Luther College Top Questions

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

Mary

College is hard and you will want to cry at times. Be prepared to hate the first couple of weeks of school. Between the transition of living in a new place and the orientation activities you are required to attend, life will be very chaotic. The truth is, you are going to be just fine and love a majority of the craziness. In the midst of this craziness, remind yourself why you are at college. Maybe it is because you want to get an education, or because you are beyond ready to get away from your parents, or maybe it is because you want “the college experience.” Whatever the reason is, you are spending a lot of money to be here so make the most of it! Remember that you can and will make it through. You do belong here! If you don’t feel like you belong, then maybe you need to reevaluate where you need to be and what you should be doing. Be prepared to change your mind a lot. You will have to face the fact that not everything in college is going to be fun. Nevertheless, every minute of it will be worth it.

Danielle

Do not let anything hold you back. Look into all the things college has to offer before choosing that school. Find out if they have academic support centers and if your professors are available outside of the classroom. Both of these resources should and will want to help you succeed in college. Work your butt off to save up for tuition because schools are money hungry because the goernment forces them to be. Student loans are not going to be fun to pay back and do not rely on your family to help you. Go out there and make friends with everybody. You will be able to find true friends, but you have to put yourself out there first in order to make a difference. Be involved in activities you like, but try one new activity! Be careful of which college you choose. It is alright to transfer, but it would better to be at the right school from the start.

Shelby

Although you made the most of your highschool years, there was so much more you could have done to prepare yourself for your first year of college such as take some college credit courses and recieve credit for them. Managing your time in highschool was easy because you had school, work, softball, and your social life to worry about and although those are the same things you are focused on now, there is a lot more time that goes into each of those categories. Its going to be tough to decide that softball is no longer your main focus, but its the right decision. You thought you knew what to expect when it came to boys in highschool versus boys in college. Well I'll let you in on a secret... not every boy is going to fall in love with you and thats okay, because you will meet the most amazing guy and you wont have to worry anymore. He will take care of you and support you no matter what. And last but not least, tell your family how much you love them. You don't realize it now, but you'll miss them. Everyday.

Kristianna

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, there are many things that I would tell myself to do. First off, I would tell myself to get a job right away and to work as much as I could not only to have spending money at school but also to start saving for the outrageous amount of loans that you will have to pay back. Second, I would make sure to tell myself to study as hard as I could, to do the best that I could, and be involved in everything, so that I could get as many scholarships and financial aid that my school offered. One of the last things I would tell myself would be to spend time on the campus to see if it really is the perfect fit for you, and talk to other students and see how they really feel about the campus. It makes school a lot harder when you do not thing that your campus is the right fit for you.

Emily

I would tell myself not to worry about which college to choose, as I now believe there was no wrong choice that could have been made. You will fit in given time, and you are well suited to the academic life. What's most important in your life is still more internal than external, so just make sure you are in a place that will allow you to figure out your own goals--which, yes, will require something like a leap of faith. Don't be pressured into changing yourself, but be open to and expectant of change.

Sarah

I think the most important thing I could tell myself as a high school senior would be that I needn't worry about these next four years. Enjoy senior year, make the most of it, and let the worries of college happen once college starts. Don't worry about making friends or looking like a nerd, there's a social group for everyone, and activities for everyone. You don't have to drink to have fun, and not everyone will pressure you to drink. Keep your faith, keep in touch with high school friends, and keep studying. Don't let papers wait til the last day, and try to get over this procrastinating business I see you've started: it doesn't make things easier. Most of all, know that your parents love you and want the best for you. You'll make them proud by excelling at whatever makes you happy and by becoming the best version of yourself.

Kelsey

Before beginning college, I took my family for granted. I didn’t consider us as a close family because we disagreed often, having different opinions on many topics ranging from politics to movies to relationships. However, now I realize how much I cherished the time I was able to spend with my family. During my first week at college, I had a feeling of missing something. I didn’t know what it was or why I felt that way. But during fall break my freshman year, I spent most of my time at home with my parents, sisters, and brother. When it was time to go back to school, I realized how much I missed having my family nearby. I learned that disagreements are part of why we are unique as a family and we will always have each other's back. My advice to my high school self is: Though friends are important, it’s worth spending time with family and to savor every memory. It will be your family who becomes your most enduring friends.

