Sonoma State University Top Questions

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

Nicole

If I could go back in time and tell highschool senior self anything, it would be to take college seriously from the start, put in the extra effort, and take a few extra units each semester. It would be worth the extra work to get done earlier and start in my chosen career. I would also tell myself to be more involved in campus life, that such a community is hard to come by and to enjoy it while I'm young and have that opportunity. I would emphasize the importance of internships. Experience is invaluable as well as networking I should have started much earlier. The relationships you make in college can be so rewarding not only on a personal level but also a professional level. Most importantly I would tell my past self that college is a great experience and to be so grateful for the opportunity to go. Instead of dreading class and exams remind myself that not everyone is lucky enough to go to college. I would tell myself that I am capable of anything and towards the end of my college career I would be raising my beautiful daughter and would graduate with honors.

samantha

Dear Samantha, Don't be so shy! Go out into the world and research what is out there. Explore different career options and pay attention to your surroundings because you never know what you'll discover next or who you will meet. You already know you love working with children so go and intern or volunteer at a school! Talk to everyone you meet at the school site and inquire about their position there. You may find out about a potential role or career choice you did not know previously existed. Study diligently and take your work seriously. I know your mind is focused on boys and what outfit you are going to wear for the week, but trust me, going to class and doing your work well will get you further in life. Also, cherish your time with your friends and family, but do not be afraid of making new ones! You just might meet your best friend in college. So keep moving forward and always strive to be a better you. I wish you the best of luck!

Monica

My senior year was a struggle for me because I felt I was on my own when it came to applying to college and scholarships and I felt. I was determined to study in San Diego State because I had fallen in love with the school, however I was limited in money since I am the one paying for all of my expenses, mainly which include school. It came to the point when I thought my community college wouldn't be an option. As I reflect on all the actions I made then and how far I have come now the advice I would give myself would be to use my resources to help me find more information about college and scholarships, but most importantly to believe in myself. Though I didn't go to my dream college I have made the best out of the opportunity I got here. It's not about the college its about what you make of it, which I learned through experience in my college life. Thanks to my additute, I have gained so much experience and accomplished goals I never thought possible because of limited money and guidence. Si se puede!

Ella

Well if you have heard the expression take of your cool jacket I would recommend following it. I have always disliked the saying being a shy person myself, however as soon as I started putting myself out there and joining clubs and organizations my college career became twice as fun. You get one chance to do the college experience so take advantage of all of the opportunities provided to you! Study abroad (I did it was amazing), join all the clubs you are interested in, play intramurals, go use the help centers they are amazing and hardly anyone goes. Just taking in the things around you goes a long way in making you part of the campus and creating memories that will last a lifetime. It is also about who you are as an individual when you are choosing a college. Yes the schooling is important but it is what you want from it. Big school or small school? Sports or no sports? These are things I wish I had thought about more because sometimes I feel like I missed out on that big school feel I had sort of wanted. But no matter where you choose have no regrets!

Viridiana

If I was able to go back in time and talk to my self. I will advice my self to focus take very serious the English as a Second Language classes because they are the base for good grammar. Also, I will tell my self to start working on general education along with the classes for a certificate. I will tell my self to take 15 units instead of 12, so I could transfer to Sonoma State in less time.

Maria

If I had the opportunity to talk to my high school self I would first address the awful hair style choice. Secondly, I would advise myself to take every opportunity that I was presented with. While you may not be comfortable with change, the moments that you are out of your comfort zone are the moments of undeniable growth. Don't assume that every student you meet along the way has a "life plan". It is more likely than not that each student is on a convoluted path to finding their true passion and drive. Whether it be through taking countless random classes or a million career surveys, each student should take their time to enjoy the experience that college has to offer. I was fortunate enough to find my passion early and life and pursue it whole heartedly. I was able to graduate in 2 and a half years rather than 4 and am now in pursuit of a nursing career. While I had a "speedy" college experience I don't regret my choice. I have a goal and intend on acheiving it. In short, I would advise any college student to find their passion and go after it.

Crystal

Don't stress so much about choosing the "right" major! I spent so much time trying to figure out what I wanted to do with my life that I wasn't able to enjoy my senior year. I eventually decided that I would go to community college to take some more thinking time, and there I was able to figure out my interests. Community college is NOT a place for failures and drop-outs; it is a local school for students who have extenuating circumstances and a perfectly valid route to higher education. Just because all of your friends were at universities does not mean that you're any less of a success than they are. You took the financially responsible route and were able to decide on a career before wasting thousands of dollars on general education classes. Do what's right for you, not what other people think is right for you.

