San Diego State University Top Questions

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

Daniela

Before going to college you need your guide lines: 1.Decide what you want your GPA to be and set up rewards and punishments for it 2.Shift messy piles away from the center of the room (I have plenty of bruises) 3.Decide what kind of character traits you want and then keep them 4.Do not try to impress anyone or you will end up asleep in paint 5.Working takes time away from studying, apply to as many scholarships as possible 6.When you leave a message for an instructor make sure you hung up the phone before swearing 7.Even if attendance is not taken, go to every class for repetition 8.You are a deep sleeper, don't leave your door unlocked so that your suite mates can come in and draw 9.Manage your eating, the freshman 15 is not a lie!!! 10.Watch out! Your future roommate will have a camera and will take pictures during humorous but embarrassing moments.

Maricela

If I could go back in time to stop and take a few minutes to advice myself as of the steps that would have helped me become a better person and succeed to the fullest potential as a college student, I would ,first of all, start off by taking surveys,assessments, and personality quizess. The reason being is because later on in life these simple questioneers helped me see the interests and careers that I was most fit for. For example, it narrowed my career choices from five to three occupations. Secondly, once in college, I would make sure to check out the certificates that are offered. A degree no longer guarantees to land you a job unless there is work experience and certificates to back it up. It just makes a person stand out from all the rest of the applicants. And third but not least, I would start volunteering within the job field that I would like to someday be part of. The benefits from doing this would be the building of your resume, work experience, more scholarship opportunities,and even later on make friends who could become references for you in future job applications.

Katie

Hello Katie! Once you enter college, you are going to be independent to a certain extent. For some people, that is a very daunting thought. The more independent you are now, the easier it will be for you to be successful and happy in college. It is up to you to wake up in the mornings and go to class, so make sure you are responsible enough to do so BEFORE going to college. Classes rely on self-motivation. No one will push you to do well and pass the course, so get excited for school! Become known to your professor and don't just be a face in the crowd- stand out! Make all the friends you can, attend social events, but make sure that your social life balances out with you being a student. Find an environment where you feel most comfortable, because it will make being away from home much easier. Call home whenever you need to and know that your parents will always be there, but make sure you don't dwell on what life was like before you moved. Take advantage of the opportunities you have earned!

Alfredo

Knowing what I know now, some piece of advice I would give myself is this: take advantage of all the great opportunities the university offers. The transition from high school to college was difficult, especially since I am the first in my family to attend college. My university offers great services and I would have benefited greatly from taking advantage of those opportunities. Becoming involved in some of the campus organizations would have been a great way to feel included into a cohesive community and it would have been a great opportunity to meet people. Along with the extra-curricular activities offered, I would also recommend taking advantage of all resources offered to students: career and academic services, as well as professors, who are always willing to help a student in need. The final, and most important piece of advice I could offer would be to follow the path you are passionate about. When I entered college, my brain was muddled by obligations and family responsibility. Now, I know that college is a time for both educational and personal growth. These times will define you and choosing a path that you are passionate about is essential to your future happiness.

Kiah

According to the work load of college I would tell myself that yes, college is tough but it?s all about organization and time management. College is actually easier than high school in the sense that you?re not going to school Monday through Friday from 8-3, but don?t slack off because you have so much extra free time. Make sure just to get things done and not to procrastinate, especially on writing papers. I would also give myself advice for my social life to get involved and get involved early. To get out there and meet all the new freshman who don?t know that many other people either. Joining clubs is a huge thing that I didn?t do until second semester of my sophomore year. Not only do you have fun and meet some awesome people that have the same interest as you, but it?s a great resume builder. Finally, I would tell myself to live and experience all college has to offer, but not to let this new experience, new freedom or new boys interfere with your school work. Because school is the number one priority and nothing is worth jeopardizing your future.

Alexandra

If I had the ability to go back in time there is a plethora of advice and wisdom I would offer my high school senior self. I would have told myself not to be scared to go too far away, that taking a risk of being father away from home would make me a stronger person. Instead of worrying about where my friends were going to school, I would have told myself to focus solely on myself; friends from high school may come and go, but you will always able to make new friends where ever you go. As a senior in high school I was rather confident of the major that I wanted, and I now am rather unsure of pursuing that career path. Therefore I would tell my senior self to look into more colleges with a variety of majors that I might have possibly been interested in, instead of limiting myself. The essense of all of my advice and the underlying message I would wish to convey is: don't be afraid to take risks! College is the time explore new things and learn new things about yourself.

