Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus Top Questions

That its something you have to work at and keep working on dont let your grades fall because it is terribly hard to play ketchup.You may have work and like to go have fun but you have to organize everything to where it will not effect anything else with getting that done. Yes problems or situation may occur but you have to learn to either work around them or work your way through them. For example getting a 4 page essay due in 2 days but you may have to work 12 hr shifts the next tonights? So you just have Buckle down and keep your head turned the right way..

If I were to go back in time and advise my senior self, I will tell myself to make a suitable skill to studying. It took me until my junior year to realized the best way to study. When I first started college, I did not have to study so much for my general courses. Since I am in my major courses, I brought in my freshmen and sophmore years studying skills. I learned the hard way that the way that I use to study is not the way I should be studying and is definitely not the way I should be studying if I want to survive in medical school. Better late than never, I am glad that I recognized my bad studying habits and changed it for the future of my education.

If I was given the opportunity to go back in time and give myself a piece of advise that would help my in college, it would be to not take my family for granted. My younger brother is only two years younger than me, we are practically the same age, and I have maybe spoken 1,000 words to him over the past year. Before I did not relize how close we could have been if only we spent more time with each other or talk a little more. I feel like I never really got a chance to know my brohter Now it is to late to have the kind of relationship that we could have had. Over the next few summers I will be spending my time working, and so will he. Then he will got away to college, somewhere other than Penn State, so we probally will not communicate much. Throughout high school we were never close to each other but if I could go back in time I would tell myself to form a better relationship with my brother so that when we are older will keep in touch and have stories to tell our kids.

Dear Keaira, Although you may think you do not know me, you will soon discover by the end of this letter that you know me a more than you thought. As a senior in high school, you will make some of the best memories of your life, but remember to maintain your high academic standards and work harder than you ever have. Every grade you receive can determine the rest of your life. I know you have dreams of becoming a doctor and attending one of the world's finest colleges and medical schools, but you will soon come to realize that those things may not always be what is best for you specifically. Do what you love and what makes you happy, and most importantly, always do your best, because that's the best you can do. In college, there is constant temptation to drink, party, have sex, and to skip class, but remember how you were raised. Stay true to yourself and to God. Do not become influenced by others, for you can study now and reap the benefits later when your a successful adult making a change in the world. Yours Truly, Keaira (Penn State '13)

There are so many things that I would say to myself as a high school senior if I could go back in time. First of all, I would congradulate myself on picking an amazing college. I would then remind myself that even though I was anxious for college and to begin the next chapter of life, I should take advantage of the time in high school that I have left. High school was an amazing experience for me. The activities I participated in there and the friends I made in the process made me a more confident, outgoing person who is open to all opportunities that life brings. This has served me well in college as a freshman and I am thankful for having such blessings. I also would tell myself not to stress out as much about college. I would explain about how quickly I would bond with my roommate and other girls on my floor, and how my freshman year at college would be one of the best times in my life. I would encourage myself to be open and accepting to all things. If this to myself as a senior would make my freshman year even better!

If I could go back, I would tell myself to perhaps not fall in love with a school until I saw the price tag. I'm currently in quite a financial trench, and I can't convince myself to leave Penn State because I fell in love with it. The academics are fun and exciting, the people are everything I'd hoped they'd be, and the activites never leave you bored or lonely. I just wish I could have fallen in love with a more affordable school; maybe then I wouldn't be in this predicament.

Dear Self, First, buy How to Become a Straight-A Student by Cal Newport from cover-to-cover and treat it as the word of God. Hate to say this, but you?re not mature enough to go away to college. Competition is fierce and you will be eaten alive. Withdraw from film school ; it?s a great aspiration but you?re no Steven Spielberg. Save money by attending community college for two years. Connect with yourself and excel in class. For the love of God, TAKE SCIENCE COURSES. These will make you a well-rounded student with more opportunities. After two years, transfer to a 4-year college (your perfect match is Penn State). Pursue journalism with lustrous zeal and join the college newspaper. Rise to the top, embracing your experience along the way. These are the best years of your life. Good grades will come, and opportunity will follow. Intern during your junior and senior year and apply to graduate school. May I suggest pursuing a doctorate of physical therapy? This will put you where I am now-except three years earlier. And dump Caitie after your freshman year-she didn?t love you anyway. Sincerely, Self+7

If I could give myself a single piece of advice about what to expect during my transition into college it can be summed into two words: be flexible. Many unexpected issues come up in the first semester which range in all levels of seriousness. Whether you're dealing with a roomate who listens to techno music constantly or realizing that your life-plan to be a nuclear engineer are no longer right for you, you need to be flexible. Force yourself to realize that your life isn't in your control and problems need to be handled constructively. Realize that your dream from eighth grade may not be the perfect fit for you. But that's okay, because no matter what university you're currently at, there are numerous possibilities to find the perfect program for you.

