Luther College Top Questions

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

Cody

During my four years at Luther College I learned many valuable lessons. The most important piece of information I took away from Luther was a different view of the world and the people outside of the United States. I gained this new view of the world after traveling to Scandinavia and Ireland during January 2008. This trip taught me that we live in a beautiful world which is made up of more than just what we see in the United States. Before this trip I was not very observant of events occurring in other countries. After returning to campus I became more interested in the political and social events of various countries. Another life lesson I gained from my experience in college was my interaction with the various ethnic students I became friends with. I was lucky enough to become close friends with students from Ghana, Ethiopia and India, to name a few. The friendships I gained with them helped me understand that despite our dramatic differences we could get along because we all were striving to be better people in the classroom, on campus and in the world.

Sheyne

College has been the most thrilling time of my life! I grew up in a large town with many who did not graduate. All the teachers had given up on us kids! I decided from a young age that i was better then this. All the gangs and violence brought me down. Everyday, I walked though the metal detector and wondered why people had not thought it imprtant to further their knowledge! Why just give up? I thought about it long and hard one night. That night i committed to open a savings account for myself at the age of 9, and began saving for my college career! I picked myself up and i am now putting myself through college to be a Pharmacist! It has been a difficult road, and there are still challenges ahead of me. Once i achieve my goal i made for myself so long ago, my life will not be meaningless. I will have completed what i set out to do! But I won't stop there; there is always something new to learn out there. You just got to learn how to see it!

Molly

After attending and completing two years of college, I have greatly grown both as a scholar as well as a human being. I truly feel that the higher education that college courses provide is a means of expanding one's knowledge and appreciation of the world in which he or she lives. Since completing two years of college courses, my eyes have been greatly opened as a result of taking courses from biology to critical thinking. Not only have my eyes been opened, but my mind has been expanded and my appreciation of the world has increased in leaps and bounds. In addition to the benefit of attending college for the purpose of obtaining a higher education, my college experienc has provided me with the pre-requisite courses needed to attend a four-year school of nursing. I have been able to cultivate a preparation for my education as a nurse through the courses I have taken and with this knowledge, I will be able to continue fulfilling my goal of becoming a Registered Nurse.

Cole

During my time at Luther College, I have found that freedom has been the most valuable luxury I have gotten out of my college experience. Of course, students all over the globe will agree that finding freedom is one of the greatest joys of college life. However, it isn't soley because students are able to play video games or hang out with friends anytime they want. I believe the best part about freedom is that it allows students the opportunity to think for themselves, rather than having parents think for them. In high school, it was not uncommon for students to be angry that their parents made decisions for them. It was the parents that nagged my classmates to work on homework on a specific time, or, in my case, it was my mother that nagged me to practice my bassoon or find people to play tennis with. I felt pressured to constantly follow the thoughts, or "orders", of my parent. In college, however, the pressure has been lifted off my shoulders. I get to make my own decisions here, and although I love my mother, I am quite glad to finally be the master of my own destiny.

Christina

I developed confidence and great capability in my critical thinking skills, which I believe gives me a solid basis for any career I choose to pursue. My written and oral communication skills also improved drastically, thanks to my coursework heavy in social sciences, English, and Spanish. I also formed lasting friendships and contacts, both personal and professionally, in my classmates and professors. I feel that there is a great alumni network behind me, and the campus always feels like home when I return. I love the geographical setting -- its location in the serene Oneota Valley was the ideal place for me to focus on my studies. A degree from Luther College is good for anyone!

Christin

I have loved my first year at Luther and anxiously await the start of my second year back at this place that has become like a second home to me. I have met many amazing people already and I know that I will continue to do so as I continue my education. The classes I have taken thus far have been very interesting and engaging and several of them have caused me to really stop and reflect on my own personal beliefs. I have also had the opportunity to share my individual gifts and grow as a leader as I have become more involved with college ministries. This is not only a great way to spend my time and make some lifelong friendships, but it also serves as a great foundation and preparation for the career in youth ministry that I hope to pursue once I graduate. Luther's sense of community and emphasis on vocation and self-reflection have been very beneficial for me as I grow and learn with others and work to discover my place in this world.

Courtney

My first two years of college have started to shape my life in ways I never imagined possible. Receiving a four year degree from a respectable college has been my dream and plan ever since I was a a little girl. Education is a passion of mine, which is why I apsire to be a future elementary educator when I graduate from college.