Amanda

I would tell my high school self a few things, including, enjoy the time you have with your friends and family more, enjoy the beautiful place that you get to call home, and try harder in classes because not trying isn't smart. I was always one that hated where I lived and wanted to get out so bad. I would say things like "I can't wait until college to get out of here, I don't care about who I am leaving." Now that I am gone, I realize my friends are going to be my friends for life, they are my people. I also realize just how beautiful my hometown is. I still do not want to live there again, but at least I can admire it's beauty. As for trying in school, I didn't try at all and I didn't realize I wasn't really applying myself. If I applied myself I think I could have gotten very good grades and I just would like the satisfaction to myself of knowing that I did my best.

Gladys

They advice that I will give my self will be that don't procastionate in homework and get involved in the community and and clubs in school

Ashley

I would tell myself to have a little bit more fun my senior year, but at the same time I should have focused more on studying for the AP Macroeconomics test which was at the end of the year.

Araceli

If I was a high school senior and had the chance to talk to myself, I would say to choose a school further away from home so that I can become independent and spread my wings and fly. My experience as a college student might have been different, and possibly more fun, socially.

Pamla

I would have stayed in college and become a teacher right after high school.

Megan

Assuming I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would emphasize being more fiscally responsible. For some people, money is a deciding factor when it comes to figuring out how one is going to pay for a college education. Everyone in America should know by now that college is not cheap, and if you can save money...DO IT! I have never been an impulsive spender, but I definitely could have saved money that I did not. If I would have known I would be where I am today, not receiving financial assistance from my father, I would have strongly encouraged saving money whenever possible. I played soccer all throughout high school year-round; therefore, I never really had a significant amount of time to dedicate to a job. My parents are divorced; I receive some financial help from my mom, but my dad was always the one telling me not to worry about money because he would make up for it. I learned a valuable lesson; to never depend on anyone else to support me.

Aeryelle

College has taught me a lot about independence and responsibility that I wouldn't have gotten if I stayed at home as opposed to living on campus. Living in dorms with other students has showed me that I am in charge of the next move I make. I wake up when I want to, and decide if I go to class or not, what to do tomorrow, etc. I don't have my parents there to make those everyday decisions for me, and I am ok with that because I needed to learn that on my own. Doing little things on my own like doing my own laundry and making my own dinner has also made me respect my parents so much more with everything they have done for me. College is not only about learning in class, but out of class as well.

Kasey

College has allowed me to find what truly interests me, and given me the chance to grow into a more complete person. On top of all of the scholastic achievements and assorted knowledge (and some trivia, too) I've learned more about myself and how I best function and fit into society. I am now more confident in my ability to apply for, and get, a job I will truly love, and that, in my opinion, makes all the papers, homework, and the inevitable all-nighters so very worth it.

Cassie

My name is Cassie Tsolis and I am in my second year at Sonoma State. My experience has continued to grow as I have become more involved with clubs on campus and community service events. This year I have become part of the leadership team for the Christian fellowship on campus and I have also continued to tutor the nearby elementary students with the program known as Study Buddies. These are just some of the various opportunities and ways Sonoma has enabled me to give back to our community on campus and within the community of Rohnert Park. As an EOP, Educational Opportunity Program, student I have found so much support and encouragement with my EOP advisors and services the program provides for first generation students and low income students. I have become much more driven to continue in my education because of the various opportunities Sonoma has provided me with that show me what I am passionate about. With a degree in psychology, my goal is to become a college counselor for low income students, just like me.

Than

I have learned that it is very important to further my education by attending college. There are many different avenues that you may choose to go down once you go to college and that excites me. You grow up thinking you want to be one thing but when a course advisor throws a book on the table and says take a look, new doors open. I believe that this has been valuable to me because when I entered college, I did it only because my mother asked me to do it for her. I never really wanted to attend but now I am very glad I chose to go. I have recieved many life long lessons from my college experience such as the importance of time management, note taking, and the ability to plan out my weeks to get done everything I need to get done. I believe that by furthering my education, I will be a better person both physically and mentally and this make me believe in a brighter future for not just myself but future generations that I will be a part of.