If i could travel back in time to when I was a high school senior I would advise myself to put more effort into taking the time out to actually understand the concepts of materials instead of just doing the bare minimum in order to get by. In high school i only put forth the minimum requirement and never pushed myself to go the extra mile. While that might have worked for me back then, I quickly learned that it would not get me by in college. Although I was able to adapt to the necessary changes I had to make, I wish I would have already possessed this knowledge, giving myself a hands up. Also, I would advise myself to establish better studying and note taking habits. While I may get good grades, my studying habits are the worse. I would rather work on having an understanding of the material instead of trying to memorize it.

I would tell myself to work harder and put more effort into my senior year of high school because really, it might have made my transition to college a little easier. "Senioritis" is one of the worst diseases that a high schooler can catch because it decreases motivation and causes them to miss out on some valuable knowledge that the lack thereof will inevitably come back to haunt them. That one day in chemistry when you fall asleep just so happens to be one of the topics on the first chemistry exam of your first semester, and suddenly, you're off to a bad start. College is all about new experiences and making new friends, joining new clubs and exploring new places, but the bottom line is that one is there to learn, work hard, and earn a degree, not expect one to be handed to them. There is no substitute for hard work and dedication.

Going back to my high school self, I would simply tell me not to worry so much. College is a major stepping stone on the path through life but it's not all that different from high school or much scarier then transitioning from elementary to middle school or middle school to high school. Most of the people are the same and very relatable since in your first year you're mostly around other freshmen. Going into college, I was afraid I wouldn't be able to handle the work load or feel comfortable in a dorm. However, now I really enjoy the independence of having my own place and I feel that all the Advanced Placement classes I took in high school really prepared me for the college workload - some of it is even easier then what I had to do in high school. I think, like most high school seniors, I worried too much about the simple transition that I didn't realize I've done a few times in the past. College is something to be conscientious of, but it's not the scary monster we fear hiding under our beds.

I was terrified as a senior. Soon, I?d be at college, alone, with new responsibilities with new sure-to-eat-me upperclassmen and professors. Looking back, I think I?d be able to alleviate that fear, if I could offer my younger self some advice. First of all (I would tell myself), take a deep breath. It's a big change, but you won't die. Yes, there are lots of new people, but that also means there are more people just like you! You can find a new group of friends, ones just as quirky and amazing as you, in clubs or youth groups or sororities. No one will eat you, I promise; you?re too tough for them. And new responsibilities? Sure, classes are tougher, but you did well enough in high school to get yourself accepted! Keep trying your best, and your professors will see, understand, and appreciate your efforts. If you?ve any doubt, sit in the front row of the class?trust me, it helps. See? College isn?t so bad. You can take my word for it, but you?ll soon find out for yourself. Good luck!

Much time lies ahead in my college career, but I have learned so much already through my college experiences. As I look back to high school, I had a successful academic transcript and participated in countless activities, but there are some things I wish I had been more prepared for. College life is all about independence; you are responsible for your choices, no one is telling you what you can and cannot do anymore. Hence, time management will be a big challenge. Learn how to set up an efficient schedule in which you can get ahead in all coursework, yet still participate in the social activities that fit your interests. Also, I realize it is essential to keep an open mind. With so many new people around, you need to find and develop relationships again. Friends have a large influence and impact on your personality and academic career; you need to be able to stay focused. In addition, I encourage you to take part in as many activities as possible. Not only will they build your resume and prepare you for the future but also allow you to meet new people and experience new challenges. Finally, never ever give up!

