Plymouth State University Top Questions

If I were in high school now, I would work harder and harder to get the highest scores possible that would allow me to take college level classes instead of wasting time and money taking developmental classes. I would compete for the highest GPA like if I were competing for a championship or a world cup game. High school scores are the key to an easy step in college easy life. If I were in high school now I would make studies my first and very important priority. I would sleep fewer hours and canceal any other things that would waste my valuable study time. According to my actual degree and my future prefered career, languages are very important. So, if I were in high school now I would concentrate on taking more foreign languages classes and work on mastering at least 3 languages especially English and Spanish. High school is an easy step of education in comparison with college. So, If I were in high school now I would plan on learning as much as I can and I would calculate the minutes and the seconds so as not to waste that valuable time.

I am a non traditional student, so in a way I can look back and make changes to my behavior to what is was when I was first in college. The first piece of advice I would give is don't be afraid to try new things, you'll meet so many great people and have such great experiences that you'll never forget, so keep an open mind. The next advice, having fun is great but remember that college is for an education, and it's expensive. Loans are with you for years to come, so make it worth the money. For alot of students, it's their first experience away from home, there's alot to learn about especially in financial and time management skills. College is a learning experience in prioritization and it can difficult. Keep your eye on the prize and your future.

If I could step back in time and give myself advice as to the transition from high school to college, I would start by saying "slow down". When we are in that graduation speed race and college acceptance furry, we forget to really look at whats best for ourselves. We all know we need to go to college but we do not realize how important the decisions we are making really are. Slow down and consider why you want to go to college. Consider why you have your eye set on specific colleges. Think about what the benefits of staying on campus might be as opposed to living at home if you are close enough. As adults we have been able to learn from some of these "off the cuff" decisions that were made, and the only advice I can give with certainty is to slow down and appreciate the process. When you make the final transition and are alone at campus, remember mom and dad are only a phone call away. We want that independance and need to understand that it is not failure to miss home and to scared. Take your time and remember mom and dad.

Entering college I was reminded repeatedly about the important balance between school work and social life. I knew that living away from home without my parents would be a true test whether I could handle the freedom that so many upcoming students long for. The first week of school especially I made it my priority to put myself out there and make many new friends that give you a friendly and welcoming feeling. It just so happened that none of my classmates from my high school attended PSU, you are able to be yourself and open up to others that you may have never met if you didnt go to college. Higher education is a valuable tool where it is designed to make you think while networking with other classmates in collaboration. After living at school not too long I realized that the friends that im making everyday at school, are also a resource when it comes to shaping our minds by brainstorming or creating new ideas. You never can have too many friends so my advice is to meet as many new people as possible to make it an enjoyable experience.

I would tell myself to do my work more. It does matter that you hand in something late or only put half the effort into it, it makes you look lazy and bad and If you dont get good grades then you wont be able to get scholarships as easy as someone who is doing well in school and you will have to put in more effort and running around last minute to find what you can to pay for your education. It feels better when you see A, A, B instead of C, B-, C on report cards. Do not make quick judgments on people because you do not know where they have been, give everyone a chance and if they prove you other wise or if they give you a bad vibe then you dont have to deal with it but just be kind. I would also tell myself you really can do this, you are ready, living with new people is no problem all you have to do is speak up. Dont be afraid to say what you mean, if someone disagrees or doesnt understand, there are ways to work it out. Be tough. Stand tall.

The advice I would give myself is be realistic with yourself and to accept the fact that there is no shame in taking your time when it comes to getting through college. The reason I would tell my past self this is because I have made a lot of hasty and impractical decisions in my college career. For example, when I graduated from high school I got accepted to the University of Maryland but had no means to pay for the cost of tution. I decided to get a part time job in order to pay for college in addition to be full time at the University. That turned out to be a major mistake, as my amount of work I put into my job overshadowed the amount of work I put into school. It was at that point that I realized that I can't rush through college. Furthermore, I had to be frank with myself and know what I can realisticly do and what is beyond my limit.

