Kansas State University Top Questions

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

Monica

If I could go back in time, I would tell myself that the key to living the college experience to its fullest is to step outside of my comfort zone. College is all about finding yourself. It is only when you do things that you would not normally do, that you really grow as an individual. You will not truly enjoy college until you open up to all of the opportunitites that are right in front of you. You have to make a conscious effort to get involved on campus and to meet new people. Do not be scared to change your major, join clubs, talk to your professors, or volunteer. You should try new things, become a leader, give back to the community, and network with students, faculty, and alumni. Getting a degree is not the only thing you should take away from your college experience.

Meghan

Do not worry about small things, boyfriends, drama, etc. Put yourself out there, step out of the box. Staying in your comfort zone only limits you.

Kelli

Don't let yourself get distracted by anything, doing horrible the first semester is a hard thing to come back from.

Hannah

Don't stress! It goes by fast so make the most of every moment.

Nathan

You're not always going to have the answers. Sometimes you'll just have to wait. It may seem like the universe conspires against you at times, but as long as you keep your faith, you'll understand why things turn out the way they do. For every answer, there will always be more questions, so be pre-pared. Know that you are increditable person and know just because you may not believe there are people who think you are and they'll tell you. You have A LOT to learn and you'll just keep on learning making REAL, TRUE friends long the way (You'll find them in the oddest places-like in shoe aisles). You'll reach some goals and make even better ones along the way. With your determination, you'll be able to succeed at anything you do. Things may not turn out the way you think, but some good always comes of it. -Keep your heart open and love will always find its way in.-Jane Seymor. Most importantly, remember There are no such things as mistakes. If it was good, then it was wonderful. If it was bad, then it was an experience.

Sami

When looking back at the time when I was a high school senior I would tell myself that I need to plan out where I would go to college to match the major that I want to persue. I went to Emporia State for my freshmen year and had to transfer to Kansas State because my major was not offered at Emporia State. Also, I would search for more scholarships before I left for college. If I would have done that I probably could have gotten school even cheaper than I got it. I would also not decide my college based on where my friends are going, because if I would have just went to Kansas State in the first place I would have had a much better opportunity to make new friends outside of high school.

LeAnn

Hello me. Yeah, I'm from the future. Of course you need proof, look at the bookmark in our favorite book. The quote on it reads, "I arise in the morning torn between a desire to improve the world and a desire to enjoy the world. This makes it hard to plan the day.? Yes, by E.B. White. Okay now that I have your attention, I must say that I know you strive for perfection and that is not anything I would ever demean you for. I just want you to remember that the future is yours and your dreams are waiting. I know that beautiful 4.0 GPA seems like everything now, and don't get me wrong it has its place, but never lessen the impact of the knowledge gained outside of a textbook. Years from now you will look back and think, yeah, it was worth it to push myself, but what I remember more than that calculus final and more than the 10-page, multi-edited essay, is the dreams I chose to pursue and the memories I made with others. You control tomorrow, make it yours and make it great.

C.J.

The first thing that I would of done would be to take an accounting course in high school because that is the major that I have decided. This would have given me a better understanding of accounting. Next, I would have applied to even more scholarships, because I didn't realize how expective college was untill all the bills came in for tuition, room and board, books, and other various expences that I had to pay for. That is one reason why I am applying for more scholarships during my freshman year. I also would talk to more of my friends who are at Kansas State and ask them various questions about college, their classes, and what to expect my first semester of college. Socially I wish I would of hungout and talked to more people in my class besides my close friends and teammates during my senoir year. I have realized that I miss alot of friends and other classmates because we all went our sperate ways for college. I haven't seen some of my friends yet since high school, but I do get the chance to communicate with them on facebook.

Kristin

The first piece of advice I would give myself as a high school senior would be to enjoy my last few months of high school, because they really flew by! I would have made sure to warn the younger version of me about my first week here at KSU, because I had quite the experience with my first roommate. However, I would make sure I still signed up for potluck because that situation turned out very well and I learned a lot from it! I would talk about the amazing friends I've made so far, but would also encourage myself not to be embarrassed to call home for the first time! We would talk about activities, and I would remind myself to be careful not to overdo things the first year. One of the most important things I would say is not to worry about losing yourself in the first few months of college. I would remind myself of my inner strength and my support system through my family and my faith. I would assure high-school Kristin that college is fun, that she (I) made the right choice, and that I would enjoy K-State immensely!