I would ensure that I was ready to take college classes. I came in here thinking it would be like high school and I wouldnt have to study. That wasnt the case at all. You need to devote ample amount of time to your studying, because if you dont you'll fall behind as quick as you got started. Also, I would just make sure you are open to other cultures, races, and just being around other people. My biggest fear was coming here and not fitting in, and now that I'm here and have experienced everything; you dont have to act like that, because there are thousands of other students in the same position.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to research my college choices more thoroughly. For example, I would tell myself to find out if there were any interesting clubs or organizations I could be a part of during my time at Penn State. Also, I would tell myself to utilize online textbook sites such as www.half.com or www.amazon.com. By using these sites just days ago this semester, I saved nearly three hundred dollars on textbooks. That amount of money can go a very long way in a college environment like University Park. One more piece of advice I would give myself is to go out of my comfort zone to meet new friends. I wish that I stuck my neck out more than I did during my first semester here. Penn State has so much potential to provide great new friends, but I discovered that I had to take the initiative of introducing myself. If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, those are a few pieces of advice I would mention.

If I could go back in time and speak with myself, my first piece of advice would be to stay focused. In college, especially ones as large as Pennsylvania State University, it's easy to get side tracked with parties and social life, rather than what is truely important, your education. The conversation wouldn't be all serious though. I would tell myself secondly " Don't rush, take your time, and do your best." Parents have said it over and over again as you grow from a teenager to a young adult to an adult. Try your hardest in any class you have no matter how hard the class is or how much you struggle to grasp the matierial. Third, I would tell myself to get tutoring if needed. College is a huge stress on students especially when trying to learn matierial for six different subjects and expected to keep your grades above average. Get help if you need it especially if it's free. Lastely, I would tell myself to set goals. Short term and lorn term goals are great motivators to do your best, work hard, and succeed. Success is rewarding and boosts your self esteem.

Staying in your room almost everyday can limit your interactions. Facebook does not count as social interaction as much as face to face conversation. Go to the involvement fair to find clubs and volunteer activities. Don't be afraid to try out new things such as belly dancing and archery. As for your classes, look around for more interesting classes such as Greek and Roman Literature, Plants, People, & Places, Asian American History, and Medieval Civilization. It is very important to fulfill your general education requirements, but have fun doing so. Don't forget to ask about classes outside of your major to be counted for your major requirements. Pick some minors you like. Please get a planner and use it to the max!! Write down assignments, due dates, club meetings, daily list, etc. It will help you so much so that there's not too much post-its around your desk. Study harder as well. Force yourself to sit down, put on your ipod, and study for at least four hours. If you don't understand the material, GO GET HELP!!! A tutor and the professor would love the questions you have and will help you to their fullest power.

High school?s been such a breeze, with a fair workload, extracurricular activities, and parents at home to do chores or favors for me. Sure, college will require more studying time and more time management from me, but I?m sure it won?t be too different. Currently in my sophomore year in college now, I have passed over the high school-to-college transition stage, and adapted to the new collegiate life, requiring independence. I learned that, clearly, that my thoughts entering college were false and that the transition would be more challenging than expected. Along with the increased schoolwork and activities that I expected, came laundry duties, making food, and much more. No more parents to kick me in the butt or to remind me of my responsibilities?I was now alone, and had to step up to independence. College professors, unlike high school teachers do not take attendance, or care whether students turn in homework. Students have to be responsible enough to go to class and turn in all of their work without reminders and incentives, besides their own will to learn. So, to my old high school senior self, I need to be prepared for independence.

Make sure you find the school for you. This college experience is all about you and what you want to make of your life. I made sure I researched all the school before I saw them. Take time to visit every single school you are interested in and ask as many questions as you want about the school, including the housing, food, and sports teams, whatever you need to make the school feel like it is going to be "your" school. Once you get into the college of your choice, get involved early. Consider your interests and research any clubs or organizations that you may want to take part in. Also, during the first couple weeks of school, get to know your school advisor. Advisors always steer you in the right direction concering what classes to take and what resources you can use around the school, such as tutoring or career services. Remember, all professors want to see you succeed. Also, time management is important. The last words of advice I have which was given to me my senior year is buy a door stop for your dorm room, no door stop, no friends (partly true). Good Luck Seniors!

The single most important advice I would give is to keep your dorm room door open. I cannot emphasize how important it is to make friends with the people on your floor. You will want to be friends with them for social reasons, to go out with, for study reasons, to help you when your upset, and for just hanging out. It is so important to feel like you have a close group of friends near you. That way, you will always have something to do or someone to talk to, and this can be one of the best ways to enjoy your college career. Its so simple, but simply having a group to go get dinner in the cafeteria with will make a world of difference. If you get bored too much, you might start to feel lonely, and that's never good. So my advice is to keep your door open and put yourself out there. Go knock on your neighbors doos and hang out. This may seem awkward at first, but it's the best way to make friends, and having friends is the best way to enjoy college!

