Seattle University Top Questions

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

Aubriana

College is hard. I came to this school for the wrong reason and if there were any advice I could give myself as a high school senior, it would be to go to college with the goal of getting an education. My original goal when coming to this school was to find myself as an independent person as well as try new things without my parents on my back. I didn't realize until this school was almost taken away from me what my real purpose here is. Yes, this school is expensive, which means you just have to try harder to stay here. This school offers so much towards your education and every faculty member is so willing to help you with whatever you need. Take advantage of every resource this school offers. You are capable of achieving so much, don't throw it all away for the sake of partying. Freshman year is exciting, but focus on your studies and do your best. Don't be nervous, you're going to be great.

Hannah

Change your mind, and change it often. College is the time to truly explore what deeply moves you. The choices you make will feel as if they are the biggest challenges you will ever face, but trust me, they get harder! In every decision you make, whether it be your friends, your classes, and all the little things, choose with your heart. It is okay to change your mind, as long as you follow your heart. If you make a choice and it was wrong, you can feel confident owning your mistakes because you knew at that moment, that decision was true to your heart. Do not settle for something that does not fill you, because there is room for mistakes! Do not look back and say “I should have”, look back and say “I did”.

Kasey

I would give myself the advice to breath, deep breaths, in and out, and remember that change is good, even when it hurts. I would remind myself that people really aren't as scary as they seem, that no one can tell that your right side is paralyzed or that you even have a disability at all, and even if they can tell that your fingers are abnormally stiff, they will not judge you for it. I would remind myself to be kind to everyone, even the people who get under your skin, because they might be the person you need help from later on. I would remind myself to smile. I would tell myself that if you just trust in yourself and ignore those thoughts about how your answer in class isn't good enough, you'll be one of the best students and your professors will tell you so. And finally, I would tell myself to not be afraid, to not hide in my room, but to go out and explore, join clubs, ask that boy out, and dance, even though your right arm is stiff and you don't have control over it. Just dance.

Alicia

During the last leg of high school, of college ambassador visits, frantic applications, and FAFSA deadlines, I've been bombarded by "practical" advice: "Don't forget about your GPA", "Even if you've been accepted by your college, you can still fail!", and other intimidating words of warning. With the surmounting pressure to succeed or to crash and burn, piece by piece, I've generally forgotten that I was my own person, that I was anything but a product of a system out of my control. But if there's one thing that college is filled to the brim with, it's freedom. High school conforms you, forces you to become someone you can no longer recognize because you're afraid of the grief, afraid of the pain that comes with being what makes you, You. Graciously, college says, "To hell with that! Your destiny is yours to decide and what you choose will be of your own free will." So enough of the "yes man" and become "my own man". Do what you want to do, eat what you want to eat--dance like nobody's watching!

Siri

What I made the mistake of in high school was concentrating too much about what other people thought about me. I attended Bellevue College for about 2 years before transferring to Seattle University, and going to college and stepping out of high school changed my perspective on this. I realized that the only person who can and should make me happy is myself. If I can't be happy with myself and the efforts I put forth in my life, it makes it much harder to succeed, socially, mentally, and physically. The other day, I was talking to my boyfriend, and I said, "I am not trying to lose weight to make you happy with who I am. I am trying to lose weight because it will make me happier with who I am." That is something that I never would have done or said at 17 years old. Worrying about what other people think about you only stresses you out and feeds into negative thoughts.

Joanna

Going into college I was not exited for any aspect of it, I was scared that I was not smart enough for a private university and that I would never be able to make friends. I knew that my high school education was not good despite the fact that I was in AP classes and I had the mentality that the only reason I was accepted into Seattle University was because of my ethnic diversity. Now that I have completed my freshman year of college I can say I had a great experience and made some of my closest friends. If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself it is ok to be scared but do not think you are not good enough for this opportunity. Seattle University chose me for a reason and now I see that it is a big opportunity that I very much appreciate and an experience that I have so far loved. Another advice I would give myself is to not be so shy. Coming form a small judgmental town I now appreciate living in a city like Seattle where everyone is open and accepting.

