Sierra College Top Questions

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

Katelynn

Oh my! If I had the ability to go back in time and talk to my oh so naive high school self I would tell her that she needs to be more active in seeking out colleges and schalorships, beacause there are a lot of scholarship options to assist students with being able to afford school. I would encourage myself to really think about what career path I should choose, because I was not as concerned with it as I should have been. Now with the information that I know now I would definitely encourage myself to start the application processes sooner with the deadlines that are presented. All in all I woud definitely do a lot of things differently.

Amy

Do not ever feel ashamed about where you decide to educate yourself. You are one of the few who has chosen this path and you should feel confident and proud. It is not as important to consider what your school can do for your education; it is most important to consider what you can do for your education. You will achieve whatever you believe you can achieve, regardless of where you are. In high school, where you go to college is more important than how you educate yourself. Do not let yourself get sucked into the need to attend the most expensive and most prestigious school if that is not where you really want to go. Instead, consider every place and every person an opportunity: an opportunity for discovery, for friendship, for learning. You will get out of your education what you put into it and although that sounds like a lot of misdirected work, it is actually a lot of fun and very rewarding. You are the innovation of the future. So let yourself be comfortable and allow your mind to imagine. That is what college is truly for.

Miranda

If I could go back in time to talk to my high school senior self I would have told myself to be more excited. College is so much better than highschool. Almost every class you will take is only for one semester, making the year as a whole seem more fresh and productive. I would have told my past self that a two or three hour class in college feels like the one hour class in highschool but better. The professors actually want you to pass the class instead of failing and will therefore give out more challenging homework assingments that make the tests seem easy. I would definately tell mself to network with classmates so I have other people to got to for help with classes if I ever needed it. The last thing I would tell myself is to apply for more scholarships, college is expensive, even at a community college. After paying for classes, books and materials, you are quickly left with a very big hole in your wallet. Use your smarts to earn the money that people are giving away to people like you!

Nathan

I would tell my high school self to remain focus on the important things in life and not get carried away by all the meaningless things that life throws my way. In college, I feel like I'm in the real world, I'm an adult now, my actions have consequences yet from some time to time I still pretend like I live in my own little utopia. I'm getting older every day, which means I need to take life more seriously and not just have fun all day.

Chelsea

If I was allowed the opportunity to travel back in time to talk to myself as a senior in high school I would make sure to give advice on getting involved in school and making sure to take the opportunities offered to me, but I would not only give the 'traditional' college advice. The most important thing I wish I would have known when I was 17 is that, even though I am only one person, I have the power to change the world and I should go out in the world and do everything I possibly can to make it a better and more peaceful place for everone.

Andras

I learned English

Alex

If I could go back in time and speak to myself as a high school senior there are several things I would tell myself. The key to succeeding in college is three-fold: 1) always follow your dream, 2) never stop pushing yourself, and 3) relax. It is important to remember that these are the years that will define who you will be for the rest of your life. If you are worried now about what people will say or how you will be looked at you are handicapping yourself. The great people in history had dreams, and they were laughed at; what made them great, is they didn't care. Secondly, you are always capable of more things than you think you are. If you stop pushing you will never really find out how far you can go in life. Finally, whether you thrive under pressure or crack under pressure, if you don't find a way to relax while in college you will burn out. Always appropriate your time between the things you need to do and the things you want to do so that you never get too overwhelmed and you remain happy to be there.

Ryan

Dear Ryan, As you get ready to graduate, I have a few words of advice. First, apply early to both Texas A&M and OU. If you apply to A&M too late, despite your SAT and academic standing, they will not accept you. Choose wisely between the two schools. A&M has the Corps of Cadets and the tools to help you study. OU is a great school, too, but you will have to be self-motivated. Don't treat college like high school, or else you will find yourself failing miserably and end up back home at a junior college. Also, major in what YOU want, not what you think the Navy wants. Astrophysics may sound awesome, but face it: you are not a scientist. Stick to General Weber's advice and major in Business Administration like you want. After all, the Navy just wants to see any baccalaureate degree for a commission, they aren't terribly picky about the field of study--especially since you don't want to enter a high-scientific field. Finally, apply for student loans EARLY. It is a pain in the neck when you put it off too long. Sincerely, Future Ryan

Matthew

I would tell my high-school-senior-self to go away to school rather than stay local. Living in the dorms and experiencing dorm-life is something I feel that I truly missed out on. I feel like having a roommate and having to adapt to living with someone is a vital experience that new college students should seek. I lived at home for my first two years of college and I know that I would have met so many more people had I gone away and lived in a dorm. Granted, I saved a lot of money by living at home. However, the life experiences gained from experiencing living with other students and meeting new people far outweighs the extra costs necessary in order to live on campus. The advice I would give my past self and any other high school senior would be to go away and gain important life experiences which can be done by living in a dorm.

