Murray State University Top Questions

"You're doing the right thing!" I watched all my friends fill out their college applications, all of which were to big four year universities. I wanted so bad to be filling them out, and talk about moving away. Unfortunately, my family could not afford such steep tuition rates, or university housing. I knew I had to be practical and apply for what I could afford. This happened to be the community college located in town, West Kentucky Community & Technical College. I watched all my friends, one by one, move away and start a new adventure. I knew that I had made a huge mistake. However, I slowly started getting used to small community college life and I began to find myself more involved in campus activity. I found my first job there (which I still have), and graduated with an Associate of Arts. Now, I attend Murray State University. I find myself better adjusted then some of my friends who jumped right into big college life. I wouldn't change a thing. What was right for my friends wasn't right for me. I would tell myself "stay strong, don't waver, and have a blast!"

Hey Dom- I wanted to grab your attention for a moment to enlighten you about what lies ahead. College is going to be unlike anything you have experienced but don't be afraid or shy away from the unknown. I encourage you to step out everyday and find a way to be more invovled with the campus and the community. Search your heart for what is true to you. Don't base what you believe on what someone else does or says; truly "be yourself or be by yourself". Seek constant improvement in how you study, prioritize, and manage time. Be more than educated, be wise, be willing to expound beyond your box of comfort because life has no order besides time. Don't run to what is culturally accepted for comfort or a place of belonging because your identity is not with either but in Christ. Know that fun comes in many forms but not all are meant for you. Build relationships that last, be loyal and be true. The only person or thing that can stop you is you...and I can tell you now...I won't be standing in your way. Love your future self, Dominique

That all you need to do is breathe. Life is going to be overwhelming at times and sometimes it's hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel. However, just remind youself that you can do anything you set your mind to and no matter how tough something may seem - it's always achievable, somehow. Also, never take life too seriously. You have to learn to go with the flow more often and learn to laugh at life at times. If you let it get you down, it will get you down - don't stress over the things that you have no control over. Lastly, don't be too anxious. Live and be young and let tomorrow be anxious in itself, things are going to eventually work out how they were intended to.

The advice I would give myself is to not go into college thinking you can get away with your study habits that you displayed in high school. I was an easy A student in high school, so college never worried me at all. My third semester, once I was starting to get into classes in my major, I made grades that I never saw myself making because I wasn't used to having to study hard. However, my semester after this I made my highest GPA of my college career. Basically I worked and studied harder than I ever had because of my results from the previous semester.

"Get more involved! stop hanging out with those so called "friends/boys," they are trouble. STUDY STUDY STUDY!!!!" is what I would tell the Melissa I knew myself as back in high school. I got involved with the wrong people and was headed down the wrong path. Now I'm 22, and have a baby. I want better for the both of us, but my slacking in high school has taken a toll on my life today! I should've stayed away from those "friends/boys," it couldve kept me on the right track. I was a leader in my high school's choir and JROTC. I loved them both and excelled, I just think I couldve done more. I loved playing volleyball, cheerleading, and soccer, but i was stuck working and taking care of my family because we were poor. I'm not saying this is an excuse for hanging with the wrong crowd, but I did it to realieve the stress I was getting from home. However, I'm smarter now, I have responsibilities; I need to do the best for my daughter and I. I'm not going to settle for anything less!

I would explain to my high school self that you should not be afraid to be yourself and branch out. In college there are so many different types of people and you will find a group to fit into. I worried about finding friends but I fell into place with my best friends I did not pick them out. Don't worry about the status of group of friends but make sure beliefs and interests match up because that is what will make you happy. I would also explain that you should have pride in your school because you will always have you college memories and college makes your future so work hard at it. High school students also need to know the importance of organization. In college there are not as many handout and you must work hard at it. College is just for you it isn't for anyone else so it's up to you on how far you want to go and what path you want to go on after college.

I would tell myself that everything is going to be okay and not to stress. I would say to never stay with any major that you don't like. You live one life and you should do something you love. Also I would tell myself that sometimes you will make a mistake but that is the beauty of college, you learn. Learn everything that you can! Take classes that you wouldn't think you would like because it might just surprise you. Don't take everything so serious. It won't be the end of the world if you fail a test. Remember that! Enjoy college and stay in as long as you can. Never stop learning.

