Miami Dade College Top Questions

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

Julian

If i could go back in time and let my former-self know anything, it would be to have buckled down harder in high school. There is so much opportunity that I have missed out on because of slacking off in high school. However, that doesn't mean I haven't changed and the future looks bright.

Jhon

Make sure you're aware of what field you REALLY want to study for the rest of your life and major in. College is similar to Highschool except the majority of the teachers in college are eager for you to learn and they're very consistent with group works and class interaction. There's nothing to be scared about because campus life is nice. Everyone fits in, since its such a diverse community, we're all a family. Apply for scholarships and focus towards your future, not the present time.

Luke

First thing I would tell myself is to take my time in figuring out what degree to go into. Dont just rush into something without really finding out what it is, because you can end up spending alot of money on a major that in the end doesnt interest you. Second thing i would say is work hard at school. No matter how hard it may seem at the moment it will all be worth it in the end. There is in fact a light at then end of the tunnel. Strive towards it and grab tight to education. Have fun with it and prove to yourself that you can go far in life with the right attitude and education. I would also tell myself to use the hard painful periods in your life as a learning tool. Your past experiences will in fact make you smarter, stronger, and the resilience to succeed.

Vivian

If I could time travel and talk to myself as a high school senior, I'd give myself a wealth of advice. First off, I'd tell myself that even though it's a noble cause to work two full time jobs and tutor on the side in order to support my physically disabled mother, my temporarily disabled father, and my retired grandmother, it's more pertinent to my future to attend college. I'd stress the importance of getting a degree over ensuring I've earned enough money to pay my bills. I'd encourage myself to attend college sooner rather than later, because burning out from working too many jobs to make ends meet isn't going to take me anywhere in life. I'd tell myself that studying and working hard to finish my bachelor's would better prepare me for the career path that I choose. If my biggest concern at the time is earning moeny, then I would emphasize how much more I will earn in the long run once I have earned a degree. I'd tell myself it's not as complicated as I think, and to just go and get it done!

Melisa

During my High School Senior year, I participated in the Dual Enrolled program, meaning I would attend both high school and college in advance. I had a taste of the college experience before formally graduating and it was shocking, it's a giant step that requires one to discipline their priorities, focus, and put forth their full effort. I handled the situation fairly well, since I've always put my education first, but if I had to provide myself, or any high school senior who is considering to attend college/university, with one piece of advice it would be to not stress. My main problem when leaving high school and entering college was the pressure. Upon leaving high school we are still children, we may not be entirely sure as to what we want to pursue as a career and I would tell myself that it's ok. To search for ways to take classes that peak my interest and fall under requirements, to not be afraid to be persistent and ask questions and to socialize with my peers. This will make the transition infinitely better, and taking that pressure off will allow me to actually enjoy my education.

Gessica

Focus more on your goals in life and what you can do. Don't just give up because it getting hard, discipline yourself because you are so much smarter and capable than you think you are. You are as smart as those people you envy, you just have to believe that you are and apply yourself. Actually study and put in the work it takes to succeed don't just look over it, become overwhelmed and decide you can't do it. Stop selling yourself short and take steps towards reaching your full potential. You really can do it!

Robert

Well since I didnt go to straight to college after graduating high school, I would tell myself to just go for it enjoy college and have fun but what I really learned from the time between high school and college is that to get ready for college because its no joke, your life is in your own hands, having fun at college is great but its not going to get you anywhere this is the time where you put all your effort into school and really do well that way you can earn your degree and pursue a career that your interested in.

Ireina

The first thing I would have told myself is to do my homework,(research of the school) in depth. Find out everything that the school has to offer and ask all the questions you feel need to be answered. Brace yourself for something very different, and no not like your teachers tell you in highschool. Brace yourself for the difficult things ahead of you and that there is very little room for error. Also that if an error does occur, don't freak out, there is always a way out just look for the answers. You are now an adult and will be treated as such, so learn to stand up for yourself and be confident. Believe in your future because this is not a game. Be confident about what you want to do and go into it full hearted, don't let anyone stop you.

Kassandra

Assuming I could have the opportunity to go back in time as a high school senior; I would have made a slight change to my long term goals. Personally, I would have taken AP courses during 9th grade and advance my college credits as much as possible. Additionally, I still would have considered early graduation, meaning to complete both 11th and 12th grade together. I am positively sure that if I thought about this at first, I would of obtained my bachelor's degree in Public Safety Management-Law Enforcement at the age of 19. Moreover, participating in extracurricular activities would have been a great idea as well. My mentality would not have changed; I have always thought about advancing in my studies and gaining experience in every step I make in life and receiving recognition from any company I represent.

