Purdue University-Main Campus Top Questions

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

Nina

As a high school senior from a small town I was very naïve to the amount of diversity and competition that college withholds. I graduated third in my class and with the same students I went to kindergarten with. Coming to Purdue was a culture shock in a positive way as well as a realization that a small town was extremely small compared to Purdue. My advice for my senior year would be broken up in to two parts. First, try new things. Just because something is different to you does not mean it’s wrong. Understanding different communities makes you grow as an individual and better understand the world around you. My second part of advice would be to not give up. Going from high school to college it was hard for me to accept the fact that I may not be the smartest person in my class or in my school, but that is okay. If I didn’t get an A on a test, that does not mean I am not smart or that I am not capable of becoming an engineer. These two pieces of knowledge would have immensely helped me this past year.

Abigail

If I could go back in time and talk to my high school self I would tell her that it will all be okay. She will go through a lot of ups and downs but those low places are the ones that will make her stronger and wiser. She will make mistakes, but remind her that everything happens for reason and always for the best even though she can't see it now. She will find out who her real friends are and those who aren't, but to love them regardless because that's the person she wants to be. I would tell her I'm proud of her she doesn't give into pressure and drink before the age of 21, but still had so much fun- if not more- with her amazing new friends. I will comfort her that she still won't know what she wants to do, but she finds a good job, good people and a good life while figuring that out. But most importantly- I will warn her not to eat that off-campus chicken sophomore year that gave her one heck of a case of food poisoning!

Abigail

Go out on a Tuesday night with your roommate. Hold back your friend's hair while she pukes in the bathroom stall. Talk to the person sitting next to you in Calc lecture. Ask your professor questions, no matter how "stupid". LEARN. Learn by meeting new people, experiencing new thing, and yes, study. But don't get too bogged down in your school work. Enjoy your time in college. You can retake a class or two, it's not the end of the world. Engineering is hard, but C's get degrees. You'll make it through. Use this time to get real work experience in the industry and figure out what YOU want to do. Don't be afraid. Gain confidence and get out there and talk to people!

Ross

Some of the advice I would give myself would be to not worry about what to expect out of college. College is always overwhelming at first, but it's an easy adjustment. Do not worry about missing your home-town friends because you will make so many more at college. The best advice I could give myself is that your college experience is exactly what you make of it. If you do not try knew things and open yourslef up to new ideas, you are just reducing the possibilies of making amazing memories. Try your best to get involved on campus socially and academically. You will create great relationships and most likely learn a lot throughout the process. The last piece of advice I would tell myself would be looking into studying abroad. There are hundreds of places all around the world that offer study abroad programs. It is one of the greatest oppurtunites provided by Universities as well as an easy route to take if you are looking to go on an adventure and learn about a different culture.

Stephen

If I were to go back in time and have a conversation about college life and the transition from high school to college, emphasizing things like time management and getting involved would be on top of my agenda. From the moment a student steps on Purdue's campus, they are given a level of freedom never experienced throughout high school. Recreational facilities, social events, and limited required events allow students the chance to sculpt and mold their time as they see fit. Social life, academics, and sleep tend to be the three largest slates needing to be balanced, and the earlier this is recognized, the better. Getting involved in a student organization or social group remains another essential in college. Companies in the industry often emphasize the importance of leadership and there is no more direct way to accomplish this than through student involvement. They’re well over 200 student groups and a strong Greek presence at Purdue University, giving my high school self a bevy of options the minute I stepped foot on campus. These key points could have revolutioned not only my Senior self, but many other prospective students. Boiler up.

Heather

If I could provide some insight to myself as a high school senior, I'd have to begin by choosing a more practical approach to college. I naively believed that colleges would not offer majors that didn't lead to high paying careers. Be sure you're researching jobs that interest you and then define the majors that will lead you to success in your chosen field. At one point, my parents insisted that I study something that would support my independence; I chose nursing. After a one year certificate program, I was earning quite a bit more than my peers enrolled in nursing programs. This was a major advantage as I could make my own hours each semester and maximize my study time, which in turn, led to the successful completion of several courses towards my BSN during the associates program. Choose to join professional associations when you formalize your major. Memberships are often discounted for students. You'll have opportunities that classmates are often unaware of including seminars, continuing education credits, job postings and other resources. If you take advantage of these opportunities, you'll be bulking up your resume and will stand out among peers after graduation.

