. I have benefited in all ways possible. I have an A.A. degree which promises me a high income in the job market and a great job career in the future. Spending a few years in college will pay off for me and will do the same for anyone else that attends college. If not for college, I would not be who I am today and I'm thankful for it.

I have learned to value my time and budget my activities accordingly. I have met many new people and trust that most of them will be lifelong aquaintances. I hope to become a physicians assistant in the future so completing my education is crutial.

College has provided an outside into the intensity of completion out in the world. With professors that have much experience in their fields. College is nothing compared the high school. Without the college insight into the academic demand and competition, it would have been an immense shock and struggle for me if I had entered the medical field right after high school. In college, I have gotten more connections, advice, and a wider idea of what I am getting myself to, and how I can contribute to our community.

My college experience so far has been amazing! I have not only learned a lot but i have also connected with my teachers. I have never been in a situation where i did not like my professors and i think that being comfortable in college is something very important. I have not only connected with my teachers but i have with students as well. Being surrounded with warm hearted people, makes your college experience so much more rewarding. I would say that this factor in itself is the most valuable thing that i have been given in my college experience. Working with people who care about their education just as much as you, makes learing more rewarding and changelling in a way. Attending Whatcom Community College has changed my outlook on education. The staff and students at this school, understand what it means to work hard and reap the highest standards of achievment and this is why it has been such a valuable experience to attend!

I have learned many skills related to my field of study (physical therapy) as well as skills that will be useful in life in general. I have learned how to work with others in an effective way as well as how to present information to others. I have learned ways to help the environment and to be aware of other cultures around us and to want to explore these different cultures. I have found people who will remain my friends throughout my life and a boyfriend who I hope to marry some day. Academically I have learned chemistry, physics, biology, anatomy, physiology and more health related classes that will help me to succeed as I pursue my career as a physical therapist.

I could easily tell you about the classes I have attended; the ones I?ve excelled in and the ones where I?ve struggled, but college is about more than attending classes. College is about establishing relationships and learning about the world around you and, most importantly, about yourself. I?ve always been a social person, but my college experience has made me more confident and knowledgeable about the world. My parents did a wonderful job in raising me to know about the world outside our front door, but they could not possibly expose me to life in the ways that college has. I have encountered people from all over the world and with all different views throughout these past years. I can only expect that this will aid me in the future when I?m expected to interact with people in the ?real world.? I have gained a better understanding of what it takes to be a good leader and plan to continue to cultivate these qualities within myself. I could not have become the person I am today without attending James Madison University. I cannot wait to see how much more I will grow in my last semesters.

I have attained and learned from many personal and professional experiences during the course of my undergraduate program at James Madison University. I have always wanted to be a nurse who values the significance of life, formation of relationships with human kind, and promotion of health and well-being. I have attained many noteworthy feats such as a sense of accomplishment, attainment of higher levels of academic knowledge, and ultimately the realization that as individuals we are morally and ethically responsible for being catalyst agents when revolutionizing our world. As a result of attaining my undergraduate degree in nursing, I formulated a personal goal entailing the enrollment and ultimate attainment of a graduate degree in nursing. I am currently enrolled at Walden University and thus far have successfully completed each course. Although this college experience is rather unique, since it is solely online, I truly value this wonderful opportunity to attain such a higher degree of learning. Our nation is witnessing great reform within the health care arena, and as an aspiring nurse leader the attainment of this degree will only advance the vast opportunities for me to leave an imprint as a nurse professional within our health care system.

I have gotten so much out of my college experience. Great friends, great classes, and a great opportunity to succedd. The faculty really encourages me to keep going, and my friends encourage me to do well. The school has so many social options that it is hard not to make friends, and especially with how friendly people are, it is really hard to not continue to be happy here. I loved being here for football games, movies on campus, dining halls, sporting events, and mostly the Quad in the spring. I love this campus, and I loved being here! I could not imagine attending another university.