Khalaf

Attending American River college is the first step towards achieving my dream of becoming an electrical engineer. After completing my general education requirements, I plan to transfer to the University of California, Davis, where I will earn my Bachelor of Science degree. I chose this college because I am returning to school after a long break, and community college seemed like the best place to start my education. Here, I don't feel the pressure or competitiveness that University students have to go through. Unlike many university classes, community colleges like this one have smaller class sizes. So, the students are able to talk to their professors more often and have a better chance of finding mentors and building relationships that could help them in their future careers.

Marisela

College allows you to get out of your comfort zone and meet people from different places and different walks of life. Not only that, I feel that it makes people more open minded and independent.

Gloria

I have gotten experience out of my experience. In that experience, I have learned to be more patient,tolerant, and less of a procrastinator. College has opened my mind to a range of topics ranging from dinosaurs to women's rights. This has helped me be more of an open minded person with a lot more common sense. This is all valuable because this all going to help me in the longrun. The world is ever-changing and to be able to cope with new conflicts and to be able to resolve them , the world needs people that are ready and prepared to face unprecendented challenges.

Ashley

This college experience has tought me sever aspects of the culinary industry already. Learning how to figure out food cost wast , how much business spends on food , and how the resturants get there menu prices has tought me to be wise with money, and if I ever wanted to work in the purchasing side of the business i could. Its definately hard work and worth it at the same time. I think attending this school is valuable to me because I want to better my self and not work dead end jobs the rest of my life. I want to show my family and friends that it is possible to go to school and become what you have always dreamed of.

Matthias

My college experience has been one of the most rewarding and difficult experiences of my life. From winning a National Championship on our Club Volleyball team, to teaching courses for freshmen and their transition from high school, I've really tried to take the most I can from the University and what it has to offer. With Sonoma State being a small school, sometimes it's hard for people to get the "true" college experience like one would normally expect. I personally didn't know what I wanted out of my college experience before coming, and I believe I found out who I was, who I want to be, and found the confidence in myself to get what I want to get in any situation. The valuable things I've learned from Sonoma may not have been in the classroom, or found in a fraternity house (since we don't have them), but they're from the things I've done on my own to shape my college experience and to look forward to new experiences in graduate school.

Twaniece

What i am getting out of my college experience is plenty of knowledge that will carry me on into the future. It gives me satisfaction to know that i will be the only one in my family to go to college or to even graduate high school. Attending college is a big step for me or even for this family so the next generation can follow along in my footsteps to better themselves and live a better life then the generation before them. So, when you ask me what i will get out of my college experience i feel like making this step can change the world and also make people proud of the things i will achieve.

Aeisha

I have graduated with an Assocaites Degree in Criminal Justice. I also learned how to communicate on a better level, also i learned how to write better. I have established friendships that will most likely last long. I have enjoyed the first 2 years of my college experience and i cannot wait to go further. Attending college has been so valuable because this will definatley help me in the future. I have a four year old son to take care of and i think by furthering my education, my son and i will highly appreciate my decision to go back to school and better myself.

Bethany

I have earned my bachelor's degree in psychology. Given the emphasis on business and humanistic approaches, I feel confident in my decision to pursue my Master's Degree in Organizational Development this Fall of 2010. It has been valuable for me to attend SSU because so many of the faculty encouraged me to develop my ideas, not to mention the research data base full of articles on a vast array of subjects! After attending college, I am extremely motivated to continue my education, more committed than ever to instill values of higher learning into my daughter, and am convinced that hard work really does pay off. I am excited to continue my education here at SSU with high hopes of really putting to the test my skills and talents.

Janine

As a first generation college student, education has always been extremely important to me. I am planning on becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) when I finish school and all of the education I have received so far has brought me closer to my goals. I have also met some great people and faculty that have offered me support and encouragement that are typically received from one's family. Earning my Associate's degree made me very proud of myself and that much more motivated to continue. I am excited to be starting Sonoma State and learning about what this school has to offer.

Maira

I have gotten many things out of my college experience. I have gained an organization that I'm part of; Lambda Theta Nu Sorority Inocorporated. Its like I have two families. They are my second family whom I get motivated to be here. I am attending school because I want to succeed in life. I have gained a lot of time where before I didn't do much. I see myself getting out more. My time is precious now that I am in college. I have gained a lot of knowledge of what I want to get out with my career. It has been valuable to attend because college makes you know what amazing things you can do in your life. Its not all about the money, its also about doing what you want to do in your life and working with something that you love.

