Rutgers University-New Brunswick Top Questions

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

Nicholas

I have received so many things out of my college experience. However, above of all the best possible lesson I've learned is to never think you are above anybody else. At college, you are part of a community of students and faculty that work together to create the thinkers that will produce the world of tommorrow. Therfore, teamwork is a vital lesson that can be overlooked by a multitude of college students, but not me. My college experience has bestowed in me the skills necessary to be socially outgoing and helpful to those who ask you for it. By forming study groups and study dates, getting good grades is fun and an enjoyable experince . I know this ability to be a team player will be vital to be a valuable member of te work-force in the future and it is defeintely something I wish I could have taken adavtage of more during my high-school career.

Hector

At Rutgers I have had the opportunity to discover who I really am. The resources at Rutgers, though numerous, are not necessarily ery great but they helped me see that I can do a lot with a little. What has made Rutgers truly invaluable to me are the people that I have met at my time here. People from all walks of life attend Rutgers and that makes it easy to learn people and how to help them. Rutgers also helped me to refine my focus on my future and therefore pushed my motivation to pursue a career in medicine. Largely to the credit of a limited number of Rutgers educators and staff I am now able to stand on my own two feet at life's doorstep and wait patiently and witout fear of what lies ahead of me.

Jennifer

I have learned how to be successful in my career and my everyday life. Most people look at college as time to party but to me, it meant hard work and learning as much as I possibly could to prepare myself for my future. The tenacity and leadership that I have taken from my undergraduate professors and the skills that I have learned will be invaluable to me in my life. I have also learned what it is like to be open to new ideas and values-Rutgers is such a diverse community and you can really learn a great deal by surrounding yourself with students from all different walks of life.

sherry

The most important thing to tell myself is manage your time properly. Don't get fooled by the freedom that you have and let that delay your school work. Do not procrastinate because you will pay a heavy price later. I would also tell myself to participate in more extracurriculars and get more involved with campus activity. This will allow you to network and meet new people that can probably help you out in the near future. I would definitely tell myself to work on academic areas that I am weak in so that in college I'm not struggling as much as I did. Lastly, I would tell myself to be open minded, make friends from diverse ethnic backgrounds and learn from that we have more in common than we think. College is an experience that is meant to be lived to the fullest, no matter how difficult because that's what makes it so memorable and rewarding later down the road.

Elaine

College was a good reality check for me, personally. I enjoy every moment here at Rutgers. Coming from a small enivornment, Rutgers opened eyes for a better life. I was introduced to many different activities, academic fields, sports,and so much more. I enjoy spending my time here. Be happy and enjoy the time you have in school because once you get out into the real world it is not more fun and games, but the real life you will be living for the next couple of years. College is a wonderful experience that should not be missed out on. Life is full of unexpected moments and going to college will bring you unexpected people and friendships.

Kevin

First of all, I would smack the you out of the depressing daze that you was commonly in. I would teach begin teaching you the value of education and that while yes, the highschool may not offer it, you can at least begin learning on your own instead of playing video games and staying locked up in your room. Even though it's seinor year it isn't too late. pick vast selections of books that you like and begin reading them. Develop a mindset that doesn't need the TV and focus on retension of knowledge. Take all the troubles that your family and surround society has given you and push those thoughts out of your head. The best suggestion of all: Tell your mother that you need to see a psychiatrist; because later on in your academic career you'll be informed that you are bi-polar. Suddenly you will come to understand why your moods woulf shift in abraisive or melancholly ways. It is never too later to get up on that horse and ride proudly. The only issue I have with waking you up now, is that you may never complete the goals I already have.

Daniel

What wouldn't I tell my high school senior self given a chance to go back in time and warn myself from the twists and turns and headaches that would accompany transition into college life? For one thing, I would tell myself to be absolutely certain as to the career path that I would incline myself toward. One of the biggest problems I faced was finding myself more and more distraught at the career I would be pursuing. I thought mathematics and science were my passion, but it seems that was only so academically; and as a career, I would have become an utter, miserable wretch, had I continued. I had to transfer and with it brought an infinite mountain of woes and problems ranging from financial aid to transportation. I would definitely tell myself not to slack off on the deadlines for any financial aid documents, to be constantly checking up on statuses, and to be persistent in the acquiring of information. I would tell myself to attend seminars that would better allocate myself in a career path, and finally, I would tell myself to take it easy--for a mountain of problems, I have a lifetime to overcome.