There big different between High school and college are time and self-responsibility. In high school you spend more time in class but in college you have less in class and more work to finish out of class. If I was to start over in high school I could more force on time management, and take more courses to review some of the college courses. I will also plan to save money that will help me while going to college.

No one in my family has ever gone to college. I was not adequately informed about anything relating to college. I would tell myself that every class counts. Each grade you make matters. I would also tell myself to take the ACT as a senior instead of just once as a junior. I was not even aware that I needed to apply for aid and admission to colleges before I graduated high school. Honestly, I did not even know I needed books! I would inform myself of all these things. I had to figure everything out the hard way, and that put me at a disadvantage. I suppose it wasn't my fault, though. I would also tell myself to concentrate more on school than socializing or partying. Education is important, especially now that I'm a mother. I would plead to myself to focus on long term consequences instead of short term fun. I would tell myself to not be afraid and that each good decision reaps a good harvest.

Life is all about choices. Choose to be prepared. Listen to your instructors for good study strategies. Take notes, record lectures, and research helpful websites. Get extra help for difficult classes. Choose to take chances. Believe in yourself. Share your good ideas with others and listen to their contributions. Work together to put your good ideas into action. Choose to get involved. Build a network of friends and colleagues who support and encourage eachother. Help motivate eachother with rewards for jobs well done. Choose to work hard. Have fun but work hard. You will reap what you sow. Go for it...IT'S YOUR CHOICE!!

If I were to go back in time and talk to myself as a senior, I would inform myself of how college is set up. Going from 30 hours of school per week to 15 hours of school per week is nice; but you make up for the missing 15 hours in homework. The work in college is more demanding and requires more thought to complete; I would tell myself to make sure I know all required material before going to class everyday. I would also advise myself to keep a very organized schedule because college is full of deadlines and meetings. Having so many deadlines and meetings makes it easy to space things, especially if you just try to remember everything. Lastly, I would tell myself to get involved as much as possible. The first semester of college seems weird because you don't know your surroundings yet. In order to get rid of this feeling you should go out and get involved with things you see going on around campus, it makes for a great opportunity to meet new people.

I'd tell myself to work harder. I've had a tough time making the transition from culinary school to my new career choice. I've had awful health issues which have changed my perception of what I should be doing with my life, and the decision to go back to school is not only exciting, but terrifying. I suppose I'd do a few things differently if I had the opportunity to do so. However, I wouldn't be who I am today without everything I've gone through in my life. I learned to appreciate everything life has offered and am thrilled to return to school. I like to explain to myself how expensive schooling today actually is. I believe that would have been a deciding, and motivating factor if I could have been better informed on that situation.

Regardless of the obstacles you faced as an adolescent, mountains are about to move out of the way and opportunities beyond your wildest dreams are going to occur. Push through the turmoil. Have faith in yourself and others. Your are brighter than you think you are and you can do anything you put your mind to. Your persistance will carry you far. Be wise in your decisions. There is a lot of freedom on the otherside of the door. Focus yet wisely explore your independence. Try new things and don't limit yourself. Above all, keep your faith it will take you far!

I always thought I would go to school and major in Political Science at the University of New Hampshire, which is where my father graduated and is fairly close to my hometown. I took classes in high school that were CP, but I'm not sure that I applied myself as well as I could, even though I often made honors. My parents would give me a pep talk when it came to choosing classes or completing work, but I wanted to be independent and thought my application and grades would assure me guaranteed admission to UNH. When my rejection letter came in the mail, I was disapointed and realised my parents were only trying to help me acheive my goal. I attended my freshman year at Plymouth State University, earning a spot on the highly coveted President's List, my entire freshman year was spent trying to prove to myself that I could work hard and make it into UNH. Recently I received an acceptance letter to attend there as a transfer student this fall. Looking back, I wish I had spent more time concentrating on the advice my parents gave me.