Courtney, please stop putting all of your energy into high school. The world is so much bigger and you are going to love college. JMU is the right place for you to go, stop second-guessing yourself. You will end up where you are meant to be. Also, in the beginning of college it will be hard. You will feel alone amidst 16,000 people. Yes, that is possible. Just know that you will make amazing life-long friends. Be active your first semester, do not be shy. Get out there and get involved in groups that interest you. Yes, academics are important, but pouring yourself into volunteer organizations will make your experience that much better. Get to know yourself and stick to your values and what you believe. There will be a lot thrown at you making you question things that you have thought were true. You investigate for yourself. Do not take someone's word for it. Find out for yourself-the journey is amazing.

As a high school senior my world was so small that when I came to James Madison University I felt like a spot on a map. There are so many things to get involved with in college, but it is a lot easier to get lost in the crowd. To talk to myself as a naive 18 year old high school graduate would mean that I could tell myself to be prepared and ready to not give into peer pressure to drink and instead get involved as much as you can on campus. There are so many clubs and organizations that have changed my life, but I wasn't prepared when I first came into this world. If I could have gotten involved as a freshman, instead of a sophomore and junior, I could have helped that many more people and learned so much more from my experiences here. My example is with the Alternative Break Program. Last year I went to Cherokee Nation to work at the Head Start Program and during this upcoming Spring Break I will be co-leading a trip El Progreso, Honduras. I wish I could have went on a trip freshman year as well.

If I could go back to being a high school senior, knowing what I know now about college life and making the transition, the advice I would give myself is to get the best grades I can get so that I can receive scholarships. I would also tell myself that studying and focusing on the concentration on my grades is the most important contributing factor that will help me during my college life. I would tell myself to associate myself with people that share a common interest in obtaining a degree and that college friends are a lot different than high school.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself, I would tell myself to listen to what my parents had to say about college. Yes, it seems wonderful to go away to college and live on your own. I would tell myself that, although I?m making new friends, it is lonely and stressful being so far away (6 hours) from my family and friends. Stay closer to home during the first 2 years and then transfer. Most Colleges and Universities have my major and usually the first 2 years are general education classes anyway. Take the time to adjust to living on your own while still being close to home (2-3 hours). When homesickness attacks, it?s just a short drive home.

College is an adventure, it seems like it could drag on for four years but it goes by faster than you think. My whole thought process is that these are four years where you can really explore yourself and step away from your parents and be on your own. For most it is scary but don't let that hold you back, push yourself outside of your comfort zone. You will not regret the mistakes, the people you meet, the things you learn, or where you find yourself even just two years into a wonderful experience. Do not get wrapped up in others intrests really take the time to be honest and open because that is the only way you know who you can and will be. In other words, embrace it. Embrace the challenges, the successes, the friendships, the over all experience. Its corney but embrace your future and live with no regrets.

I would tell myself to brace myself because the next four years are gonna be the best four years of my life.

There are two things that I would say to myself, although knowing my 18-year old self, I probably wouldn't listen to the advice. The first thing I would try to ingrain in my stubborn self is not to be so cocky and arrogant about my academic abilities and go to class. I went into my freshman year very confident in my abilities and did not study outside of class or even go to all of my classes because I didn't think it was necessary. Consequently, my grades suffered that first year but I have since developed very successful study habits to which I can attribute my newlyfound high grades. The second piece of wisdom that I would impress on myself is to be extremely careful to successfully balance work and pleasure. My freshman year, I partied way too much and did not fully grasp the importance of performing well academically. Now, I care about the quality of work I produce and wait to party until the work that needs to be done is completed. Being able to balance work and play is a lifelong skill that is vital for collegiate success. This is what I would say.