Sam

I would tell my high school self that the next couple years are going to be some of the most challenging of your life. Everyone close to me was more or less sheltered coming into college. We thought that we had an idea of who we are and how our lives will pan out in the future. I would tell my high school self that only the most important of these convictions would stay and that nothing is a given. In my second year of college, I am trying to answer questions of the existence and purpose of God, if I love music enough to try to do it my whole life, and whether or not I can even make a living out of doing the thing I love. These are things I would have never thought twice about in high school and now keep me awake at night. I would tell myself that there are no answers, not right ones. All we can do is follow our convictions with bright hopes and an open mind and if we fail, we can always try again. Cliche as it might be, this philosophy is what lets me sleep.

Christopher

Don't worry so much about the transition and settling in, wherever you end up you will always find people who share your intrests. Everyone is just as nervous as you, whether or not they choose to show it. Being outgoing is the quickest way to get comfertable with your new life. Not everybody has to be your friend either, but getting involved and putting yourself out there is the easiest way to get to know others. There are clubs for everyone, and they help you keep busy while transitioning into college. And DON'T BE AFRAID TO ASK FOR HELP! No one expects you to know everything when you first move in, and you shouldn't either. There are people whose job it is to help you if you're unsure of what you're doing. Enjoy the new responsibilities and freedoms, and don't forget to call your parents every once in a while too. Luther is an amazing place, you're lucky to be going there. Study, sleep, make some friends, build memories, and you'll always find a reason to smile.

Kali

I would tell myself to be less anxious and to realize that making a mistake is not the worst thing that can happen to you. I would tell myself to enjoy every minute of high school because college is completely different and wonderful world that is great. I would tell myself that it is okay to be different because almost everyone is different and only the most interesting people are different and not all the same. I would tell myself to relax about what college will be like. I would tell myself to make sure you call your mom and dad at least once a week. I would tell myself to be myself and know that good things will be happening in the future. I would tell myself that high school drama needs to stay in high school. I would tell myself to plan and get homework done at night before doing anything else that might be fun but you need to stay focused in order to be successful! Be happy because life gets a whole lot better when you get to college and accept that not everything will turn out the way you want it but thats ok.

Cieara

Well to start, in all of my 4 years in high school, i didn't start getting serious about grades and how important gpa's are and all of those things until i was a junior. That wasn't so much of a early time to start getting serious about it but that's what my state of mind was like. Senior year, i was aware. Fully aware. However, i still lacked in some things, so if i can give myself advice as a high school senior, now being a freshman and College and knowing what i know now, i would adice myself to get my priorities straight first! Put school before partying, and going out to bars and things. Second, always study, because it is very essential in College. Third, have great time management skills because your going to need to, espeically when trying to juggle having a job, a social life, and school. Last but not least, dont lose focus. One thing i have learned and still am learning is that you can easily lose your focus when everything and everyone around you is acting crazy. It can get to you sometimes but you need to stay focused.

Katharine

I would tell my high school self to listen to no one but yourself. Personally my senior year of high school was filled with teachable and learning moments. I was almost constantly harassed by my piers, and was even mistreated by some of my teachers. Throughout the year, I had to learn to stand on my own two feet and to listen to the only person that truly matters at the end fo the day, myself. I was able to grow and learn from other people's mistakes and eventually make it on my own. I just wish I had had a little bit more self confidence, so I wouldn't have had to struggle and strive so much before I learned this difficult lesson. However, I wouldn't change the events of my senior year, for they made me grow into the person and future educator I am today.

Kayla

College, you talk about it with all your friends in high school like it is going to be the time of your life, when inside you feel scared and nervous. Will you make friends; did your teachers prepare you for the long grueling hours of lecture and what about your family, won’t you miss them? My advice to my high school senior self, is to open up and share those worries with the people that surround you; especially your professors. They may seem intimidating and professional but they are there to help you, to make you the best you can be. Now, graduated and working towards a career and future, I understand that professors can be some of the best friends and connections that you make during your time at college. So ask questions, show interest in the courses, study hard, ask for help and share your struggles. They have the wisdom you will need and your best interests in mind; they are teachers, wanting to shape the next generation for success, take advantage of that.

Anna

As much as you think you need to have your entire future planned out, you really don't. Not as a high school senior. The general rule has always been that a person changes their major on average three times. There may be some who change it more than that, and others that never change what they want to study, but it doesn't matter. College is meant to be a place where you study exactly what it is you want to study. College is supposed to be an experience you enjoy. Continuing your education is essential, whether it's tradeschool or an ivy league school that's caught your eye. Enjoying what you learn is the key to success. For the time being, forget about where you'll be in ten years. Focus on where you want to be this next year, and find something your passionate about studying. You're future will fall into place over time, and it's never too late to change your mind.