LISSET

I would tell myself to be prepared to break out of your shell and not be a shy person because it will make it difficult to put yourself out there and meet new people. I would also inform myself that although it may seem like you're ready to give up you can not because its the tough situations that will make us stronger in the end. We all face obstacles and its how we approach them that allow us to see who we truely are. Although I love this area, it is far from home and you will feel like your ready to just move back home but you cant because this is where reality kicks in to see if you can truely make it on your own and the only way to overcome it is to be strong and push yourself to get through it and know that in the end your family will always be there regardless if it is not physically. I would also tell myself to read ahead so you can understand the material better when the teacher goes over it in class, its quite helpful and in the end i would say good luck!

Jessica

If I were able to go back in time to infrom myself about college life, I would advise myself to really get involved. Being active within the college community allows for many more social opportunities than just lving in the dorms. There are many ways to become active besides greek life such as clubs and campus activities.. By being active, the transistion from high school to college life becomes much easier. Just being a member of a club can be very helpful. I am currently a member of the Ballroom and Latin Dance Club at SDSU. Being a part of this club gives me something to look forward to every week. Not only is it a break from classes, but I am able to have fun, learn new dances, and make new friends. Making friends in classes can be difficult due to the fact that you are supposed to be listening to the teacher. Clubs and activities provide a relaxed way to get to know people without the sometimes boring classroom environment. Clubs are a good way to be invloved, but still keep up with your studies.

Elizabeth

When I was a senior in high school I was living in Minnesota and striving to go elsewhere. I was determined to go to either San Diego or Florida, however, I was the only one in my school planning to go such a far distance. Once I realized this is made my selection process very stressful and difficult. I kept doubting myself because I let other people convince me that it was too big of a change, that I wouldn't like it, and that I'll probably end up moving back within a year. I started to believe them and wondered if it was worth all the trouble and money since I would be paying out of state tuition. I decided to risk it all anyways and I am beyond happy that I did. If I could go back to my senior year I would tell myself to listen to my heart instead of letting other peoples doubts stress me out. Living a stressful life is not a fulfilling life. I would tell myself that I have to do what I want with my life because in the end it will all work out.

Chelsea

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would have a lot to discuss. I would tell myself to stay true to who I am, but be open to changing because there is a lot of growth to come in the future. I would remind myself to be confident in every endeavour, but not to stop at the slightest problem that falls into my path. College is completely different than high school. There are people from every different type of background and beliefs. You need to tolerate and learn both about and from people who surround you. Becoming an adult is a very dramatic change. Running errands and doing chores, in addition to building yourself an academic foundation become your primary responsibilities. You might be around a lot of people who are not interested in the same extracurricular activities as you, but you should not be discouraged because there will be a group you can relate to somewhere out there. Don't be afraid to be yourself, even if you get talked about. College is about knowing who you are and what you want to do in life.

Ashleigh

I would advise myself to really put myself out there and apply for more scholarships. I know it gets realy redundant hearing it over and over but it's true.; the more you apply, the more chances you have of getting some. Also, I would do more volunteer work which really adds to your applications. I would also tell myself not to stress too much about missing family and friends. Yes, I miss them, but I have made new friends and still maintain contact with everyone from back home. The first week or so is difficult getting used to everything, but once you adjust, college life is a lot of fun! Lastly, none of this would matter if you chose a school that you were unhappy with. I would tell myhigh school-self to look into other schools and apply there as well. When you limit the schools you look at and apply to, you may be missing an opportunity at a school you would LOVE! Do not settle for a school that does not make you happy!

Kelsey

The first thing I would tell myself is that the next 4 years of your life are going to be filled with some amazing experiences that will help you grow into the person you want to be. There will be many challenges to overcome, that will force you to grow academically, emotionally, and socially in so many ways. You are going to meet many people from all walks of life. Even if you don't see things the same way, its important to respect them. Of those many people you meet, you will also come across a few great friends. Things might become overwhelming, challenging, or lonely at times so it's important to be strong and remember who you are and where you are from. As time goes on, the transition becomes much easier. I would also recommend joining a club or sports team to get involved with an outlet that is non academic. Lastly, you should find a balance between your academic career and social life. Both are very important. Remember to have fun and experience as much as possible because these next four years are going to fly by.