Charles

The advise i would give is if you can take some college course while in high school, because it really helps. Do not be afraid to take some challenging course because when you get to college it will help. Another thing is choose a school because you love the campus and what that university has to offer. It will be hard going to school just because a friend is going, or because of a sport. Lastly i would say have a passion for what you want to major in. It will be very difficult to learn if you dont have a passion for it. The passion will drive you to want to learn more, and will make learning more fun. This informantion is all from experience and i am living with this everyday.

Michael

I have no regrets about my decision to attend Purdue University. None at all. But I was absolutely sure that I wanted to go Big Ten. If I had the chance to go back and do it all over again, I would spend more time looking at smaller universities and seeing what they have to offer. I currently live near the DePaul campus and I'm in love with the area yet I never even considered a college in a city. I probably still would have chosen Purdue anyway but I think I cheated myself by not looking at other schools. In terms of making the transition, I would NOT choose a school that has 100 people going there that I already know. College gives you a chance to reinvent yourself without anybody knowing anything about you. Also, the less people you know at first, the better. It might help to maybe have a friend or two but you might use them as a crutch and not venture out and meet more people. Being on your own forces you to step out of your comfort zone and do things you wouldn't normally do and that is how you grow.

Courtney

If I could go back in time and talk to my high school self, I would tell myself. When you go to college take the leap of faith just put yourself out there and do not doubt yourself. Purdue is a hard school you have heard that time after time but really listen to everyone. Push yourself to succeed! You want to go to medical school? You want to go into pharmacy? You better push yourself and show everyone around you that you are going to make a difference and you are going to help people. Put more faith in yourself and stay confident. Finally, step out of your comfort zone, say hi to every person you walk by or at least smile. Take that extra step out of your way to pick up that piece of trash on the sidewalk. You are going to feel less stressed at relieved if you just take it day by day and smile. Classes will be tough but you are going to make amazing friends there to support you and your family is always standing beside you.

Mallory

If I could go back in time, I would tell myslef to consider every opportunity presented to become familiar with student life, plus most club callouts have pizza. Everyone is in the same boat as you and and the more you take advantage of the opportunities presented the more your college will provide you in return. Make sure to keep track of all your money. This is a great time to learn to manage money. You are independent enough to make financial decisions but dependent enough to seek parental guidance. Getting to know a professor isn't being a teacher's pet, it is in your best interest. When professors know you care they are willing to help. they will assist you in learning and can connect you to the business world. After graduation, they can be excellent references for furthering your career. Most importantly, be your own person. This is the best time to find out who you are. Take advantage of exploratory studies in order to find your strenghts and interests.

George

I would be prepared to try new things. I would also be prepared to do worse in class than what you did in high school. Classes are challanging and sometimes professors can be difficult to talk to. This should not be too discouraging because it just takes some initiative on your part if you want to change you are doing in a class.

Shanna

If I could go back in time and talk to my high school self, I would tell my self three things to get thru my college journey a little easier. First, love yourself more; do not get so caught up in trying to find love in college that you lose focus on what you are at college for. Second; work hard play less. It's okay to have fun in college, but it's not okay to have so much fun that you forget to study or miss classes. Do everything in moderation, and you will still have fun, but you will obtain the GPA you desire. Last but not least, pick a major and stick to it. 9/10 what ever major you chose, you may not be doing that exact job when you graduate anyway, you may finish college sooner if you stick with your original major.