Alyse

Looking back at the confused, scattered first year student I once was, I wonder how I ever got to be where I am now. Starting college with a learning disability added an extra stress to an already stressful situation. Unsure of what to do with this new found independence and how I was going to succeed in a competitive academic environment, I found myself frazzled. However, the support I received at Luther has helped me overcome my academic struggles and embrace the meaning of a holistic education. I have been able to succeed in the classroom as well as hold leadership roles and be involved in various organizations. Through being involved, I have met people who have had a large impact on my life. Whether it be a professor, a team mate, a faculty member, or simply a friend everyone at Luther has helped me grow and change as an individual. Today, I am an academically driven and involved junior in the Luther community. I can confidentially say I have grown greatly because of the support and experiences I have had a Luther, making it one of the most valuable times in my life.

Gaea

In school, I became involve in several organizations, and even ran leadership position. I?ve learned to become a team player since everyone?s work reflects the organization as a whole. I am dedicated to my work and I don?t settle for anything less than my best. As a leader, one needs to be approachable and willing to give a helping hand as well as keep a level head through all of his or her responsibilities. I believe learned this qualities through my college experiene. I believe that my experience in college will not only help me personally grow but the information that I learned I can take with to help improve my future endevours.

Jody

Graduating from Luther College, I expected to get a diploma, and a job. I did, but I've gotten so much more. I started out in a large state university, a nameless face in the crowd, no connections, just going through the motions. I dropped out of college for two years. Trying to live on minimum wage was the impetus for going back to college, but I needed a place where I could make a connection to what I was doing there. So, I chose Luther College. I found opportunities to volunteer and serve, teaching English on the Navajo Reservation, tutoring college students who spoke English as a second language, and writing reviews for a magazine among other things. These were opportunities I never would have found at a huge school. I felt I'd made a difference, and made a connection with my future. The joy I found in serving prompted me to choose a job teaching at-risk youth. The patience, tolerance, and understanding I acquired through volunteering are necessities in my job. The desire to make a difference has kept me going even when people around me burn out. I like to think I'm still serving.

Amanda

lose the anxiety be more outgoing and spontaneous try and meet everyone practice and prepare more take chances don't worry about appearance

Rachelle

The most important thing that I could tell myself would be: Don't let your insecurities about fitting in hold you back. One of the wonderful and unique things about your freshman year is that every single freshman is going through the same thing you are. Every first year is feeling, in varying degrees, alone and uncomfortable with themselves; college is a completely new experience for everyone and NO ONE feels properly prepared for the moment when their parents leave and suddenly they are on their own, surrounded by hundreds of strangers. Don't let this get to you. If you keep in mind that everyone else feels just as insecure as you do, it makes it easier to be yourself; it keeps you from worrying about how you will fit in/be accepted. Relax; meeting new people takes time, and a surprising amount of effort (particularly if you are introverted), but it will be infinitely easier if you remember that you all have a common point of reference and you are all experiencing a similar situation and emotions.

Madison

As a high school senior living in Iowa, I did not experience being exposed to as many cultural and social differences that might come along with living in a big city. Had I the opportunity to retreat to that time and give myself advice on college life, I would tell myself to jump in with both feet and experience those differences first hand. Sometimes, as a young person making the transition to a new setting, it might be stressful to step outside this comfort zone of "what-I-know." In my opinion, the most rewarding realization any young person can ever make is "I don't know anything." I finally learned to open myself to this concept, and since have made great relationships and learned much from the opinions and expertise of those who think differently than I do- including professors, professionals in my field, and especially other students. If I could go back, I would have taken advantage of the transition, been open, and made more conversations early on rather than having wasted time in my comfort zone.

Leslie

If I could go back in time and talk to myself, I'd tell myself to stress less about applications and enjoy senior year more. I think I took for granted all of my friends during my senior year. We all scattered all over the U.S. and I rarely get to see most of them now. It's a tough transition going from knowing hundreds of kids in your school to knowing one person. It's also important to really try to make friends during that first semester in college. It can be a stressful and lonely time in anyone's life and it's really important to get out there, expose yourself and really try to meet people. Having friends, especially those who are going through what you're going through is important because especially at this time you need a support system that's close to you, not 3 hours away.