Nick

My advice to myself as a high school senior would be a suggestion to stay in shape. In high school I was a competent wrestler and spent four years on varsity. At the end of my senior year, I hurt my knee and after surgery I gave up wrestling because of my new disability. I feel that this was only a minor obstacle. I believe that I had the determination to further my wrestling career at Rutgers University, but I was hesitant to engage in such a demanding sport. Mainly, I wanted to avoid the risk of letting my grades slip while the committment to the team increased. My advice to myself would be to persevere and stay with wrestling, even if it was not part of the varsity team, but in intramural or club.

Nehiel

No matter the location where you go to school, college is what you make of it. Don't let anyone take away your dreams. There will be people that can or will strongly suggest you to drop your dream of playing music. Reguardless of what these influential people tell you about sacrifising your dream of playing, you must ignore them. Other challenges will rise reguarding your health: don't be afraid the Lord is with you. You will be diagnosed with a form of cancer during your first semester. It will be a bumpy rollercoaster but it will teach you that life is truly a beautiful gift not to be wasted with small stresses and your addiction to certain images on the internet. Life is an adventure. Every day is filled with a new unknown, waiting to be discovered. The warmth of the sun, the song of the bird, and the majesty of the never ending azure sky have been shaped and created by the hands that calm the storms, embrace the misunderstood, and advise the misguided. Life is seeking the challenge of the new.

Rebecca

Going to community college first is a wise choice. I was unsure about what I wanted in life, and needed to boost my own confidence in my academic abilities. Community college is the perfect place to move forward with your education while saving you thousands of dollars, as well as giving you an opportunity to grow and mature without being thrown into a totally different environment. It will allow you to become a more confident and responsible person, able to resist the unhealthy temptations often presented by peers not grounded by a home situation. Also, a part time job will keep you on track and help you set time aside for schoolwork, as well as earning you some invaluable cushion money in case you don't get financial aid for books. However, I would not choose a specialized major, but a liberal arts major to ease the transfer into a four-year university. While comparing possible four-year schools, be sure to write down the pros and cons of each, especially regarding important information like housing, tuition, fees, and meal plans. Above all, don't be afraid to pursue your ambitions- it'll be worth it!

Ben

I would tell myself that a career necessities, not commodities, would be much more wise. Don't be so apt to take the first job opportunity that comes along. Study demographics that can lead you into the future 10 years not the future 2 years. Ask more questions, listen to your guidance counsellor, take harder courses after all they are free now.

Fahim

After this sentence, I will be directly talking to myself. Fahim, college is nothing like high school. You were able to get away with not doing your homework and still do well in tests but it will not be like that in college. You did not build good study habbits in highschool but you REALLY need to study every day once you get to college. There will be many times when you won't understand certain topics discussed in class and even after reviewing it by yourself you still won't be able to understand it. In those times you MUST go to you're professor's office hours or get help from someone who knows the material. The MOST important thing to succeed academically in college is to never get lazy. A sloth will fail not just academically but also socially. On the social note, start interacting with people from day one of college. If you don't then it'll be harder to meet people later on when they all know each other and you're feeling liek the outsider. The best time to meet people and overcome your shyness is on that first day.

Adam

Be prepared to have to be even more extroverted than you are now. You will be interacting with hundreds, if not thousands of other students each day and it is important to make friends with them. Adam, you know you are a dedicated student who wants to perfect his craft of music, but the social aspect of college is just as important. As soon as you walk through the doors of your dorm and your first class, make sure you interact and get to know anyone you possibly can.

Ike

The one main advice that I would give myself is to simply learn how to manage my time at Rutgers in regards to school work and other activities. I would advise myself to be aware of every professor's teaching method so I can know what to do in order to learn the different materials. Overall, I would advise myself to BE FOCUSED! Distractions can take place. Time management and discipline will help keep my GPA in a sufficient manner: between 3.0-4.0. Also, I would advise myself to HAVE FUN while being in college, meet new people, and be aware of activities and opportunities that may be benefical for my future.