Francis

I would advice myself about how impotant is my future in my life. How important is school, and how important is the role that it plays in all aspects. I would take more seriously the subjects in high school. I would not let myself to be unsuccessful. I would try hard everyday. I would focus more in what I really want for myself in the future and who do I really want to become.

stephany

Never let anyone tell you no and always remember to follow your dreams!!!

Saray

College is not as scary as the high school counselors portray it. The advisors at the school will help you out with every question that you have. If you are not sure of what do you want to major when you graduate of high school it is okay because every student in the campus has to take General Education classes. The campus does this because there are many students that are not only undecided, but tend to change their majors because they realize that the one they chose is not for them. So in order to avoid that every student gets exposed to different branches of study. In the end they know what they're getting into when it comes to their field. If you know what you are going to major it is a great advantage because it will be easier for both your counselor and yourself to do your IEP(Individualized Education Plan) and flow with it. Do your best in class and study the hardest you can because after all the effort that you have put into will be granted in the future.

Jessica

If I could talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to take college seriously. I would make sure I knew how I was setting myself up at that time for my entire future. I would let myself know what I had become without a college education. I would make sure I knew without that education I wouldn't be able to help my children go to college. I would let myself know how jobs that pay well financially and emotionally are few and far between without an education. I would let myself no that without this education my children would go without. Without this education I would not own a home. I would make sure I knew how the people who took school seriously had much better paying jobs and nicer homes. I would make sure I knew how great life can be and how your children need a great role model. In a nut shell I would make sure I knew why at 35 I am going back to school. Hopefully then I would go to college and have a lasting career.

AnnaMaria

The advice I would give myself would be simple...stick with it and finish. Many people can get side tracked and maybe bored with the fact that they may feel they are repeating high school and taking similar classes, but these classes need to be taken in order to proceed and start learning what pertains to their career of choice. This is what happened to me. Do not waste time, you will graduate soon, and to keep your gpa up and high, getting the most A's that you can in every class. Also, make sure that you know what it is you want to major in, it will help alot in choosing what classes you need to complete and make the application process easier for you at other universities since you will have credits that you can transfer and do not need to retake. Keep your head up and you will succeed.

Barbara

I’ve dreamed about being able to start all over and have the chance to do things differently in college, thinking back as a High School student I didn’t have a clear direction or goal. If I had the opportunity to go back in time and give my high school self advice, I would first say: LFE IS YOURS TO CREATE! You have the opportunity to create the life of your dreams, so dream big! Second, I would emphasize the importance of being self-confident and to eliminate any doubt in myself. Commit, make a goal with a time line, stay focused and follow through. There are so many distractions in life that may seem significant at the time, but it’s not until the time has past that you realize that it was all irrelevant. You have to put yourself and your education first! Don’t let a job that pays you a little over minimum wage cloud your judgment or be easily influenced by friends because you want to fit in. Stay strong and confident in your dreams no matter the challenges that you may have to face. It will all be worth it in the end!

Abnerys

As Benjamin Franklin once said "Lost time is never found again." I have lived by this quote ever since my eighth grade teacher, Mr. Gonzalez, exposed us to this concept and wrote it on the board every morning. However, if I had the ability to go back in time and found the lost time that sneaked by, I would grasp it by the horns and not let it pass by once again. With that being said, I would advice myself, as a high school senior, to take as many Advanced Placement Courses and Dual Enrollment Courses as possible which would have decreased the financial burden had I known how expensive books and classes were. I would then advice myself to volunteer in different career orientated locations to find what I was most interested in pursuing and to see the reality of each career. Not to mention, I would be giving back to the community and pursuing my passion of helping others. Being that I was also a very ambitious high school student who graduated top five percent of my class, I would also congratulate myself on such an outstanding achievement and would have pushed myself even further.

MARIA

If I could go back in time I would tell my highschool self to pay more attention in classes because some of the material taught in High School will be used in college.

Jeffrey

Well the Recession is real and it going to hit us hard, even simple retail jobs will be competive. I work for American Airlines and I'm waiting to get laid off as we speak. Do not join the military yet, the starting war will not be over soon. Wait till you get your bachelor and become an officer right off the start. Go straight to MDC, and major RN nursing. Learn about renting textbooks. Your going to find out, when your kindergarden teacher said "You can be anything you want to be, if you put your mind to it" that doesnt exist. You will qualify to all expectations, but realize America is not offering any jobs for awhile. So put your FireFighter dream on hold, EMT school at least shows you what your good at "taking care of others without gratitude." Your family will fall, you will have to rise up to the occasion, be strong and make scarifices. An through all this darkness there will be light, for all the hundreds of students that applied. You are 1 of 50 to make it in nursing school, you were an A Student all long. Cause you never gave up....