Joanna

The number one thing I would tell myself is that you need to experience every thing possible! College is a time of adventure and you need to get out there and enjoy it. Make sure you make a ton of new friends. College is a time to learn about yourself and about life. Make sure you are dedicated to your studies, but also make having fun a big priority as well. You are going to miss your famnily and friends, but the homesickness will go away. When you are making your choice for which school to go to, make sure it is about you, and not your freinds or significant other. The college you attend should be YOUR dream, not that of any other person. Going to college is a life changing experience, so enjoy every second of it because it will be gone before you know it!

Kara

As a highschool senior I had no self-esteem and if I could go back in time and give myself a pep-talk, the first thing I would say is "Look higher." "What you'll find in college is a lot of unfulfilled expectations," I'd continue. "And it doesn't matter what school you apply to or where you go, you MAKE your experience. I've seen students lament that college isn't that different from highschool. They thought the students would be more mature. They thought the drama would disappear. They thought the teachers would be more inspirational. "But life doesn't hand you happiness, you have to step up and GRAB opportunities. If the people around you are immature, don't associate with them. Don't feed drama, be the better person. And teachers will reveal their genius to you only if you care to see it. I don't care how much money you have, where you're from or what body you were born in. It's what you make of yourself that determines what kind of person you are. "So reach for the stars because I know you're a dreamer."

Alyson

If only you could look in the future and see what lies ahead of you. I think what first comes to mind, if I could give myself advice, would be to always give yourself enough time with everything. Whether its with homework or just going to class. In college I have found time is very crucial because it can make a difference between an A or a B in a grade. It can determine making a deadline for an online test or maybe just meeting up with a Professor in his/her office hours. Providing yourself with a reasonable amount of time allows you to not stress over unnecessary worries and gives you more time to focus on other things going on in your life. In high school, I felt teachers were more passive and you could persuade them for a day extension on that paper you forgot to turn in. But in college, Professors take advantage of those deadlines and tell you "I am sorry but the paper was already due." These teachers are treating you like adults and not high school kids. If I could advise myself about college, time would be a major focus for the future.

Hoang

I would have told myself to never give up and to not let a professor stand in my way from my dream career. A professor embarrass me in one of his class and it was a class that I needed to take in order to take other classes for my major, so I dropped his class and changed my major. If I have just let go and worked hard then maybe I would have finish school by now. My advice to myself when I was a senior in high school would be don?t let little embarrassments change your mind on your dream career.

Tiffanie

If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to stay more focused on my grades, and study more, and that colleges look at your grades so make the best of high school, because it affects your life in the long run. I would also tell myself to go out more often with my friends, because you only live once, and lifes to precious to waste by sitting at home watching tv.

Samantha

The one single piece of advice that I would give to myself as a senior would be DO NOT FREAK OUT!! I would tell myself to not worry about the transition. This would be the only advice because for the first semester at least, I had done more work in both junior and senior year than in college(first semester only for sure). Even though the times I had visited the college it had seemed extremely huge, after a week, that feeling went away. Another thing to not worry about would be wondering if i'm going to make it to my classes on time. The teachers usually let the classes out early. Only one class out of the four I had taken didn't let the class out early but he also didn't let the class out late. I had heard that the teachers would be carefree except when it came to being late. This is not true. They actually don't mind if anyone is late. The just keep going on with class as if you never walked in. Just keep doing what I usually do . Be on time, do the work, and turn it in.

Kellie

As an incoming student to San Diego State University I though I knew what too expect having attended a community college for a couple years. I was in for a rude awakening when I realized that the university life was drastically different from anything that I had experienced thus far. The best advice I would be able to give myself as a high school senior would be to walk onto that campus with a smile on my face, ready to fearlessly take on any challenge that might be thrown my way. Don't hold onto too expectations. Maintaining a light-hearted and easygoing demeanor while still working hard academically is key. Don't pay attention to what others around you are doing. Do what you are able to do and what you feel is right. Never forget your character and moral fiber. Maintain as much maturity as is possible, make yourself look good. And most important of all, have fun but, be safe and smart about what you are doing. Being in college is about new experinces and living life but, getting caught up in dangerous practices is all too easy for many.