Justin, you delightful heart for education will overtake you as you age. Stay strong and make sure to always develop, maintain, and strengthen the relationships you will build along the way. They will prove a wonderful resource of blessing, not only for what they may offer you, moreso for what you offer them. As much as you will labor in knowledge, Justin, spend yourself in equal effort to labor in loving people with it. Offer them your all: all aid . . . all encouragement . . . all physical, and emotional support . . . all the provision you can muster. I promise you, Justin, this will not dissappoint. The investment made into others will reap an hundred-fold return as you mature. Take life's dialy examples: though a baker know his craft well and creates delectible treats, is he praised for his work with no customer? Though a teacher fathom all depths of knowledge, and master all proof and explanation, is he reckoned well with no student? Seek knowledge, Justin, yes, but not unto self--unto service. Mark my words: it will not dissappoint; Justin, my solemn promise to you is this: service will fill your life with years and your years with life.

The advice I would give myself would be to really think about what you want to do it life. When I first came to plymouth state I thought that I knew exactly what I wanted to do for the rest of my life, but in reality I really didn't. I ended up changing my major last spring semester to biology from criminal justice. I never realized that criminal justice would be so boring and nothing like I thought it would be. I have changed my overall perspective on life and I really would like to help others by working in a hospital laboratory trying to find cures for diseases. I have learned so much from doing research on diseases that it inspired me along with my grandfather inspiring me to work in a hospital lab because he did it for his entire life. I could have really used the advice to slowly make a decision and not make a hasty one. I am currently a sophomore and I am just now starting to declare minors and think about interships and all the real world stuff that we have to do. Think quick and work slow.

Seniors in high-school think they’ve got it all figured out. I was one of them. I sent in my Common Application to the only school I wanted and focused on enjoying my last year with my friends. I don’t regret spending the time I did with the people I’ve know forever, but I wish I had put more emphasis on preparing myself for the college lifestyle and the financial strains it would cause. I heard about scholarships all through high-school. I knew they would be a smart and free addition to my college fund, but I procrastinated on doing them until it was too late. So there I was, a senior on awards night watching all of my friends winning hundreds of dollars in scholarship money and I was stuck with my sales associate pay check. So my advice is this, completely simple and straight to the point: TAKE THE FREE MONEY! Fill out the scholarship forms, write the short essays. You may not receive them all, but the smallest amount goes a long way with books, classes and meal plans. Be the senior getting up and receiving all those scholarships, you know you can.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a senior I would give a few words of advice. First, I would tell myself to try a little harder in my classes and attempt to learn all the material taught to me, rather than just try to get a good grade in the class. I would also try to convince myself to get better grades, so I would’ve had a better opportunity to be awarded scholarships from the University. My last piece of advice I would give my senior self is to take advantage of the free education I was receiving. After getting to college I've realized how much education costs and how much better off I would’ve been if I learned more in high school.

Entering into college was not like anything that I had dreamed about as I made the long walk up on stage to recieve my high school diploma months before move in day. I remember thinking that college was going to be like summer camp; a long, exciting vacation filled with "get to know you games" and smores by the fire. In fact, that's basically what the orientation at college was like. So, to my surprise, when I spent my first week at school I didn't like it and couldn't imagine having to live at college for the remaining four years of my life. If I was able to return to my highschool self, standing there on that podium, experiencing the last moments of my highschool world, I would tell myself to remember that change takes time. I feel like this lesson is one of the most important things that I will take from college. Change is something that will happen all throughout my life and it is not a walk in the park. But what is life without challenge? It is important cherish memories in the past, yet dreams are achieved through change and hard work.

I would have advised myself to be more open to people and making friends. People were very friendly and I feel like at first I held myself back. I'd also tell myself to get involved in extra curricular activities, even if it's just things like intermural sports. I think college is all about having fun while balancing your school work at the same time. If you're too focused on your work and leave yourself no time for your social life then I feel like you may hit a rough patch. I would tell myself to be careful who you trust and don't put all of your eggs into one basket because you never know what's going to happen. You find out very quickly who your real friends are.