Burte "Tiya"

If I could go back and talk to myself as high school senior, I would advise myself to go on the Luther Website and find out what courses they offer and create a "plan" for the 4 years I will spend at Luther. I will definitely do my research before enrolling in college regarding the different majors they offer, the requirements for the different majors, the general education requirements and etc. If I can go back, my prior advice to myself would be to seek for financial assistances, search for scholarship and apply for as many I can --especially considering my situation (have no family support both financially and mentally). I will also advise myself to plan out my majors (Majoring in Social Work and Sociology) and know what courses I'm expected to complete and how I can accomplish that.

Christian

This is actually a great question for me. When I was in high school I graduated a year earlly. I would tell myself to stay my 4th year to better prepare myself. I would warn myself to take easy classes my senior year to boost my and earn more scholarships. I would say do not try and grow up faster than youre suppose to and just wait college isnt going anywhere. Don't try and get out early because the oppurtunity is there and to rethink your decision more than once talk it over with people who are already experiencing the life decison you are about to make. I wouldve been happier and where i actually wanted to be if I had not tried to be so fast. I would follow what god intends for me and not what my mind is telling me to do. I would make appropiate choices.

Nicole

I would tell myself to not be shy when trying to make friends. Do not be scared to go to gatherings (where alcohol was not involved) and mingle with others. People are so much nicer and non judgemental in college so don't be affraid to stand out. Make sure you get on top of homework right away and make a daily schedule for yourself. Put some exercise in that schedule too. The freshman 15 is true! You are always sitting around doing school work and the food is always buffet style, so it can be easy to get carried away. Watch what you eat and go for a walk or hit the gym a coulple times a week.

Megan

Dear high school senior self, I know you are very anxious and a bit stressed about this whole "going to college business," well honey, relax! I have been there myself and I would love to give you some advice that will hopefully help you have a good experience with the transition from high school to college. First of all, know that life is a balancing act. When you arrive at college there will be so many clubs and groups to join, tons of new people to meet, along with many shows going on and various other activities on campus, but don't forget about the academics! I know it sounds daunting, but you will learn how to balance your life so that you can be a well-rounded person. This brings me to me next point. You may ask, "Well how am I to learn all this?" My best advice is trial and error. Don't be discouraged about mistakes, for that is one of the best ways to learn. Do not be afraid to try new things, college is all about growing into the person who you want to be. Sincerely, Your future self

kyle

Going back in time i would tell myself to simplify things and ask for more help. By simplify things I mean to really imagine what would I ideally like to be doing everyday of my life, something that I would wake up motivated to do day in and day out. After establishing what a day in that life would be like it would narrow my options of what carrers i would be seeking. I would tell myself to get my general classes done at a community college to save on espense because those required general classes transfer to most schools and need to be done anyway. I would emphasize on asking for help, I would tell myself to seek help because there are so many helpful people out there.

KayCee

Follow your instincts. They'll lead you to places you never knew you wanted to go!

Alyssa

Before you go to college you need to enroll in more college courses to prep yourself for the workload and vigorous academic standards. Many of your high school teachers are not going to challenge you; you need to make numerous goals and work toward them on your own. To strengthen yourself in your major, immerse yourself in as many science classes and programs outside of your high school. You need to take advantage of job shadow oppotunities and CNA training. Most of all, you will not always be successful, but it is the times you fail that will provide you with the ambition to prove fellow classmates' doubts about your academic ability.

Beth

Embrace every opportunity that is presented, as each is an opportunity to learn and grow. Challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone much more often to continue this growth. Don't worry about failure or what others may think. More is often learned from one's failures that one's successes. What matters most is what you think about yourself and your actions. What matters most is that you tried. No one but you must live your life. Trust that you are cabable of what is set before you. God has given you marvelous gifts. Use them in quiet service for others. For in uplifting others, you uplift yourself. Hone those gifts and make the most of them. For in doing so, you will be able to better assist others with their journeys as well. But above all, be yourself. Be who you have been created to be. That is when you will be at your best.