What I would tell myself as a high school senior would be that living on your own, is harder than you think. Coming into college I thought it would be all fun and games, but you really have to learn to become independent. It's great to keep in touch with your parents, but they're not there with you every day to tell you when to make your bed, do your laundry or even your homework. The best advice would be to learn time management. In high school, I used to always put things off until the last minute. I've learned being at college that it is better to do things early and one step at a time. Also getting involved is the best way to meet new people, which was a challenge for me because I have a tendancy to be very shy. Take college each day at a time, and sometimes you even have to look at it one hour at a time.

Knowing what I know now, if i were to go back in time I would tell myself not to stress about the little things and to learn how to deal with sticky situations on my own as best I can, because there is nothing like the bittersweet feeling of being on your own. Even though you get the benefits and satisfaction of independence at the same time you have to deal with the every consequence of your actions in and outside of school, where not every question has a black and white answer.

I would tell myself that nothing else matters at this point but my education. I would tell myself that the thrill of being known will get me no where if i don't do good in school. I would tell me to wait till a later time to have my children because in the end they have a better life if i'm well established and sucessful. That the only things that are important are high school graduation and college. I would tell me that even if i still did the same things i've done, not to give up on my dreams because dreams dont die people just stop believing in them.

Quit worrying about life after high school and the fact that you won't be living at home all the time anymore. It's not going to be that bad of a transition and that when graduating from high school don't lose the ties that you had with your high school friends, but still go out and make new friends within the college you go to. College will be the best years of your life, so make the most of it. Go and try hard to earn good grades, don't worry about anything unimportant, but most importantly make the most out of your college years, instead of worrying about what's going on at home. Network with everyone you can, because one day one of those freshman year contacts you made may end up being the professional connection you need to be successful in your career for the rest of your life.

Do not freak out about starting college. I was valedictorian of my class and was worried I'd flunk out of Penn State. But as long as you plan out your time wisely and just get your work done, college really isn't that hard. It's all about time management. I also worried about making friends; my first day here, I just wanted to leave because I didn't know anyone. But, just be outgoing, introduce yourself to others, join clubs, and have a positive attitude. If you lock yourself in your room, you won't meet anyone. But when I joined clubs on campus and began talking to people in my classes, I made some friends that I know I'll be with for the rest of my college career. It's college, so it gives you the chance to just start over, be yourself, and live your life the way you want, not how you did in high school; taking advantage of the factor really allows you to succeed and to be happy in college.

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior there are three things I would want to stress one work on your study habits now you will need them in the future and two don?t ever assume a class will be easy just because you took a similar course in high school and three don?t skip out on homework and go out with your friends too much. The reason I would tell myself to work your study habits is because like a lot of high school students I never really had to study in high school and when I got to college my first semester I had to learn how quickly because of how much harder college classes are. I would tell myself not to assume a class is easy just because you took a similar one in high school is because college classes are a lot harder and require more work. Finally I would tell myself not to skip out on homework and go out with your friends is because it will help you especially if you?re struggling in that class even if the homework is only to read a chapter.

College is like a dresser of clothes?it?s a unique collection of personality crammed into a small space. First off, variety is crucial. Just as 10 pairs of blue t-shirts aren?t very exciting, neither are back to back classes and clubs all on the same topic. The key is to try new things; even if they?re not a perfect fit, you?ll never be left wondering ?what if.? You will most likely be left wondering how a few things got in there. It?s OK, occasional memory loss happens to the best of us. College is a busy time. There probably will not be room for everything. Like a dresser, the better you are at organizing, the more that can be crammed into the space available. Lastly, college is like a dresser because you need lots of socks. The more you have the less laundry there is to do!

Of all of the words of advice or wisdom I have gleaned from my three years in college, I feel that the best advice I could have given myself back then would be to stay focused, but do not worry so much. I have spent these past three years with a great deal of fear in my heart over the outcome of each test and the outcome of my entire college career. Now as I am fast approaching the end of my time here, I am beginning to see what the entire experience is actually all about. The fear of having debt an no job is not the thing which I fear now. What I fear from this entire experience now is that I will not have developed myself enough while worrying about scores. The friends, activities, and personal lessons that we develop in college are just as important as our education, but apply much farther than simply what profession we end up in. We may not find a job with our degree, and we may not have an easy time paying off our debt. What we can secure for ourselves in college is a strong sense of self.