Sydnie

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to be more open to ideas about what I wanted to do with my life. I was so set on being a doctor for as long as I can remember, that when I started to take science classes at college, I realized that I did not really enjoy them. I began to look at other areas and realized my true passion is in music and education. If i would have been open to this idea in high school, there are major strides I could have taken to improve myself in this area. I would also suggest that I challenge myself more. When I got to college, I did not understand how to write a paper or even how to study. If I would have tried harder or taken more difficult classes in high school, I would have been better prepared for college and probably would have a higher GPA from my first year.

Bryanna

I would tell myself to look at more scholarships. I would also tell myself to find a good job and save up for the school year in order to pay for books and any extra costs for school. I would tell myself that the adults weren't kidding when they said that college is hard. The transition is tough and there is no way that high school can prepare you for how hard college is. You have to study hard and much longer than you did in high school. Call home often and talk about your day. Write home too. Somehow, these little things can help with the homesickness. Make friends and don't be afraid to ask for help. The professors are more than willing to help you reach your goals. Find a tutor if you need it. It's free and worth the help.

Sondra

Prepare to juggle. Having a job, school, and a social life at the same time takes a lot of effort and it's hard to get used to, especially if you are taking challenging classes.

Erin

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself that college is not as impossible as it seems. Although it is stressful and overwhelming at times, college is really a wonderful experience and its an important time to learn about yourself. You grow intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually. Most importantly, you don't need to be afraid because there are so many people there to help you with whatever you need. It will take awhile to make new friends, learn new rules and the layout of the school but all the worry and apprehension will be worth it in the end. Though your family and friends from home are far away, they will always be there to support and love you no matter what you decide to do with your life.

Emily

College goes fast; though I am a Freshman I feel like so much time has slipped away from me. Make the most of your experience; knowing that you are at school for academics is important, but it doesn't mean that all of your time must be focused on your studies. Be happy with the people and opportunities around you and get involved! College may seem daunting, and it is rigorous, but don't let that make you stressed or take away from your overall experience. Talk to other people, especially students older than you, they give good advice, and are all much nicer and less scary than they seem. Take time for yourself! You will be living with a roommate, and while the experience is wonderful, you are always around other people and being able to have some "alone time" is essential to keeping yourself happy and focused. More than anything, have fun! If you are already focused on your studies and that will continue to be a mantra, do not let opportunities slip to meet new people and try new things!

Felecia

I would tell myself to look into studying abroard early, and to give myself the opportunity to travel. I would tell myself to start out strong with good grades, so as to make it easy to maintain a higher grade point average. I would remind myself that I can do anything I want and that I am whoever I want to be and to follow my dreams. I would tell myself never to forget whats important in life, and to do thing for myself once in a while. I would tell myself to stay strong and do great i life, and to never take anyone for granted because you never know if you might not see them again. I would also tell myself that 4 years speeds by real fast and to make sure I don't miss a moment of opportunity, and always try new things.

Micah

Say true to yourself.

Karissa

My senior year was a stressful, worrisome time for me. Not only did I worry about the colleges I was applying for, and the cost of which college to go to, but I was extremely worried about my grades and expectations of my teachers. If I were to go back in time, to my senior year of highschool, I would tell myself not to worry as much. Being in college now, I wish I hadn't stressed so much in highschool. Life was much easier then, the stress levels minute compared to that of my college now. If I were to go back in time to my highschool senior self, I would tell me to enjoy the time I had left of my highschool career because college would be a mountain compared to the molehill that highschool was.

Tyler

I would tell myself to wieght the location of the college more heavily. On-campus there is everything I would ever want in a school; however, there are times when I just want to get away and relax but find myself with no where to go. As a music major, I also would enjoy having a professional orchestra or chamber music society to go listen to. These organisations would also provide opportunities to audition and possible even to perform as a subsitited while still in school. Although I am quite satified with my professors, friends, and acedmeci environment, I wish I would have considered the schools location when deciding where to attend school.

Melissa

Wow, If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior. I would tell myself to go off to college and not look back! I would tell myself to go to prom and have fun with my friends. I feel that I missed out on many many things through my high school and I regret that, but now I'm trying to go to college and get my RDAED-2. Which I'm so proud of myself for doing! If I could go back to high school and talk to myself I would have changed all my classes and taking the harder classes beacuse I know I could have done it, instead of taking the easy way out! I would have told myself college is the right choice for me. I would of said don't be scared you can handle anything that is thrown your way!, and if I could of done that I know I would have left high school and went on to college like I was suppose to!