The advice that I would give myself if I could go back in time is take every oppourtunity that comes your way. Don't be afraid to try new things that you may have never tried before. College is an experience that you will never be able to get again. I know back in high school that I was stuck in my comfort zone at all times. I had the same group of friends, we did the same thing every weekend etc. Since I have been to college I've noticed you learn the most when you jump out of your comfort zone and try these new things. May that be a class you wouldn't take usually, a club that interests you, or a group of friends you never thought you would befriend. Be open to these new opportunities because you never know what might happen.

The advice that i would give to myself as a high school senior would be to make sure you get your school work done before anything else. I would also tell myself that it is ok to be different and to that it is ok if at first you find it hard to meet people. I would also make sure to tell myself that school comes before anything else and if you want to have fun do it after your school work is finished. Another piece of advice that I would give myself would be to start projects and papers before the night before they are due. Doing this will help you be able to have a scoial life and not feel overwhelmed.

I would encourage my high school self to get a part time job quicker and to penny-pinch. Pizza is not a once a week necessity, and the cost adds up. I would warn myself that money will be tough and scary, especially when my school screws up financial aid-- but just to stay strong, work hard and just get through it. I have already gained so much knowledge in my field of study, and I will get my degree, which no one can take away from me regardless of my financial troubles. I would also encourage my younger self to socialize more-- working hard is important, but it is important to get out and have fun once in a while, while I still can. Also, I'd tell myself to apply for more scholarships and sooner-- not as easy to get as my guidance counselors said!

I think I was well prepared for college, but I would tell myself to study harder.

Always strive hard for sucess and never give up to fufill your dreams. By giving up you are only cheating yourself and setting yourself back. Don't let others make you stop believing in yourself because if you endeavor you can do so much more than you ever thought possible.

With attending college, I have learned a lot about myself. As a high school senior, I cared about my grades--the numerical value I earned in a course. With completing a year of college so far, I learned that it's not all about the grade but what you take away from a course and how you apply what you learned to the real world. I would tell my high school senior past-self that I should have focused on what I was learning and let the grade later reflect what I have learned. Also, I would have told myself to work more at my job. As a high school senior, I didn't work a lot and didn't save much money to pay my tuition. I do pay my own tuition bills and it has been a lot of effort to work 35-39 hours a week during the summer and 25-30 hours a week while in school to save cash to pay bills. I should have better managed my time. But, I have learned a lot and I have changed how I go about life. I am now very satisfied.

I would have told myself to stay on the ball and not slack off with scholarships. And to get a better job so I could afford to live better. I would have also said to not be afraid to speak up in a class, or go out of my way to do something.

Dear future me, Don't be afraid; jump into the college life with open arms and an open mind! It's a chance to meet new people and change the way you think and feel. Don't worry about what other people think of you, either; they're just jealous of your abilities. They will try to bring you down in any way possible, but don't let them get to you; you are so much stronger then they are. You'll struggle getting through the first year, especially during your first semester abroad in Ireland, but you won't regret it for one moment. You'll make a few new friends here and there, and you'll lose some, too, but others will come back around and into your life in mysterious ways. Your study abroad coordinators will be of much service to you; treat them as you would treat your former high school social worker. They are kind human beings with hearts and lots of love to share. Sincerely, Your future self (P.S. You'll get bullied both semesters; don't let those people get to you. Be strong and hold your head up high and proud)!

Don't give up. It's stressful, but it's worth it.

The college experience has been wonderful for me because I have been able to see and be involved in a different lifestyle . I am a diabetic and was nervous about being away from home and having to deal with the disease on my own, but being in college has forced me to grow up and take responsibility for myself healthwise and personally. I am the first in my very large family to attend college and am very proud of the accomplishments that I have been able to achieve at this point both educational and athletically.