Courtney

If I could go back in time and speak to myself as a high school senior I would remind myself that hard work and dedication are the keys to obtaining an education. I would inform myself that hard work and dedication in academics is important however those two characteristics are needed in other aspects of transitioning to college and successfully completing the college experience. I was unable to enroll for the spring 2010 semester because I did not work hard to find other means to pay for my education and now I have to involuntarily take a semester off of school because of that lack of determination in that aspect of my college career. I would also tell myself to use those characteristics in extra-curricular activities and community service because my persistence in those areas allowed me to network with other student and craft a place for myself in my school community as a leader. I would share this secret with my high school self because this information is often generalized and intelligent active students like I fall victim to the life lessons we wish someone would have shared.

Devin

Hello anxiously-awaiting-the-start-of-college-high-school-student! Please listen to what I have to say. College may seem like mountain of intimidation with its steep unconquerable slopes, but do not be afraid! Do not hold back from applying to the school of your dreams because you do not think you are good enough. Do not be afraid to move away from home and leave your family and friends behind. Immerse yourself into this exciting new chapter of your life you are about to enter! Read the fine print on every e-mail that comes your way from the college of your dreams, that size 9 point font will get you! Keep a calender of important dates to remember, but really you must remember that you are entering a new time in your life and these changes you are about to face are changes many students before you have surmounted!

Ma

I would tell myself to study harder because college is much harder than high school work. Also, be more open to new people and friends because everyone is going through the same experience. Although, the food is difficult, you should be more mindful of your spending habits. Do not work on schoolwork and essays the very last minute becuase it will take more time to write and edit than it did in high school. You will have more time to yourself because you can choose what classes you want and when to take them, so schedule wisely. Do not stress over how many units you have or do not have because there will be more chances to add classes and you will have more priority in the coming years to pick classes. This dorm is not only yours, it belongs to everybody else; so do not take on all of the responsibility of the suite. Do not stress too much over grades and school work; learn to have fun.

Eric

If I could talk to myself in high school I would say ?Eric, success is attainable in any field, don?t sell yourself short. The potential exists inside of you, develop it and dream big.? I have severe A.D.H.D. and Dyslexia so I never thought I would be able to succeed in higher education. I was always told that everyone has talents, but I never felt that I was good at anything and assumed a low-income future. My mother made me take college classes in business and economics, which I ended up acing. I then realized that I did have my talents and education was an obtainable goal. This gave birth to a growing intensity in my study patterns and work ethic. I knew it would take more than business and econ classes to graduate, so I brought my spelling, reading, handwriting, and mental focus to center stage and worked hard to improve upon them. My work ethic now allows me to get A?s in everything, regardless of subject matter. I would inform myself that school is not a test of intelligence in which only the smartest survive, but it is a test of determination.

Wendy

Now that I know how much your highschool education matters, I would tell myself to participate a little more. It is important if you want to do well in life and in college that you have the skills and basics from those highschool years. They build on eachother and teach you more then just information. They teach you how to get along with people even when you might not want to, conflict management, study skills, career goals, how to remember information, and how to pick classes that will benifit your goals. I wish I spent more time learning in highschool and less time fighting the fact that I had to be there. Since Im going into a health science I could really have used that extra time to learn about these things and also about myself. I feel like Im behind in all the basics of school. I had to catch up when I first started college and it has taken years to feel like Im somewhat prepared for life. Highschool is an opportunity and I would tell myself to take hold of it and use it for good instead of bad. I would have told myself to enjoy it.

Brittney

If I could go back to my senior year and tell my self about what the past two and a half years have been like I would tell my self to get invovled early. To not let roommates stand in the way of getting invovled and meeting people. that though the two year relationship with a serious boyfriend ended badly that life is still amazing and the people I have meet through my travels for the residental community are friendships that will last forever. But mainly GET INVOLVED EARLY, school is important but the friendships you make outside the class are important too. Never be afraid to be myself because who I am is special and what I can offer the world is amazing.

Megan

As a senior in high school I was very concerned about going to a college that was well rounded with an excellent reputation. I wanted great academics and I looked a lot into the number of people from that school being admitted to Graduate School, but my biggest concern was money. I was absolutely sure I did not want to me majorly in debt. If I could go back,I would tell myself to stop worrying about all the numbers, statistics and even the price tag. My first year of college taught me that it is up to an individual, and not the school. Going to an ivy league school will not gaurantee dreams to come true. That is directly related to who I am and my work ethic. Even when it comes to paying for my education, it is up to me to have the determination and to follow through. I would tell myself that in the end I control my future and no matter what choices I made or what happens, whether or not I can make my dremas come true is all up to me. I

Rachel

I would tell myself to make better decisions when you apply to college. I did not go and see the campuses I applied to and now I am going to transfer because of it. I would also advise to work harder in a subject if you are close to getting a better grade and to talk to the teachers.