Shelby

I would tell myself to not stress about what the future holds and to take everything one day at a time instead of seeing the whole picture. I would let myself know that everything will be fine and once you get over the hump of the first week everything feels natural and normal. A big piece of advice I would give myself is to take plenty of time to myself and to get enough sleep and to study harder and care more about my classes because they are important because this is my future and I am the one who controls it completely.

Spencer

As I sit daydreaming in seminar class during senior year I should have considered taking more language courses. Two years of language would get me into a 4 year college, but 3 or 4 would have been better. I should have studied out my courses needed at K-State more to see what classes could have been excepted and transferred from the community college. Mainly, for the smaller class sizes and the financial load would have been easier on the checkbook. (I had 21 hours going into college, not that all were used for my degree.) Possibly taking a chemistry class at a community college could have helped me be more established in my understanding of chemistry 1 for college level. If I would have met with the college professors or advisors earlier to understand what is expected of a student. The student class shadowing with a KSU student did give me a better understanding of classes at KSU. One must remember that life is what we make it, may it be work, education, respect,or understanding of others. One must work hard to play hard.

Nicole

I would tell myself to apply for scholarships, for one. I never filled out more than a few because I never thought I would be good or smart enough to get any of them. Awards ceremony day came, however, and I found out many of my classmates that had a lower GPA then I did were awarded money because they took the time to try and research scholarships. I realize now how important that was and how much that extra money could have helped me out. Right now I'm working two part time jobs just to stay a-float, scholarship money would have helped ease that. I'd also tell myself to start shopping around colleges early, even if I was 'absolutely sure' of the one I was going to. As it turned out, instead of going straight to a university I went to a junior college last minute, then I thought I would go to my choice university. I realized after a while that that university wasn't what I wanted, and my plans changed from 'figured out' to 'completely lost'. Had I been shopping around with an open mind, it would have been less of a shock.

Josh

Less partying, and more dedication to my grades it really makes a difference when you get out of high school. And taking advantage of community service which looks good for future employer's.

Chelsey

Growing up I always wanted to be an equine veterinarian. After receiving a degree in animal science and being rejected from vet school two years in a row, I have finally decided that maybe that maybe I should have kept more of an open mind. If I could talk to the high school senior I once was, I would tell myself to slow down and enjoy life. School is not a mad dash to the finish line. Also, since becoming a veterinarian was my main goal I should have looked into other schools earlier for their requirements. I should have taken Organic Chemistry 1 as soon as I started at Kansas State University and proceeded through the more advanded chemistry and biology classes so I could apply at more schools. Lastly, have fun, take more classes outside of the college of agriculture, and no matter what comes my way I should always keep my head up and know that I am smart and I can do anything I set my mind too.

Katherine

Dear Me, I know this is weird coming from the future us but I've got some important information to tell you about college life. You are going out-of-state and you are not going to know anyone. I know that scares you but you have to know that you chose the right path no matter what anyone else says. When you arrive, the first few months are going to be rough socially. Living with a Residens Assistant isn't easy because the only people that come to the door are for her. When they do come to the door, start a conversation with them! I know that if I would have done that, our life would have been a lot more sociable. I know it's scary because of our shyness that comes with it but trust me, it will be worth it. You're first semester will get you a 4.0 GPA! Congratulations! However, spring semester you need to study much harder. The friends you make will be great influences and will help you study. You will be rewarded. You only get one college life, might as well make it worth remembering. Good luck, You

Mary

Learn how to study early. Knowing how to multitask and get things done correctly the first time, saves time in the long run.

Phillip

If I went back in time and give my former self an important talk about transitioning to a college student, it would be difficult to figure out what information would be the most important to relay to me. However one thing I would emphasize to myself is that this is not high school. So just because certain things worked for me in my lifestyle, and studying habits in high school doesn't mean that they will work again in college. I would definitely tell myself to be open, to not assume that just because things were a certain way in high school they will continue to be that way in the next couple years. For instance classes are totally different in college and homework is often expected, but even if your instructor doesn't assign any work you still may have to take time and study your textbook, just to be knowledgeable about the subject for a lecture. Being adaptable is also a good thing, since your living arrangements will be much different; and your parents won't be there to take care of you so you must also take some time to take care of yourself and your room.

