Spelman College Top Questions

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

Ryan

I would have to say "listen to your dad." I would tell myself to to focus better on what I actually need to get where I am going. Dad and I have had it very rough after the divorce. We have gone without for so long that we learned not to waste time or money on dreaming and hard work is the only real way of acquiring goals. I have watched Dad try hard when he returned to school to get his bachelors degree. I would tell myself to work hard to obtain my degrees now and encourage myself that when I'm done I can give back to Dad what we sacrificed together to make things work. I would tell myself to look more closely at my friend's trials and tribulations regarding school and how their lives are forming because of their decisions. I would reassure myself that my path is correct and will require determination. Dad and I do not have a lot now and he is struggling to find ways for me to acquire my dream and degree so I will tell myself to keep driven, focused, and pray for Dad and I to succeed.

Erika

Dear Erika, You are a high school senior now and I understand that everyone wants to be accepted and feel normal, but you can no longer lose yourself in order to fit in. Your truest and greatest friends are those who befriended you when you were yourself. You must accept and love yourself for who you are because you are being a follower. You will never be happy this way and will never make the best decisions for Erika. When you stay true to yourself you will learn so much about who you are and the leader you want to become. Start learning yourself now because there will be many negative influences in college. While transitioning into college you do not want to get caught up in anything that will take your attention away from why you are there and why you will be paying $32,000 a year. Erika, when you are yourself, you will realize that you are an over achieving student who will not let anything prevent you from reaching your dream. You will be able to begin curving out your own unique path in life; a path dedicated to striving for excellence. With Love, Erika Hall

Taylor

If I could go back to high school to give myself about college I would first tell myself that it isn't all just about partying. The best thing to do would be to focus on my studies. I would also tell myself not to stress about the little things. Everything happens for a reason. Another thing I would tell myself is to expect to stay up late to study sometimes. College isn't easy and it's real life. I would tell myself that people say what you do in high school reflects your future, I would say it's more serious as a college student. The last thing I would tell myself is to be very flexible. It's hard to make plans and stick with them because of the homework. You have to be willing to give some things up, like parties and activities, to work and do homework to live and pass your classes. College has been an awesome experience, but it's not exactly what I've expected.

Alesha

I would tell myself…..never give up; don’t let one negative comment or word ruin our dreams. Hard work always pays off, when you keep going. I would say there will be times when you just want to throw in the towel and quit, but if we quit, where’s that going to get us? I would tell myself that there will be the non-believers and haters that will try and slow me down, tell me I’m no good and that I will never make it. Then I would have a big smile on my face when I tell my high school self that it didn’t work, that the haters didn’t get to me because I’m here today stronger, educated, older and just a little bit wiser. I would tell myself that we can make it and to always believe in myself.

Alice

I would have stayed in high school and learned all I could about getting ready for college. I would have been in as many activities and did a lot of community service work. I would have also started saving for college a lot earier. I would have said keep going keep your head up and everything will work out don't give up..never give up!

Janae Alessandra

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior knowing what I know now, I would have a lot to say! I would tell myself to enjoy the last year of my high school career, but to buckle down and apply for more scholarships so I won't have to worry so much when it comes time to be a freshman in college. Also I would tell myself to enjoy all freshman year has to offer in a new city but to live by a schedule so my time wold be more efficiently used. I would remind myself that it is hard to come back from a bad GPA freshman year, so take all of my classes seriously. Most of all I would say to focus on being proficient so you can have fun when its time for fun and not have to stress about catching up on work or money.

Jordan

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would say to get a 19 or above on math, reading, english, and science so I wouldnt have to take remedial classes. Apply for every scholarship that you qualify for. You dont want to have to pay back money. Start applying for colleges and everything early, so you can be ahead of time and you wouldnt stress out about everything. Stay on top of your FAFSA. Have better communication with schools. Talk to you counselor about college becuase believe it or not, she knows what she is talking about. Just stay calm, get your test scores up, and have communication and you will be more prepared. Have a Plan! Never procrastinate and do everything you can early. Do what is best for you and dont get peer pressured into things like loans that you dont want to have to pay back. Go to the college you want. Stay Positive!