Accacia

DIVERSITY! You want to feel comfortable as soon as you walk on the campus, because if you don't get that feeling of comfort; you're not going to be able to walk around there like that. Undecided or decided make sure their are enough options in case you change your mind, but do take into account to check for things that you enjoy doing or want to participate in. Ask as many questions as possible about finances, because you want make sure that you benefit out everything you can for yourself to achieve success the way you want to. And since you want to travel and attend school somewhere outside of your home state, go!; even if it's community college for the time and do the basics to prepare yourself for a university Accacia (lol). Make earlier arrangements with your chosen school; ask what you can do for the time being with still being in school, that will help you attend the school of your personal choice. But always look forward to and for the best, because your perception of success with lead to a postive result for yourself. Smile, you're graduting and still going!

Katherine

Having a conversation with myself almost two years ago as a high school senior would definately shock me and completely alter my expectations of college life. The first statement I would say is that college will be better than you think it will be. I would tell myself that even though it is scary at first to be on your own, that is what makes it all the better since during that time I have countless opportunities and loads of time to be independent and figure out who I am as an individual person. I develop a relaitonship with the rest of the world. In college there is plenty of time to study and the library is just around the corner. Finally, the most important thing I would say to myself is to not be afraid to try new things and activities - to challenge myself both mentally and socially and to above all - enjoy your adventurous experience of a lifetime.

Justin

I would tell myself first to build a relationship with my academic counselor becuase they will help you out tremendously in areas that you're unsure about. Also to be ready for the freedom and responsibility you will now have living away from home; sure it will be easy to make mistakes but you have the knowledge to make the right decisions. When it comes to class you will have the option to go or skip it and hang out with your friends; just because you have the choice doesn't make it okay not to go to class. You will need to realize that you're ultimately in school for one reason, to get an education. Don't get caught up in the crazy scheduling and anxiety that school may bring, stay in touch with your family and friends and let them know how things are going for you; they're the people that care about you the most and will make you feel better when times are tough. Overall just stay true to yourself and your beliefs and you will be fine, its rough out there but you can handle anything.

Caitlin

My best advice is to relax. You will love college. I had a wonderful experience at a college and met some of my closest friends. Most of all, keep yourself open to meeting new friends. I knew people who went home each weekend because they had trouble transitioning. Instead of trying to get to know new friends, they clung tightly to old friends. Remember, your old friends will always be there, and college is your way to make new friends and new memories.

Emily

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to really take time in picking the right school for you. It is importanat to consider all the things you want in a college and take a trip to each of those schools. You should research each school you want to attend and think about the pros and cons of each one. Once you start at a school, you are there for at least the year, so really look into different schools and make the decision on your own. Do not let other people try to tell you that this school is better than that one, the decision is yours only.

Olivia

I have only completed my first semester in college, and still learning some stuff myself. The only advice I can give you is to log meetings in your phone, on your calender on the wall, on your computer, everywhere. We both know how forgetfull you are, and mom wont be there to remind you to take care of things. Even though you can get yourself out of any situation, it would be better to just avoid them. You are going to be fine your first semester. Have fun.

Courtney

I would give myself a few words of wisdom. First, I would advise myself to take a deeper look into the scholarships I apply to. While in high school I did not feel like taking the time and energy to submit any scholarships whatsoever. Looking back I regret this decision because I am struggling financially and wish I applied myself more in order to get the most help possible. I also would advise myself to not get too caught up in the social aspect of college. Yes, having a social life is important, but it is not everything. I am happy with my GPA so far (3.1), but I am not 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} satisfied. I think if I focus and apply myself more, I will be able to accomplish more with my education at Sonoma State University.

Sabie

Dear high school-self, I am your future-self writing to warn you about some things that could change your future. I know that choosing a college can be difficult, but by looking at a few things the applictaion proccess will be alot easier. Some things that I wish I'd thought about are the level of academics, the location, and cost. Go to a school where you know you will still feel challenged by the academics but not overworked. Think about the time you want for other things such as a job, friends, or hobbys. What kind of school fits you? As for location think about environment you want to be in. Do you want to be in a city or the country? Think about things that the surrounding town has to offer. Afterall, this is where you will be spending your next 4 years! As for cost think about what fits your budget. What kind of scholarship and financial aid oppurtunities are there? Just know that you cannot make a wrong choice. Whatever college you choose, wether you end up staying or transfering, you will be learning something about yourself. It's all about the journey!