Kea

If I could go back in time and give myself advice I would say "compare the costs and have a back up plan". Unfortunately, I did not really consider the financial constrains of attending the college, flying between my home and school during breaks, shipping necessary items, and not having a job lined up out here so that I could continue to work and make payments on my bill. I also was not prepared enough to have a fall back university incase I do have to transfer to a cheaper institution to continue my education. I would advise myself about these aspects if I ever had the chance, but what is done is done. I've learned and grown from my mistakes and that's all that matters.

Chelsea

"Don't be scared," I tell her sternly as I grab her shoulders. "No, you've never made a financial decision in your life and this talk of long-term budgeting is overwhelming. Yes, you have an autistic little brother you need to think of when you look over job prospects, which is terrifying in itself. I know what paralyzes you is not knowing what the future holds...and I can't say that we will ever be able to predict what's to come--which is a control factor that we have a hard time letting go." I pause for a bit, watching as the lines on her face twist into hopelessness. Then I smile. "But guess what? You'll make a plan for paying-off your student loans. You'll be introduced career options that you never imagined and they will help you do what you love while ensuring you'll take care of your family. Those moments of the unknown you absolutey hated? They will become your chances for discovery and exploration. " I can't help but laugh at her uncomprehending stare. "Don't be scared," I repeat, kinder this time. "Be scared while being brave."

Singleton

My advice would be to find my passion and attend college directly out of high school. I did the opposite. I went directly from high school into the work force. I first worked in a restaurant. I then married and shortly after I was a father. The restaurant industry did not have the pay or benefits needed for my small family, so, I made a career change into the housing/manufacturing industry. I worked a manual labor position for a tub manufacturer for nearly 19 years when they closed their doors. I found myself without a job and over 40. I had a family to support and no education. To make matters worse, my wife had suffered from a back injury and she was also unable to work. Our saving grace was an opportunity for me to return to school and train for another field. We still struggle with finances but at least we have a plan and hope at the journey's end. I have found it is so much more difficult to be an adult learner verses when I was in high school. My advice would be to obtain my education first because that lasts for a lifetime.

Shahida

The advice I would give myself is to first think of the exact major I want to do in college and prepare myself for it be volunteering in the field, job shadowing, asking individuals in the profession what they think about it. Also I would apply for scholarships every month once I start my senior year so I can start saving for college. Also I would suggest picking up a part time job so I can save up for tuition and book costs. Starting out at a community college is the best money saver. I would also look at schools that have to particualar major/field I want to go to and start comparing them. This way you know what particular schools want, how they differ and start catering your application requirements to these specific colleges' programs.

Nadine

The advice I would tell my high school senior self would have to be when looking at colleges find a college that you can see yourself in. Do not pick a school that your friends are applying to because college starts, you will meet a new group of friends and not just the friend that you met in high school. Another important thing to keep in mind is to follow your own mind and heart rather than what your parents or fellow peers think is best. This is because they are not the ones going to college, you are. They do not know what you like nor what you want in a school, only you can determine this. The important thing to remember is to be a leader not a follower. Not only does this advice help in school, but also in life. One cannot be a leader if they are a follower.

Olivia

I would tell my high school self to just relax. If you stress about the transition, you're going to be stressed out. Everyone wants to adjust and make friends, so you're all in the same boat. It's going to be okay. The classes may be tougher but you'll have more independence and everything is in your hands in college. If you need help, it's up to you to get it. So don't stress, but be firm with yourself. Know what you have to do and do it. College is your time to be whoever you want to be, so make the most out of it. And remember, it's all going to be okay.

Kaitlynn

If I could go back to when I was in high school I would actually finish high school and tell myself I can do this! I have a daughter so if I never dropped out she wouldnt be here today. I wouldnt change anything really, I of course would try harder!

Sara

If I could back in time as a high school senior I wouldn't tell myself a thing. I believe that as we go through life, we learn from our mistakes. We should see each day as a learning experience. Part of maturing, is making mistakes and growing from them. When I was in high school, I did well enough to get into San Fransisco State, but I did not go. Instead, I went to Palomar Community College. Some say this was a smart move because I saved money, and some say it was a mistake because there is nothing like the real college experience. I personally think that everyone has their own path, and I went down mine in the right way. I have grown up so much since high school, that I now feel capable to make the switch to a University. I think that people need to stop looking back so much and wondering what they could have said or changed. We should all be looking towards the future and what it has in store for us. That is the advice I am giving myself now.