I have gotten many things out of my college experience. One major thing that I have gotten from my college experience is meeting the diversity of new people that Plymouth State University has to offer. Being on the Women's Soccer Team at Plymouth I have met many new foriegn exchange students. Many play on the Men's Soccer Team. I have met people from all over the world and have learned about their language and culture. One player is currently trying to teach me to talk in Swedish. I also got to take an interview with one of the students from India. He could barely speak English but I helped him and just to see him smile because he comprehended what he was even asking me from the survery he was giving made him feel like he had achieved something and learned something new!

I've learned how the criminal justice system works and how law has evolved over the centuries. I've also learned how to effectively market products and conduct market research. I've even learned how to create a life-long financial plan. But these lessons seem trivial when compared to the one lesson only college can teach people about: the self. Middle school and high school are comfort zones for students; they grow familiar with the groups they have fit in to and are given a false sense of self. Once in college, students are forced to start over. Identity is proven to be a very liquid thing. I have been attending Plymouth State University since 2009 and am now a sophmore, and in that time i have made changes to my "identity" at least a dozen times. I am not happy with this fact, but it has taught me a lesson:I need to be honest with myself; don't be something that I'm not. Success comes out of finding happiness, and happiness out of self actualization. The day comes where everyone realizes what they want, and becomes happy. College is teaching me how to reach this day.

I have been able to explore a lot of new areas that I never thought I would be interested in. I have learned to be independent and not need much my family as much as I once used to. I have learned to take care of myself and be on my own which I consider a vital trait for a successful person to have.

College is a unique experience that is different for everyone. For me it was a fun and creative learning experience. I learned not only things for my major but things that have to do with socialization and the importance of small things. My best friends are now my roomate and other people I made while at my first year at Plymouth State University. In highschool I was not the most driven or acedemic student, now in college I have made the presidents or deans list every semester and thouroughly enjoy it. I find myself wanting to be prepared for class and even enjoy being in class. I realize how each and every class I am taking will help me in my future. I have already clocked in over twenty hours of observation time in elementary schools and aced my first practicum. I have finally found what I love and want to do with my life.

I have gotten so many different things out of my college experience. From the intellect side of things I have learned so much in such a short time . I am learning more and more about my intended major of business administration and also about the differences in people in general. Other things I have learned from my college experience is never forget to appreciate that your mom did your laundry and cleaned up after you, while here at school I have learned how to be independence. It is a valuable lesson but with that independence comes responsiblilty. I have learned not only how to take care of myself, but that I need to have responsibility for myself and my actions. College life for me has been a very positive experience and a journey that I am grateful for being able to take.

Looking back on my senior year, I really could have put more effort into applying to more scholarships. I was a bit lazy in that department, and now being in college, it would have been helpful. When going to high school all you worry about is moving out of the house and attending your dream college. That was my first impression and looking back, I would have loved to spend more time with the friends I had grown up with and the people who helped me be the person I am today. Saying goodbye to all of the familiar faces that I had seen every day was the hardest thing, and letting go wasn't easy. But, people need to learn how to be on their own. Parents aren't always going to be there for you in the long run. So, as early as you can, try to let go and be more independent. In college, the only person you can rely on is yourself.

If I could go back to the time I was in high school I would tell myself to start making some changes. I would have said to myself start saving your money, and start now. But back then I was more hard headed than I am now. My future self would have told my past self, you have no idea how hard it would be to make the transition into college. I would have told myself to make sure you choose the right career field to get into. Choosing the wrong career could mean unhappiness and struggles for years to come. I also would have said to try and get as many scholarships as you can. College is not cheap, but with the right attitude can be a sound investment in your future. I would also tell myself that college education is the best route in life. That Pro-athletics, entertainment, and entrepenurism isn't nessicarily going to gurantee you success in the future. New experiences, new people, and a new beginning to me is going to be more exciting and more fulfilng to me.