Rosemary

Rosemary, I know you're excited, this is your chance to spread your wings and start making your dreams come true. And I know you're a big dreamer so lets look at this realistically and find the truth. First, you're going to find ways to try to support yourself, so lets be honest, your days working at the library are numbered, they're going to lay you off due to budget cuts shortly after you start college. So stay at home, you'll save more money for when you do transfer and live on your own. To top it off, the professors aren't going to hold your hand, so take classes and homework seriously. Keep your head up and stay focused. Thirdly, you're going to regret going to community college first, you're going to wish you went straight to a university. But be grateful, because living at home gave you the chance to enjoy the last couple of years of your father's life, the years you may have missed if you left. Be grateful, concentrate, be positive and give it your all. You're going to lose hope, but don't ever lose faith.

Keira

My most valuable advice would be to not stress over the small stuff. I spent way too much time thinking about my financial aid problems and grades and not enough time enjoying being a senior. I did really well and I got a good scholarship to my community college but it almost wasn't worth the stress I went through. I would love to go back in time and tell myself to chill out. I think many high school seniors need to realize this. So much pressure is put on students these days, mostly because of financial reasons. I wish I didn't have to stress out about money problems so much, especially because I'm so young. It would be great to have some help and I wish everyone could have equal help throughout college.

Aubrey

This is what I would say to my high school senior self: "First things first. Get a grip and stop stressing so much about the future. Working yourself up and making yourself nervous and scared is only going to make the transition process difficult. I promise that you can do it. I mean, come on, look at me, I turned out just fine. Secondly, STOP PROCRASTINATING. Seriously. College is going to go a heck of a lot smoother if you'd just do your work on time. You'll avoid a lot of unecessary problems. Third, talk to your friends and family. I don't mean every day. But when you can. It's good to touch base, let them know what's going on, and get the scoop from back home. It helps the homesickness and makes the days go by faster. Lastly, don't let your emotions get in the way. No, I'm not talking about dumb horomones. I'm talking about late night stress because you need to finish a paper, or major homesickness. Just take a moment to breathe, and remember that you can do this. I love you, so much!"

ANDREW

If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to start looking for scholarships earlier in my life, because I missed out on a lot of things that I now regret. I would also tell myself that I should take another look at my freshman classes, and reconsider them, because it will be a rough ride if I take them together. I would also tell myself to take more diverse set of classes, because once I figured out what I wanted to do isn’t what I wanted to do, I had no other back up majors or minors to choose from, which set me back on the classes I could take. The last thing I would tell myself is to be prepared for a new experience, because things are so much different from high school going to college, and the transition would be rough, but the ride will be well worth it in the end.

Velvet

Dear Self, As you are getting ready to leave for college and trying to decide where you will end up, trust yourself. You normally make the right decision and now is not the time to start doubting. Listen to those around you, they keep telling you what you are good at and it’s something you enjoy. Stop fighting it and go with that major. Fill out all the scholarships you can and fill the gap with a loan as soon as you can, don’t procrastinate on this, after all it is your future at stake. On the days leading up to leaving spend time with your friends, when you come back next year it will be different, but these people will always be your friends and support you. More importantly spend time with your mom and sister; these people are so important and love you more then you can possibly believe. They will miss you and though they won’t say it they wish you could stay with them foreve (without the “r” because then it won’t ever come to an end.) Remember whatever happens, happens and that the unexpected will always happen, let it and smile.

Katie

Stay involved in high school - you only get one chance to experience sports, activities and high school friends. But, at the same time work to stretch yourself academically by taking even harder college or AP classes. Be prepared to read, read, read when you get to college. Understand that learning how to take effective notes is a process that takes time to learn, but is essential to college success. As a freshmans, get a tutor immediately in any course that seems difficult. This will lessen the learning curve and help you protect your GPA in your initial semester. Time management is an essential skill that one must master. Being involved in athletics or other activities makes one disciplined and rapidly introduces your to multiple groups of new friends. Be open to possibilities. You do not need to have your major figured out right away. It is okay to change your mind. Find an advisor who you connect with. Most importantly, make sure you take time to build relationships with people - you are at school to learn but also to make life-long friends. Balance working hard with playing hard. And, always remember to breathe when the going gets rough.