Nicolette

After some reflection I would advise myself that I should experment more with the classes provided for me at my high school in order to find my passion, if I had the opportunity to go back in time and guide myself. College is expensive and the price for books and materials almost seems exorbitant. To be undecided and in a experimental mood as a college student is borderline wasteful. Following a plan and experimenting with classes that are linked with a desired field can save a student's time, money, and wasted emotion. Plus, switching a major from undecided to something definite can mismanage the student's process to success. Being unclear about the future is very costly. I wish I would have known that and experimented in high school.

Chassity

If I had the oppertunity to go back in time I would sit down and have a serious talk with myself rearding my future and what life on my own is like. I would make sure I focused on my school and career goals and to make sure I didnt get sucked in with the money I was able to make without a education becuase that money doesnt last and as the economy changes I would need an education. I would also tell myself not to get sucked in to relationships and people that did not support my desire to go to school and earn the degree I always wanted. I would tell myself to wake up and go to school regardless of how I felt and make sure to treat school like a career and a full time job versus being a waste of time. I would tell myself to imagine being 28 with a job I hate attemping to go back to school to earn a degree... I would tell myself to invision the future I want not the futue that I regretted.

Philip

The first thing I would say to myself would have to be, "Make sure you get involved in extracurricular activities." The reason being that, while I attended school in Hawai'i, I was a little intimidated and nervous, so I did not become involved in much more than my academics. This turned out to be a mistake. I became dissatisfied, irritable, and slightly depressed as a result of limited human contact, and my academics suffered accordingly. Upon returning to California, I immideately began contacting people and participating in activities, and I have found that this makes me more relaxed, in better shape (both physically and mentally), and an overall happier individual. As a result, my capacity for learning has increased tenfold, and my academic prowess has increased greatly; even advancing to a point in which I was able to achieve the President's List Award for this last semester. I would also inform myself of what learning techniques work best for me, as I had to learn them throughout my first year, and I could have saved myself much hastle if I had known what works best for me beforehand.

Chelsea

I would tell myself to reavaluate my personal relationships and my reasoning for wanting to attend college. Also, to rethink the major I think I am wanting to persue and the one I really want to persue, but am afraid to do so. I would also tell myself to organize my finances better and to be a little bit more responsible in that area. Most of all, please don't give up on your dreams, because anything is possible!

Tyler

If I could talk to my self back in time as a senior I would tell myself that my goals and dreams are only limited to my determination and self motivation and confidence in myself. I would tell myself to forget about being lazy and putting things of, to work hard and to fulfill my dreams and aspirations. I would also tell myself that even though the process will be hard the reward will be worth the effort.

Emily

Don't give up! Your job is not that hard, you can go to school full time. School is more important. You know you have a dream so go get it and don't let anything stop you. Also remember to sell back your books durring finals week to get back the most money and the earlier you go the better your parking space will be.

Daniel

Assuming I could go back in time, I would tell myself that friends and family are the things that will get you through life. I would tell myself to: Apologize to those I have hurt, and learn to forgive those who have hurt me. Realize all my potential, and teach others to do the same. Endure all of life?s tests, and achieve all life?s goals. Protect the ones I love, and learn to love the rest.

Jenipher

I would go back and tell myself to not slack off on the classes that might seem difficult. Time is limited and take advantage of the rescources left at school. Also just focus on school and avoid intimate relationships till after I earned a degree. I also would give myself the advice to take advantage of the tutoring center anytime I felt I could not handle a class. The classes that are offered at Sierra college are great but I would tell myself to try out other colleges to prusue a better selection of classes. I would also tell myself to save some money because the economy is making things at the school more expensive(such as books) with each progressing year. Just to make things reasonable I would tell myself school is nothing more than an advanced high school where I make the right and wrong choices; and the teachers are not the ones to depend on to learn. For telling myself something worthy I would say I need to look to myself for making the right choices for my future, and not wait for my future to make my choices for me.