As far as the transition goes, moving and living with roomates is not all that difficult. The hardest part of the transition is not being as connected with high school friends. If your friends don't talk to you much anymore it's not because they don't care about you, it's because they are starting new lives and get caugh up in them. So please don't get upset. You will get caught up to, sooner than you think. The hardest part of the freshman year is making friends. Don't be discouraged if you don't make friends right away. Some people don't make good friends until sophmore year. The people you hang out with freshman year, might not be the people you hang out with next year or the year after. Don't be shy, be pro-active and talk to everyone. You never know who you will meet. In college, you must get over your fear of failure. If you see an oppertunity for a job or a special class , jump on it. Don't let them slip by because you are scared or nervous.

Dear Carlene, This may sound crazy, but I'm you, writing to me as a senior in high school after surviving my first semester of college. Because I have this amazing opportunity to write back in time, I have some advice for you. The most important thing I can tell you to do is to take care of yourself. If you are hungry, eat something. If you are thirsty, drink something. If you are tired, take a much needed break and sleep, even if only just for an hour. The more you take care of yourself, the better you will feel long term, and the more schoolwork you can do in the long run. There is a lot of pressure to keep up academically in college, but if you let your health and sanity slip, you will fall behind in classes and start to feel overwhelemed quickly. Avoid getting in the habit of late nights and little nourishment. Take time for yourself. I wish you the best of luck with the end of your senior year and the beginning of your freshman year. I have faith in you, after all, I already lived it. Good luck! Carlene

The first thing I would tell myself is to apply to any and every scholarship I could find. In high school, I didn't realize the true cost of a college education. Also, I would tell myself to become more involved in school and community activities so that the application process for colleges and scholarships would be easier. The third and final piece of advice I would give myself would be to try become more outgoing. Keeping friends from high school has been hard, as well as finding new friends in college.

I would tell myself my goals will change a million times but I must not be discouraged. I would also tell myself not to take anyone else's unwanted impute or put downs about choices in a major. collage is hard work, but a fun experiance, if you let it be. You will get your best grades relaxed and determined, not stressed out and obbseing.

If you ever have any questions, call the college or university that you are applying to. It is their job to help you, because they want you to attend! I would also make sure that you bring everything yourself. Don't share with your room mate if you don't have to, because you don't know what it's like to live with someone until you actually do it. If you live on campus, join as many groups as you can, because you can always opt out of them later if you find that you don't like them!

The best advice I could give myself is to begin to rely on yourself. From the time that you wake up in the morning, by setting your own alarm, deciding who to be friends with, what to eat, how much effort you put into studyies and when to go to bed are your own choices. In high school start to think about taking care of yourself and being responsible for the decisions that you make. The sooner you think about the consequences of your own actions - the more prepared you will be for college life.

If I could go back in time and give myself advice to prepare for the college experience, the biggest thing I'd stress would be to focus on myself and not worry about others. Before coming to college, I worried about fitting in and making friends more than I worried about the school work itself. I now realize that some people choose to party and go out every night rather than to do their homework and go to class. I soon realized that college is nothing like high school. You are there to make a future for yourself, not get caught up in things other people are doing. So whether you have a million friends or none, focus on the real reason you are going to college, which is to make a better life for yourself and not to jeopardize it with bad choices.

When I look back on being in High School, I remember the college decision process was stressful and scary. I would tell myself to not worry so much, because in the end you make the college experience you want to have. I would tell myself to have more confidence because college is do-able and there are so many people there helping to achieve my goals. I will assure myself that Plymouth is a good choice and going in it with a smile is all you really need. I would also remind myself that all the problems that could of happened at that time and the past wont really matter a few monthes later, and that there is alot a good to look foward to. Last, I would tell myself that I will be meeting some of the most amazing people in the world .