Katie

Stay on top of deadlines for things, like applying for your major, or paying your registration fees. Utilize your professor's office hours. Most are extremely helpful outside of class and want you to succeed. Balance school and fun because if you have no fun you will burn yourself out, but make sure to keep up on your studies. Don't fall behind in reading for classes because it usually goes so quicky it is very difficult to catch up. Make friends with your classmates, as they can be valuable tools for studying, and sharing notes if you miss a class. Do a couple of extra cirricular activities because you can make some amazing friends there, like marching band. I have made some of my best friends there while attending college, and I know I will be friends with them even after college. Just do the best you can in everything because that's all anyone can ask for.

Pauline

If I could go back in time and give myself advice as a senior who was frantically trying to find a respectable college to go to and never knew life beyond her academic realm I'd say, "Slow down, and just live life one day at a time." I was so concerned about getting into a UC and figuring out what I wanted to do that I didn't really know who I was. Going to SDSU, a less respectable school than UCSD or UCLA made me realize its not so much the school that is important but what you do in it. I learned to care less about the money and follow a dream that would make me happy, doing something I was truely interested in and felt accomplished in completing. I learned to trust myself and take risks. In doing so I figured out who I really was through not being what everyone else thought I should become. I rediscovered my love for subjects I discarded because they wouldn't make a lucrative living and made friends I'd keep forever. I'd tell myeslf then, the exact thing I'm telling myself now, "Breathe and live life."

Michael

Dont listen to the guidence counselor who forced you to take a math class that didn't prepare you at all for college math. Keep the good grades up, but dont think that freshman year of college is going to be anything like high school.

Maria

Education is a very important aspect in our lives. A person who has reached far in his education will definitely reach far in his career. This is the reason why you shouldn't let anything stop you from obtaining a good education. I joined the military after having a year of college education. This didn't hinder me from achieving my goal of getting a Bachelor's Degree. While in the military, I was still taking one or two college classes at a time. I got my Associate's Degree by doing that. Although I am still on active duty, I was very priviledged to get accepted in a program that would pay for my tuition fees to get a Bachelor's Degree. Seeing what has happened in my life, if I were to go back in time, I would definitely tell myself to just "keep on doing what you're doing because there are many opportunities out there for you (like the military to pay for tuition fees and different scholarship programs to pay for other expenses like required school materials) and there are many people out there eager to support your aspirations for a higher education".

Christina

I would tell myself not to be so scared. I was very nervous about going to college, that it would be incredibly hard and difficult to get used to. But it turns out that it was not nearly as bad as I thought it would be. I would tell myself that I was more ready for it than I thought, that I could handle it. I would also advise myself to prepare for more demanding classes and music performances. I would tell myself that it would be stressful, but to keep doing my best and keep hanging in there.

Larissa

I would tell myself to be more confident in the beginning of the year. It is so important to get involved right from the start so you don't feel like you missed out on making friends. Otherwise, everyone else will have made friends and you will just be stuck with your roommate, who may or may not be nice. Also, I would tell myself that I would face some very serious situations, such as a suitemate's rape, and I would remind myself not to judge the person, but to help her. It is also very important to keep a calendar of work you have to do. Keeping a calendar and makin sure you stay on track (deciding what you will do each day) really helps bring down the stress level, because you are able to do a bit at a time, rather than the whole project the night before it is due.

Jamie

If I was given the chance to talk to the high school senior version of myself, I would emphasize that prioritizing and staying organized is very important in college. In college, you are more in control of your education in comparison to high school and it is very pertinent that you prioritize and remain organized so you accomplish everything needed for your major and classes. Living in the dorms can pose as a distraction because you are constantly surrounded by some of your best friends and it is tempting to socialize; however remembering your priorities is important. Simple things such as a planner or meeting with an academic counselor can help you stay organized and on track with your education and thus helping you prioritize. There are requirements that need to be met, such as for registration, and it is crucial that you stay on top of these so that you don?t fall behind and are able to accomplish all your prerequisites. Not only will prioritizing and organizing help you throughout college, but it is an important trait that will be useful in future jobs and in life.