Don't be afraid to go somewhere far away from family and friends. There are so many opportunities to meet new people so you will have no problem fitting in. Be sure to do a lot of research on the schools you are thinking to attend. The more research you do the better you will find which college would suit you. Make sure to let your guard down and open up to those around you because chances are they are scared of being in college too. Stand up for what you beleive in. Don't be afaid to be yourself because if you are yourself you will find friends who will accept you for who you are. Be sure to start practicing good study habits because once you get to college you need to know your stuff to get good grades and you can't slack like in high school.

If I were able to go back to my high school self as a senior and give advice for the college life transition, I would just tell myself to live in the present. I have struggled learning that I do not have the power to be in control of everything at all times. There are certain things that I can control, but as far as schedules, order, and depending on different plans, I have become more lenient. It was scary thinking how old we were going to college and dealing with all the changes, such as moving away from home, all my friends and most imortantly family. It took a little while for me to embrace the idea of change and to welcome the new definition of the norm. The thing I would emphasize most if I had the opportunity to talk to my younger self would be the control issue. I would have loved to come to college with a more flexible mind-set and able to handle changes better. Too bad we cannot time travel, although I would not change a thing. It was fun.

Zack - when you go off to Penn State, make sure that you put school first. Its overwhelming the first couple of weeks with all the distrations such as making friend, weekend parties, and student organizations. Set aside time in the day to work on your schoolwork. Look at it like its a job - between the hours of 9-5 you should be working like you are getting paid. Thats the only way you can get your moneys worth out of your tuition. Also, remember that you will only get out - what you put in. When it comes to school dont be afraid to reach out to your proffesors and ask questions when you need it. Penn State will be amazing, go to every football game, get active in student organizations, and volunteer organizations like Habitat for Humanity and THON. Most of all - - - TAKE TIME TO BREATHE IN THE FRESH AIR!!!

I would advise my past self that the career goal and path I would inevitably take is the one that includes the many interests and hobbies I had as a young man, before graduating high school. My interests in intricate architecture, efficiency (organization and understanding how to make something work better), and conformity of ideas and functions in real world applications. I would advise him of the opportunity that a career in Environmental Psychology is all inclusive of such ideas, so that he would not be so indecisive and confused as to what to do. It was a very awkward experience to not know what to do. Starting college out as a freshmen really put me into the "driver's seat" of making my own decisions. Especially the one big, significant decision that would decide what I do with the rest of my life! As my father often tells me, "Do what makes you happy, what you can enjoy doing. Don't pick a career path just because it has a lot of money in it." I would tell my past self that Dad is correct on that!

I would tell myself to slow down and relax. These four years will go by faster than you would ever imagine, so don?t wish them away. Although it is important to try your best in high school, it is not nearly as serious or important as college. High school is the time to make as many friends as you can and to have as many good experiences as possible. You have no major obligations to fulfill or worries to preoccupy your mind, so make the best of this time in your life. But remember to keep a healthy balance; do some things to help prepare for life outside of high school like working on the weekends or applying for scholarships. Start looking into colleges early and make an educated decision on which school you would like to attend. Do not just pick a university because your friends are going there or because you like the football team. In the end, just remember that this is your life and ultimately what you do is your decision, so be sure you are making the right one.

If I could go back, I would tell myself to live and enjoy every minute, because they disappear so quickly. Don't dwell on regrets; they become life lessons. I'd tell myself to get ready for the best years of my life. Though they will be challenging, they will be filled with learning, friends, love, and success. I would not change a thing because I am having the time of my life and I wouldn't give up any part of it. I would advise myself not to try and anticipate what each day will be like, but just to live them to the max, no matter how tired or stressed I'll be the next day. You only get one shot at this college thing, so you have to do it big...or you might as well not go at all.