Sarah

If I could go back in time to give myself advice before going to college, I would say get involved as soon as you arrive. Don't just sit and wait for people to come to you. Get out there and find the perfect organization or club to be involved with and devote yourself to it. Find a job your first year and make sure that it's something you enjoy. Apply for any and all scholarships and don't hesitate to ask those upperclassmen where you can find that type of information. I would also tell myself that there is no reason to miss home. There is so much more offered to you at college and you should jump at every opportunity that arises. Those people you're missing back home miss you too but they are also cheering for you and they're always one phone call away for that support that noone else can give. I would also say that there is no excuse for not taking a walk around campus and familiarizing yourself. Plus, it's great exercise. And the number one thing I would tell myself is make tons of friends and have fun!

Randi

As a high schooler the hard teachers and classes with the most homework tend not to be the favorite. But when it comes to college it is the hardest high school teachers that make classes easier. Everyone dreads Ms. Stohs' english classes, but pay attention and work hard in those classes. They will more than pay off later, college professors will assign papers and other writing assignments that will seem like a joke, if you do. Don't procastinate until late the night before to do the paper, and actually do a rough draft. Push yourself for the "A", don't just get by with the "B" or "C", the cumulative GPA will be higher and stronger if you want it. Doing so will aid in aquiring scholarships and financial aid to pay for school. Practice makes perfect, and repetition ensures permance. Make the most of her two classes because she will be one of the hardest, if not the hardest teacher, to have in the next few years. Survive her classes with flying colors and college courses will seem much simpler and have more success in them.

Jamie

Dear Jamie, I know that you are very excited about getting out on your own and making new friends. Here are some tips to making senior year memorable: 1) Continue to be active in FFA and get to know more people. You will see many of them on campus in your classes or in the residents halls. They are awesome people to know and will help you out in knowing what classes to take and what teachers to take them with. 2) Spend some time with mom (you will get the chance in November when you both get a part time job), she has a really hard time letting go. E-mail her about once a week once you get on campus and call her every chance you get. 3) Step out of your comfort zone once on campus! Finding people in your classes is good to do in-case you have to miss a class you can still get the stuff you need!!! There are some supprises during senior year but they need to be kept a secret to keep you on your toes. Most of all have fun and be safe. Always, a wiser and older Jamie

gabriela

Go to class!! There is nothing more important than going to class, no matter how easy you think the cirriculum is, the key to success is to keep an open mind, and dont let yourself believe you know everything there is to know in life, because you're about to get a rude awakening. Hale (library) is more like your first home, you will be sleeping and spending about 65{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of your time there bring a blanket maybe a pillow, food and lots of water. Strangers may just be the answer to your prayers, if you have a question dont hesitate to ask, everyone has questions you aren't the only one. Call home often remind your parents how much you love them and keep them updated with your life.

Jessica

Thinking back to senior year of high school I didn't take college so seriously. If I could go back and talk to myself one thing would be to think more positive about my future college experience. Some advice that I would tell myself would be to not worry so much about the transistion because it's really not that bad and the people on campus were more than willing to help. Also that paying for college wouldn't be as stressful as I thought because the college really provides many financial aid options and works with you on your payments. You also have advisors there to help you along the way. Not only are they there to help but the advisor is in the department of your major so they know exactly what classes you need to take. Do your research and find the colleges that fit your interests and needs and then go visit them and see what they are really like and if you think you would enjoy living there. Find out more information and ask questions while you are there!

Scott

For me this is a very simple question over the last two and a half years I have thought alot about what I would do differently if I was allowed to go back into time and give myself some advice. I would first of all tell myself to take school much more seriously. I would then tell myself to take writing classes more serious since college is based alot on writing ability and also with scholarship activities it would make it so much easier to write applications. Then I would also let myself know how much more challenging some professors can be. Lastly I would still give myself the advice to have fun and live life to the fullest because you only get to be in college for four years of your life.