Elizabeth

Stay focused and do not take time off from school.

martykay

If I could go back in time to 1992 when I was a senior, I would tell myself to "Step up!" " If you go directly into collage right now, instead of waiting; it would be so much easier for you. It's not the drama of high school. Collage is as easy as you make it. The classes are more attentive. the teachers are always there to help. You will love collage despite how you feel about high school. Don't miss your chance to better yourself. And deffenitly do not wait a year or two because that may turn in to 10 or 20 years. Also if you don't go you will never advance in your employment."

Rosa

I am extremely satisfied with the college I chose to go complete my education. I don't think I would have made any changes. Miami Dade College has a great honors program that allowed me to expand my knowledge and build connections with great classmates, as well as faculty members.

America

As a senior in high school, I did not know what lie ahead of me in college. I would have never have guessed that it would be as hard as it is now. I would tell myself that the most important part of college is learning how to not fall behind. I skipped too many classes and am paying the price for it now. I am transferring schools because of it. I would also tell myself to study a lot more than I ever have before. I never studied in high school because it all came easy to me, well college is a lot harder and if I had taken the time to study, I probably wouldn't have gotten kicked out of my first college forcing me to take a year off school. Also, I would tell myself not to blow money on silly things. Save all you can for school. It costs a lot more than what you might think it would. The biggest regret I have, however, is not trying hard enough. I plan to try 110{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} harder when I transfer this year from the University of Akron to Kent State Stark. I can do this.

Alejandro

Assuming that I could go back in time I would say to myself: Your are about to start a new important period of your life, so you have to watch every step you take becasue from now on, your will be choosing the path of your future. It is important that you act responsibly and take responsibility of every action you make. Being in college will take most of your time, so you will have to make an effort to get excellent results and succeed. So, if you want to achieve all your goals, focus if you are really interested and overcome every obstacle in your life no matter how hard it is. Most important, always think positively and you will make it.

virginia

I would tell myself to strive and continue for excellence, life is about dedicating time and focusing on what is mostly impotant. I would convince myself to further my education and not stop at anything. I would advise myself to correct my mistakes and learm through them. Also, i would inform myself that prioritizing and organization is important and helpful in figuring out where life is taken you. I'd tell myself that i am heading in the right path and that there is alot of obstacles we will overcome, but we will make it through further than expected. College is definitely a direction we are going for, we will enter the doors with our head high and succeed with no, if, ands, nor buts. I will tell myself what i told myself then that, "I CAN DO IT" to not hestitate and apply to an institution by any means necessary. Myself would have the full understanding that only the strong survives and that the weak minded need help with failure and "I" stand no chance at failure. Failure is not an option its a downfall. Last but not least, Education and college life is our main target in succeeding.

carly

I did well my senior year in high school but if I could go back in time, I would tell myself to really pay attention and comprehend what the teacher is teaching about. By taking notes with detail and understanding what each lecture is about is crucial in college. Sitting in the back of class listening every once in awhile was just a way to get by and not exceed my full potential as a student. I now discipline myself in college and force myself to sit in the front of class, taking a lot of notes and if I feel my mind day dreaming or thinking of anything besides what my professor is teaching I mentally try to re-focus and think long term of how my test grades will make up my final grade for the class and that is my motivation to keep enduring the workk, even if it is not the most interesting subject. This technique I did not do in high school, but now do in college and I am doing very well and even made the Dean's List this past semester so it really pays off in the end.

Jonathan

Much of the reason why students avoid Miami Dade College is because of the negative perception associated with it; they believe themselves above it. Knowing what I know now, if I could tell my high school self one thing it would be to not be ashamed. As a highschool senior, I figured even though I was accepted to many of the colleges I applied to, such as the UF, I also realized that I simply would not have enough money to pay for them. Unlike many of my friends whose parents happily payed for their tuition, my parents were going through their own financial crisis and I knew that I would have to pay for college myself. This ultimately led to my decision to come to Miami Dade College where I earned my AA in one year for close to nothing. I was ashamed to come to Miami Dade College when I was in high school. It isn't until now, in retrospect, that I realize that I made a wonderful decision to come to a college where you are encouraged to find your real interests in life even though you may not be as financially endowed as others.