Thaddius

If I could travel in time to advise myself on the transition to college life I would tell myself, "LIVE UP TO YOUR POTENTIAL WHILE STILL IN HIGHSCHOOL! Too many college students, including your current friends, will waste their time trying to find themselves and discover their interests in the first few years of college rather than hitting the ground running. During their many years of self-discovery they will neglect studies, party, chase girls, and generally waste time that they could have spent studying, travelling, and on worth-while hobbies. If you, Thad, learn to use your time wisely and study hard now you will go into your freshman year of college with an advantage over most other students. To help you understand how many opportunities you have in this country you need to travel. Go to El Salvador and Mexico, see how those people live and how few their open doors are. Go to Europe and open your mind to the great acheivements of men before you, men who lived up to their potential. Take pictures and keep a journal so that you can remember why it is you want to succeed."

Kevin

If I could go back to my final year in high school I would tell myself many things. Mostly would be to get a job and save up for classes and books. Also, would be to make sure you are prepared when leaving high school for college by studying and knowing the material before you leave ANY class.

Kalani

I would tell myself to listen more to my elders because I realize they know more than I have given my parents, and relatives? credit. Our elders have more wisdom than I had given them credit. If I would have listened I would have not made so many mistakes. They are not old and no nothing. Our elders deserve respect and that is what I do now. I listen more and do less talking. I would tell myself that iI do not know everything. I still don't at the age of nineteen. I am growing still. I thank my parents for putting up with me when I was in High school.

Jen

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a senior in high school I wouldn't have made any changes. All of the goals and priorities in high school that I had set for myself have been met. I took the long nights of studying day by day, and kept up with my grades by taking baby steps. I volunteered my time to be the student athletic trainer and manager for the high school wrestling team, and helped coached a middle school volleyball team. My senior, and junior, year I took an R.O.P. sports medicine class. This program has, and will, greatly help me in changing my passions in to my profession. My senior year was a year of no regrets and great memories.

marika

Assuming I could go back in time and talk to myself as a senior in high school, I would congratulate myself on where I was and on what I will do. Throughout high school I suffered with a chronic illness. It was not easy to make it to all of my classes, and at one point had to drop some. However, I did not give up. I pushed through and despite the thoughts of others, am now attending college full time. I would tell my "senior self" to keep going, that all the work is worth it. I would tell mself to keep going in the direction I am, and to keep believing in myself. With the help of counselors and colleges like Sierra College, I can and am getting a good, solid education which will help me in the future. I was, I am, a strong woman and education only makes me stronger!

Jennifer

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, knowing what I actually realized about college I would say: College is alot different from high school and you have to take everything seriously. It is alot harder than high school and making the transition from high school to college is probably the hardest part. You have to be confident and not afraid to speak up. In high school teachers didn't really care when you said you do not want to speak in front of the class, and I was one of those people, I hated talking in front of the class. When I started college the teachers there didn't take no for an answer, you do what they say. The advice I would give myself as a "high school senior" is to take things more seriously and actually prepare myself for things ahead of time instead of waiting for the last minute to do everything. College is not a big party, like most teens think, college is your future.

Jessi

Looking back now, i wish i would have researched ALL my options before making my final college plans. There may have been some opportunities that i passed up that would have really benefited me now. But in the end, one does not have to have all the answers in high school. College is all about finding yourself and figuring out your future. Expect the unexpected, and stay strong and focused. Keep striving for what makes you happy and you will suceed.

Layne

Don't sweat the small stuff. Don't feel pressured to attend college immediately, much can be learned from the work-force. When an opportunity presents itself, grasp it. Much will change in your life, but it will be an amazing and gratifying journey. You have no idea what is in store for you. Smile.

Sean

I would tell myself not to take college so easy it is a huge step between high school. I would also tell myself to meet a consuelor more so i could set up a better plan for my degree and not waste so much time on unesscary classes.

Savannah

I would tell myself to get rid of the guy because he is holding me back and hurting me. Then I would tell myself to work harder and get on track with scholarships. Keep my head up and do not let high school drama knock me down. Get started with my life earlier so it did not hit me as hard and live my life. Actually be happy with where I am going and who I am. Self- esteem helps loads when transitioning.