Jim

I would tell myself to get a job sooner and to take a bigger course load, 15 hours instead of 12 and my junior college. I would tell myself to live in the dorms because there will be a lot of really interesting people that I'd meet. I wouldn't change the school I go to even though it wasn't my first pick, and I would tell myself not to slack on the homework. I would also tell myself to get my independent business going so I wouldn't have to work while in school or work very little at least so I could focus on my studies more and also be able to enjoy things like going to a football game or a house party or even just time to hang out with friends or play a pick up game of volleyball. Instead I have to work most of the time when I'm not in school. That's definately not something I had planned to do. College has been enjoyable but the decisions I made between high school and my 4 college should have been better, I would have been able to enjoy everything more.

Kaitlyn

If I were able to give my high school senior self advice, I would be sure to include the following bits of knowledge that I have gained from my experiences at college: -Get a campus map. -ASK QUESTIONS. You are paying professors to teach you- they are, hypothetically, your employee. Don?t be scared to ask, someone is always confused; it?s the people that ask that understand. -You have to work very hard sometimes. Buck up, it will pass. -TAKE A DEEP BREATH. Don?t panic. -Get help BEFORE you fall behind. -You get out what you put in. This includes classes and social life. -No one has to know that you have no idea what you are doing: act like you own the place. -Stay positive. ...and last but not least... -Stock up on Ramen Noodles, macaroni and cheese, and cereal.

Ben

If I could go back in time to help my senior self make it through college, I would tell myself several things: First, I would tell myself that money is going to get tight in college, that I should start saving right away. Second, in order to help with the money situation, I would tell myself how I was able to achieve time travel. Publishing the latter would surely help with the former. Third, I would tell myself to take exactly the classes I?ve taken, but to decide earlier that English and Philosophy is for me. Fourth, I would tell myself to take things, as Jefferson said, by the smooth handle. Fifth, I would tell myself not to put off talking to my pre-law advisor, that she could help immensely in deciding classes, etc. Sixth, I would tell myself to live on campus the first year. My apartment will be nice and comfortable and quiet and I will learn how to cook exotic dishes, but nothing can replace the experience of living in the dorms. Seventh and finally, I would tell myself that time worth spending is time worth spending well. I hope you've enjoyed this time.

Meghan

As a high school senior I was confident that my first year at college wouldn't be the same as most others. I did not believe that the courses wold be as hard as I was told or that falling behind would be so easy. Although my teachers, friends, and family all told be that the way I was preparing for the new chapter of my life way completely wrong, I refused to believe them. I knew that I would succeed the coming year. I was wrong. College began smoothly. I attended classes and tried to make friends, but soon this changed. I awoke late one morning with no one yelling at me that I missed my first class. I had freedom. I could stay out late on a Tuesday night and no one would care. I could do all the things that my parents never let me. Suddenly smoking, drinking, and the college party-animal had its claws in me. My grades slipped so did my old friendships. Looking back now I wish I could slap myself and then calmly explain that yes college will bring freedom but don't abuse it. No one holds your hand in college.

Amanda

If I could go back in time and make new choices about transistioning into college, I would pay more attention to pertinent information and try to develop a better understanding of my major, financial aid and other processes in college. I also should had investigated my major options and the best path to take to obtain my major. Although I have acquired more knowledge by taking classes that are irrelevant for my major, I would have been able to get through school faster and could potentially already have a profession. Had I chosen the best path to take to receive my degree, I would be teaching children and having a huge impact on the lives of the children I encounter. I think it is important to fully research all of your options before jumping into college without any direction. The important part is that we learn from our mistakes so we can better our lives and grow to be a better person.

Alicia

I would tell myself that the work loads in classes vary greatly. There might be tons of work in one class and another might only meet a few times during the semester to take exams. I would want to further prepare myself to be more open in talking to people and be less shy. After being at Kansas State I have realized what great opportunities there are to meet people all over the world. I would tell myself to get involved in different organizations around campus. I missed out on a lot my first semester so being involved early is always a plus. I would tell myself that people change from their senior year to first year of college. Some of your greatest friends in college could be someone you probably never would have hung out with in high school. Best friends from high school will most likely go on their own path for college and not to worry. Enjoy campus life and the college experience. There is so much to do and see and it all starts in the beginning. Don't be afraid and take each day as it comes. STUDY!!