Start studying for the ACT/SAT from 9th grade. Take the ACT/SAT as many times as possible. Getting a good score on the ACT/SAT is the main decision if you get scholarships. Don’t do so many sports in high school pick one and still have a life, the real world comes quick. Do not work during high school, you have your hole life to work. Volunteer more and do things that make you happy. Start working directly out of college for a company with tuition reimbursement. Student loan repayments will absolutely kill you so just marry Andrew Day right of high school and move to Murray Kentucky. The only way to get help from the government for school is get married or have a kid. Marriage is the best option for you. Plan out your four years of college with classes that you need to take on advising appointment number one. Don’t plan semester by semester, you will be in college forever.

Life is not something to be accomplished, achieved and attained but a gift and an experience to be lived out fully, valuing every day for the unique opportunities it presents to mature and think of someone other than yourself. Although your own little world for the next four years will be largely college, and your own little world for the past four years has been largely high school, remember that there is a big world outside of school. Put your effort into learning to be a truly good friend rather than finding good friends, and good friends will find you. There is always going to be somebody better than you at everything – if not today, then tomorrow; if not in this class, then in that class – so don't worry about what anyone else is doing; just focus on what you love to do. Be determined to do your best regardless of criticism received or praise withheld. When you're all caught up in the hustle and bustle of college life and the continuous challenge to balance your studies, your friends and maintain your sanity, remember that college is not the be-all end-all. Breathe. Life goes on.

If I could go back and talk to myself while I was a high school senior about college life, I would tell myself to stay focused on my academics. I know that I am expecting a baby, but I have options. The community college offers a program through Murray State University for a Bachelors degree in Elementary Education. Go talk to the guidance counselor. You need to see what scholarships, grants, and financial aid is available. Call the community college for a tour of the campus. The advisors are caring, and they will help you with all your questions. It might seem impossible right now to obtain a degree while being a wife and mother, but it will happen. The advisors and professors want you to succeed, and they will give you the resources to achieve your goals. I understand that you are not confident in your academic abilities, but you will have a remarkable study group in your program that will allow you to excel. You need to start buying binders, folders, and organization tools, because you will need them. There is a long road ahead, but you will do great.

I would just say to be sure to not work TOO hard. It's okay to relax and get out of your room sometimes. Studying is key, don't get me wrong, but college is also about the EXPERIENCE. Go to a few more basketball games or open mics. Don't be afraid to roll down a hill with some friends. Stay out late every once in a while. It's okay to just relax, breath, and have fun. But remember: don't get carried away. Your grades are very important in obtaining a future career, so be sure to study when needed, just enough to ensure you're going to get that A. But above all, have fun. Life is short. Live it.

I would tell myself to take scholarships more seriously and to apply for hundreds of them if not thousands of them because money is tight in college. I also would tell myself to get involved a little more in clubs and to finish out my senior year stronger than what I did.

When I was in high school, I had very low self-esteem. I was an excellent student, and was able to get scholarships to four different colleges. However, because of my low self-esteem, I did not believe I could succeed at those schools. I chose instead to stay in the "safety" of my parent’s house, and to go to the local college. Looking back, I regret not going to one of those other colleges. I missed out on many experiences that can only be had during the college years. Now as I watch my own daughter getting ready to go out of state for college, I am realizing more and more what I missed out on. So I would say to my high school self, "take chances!" Don't be afraid to leave home and live on campus. Try everything! Don't be shy about getting invloved in your college campus. Take advantage of the opportunity to learn who you are, and to discover what you are passionate about. You cna only do that by getting out of your comfort zone and trying new things! And above all, "Have Fun!!"

If I were to travel back in time and advise myself based on what I know about the "college life" in this present, I'm not sure where I would begin. I may warn myself about the potential to struggle with finances, or the challenge of resolving assignments and projects with confidence and determination. I may also mention the fact that some people will be difficult to understand or relate to along the way, or that it is crucial to see each goal I set to the very end. But, after much consideration and effort not to vacillate on my experiences in college, I suppose I could say that it is still every bit an individual decision. The responsibility is one's own to tame and train on whatever ambition one sees fit. I would not hesitate to make myself understand this, and how it would inevitably involve this burden of choice. Regardless of what path I aspire to walk at any part of my life, the opportunities presented to me at Murray State University are expansive and invaluable to my hopeful career, and I would be foolish not to take that chance. This is what I might tell myself.