Dear Self, There are nothing like high school dreams. I know you want to play for the Nittany Lions Football squad one day, over the summer do some research on your career goals as well as success rates of football players, including their strength of schedule and majors. If after researching you decide not to play football, get involved. There are so many opportunities and it just takes minimal time and effort to be a part of something bigger. There are plenty of opportunities at Penn State, like Thon, the fundraiser for children's cancer that raises several million dollars each year, Blue & White society, Student Government, Club sports, IM sports, as well as other interesting clubs. There's even a club for your major, Kinesiology, to get involved and start networking as early as September in your first semester! I know you're a huge procrastinator in high school because the challenge just isn't there, but college is a totally new ball game. If you work hard in school during the day, you can play harder later after all your work is done. Last of all, keep that dream of working for the NFL, anything is possible.

Apply to those colleges until you get in and scholarships until you receive them all. have fun!!!!!

To start off, I would have definitely applied to more colleges. I only applied to two, and I got accepted into one and rejected by the other. So I would say I was a bit lucky on that aspect. I also would of done more after-school activities. They too play a part in the selection process. I did do theatre all 4 years (which showed consistency), but it wouldn't have hurt to take on an extra activity to show that I was a well-rounded person. Apart from that, I would advise to have more confidence when entering college and to really focus. I admit that I slacked a bit during my first year and I am now trying to fix that my second year. But I have learned from my mistakes and am making better decisions. But as I said earlier, confidence is key. Get up, meet new people, tell yourself that you can do it. You will definitely feel better about yourself. And when you feel that way, you will be able to enjoy college a lot more.

My advice would be to keep your dorm room door propped open when you are in it so that people on your floor can pass by and say hello. Also, do the same and say hello to everyone you see in the halls, bathroom, or with their door open because you will make friends that way. Everyone really is in the same situation and trying to make friends. Sitting in the front of the class is very helpful and printing out notes or powerpoints from the teachers to take notes on is the best. Go to class and be attentive!

Everything won?t happen as you want. When you go to James Madison University, you?ll be overwhelmed from the stress of grandma being terminally ill. It?s the scariest thing when you decide a college isn?t for you, and come home. Things happen for a reason, you?ll end up where you want to be, just be patient. It?s ok to enroll in a local college to save money. College classes are very intimidating at first, but keep a good attitude and believe in yourself, because there?s nothing you can?t accomplish if you put your mind to it. Don?t let the atmosphere intimidate you. Everyone is on the same level: scared of failure, unsure of their future plans, and searching for some direction. Now this is the most important part, Grandma will pass away your first year enrolled at school. It?s very hard, but don?t get discouraged. She loves you and wants you to do well. As hard as it is to believe, everything will be okay. Stay motivated, that way with a high GPA, you can transfer to your dream school. Everything works out in the end. Don?t be afraid.

I would tell myself to be very open minded about making my decision in finding a good univiersity to go to. And when I also got there, I would try to practice better time managment as a freshman, becasue that can be one of the hardest thing to learn how to get used to and master. And i would also tell my self not to be scared to get involved as a freshman, and it would make my college experience much more worthwhile. And also take advantage of all of the opportunities offered to me at my university that will make my academic and social life much better in the long run as well.

As a high school senior, I remember feeling as if college was going to be a piece of cake. I made it through my senior year with all A's and most teachers spoke to Central Columbia's class of 2009 as if college was going to be just like our senior year. The only advice we really got were "Study hard and go to class!" College is so much more than that simple six letter phrase. College is about time management because in high school, you were stuck in a building for about six hours. College gives students more free time and some students don't know how to handle this added freedom. College is about personal drive. In high school, teachers and parents were constantly urging students to do homework and get good grades. In college, the student is the only person responsible for keeping up with homework and passing classes. Last, college is about independence. The shift from the parents house to a dorm is such a dramatic change and I wish I prepared myself better for the change. College is all about being prepared for a life of independence and starting to shape your future.

High school is a totally different world than college and real life. Let go of the petty cliques and popularity contests. Have fun, be yourself and stop worrying about what others think. You will be happier and surprise, surprise...you will actually make MORE friends this way. Stop judging people and just talk to them, see what they're about. College is a time to get to know yourself and everyone else too. Remember that you are at college to get a degree, but it's also much more than that. Leave high school back home and in the past, where it belongs, and let yourself breathe and grow in your new environment. Don't waste a semester figuring this out, start right away. You will be so glad you did.