Giovanna

You're finally getting that freedom you always wanted: free from early mornings, household chores, lectures from your parents, but once you walk through the gates of Spelman College, those are the least of your worries. You are no longer under the close-watch and immediate protection from your parents which, as great as it sounds, is undoubtedly the scariest experience you will ever go through. You are now responsible for your own physical safety, financial management, and life decisions. Your typical protocol for friendships and even relationships is no longer the same because in college you encounter people who you may need in the future or people of a nature you've never had to deal with before and it's hard. The complexity of college life is definitely underestimated; changes you may be impatiently waiting for will turn into your worst nightmare if you don't brace yourself for the worst, but it will definitely be the best time of your life! Most importantly, don't forget your parents when you leave home. They were there for you at your lowest - you're not that high up yet.

Ana

The advice I would give myself will be is if I really want to succeed that every sacrifice is worth it because the satisfaction you'll receive from a letter grade is greater than a night out with friends. Also, procratinating in college is very different than in highschool. You will fail and teacher have zero tolerance for make-up assignments and tests. Furthermore, I would purchase the course's books before the class begins so, I will start doing the work before it is ask.

Erin

I would tell myself to DO SCHOLARSHIPS! I wish I would have listened to my mom, becuase now I am struggling to try and pay my way through college. My mom always told me college was not cheap and that I needed to do scholarships, but I was caught up in the hype of senior year. I thought college money would be handed to me. I have made the ultimate sacrifice such as joining the army to assist me with college money. I wouldn't have had to make such a drastic change in my life had I taken time to fill out scholarships. I am understanding reality and that you can be sent home if you do not have the proper funds to pay for college.

Bonita

As a high school seniorr I was in no rush to attend college. The search for schools I would apply to was determined mostly by campuses that my parents could not easily get to. If I had the opportunity to talk to myself as a high school senior, the most important thing I would say is that I should have focused more on being a strong leader. While I held leadership positions as a senior, I was not interested in being the best leader I could. I mostly wanted the title and the perks. Though I was always involved, I do not work hard at perfecting the craft of leadership. A fault which would show itself as a sophomore and junior in college. I would tell myself to get ready to be my best.

Ebony

I would tell myself to do better in my math classes and work on my study habits. I would also tell myself to make sure everything is in order for when I get ready to go away for school. I would make sure that I didn't focus on unimportant things like putting others before myself, especially my happiness and well being because all of those I put myself out there for have turned on me.

Jazmyn

One of the fist things I would say to myself is that even though there is new freedom to do more fun actvities does not mean I need to compromise my study habits. When I first came to school, I would let activities like parties distract me from my studying, but as the year went on I slowly learned that was not such a good idea. Additionally, I would advise myself to build strong bonds with the professors concerning my major, which is biological science. They are the best resources for learning more about what I want to do career wise, and they can help open up opportunities for me by doing something as simple as writing a recommendation. Lastly, I would advise myself to no procrastinate. Procrastination is one of my biggest problems, and over the semester I realized that it only causes me to be stressed out and panicked.

Chantelle

I would tell myself as a high school senior to start looking for scholarships now. There are multiple (good) scholarships that are only available to high school seniors/incoming freshmen. That would be my biggest advice to my younger self. As far as adjusting to college life, I would remind myself to go through college like I did in high school. Mainly to always work hard so you can play harder, and to not let little things (like parties, boys, or even friends) to come between you and your education.

Saleena

Now, you should be applying for as many scholarships as you can since you know that you want to go to Spelman, and you know that it's super enpensive. Search in libraries, on google, and ask around. There are so many scholarships that you can to apply for while you're a high school senior and many of them are full-ride scholarships. Now, you should also start talking to the financial aid personnel at Spelman and stay in touch with them and in their offices when you get to Spelman. You're more likely to get scholarships if you know them and they know you by name and face. Learn how to get rid of that procrastination now, while you can, because in college it gets really hard if you procrastinate. Never give up and have fun, don't stress out too much because college will put on some added stress, especially all the science classes you have to take.

Mercedes

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would give myself a ton of advice about college life. Knowing what I know now about the actual college experience and its transition, I would definitely emphasize one factor more than any other. One of the main things that I would tell myself is to have more fun. I came into college with the mindset that I should study all the time so that I would always stay focused. However in the midst of me being the ideal student, I feel as though I missed out on a lot of the fun aspects of college. Although I managed to recieve all A's my first year in college I do regret that I dd not set aside more time to explore the fun aspects of my freshman year. I think that this is critical because it affects the memories that you create with your new friends and it allows you have the full college experience.