Make sure that you try your absolute hardest, go to every class, do all of the assignments, and study for all the test! At the same time make sure you have fun, go to the football and basketball games, go to the parties and the bon fires! Try your hardest, stick your neck out make a ton of new friends, be silly, and act crazy!! Most importantly do good with your grades, that is most important!!

College life is scary. Your first year really sets the tone for the rest of your college career. Join as many clubs and organizations as you can! You have to remember that employers look at your freshman year too! Study hard. Make good grades. I know you are just starting college and the "real world" seems too far to imagine, but trust me. The time WILL fly. Attend the football games. Cheer for the basketball team. A little bit of kindness can go a long way. Do not be afraid to ask for help. If you are struggling in a class, your teacher WILL help you as long as you ask for it. They didn't become a teacher to confuse you. They want you to learn just as much as you do. Preparation for for the rest of your life starts now. I know that is a scary thought. But honestly, when it comes down to crunch time you won't be stressed if you have your plans in place. You're about to go through a lot of life changes the next four years. Make the most of it. This is YOUR future and no one else's.

I would give myself the advice of just have fun and enjoy it, but remeber that what you do in these four years are the building blocks that set you up for your future and that it is more than important to focus and achieve and get active in anything and everything you can. Because more truly is better!

I would tell myself that college will go by much faster then you could ever imagine. Stay in touch with your pals from high school, but don't be afraid to grow close to new ones. Always say yes to going out to lunch with friends, but don't forget to venture away from campus either. There is a big world out there and the next four years is your chance to explore it. It's easier to see the world now, then in 20 years when you've got a house, a job, and a family.

I would advise myself to not be afraid nor nervous about what aheads. Life is something I should look forward and be excited about.

Transitioning from high school to college is an experience unlike any other. The emotional mix of excitement and nerves can leave a person feeling overwhelmed. However, whether going away from home or attending a local college or university, the possibilities your future holds are endless. College is all about experiencing new things, stepping outside of your comfort zone, and striving for the best. When the anxiety from change brews in your stomach, remember; every incoming freshman is in the same situation: new surroundings, new people, new opportunities. So go out and try things you otherwise wouldn’t, take chances, and strive to be your best. Don’t worry about how you look or what others will think of you, any thoughts of negativity will keep you from pursuing your dreams. Talk to everyone that crosses your path because just like you, everybody’s looking for new friendships and experiences. Most importantly be yourself and strive for want you want like never before. Lastly, always remember why you are attending college—for the education, so make it count!

I would tell myself to apply for more scholarships. I would also tell me to pay more attention to school work and be more focused on it and not just your personal life only. Studying is something i would go back and tell myself to do more of. Don't make someone else your priority, but to focus on your future so that i could establish a career and do good at that!

Going to a junior college helps alot. It helps get yourself more ready for a university because they are alot to take in at once. Do not push off scholarships they help alot when you get them. Also do not push off classes till you absoultly have to do them you will end up doing worse and not enjoying life. You are not the only one going through the tranistion, so if you have a friend going through it also talk to them and they can help you feel better if you get scared. You can do anything if you put your mind to it.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself when I was a high school senior I would tell myself that you need to get more focused on getting scholarships instead of wasting time. Also tell myself that college is gonna be a hard journey, not a breeze like everyone says it is.

Looking back in time, I would say to myself as a high school senior would be don't be anonymous. Take advantage of every opportunity that you can get. Don't stop learning just because someone says you can't do it. Stay busy in college with extracirricular activities but remember your first job is to get an education. Remember to talk to all your professors and get to know them outside of class. This is an important aspect of college most students forget because we've grown up in an enviroment where we want to be anonymous. College professors have a wealth of knowledge that you always need to tap into. Once you start, finish what you started and don't quit until you have got everything you want because going back as an adult learner with a family is a lot harder.

I would simply tell myself this, "study harder, stop telling the math teacher I don't need this, and do my homework"! That's all there is to it.