Timothy

Save up more money when you've got the chance. Also waiting between highschool and college a bit, not a bad idea, BUT DON'T WAIT SIX YEARS! Consider the terms of FAFSA's Pell Grant and contingent loans. Another good idea, off-campus housing, BUTdon't start with an empty home and build it up, buy into something instead.

Amanda

If I had the chance to go to back to myself as a high school senior, I would have told myself to not worry so much about college. As a senior I was complete stress mess. I fretted over applications to universities, grades, and anything that I could worry about. I wish I could tell myself as a senior to relax and take a moment to enjoy the last year of high school because nothing will ever be as simple as it was to me while I was in college. University life is challenging but incredibly rewarding and I had to learn the hard way to simply enjoy life. I still do worry about my GPA and midterms, but I know I can't let that bother me the way it used to in high school. If I spent my freshman year worrying the way I was accustomed to in high school, I would have never enjoyed the beautiful region of the U.S. that my college is in. I would've never noticed any of the environmental beauty, urban decadence, and fascinating people that live in New Jersey had I spent my time in my room worrying constantly.

tonisha

IF I HAD THE CHANCE TO GO BACK INTO TIME, I WOULD START WITH MY FRESHMEN YEAR. I WOULD TELL MYSELF TO TAKE ADVANTAGE OF ALL THAT MY HIGH SCHOOL HAD TO OFFER BY GETTING INVOLVED IN VARIOUS PROGRAMS, APPLYING MYSELF AND TAKING ADVANTAGE OF MY STUDIES. I WOULD TELL MYSELF TO FOCUS ON THE BIGGER PICTURE AND THAT THOSE BOYS CAN WAIT AND WILL BE THERE ONCE MY DREAMS ARE FULFILLED. I WOULD HAVE MET WITH MY GUIDANCE COUNSELOR MORE OFTEN TO GET ADVICE ON VARIOUS SUBJECT MATTERS LIKE ATTENDING COLLEGE RIGHT AFTER HIGH SCHOOL AS OPPOSE TO YEARS LATER. I WOULD HAVE ALSO MADE SURE THAT I APPLIED TO A COLLEGE MY SENIOR YEAR IF NOT BEFORE ANDTAKEN THE NECESSARY STEPS TO ACHIEVE HIGH GRADES. I WOULD HAVE CONSIDERED BEING AROUND OTHER STUDENTS WITH SIMILAR DREAMS AND INTERESTS TO INCREASE MY MOTIVATION IN WANTING TO GO TO COLLEGE. I WOULD HAVE APPLIED FOR SEVERAL SCHOLARSHIPS AND STATE PROGRAMS TO HELP WITH COLLEGE EXPENSES, SO THAT MY DREAMS WERE NOT DELAYED. I WOULD HAVE TALKED MYSELF OUT OF DATING IN HIGH SCHOOL, HAD I KNOWN I WOULD BECOME A TEEN PARENT, CAUSING MY FUTURE TO BE PUT ON HOLD.

Ann

You can do it, you are stronger than you think. Give yourself some credit; you are in competitive high school and are doing fine. You got into your dream school early, and now you have to ride out the rest of the year. So along with your courses, making memories, and having a fun finish to your high school career, I encourage you to squeeze in one more thing: learn to drive. You may march to the beat of your own drum, but this time, get your license just like your peers. If they can do it, so can you. I know you have are terrified of driving, but as you'll realize in college, you are nothing until you overcome your fears. When you get to college, you will be an independent adult. But swamped with work and meeting new people, practicing parellel parking is not always going to make your schedule. And during breaks back home, the last thing you'll want to do is study for the written test you now have to retake. I have much faith in you; you are growing into an intelligent, strong woman. Liberate yourself from childhood fears: get behind the wheel!