Diamond

I would have made sure that when I go to college I know exactly what I HAVE to do. I can tell my self all day that I need to do something but as long as in my brain its listed under things I have a choice with, it may or may not get done. So I would make sure that I mentally imprint that I have to get my work done and get all A's.

shaila

The advice that I would give myself as a high school senior would be the same advice that I would give current high school seniors, that advice is as follows "begin networking as soon as possible". As mentioned previously, I was not introduced to the benefit of good networking until late in my junior year. As a result, I was introduced rather lately to the internships, classes, and financial assistance that could have greatly assisted me during my under classmen years. However knowing this information now, I choose not to deal in the past and to prevent incoming college students from making the same mistakes as me. I would advise them to begin reaching out to upper classmen or professors/researchers within their field of interests. In doing so they may be able to gain a tremendous advice that can play a huge positive impact in their life. Not only that but such networking techniques can lead to the formation of life long friend and mentors as well. In closing I would advice incoming students about the importance of good networking. While I did learn this information later in life, I have no regrets regarding my undergraduate career.

Amber

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to stop stressing and enjoy the year. My senior year, I was completely stressed out. I was worried about college acceptance letters, scholarships, friends, and prom. I should have taken time to calm down. At the end of the year, I was accepted to my first choice school, I received two scholarships, and I looked amazing at prom. I feel like I could have enjoyed my senior year more, if I was not stressed out.

Ashley

From attending Spelman College, I have become more humble, street-smart, globally aware, responsible and culturally aware. It was a huge value to attend Spleman College, because before attending the College, I did not know much about my African-American background. I now know about many of the African American feminists who faught for our civil and freedom rights, that I did not know of before. I have attained more street-smarts because I now know that walking alone, as a female, is very dangerous. Spelman College is located in the hood of Atlanta, Georgia, so I know it is necessary to walk in groups of three or more and to not talk to anyone I do not know.

Marquel

I have to honestly state that I have gained respect for different cultures, found a sisterly bond, and learned what a real Spelman woman truly is. It has been a valuable experience to attend Spelman College because I have been offered so many different opportunities. I am honored to have learned the things that Spelman teaches me such as diversity, tolerance, as well as other things on the academic level. I have not only grown mentally but i have made social advances as well.

Sheronn

I have learned many things from my undergraduate experience. One of the most crucial skills attained from the process is the ability to take responsibility for my financial and educational business. I learned how to speak up for myself, keep accurate records, strategically research financial assistance, embrace opportunities from non-traditional class experiences, and how to expect more from myself and educators. My college experience also helped me to appreciate diversity and redefine unity. I learned how to live in close proximity with individuals who did not uphold my values but respected my stance. I grasped the concept of communication and how to express ideas and displeasures in a respectful manner that incorporated personal advancement and organizational success. My process taught me how to take advantage of educational opportunities afforded to me at the expense of my parents' advancement. I am now more empowered and equipped to provide a better future for my family and pave the way for those following in my academic footsteps. Thank you!

Deborah

I am a single mom of three kids, recently a grandma. I lost my job last year in January, been looking since but nothing has come to me. I got a crazy idea to go to college, I was what people would is a "hater" I didn't like high school why would I ever go to college it is a waste of time is what you would hear me say. Well I am 44 yrs old, and I now am kicking myself for being that way. But I was a young mom of two in my twenties, I don't think I would of finished school if I would of started. I feel more motivated in getting the work done, I show up for every class. I still try to make it so I go with my work done and ready for the next assignment. I keep on top of my work some of my classsmates refer to me as a over achiever, but really I am not I just like to be prepared. I am enjoying myself and I feel I will complete the two year program. Thank you so much for your time, Deborah Ann Weber

Ashley

Spelman College developed me into the woman I am today. They provided me with the foundation that I needed in order to step into the corporate world and to be prepared for what was to come. My involvement in extracurricular activties taught me to how to manage my time wisely and how to be a leader. My work in the registrars office taught me how to work on a team and interract with other people. My relationships with my professors taught me how to have a respect for upper management while respecting their position but learning from them at the same time. I learned to appreciate working in the community and realized the affect that one small active of kindness and a little bit of your time can do for someone less fortunate. I have a whole new out look on life and I appreciate Spelman College for not only developing me while I attended the school but also trying to maintain those relationships as an Alumni. They try to make sure their students feel like they are part of a family not just a one-time experience in life. I would not trade that experience for anything.