Rebekah

I would have told myself to two things, both related to my personality. One, stop being shy and meet new people! It is so much more fun and amazing when you make a new friend rather than wonder what would have happened. In college, I have never regretted reaching out to someone I don't know (even when I am feeling shy) and getting to know them. Also, because I spent highschool working on homework most of the time and not having a social life, I would recommend getting involved in sport, clubs, and a good group of friends. Study hard and achieve those good grades, but make sure to take time to hang out with friends, meet new people, and do the things you love. College, especially one as big as Purdue, offers so many things you may never have the chance to learn or get involved with somewhere else, so take advantage of them while you are here! Last of all, enjoy yourself. Who wants to look back at their college years and say, "wow, I wish I hadn't worried and stressed so much and instead gotten out and tried something new."

Megan

I would advise myself to spend a little more time with friends and a little less time on worrying about working to make money for college. I worked the whole summer but hardly saw my friends. I would have told myself to balance the two a little more evenly because that summer was my last summer as a "kid". Now I really have to work all the time. I also would have told myself not to worry about making friends. Colleges are huge, especially Purdue, and anyone will find friends. With so many people it's hard not to. All you have to do is be yourself and other people will naturally have common interests with you.

Zoya

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to worry less about transitioning to college and more about developing my inner self. Yes, the college transition is a big one but it doesn't have to be overwelming if you come in with the right attitude and organization. In college, there are lots of little pockets of time in between classes, which are perfect for getting homework and studying done. Time management is a must have in college, as well as a good sense of healthy living habits. Go out of your comfort zone! Take chances and go after something that you always wanted to try but never got a chance to. College is a time for exploration and new opportunities, and it's a vibrant campus that has any kind of club or organization possible so get involved in stuff you are passionate about or are curious about. Always keep an open mind, but hold steadfast to and stand by your beliefs and moral code. Always keep a friendly smile on and you'll never know when you'll make a new friend!

Rebeccah

If I could go back, I would tell myself not to be afraid to make mistakes and stop worrying about what others think! Going to college is an exciting opportunity to discover who you truly are, and it's hard to do that when you're afraid. Try new things, fail, make new friends, and have a good time!

Seairah

Rewind a year and I am a senior in high school applying to college, stressing over essay applications, worrying about what I want to do with my life, and simply worrying most about the tremendous choices I will be making. I was accepted to every college I applied to, so my first piece of advice to myself would be not to fear the letters from colleges but to instead be excited about them and the fantastic opportunities they hold. Secondly, I would tell my youger self how amazing the resources are in college. The resources at Purdue are extensive and individualized for my needs. Purdue will help me with anything from career counseling to study abroad counseling and everything in between. Lastly, I would tell myself not to fear the huge choices I will be making, but to instead embrace them, discover more about my self and do what I am passionate about. To myself I would say do not overly stress, instead be excited and chase my dreams.

Chyla

Study, study study! In high school, the material was easy and cramming before an exam was the norm. In college, you need time management, and an understanding of how to apply the coursematerial. This takes dedication and committment to study and dedication. You will be attracted to living on your own, parties and just a new environment. Nevertheless, the work comes first. Stay grounded in your studies and the fun and resume, once the exam is over. Also, join organizations that are important to you and take on leadership roles to gain leadership experience and to network with other students.

Claire

If I could go back to myself in high school I would tell myself to do more career preparation. I would encourage myself to shadow more and get my EMT or CNA so that I could have good summer jobs during college that would give me experience for medical school. During college it seems that all of those things take up too much time or are too expensive so it would have been nice to prepare a little more beforehand.

Chelsea

If I were able to travel back in time I would tell myself to take the time and make sure that you thoroughly fill out college applications and get started on scholarship applications as soon as possible. Scholarships are very useful and almost a necessity nowadays when it comes to college.; for if you go into college and take out a bunch of loans you will get into debt. Living in debt is not a healthy and/or easy way to live. You need to get a early start and concentrate on your studies along with starting to save up some money for your college fund. College is going to be one of the most important things within your life and you must thrive to achieve the greatest possible outcome.