Chelsie

I would tell myself to man-up. Or woman-up, really. As a senior, I was nervous about coming back to America after 13 years overseas in Japan, England, Qatar and Turkey. I was busy thinking about the things that could go wrong, that I forgot to be excited about finally coming home. I did have a fantastic senior year in the Middle East - but still wish that I had loosened up a little bit before coming back. Since I have been home, I have seen falling snow for the first time since I was 6, watched Saturday morning cartoons (even though I'm 18), and had easy access to simply the best cereal in the world (you can't get Cap'n Crunch in England!). Now that I am here, I have gotten used to living close to my family, as opposed to being a zillion miles away. I finally get to spend time with my grandmother, whom I have missed during my time abroad. Most of all, I get to share my memories, and make new ones too. Being back in America is the next chapter of my life. I'm finally home, and I can finally belong.

Sara

The most important advice about college is to leave the door open. College is a new environment, where there are so many new people. They will all come from different backgrounds, potentially with very different views. Although they may be intimidating, have an open mind. That doesn't mean being a sponge and adopting every new view presented to you. However, it is so important to listen to what they have to say (even when you don't agree) and appreciate all the different experiences they have to offer. Having an open mind also means not being disappointed. College may be very different than you originally thought. It may not be everything you hoped but this life is what we make it. Don't judge things before you experience them. Really listen when your peers or professors present new opinions and ideas to you. Try to appreciate everything offered to you because freshman year goes fast and one day, you'll miss it. Finally, the best advice I can give is to leave your dorm room door open. People are always in the halls and the best way to meet people is by leaving your door open, literally.

Justine

You are about to embark upon a multi-faceted journey. I hope to advise you about it. Your journey will test your interpersonal skills. You will meet so many different types of people. Some of them will be easy to reach, but others will be harder. Don't give up hope on any of them. Learn to appreciate each unique person for their personalities and what they are capable of offering. This journey will also test your work ethic. I know that you've worked hard by simultaneously juggling studies and club work, but college will be completely different in terms of expectations and time required to attain exemplary grades while participating in extracurricular activities. You must make sure that you dedicate equal time to both pursuits. Two will contribute to your character, not just one. Additionally, ensure that you do not lose yourself in this journey. Change will try to consume your life, and it is up to you to ensure that you don't give it complete control. Your priorities and character led you to success before. Remember that, and allow them to do so again. Most important, hold strong, for you control your destiny.

Nadia

From kindergarten to high-school, I've always been a good student. I've consistently received A's and B's on all my report cards in my lifetime, without much effort on my part. School has naturally come easy to me, until college, where I discovered the importance of earnest study habits. If I could possibly go back to being a senior in high-school again, I'd emphasize this the most. I used to study by cramming, and jamming every single bit of information into my skull--a tendency that I still fall into sometimes today. I didn't reflect on the bigger picture, but rather focused on minute details. By remaining squared ont hese details and not the subject on hand, I lost a lot of valuable learning opportunities. I wish I could have known this back then, to make my earlier classes at Rutgers a bit more enjoyable and easier, rather than overwhelming and very difficult to become adjusted to.

Chelsea

If I could look back, and speak to myself when I was a senior, the first thing I would do was give myself a hug and words of encouragement. It was such a stressful time, deciding my future - but it doesn't have to be. I was so concerned with how I came across on paper but that is not what is truly important. I would have advised my past self to really study and take AP tests seriously. I saw them as GPA boosters, but doing well is really helpful in college. The ones I got credit for really made a difference (so I would definitely give the past me a high-five!) The other thing I could not stress enough it getting involved in things that can be continued on in college. That way, one already arrives with an identity of sorts. Especially in a large school like Rutgers, having community involvement or leadership already in place really helps the adjustment progress, and quells getting overwhelmed by the unending possibilities. Lastly, I would warn the "senior Chelsea"" that internships are a must; start thinking about them early because you are closer to adulthood than you realize!