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior , knowing what I know now about college life and the transition, I would tell myself to not hold back. Being a college freshman can be scary and intimidating at first, but put your best foot forward. It's natural to feel shy, but do not let that hold you back from meeting new people. Just think about it this way, everyone else is in the same position you are just wanting to make a smooth transition and meet some friends. So muster up some courage and talk to that other freshman in your class, you won't regret it. These friends you make now could be life long friends you carry with you forever.

If I could go back to my senior year in high school I would tell myself not to worry. I was so nervous about going away to college; I thought I would have a terrible time. I convinced myself that nobody would want to be my friend; I was wrong. I have so many friends because I got involved. That is another thing I would tell myself; is to get involved in as many organizations as possible. The last thing I would tell myself would be to apply for as many scholarships as I can. I am now looking at studying abroad and need as much financial aid as I can get. Going back and telling myself to apply for all the scholarships that I could, would have helped me so much more now in the present. I would have more knowledge about finding scholarships. Those would be the most important things to tell any senior in high school not just myself; don?t worry you?ll have a great experience, get involved in as much as you can, and apply to anything and everything you can so that you don't end up in a huge debt.

If I could travel back in time to my senior year in high school, I would give myself several pieces of advice. First I would tell myself to continue my hard work as I will be rewarded for it in college. I would tell myself that my hard work will set my foundation for sucess in college by providing me with good study habits and time management skills. I would also tell myself to start increase my self-advocacy skills with my teachers. This skill will prove to be beneficial as in college you are on your own to sort things out with your professors. I would tell myself that Increasing this skill will help make the transition to college easier. Lastly, I would tell myself to get in the habit of doing my own laundry. You wouldn't know it, but doing laundry is a hassle and takes up a good deal of time. All of this advice would have made my transition to college much simpler and smoother.

It's been 14 years since I was a high school senior and I've learned a lot in that time. If I could go back I would tell myself 2 things: 1. Get help when you need it and 2. You don't have to be perfect all the time. I grew up with an abusive father and a bipolar mom. After my mom left my father she gave up on parenting and I took over the daily actiivities of making sure we got to school and there was food to eat. Everything was so chaotic I always tried to make myself and my world perfect to compensate. I went to college at 18 I was spent, became depressed and could not handle daily life of being a successful student. When a teacher or counselor tried to talk to me (my college grades were no where near my high school ones) I always told them I was fine and had an excuse. I failed out of college in 1998. I went back in 2008 and will be graduating in 2011. I wish I could have graduated before I got married and had 2 children.

Megan, as you make the transition to college I suggest you go in it with a positive attitude about learning and be less worried about the "partying". When you go to college and assume that a majority of your time will be spent doing nonproductive activities then you are more likely to fall behind and become stressed out with the work load. Prepare yourself mentally for what is to come, and make sure not to slack your senior year. By slacking you will be out of practice for everything that will come within the next year. I also suggest you get the FAFSA done early. The earlier you get it done, the more likely you are to recieve the financial aid you may need. College is expensive and most students need some type of financial aid. Finally, when you are deciding what financial aid to take, research what you are getting yourself into. Some loans are better than others, and you do not want to get mixed up in a loan where you will be incapable to pay either during or after school. Good luck, and be sure to enjoy your time at school, its your time to grow.

As a senior, I allowed so many adults and peers to persuade my decisions on which school /major to choose. I was blinded by "fitting in" with my peers, blinded by my parents pushing me that strict academics were of utmost importance. I have always been the creatie type, taking years of dance, art, acting, photography, writing...you name it. These things were pushed aside for me, as they often are when young people are taught that a "stable" career is the only career they should pursue, even though I excelled at them. I have 5+ years of college completed and no degree to show for it. I take responsibility for this, but have spent years being angry that my decisions were not truly my own. At 27, I am hopeful for a fresh start, and in something I love and am passionate about. Passion proves time and time again to be a poweful motivator in accomplishment and success in this world. I would tell myself to NOT listen to the loud voices, but only to my own. I would say to genuinely, do what makes you happy. Find what you love and pursue it with all of your energy!