Ryan

Dear 2010 Ryan, A part of me wishes you could actually read this. That part of me wants to save you the pain you will shortly endure. Only if you could read this would restless nights of watching the rain fall, wishing you were somewhere else be spared. But as I realize you need to suffer to become who I am today, no advice could be given. Our two year gap may seem insignificant, but those two years are monumental. It would be selfish to give you advice, knowing that every breath you took and every step you walked would lead you to be someone else. Because the path that you are on is going to bring you through a great deal of sorrow. But through it all you will become me. And for the first time you will be happy and proud being who you are. If I could go back in time a note would be left on your bed just before you moved into your dorm. On it would be written, Your past is not your future… Your past is NOT your future.

Abigail

If I could go back in time I would tell myself about the awkward walk to class on my first day in college. I had no idea where I was going, and even though I got to the campus really early so I wouldn't be late to class, I barely made it to class on time. I would talk to myself about how to make sure I get good teachers, using the resources that are available online to make sure I have teachers that I feel like I can learn something from. From the first class I had on the first day, to the last class I had on the day of finals I learned that it is just as important to attend classes on time every day, as it is to make sure I have teachers that I can understand and learn from. It's difficult to know how to be successful when you don't have the proper tools to help you along the way and contribute to the journey, and I would want to let myself know about how to take advantage of the different resources that are available to me as a student.

Cassandra

Don't be afraid to put yourself out there. Join clubs, meet new people, and expand beyond your floor. Yes, you're going to make great friends with the people who live on your floor, but it's also good to see who else lives on campus. Do hang out with your neighbors, but not too much around finals time. Stress can turn people into monsters. Things are going to get hard. Get help as soon as you can. Don't worry about what people might think of you. The psychological services here are great, and they're really willing to help you. It will get better. If you don't like what you're doing, change your major. It's your life, no one else's, and if you're not happy now, what makes you think that you'll be happy in the future? Switch to what you love to do, you won't regret it. Most of all, have fun! This is the time of your life, don't waste it.

Zoe

Apply for as many scholarships as you can so you can pay for college. Also, don't be shy. Get out there and make friends because there are so many incredible people with amazing stories that are just waiting to share them with you. Make sure you sign up for classes early so you can get the classes you want. Finally, study a map of wherever you are going to school so you don't get lost. Lost people are most often the ones targeted by predators because they make easy targets, so be careful!

Hana

Set a goal for yourself and set out to achieve it. You've heard it a million times before but your college process really does begin with what you make of yourself in highschool. You should really value the time and teachers there because things will be extremely difficult and foreign to you when you go to college. You will miss out on attending a university as a freshman if you don't bring up your SAT scores drastically. Apply to scholarships now! As you know, mom and dad don't have a college fund for you, so you must try your best to make ends meet and help pay for college yourself. I know it will be a difficult journey, you may cry and doubt yourself many times, but just know that people are always there to help you. You never have to go through anything alone. Communicate with your parents more, it may seem like there trying to ruin your life now, but you will appreciate the sacrifices they made for you to come to the U.S. and make something of yourself. Stay true to who you are and always have faith.

Jaimar John

If i can go back in time and talk to myself as a high senior student, I would advice myself to do better during my high school days since highschool is the foundation in preparing for college. Reading and Writing are both vital in college since most of the courses requires it. I would tell myself to practice reading lots of books since there are many readings in college and to broaden and improve my imagination so that I can write my essay assignments continously without having any headache thinking of ideas . But the most important advice I can give to myself for me to succeed in college is to be aware of deadlines. DONT PROCASTINATE! that is my golden rule since procrastinating is reallly tempting to do when there are loads of work to do in school. Procastinating would just lead me to cram and rush on my duties which would eventually result in presenting a sloppy project or assignment. some say that "it is better late than never" but believe me, it is never good to become late in anything we do. It's better to finish off whatever you can do right now than to cram tommorow.