Paige

To relax and just breathe. I need to not worry so much because I will be able to handle and manage everything that I do. At first it may seem overwhelming but in the end it really does get better. Once you make new friends and get acquainted with everything and everyone you feel just like at home. I am smart enough to just take care of the things that are really important. I need not to stress a lot before the situation takes place.

Kirk

I think the only think I'd tell myself is to try and be more social. I find it very difficult to make friends, and I thought I would be able to keep in touch with my good friends from high school. Now that I know that's not true, I would have told myself to be open to new people and make new friends. Everything else has prepared me well enough for college, so I have nothing additional to add.

Kelsie

I would tell myself to make sure to savor every moment left of my senior year with the friends and family I love but to also begin to look forward to the new friends and opportunities ahead of me. Make yourself open to new experiences and people. View every thing with as much optimism as possible because this will help you cope as you transition from the world you used to know. Make sure to develop good study habits asap because the work load of college is much greater than that of high school. Ignore the pressures of others to find a career plan asap. College is designed to help you decide what you want to do with your life. Take classes in both things you love and things you know nothing about. Doing so will help you decide what youre passionate about. Its difficult to do but try to maintain a balance between work, studying, and time for yourself. What ever you do, do it with passion and committment to bettering yourself, your community and the world around you.

Maria

If I could talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to slow down, enjoy it, and try everything at least once. Life happens so quickly and even faster in college where you are on your own, studying, planning, and hanging out with friends. One day it is your first day there and everything and everyone is new and unfamiliar. The next instant first semester is over, it is Christmas break and you are ordering books for second semester. Because it goes so fast I would tell myself to try a little of everything; at the activity fair sign up for as many things that sound interesting because you can always not go or be removed from the email list. Try intramurals, get to know your teacher and classmates - you will need their help sometime, join clubs, go to the sporting events and activities going on, say hi to a stranger passing by, and do something that would shock your friends and family like try ballroom dancing or join a bowling league or even take a road trip somewhere. Do not limit yourself to what you were in high school, be something new and have fun.

Cody

I would tell myself to study more. High school was always easy for me, and I rarely had to crack open a book to get A's. I knew that college would be more difficult but I didn't anticipate having to actually read a text book, not just skimming the headings. I would remind myself that I'm studying to prepare for the rest of my life, so each topic should and will be broken down into infintesimally small details. I would try and impress upon myself how difficult it is to get into medical school, but tell him that I'm confident that we can do it; after all we both know how stubborn and relentless we are.

Cassandra

One thing that I would definetly tell myself is to use my time wisely. I have spent many late nights doing homework, when I could be sleeping, but because of the poor choices I had to stay up. By staying up late, I would be to tired the next day to pay attention in class, which makes it hard to understand what you are learning. I another thing I woud tell myself is that even though you live with someone it doesnt mean that you have to be firends. My roommate and I this year fought constantly which took an emotional toll on me. I wanted so hard for her to like me, but she would just keep on being mean to me and I would get frustrated with myself wondering what was wrong with me. I would tell myself that is okay not to be best friends with your roommate. you just have to be polite and hopefully they will come around and if not it is okay. And if problems get really bad make sure to talk to you RA, it is very important to fix a problem before it gets worse.

Ramona

Dear Me, Life seems to be wide open right now and rightly so. You are young, vibrant, and very intelligent. You should plan your life carefully based on these qualities and the hand that life has dealt to you. You've been told that you have no way to get an education becuase of your financial status. While it may be true that you may not attend Ivy League, you can still plan your educational and professional life carefully with some discipline and assistance from those who know, like college counsellors. Because, let's face it, what does your uneducated family know about going to college other than your family doesn't have any college graduates? Now go! Quit your whining and self-doubt and get that education you will need, or you will end up being 43 years old and watching 22 year old children get promoted over you time and time again because they bothered to go to school.... you don't want that. With much love and hindsight, The future you.

Marybeth

I sat at my desk around ten on a Wednesday night trying to remember what the assignment was in calculus that day. I reached for my assignment notebook on the shelf above me, flipped to the correct date, and gasped. I had written down my calculus assigment, all right... right above the note "meet with Prof. Rhodes at 2:30." I had completely forgotten to go to the meeting! Responsibility is important to me, so I was burning with humiliation as I sent an e-mail to my proffessor apologizing for my memory lapse. The start of college brings with it a whole new set of responsibilities. It can be hard to keep track of all my new classes, rehearsals, meetings, and other obligations. Learning to make (and use!) a calendar was the most useful adjustment for me as I transitioned into college. Not only does the calendar help me to remember what I have going on, but it gives me visual feedback on how busy I am, allowing me to better balance my extracurricular involvement. I feel much better knowing that I am in control of my busy schedule- and Professor Rhodes appreciates it, too!