Andy

Now entering as a Senior at Cerritos College, I have learned many lessons throughout my journey to carry me on for the years to come. Attending college is and will be one of the most greatest of things I have done for myself. It has shown me my strengths and weaknesses. What I am good at and what I am not good at. It has broadened my life in many ways! I have been sculpted into a more mature individual, not only mentally but, physically as well. It has created many opportunities and open doors to help shape my life into the great life I dream of everyday. My knowledge has expanded from the size of a peanut to the size of the Himalayan mountains! Okay, not that large in scale but, I am simply saying that I have learned a great deal than I had originally before I attended college. Without college, I wouldn't be the person I am today. And one thing is for sure, education is everything!

Annamarie

I have been involved with a showchoir group at Butler Community College for the past year and a half. Our instructor believes it is just as important, if not more, to not only learn all of our music and dance moves but to learn about who we are and what is important in life. Some of these lessons I have learned include to cherish every moment, learn from others mistakes and your own, and what you put in is what you'll get out of it. The most important lesson, though, I believe is to be strong and just be yourself and people will love you just for that. These lessons are what I most value from my college experience so far. The reason for this is that while academic lessons will help you in your field of work, these life lessons will help you succeed not only in the work force but with your relationships as well. By learning good tips for life, you'll get more out of it and be more successful. But most importantly you'll be happier!

Jennifer

The experience at Remington College has not only given me a great education, but has also given me confidence and a drive to succeed. I plan to continue my college experience by going into a Bachelor Degree program, through the same school, as soon as I complete my Associate Degree program. I have set many goals for myself and have no doubts about my ability to complete them, thanks to this experience. I gained an appreciation for a higher education that was not instilled in my as a child.

jeremy

My personal college experience has already been a truly unforgettable experience. I started August 2010 and being a non-traditional student, I was actually quite fearful of possibly not fitting into the new college scene. However, after a few weeks it became clear that the experience was nothing comparable to what I once thought. Fellow students at my college are like family to me and we have helped each other from day one. If I had a question, everyone was so willing to assist with a great attitude. I guess my most valuable experience came from helping with fellow student's learning. I remember this one girl in particular who seemed to be really struggling. As time went on I noticed in class she did not always have the materials she needed to do her work and turn it in properly. But, I noticed she was there every class meeting. Time went on and I noticed she was having bad problems with fractions. We worked together and I explained to her the importance of determination and praised her for her dependability. I feel like I am chosen to be a help and encourager to my fellow students.

Skyla

The main experience that i have gotten out of being at Spelman College is support without your hand being held. In many instutions I have experienced that either the administration is supportive but gives you everything or not enough to a point where you are left alone. they tell you what to do, give you everything to do it, and the instructions but then half way into the procedure, you are left by yourself. other institutions would tell you to figure itour by yourself, sign up for a major and the rest iisup to you. At Spelman you are given a light to lead yourself. A skeletal background to structure yourself but given enough independence that you would be able to maintain your own schedule, extra activities, and outside activities.

Michelle

Throughout my life, I have gained diverse perspectives that have helped shape the leader within me. Being immersed in a liberal arts education of this caliber, I am confident that I will soon be able to exhibit the qualities of a free thinking woman: qualities that President Tatum and scholarly leaders have used to make a difference on a global scale. Certain people have influenced my learning experience and have contributed to my growth as a free thinking woman. My mom encouraged me to have a passion for higher learning, and my counselor encouraged me to further my education at Spelman College. More recently, Dr. Butler expressed the significance of a liberal education, which I believe will assist me in my educational and professional goals. After receiving a liberal education and becoming a global citizen, I believe I will be more than likely to reach my goals. A liberal education is my window to the world from the perspective of a historian, an artist, and a chemist with a host of other disciplines. By being global and obtaining not only information but knowledge, I will be preparing myself for a life of service to my community and the world.

Imani

What I have gotten out of my college experience so far is a greater appreciation for the things I may have taken for granted before as well as an opportunity to learn about different people and different places. It has been valuable for me to attend because there is no greater experience during your teenage years than college. It allows you the freedom you do not get at home, as well as the level of responsibility required in adulthood. It also allows you to appreciate certain things that you may not have before. College is also a very important factor in determining where you will be in th future.

da'leeza

I've been able to meet new people form all over the world. Learn about new religons and traditions. My teachers have been very helpful and understanding when something comes up or if I am having difficulty understanding what we are learning. They understand that people learn in different ways and that helps me because I learn through hands on activities and group arrangements. Overall, it has been a good educational and fun experience; I have learned many new things, made new friends, and helped learn more about myself and future.