Whitney

After being in college for two years, I know now that college is nothing like I expected. If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself not to attach myself too much to my high school persona. Starting colleges gives you a clean slate, you can be whoever you want to be. I took me a while, but I finally started to be myself and it took college to make me realize that I wasn't being myself in high school.; I was trying too hard to impress everybody. I would also tell myself not to be roommates with my high school best friend. Though it seemed a good idea at the time it prevented me from openeing up and meeting new people, and it also ruined a freindship. If I hadn't have held on to the relationship like a saftey blanket than not only would I have retained that relationship, but I would have expanded my social circle, and thus the potential for new experiences, and been able to find out sooner who I wanted to be as a college student.

Andrea

I'm learning more about the concept of justice and its role in society.

Jianna

My college experience thus far has opened my eyes and my world to many fascinating aspects of life, from language to politics to clubs where I feel empowered, and though in a group feel like I can accomplish things. I have learned to be patient and work with other people in groups. The most valuable thing though that I have learned is time management and about people. Time management will always be a useful a skill and as far as people go just that about who to trust and whether or not to deal with people, and how to focus on my education. College has been valuable for me to attend because my time is spent working towards something productive, which for me is saving the planet. I have been able to learn languages and meet people that have the same interests acquire people skills, problem solving skills as well as work experience and enjoying life as well. I am also in a program currently at my college called Model United Nations which is the subject I intend on majoring in. So to sum it up college offers a variety of opportunities which lead to other opportunities.

Cori

Without college, I wouldn't be a dedicated and hardworking student. Signing up for classes has taught me how to manage my time wisely and to take things seriously; applying things to everyday life and getting what I can out of it. It's up to the student to utilize their resources the best they can and to learn if they want to. We're entering the adult world and must stand up for ourselves and accomplish something if we wish to achieve anything in life. College will help me on my way to finding a great job which can sustain a healthy lifestyle for myself in the future. My parents never attended any school after graduating high school, so this is an important statement for me to make. I wish to climb higher than I ever have before and will let nothing stand in my way.

Melissa

My college experience has opened so many new doors for me. I am a business finance major. I have learned such valuable information not only about my major but where my future can take me in the last two years. I have built some amazing friendships with people and made amazing connections with some great professors. The business world is a competitive league and I have learned how to handle and succeed in so many different ways. I know I have learned some valuable lessons along the way and I am excited to see where my path takes me. I have three more years to go and I couldn't be happier with the results so far.

Christina

I have learned to work with people I don't necessarily like. I have learned to put work first, play second, and sleep third. Even though it is important to get good grades it is also important to take time for oneself so that you are happy. Seattle U is valuable to attend because it is a community inside a big city. A student gets an urban cultural education, that is personal because the school is not too big.

Carlito

I learned a lot about me. While I took this huge journey to learn about the world, learn about my field, and learn about the professional world, I was understanding how I fit in this chaotic world. I would do it again! Regardless of the stress, white hair, pain, and debt. :)

Rachele

Prior to college, I had dropped out of high school to obtain a GED. The expectations for my future were to do nothing with my life. But in college, I have become a superior academic competitor; Vice President of Service for our college Honor Society, Phi Theta Kappa, I have conducted and presented my first research experiment as the first student from my college ever to do so, and have a current GPA 4.0. College was my rebirth by giving me a reason to have pride in my work and a flourishing environment for the blossoming of new constructs of creation and philosophy in the classroom and in life. In a community college, it has been also rewarding to see my exploits inspire others. College helped me to become a leader, an idealist, and to have a compassion for life that I will carry with me as I progress into my future.

Ann

Although I have only been going to college for one quarter, so many things come to mind when people ask me if I am glad I attend college. I learned about new people, personalities, cultures and ways of thinking. I am able to see a new person out of me; I learn new things every day about myself and everything I did not know . I learn about sustainability, homosexuality, homelessness, poverty in America and issues on technology. College has helped me to become a better writer and critical thinker because typing a 10-15 page every week isn't unusual for me. The critical thinking comes along when typing an essay because the topics and styles of writing are frequently mixed. The most unusual form was exploratory and proposal argument essays. College is valuable because taking a step from high school to the real world does not help people see the big picture of relations with other countries and issues from different perspectives. College helps us to be open minded and helps student receive an education that can help the future generation have a better life; whether it deals with sustainability, technology or the economy.