Beth

Enjoy everything while it lasts. Soon you will be meeting new people. Talk to everyone you meet and smile all the time. Be open to new things. Forget about high school. You are going to college to become the person you want to be. Join every club and group that sounds fun. Keep exercising, it keeps you relaxed and fit. Say "I love you" more often. Live. Laugh. Love

Alyssa

As a sophomore at Luther College I have made new friends, worked with great teachers, learned useful knowledge, and acquired job-related experience. However, I feel the most important thing that college has given me is a transition from the dependence of living at home with my family to a more independent living. Trying to start my new career, living on my own, paying bills, and finding a decent job are all things that I will have to worry about when I graduate. Not only am I gaining knowledge from classes such as Accounting, I am also learning how to function without my parents. Already, I have two jobs and am making money to support myself. Next year I will be studying abroad in France, which will broaden my cultural horizons. Luther also allows juniors and seniors to live off campus which, if I chose to do so, I will have even more of my own financial responsibility. Overall, college has been and will continue to be a valuable learning experience. In my opinion, preparing me to succeed in life is worth the cost of college.

Justin

As a religion major, I have been asked where I have found God on campus. I answered by pointing to the building where I have classes as well as our chapel and community worshipping facilities. What I meant by my response was that at Luther I received an education in the classroom and in a real setting where what I learned could also be experienced. I have recieved a multi-faceted opportunity to develop myself and what I value. I not only recieved educational experiences through experience and knowledge, but also through subjects of interest and supplemental subjects to better equip me to face the challenges of my day. The eco-crisis, the social degradation, and the political and economic ignorance plaguing my generation has proven to be a formidable force facing our present day context. The transformation experience I have encountered at Luther has helped to open my eyes to these issues and to ways I might be able to address them. Through my exposure at Luther, I have been better equipped to make connections and establish valuable relationships with the communities I will be actively involved in as a pastoral leader of a future congregation. College transformed me.

Jacob

Since attending Luther College I have discovered the person I really am. Coming to this school as the only person from my town in North Dakota presented the challenge of making friends from scratch. After a semester of attending Luther I have realized my strengths in creating relationships with people and making friends. The transition from high school to college was easy for me once I discovered that people here encourage me to be myself and that I would be accepted by anyone I branched out to. Out of this experience I am more comfortable in my skin. It's interesting how being surrounded by a good atmosphere where everybody is similar in character has made it easier for me to define myself as an individual. Though the pricetag for a Luther education is a hefty one, I believe that the personal and academic strides I am making towards becoming a stronger person make it worth staying here for. I can't wait to experience what second semester has in store for me.

David

What I have recieved from my college experience so far are many things. I am now entering a world with other people who have the same interest as me. That I am no longer in high school where everyone was just there for themselves. Here at Luther, everyone including the Professor's want to see you succeed in everything that you do. Makes me feel like I entered into a second family when I left my real family back home in California. The support I recieve from anyone here on campus really gives me the mentality that there are people still out in the world that want to see you succeed. There's not a day that goes by that I don't appreciate the continuos support I recieve from all my friends, proffesors, and advisors here on campus. Without them, I don't think I would be able to continue going to college. For me the support is a huge part of my college life. My family home gives me continuos support but the family I have created here on campus, gives me the extra push i need to keep going through the rest of this academic chool year.

Kirsten

When I first decided to go to a community college, it was the last thing I wanted to do. I started as a music major because I didn’t think I was any good at anything else, even though I knew the only thing to do with music was teach, and that was the one thing I swore I would never do. I studied music for two years, and hated every minute of it because I knew it wasn’t what I wanted. Because of the degree requirements, I found myself taking an anthropology course, specifically Forensic Anthropology. It was the most fascinating class I had taken as a music major, and finally I found something other than music that I enjoyed. I am now a Radiologic Technology major, and I have loved every second of it. The most valuable thing I have learned as a college student is that it is always good to try something new, because you just may discover something about yourself that you never would have learned otherwise. It’s more than just learning from a book, it’s learning about who you are and what your purpose is.

Shari

In my college experience so far, I have discovered that I can choose to be any person I want! From ethical and challenging discussions in class to hard work and competition in NCAA Division III athletics, I have been given the opportunity to make my own decisions. Being exposed to new people and viewpoints has taught me what things make me happy and what type of people I want to surround myself with for the rest of my life. I have been rewarded for my strong work ethic and more importatntly have been chanllenged by others who do too! College has provided me a safe platform to grow. Without the opportunities to continue to compete in athletics, research the latest breakthroughs in technology, and take part in local internships, I would not be exposed to what life can offer for me. I am encouraged to try new things and find where my place will be in this world.