Mayisha

My college experience has been incredibly valuable to me because it has enabled me to meet an array of awesome women and men; experience failure and success, while understanding how to navigate between the two in order to become a better person; become an independent and responsible adult; think broad and work smart; experience a liberal arts and and an engineering education; encounter passionate educators of all ages, experiences, and credentials; give back to my community; and travel to countries (like Peru, Brazil, Ghana, France, South Africa, and Denmark) that I never dreamed that I could experience, all while exploring my passion of jazz music. P.S. - Please forgive my extensive, run-on sentence. I am college educated :). It was just easier to throw in the semi-colons and run with it.

Alana

The prospect of attending law school is the only thing my mind has fixated on since I was a child. Law school, to me, means financial freedom, a creative career, and loving what I do every morning when I wake. Overcoming and achieving this goal is what I strive for daily. It is the only reason I registered for undergraduate school at Spelman College, attend my law and government classes, and try my best in every aspect of my life. Law school means the opportunity of a lifetime; the ability to reach and surpass my aspirations. While at Spelman College, I hope to accomplish getting my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, with a concentration in pre-law. I am looking forward to many of the classes that are required for this major. Some of the classes are focused on different types of psychology, statistics, and political science, to mention a few. These classes will prepare me for the courses that await me in law school. Along with my classes at Spelman, I also plan to intern with at least one company/agency that will be able to help me find a job in my field once I pass the bar.

Chanelle

From my college experience I have learned to be indepenent, self reliant, determined, dedicated and responsible. I did not have the typical college experience by having to work to pay for school. I missed out on alot of typical college milestones. I was determined to recieve an education so that was a scarifice i made and would do it all over again if i had too.

Bryndi

So far in being in school, that I have freedom now as an adult, but I still have responsibility and that it is on me to do what is for me to succeed in life. I feel that college perpares me for reality as I'm experiencing reality. But it still gives me the experience to have fun, love to achieve knowledge through experience and academics.

Melody

I currently attend Tallahassee Community College and being far away from home has taught me a great sense of independence and dedication. It is an amazing school on a beautiful campus that has a lot to offer. TCC is valuable because it has not only offered me a college education but also a wonderful athletic facility and a full time job. Working and going to school on campus means I am there quite a bit and I appreciate all of the oppurtunities for tutoring and extra curriculars that TCC has to offer.

Corinthia

I have learned that the four years done in undergraduate studies, especially at Spelman College, is the foundation of the rest of your life. Its okay to come in as an undecided major and its okay to change your major when you arrive. College is all about finding yourself and figuring out what makes you happy and what you want to do for the rest of your life. College is very fun, and there is always somethiing to do, but you have to prioritize and ask yourself which is important, going to the party and having a good time or studying for a test the next day. Spelman College is valuable to attend because not only will you have an extensive knowledge in your major, you will be able to hold an intellectual conversation with anyone about anything. Spelman is a Liberal Arts school so you will become well rounded and be able to market yourself to become successful in your future endeavors.

Avi

College has been a great forum for me to share and strengthen or change my viewpoints. College is one of those places where you get to interact with many like yourself as well as those who are starkly different. Being in an environment with so many different intellectuals with vary perspectives on things really causes you to examine and defend your own beliefs. College is a growing stage; intellectually, physically, and socially. It is an opportunity that should be taken if you are able. College has facilliated my maturation and a perfection of my debating and cognitive abilities.

Dominique

I have received one of the best educations an African-American woman can receive from Spelman College. I have also gained self-respect, and self-awareness that I feel I could not have gotten anywhere else. Attending Spelman is a priceless experience because every student, whether I ever speak to them personally, or otherwise, is my sister. As long as I carry the Spelman name, I know I will have connections and opportunities throughout the course of my life. Spelman has put me on the track to be the woman I was born to be, I know that there is nothing I cannot do regardless of my race, and sex. Spelman has a legacy of strong women, who are the first, and the best in their fields, and it is because of those who came before me that i can say with confidence I can, and will be the best at whatever it is I choose to do.

Matthew

I have not attended yet but look forward to learning what it takes to achieve success by using my own abilities and skills to accomplish what it takes to succeed in the real world.

Kuldeep

As an Indian-American who has immigrated to the United States, met both financial and medical hardships, the "college experience" has been a truly unique experience for me. Having unsuccessfuly attended two previous colleges, I am currently enroute to graduate from my local community college in a few short days, as well in the process of registering for classes at New York University for the upcoming fall. The college experience for me, has been one of much turmoil and frustration, but as I finally learned the error of my ways and overcame my medical hardships, the experience was turned upside down, for the better. The college I currently attend is an incredible place and is regarded as one of the best community colleges in the US. Here, I have learned much about myself, as well as of others around me. It has helped to develop and guide me towards a seemingly unlikely future career, that previously never crossed my mind. If I could start over, do things different, experience a more traditional college experience, would I? Nope. It has been a truly unique learning experience, without which I would not be where I am, or who I've become today.