Reyna

The transition to college involves many aspects, and one that I wish I had more advice on before I moved is friends. I was told that there would be so many people experiencing the same things I was that friendships would just happen naturally. In my suite, I live with five other female freshman. But they soon became a pair and a trio--I was the odd one out. Very few people told me that being best friends with the people I lived with didn't matter. I felt as though I had to be close to them because I was close in living space and it would make things more fun. By trying to become their friend I always felt like an unwanted burden; we are all different people and our personalities aren't compatible for a close relationship. When I found friends that accepted me for who I am and stopped trying to be with my suitemates, things got better. There are hundreds of strangers in college, there are bound to be people who I can be myself around. College is about choices, and choosing the right friends can have a profound impact on the overall college experience.

Theresa

I would tell myself that as much as I dreamed of marriage and children, the best gift that I could give myself and my future children would be to first learn how to be a successful, autonomous person. By learning this, I would learn what it takes to participate in healthy, functional relationships as well as become a healthy role model for my children. I w ould encourage myself to take those psychology courses that I have now taken, and only wish that I had them years ago. I would encourage my young self to really soul-search to find out what I really dream of doing with my life and to pursue that with every ounce of strength within me, as I now doing years later. I would tell myself to be brave and take a chance on myself and to know that I was smarter than I realized but that although I lacked confidence or encouragement, this would come as I follow my dream to become the woman that I always dreamed I could be. I would tell myself to believe in myself and go for it because I definitely will make a profound difference in the world

Jamila

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself that college is not as hard and scary as it seems. I was afraid to leave home because I was leaving behind my friends, family, and identity. Once i moved to Sonoma State, I got really homesick and wanted to move back home. But with the help of the friends that I made, I decided to stay and I finally felt like I found a home. Although you may think that college is all about school, it is also about making lifelong friends and succeeding. You don't really realize the importance of friendship until you are out on your own and away from your family. Another thing I would tell myself is to be more outgoing and learn how to manage my time better. Even though college is easier than high school because the flexible schedules, it is important to make sure you make a schedule and stick to it because it is so easy to fall behind. Lastly, I would tell myself that even though you're going away, you're best friends won't forget about you.

Julia

Many students celebrate their transition to college life as a step toward independence. They no longer have Mom and Dad looking over their shoulder to make sure that assignments are completed on time or that they are in bed by a certain hour. They can make their own decisions, and they relish the fact that they don't have to report to anyone but themselves. At the same time though, they may not count on the fact that there are consequences for their actions. If their assignments aren't done on time, they receive a bad grade. If they don't get enough hours of sleep, they can't concentrate the next day and miss some of the important information they are given in lectures. They also might not count on the fact that homesickness can set in, affecting their performance. Knowing what I know now about college life and making the transition, I would tell myself to keep up the good work because you will benefit from it eventually. Also, even though your parents may seem overbearing at times, they are really looking out for you. And, remember, you only get one set of parents -- cherish them.

Matthias

The advice I would give is not to take advantage of the freedom and be prepared for a larger amount of responsibilites.

Destinie

I would tell myself to apply for more scholarships because It has gotten really hard for me and my mom to pay for college especially after my brother's spine has gotten so messed up. He now has to go to the doctors a lot and is on a lot of differnet medications. If I would have applied for more scholarships it would be easier to pay for everything and I would not need to work as much to help pay my way through college. Because, I need to work so much it leaves less time for me to do my homework. This means that my grades are not as good as they could be and that I am not taking as many classes as I possibly could. I wish I would have known that I would be in this position when I was a high school senior so that I could have planned better.

Heather

Going back in time, I would tell myself what my biggest struggle was academically, because socially and overall, academics was the main concern. My main problem in transitioning to a freshman in college was the amount of time it took to study. I was an A student in high school, I thought I knew how to study, but I soon discovered it could take me eight days to study for an exam that was not a midterm or a final. High school teachers tell you all the time they are preparing you for college, that is where they are mistaken to a certain point. They prepare us for college in the little things by giving scenarios or projects, telling us that this would be what we had to do in college. What they do not prepare us for is the amount of work we would have. Looking back at high school it seems very simple.