Janel

My college experience has opened my eyes and mind to the bigger world we live in. It has made a change to a young adult and exposing me to new experiences in life that you never know living in the security of your parents home. The knowledge that you gain prepares you for a future career in life that is so valuable in todays world. The time spent starts out to be endless but goes by way too fast as I look back and see I am almost half way through my college years already.

Alicia

Contemporary society seems to be advocating that one needs to obtain a college degree in order obtain a successful career, thus the message that I recieved in high school was that the purpose of college was to get a good job. While I do agree with this statement, I have found that my college experience has been so much more than just a means establish a career. Throughout my college career I have grown not only in my academics but also as a person. I have taken courses that have challenged me both academically and have challenged the ways that I view the world. Throughout my studies in history, sociology, and relgion I have been forced to examine my own thoughts and beliefs on society and my own personal faith; an experience that has proved to be invaluable. Also the relationships that I have built with my professors and other faculty has been extremely beneficial. I feel comfortable asking advice whether it be academic, career, or personal, to professors and faculty other than my advisor. Finally, I am extremely greatful for the friendships that I have built during college because I know these friendships will last a lifetime.

Jessica

College has been a process of growing as a student and as an individual for me. I have gained knowledge both in the classroom and outside the classroom. In my courses, I have memorized theorems, learned about the fundamental mechanisms of life, studied how society interacts, and filled my mind with many new ideas. Of equal importance, outside my classes I have learned about people and about myself. Attending college at Luther has exposed me to different cultures and different ways of thinking. Coming from a rural farming community in Iowa, I had no exposure to diversity, either racial or religious, before graduating. Attending college has allowed me to grow as a person and exposed me to many new and interesting people. Exposure breeds tolerance and understanding, something that is important to develop in our country. I have also been able to learn more about myself as I gain independence and look towards the future. College is an important step to becoming an adult. The academic experience of college is important, but of equal if not greater importance is the growth a student experiences as they discover themselves. College takes young adults and turns out the bright leaders of tomorrow.

Sean

Beginning my college career I did not have any idea what to expect. I was the first in my family to attend college and I knew in order to succeed in the real world I would need a college education from a strong institution such as Luther College. In my short college experience I have gained knowledge and confidence from my classes given by devoted and caring professors that will benefit me greatly after graduation. I have met people who will become my life long friends, as well as making connections that will be very valuable to me when I begin my journey once my education is complete. In today’s world education after high school is immensely important and I knew that if I didn’t attend a four-year college I would regret my decision. Succeeding nowadays means getting a higher education unless one is willing to accept working for minimum wage at an entry-level position with no real career opportunity. The experience I am gaining at Luther College is immeasurable. Attending this four-year Liberal Arts College has been the best decision of my life. I know because of my choice my future is bright.

Deanna

Although I have not even completed my first year in college, I have already gotten so much out of my time at Luther College, and not just academically although that is part of it. In my first several months as a college student, I have learned to adjust to free time and freedom as a whole. I am the only one responsible for me and the whole world is in front of me. Luther has provided with me many tools to grow and mature. I have two job through the work study program and this has taught me to manage time as well as accept and fulfill several responsibilities given to me. Attending college has also been valuable in my growth as an individual and has given me a clearer vision of what I want to do with the rest of my life and the person I want to become.

Mark

I learned how to incorporate my faith and my values into my studies (at the time) and my job (now). I gained valuable leadership skills, and grew in my faith life.

Veronica

I have learned patients all over again, And it help me realized that anything is possible if you set a goal in life and stick to it you will love the outcome.

Rachel

What I have gotten out of my college experience is more than I can ever imagine. When I first applied to schools, I honestly did not expect it to be as enlightening as it has been. I have met my best friends, enjoyed a wonderful community of people, learned and experienced more than I ever have in my life and I still have a year and a half left. With everyone being as friendly, intelligent and outgoing as they are at Luther, it is hard not to get the best out of it. It has been such a valuable experience to me because Luther has really prepared me for the future. With the schooling, volunteering, internships, and grad school preparation..I honestly feel like I can do anything I set my mind to do. Luther prepares you for life in all aspects; friends, family, community, working environments, and schooling. I have not yet been upset with my choice to attend Luther College, and I hope in my remaining year and a half here I can continue to learn and experience more to enhance my life.