If I had that opportuity I would tell myself to prepare. I would let myself know that high school is not the same as college. In high school you have certain requirements that are laid out for you, making decisions for yourself is really not needed. In college this is the biggest transition you have to make. You are no longer considered a child in the eyes of society, your officially an adult and decision making like where you are going to live, what classes you are going take, what you plan on getting your degree in, and what you can afford all come in to question. You have to be able to balance your school life, your social life, and your work life. This transition can be difficult but if you have the motivation and determination to endure to the end the rewards you receive will be great and well deserved. Every choice you make will have tremendous impacts on your life so make sure your making the right decisions that evolve into postive outcomes. I truly believed this would be the best advice I could give myself as a high school senior.

It may not seem like it now, but you are going to get here. Don't get discouraged, while things may seem out of control right now, you're going to get it together and you're going to make your mom proud. You're clean, and have been for almost three years now. I know it's really cliche, but it really does get so much better in college. You're no longer doing things because you HAVE to, you're doing them because you want to, and it gives you a sense of acomplishment. You'll change. You'll conquer all the issues that seem to plague your life and you'll rise above them, and while they'll never fully go away, you're strong enough to get through it. And know that it's ok to make mistakes, as they don't make us who we are, it's how we deal with them that defines us. And lastly, don't worry so much about mom, she really does do ok after you leave. She fills her time with work but I do believe she's doing just fine, so stop fretting and go to college!

The advice that I would give myself as a high school student, approaching the threshold of college life, would be to participate. I would encourage them to take an active role in the determination of their future, especially when it comes to funding their ambitions and education, and to get involved in the community in a more social way. As a high school student I was introvert and slow to make friends. The tendencies that developed during this time have continued into the present, and in retrospect, has caused me to miss out in life; So, taking my current condition into account, participation would have been a good way for me to break these trends, and develop a foundation of affability and involvement, aiding me in the social transitions between a school of 150 students and a university of 10,000 students. If I had received and followed through with this advice, my life at the moment could be different; I might have received a scholarship, and I could have enjoyed my high school years to a further degree than what I did. Hopefully, by following my own advice I will have a better time during my college years.

It's not as big a deal as others make it sound. Just keep your head up and don't let the weight of college courses turn you into someone you're not. Imagine it like high school but with professors instead of teachers. Keep in mind that you have goals and don't let anything detour your confidence in reaching them.

Work your ass off to get a good degree.

I would give myself the advice not to wait to attend college. Go to college soon as you get out of high school and life will be so much better.

I would encourage my younger self to strive for excellence and greatness because although college life can be somewhat challenging and difficult, I must envision my goals and future. Because the transision from a high school education and environmental setting can be the complete opposite from a university perspective. I would also inform myself as a high school senior to focus the majority of my time on schoolwork and things centered around my education, because time managing can be a tough thing to mange while in college for the simple fact you're on your own for the first time in your life so important decisions will ultimately be left to you. Maturity and responsibility plays a big role in succeeding on a university level, therefore i must do the best of my abilities to reach my goals and succeed. The transition from high school to college is another stage in life to prepare you for the real world and to shape you to be the ideal person you should be in order to advance and achieve your goals. Don't look at college as scary thing because it can be a wonderful experience as well.

I know you haven't quite come out of your shell yet. And trust me, you will. Just remember that staying at home isn't gonna get you anywhere. You are going to have many opportunities in school. Opportunities that will lead to both positive and negative consequences. Just remember one important thing: It is not what we do that we regret, it's what we didn't do. Get out there and do more than just play soccer! Join a club, learn to smile. I know people can be pretty stupid, but that isn't gonna change, and pouting about it won't help you at all. Regardless of what you're thinking right now, you will meet a lot of people and make many friends. Don't take them for granted. One day everyone will leave and unless you actively try to stay in their lives, they'll disappear. Life is about looking back every few years and realizing how stupid you were. Take my advise, trust me. And when you meet that beautiful brunette with the big green eyes, don't hesitate. Grow a pair and kiss her the second she's single. She wants you to.