Brandon

If I had the opportunity to go back in time and talk to my high school self I would insist for him to be bold and believe in himself more. Since neither of my parents went to college it was extremely difficult to receive guidance on what major to or college to pursue. I had absolutely no clue what I was supposed to do after graduating high school. Luckily one of my best friends ended up going to Purdue so I followed suit. I was extremely timid and scared about putting myself out there when dealing with this situation. I cannot emphasize how important it is to ask questions before you’re a senior in high school. It is crucial for parents and counselors to stress the importance exploring job fields and visiting colleges to set themselves up for success in the future.

Keith

I would start by telling myself to keep fighting and working hard through all the tough times, but to also enjoy the experience. Don't just get caught up in the academic side of college life but to enjoy more of the external opportunities such as: more sporting events, more intramural teams, and the campus wide events. There are so many great memories ahead of you and dont change your morals. Stay grounded in the way you were brought up, and that along with you work ethic you will grow into not only a good student, friend, familiy member, but you will come out as a educated, successful MAN. Keep you faith and shoot for the stars. Dont let little failures impede you journey to great things. There will be trying times but use your ever strong resources and support to get through them. Tough times dont last, tough people do. So, be the best you can be and make the best of your time at Purdue University. Purdue will give you so many great things, and you will not regret your decision to follow this path to do big things. God Bless along the way

Julianne

The main advice I could give is to not allow yourself to become overwhelemed with classwork and to make sure you make time to be with friends. Classwork is very important but there is no need to put further stress on yourself than what already exists. Friends allow an escape from the classroom and a support group when things do get tough. When starting college everyone has a different approach to getting adjusted. Mine was to find a good group of friends and to always be open to new opportunities.

Kelly

"College is not easy. It takes a lot of hard work, but in the end, it will be worth it." If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, that is what I would begin with saying. Depending on the size of each school, the majority of college students reveal that they had difficulity with the transition from high school to college. College is all about independence. Students do not have nearly as much access to one-on-one help from tutors or teachers. First year college students and beyond must learn how to develop good study skills on their own. After telling myself the importance of academics, I proceed to assure myself that another important aspect of college is a social life. Getting involved was one of the best decisions I have made at Purdue. By doing so, I have made many new friends as well as developed excellent leadership skills. I would leave off by telling my high school senior self that things will be difficult, but as long as I set goals for myself, I will end up successful.

Marissa

I would say, be more prepared. Work hard and know what you want to do before you go to college. Be more wise with your money and do things for you, not others. Work hard, play later. It will pay off in the end.

Kaitlyn

There are a few things I would tell myself. First off make sure to go out and seize all of the opportunities that are given to you. You never know what you will learn or who you will meet so you need to make sure that you put yourself out there and get involved. Also know that while things may seem challenging now, in retrospect it is all work the hard work and long nights. There may be times when you want to quit and give up because it does not seem worth it or that you won't make it through. These challenges are what will shape you into who you will be in the future and are an important part of your accomplishments because without them, you wouldn't appreciate all of your successes. Finally, in the midst of all your work, remember to take joy in the small things and remember that it's alright to take a break once in a while. If you push too long without stopping, you'll burn out. Make sure to maintain the right balance in your life so you still enjoy it while working toward your goals.

Amandeep

Be prepared from the begining. Your easiest classes are the first year so do VERY well. Don't concentrate on getting involved only socially, but actually concentrate on getting involved professionally and on campus, this will help you ind the right social groups. Rushing is better if you do it sophmore year, it allows you to develop professionally, concentrate on classes, gives you time to figure out time management, know what your looking for before you dive in.

Stanford

Take it at a moderate pase. Not to fast or slow. Rushing into to many activities and groups for however rewarding they are, they can be a sink for time. Purdue is a school where one who wants to succeed can obtain their goals. Focus on staying organized. As one of my favorite chefs, Alton Brown, would say, "Organization will set you free." Time management in conjunction with organization is very important in college. Whether it be group projects, extra curriculars, or any other choice made. Those are skills that need to be sharpened and integrated into every day life. Another key attribute to key doing is never giving up. At Purdue your goals are obtainable however you need to work for them like everything else life has thrown at you till this point. And lastly be yourself. Happy, upbeat and optimistic. Never let anything keep down, like water on a roof. You are an adventurous person both in knowledge and life. That quality about you will not only get you through college but much more. The path least travelled is your own. My parting word to you, myself for you to find is find the meanings of Ohana.