Ashley

I would tell myself to always remember why I am going to college and to focus on whats most important. The transition is hard, but if you surround yourself with the right people and make the best decisions for yourself, college will be a breeze. College is where you will change the most as a person it's where you really need to start focusing on youre future. Balance your fun and your studying because if you don't, you will find youreself living in a world of no fun at all. And yes, it will be FUN to study really hard in the library for two days straight and see that A on your biology exam.

Nohely

If I was back in High School and I had a chance to explain to myself what college was all about I would first start with being independent. In college teachers nor anyone else will remind you when something is due or when an exam is. It is ones responsibility to keep track of any due dates, and then I would continue by stating that shyness should not be a factor in college, because when you have a question, and you don?t ask because you are shy or fear of asking a stupid question, then you are only failing yourself. Another thing I would consider telling myself is to manage time well. If you have 10 minutes before a class starts, be there early and ready to work and pay attention, don?t waste time by getting an extra snack or talking to a friend, do what you need to do to succeed in that specific class. Lastly, I would tell myself to enjoy the time at school, enjoy learning everything you can, and with the responsibility, the hard work and the enjoyment, college will be a successful experience.

Leonsio

If i could go back to high school, I will probably pay more attention to my professor advisers. Also, I will have more time with my friends because after graduation I lost track with many of them. I will advise myself to apply to school and do all the things I wanted to do before graduation, to enjoy life and have fun.

Rachelle

I would definitely tell myself to become more organized and work on my time management. Also, I would emphasize the importance of extracurriculars and the availability of scholarships and how both should be taken seriously. Basically, I would relate the importance of being an efficient and well-rounded individual.

Amanda

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior the number one thing I would tell myself is to take chances and get involved. I would tell myself to be excited for change and not scared of it. The transition from high school to college is a huge change but the most exciting change I have made in my life. College gives you an opportunity to focus on what your good at and it gives you the ability to excel in areas that interest you. Overall, I would take the worry fact out of heading off to college.

Angela

I would tell myself to start out strong and not under estimate the work load. I would tell myself to spend time studying so that I can do well in the beginning so that I won't have to stress later. I would also tell myself to not get too crazy. Going away to college gives you alot of freedom and it is easy to not go to class, hang out, and fall off track. So I would definitely have to let myself know that I need to just stay focused and do what I came to San Diego for, which is to go to school. I would tell myself to take at least two classes every summer in summer school so that I can stay ahead and possibly graduate early. The last thing I would tell the younger me, is that it's okay to have a social life. I have to take care of school, but I also have to take care myself and that includes making friends and taking time off from studying, and doing it in a responsible manner.

Erica

If I could transport myself back to high school and give myself advise about what to expect in college, I would say, "Don't be afraid, my child". I would tell myself that all my hard work in high school -- taking the SAT three times, getting up at 6:00 every morning, pushing through my AP classes, cramming for pre-calc, and putting up with my boring, humorless teachers was all totally worth it. I would smile brightly, slap myself on the back and say, "Girl, you are in for a radical ride!" I would advise myself to attend orientation, make a few good friends, find the financial aid office and the campus mental health clinic. I would say don't drink tequila on an empty stomach or throw up on your shoes. I would warn myself that time-management was going to be crucial in college and to brush up on my juggling skills. I would say study hard, take your vitamins, find a support system, ask questions, floss regularly, talk to your academic advisor, don't flirt more than fifteen minutes a day and what ever you do, ENJOY the hell out of it.

Alexandra

I would tell my high school senior self to seize the day and that everything will work out for the best. College is a time for new opportunities and to learn what you want in life. My uncle was recently diagnosed with lung cancer and it has been very hard on my family. It has taught me that you don?t know what tomorrow will bring and that you should live each day like it is the last. My uncle and my father who passed away due to cancer are my motivation to be the best that I can be. This made me realize what is important in life and to take everything, the good ad the bad, in stride. There is no sense dwelling on the mistakes you made in the past as long as you learn from them.

Kelly

If I had the opportunity to go back and give myself some advice before attending San Diego State University, I would have some helpful hints to make it through this school. I would have tell myself to try to make friends in each one of my classes, not only to grow a larger network of friends, but also have the possibility to have study groups for those classes. Secondly, I would say to have no judgments on people that you may meet. Since this is such a large school you will encounter many different types of people with various lifestyles, and one may never know who could be your great friend. Finally, I would say to remain true to yourself and to not stress the little things that may come in my life. There are all new experiences and opportunities that will appear in front of you, but do not be overwhelmed by them because you never know when one of them may change the direction of your life.