Beatriz

Never give up and do the best I can, since at the end it is worth it.

Raimundo

Focus on my goals and never give up!

Roxana

College life is definitely different than high school life; I believe I was lucky to have my dad and mom by my side during my education life, when we are young we don’t want to be at home just doing homework, studying, reading, practicing what we did in the class, but I had to do all that because of them, my dad and mom would always say: “If you want to become a professional, have a job that you like working at, and get pay well so when you have a family you will be able to provide their needs, you have to study hard now, the university life is harder than high school, you will have bigger projects to do, harder tests, long hours of study at the university than the high school, you can do this, we believe in you!” They would always say those words to my 4 siblings and me. The only thing I wish I would have done 4 years ago is NOT have leave College because of work issues; I look back now and think I would have probably had my degree by now, but unfortunately to pay for college is not easy.

Jenifer

If I could talk to my High School self I would tell myself to be smart. I messed around too much back then and didn't put much weight in education or school. I didn't find it interesting or important. I wish I had actually tried to do good in school, now I might already be in college or have a good job. I would tell myself to forget about friends, forget about the parties and having fun, save all that for summer and breaks. Instead focus on finishing your homework, studying for tests, and paying attencion in class. Don't be stupid and act up. Stop trying to be the smart mouth kid who sat in the back of class cracking jokes and making fun of the teachers. I would tell myself that education and high school does matter, and it's needed to move on in your life and make something of yourself, but I'd go back to my 9th grade self... not my senior self. That's when I first started acting up.

Ariadna

If I could go back in time as a high school senior, I would have done things differently. First of all, I would have taken more AP courses in order to be more prepared to the style of college classes. Also, I would take advantage of my time wisely. For instance, during the breaks between classes I would be studying rather than being doing nothing while I wait. During the winter and spring break, I would take time to apply for scholarships and internships for the summer. In that way, I would not have to be under the pressure of school work and the tedious application process. Additionally, during the summer of the senior year, it is a good idea to start researching about selected college and career. Therefore, once I became a freshman in college, I would have a clear idea of what I want to accomplish while on college and all the opportunities that the college offers which definitely would enrich my knowledge and academic experience. Most important of all, I would have applied to internships related to my field; as a result, I would have a clearer idea of what I want to do in the future.

Virginia

I know that you think because you did not do your best during high school you can't go to school for your dream career. But It is never too late to start doing good in school. You will not be applying for law school straight out of high school so you have time to become the great student you once were. You need to get organized, and take your college years seriously. You cannot afford to fail any of your classes, and you should take a math class your senior year so that you don't end up in remedial math your first semester of college. As long as you pay attention to your teachers and complete the work you get assigned college will be as easy as high school.

Rivas

I would advice myself to never give up , that everything is possible, and that college is the best choice because education is power.

Ireynne

Ireynne, When I began this letter, I was determined to warn us of so many things and give us different direction. The truth is however, that our life has made us strong. In the future we work as a behavior assistant and an art coordinator at a school for kids with autism. We also work at a preschool for about 7 years, and we love it. We have several heart aches and some darker times, but we come out on top. We move out and even get married to a guy that the entire family loves- even mom. Our apartment is pretty nice, even though we really want a house, and we have three adorable cats. Life is pretty nice. I will warn us that during the next few years, we lose some people that we love, so keep our friends and family close. Let everyone know how special they are. We’ll be ok. I guess the point I’m trying to get across is “don’t stress.” I know we feel so alone sometimes, but we’re not. We don’t have to cry as often as we do. Keep drawing and enjoy our youth. I love us

Simone

If you study hard in High School, things are much easier when you switch to college. Don't take a break after finishing High School, once you start working it is tough to enroll in school again. Time flies, and the sooner you finish school, the sooner you can start building your career.

Jocelyn

The biggest advice I would give myself is to start applying for things as soon as September. I was told I didn't have to do anything until May the the earliest and that is not the case. Most scholarships are over before then. I would tell myself that college life won't be the easiest but it is nothing to fear. I would tell myself to apply for every scholarship I can and never think that I can't get one. I would also tell myself that it is okay that I don't get in to the greatest school. I am smart and I will work my way up and mkae them want me to go to their school. Some more advise i would give myself is to work hard on my senior year, because it is important and not something to slack on. I would tell myself to buckle down and work as hard as i possible could. Then, I would say to make sure I am ass prepared for the ACT's as much as i possibly can because it effects a lot of things in college. Lastly, i would say to just enjoy myself.