phaedra

I would tell her that she was over thinking high schooll and that just applying herself a little would make a big difference in how she feels towards school. Telling her that college is not really that hard that she just needs to decide on what she wants to do and there are schools that are flexible for single moms. I would also tell her that no matter how rough life gets for us it always passes and gets better. And that all 4 of her kids grow up to be very smart and turn out very well despite the rough times we all go through. And her children are always right there with her even when she thinks that they have given up on her that they respect her for everything she done for them.

Gregory

If I could travel back in time and have a conversation with my high school self, I'd be sure to emphasize a few important points. First and foremost, I'd tell the younger me to think LONG and HARD about the long term cost of attending that expensive out-of-state university you've always imagined yourself at (and whether the cost is warranted or not). The proposition of being a slave to your student loans doesn't seem to hit most kids at this point in ther lives. Second, I'd tell myself that yes, it is in fact okay to change your major; however, don't do so just because whatever you're currently doing is too difficult. Everything worthwhile in life comes with it's fair share of difficulty; when that time comes around, you just need to suck it up and keep moving forward. Lastly, I'd tell myself to not sweat the small stuff. Focus on what you came to school for in the first place: getting a worthwhile degree! Everything else comes secondary to that one goal. Don't worry, you'll make lifetime friends and wonderful memories. That, I can promise.

Morgan

Don't take any time off. Literally. And honestly, study even more than you did. We should be graduating with High Honors instead of honors. But have some fun on the weekends. And learn about taxes. TAKE ACCOUNTING! And please, please be happy. And excited. Life after school wasn't the easiest transition but it has been fun. And save your money. Find some scholarships early on and get the ball rolling on time. Also, do your FAFSA before March 31st or it's annoying. But never

Daniel

Work hard in college and choose a discipline that will allow you to be successful in a wide variety of fields, avoid studying a very specific topic. Stay focused and be wise about when you have fun.

Joe

Keep your friends close, but don't be afraid to make some new ones. It's difficult to have two lives, but that is what you have to do -- don't be afraid to establish yourself in your college town with college friends. As long as you put in the effort, your high school relationships won't die.

Dylain

The first thing I would address to my former self is to learn how to study. Studying is an extremly crucial andI key component to college and many students lack that ability and when they do develop it, it is already to late because they have a low GPA or have possibly failed out of college. The second major adivce I would give to my self is to quite my job and fill that time with academics and community service. The lack of community service inihibits many from recieving schloarships which is crucial for college and not going into debt. The quitting the job is another issue because the money earned is not worth inhibiting me from furthering my academic success and preping me for college academics. Finally, I would tell my self to not be so introverted and , when coming in, talk to people because everyone is trying to make friends and they are all in the samw situation as you are. A major aspect of college is having a support system which is developed through friends and family. If I could go back to senior year in highschool, these are the things I would tell myself.

Holly

When I was a senior, I was very confident in myself, but going through a lot of things in my life. I had difficult courses and a difficult life out of the classroom. Was there any way to go back to that point in my life and speak to myself, I think I would just want to sit the past me down somewhere quiet, putting away the physics books and the Calculus books. I would just tell that scared about affording college and being accepted senior that in the end, it really didn't come down to being able to afford or being accepted. It was about realizing I still had some growing up to do before everything would work out. It would have been a weak set of advice, but I would have appreciated the confident smile and seeing the present me because in the end, there is nothing I could have told myself back then besides just that. Sometimes the best advice is the kind we learn ourselves.

Alex

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself, "Hey, enjoy your final year of high school, college isnt that bad all you have to do is study hard and show up for class and you'll do just fine." I would tell myself that because when I was 17 and a senior in high school I was stressing myself out thinking college work would be nerve wrecking and hard to understand or complete. I realized how prepared I actually was for college after my first semester and have been getting better grades as each quarter passes.