If I could go back in time and give myself some advice during my senior year of high school, one of the things that I would definitely tell myself would be to push myself harder. Go ahead and take that extra AP class. Get involved in more clubs. Do something that is out of your comfort zone. Work a little harder looking for scholarships. But at the same time, I would tell myself to not stress so much about life. Instead of worrying about every little issue, just relax. You will be okay. The college years will be some of the most educational, yet entertaining years of one's life, so don't waste time worrying about the little stuff. Keep everything in perspective. Do the work, but set aside time for yourself as well. Oh, and one last thing. Don't spend so much money.

First, I would give myself a nice punch and then tell myself that being afraid is okay, but don't hold back just because I am scared that something might not turn out how I thought. I would make sure to highlihgt all the positive things that come out of my experience and say to jump into everything whether or not I think I'm qualified. After I give a nice heartfelt speech, I would tell myself everything about whats to come so I am fully prepared.

To make sure to take the classes only offered during certain semesters in a timely manner, as not doing so could leave you with an extra year of school for only one or two classes remaining. And if transferring to a different university or college to keep the same in mind. Some of the credits won't transfer and while it might not add to the classload by much, it could extend the amount of time it takes to graduate. For example: you cannot take Beginning Japanese and Advanced Japanese in the same semester. Also, to remember that most shcolarship deadlines come at the beginning of the year, sometimes a full year before the award year. The last piece of advice would be to not stress about finances. If you can make it through college without taking out student loans, you will start off in a much better position; not completely up the wall about finding a job that can help you pay back the loans. Working through college and even taking a semester or two off to earn money sets you back only a year, while debt can set you back a lifetime.

I would tell my high school self that it is okay to not know exactly which direction to go. Slow down. Going to a community college first or taking a few years off before continuing an education isn't failing. Self-discovery is more important than most people make it out to be and that discovery happens whether you are in school or not. Most people change their "major." You will change your major! Read about and get referrals for great professors. Don't take everything so seriously. Networking is an important part of college. That's not a bad thing! Listen to your intuition. Listen to your heart! Listen to your heart! Listen to your heart! Study what you have a passion for pursuing. Surround yourself with positive people. Dreams come true!

Get involved in campus activities early. Study harder than you need to because it will be worth it later. Make friends with people in your classes quickly you may need help when the teacher isn't available.

Make the most of your senior year. Do all the sports and activities that you can. Study hard and listen to your teachers and coaches because they really do know what they are talking about when it comes to studying for tests, writing papers and just being responsible for yourself. Always be proud of the choices you make and never second guess yourself. Only you can decide what is best for you in life.

You did well on your ACT but you let yourself down on couple core subjects. Be serious about your high school education and do well in Advanced Placement courses. Get yourself organized and mind your class requirements and assignments to get them in on a timely manner. You have the desire and attitude for higher education; you'll be ready for college.

The things you need to know about college life can be broken down into three categories: Time managment, study habits, and using your resources to their maximum capabilities. Time managment is one of my main categories because if you dont set aside time to study or time to work and do other things, you will waste it. Time is precious to a college student, try to utilize it the best you can with school. Study habits is a very strong category because by not reading or not doing work; procrastinating in other words, you will not accel in your classes the way you should be. What i mean by using your resources to their maximum capabilities is do not be shy, if you school offers tutoring for free, use it. Other things about college will be fairly simple by, managing your time well, studying everyday for classes, and using the resources provided to you by the school.

I would definitely give myself the advice to try alot harder. Getting better grades can definitely get you more money and scholarships and the university I decided to go to requires you to have alot of money. College life is very hard when all your worries are focused on money and working a job every night of the week to pay off loans is not fun. I would also tell myself to not worry so much about my social life in high school as i should of been worrying about applying for scholarships and getting letters of recommendation and volunteering more often. Volunteering in high school is important because getting alot of scholarships requires you to have so many volunteer hours. The transition between high school and college is extreme depending on where you go. Your parents are no longer by your side to guide you in all of your decisions. I would tell high school senior me to try harder at making more decisions for myself instead of falling back on my parents everytime something doesnt go my way. Going to college takes alot of work and every high schooler should start looking into it as a freshman.

The advice I would give myself would be to learn to relax and take time to not be so stressed. I would tell myself let me have fun and try to meet new people. YHowever, I would also say that my hard work would pay off and to keep up with the good work.