Kayla

After experiencing one semester as a college student, there is one major piece advice that I would have given myself as a high school senior. First, it is important to recognize that a college like San Diego State University will have much more diversity than my high school. Everyone is different and has different habits, which is important to know if you are planning to live in the dorms. You can not judge anyone for how they are; you must realize that you will not get along with everyone and everyone will not get along with you. Second, I believe that the most important piece of advice would be that everything is your choice. You can control how much effort you put into your classes and how much time you spend working. If you want to skip class, the choice is up to you...but realize that there are consequences for your actions. Before going to college, it's important for a high school senior to know that starting the very first day they go to college, they are in control of their lives and they will make the decisions that will lead them to success or failure.

Giovanna

If I was able to give myself advice as a high school senior, I would tell myself to never give up. After attending San Diego State for the past three years, I know now that sometimes you have to fail in order to succeed. I would also tell myself that when life is challenging and you are overwhelmed, just take one task at a time and take time to organize yourself. I would tell myself to not worry if you are unsure what you want to obtain a career in because there is plenty of time in college to gain experience and identify yourself and your identity. I would tell myself that although the transition into college is frightful, in the end once you have risen above all the obstacles, the struggle was worth it when you are able to see yourself get from point A to point B in life. Never give up, you can do anything you set your mind to, and do not let any one discourage you from your goals and dreams.

Mario

If I could go back to my senior year of high school, I would tell myself to be more dedicated towards doing the work for classes. Because I have not always followed my own advice, I have indured much unneeded stress in my school work and have spent many nights catching up on the work I had not done in the previous weeks. I can not stress how important it is to stay on track of the work required from classes, but this can be easily avoided by disciplining myself to being dedicated more to my school work. Also, procrastination is a big problem for many students in college, including me. So studying two days before a midterm is not an option anymore; the studying has to take place at least one week prior to each big exam. If it wasn't for these two flaws in me, I would have easily been a part of the Honor roll in high school and college. So listen to me, younger me, DO NOT WAIT FOR LATER to do the most important things, do them that same day, it will benefit you.

Brianna

My number one advice to myself would be to get my education done right away. College is not as scary and overwhelming as I may have thought at 17. I should go to a community college to get my GE classes done and then transfer to a University. It is so much easier to complete your education right out of high school, then to go back and complete it with responsibilities and a career. Working full-time and going to school full-time takes a lot of time and sacrifices, and I wish I had done it differently. In order to explore my options, to be able to study abroad, to have a wider option of classes and schools; I should have gone to college right after high school. There will always be time in the future to make money and to have a good time with friends and family. Without an education, it will be hard to accomplish any dreams I may have of living abroad, climbing the corporate ladder, or being in a skilled position. Bottom line, don't procrastinate, get school out of the way ASAP!

Jennifer

"College" can stir up a myriad of emotions- plethora of opportunities, chance at a different life or gaining independence, furthering education, or simply something our parents expect of us. But the reality is college is about choices. In college, you get to choose what you like or dislike, love or loathe, and what brings us passion for life or self-contempt. Your experiences in college are what you make of them. Remember the PB&J: Pace yourself, Be true to who you are, and use Judgment and discernment in all situations. P: Pick a college that best suits your academic abilities. Consider quarter or semester- Do you learn better with a condensed or expanded amount of time? Set a good regimen. Leave enough time to do all the necessary things as well as pencil in the recreational. Take the amount of classes you need and are able to manage. Schedule time to breathe and have fun. B: Many people will want your attention and may tempt to change your identity. Do what you love and keep your own head on your shoulders. J: Judge situations before making them. Weigh the pros and cons. Ultimately, make sure your adventure is fulfilling.

Michael

The first thing I would say is be prepared for the most life changing experiences in your young life. What you heard about college being hard, you're right. It is going to be a very difficult transition but you have what it takes to continue your academic success. When you first start out come with an open mind to everything that comes your way. Whether it's very important decsions to make or just everyday situations. It took me a while to get involved with campus activities, do not let it take a while for you. There are so many things to do at school. Do not hesitate to choose classes you know you'll enjoy. Besides your required major classes, take additional easy classes that are fun such as bowling and weight training, I know you would like those. My last piece of advice would have to be to keep in touch with old friends but do not hold back, you are about to meet so many people and gain so many new friends, even friends you never thought you would have in high school. Well good luck the rest of the year and get ready for life.