Eve

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would warn myself against the tendency to acquire poor study habits and the importance of maintaining a careful balance between my social life and school work. After three semesters at Rutgers, my time management has improved considerably from what it was in high school; however that is not without a significant amount of trial and error. I would caution myself as a senior to avoid the major obstacles and pitfalls that are so easy to became ensnared in with such a busy schedule by budgeting my time carefully to avoid the last minute cramming, caffeine-induced all-nighters, and sub par work produced in haste at realizing a deadline is swiftly approaching.

kristin

If I were to go back to ym high school self, I would tell myself to not be so anxious and nervous. I would also say that the main thing to do when first going to college is to focus on your academics right away. You shouldn't worry too much about making friends, just put yourself out there, and you will eventually. It is nothing to stress over. You should start focusing on studying and getting a good groove on for academics before anything else. That is what's most important. The friends will come if you let yourself be open and social, but it shouldn't be consuming of the whole college experience. Academics are key to feeling good about your life and academic life, even before your friends. Make time for studying and homework before your friends. It might sound a bit depressing, but it's very necessary and crucial to having a successful college experience.

Stephanie

Do not get distracted! That is the major problem with most students at Rutgers University. There are plenty of times you are going to rather go out and have fun instead of studying for your Biology exam, but as long as you keep that good head of yours on your shoulder you will not fall into the temptation. Also, college is very different than high school. The professors there will not chase you around to hand in assignments and what not. You have to become responsible for everything overnight and it won't be easy. I know that you have that constant reminder from your teachers now to do work and to study, but once you get into college you're going to have to do all this on your own. You're going to have to learn how to balance your academic and social life. Have fun and do your best!

Janiera

If I were able to go back to my high school senior year, knowing what I now know about college as a college freshman, I would insist that I pre-plan everything and study more. I would tell myself to value any free time, because I am an athlete as well, but to most importantly study for each class at least two hours a day and read before attending lectures. It is important to read before lectures so while in the lecture hall you can simply listen to the teacher, he or she will repeat what you should already know and enforce key topics that you can simply highlight on your previously made outline. This tactic helps with efficient study habits and reduces stress and cramming before any exam. I would also tell myself to join as many peer study groups, because they allocate study habits or help that is easily comprehendible and efficient.

Daniel

My college education began only a couple of years after my completion of high school due to the fact that my father's business moved us to the Middle East. After returning to the US only two years ago, I have began to understand many things that I failed to realize as a high school senior. "While your education is important, life moves a lot faster than the speed at which you actually learn. The friends that you will make will not only help your transition but will also set the tone for your attitude towards school. Many of the people you meet here are people that you will keep with you forever. Choose your friends well and don't be afraid to let them help. That's why they're friends. Having fun and learning is what college is all about, but NEVER forget your goal. Always continue to strive towards what you want and do not give up, no matter what anyone tells you. You can achieve and you will achieve.

Lynn

Knowing what I do now about Rutgers University, I would probably tell myself senior year to realize how large Rutgers really is. This is because as large and diverse as it is, it sometimes feels as if I could use a car just to get from class to class. The classes are huge which can be nice but if it is not an interesting class, you probably will have a hared time doing well because it is easy to become distracted. However, I would also say that there are many opportunities to make friends and form study groups. There is basically something for everyone here at Rutgers from clubs and sports to religion and academics.

Jessica

I would tell myself that I have the drive and mindpower needed to succeed and that I should always believe in myself and never feel like I do not have what it takes to be competitive in the classroom. I can use my background and personality to provide a new outlook on the material I am learning and listen to others in order to critically analyze the points being addressed. I would explain to myself that not only am I smart but I also have ambition and an extremely hard-working attitude that will allow me to succeed. I would explain that it is important to get myself out there and introduce myself to others in order to further my connections and open up more oppertunities for advancement in my education. I would explain that there is no need to be ashamed of my opinions or afraid of what others might think, and that I should always trust my gut and explain my personal thoughts on the subject at hand. My best advice would be to stay true to myself and remember that I do have what it takes to succeed as long as I apply myself wholeheartedly.

Zeeshawn

In life, planned events and unfavorable circumstances rarely run smoothly without imperfection. All humans have regrets, no matter how much they try to convince themselves otherwise. Even if those past actions were not unfortunate enough for an individual to regret, there are always possibilities for enhancement. When I advanced into college ? the bridge between childish fantasies and real maturity ? I found the experience unsettling, yet exciting. Within the first week I had realized something peculiar, my laundry was piling up. Without the sheltered life style that I had grow accustomed to, simple things such as getting my own food became an adventure. If I could go back to my former self and tell him about college, I would advise him to understand what independence really means. Many teenagers eagerly rush away from home and never realize the safe haven lifestyle that they used to have. I would warn him that independence comes at the price of duties and responsibility. However, my advice would probably be in vain because there is no amount of planning that can possibly prepare an individual for the entirely foreign chapter to the process of adulthood.