You probably don't understand what is going on in your life right now. Everyone is moving on and sometimes things might be a little scary, but deciding to get a degree is not as horrifying as it looks. As long as you maintain confidence, you will do well. All the tests, essays and research papers may seem like a hassle, but you feel really accomplished when you are finished. Last thing you need to know is that people are there to help you. Councilers, family, and future friends will guide you on the road to your future. Good luck and keep your head up. Also, do not forget what you have learned in high school, it is actually really helpful.

If I could go back and give myself advice, it would be to look forward to college more. As a senior, I dreaded graduation, and felt that college would be such a struggle for me. I now know that I was wrong to think like that. This university has provided me with so many opportunities to help me succeed both in the classroom and out of the classroom. I have became involved on campus, and the connections that I have made will definitely help me after college. I have made life long friends here, and I have in no way ever regretted my decision to attend Murray State University. If I had known this information in High School, I wouldn't have dreaded college so much. I feel rather dumb that I used to think this way. College has been one of the best experiences of my life and look forward to all the other opportunities that will present themselves to me in the future.

Dear high school self, College is hard and can be very trying with all of the tests to study for and papers to write, but remember to enjoy the little things. Smile even if the weather is bad or if you're behind on homework that is due in a few hours. College life isn't supposed to be easy, its almost like taking a course on becoming an adult where you won't have mom and dad guiding you through every step you need to take. I know you never wanted to grow up, but college is the time to finish molding the person you want to be in the future. I know you're scared and a little anxious about starting to do things on your own, but you are smart enough to figure out how to handle all of the things that come your way; and don't forget you are not alone. God is with you and he will guide you to where you need to be to fulfill the plan he has made for you. Make some good friends, study really hard, have fun, and believe in yourself. See ya in the future, Kelsey McCain

During my few months here attending Murray, I've learned so much. I have gained knowledge from all of my classes. I've learned how to manage my time and study when necessary. I've learned how to be more social and communicate with my classmates. I now know what it's like to be on my own, take care of myself and clean up after myself. To me, it's been valuable to attend college to help me get myself where I want to be in life. Unlike other colleges, Murray offers classes that jump you right into what your future will hold. Being a Pre-Vet Major, I've gotten hands-on experience with all animals in the field from kittens to horses. I know this experience will help me out greatly in my future. College isn't easy, it requires a lot of studying. But I know it will be well worth it later on.

I consider my most recent college experience as a second chance in life. I completed an associates degree many years ago and began working on a bachelor's degree, but basically "life happened". My previous profession was connected to real estate and mortgages and needless to say, I was laid off a couple of years ago. Going back to school has provided me with a new hope and to fulfill some long awaited dreams. Dreams I thought were long gone and would never be attainable. I think that a college education is invaluable, especially in the current economy. I think it teaches a person to overcome fear; fear of the unknown and fear of rejection. I am a true believer that knowledge is power and without knowledge, people become stagnant and stop dreaming their dreams. No matter who someone is, young or old, we all have dreams. This second chance I have been granted has given me a renewed hope in life, almost a rebirth, and has given me a chance to once dream again and accomplish goals I had long given up on.

Moving away from home and living on your own can prove to be difficult for any college student; however in my case, I had to overcome my fair share of extra obstacles. Born with Chondro Dysplasia Punctata, a rare form of dwarfism, I’ve dealt with many physical challenges all my life. Because of this, getting a college education and becoming independent was always extremely important to me. Although, a year ago, if you told me during my first college semester I would have gotten a job, helped pay my bills, been involved in college council and done my own laundry, I probably wouldn’t have believed you. However, in four short months, I did these things and more. In my college experience, I’ve learned so much and I’ve proved not only to others but myself that a disability does not disable you from having independence and pursuing what you want in life.

College has given me a new lease on learing. It is not like highschool, I look foward to going to class. I love to learn new things and to be challenged! I love taking diffrent classes and learing new things about things the I have no idea about. Classes are great to get to become a more well rounded person and it shows you how little you know about the world. College has challenged me to become a better person because it forces you to stick with something even if you don't want to be there and forces you to do things even if you dont want to. College has made me a stonger person and a more rounded person.