Colleen

Keep up a decent workload and don't slack off - you need to have the mindset of getting work done on time regardless of the workload you have. Also be expected to sacrifice your own, personal time in order to accomplish goals.

Lindsay

I would benefit immensely from being able to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior. I would have a completely different mindset than I did the first time around. I would sign up for those AP classes that I tried to avoid and I would take the AP tests that I did not want to pay and study for before. By going down this route, I will be able to come into college with more credits and won't have to take the prerequisites that I have to take now. I would be able to go ahead and take the classes that truly interest me. Speaking of money, I would be saving a TON of money this way. Also, I would have felt more prepared coming into college already being in the mindset to work hard those first couple weeks after finishing up senior year preparing for the AP exams. It sounds like a great plan, only problem is I can’t go back in time and fix my mistakes. Hopefully other seniors can learn from mine, and not take what seems like the easy way out.

Brigit

Participate in all the orientation activities prior to beginning classes. Learn and map the campus, especially big campuses. Have a personal rapport with the faculty if possible. Don't try to take too many classes the first semester. Pace yourself. Speak with your advisor about your goals and plans for your career choice. Live on campus the first year. Have fun, but also study hard. Embrace new changes and sorroundings. Sometimes changes are difficult, but realize how lucky you are to have the opportunity to become the best version of yourself, whatever that may be. Most of all, embrace life with an open mind and an open heart.

Courtney

I would advise myself to learn how to study and teach myself to become comfortable around teachers and authority figures. I do not normally ask questions during class or have the bravery to talk to teachers after class time, but in college one must overcome this and not be afraid to ask for help. Colleges provide many resources to help the learning process and most students do not partake in them. At large universities, professors are seeing a decrease in the number of students in their office due to the indirect interactions via e-mail. In order to be successful in getting to graduate school, students need letters of recommendation, which are obtained through professors. Students cannot receive these letters if their professors have never personally met the student. Therefore, students like myself need to learn early on that it is acceptable and encouraged to meet with professors and ask for help.

Hannah

If I were able to travel back in time and give my "high school self" advice, I would most definitely tell myself to ask more questions and quit being so shy. I would tell myself that because it is ok to ask questions and "no question is a stupid question." My biggest problem in high school, and still to this day, is that I think I can do it all on my own. Well, I have been proven wrong one too many times. There are people out there who, as their job, answer questions and are there to help you out. I shouldn't have ever been so shy and "macho" thinking I could do it all on my own. Luckily, we all learn from our mistakes and will, hopefully, never make them again. This is my one piece of advice I would give myself and anyone else who was in a simliar situation. You only live once; make the most of your experiences and don't be afraid to ask questions!

Jessica

If I could go back in time with the knowledge I have now, I would tell myself to pick a different major because the struggle to become a professional pilot is long, hard, and expensive. The debt that I will assume after I graduate school will be around $100,000. Being in school has taught me that sometimes you have to give up your dream job in order to make ends meet and to make it through school without worry of how you will pay off school. I would tell myself that the struggle to be away from loved ones is not worth the amount of money one has to pay in the end. With the knowledge I know now, I would tell myself that there are other jobs out in the world that I can do without accumulating thousands of dollars in debt that I don't know if I can ever repay.

Beau

I would tell myself, "Dude, your mom is going to die in a year so get it done now." This is why I'm starting college so late; as a result of both my parents being deceased. My father passed when I was 15 and my mother soon after when I was 19. I would have encouraged myself to graduate before she died so she could see me accomplish something in my life, especially before she died.

Joanna

Get involved! It's so cliche and I know you've heard it from every recruiter, student, and campus visit but it's so true. The only way you'll make those lifelong friends you hear so much about is if you just put yourself out there and go for it. You might not like certain clubs, but go to at least 3 meetings and talk to at least 2 people at each one. Also, don't be afraid to leave your high school friends behind. They've been good to you and helped you become the person you are today, but it's time to figure out what YOU want and who YOU are without them. You don't have to go to every party. You don't have to go to any parties. Find that balance between school, work, and friends. Once you do that, you're golden.