First, start looking for scholarships! Begin looking for them around the beginnning of October and make sure that you keep scholarship deadlines marked on a calendar where they are easily visible. File your FAFSA! Regarding universities -- go with your intuition! You will love some of the teachers at JMU and they will help you learn to think and learn for yourself. Finally, stay involved! Don't let the volunteering slip just because you are in a new town and have no car. It is important to get off campus every now and then -- and NOT only to party. That being said- keep up with the studying and don't fall behind! You'll do great! :)

Don't base your decision on "getting far away from here." Its not necessarily about where you are on the globe, but rather the quality and atmosphere of the school you choose. If you visit and it feels right, it probably is.

Discipline is crucial. The hardest part of the college transition is trying to stay organized. Living in the dorms creates constant choices. What should I eat? Should I study or get on Facebook? Go party or sleep? It?s extremely easy to fall off track. I?d remind myself how much better I feel when I?m living a healthy lifestyle. It?s easy to say, ?Yes? and indulge in that extra dessert or third plate of food at D-hall, but the after effects just aren?t worth it. Exercise is also a must in college. It?s hard to find time in an already packed schedule, but hitting up the gym gives me energy to be more productive and makes me feel ten times better. Then there?s the partying, and there?s always partying and always pressure to go. The key is moderation. Learning to say no isn?t easy, but it?s really important if I?m going to be at my best and make the grades. Overall, college gives one an enormous amount of freedom, but it?s up to me to make smart lifestyle choices and have the discipline to stick with them.

Spend more time with your family. I know they may get on your nerves every once in a while and they let you be by yourself, but as cheesy as it sounds you will miss the way your brother annoys you or how your sister always wants to spend time with you. You won't be able to have that same relationship with your suitemates or you will be miserable. Also, enjoy every last morsel of food your parents make for you. Even in the school that has the fourth best food in the nation, it gets old after a while and nothing can compare to Kim's homemade potato soup. Finally, be more active in high school. Join mor eclubs that sctually contribute to the school and go to prom because it will make you more outgoing and make it easier to transition into college life where there are a lot of things to do.

I went to a small high school and never thought about competition for spots, teams, or committees increasing as I transitioned to a larger school environment. I never had to put very much effort into applying or trying out for things because I knew I was going to get what I wanted due to the sponsor knowing me, or due to a small application pool. Now I am at a large college and have tried to get involved in committees that have an extensive try out. There are many application questions, references, group interviews and then individual interviews. The people interviewing do not recognize your name when they read it on their paper. They do not know who you are, so you have to make it clear during your interview while maintaining a professional appearance. If I could go back to my senior year, I would take classes on interviewing etiquette and practice with teachers that I trust. I would want as much constructive criticism possible, so I could reach my highest potential for this process.

People usually make the mistake in going into something with their eyes closed. Life has its twists and turns but really, life is what you make of it. I chose to go through college and attain an education because I figured education was important and valuable for me, later on. People don't respect you or much less listen to you unless you are intelligent, talented, or rich. When I was in high school, I thought I knew where I wanted to be. I wanted do something in the medical field. I took some dual enrollment classes my senior year because I knew somehow it would advance me. However, that last year in high school, I had a lot of emotional stress due to my immediate family and a few car accidents. I felt like I wasn't worth anything and no one was listening. If I were able to go back in time, yeah, I would have liked more support. While I was in college, I found that if no one wants to help you, you might as well do it yourself. Now, I have an associate's in medical technology and plan on continuing through the Air Force.

There is so much that I would need to say to myself as a high school senior, but I'll stick to what would apply to the discussion at hand. The first thing I would need to say is that I would, in fact, survive the next five years, so going to college would actually matter. So would studying. I would also have to tell myself that it's best to get college out of the way early. I'm approching 30 now, and disappointed that I still have no degree thanks to my skills at procrastination. Unfortunately, when you get right down to it, this whole question is moot. Doing something like this would actually create a kind of "Granfather Paradox", or it would occur in a parallel reality. That is to say that if I went back in time to have this little chat, and it changed my past, I would never have needed to go back in time in the first place, and thus the paradox. Time travel is nice in theory, and in fiction, but there's little point in seriously discussing going back through time right now. Maybe one day, though.