George

If I could go back in time and give myself some advice about my future, I would tell myself to pursue what I really love. While i have figured out that I should study my passion, I wish I would've realized it earlier. When choosing a course of study, many people are concerned about practicality as opposed to passion. Because of this, they often choose something that they are not truly dedicated to or do not love; they go for a field or job that is considered "stable." The fact of the matter is, however, that no matter what you love, there is always an opportunity for you. I wish I would have began studying music earlier in my college career; I would have enjoyed school much more. I am glad that I made the change now, and I find myself more deeply interested in going to school and continuing my education. If you do what you love you'll never have to work a day in your life, and I now truly understand the relevance of that statement in my life.

Brianna

If I could go back in time to when I was a high school senior and tell myself what I know now about college and making the transition, I would tell myself that there is no shame in going to a junior college and that the classroom enviornment is very welcoming. At my high school, students were pressured to go to a four year university right out of high school and were told that it was best if that school was away from home. I would also tell myself that the classes are very interesting, that I would already know many people in those classes, that the transition wouldn't be as hard as I thought it would be, and that on top of all of this I would still get good grades and have a great college experience. I would also point out that my time at a four year university (especially in this time of decreased class offerings) would be made easier by having all of my general education classes already done, and that I would save a huge amount of money. This is what I would say if I could go back.

Randi

I would tell myself that I need to make sure to not only use the time in the classroom wisely, but I also need to take time outside of the classroom to study. I must study beyond what the professor's have discussed during class and to set up meetings with my professors to discuss what I should study more in depth. I would also tell myself that there are many resources when I'm in need of assistance, so don't be afraid to use them!

Jessica

I would have much to say to my highschool self if ever given the opportunity to do so. I would, first and foremost, warn myself about the importance of deadlines and good work ethic. Applications must be turned in at least on time, if not as early as possible before the deadline. I would tell myself not to hesitate to go see a counselor about possible academic pathways, and remind myself that an academic counselor can mean the difference between a goal reached and a goal unfulfilled. I would work to encourage myself, and to reinforce my ambitions. I would remind myself that many people are not 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} sure of what they want to do when they graduate highschool, but that immersing myself in an academic atmosphere and trying different things will greatly help to make up my mind regarding my future career. Lastly, I would warn myself against the dangers of taking time off between highschool and college, as many people who do so never return to the college track.

Kimberly

Dear Kim as a High School Senior, I know your last year of high school was a fun filled year with little stress and little work. However, get ready for 4 years of long study hours and working hard to keep that GPA up. When you get into college you realize how important taking the time to really study is. You realize how important it is to read ahead in your textbook and to always pay close attention in class. You learn to study at every break you have and don't take any time for granted. Start building these habits and ideas into your life now as a high school senior. It will make that transition into college so much eaiser. Save every penny you can. College is expensive and you really don't realize the vaule of a dollar until you see your bank account at zero. Work harder than you ever had, that work will pay off with scholarships someday. College is tough but if you stick it out and do your best you will reach the end of that long road ahead. Sincerly, Kim as College student

Samantha

If I were to go back in time and talk to my high school senior self I would tell her to apply for as many scholarships my time allowed for. College may look like a fun and glamourous lifestlye, but glamour is not cheap. Even a community college has a price. From tuition, registration and book fees to parking passes, lunch and a night out with friends, school costs a lot of money. Money that an 18 year old girl with a car payment, phone bill and rent will not be able to come up with, without the assistance of a scholarship, financial aid, student loan, or Cal Grant. One other piece of advice I would give myself is to not stress over college applications and enjoy my senior year as much as possible. Colleges are going to be around forever but you only get a senior year once. Besides, the easiest way to go is junior college. An easy online application and you're in. Take 30 minutes to apply and go on enjoying the best and most exciting year of your high school career.

Lauren

As a high school senior, I was in a rush to get out of high school. It was not that I had a bad experience, but because I felt that I was ready to move on and find my way in the world. I was a part of student council, I was a Varsity cheerleader, I was dating the football star and I even was taking the right classes to graduate, but I was ready to take the big step. If I could go back and talk to myself as a senior, I would have told myself to enjoy the time that I had in high school. I took for granted all the help I recieved from my parents that I dont recieve any longer. I would also tell myself to save my money, be careful who I spent my time with in college, and that my future is the most important goal. I would have told myself that I should stay true to my own goals and values even while exposed to other's goals and values. Most importantly, I would have reminded myself to remain true to myself. Thats the best advice I ever recieved.