Shelby

Enlightenment. Never have I found the answers to my own personal and spiritual questions, like I have in college. I have become knowledgeable on a wealth of subjects and pushed to explore my strengths and weaknesses. I feel as though by going to college, I have opened my mind to the new ideas of ethics, logic, and spiritually. In doing so, I am able to challenge myself like never before. The value of education is unimaginable. I feel as though I no longer look at things in black and white, but in a full array of vibrant colors. I am able to apply my knowledge to life situations and make decisions based upon them. I cannot imagine who I would be today if I hadn’t chose to attend college.

Angelica

"Social justice... yeah... what is that? Like helping the kids in Africa or something? College is for getting a job." A response like this is typical when I talk to my peers who were not able to attend college. They view college as a means to an end, one inch closer to what society defines success, monetary wealth. Contrary to this, I have gained the ability to open my mind to the problems the world faces and, more importantly, the fact that ordinary people such as myself can relieve some of this suffering. Had I not attended college, I am sure I too would have been caught in the bubble that encases so many today, that there is no other world aside from their relatively priveleged lives. So far this has been such a fulfilling, enlightening experience, and it's important for people to realize that their actions today define our world tomorrow.

Hanalina

Before I came to Seattle University I was a very introverted person. Because of how open and accepting this campus is, I feel that I have been able to open up to others in ways I had never imagined before. Ontop of the top rate education they've provided me, they've helped me grow as a person in the short time that I've been here and I'm so grateful for that.

Chastyn

I have learned that anyone can do anything they set their mind to. I have finally figured out what I want to do for the rest of my life and it has been about 5 years out of high school. I think that once you have an idea of what you want out of life everything works itself out. I have loved attending college for two main reasons. The first is that I know I am setting agood example for my son. I hope he sees that it is best to go to college right after high school so when he gets done with that and gets a job and family, he won't have to worry about supporting them. The second reason is that I feel like I am accomplishing something important. I will be contributing to society by doing something I enjoy doing.

Gabrielle

My college education thus far has been a whirlwind of opportunities, only a fraction of which I have capitalized on. It is a very scary thing to know that while one is partaking in so much: classes, clubs, guest lectures, art events, conversations, and establishing lasting relationships with peers and professors; there is still so much one is missing. That is what college is, a plethora of opportunities. Our current and future lives as students are set in motion by the decisions we make now, consciously or not, at times comprehending this fact is overwhelming and condemning. But at other times, and in the long run, there is nothing more exhilarating for we are living life itself, real and unlike we will ever again. College has been valuable thus far because of the various ways the system and experience compel me to live and think. Attending university as a youth is full of paradoxes and I am appreciating those paradoxes as they reveal themselves and come to fruition.

Ashley

Seattle University is designed towards making industrial men and woman who also value justice and community service. Attending this school not only builds the potential to obtain a better job after graduation but it also builds character within the men and women who choose to attend. Seattle University also strives to make leaders out of the students who attend. Leadership positions are offered in abundance and teach students the importants of responsibility and teamwork. The clubs here are all designed towards philanthrophy. Attending this school has taught me the importance of becoming a better citizen to maintain a social conscience so that all of humanity may prosper in a just yet industrious way. Seattle University has given me the opportunity to open my eyes to a word far beyond my own. I now know that there is a world far beyond any individual person that can be mended with a little bit of altruism and coalition. Seattle University has served as the lighthouse for anyone whose dreams are seemingly in the dark. This school is manufacturing the hope and faith that it takes to build a better tomorrow.

Mason

My college experience not only prepared me for a career where I may succeed, but provided a forum where I could completely explore my own views and beliefs. The classes I took were applicable and beneficial for a future career and they showed me what I was capable of, showing me how to believe in myself. I was able to set off to places abroad to learn more about the world and thrive in unfamiliar environments. The benefits I have recieved from my college education have more than outweighed the cost of attendance and I am extremely thankful for the opportunity to attend. I recieved my B.A. in International Studies with an emphasis in Spanish four years ago. Now I am fluent in two languages, hve over 3 years of international experience, and am working on becoming a medical doctor. I do not live my life based on any template and have created new opportunities for myself at every turn. I am proud of who I am, what I have accomplished, and can not wait to see where I end up next.