Kimberly

Every person wishes they could know the things they know now earlier. If I could I would want my younger self to know that every thing I do affects my future life. I would tell my former self to get a job not matter how bad of a job it seems. Also, I would tell myself to relax. Graduating high school was not the end of the world even though that is how it seemed. I still see and talk to my friends and continue to have fun even without being in high school. Finally, I would let myself know how much my teachers did for me. I never realized how hard all my teachers worked and how much they taught me. Without them I would not be able to do many of the things I do today.

Frederick

There are many things I would tell myself about college life and what to be ready for. Some obvious things would of course be to study hard, concentrate on your work, and always approach things seriosuly. But that would not be all. I graduated High School from Las Vegas, Nevada, and wanted to go out of state for college. I wanted to try being away from my parents, and knowing that I had family in New Jersey, I decided to try out going to Rutgers. Getting accepted there was one of the most exciting things that happened in my short life. Although I love them very much, being away from the eyes of my parents was something I really wanted. One piece of advice I would give myself in that aspect is I should make sure I keep in contact with my parents. While it has been great being away from them for extended periods of time, there is no other set of people that can give you advice and make you feel good when things seem to be down. I don't think that I would have been able to get how far i got without them.

Robert

The main advice that I would tell my former self would be to network as much as possible. What I mean by networking is reaching out to everyone who could possibly help in the long journey towards success. First, in order to decide what college to attend, I would tell my former self to reach out to previous classmates or other individuals who currently attend or attended the universities that I was interested in and ask them to tell me about the benefits and downfalls of each. Next I would seek the advice of individuals who are currently working or have previously worked in the fields of study I was interested in pursuing in order to get a better insight on possible professions. Once my former self considered all of that input and decided on where to go and what field of study to pursue, I would then give the advice of networking out to teachers who are involved in the field of study chosen and get to know the people who could eventually help the most. Joining as many clubs related to your major as possible is also key, the more people you know, the easier the journey becomes.

Aman

Picking a college was a really stressful time for me. A part of me wanted to go to school somewhere on the other side of the country and experience something totally new, but another part of me wanted to stay close to home. If I could talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself not to worry about college yet. I learned that where one goes to college really doesn't matter, but what does is the opportunities that one creates for him or herself by doing the best he or she can in everything. Since you're definitely not going to be the only freshman there, the transition isn't as tough as you think. Since there will always be many people who have to make the transition from high school with you, know that there are always people who are going through the same experiences and that these people are the ones who will soon become some of your best friends. As a result, I would make myself know that the senior year of high school is an amazing year and to enjoy it, but college is on its way and is even better.

Janel

I took many AP and honors classes during my high school career. I challenged myself in every way possible and I was involved in many clubs. Senior year was the most challenging and stressful of them all since college applications were the only things on our minds. I would go back in time and tell myself that despite the difficult classes I was taking, college is something that is in a completely other level. I would tell myself that I needed to challenge myself more and make sure I understood everything. Sometimes things that I would not understand I would just ignore and continue as though there was nothing wrong. I would definitely go back and tell myself that I could have prepared myself more for college by challenging myself and asking more questions to make sure I got the education I truly deserved.

Megan

Megan, High School Senior (HSS): "Who are you? Are you me!?" Megan, University Senior (US): "I am you, but from the future. Kind of 'Back to the Future'-esque." Megan (HSS) stares, wide-eyed. Megan (US): "I wanted to tell you some things about going to college. You may think you want to get a degree that practically guarantees you a decent, stable job. You're wrong. Shoot for the stars because you won't like the "safe" routes you try to take. Learn to make up your mind: pick your dream degree and stick to it. Learn to balance your life with your schooling: don't focus only on your studies, but also take more advantage of the amazing extracurricular activities offered by the school. Also have more pride in your school. People make fun of the University of Idaho, but it is a good school. Not great, but good. Study abroad earlier while you have more financial aid. It will help you with all of your studies and your life. Oops, sorry. Gotta run. I'm going to run over the word count." Megan (HSS): "What?" She blinks in shock as Megan (US) disappears with a wink.