Yvonne

Start in the medical field which is sorely needed at this time. My parents gave us the option after graducating high school to chose what we would do. I grew up in a blue collar working family and went to work right away. Now knowing what the options of college is I would have taken a short vacation to see the real world and then enrolled in college to finish my education at a lower age group.

Courtney

In high school, I held myself to the highest standards. I had to get A's in everything and that was really the most important thing to me. When I started college, I had that same mentality, but I began to realize that while grades were important, the most important thing was for me to actually engage in my learning. I began to speak up in class discussion and really relate to what I was learning in class. If I had learned that earlier, then I might not have been so stressed out when I first came to college. College is about learning, but it's also about meeting life-long friends. And without those friends, I realized I never could have gotten through the most stressful times in my life. So if I was going back to myself as a high school senior, I would have told myself to make the friends that would stay with me and learn to engage in my learning. If I didn't do that, I wouldn't get anything out of my college years, and I wouldn't be the person I am today.

Mallory

Knowledge is power and college gives you unlimited access to so many different resources. Understanding that, my single piece of advice would be to take all the new opportunities that you can. College is a place to explore and find out more about yourself. The only person that can hold you back is you, so don't be afraid of doing something unfamiliar. If you want to go to that jump rope meeting, the luncheon with the anatomy professor and the ethnic dance forum..........GO! Most events are free of charge so the worst that could happen is that you decide not to go back. However, in doing so you are finding out your likes, your dislikes, and who are as a budding adult. For most of us, college will be the greatest pool of easily accessible knowledge and opportunities that we come across in our lives. You only have a few short years so take the leap, explore your interests, and you will graduate a better, more knowledgeable student with no regrets.

Tasha

If I could give myself advice as a high school student, I would emphasize on study skills. Note taking was something that I had to learn how to do properly in a hurry. High school was a breeze;college is not. I would also tell myself, however, not to stress too much. The thought of going to college was a little scary for me in high school. Therefore, I would tell myself not to worry, and that everything would turn out just fine. I would tell myself that I will make the transition smoothly, and that I am now succeeding in all of my classes, and I have met a great group of people here to back me up every step of the way.

Lauren

College is definitely an experience. You can never completely prepare yourself for what's ahead because something unexpected always pops up, but it makes the experience even better. You can be yourself at college; it is a place to discover who you are and what life is like. You do not have to keep up the same image you had in high school-that is all in the past. It is not worth worrying about what others think because they are in the same boat as you. Do not let any oppportunity pass you by to have fun or try something new. The transition into college is exciting and sometimes scary with all of that freedom at your fingertips. Give yourself the chance to explore new horizons. You can ponder over new ideas from class discussions and form your own opinions, you can find friendship in unexpected places, you can test the waters with the unusual looking cafeteria food--or maybe not--but the point is, you can achieve anything at college. It is a place for you to grow and to live. And you know what? It will all be okay.

Alison

The best advice I could give would be to listen to your parents, and pick your school based on both your personality, and your academic goals. I did not want to attend Luther. Honestly, I threw a fit when my mom forced me to visit because I thought it was ?a dorky music school?. My mom, a health professional, had been advised to send me here because it was one of the best schools to prepare for medical school. None of my friends were going here, and I was stuck between the terrified thought of ?I have to make all new friends? and the arrogant thought that ?I?m going to be the coolest one here.? Naturally, I was wrong about the latter. Making new friends, however, came easy. Everyone was in the same boat, and meeting people was easy. I?ve found some of the best friends I?ll ever have ?better than my high school friends. As far as academics go, my mother was right. It is a great launching pad into a medical career. So my best advice is that mother knows best, and choose your school wisely- basing it on your ultimate life goals.

Alicia

Going away to college is a life changing experience full of individual growth and surprises. Don't be afraid to get help, using a tutor or talking to your professor, because everyone wants you to do your best. Set yourself up for success from the start! It's okay to be scared, you're making a big transition. Don't be afraid to ask questions. Your advisor, RA, professors, and peers are all there to support you. Get involved and don't be afraid to take risks. No matter what the outcome, you will become a stronger person because of it. Everything is a learning experience, whether or not you realize it. Embrace every opportunity you can and give yourself the chance. You only get one college experience and you don't want to live with regrets. You will be happiest if you live a balanced life. Finding this balance takes a constant effort and will change constantly. The effort you put in is exactly what you will get out. Don't cheat yourself. Just remember, there are many people who have already experienced this and there are many people currently experiencing it with you -- you are not alone.