Selene

College provided me with the opportunity to grow as a person and mature into a more responsible adult. By offering a semester long study abroad program for me my freshman year I was able to better understand new cultures, improve my language skills and develop a stronger sense of personal independence and responsibility. Before I left for Mexico, Seattle University gave me the opportunity to study in one of the most artistic towns in the country which opened my horizons and broadened my perspective of the world. Additionally I have had instructors who are remarkably well qualified to teach the subjects that I am passionate about which not only motivated me to do well in school but also inspired me to continue learning and studying on my own time.

Dana

Being the first individual in my family to attend college has been very valuable and important to me. I have embraced college openly. I am enjoying the opportunity, as well as finding my niche to truly succeed. I have gained many things as a college student. College is a time students can truly become their own person and evolve into what they will be the rest of one’s life. I have become more independent and have taken on important responsibilities. I have always relied on my parents for support, but at college I have been able to learn how to succeed on my own. College has so far given me countless benefits, including time management skills, improved work ethics, and critical thinking abilities. A College education gives me a valuable base of knowledge that I can use to build my intelligence. It teaches someone to solve more of life’s problems, on their own. College has given me the opportunity to meet a very diverse crowd of people in the student body. It has been rewarding to meet and befriend many people as it has strengthened my personal growth. Thanks for your consideration for the Campus Discovery Scholarship.

Raina

I have yet to begin my college experience, but I hope that the people I meet and the education I recieve exceeds all my expectations.

Henry

I have received courage to face the future and take charge of my life from my college experience. When I first started attending Lone Star College, I had a hard time handling anything that had to do with my future. I was so afraid of making a mistake that would ruin my life I would sometimes refuse to discuss my plans for the future with my friends and family. When I could summon enough courage to do something I would never take charge in finishing it. Luckily, the professors I had would always ask the class what were our plans for ourselves. After we told them, they would research things for us and give us ideas on how to achieve these goals. It is thanks to their encouragement and good advice that I was able to overcome this fear and take control of my life. Attending this college has been valuable because with every class I have taken, I have learned a life lesson. One life lesson I received here allowed me to realize that I am the builder of my paradise. This knowledge is the most valuable to me because it is the largest motivating factor in my life.

Madelyn

The most important thing I have gotten from my college experience, other than a higher education, is learning how to be my own person. I had always been independent and thought of myself as a self-reliant person but it took me moving out of my comfort zone and into a new enviornment to understand that I was never really independent. I relied on my teachers to help me catch up, I relied on my parents for keeping me out of trouble and for my basic nessicities. College has taught me to depend on myself first instead of hoping someone else will fix the problem before I have to. It taught me to question what I believed in and why I believed in it to begin with. I was no longer just listening to others ideas and spitting them back out, I now formulate my own opinions on things. Basically college was the last stage of growing up. I no longer need to depend on others for success, I make my own success.

Marvin

Since I've been enrolled in college, I have experienced and accomplished many things. What I have gotten out of my college experience is that working hard leads to success. Considering my background, I never thought that I would be able to attend college. I really enjoy the experience because I've had the chance to meet unique people and made new friends who are devoted to their education. I rather much have friends who are determined to graduate from college because they are a motivation for me to do the same. Attending college is valuable because it increases an individual?s marketability. The way the economy is now, the majority of employer's prefer individuals with college degrees rather than high school diplomas. Once I receive my college degree, I will feel that I would be an inspiration to others who have had a troublesome past. Despite my shortcomings and mishaps, I didn't allow the negativity to through me off course. The experience and the value of attending college are for everyone, no matter what upbringing or troubled background a person has. I will remain determined and motivated to reach my goal of completing college and becoming successful.

Michele

Attaining my degree on line has been an invaluable experience. It gave me the chance to raise my family while my husband served in the military and attain my BS in Business without having to change schools, lose credits and take courses repeatedly. I have learned to be more successful in business situations in commmunicating through emails and be a beter business professional as a whole. I have used my training in school to better myself in all areas of my personal ife and strive for my goals I have set forth for myself professionally. I have decided to return to school to attain my undergraduate degree in Accounting and continue my professional growth while working full time.

Alex

For me, college has provided far more than a simple education. While most people, including myself, obtain the standdard knowldedge we've come to college for, I have gained far more. I have learned about myself in ways that I never thought I would, from my beliefs about people and God to the ways in which I live in the world. I have gained a new amount of freedom and extroversion with people of all walks of life, and see my new self develop every day. I do not think that without college I would have developed in the ways I have in such a short time. What occured in only a few months could have taken years, or neverhave occured at all. I believe that college is to thank for how I have found myself in new life.