Emily

I would tell myself that it does not matter where I go to school, I will find a group of friends that I belong with. I was so worried about knowing someone that I chose my school based on where my friends were going and now that we are sophomores, we don't even see each other anymore. If I had known that we would drift apart I would not have followed them to school, I would have gone somewhere new and found myself in a new environment that would challenge me intellectually and socially. I would also tell myself to take time to learn who I was and what I wanted to do with my life. I entered as a business major because it is so versatile, but I would like to do something exciting with my life instead of take the safe road.

Daishanna

Daishanna in order to prepare yourself for college you need to do the following: 1. Start reading more 2. Study for all your classes (especially math) 3. Do more volunteer work 4. Be more involved with school 5. Start filling out scholarships And last but not least remember even though you will be writing admission letters, be yourself.

Sara

Going to college is a scary step into adulthood. It gives first-year students a taste of independence, especially for those who choose a school away from home. Because of the magnitude of such a change, there is one piece of advice that every high school senior should have when considering their academic future. The most important piece of advice for all seniors is to understand they are in charge of their own future. Many high school seniors seemed to be very pre-occupied with getting into a ?name-school.? While there are many benefits in attending such a school, those who choose to attend alternate institutions should not feel any sense of dissatisfaction. Whether a student chooses to attend an Ivy League, state school, or local community college, it is up to the individual to make the best out of their experience. Undergraduate education is a time to explore new ideas, learn, meet new people and build long lasting relationships. No matter what college a student attends, there are opportunities for success knocking at every door. Deciding on a school is only the first step. It is what one makes of the experience that determines their future.

Samantha

If I could go back and in time and talk to myself about what I know now I would first off tell myself that I don?t need to stress, because my senior year was much harder than my first semester in college. I would also say that when my roommate called and asked if I was a neat freak I would tell myself to say yes, in hopes that this would make her keep her side of the room cleaner than she does now. But the most important thing that I would tell myself is that I need to try even in the easy classes. Writing essays the night before won?t cut it the way it did in high school. Also even if I think I know the material I still need to study. Studying for test would be the most valuable piece of advice that I could tell myself. Realizing this later in the semester made it harder to get the grades that I would have like to get it. I would also tell myself that I?m proud of her and her hard work paid off.

Antonio

I had a great time in highschool and there is not much that I would change but I would have told myself to do more. You are your own worst enemy and you set your own limits. I would have probably taken more advanced courses and done more extrecuricular activies. I miss playing volleyball and it is hard to find the appropriate competition level in college because intermurial is too easy while club is too hard. In high school I had the perfect level.

Kevin

I would say to focus more on being accountable for my actions and responsible for my own affairs, as opposed to relying on others so much for help. I would also express how important it is to be organized so that you have easy access to past work and documents in order to increase your efficiency. Be well prepared ahead of time for upcoming assignments and events so you will never be caught off guard. Avoid procrastination at all costs because it can get you into trouble. Learn to identify resources up front, so that when you need help you will know exactly where to turn. In addition, take note of advice given by those who you aspire to be like, or those who have had similar experiences in the past. Also remember that first impressions can go a long way. You never know when you will meet someone of importance who can assist you in the future.

Berklee

I can't believe it was a two years ago that I commited to going to SDSU. Being from Arizona, I was completely stepping out of my comfort zone and picked a school that I would know no one. Looking back, I was happy that I had the confidence to make that scary decision. What I would have changed though would have been to apply for as many scholarships as possible, take a tour of the residence halls before I moved in, and take advice from as many current college students as possible. College is a totally different environment than high school. It is important to take memories from the past, but in college you must be open to change. Your world expands and you are exposed to different people, views, and ways of life. You have to learn to be strong in your beliefs, morals, and values, but you also must be open and accepting of other people and their beliefs, morals, and values. College is such an eye opening experience that truely changes you as a person. High school seniors need to be open to changes and realize that their transformation as a person is not complete yet.

Lizette

Choose a school that is close to home, close enought to visit every two or three weeks, but far enough to where you can be independant.

Jing

Work hard and be responsible for eveything you do.