Brandi

Brandi, the myth that you hear about college is just high school with dorms is absolutely false. However, you can have just as much fun like you are having in high school thus you have to work harder than a normal office job. But before you reach college there are a lot of preparations needed to get there. First make sure you have excellent ACT/SAT scores because you can get extra scholarships and grants this way. Also make sure you have several college entrance essays written, most colleges use the same essay topics. By completing these things early, you can focus more on selecting colleges. Then around early October, start applying for all your top schools, make sure you have set aside money or fee waivers for your application fees. Depending on the schools acceptance letters should start arriving sometime between December and April. While you are waiting on the acceptance letter to arrive, in January after your parents have received their tax return forms go ahead and apply for FAFSA. Then throughout the remainder of high school and summer, apply for more private scholarships. Then make sure you have fun and relax before the big arrival date.

Anne

Now that I have experienced college life and continually making the transition, two pieces of advice that I would give myself as a high school senior, would be a saving grace in my academic studies. The suggestion of furthering my attitude, and the practice of studying for tests would help. No longer would those tests come back with the normal ?C? or ?B? average, those tests could have ?A?s? written all over. The second most important academically saving grace would be time management. It?s hard to get into the mood of getting things done. However, limitations are necessary to get the job done. When classes are over, school isn?t finished for the day. Homework must begin somewhere, and now is better than later.

Casey

The first thing I would tell myself is that it is okay to nervous or afraid, because everyone else is also feeling that way. You just have to trust that everything is going to be okay and eventually you will find your place and something you are passionate about. I would also tell myself that it is okay if you are not sure what you want your major to be. You don't have to have a plan for the rest of your life the first day you are at school. You should explore all your options and find something that intrigues you and that you enjoy studying. The last thing I would tell myself is to use my time wisely. Everyone always told me how much free time I would have in college, but I never believed it until I got here. If you don't learn how to utilize your spare time wisely, then it will be very tough to accomplish anything. And that is a lesson that you will carry with you throughout life.

Jeff

I would tell myself three very important factors. First, would be stay on top of my studies. Second, would be to develop better family relations. Third and most importantly, would be to better develop my faith. Getting really good grades in high school can put you at a huge advantage. It would make you eligible for many scholarships, which would take a lot of stress off the financial side of school. I look back at all the really fun times I had in high school, and I also look back and see how superfluous it all was. High school is a very fun time but if you put your friends ahead of family you will wish it would have been the other way around. Out of all the friends I made in high school the amount I hang out with now is just a fraction. Lastly, this is the most important factor to your future in college. Firmly plant yourself in an unwavering belief. This will carry you through so many trials that inevitably will come along in college. College is a time for ?trying new things? they say, but it is also a time for strengthening your faith.

Lora

Do the best you can while you are in high school. Looking back I wish I would have "practiced" studying in high school. I could get by with cramming in my high school classes and I quickly learned that I needed to actually study here. Also, have a strong grasp on who YOU are. When you get to college there are about a million other influences on you that you have never had before. If you don't know where you stand on things sometimes you can be pushed around. However, be open to new ideas. You can learn so much if you just sit and listen. Your professors are nice people even though they seem scary freshman year - get to know them. Don't be afraid to ask for help...you've already paid for it! Make friends in your classes. Everyone there is in the same boat as you. Don't forget to call home. Your parents are helping you through college, so don't forget them! They love to hear about your day sometimes...even if all you did was order pizza and giggle with your roommate. Last but not least - HAVE A BLAST! COLLEGE IS AWESOME!

Laura

Don't spend so much money. I know it seems important to go out with your friends, or buy that one book you really want... but you NEED that money. Financial aide doesn't cover everything and it is the worst feeling in the world to be so poor that you don't even have enough money for gas. Also, go to work. Work as much as possible, and don't take off unless you really have to. More work means more money.