Ashley

I have not yet attended Spelman College; but I know that it will be a valuable experience because it will teach me how to become more responsible, discipline me, and cause me to become more outspoken and confident.

April

College is the perfect place for transition. Your scope of mind broadens to include things you could not even fathom prior to college. You learn not only about your field of stuidy, but you learn about different cultures and people. You learn abotu what makes you,. well you. You learn what pushes you ove rthe edge, you learn what you excell at, you learn where your faith and morals lie. College is a place where you discover more than what you came from. It gives you a different view of the world and contributes to the person you are becoming. On top of everything, it is just plain fun. The perfect time to do whatever you want before the attack of "real life" comes. By alumni it is referred to as the best times of their lives, and it's totally true. All of it. It's there for you to learn and enjoy.

Robin

I have learned that there's nothing I can't do, that there are always people out there to help me as long as I ask, if I don't ask for help, people won't know I need it until I am showing extreme signs of needed help, and that I should give back to and help the community. It has been valuable to attend Spelman College because without the experience I have had, my eyes would not have been as open to the different issues going on in the world and what I can do to help, also it has shown me that I can be a very successful person and it has shown me the steps that I need and can take to make my dream of success come true.

Nandi

My college experience has afforded me with the pleasure of a liberal art education, as well as the opportunity to meet a very diverse and dedicated group of young men and women. I have learned that I am capable of just about anything I put my mind to, and that no one should strive for anything less than greatness.

Derricka

From my first year of college at Spelman, I have learned a great deal about giving back to the community. It is a known fact that giving back to the community makes the world a better place but is a life changing experience for the participant and the recipient. It is also a known fact that college requires great tenacity and proactivity.I have learned that nothing is given to anybody, it is earned. So when I wanted membership in an organization, I had to do the application and attend the necessary meetings. When I wanted to achieve a certain grade in a class, I had to do the work, study hard, and earn that grade. It has been valuable to attend Spelman College because I know that the lessons I learned here at Spelman I will not and would not be able to learn anywhere else. In addition to the lessons learned, the sisterhood and network I have gained at Spelman College, I know that no other institution could offer to me like Spelman has and will continue to do.

Nicole

If I could go back in time I would have a lot of advice for myself. I would start off by letting myself know that time goes by fast and in order to embrace that I would always have to prepared. I would encourage myself to set goals for the short and long term; set academic goals, career goals and personal goals. I would stress the importance of not only setting goals but keeping track of them so that even when I didn't accomplish them I would know where I stand. Aside from warning myself about how quickly time passes, I would fill myself in on Spelman's atmosphere. I would recommend attending all accepted students college-sponsored events to get a greater feel for the people I would be spending the next four years with and have a chance to make friends. I would tell myself that at Spelman the quickest way to move up the ladder is to get involved early. The most important thing I've learned in college is to stay prepared because I never know what opportunities may come my way. I would make sure high-school Nicole knew this.

Tia

Involve yourself in high school. Study hard to make the highest GPA possible and strive for an academic scholarship. Research and apply for as many scholarships that you find, education is expensive and so are the books that you purchase each semester. If you work in High School, save your money to purchase the necessary things that you will need which includes a laptop computer with printer. You will have to keep in mind that computer ink is expendable so you will need money to purchase extra cartridges. If you go out of state to a college, consider how to transport all those college items to your dorm, consider how you will get around in the city. Visit your college and know that is where you want to go. Be prepared ask questions and get the answers necessary to make decisions. Know that you will make mistakes, but keep in mind that making mistakes is part of maturity, just don't make the same mistake twice. Lastly, share your thoughts and feelings with your parents, they are your biggest supporters.

Candance

Candance you're about to make a pretty big decision. Your choice for undergraduate will help you to go where you want in life. We both know you want to do everything from win the Nobel to working an archeological dig in some remote part of this earth perhaps even universe. You need a college that will give you a strong foundation so you can easily move through whatever career you so choose. Please I beg of you, make your summers count. Get a passport and travel the world; experience all you can. I would suggest a liberal arts school because they offer they strong foundation you need. Make an effort to know where you come from it's really important when you decide where you're going. My last piece of advice is that you give your best no matter what because there are a lot of people watching who are willing to help you succeed.