Frances

College is a hard transition from High School. As an adult, you are going to determine how much this period in your life is going to help or hinder your future success, so don't waste it. The most important thing you can do is make goals for yourself and decide on what is important to you. Focus on what you want for your future and beleive in yourself because you can do anything! College is all about you. You need to learn what you can handle and what your specific needs are. You will have to adjust to college classes and figure out how many units you can handle. You will be expected to work hard, and what you put in will be what you get, or your resulting grades You also need to know how to take care of yourself and identify your individual needs. Don't hesitate to ask for help. Seek out what you need and you will get it. Many people will be there for reasons other than to learn, but don't get distracted from why you are there. Don't be afraid of failing. There is more risk in not trying than failing.

Heather

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior with the knowledge I have now, the best advice I could give myself would be to come prepared. I would tell my past self make sure to look into what schools you would like to transfer to and look into the general requirements needed for those schools. If you attend a Junior College before a University not all courses are transferable, and not knowing which transfer may cause you to have to retake some courses. I would also tell myself that taking general education classes at a Junior college can be cheaper and easier. Taking a variety of courses at a Junior College can also help you when deciding what to major in. I would also advise my past self that it is easy to fall behind. It can seem harmless to miss a few classes to hang out with new friends, but falling behind in a class can happen quickly. College is a lot of fun but you need to be sure to set aside time to study and do homework.

Jordan

The advice I would give myself as a senior in high school while making the transition to college would be, "Focus. Study. Relax." Focusing is a key aspect in that you have so much more freedom in college and your work and grades are strictly based upon your motivation to complete work. In the beginning, I was so overwhelmed with the differences in college that I lost focus several times, and that affected me greatly. Studying needs to be a most practiced ritual as you cannot just expect to pass a test or surprise quiz off of things you read through once. When you study and begin to remember, it will serve you later down the road; during finals in the same class, in an advancing class, and later towards a career. Relaxing is vital in that a student will get stressed no matter what, and small breaks are needed in between homework. Whether it is taking a bubble bath to sooth your nerves or going to a party, a student needs to relax in whichever way suites them. Strictly school and no play only ticks a toll on the student and holds them back from their true potential.

Emily

Honestly, I would tell myself to choose my classes wisely. I would inform my past self to find my passion and pursue it indefinitely. As a result, I would take only the classes which pertain to my major. This would save me time and energy by not taking an unnecessary class. I know this answer is simple and short, but it is the truth; and I believe that truth is the single most significant and powerful characteristic held in Homo sapiens.

Brett

Knowledge is one of the most valuable things in this world. All that any person needs to do to gain knowledge is to listen with an open mind. To be able to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior would give me some essential advice that I wish I would have had. First, I would tell myself to reach for the stars and apply for colleges that seem out of reach. To apply and be rejected is more gratifying than not applying at all. Instead of doing this, I settled for junior college and took the easy way out by skipping the application process. Little did I know, the hardest task of applying to four year universities is the transfer process. As a senior, I would advise myself to apply for all of the colleges I possibly could. Another tip that I would give myself would be to start the research process much earlier. Research financial aid, scholarships, and different schools as early as possible for the greatest fighting chance. Knowing my plan of attack and staying organized would have helped me immensely. College is not easy, so being prepared is the key.

Kenji

I would say take the classes one by one. Dont get overwhelmed and lazy. Keep up with work and try. Never give up.

Kaitlyn

I would tell myself to never give up. There will be times when you want to but hold on strong and keep pushing forward. I would also tell myself to be more prepared for challenges. If I could go back I would have applied for more scholarships but since I was not prepared most of the financial opportunities slipped by me. I would also tell myself to study, study, study. While in college I have been able to maintain a 3.5 GPA but my studying habits could be improved. I would tell myself to procrastinate less and prepare more. Also to enjoy college life by interacting in more campus activities and engaging in more group functions. I think the last thing I would tell myself is to enjoy college even though it may seem like the worst thing in the world at times. College passes by too quickly and if you don't enjoy it, you'll miss out on some great memories.