Anne

The one thing that I know about college is that if you don't know what you want to do, figure it out fast. If I could go back in time into my senior year, I would have told myself to stop procrastinating and ignoring things so I could "deal with them later". One of my biggest mistakes was wandering around aimlessly without a care about my future, taking my time figuring things out thinking that I'm still young so it doesn't matter. I wasted 3 years of my life and that is one of the things I regret the most. The key to being 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} satisfied with your decision is to face situations and tackle them head-on. If I could do it all over again, I would make sure I pushed myself to get things done, avoid procrastination when figuring out my major and what school I want to attend, and start myself in the right direction as soon as possible instead of waiting to deal with it later.

Nicole

If I was to go back in time and council myself on college advice I would stress a certain amount of information to maximize my future college experience. I would tell myself that my education has to be the absolute priority; no one there will hold your hand, so academic focus is critical. Your major, classes, and the professors you take, shape your future in more ways imaginable and each one of those has to be researched upon entry into college life. Ask deans, older students, and even ratemyprofessor.com! I would have recommended to myself to sample a range of courses of interest to me that are offered at the university. I feel as though now, that I have concentrated too much on classes devoted to my major and could have used some time in the beginning of college to experiment with different majors, minors, and interests. I would also stress that extracurricular opportunities at college are endless and need to be taken advantage of; it?s also an amazing way to meet lifelong friends. Every moment of college shouldn't be taken for granted because it is the outline for a fulfilling future.

Allison

The only thing I would advise my senior-self would be to take full advantage of all of the opportunities that college has. The best thing is to get involved, whether it be in a club, organization, volunteer group, or a sorority. It is important to meet people and have friends, especially as an on campus student who lives far away from home. Everyone needs a shoulder to lean on once in a while and it's a necessity to have friends for this very reason, no matter where you are. I would also tell myself not to forget my friends from home. Just because they're far away does not make them any less important than they once were.

Casey

Transitioning into college life can be one of the most stressful situations in someones life. If I were able to go back in time and give myself advice to make the transition easier, there would be a few simple things I would make sure to mention. The first and most important thing I would tell myself is to stay calm, and try not to overwhelm myself. That has been the key to doing well in everything else. The second thing I would tell myself is not to slack off in highschool or with tests such as the SATs because they are more important in the future than you really think. I would also make sure to tell myself to talk to the advisors at my school ahead of time in order to get anything I can out of the way to make the transition a little more smooth. I would also give the advice to not take too many credits your first semester. This allows for time to get adjusted to the work load, getting around the campus, and learning how things work at the school.

Eva

Looking back at my high school days, there are alot of things that I would go back and revise if I were given the opportunity. College has taught me that work ethic is no joke and the only guarenteed success of doing well in classes is thorough studying habbits. In high school, I really did not take the time to study in-depth all the course material at hand. Although I was involved with many activites in high school, whether it be sports or student government, I always managed to do well even though I really was not looking at the material with full comphrehension. Now I understand that this cannot be done. In addition, I have learned that time management is also an area that I appeared to be a little weak in. In high school I managed to juggle all the tasks at hand without really thinking about it. If I were given the opportunity to go back, I would not leave many of my assignments to the last minute and really be on top of my tasks. Even though I wasn't aware back in the day, college is making me learn these skills fast.

Krishna

Senoritis is tough to beat, especially when majority of the students have chosen to take it easy in this last year. I would suggest that you do not stress about maintaing your rank in the top 3 because no one will really care in college. However, do not completely slack off because it is difficult to get back into the rhythm. Stop procrastinating because it will not work in college. Even though you have been in the same school system all of your life and have the same friends, think beyond this small town and learn to reach out for things on your own. Resources and information will not just be handed to you. Enjoy with your high school friends now because you will rarely see them next year. Know as much as you can about yourself so you do not lose yourself into a whole new environment. And of course, good luck to you and the best years of your life!