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior about college I would say that high school and college are completely different. Grades don't come as easy in college as they did in high school. You need to read, study hard, and attend all your classes. Also teachers aren't going to push you as much to get your work done; you have to find the motivation to get done and turned in on time. You also have to find the motivation to get involved. No one is going to tell you what club to join or what you should do in college. You have to attend events, try different things, meet new people, and find where you fit in. Its okay to feel confused, scared, and anxious; almost everyone has the same feelings when starting college. You're at the beginning of decided what you want your life to be and who you want to be. Just remember to live each day to the fullest and reach for your dreams because the time will go fast.

I chose to attend a very big college, so I would tell myself to walk on campus the first semester open to anything new. With students here from all across the country, and even the world, it is important to be open to all cultures and extracurriculars. There are hundreds of clubs and activities offered here, so do not be afraid to go to as many initial meetings as possible. Attend the clubs and activities fair, and get information from half of the booths. Trust me when I say that there is no obligation to go back. Just keep yourself very busy and open the first semester, and then narrow your interests down after that, because you may find something you love to do that you never even thought about in the first place.

If i could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, i would tell myself not to choose a school based on who i knew that was going there. It's nice knowing people in a new place, but college is a great place to meat new people. I wouldnt tell myself to completely forget my old friends because i love them to death, but i've seen friendships from home get messed up at school because its just not the same atmosphere and i would never want that to happen with my friends. I would also tell myself to get a job, and work all summer long to have money saved up for school.

The one thing I would tell myself is that I don't believe there is one perfect college for anyone. I think what makes a person's college experience great is how you react to situations. Basically, if you are willing, you could make any university a great university for yourself. It is important that you go to a college that has a good program of study you are considering, or any specific club or organization you can't live without but the rest is up to you. You make your own college experience what it will be.

When you go on a campus visit, spend time walking around. Alone. A lot of times, when walking with a tour group or with your family, you're occupied with the exciting sights and facts and promises that college will offer you. But when you finally enroll to a university, the majority of the time you spend will be on your own. Try visiting the campus when its busy. Try visiting it when no one is around. Maybe even get a hotel room nearby, and get a feel for how the campus business ebbs and flows throughout the day. Eat the food; could you stand eating that every day, all day? Check what social events are on calenders. See if you can find people that you'd like to become friends with. Basically, see if the school gives you a comfortable environment for you, as you are right now. Simply starting life as a college freshman does not mean you hit a reset button and become a new person. If it doesn't feel absolutely right to you as you are, move on, because that university will become your home for the next 4 years.

If I could go back in time and give myself advice, I would tell myself to be prepared. The future is scarier and more surprising than I believed it would be. I would also tell myself to learn how to study differently and how to focus better. It was such a change from high school that it was not nearly the same. I, like many other students, were blindsided by the change one would have to make to succeed in college because high school came easy to me and I excelled naturally. Now that I'm in college and with many other students that were like me, its more challenging and difficult. Therefore, "Sarah of 2007, be careful. Life is fully or more surprises than you believe there will be. College will change your life for the better. Don't worry though, you make it through alive."

The first semester is very stressful; however, by taking AP classes and community college classes, the mandatory classes for the university-which are extremely crowded-are eleminated. In addition, invest time into finding a compatiable roommate, and do not just accept the randomly assignmed roommate the university gives you. By finding someone that fits you, and your life style, you will be more comfortable in your room, and less stressed out. Don't put off studying for midterms and completing homework assignments. Find someone that can help you, or find a resoruce center or tutoring center that can aide you in better studying and understanding course work. Ensure you have "me-time" in order to relax and take your mind off of school a few hours a week. Make sure you are organized and know what you are suppose to be doing, and how you should properly study for each of your classes. It will take a while to find a comfortable study habit, but once you have it down, stick with it. In closing, you may also consider a school not close to home. This can distract you from school, and negatively impact your college career.

The only way that my freshman college experience could have possibly been enhanced would have been if I had just entered with a different state of mind! High School Self, just relax okay? I know you're worried about the big transition and how it's going ot feel like and if you're going to make friends and if you're going to be able to handle the coursework...but you're simply stressing out too much! The only thing you did have to worry about was getting used to studying harder which is a thought that didn't even enter your mind. One of my teachers already told me, and i know youlff find this useful, "In college...being smart just isn't enough. Work for it!" But relax and the transition will be way easier for you. Good friends are not that hard to come by if you look hard enough and, trust me, this place will meet all your other expectations too. Rid yourself of your anxieties and face this new place with an open heart and a smile on your face.