Haley

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to not be so stressed out. I was worried that I wouldn't get in, and if I did then I wouldn't fit in. Luckily, I got into several different schools and when I chose to come to KCU I fit in great. The application process definetly is redundant, but it's worth it in the end. Now that I've been here for almost two full years, I couldn't imagine myself anywhere else, if for no other reason than the amazing people I've met here. I know that the friends that I have made are real friends and will be in my life for a long time.

David

Truly think about how valuable this time is. Once you have moved on and finished what you started, make sure you got out of school what you should have, and not just a degree. Use this time to refine your character and form those quality habits that will carry on into your adult life. There aren't too many scenarios that are similar to the life you lead in college, so use that time to form lasting friendships and mentorships. I know myself, and I know that this will all sound incredibly passe and boring but these are the things that will matter in 20 years. Don't expect yourself not to make any mistakes, but it is how you react and move on from them that will show who you are. Be the person that finishes what they start and not the one who just "does the work."

Charles

Don't be scared and be yourself and stick to your morals. When I came into college I was terrified about what was going to happen. I did not know anyone when I came to school and I was very nervous about finding new friends and meeting new people. I didn't know what the classes would be like or if my grades were going to fall. I really didn't know anything and it scared me. Looking back I realize that there was nothing to be scared of. My classes were just fine and my grades were excellent. I also ended up making a lot of new friends and having some marvelous times. I was able to do this because I was myself and stuck true to my morals. I was pressured with many different things from different types of people but I stayed true to my virtues and I found some amazing friends who truly care about me and I absolutely love being in college now and I'm not scared at all. So if I could go back in time I would tell my past self to stay true to my morals and just be yourself.

Julia

College is a learning experience. One learns by doing. But when applying and transitioning to college, a little extra advice never hurts. Flashback to my senior year of high school. There were folders upon folders of college applications and then months later, it was followed by daily checking of the mail, hoping to find an acceptance letter. Upon entering college, I wish I would have stayed more organized from the beginning. Keep each class seperate both in one's mind and on paper. Another important part that I failed to do my freshman year was to utilize my on campus resources. If I would have gone to the review sessions, read my textbook in the peace and quiet of the library, and visited the free tutors, my grades would have been much higher. It is not an embarrassment to ask for help or need assistance. It shows that one is a dedicated student. Staff and professors are here to help. Let them! All and all, I believe those changes would have not only helped my grades but shaped my time so that it could be more efficiently managed.

Emily

Don't underestimate yourself. See your own potential. Try new things, challenge yourself, and get our of your comfort zone. You should meet new people, try new foods, and go new places. Now is a time of crucial character development, but also a time of freedom from many of the worries that will come after graduation. Enjoy it and take advantage of every opportunity to learn, explore, and grow.

Kristin

In high school, I never needed to try very hard to do well in a class; this is not the case in college. If I could go back, I would encourage myself to build better study habits. Procrastination was an awful tendency for me in high school; that cannot happen in college! If one gets even a little behind, it takes a long while to catch up. As I progress through college more and more, I find that there are many people who have been preparing for these years since they could write. I wish that I would have done better to tune up my skills in mathematics and science and to expose myself more to my major. College takes some getting used to, and in that transition period, it is hard to focus on classes and not one's friends next door. If I would have known, always making time for my schoolwork would have been on the top of my list in high school. It's all about building better habits and breaking the old ones; if one doesn't start college off right, it is difficult to overcome that. Always strive to be better.

Chelsea

Go above and beyond. When people say you will need some time management skills they were being modest. Be overprepared, get super organized, and keep track of deadlines.

Hannah

I would advice myself to take as many opportunities as possible. Do not be afraid to take risks and put yourself out there. Going to a big college can be intimidating at times but everyone there is in the same position. Join a club or take part in a sport, you will make friends faster this way. Get to know your professors, they are there to help you on every step of the way and they will, all you need to do is ask. I also would advice myself to get things done ahead of time, this way I will not be as stressed as much and can focus on extra curricular activities. Last, go to all your classes. You may think that it will be fine to maybe skip a few here and there, but it will set you back in the long run. Going to class makes college a lot easier.