Jillian

If was able to give advice to myself as a senior in high school I would encourage myself to get a job off-campus. As an out-of-state student it can be hard to connect with the community outside of my college campus. I currently have an on-campus job and live in an on-campus dorm, both of which have helped me to make better connections with my college community, but I am not as connected to the city of Seattle. A job off campus would encourage relationships with people who have a different perspective on the area I am now living in. I do not feel disconnected from Seattle because I have made a point of venturing out and finding local places while meeting new people from my community. However, I do think that having an off-campus job from the beginning of my freshman would have made that connection much easier. Knowing this as a high school senior I could have researched local businesses close to campus, but separate from the campus community.

Gracie

I would tell myself to ultimately not fear the unknown. What would make me fully understand this? I would have to bring my trumpet, good ol? Bessie, in the bigger picture. When I accidently play a note that is not on my sheet music, I assume that it was wrong. But, there is no such thing as a ?wrong? note. When you meet people from all different walks of life, whether you are in college or not, everyone has their own rhythm. When you are in college, it is ok to try and find your own rhythm; in the end, all of your experiences, varying from friends you have found or lost, late nights working on papers, conversations with professors, and so much more will be the foundation of your harmony. All of the notes you play connect s to the whole song. Don?t worry if you don?t know your major right away, or if you feel alone from time to time. Everything that you encounter, both the good and the bad, notes that may or not be on the sheet music, will flow and is meant to be part of your life journey.

Tessa

Transitioning into college is a big step in a person's life, it shapes a person and their future career. Before deciding on a school I believe that it is important to make three lists; list one should contain potential majors that the student may want to pursue, list twoshould contain specific values that are important to the student, and list three should contain important location qualities that they want the school to contain. The first list is important because a student should choose a school that has several of the student's potential majors available to them. Many students begin college set on a specific major and then within a year decide to change their major. I believe that making a list of values that are central to who the student is is also important because some schools are better qualified than others to help a student maintain these morals. Lastly, the location of the university is very important because a person cannot be happy unless they enjoy their surroundings. As you can see there are a lot of considerations that need to be taken into consideration before deciding on a university.

Emily

If I could go back, I would tell myself that transitioning from high school to college is going to be scary but immensely rewarding. Growing up is a big part of the transition and learning to depend more on yourself and your own thoughts and morals is key, especially in the beginning when you are just meeting people and feel alone. Calling home is not a sign of weakness, instead realize your parents still appreciate being needed and are willing to help or give advice with anything. You will meet people who want to be your friend for exactly who you are, even if you are not quite sure of who that may be. One of the most important things to remember would be that it is all right to not know exactly what you want to do, or where you want your life to end up, college is to help you figure that out. I would tell myself it is okay to let go of some things in the past but keep the memories; just because moving away and growing up may cause some friendships to dift apart, those friends were still important influences in my personal development.

Holly

I would advise myself to just do it. I am now a full time student with 4 children, and it is a struggle. Had I done it when I ws fresh out of high school it would have been much easier and I would already have a career, rahter than just getting into the schooling for the career. College is a wonderful experience and also very challenging. It is twice as rewarding as it is difficult. WIth a 3.95 GPA now, I know I could have done it then and been just as successful, if not more successful. Even being a young mom, I can show my children how much you can accomplish if you set your mind to it. It truly is a wonderful experience that you should not miss out on!

Betty

Being given the ability to go back in time would first of all break the laws of physics, but I would definitely do it if I was able to help myself by giving myself advice. The first thing I would tell myself is to take my education more seriously and stop worrying about my image, because in another 2 years I won't be talking to the same people I now call "friends." Time changes things so quickly, and we grow up and move on, faster than our minds and bodies have time to catch up. Another thing I would tell myself, is, "The most important thing is your future so you need to focus on that. You need to keep your mind on your goals, your dreams, and you need to always work your hardest and try your best so you can achieve that." Going back in time, I'd know what I know now, and that's that I let too much time go by without working towards something or being productive, I was too busy acknowledging things that are now meaningless to me. The one thing that stands the test of time is my education.