Brittany

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior I would advise myself to take each and every class in senior year seriously and succeed to excellence not only for my GPA ,but also for my confidence. Because when I look back on my high school years I doubted myself because I was a slow learner and could not grasp a concept like the average student can, but I will tell my high school senior self to study hard and pratice each time that she has a chance. Also, I will tell her stop being lazy and having a guilt party for yourself and to keep pushing for excellence and not mediocracy.

Patricia

My advise to high school seniors would be to plan better.

Lovelyne

I would tell my self to go to a university or college right after high school instant of taking time off.

Joel

Dear self, you have no idea the journey ahead of you. After the training wheels of life are taken off, you will be driven into a world of uncertainty. I am your future self. I have seen the hardships you will face if you’re not prepared to obtain the knowledge, wisdom, and information that will prepare you for life after high school. You will face difficulties in achieving you goals. I know that the school you are attending now is inadequate for you to learn this, so it's up to you. Prepare yourself for success, you can do it! To prepare, is just like writing an essay. First brain storm, explore ideas for goal setting. Next write your theses and make it you mission statement. Supporting paragraphs should include detailed steps for achieving your goal, but only after you have researched the right materials and give reference. Your conclusion should lead you to a brighter future. Lastly, when you summarize yourself to others, you can properly explain how you achieved your goals and the steps you took to be successful. It’s up to you now. Keep in mind time waits for no one. Your time is now

jean

work hard on math the classes are very difcult there. otherwise save up money. simple.

millyMilagro

The advice I would give my myself is do not settle for less always push yourself to achieve greater. Study hard for the exams. Keep your grades up because your GPA is gold in college so its very important to keep them high. Expand your horizons, and take has many classes as you feel necessary to become a well rounded individual.

Georgia

Don't let anybody bring you down or make you doubt yourself. Try not to take anything too seriously, and don't regret or worry about things you can't change. None of your energy is wasted when you take everything in as an experience, be it positive or negative. Enjoy the ride.

Joan

As a high school student, many of us tend to not take class as serious as we should. As an example, I really only cared about the grades I would receive instead of really trying to understand the material. So, one thing I would change is to actually pay attention to the teacher and try to retain as much information as I can, because much of the material is brought up again in college. I would aslo, tell myself to join clubs, and sports, because it can actually help you out to become more social.

Glenn

Well, i would tell myself to always stay ahead of the game in all of my classes, because even though you might pass them all with a passing grade, when you do get to college, the classes are alot harder and more challenging. So if you must, just keep your grades up.

KASSANDRA

I would recognize that College is a lot of fun if you enhance yourself in curriculum activites and community services. I would focus on completing my Bachelor's Degree in two years instead of four and continue up to my Doctorate's Degree. I will take into consideration any programs or internships offered relating to my intended major. Moreover, I will make sure I strive for the best I can during my college years in order to be a recognized and successful individual.

sabeen

If i could go back as a high school senior I would tell myself to be dedicated once I enter into college. I would tell myself not to give up and strive harder. I would advise myself to pick my classes early to get the best classes. I could reach out to professor's because they are usually glad to help out. I would also advise myself to plan my schedule wisely so that I have enough time outside of school to study and complete my assignments.

Patricia

Being recently graduated I already wish i would have done things diffrent. To go back to september of my senior year, I would have told myself to think harder, and figure it out. Decideing what to do with your life is to me one of the toughest choices any person will ever have to make, and I wasn't a kid who from birth knew what they wanted to do in life, be a doctor, or an athlete. So as you can imagine, choosing wasn't easy. All and all i just didn't want to make that choice, so i did what i shouldn't of, and put it off. If i could go back right now, I would tell myselft to dig deep, think hard, work on scholarships, and do everything i am doing now. The fact that yes im going to school is great, but i wish i would have started early, wrote as many essays as i possibly could. That would be the best advice i could give myself.

Nathan

I would tell myself to start looking at better colleges to transfer to after Miami Dade College. To have begun looking into and obtaining the funds back in high school would have spared me from a good deal of anxiety right now. I do enjoy the phrase "better late than never", but the reality is better now than later.

Andrea

After experiencing my first year of college, I saw that everything in the academics of students are taken in more seriously. GPAs will matter to potential transfer schools, every homework, test and essay will affect even the slightest point on your class grade, and professors do not tend to accept excuses for late work. When I was a senior, these kind of things gave me stress and I kind of gave up on myself when everything became harder. If I were to talk to myself during my senior year, I would say that things are always going to have a challenge attatched to it and I can do it. I have the potential and the answers will be right in front of my eyes.