Kyle

Apply yourself.

Shelby

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would definitely give myself some advice about attitude. "Attitude is everything" is a very common saying, but well deserved. The biggest transition into college is the outlook that you have on it, and how you choose to deal with it. If you are negative when you first arive, it makes it so difficult to find people that you can be friends with and you really like. Coming from highschool where you have known a lot your friends for a good portion of your life, it can be difficult to make new ones. You constantly will be comparing them to people you used to know etc., but this is something that is ok to do. You do have to make new friends, and they may never be as close to you as those in highschool, but you will never know until you try. So the most important thing to remember is that if you are positive going in, everything will be alright. While it may be different from what you had originally expected, change is good and only makes you a stronger person.

Breanna

Dear Breanna, Moving out of the house you've lived in for the past 18 years seems tough and, yes, it is hard, but your first year of college will be a whirlwind of new experiences, laughs, fun times, and great friends. You will meet a great group of girls who become like family & Paideia is NOT as hard as it sounds! As far as your major goes, stick with your gut instinct of nursing. Don't change your major just because anatomy sounds scary. It's not as hard as it seems. In fact, you'll get an A-. Get involved! You'll meet positive people this way. Even if people say things about others, give those people a chance. They can become some of your best friends. Enjoy college, try not to call home so much at first, and live in the moment, as this is how memories are made! Love, your future 21 year old self, Breanna

Chelsa

figure out the cost and consider inflation...I am over 80,000 in debt...I don't think it's worth it.

Aaron

Don't worry about this so much, so many have already gotten through this and you will have a lot more fun than you think. Also, don't be afraid to meet new people and going to Luther will allow you to meet so many awesome people from all walks of life and all parts of the world. You will even have some really great opportunities and if you choose to go for them, they are more reachable than you may think. Just make the right choice!

Eric

Remember this is a transition into the next stage of your life that requires a lot of attention. staying too connected with your hometown and hometown friends can be very inhibiting.

Zachariah

Apply for more scholarships, it'll only help you in the long run. Also, be sure you have train yourself to be more organized, because it will make scheduling much easier. Also, do not be afraid to talk to your administrators before coming to this college, because making a name amongst them will only help you when financial or academic problems arise.

Austen

If I could talk to my high school senior self with the knowlege and perspective I have now, I would first reasure my former self that the transition to college is a fun one filled with new oppertunities and people, and not one to be nervous about. When it comes to being mentally prepared for college, I would say that the most important thing is to have a good work ethic and the abillity to be self diciplined. I believe with these things you can take on anything college may throw you. I also would suggest that one of the best ways to decern between schools is to go on an overnight visit. Finally I would emphisise the importance of finding a school for which the campus atmosphere feels right. My choice to go to Luther over the many other schools I applied to ulimately boiled down to a gut feeling based on campus feel. After being a student here for a semester I'm so glad I made the choice I did.

Jacob

It is completely okay to not be typical. Thinking that you have to fit into the typical idea of a college student is so wrong. Just go and be yourself, because you will find people who like the same things as you. There will be plenty of opportunities to get involved in your college life. Do not let them pass you by. Take advantage of this great experience and squeeze every single bit of worth out of it. Make sure that you keep up your grades, and go to class. Believe it or not, you will do better when you go to classes. Do not skip out of them. Your grades will only benefit from going to class, and if you attend a school like mine, your professors will notice when you are not there. Keep a positive outlook on your situation, and remember that you are working for your future. Whatever you end up doing, you should do because of your passion for it. Discover that passion at college.

Christopher

Start the visiting process earlier and give yourself more time to visit all the schools and take some overnight visits.

Josh

I would tell myself my intended major now, physics/ pre-engineering. I feel that i wasted time taking the biology courses that i took my first year of college and i feel they won't help in the future. Also i would have told myself to prepare more for my varsity sports. Perhaps the most important thing i would have told myself is to study for every class way more than i think i should have. Also i would tell myself that i will make it through and have great confidence in my ability to perform athletically and academically. Also, don't be afraid to meet as many people as you are capable of meeting.