Marie

It's going to be a LOT different than anything you've ever experienced-but don't be afraid! Step out of your comfort zone to meet knew people, but DO NOT forget who you are. Follow your heart but remember your brain. Grasp and appreciate all the amazing opportunities that this place has to offer.

Apoorva

If I could go back in time and let my highschool self know what I was getting into, I would say…nothing. The reason the college experience is attractive and enlightening is because we are naïve and optimistic as we enter. I would not want to take that away from the excited 16 year old living with her parents in a country far from the USA. I was born in India, and raised in a cultural melting pot: the United Arab Emirates. It was accepted that I would go to college, but it was expected that I would study in India. I had it set in my mind however, that I would go to America. Applying to US Universities without any background or guidance meant I learnt how to read - very carefully. I learnt how to research, and then, I learnt that I had to work hard. Realizing my dream gave me the strength to succeed in college, honing my skills of voracious reading and research to give me an edge over peers. I succeeded in college for this reason: my dream motivated me, and I don’t think any amount of external advice would have done the same.

Lynsey

If I could give myself any advice, I would advise myself to seriously think about the major that I chose. As a senior, I was very naive and dead set on the major of Engineering. I wish that I would have known the work it involves, the environment that engineers work in, and more information about the different types of engineering. I also would tell myself that I need to get out in society and job shadow more. I wish that I would have gotten more experience in different types of job fields so that I could be able to make a more educated decision on a future career. I should have reflected more in what I wanted in a school that just my "dream school" because of educational rankings. In conclusion I would basically just advise myself to think deeper and more about what I want in a school (size, Greek life, private vs. public, etc.) and about the career path that I want to embark on.

Jacqueline

Don't be afraid to grab the bull by the horns! Embrace new experiences, opportunities, and friendships with a welcomed hand. Remember that you can take control of your life, do not ever allow money to make your decisions, but to use your heart foremost, and brain second. Education is the most valuable tool you can use to get wherever you want to go in life. Stay active, socialize, and work hard in order to play hard. Be thankful for everything in life, which includes freedom, nature, and great tasting number one cheap food on campus; pizza, and insomnia cookies! Do not be afraid to ask for help. Do not worry so much about what the outside of you makes, but more of what the inside can create. Main focus should always be your education, social life are the toppings. Sleep is a valuable fuel, use it! Finally, have the determination and belief in yourself to achieve all your life goals and dreams.

Robin

Don't do mediocre work. If you are investing time into the work, at least invest some effort. Don't take short cuts and don't sell yourself short. You are leaps and bounds smarter than you realize. Never be afraid to ask questions and share your thoughts. Your depth of thought is incredible and will inspire others. Don't strive to meet expectations of others. Strive to meet the expectations you have set for yourself. Be an example and always speak up for others. When the task seems daunting and an end is not in site, remember that none of it matters. Your focus is on your very next step. Even the biggest obstaces are tackled one step at a time. Share yourself and don't be shy to do it. You will dazzle them with brillance more than you will ever know. Uncertainty does not belong in your head. I know teen years are rough and high school was a popularity contest. The contrast between that and college is vast. So worry less on what you're wearing and focus more on what you'll learn. Sucess will surely follow.

Stephanie

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a High school senior there are many ways of dealing with life I would recommend. I would first begin by advising myself to take everyday a day at a time and worry about the present by doing my best everyday & allowing myself to accept and appreciate all wins, big or small. I would ask myself to set higher goals and expand my ambition while walking faithfully towards my dreams or goals. The most important piece of advice I would give myself is to be patient with what life hands me. To appreciate and embrace every path I walk because through hard work, resilience and dedication everything will flourish if it is meant to be. Lastly I would tell myself to always follow my heart, regardless of what others say and reject about me. To embrace the person I am and to walk confidently with the creativity and ideas that I present the world, because innovative ideas come from people that are willing to take risks for what they believe will make a difference for the world and humanity.