Sharlene

Transitioning to college is a relatively new experience for everyone, and that is the main basis of the advice I would give myself. Whether a student is moving in from another state, across the country, or a town five-minutes away or commuting, student anxieties are similar, for example ? making friends, grades, missing old friends, getting lost, and having fun. Knowing that I was not alone in your worries would make it a lot easier to relate to others and relax. Most students feel the same way and are simply afraid to say anything, but it makes the situation a lot easier for everyone if one person is willing to step up and break the ice. I would tell myself to leave my fears behind and trust that everything will work out the way it is supposed to. Knowing that, I would encourage myself to be bold and just be myself ? try everything I want to try and never have a moment that I could look back on and wonder, ?What if??.

Gabriella

I would tell myself to research the types of classes and professors that a college offors. What is really most important is the education and return on investment that you will get from your education. I think I spent too much time thinking about location and what state I wanted to be in, and what city I wanted to be near. I would pay more attention to class size and the availability of developing relationships with faculty, and being able to take classes with faculty as opposed to with graduate students. I would also advise myself to look less at how pretty a campus is, or the look of buildings, and pay attention to the attitude and general student body. I would tell myself to spend time on the campus and think about if the majority of people seemed like the kind of people I wanted to be immersed in for four years.

Denise

If I had knew what I know now back in High school, I would have utilzed and managed my time more carefully. In college it is important to know how to manage your time, especially if you are involved and active as I plan on being this coming semester.The cirriculum and set up in college is completely different than high school. The cirriculum is intense and it is important that you do alot of the work that is expected of you out side of class. There is alot of reading, essays and projects that must be done in a small amount of time. At times it is hard to work, or go to the club meetings or events and do homework, you might even have to sacrafice the events and meetings for your homework. I found it handy to keep an agenda to help manage time, this way I will be able to be as active as I can be and still excel in school.

Danny

I would tell my high school senior self to be more open minded in college about a career choice or major, because in college you might find that you dislike that area of study. The social life at college is nothing like high school, so do not have the tendency of labeling yourself to just a group of friends or people, but instead to meet various people.

Jennifer

My transition to college was rocky at best, culminating in a diagnosis of anorexia nervosa. Although I can proudly say that I made a full recovery and am happier than I have ever been, I often wonder if the whole situation could have been circumvented right form the start. So to my high school self: dive right into the college experience! Be willing to throw yourself out there and try new experiences. Do not worry about trying to fit in, for in college, everyone finds their niche. If you have problems with your roommate, get help right away from a counselor or resident assistant. If the differences are irreconcilable, then be willing to switch rooms, dorms, etc. The change will be worth it, for an unwelcoming environment is toxic to your wellbeing. Living in a dorm is a priceless experience, as you learn to live with a variety of personalities, and attempt to balance work and fun. Keep on top of your studies, but also be sure to embrace the spontaneity and join in the fun of college life. In the end, you will be rewarded with a greater understanding of yourself, and people in general.

Briana

As a high school senior, my parents would preach to me about the importance of getting scholarships. They would say "I can't afford to pay for school, so if you want to go you need to get a scholarship." At the time, this did not phase me. All I wanted to do was finish high school, get out of my parents house, go to college, and move on with my life. However, today I realize the importance of scholarships and how pertinent they are to my education. If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would stress the importance of scholarships. I recently completed my first semester of my freshman year and realize that the transition that one makes from high school to college is a very difficult one. It becomes more difficult when you are unsure if you will be able to go back to school next semester because college is so expensive. I would tell myself to apply for as many scholarships as possible because I would be devastated if I could not go back to the university that I love because of money or the lack of.

Daniel

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to not hold back. I would tell myself not to choose a college based on which career is most realistic, but to choose based on what you truly want to do after graduation, even if that career goal seems completely impractical and out-of-reach. I would tell myself that going outside of my comfort zone to make new friends is necessary, and something that I wish I had done more. I would tell myself that partying is a very unnecessary part of the "college experience." I would tell myself not to worry about what others think about me, because quite frankly, others don't care; most people are only worried about what others think about them. Finally, I would tell myself not to worry so much about college - wherever I end up is meant to happen, and if it isn't, I can always transfer.