Mary

College has not only taught me how to speak Spanish fluently or write ten-page research papers, it has taught me the value of life. Recently I lost a good friend. He was a senior at my college, getting ready to go out into the world, make some money, and enjoy life. His time was cut short. This taught me to make the most of the time you have. When I first arrived at school with the excitement of freedom I often went to the local bar with my new college friends. At this point in my life, I was not taking advantage of my time. The party scene seemed fun, but I soon realized what can result from not looking out for friends: rape, injuries, and even death. After taking a Biology course I saw the wonders of more than human life; I saw nature, but I also saw it being destroyed. As a new school year began, and I began staying in on the weekends, I was able to take advantage of that time. I spent more time taking care of myself, spending time with the ones I love, and taking advantage of the amazing natural world.

Shannon

My college experience has not been a typical one. After attending Winona State University in Minnesota, I realized that I needed a school that offered a better sense of community for me to grow and develop in. I attribute this to the fact that I grew up in a small town, where I had always felt part of something tight-knit and knew and cared for everyone. After looking for schools, I found Luther, visited, and after much debate about whether to transfer or not, I finally did, but very late. The admissions office was so friendly to me, even though I was causing endless housing issues, and scheduling conflicts. In short, I was a nuisance, but all the staff's support and helpfulness was inexhaustible. I arrived at Luther a short 3 weeks later for fall semester and was won over by the campus. It was so easy to fit in and feel like you were valued. For me, the best thing Luther has offered me has come from its staff, who has and is still working hardto help me sort out my future, realize my skills and goals, and how I can best contribute to our future.

Jacob

My college experience has helped me to become more open-minded and positive about life. I have opened my mind to understanding and considering different views and values that all the people bring to Luther. My college experience has shown me that it is okay for people to think differently than myself. Diversity has taught me that positive outcomes can arise in life when you use your differences to work together and accomplish something good for society or yourself. Attending college has taught me the importance of perseverance, that if I stay focused and work hard I will accomplish what I want to accomplish. Perserverance is a valuable trait to have that can be applied to all aspects of one's life. Not only perserverance but the well-rounded education I am receiving at Luther College is also important to my growth. As I grow and live life, no matter what stage of life, I can always use my higher education, perseverance, and positive attitude to help me achieve what I want to achieve or work through a tough situation I might be in. Education leads to positive outcomes and is something that will never be taken away from me.

Anna

My experince as a college student is something that has totally changed my life. However, since attending college I have only encountered positive outcomes. A few of these outcomes are that I have learned to be more responsible. I have also became a person that is expected more out of. In addition, I have learned that I should try to do my very best during the times that I am the weakest. I have also learned to interact with other students that I had not only known since I was elementry school.

Mallory

At Luther College we have to take certain classes to fufill the Liberal Arts requirement. I have found that often times these are my favorite or the most interesting classes. I think a Liberal Arts education gives you the chance to expand your knowledge in more than just your major. Things I thought I would never like have become interests to me and I think that has really helped me grow and develop into a well-rounded person. Through my college experience I have experiement with who I want to be and I have learned what important to me. It has been valuable for me because I have found out what kind of person I want to be morally and has helped me become more accepting of what kind of people others want to be.

Jordan

My college experience has been a mixed experience in that I have always worked while attending school. It has been much more difficult than any typical college kid due to the added responsibility. I have learned a great deal at the community college and really appreciate such facilities. The smaller class sizes and better student and teacher relationship really helps for the first few years. I really have learned how to manage my time effectively and keep several different projects running simultaneously whether it was at work or at school. Without such challenges it is easy to see how people can become inefficient and encumbered over sometimes the simplest tasks. I am no longer afraid of what life may have in the future for me for I am prepared with great time management, organization and delegation. I am thankful for all the painstaking assignments, tight deadlines and many hours of homework. If it wasn't for these many different projects, life would be dull and boring. I am extremely ambitious and can't wait to tackle the next obstacle to bring me to higher education in life!

Shelby

My college experience has taught me a lot. The most important thing that I have learned in college, is to just be who you want to be, and if someone doesn't like that, don't worry about it. Luther promotes individuality, and we have a broad range of personalities, styles, and people here. I have had an overall wonderful experience, and have met some very interesting people. Making connections with professors is also key to attaining a meaningful education, they have so much to share, and have had a wonderful amount of experience that we will never know. This tacit knowledge is one of the most valuable resources to have, and I have found college to be a way to expand my learning even more. Learning is so important, and when you are given a proper environemnt to learn in, it is priceless.