Kacie

I graduated as an overly pretentious junior who assumed that, because she had maintained a 4.0 while busying herself in nearly every available extracurricular activity, she knew all there was to know about the real world. My senior year has instead been substituted with a head-first plunge into a mess of financial disaster and self discovery. If I could travel back in time to speak to myself as a senior, I would tell myself to put my life on hold and appreciate the bliss of those last minutes of childhood. I would make myself realize that one more year of high school could make a world of difference when it comes to surviving the whirlwind of confusion that comes next. I would explain that scurrying off to a new school in a new town does not mean that the things that plague you will magically disappear; you have to stand strong and confront your demons. Life is what you make of it. Slow down and enjoy it while it lasts, because nothing lasts forever.

Larry

I would tell myself that there is no time like the present. Try not to put off searching for scholarships and financial aid because if you do, they will disappear quickly. I would tell him that college is about connections. Become friends with your professors, class mates, and whomever else you meet. People are willing to help as long as your kind. I would tell him to stay on top of homework and do not allow yourself to fall behind. You have a history of procrastinating, that is a habit that you need to break as early as possible. College is not made in years but in semesters. It is to easy to lose track of whats going on around you and then find yourself with a low grade during your finals. Keep your head level and know that you have to take care of business because there is nobody around to hold your hand. Keep working, paying bills, do your homework, and go to class and everything will work out in the end.

Logan

The transition from college and high school seems to be a tough time in some people's lives. One thing to do in preparation would be to take the most advanced classes possible starting the freshman year in high school and to strive as much as possible for a perfect GPA. The point of this would be to get as far ahead as possible in order to make yourself more wanted by colleges. With the extra knowledge early on, you can set high standards and reach those standards easier. Another point of advice I would give myself would be to take more summer college courses in order to get a head start on the freshman year of college. The point of this would be to get all the general education classes out of the way at a generally cheaper price and to be able to start with specific classes to a designated major in order to get a feel in the set major and decide if that is a possible future goal in life.

Brice

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, the first thing I would tell myself is to take college classes over the summer so I could come in with some of my general studies out of the way. I came in with no college, and found myself having to take classes that weren't overly difficult, but were required. If I had taken some college classes such as Composition I and Speech, I could have focused on high level classes and begun working toward classes more related to my degree. The second thing I would tell myself is to never be content with my work. I settled for a 30 on my ACT score when I had opportunities to raise it. I had figured while not out of the park, a 30 would still be pretty distinguishable on a resume. However, as I soon found out, I could have received thousands of dollars more in scholarship money if I had only raised that score a mere two points. Finally, I would tell myself to enjoy the small things in life, for we can only live our life once.

Graciela

Over the past year and a half that I have been a student a Kansas State University, I have learned a tremendous amount about what it takes to successfully transition into life as a college student both inside and outside the classroom. Being the youngest of six children, all of whom have graduated from a four year institution, I thought I had a descent grasp on what to expect when I went to college, but I was mistaken. Some of what I had learned from my older siblings was applicable in relation to school work and professor expectations, but the biggest trasition and something that can only be learned through personal experience was social life as a college student. Being on my own I had to make decisions for myself and live with the consequences either positive or negative. If I could go back and give myself advice as a high school senior, I would say don't worry about the academics because really they are no different, but rather prepare yourself mentally to be challenged socially and morally. College is a time of growth and learning, but be careful and watchful of yourself and what you choose to do.

Elizabeth

If I could go back in time and tell my senior self about college I would tell myself about how rewarding it is. College has its hard moments: classes are tough and some things don?t always go my way, but college has been the best time of my life. I would tell myself that college is all about confidence and work hard. If I have those things, my scholastic career will be a successful one. I would also tell myself that it?s necessary to have fun sometimes. In order to be a balanced person, you have to have equal time between studies and relaxation. Lastly, I would tell myself to try new things. Even if something new might seem scary or hard, it?s important to try. Trying new things leads to meeting new people and learning more about who you are as a person. So, for the transition from high school to college, I would say that it is necessary to work hard, be confidant, have fun and try new things. College is about expanding your mind, so I would tell myself to do my best and not give up when the going gets tough.

Nicole

I would tell myself that I have made an awesome decision in my college choice and decision to move away from home. I would also tell myself to continue to stick to my moral values and stay close to God. He is going to get you through everything and take care of you. So my advice to myself, don't change for anyone and stick to what you want to do and everything will work out fine.