Jasmine

High school seems to be more about what you do than what you know. At that point you could easily get by learning nothing, but doing all of the work. In college it is the exact opposite. Most of the time you will not have much work, but you need to know your stuff. Start learning how to study now, because it will really help in the long run.

Alycia

I would tell myself to keep working hard. Achieving the best you can in high school is a great step towards college and makes the transition much easier. I would also tell myself not to fear. College and all the hard work and long hours of studying involved can seem daunting but it's worth it. College is a wonderful experience. It helps you to discover who you are and what you are capable of and shapes you into a better person. College helps understand the world better. If you put in the effort you will always get out what you deserve. Enjoy the time you have there and the people that you meet, because it will go faster than you expect.

Jennifer

Going back to talk to my senior self now would be interesting, and an opportunity I would likely pass on because I wouldn't change any of those lessons that I learned, experiences I've had, or who I've become since then. But on the off chance that I did, I would smack myself upside the head and tell myself, "Pull it together! Take that class you should take, even though you don't want to and don't have to! It will open up more opportunities for you and make things go by easier and faster! And don't be discouraged if it feels like things haven't changed much, that it's the same old thing, and not at all like you were especting it to be. It takes some looking, but once you find it, you will see that everything is different there. And don't be afraid to take the opportunities to go out and have fun. Make new friends and keep in contact with them, it makes it all easier and worthwhile. And most of all, be prepared to study harder than ever before!"

Sofiya

These past two years of college have been quite a challenge. I do not regret it one bit, but there are definitely some things I would do different if I had the knowledge I have now back when I was a high school senior. I worked so hard my first three years in high school that when it came to senior year I felt I needed to reward myself by taking it easy. All those years of hard work and discipline and then one big break brought me to a rude awakening when I came to college. I had to retrain myself and work extra hard to get back into the disciplined, hardworking mentality. If I kept at it with full commitment, it would have made such a difference. Maybe even the opportunity to explore more and get a step closer to choosing a major. Another thing I would tell myself then, not to underestimate or devalue my worth or brains. I know I?m intelligent, but sometimes I felt I couldn?t fulfill my full potential because it would intimidate some of my friends. When really it could have inspired them.

cristalle

I would tell myself to take my future seriously and not squander the opportunity to learn. I would also advise that if I did not feel ready to attend school that I should wait as deciding what to study and pursue as a career can and most likely will change as maturity develops.

aubrey

I would tell myself that nobody is too smart to attend a community college. I shied away from attending a community college because everyone told me that my grades were too high, and that my intellgence would be wasted on a community college. So I attended a State University right after I graduated. However, I did not know what I wanted to do with my life. I never thought about it during high school, all I thought about was going to college. Not what I would do there, just that I would go. So I would tell myself to really think about it and if I don't know; go to a community college. Take lots of introductory classes and see what interests me. I am sorry that I havewasted so much time going from a university to a community college and back because I did not know what I wanted to major in. I should have thought about that hard in high school.

Dustin

I would remind myself how close I already am to a fantastic future and career; that endless eye opening experiences and opportunities are just ahead of me. Just four more years of school (and they will fly by at warp speed). If you approach college with a positive perspective, the learning possibilities will be endless.

Nancy

Be prepared to focus on your college classes and really get the most out of them. Don't allow yourself to get distracted by all of the other things going on in life to the point where your studies suffer - there will be plenty of time to do some of those things later. You're investing in your future when you take your college classes, make it a wise investment. If you change your major, it's okay. Taking a sampling of classes in different majors while you're taking your general education classes is a great way to figure out what it is that you really want to do!

Veronica

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would recommend myself to take Chemistry in high school. It is extremely hard for me to schedule this course into my semesters, and it would have been much easier to have already experienced Chemistry. I would also tell myself to take some time and think about a major rather than spending extra semesters in college trying to figure it out. The hardest part about transitioning into a college was the commute. I would tell myself to be prepared to wake up extra early to allow time for traffic and time to find a parking space. I would also tell myself not to buy my textbooks brand new from the campus bookstore since they are at least twice as expensive as online. If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to apply for as many scholarships as possible. College is not cheap, and scholarships are hard to come by, therefore I would tell myself to apply for every single one I found.