Spring Arbor University Top Questions

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

Emily

I have gotten a lot from the school from the professers that actually go by the school contrated. But other then that there has been a lot of different things I wish that people would not get away with. I have learned that no mater what type of school there is they will always bend the rules for the sports people.

Patrick

College has taught me to question the answers that my professors and other students have given me. College is not about learning all of the answers to life's challenges, but instead to create and form yourself into the individual that will be beneficial in society. Spring Arbor has provided me with experiences that have challenged me and increased my personal knowledge. When graduating next year, I do feel prepared to be a critical participant within the field of finance.

Justa

My college experience has been valuable to me because I have realized that while speaking up for yourself may be a double-edged sword sometimes, it is always better to speak up for something you believe in, even if the consequence may not be so appealing in the end. As long as you can feel good about your decisions and know that what you did was right for yourself, there should be no regrets in the end. I am glad I chose to get my bachelor degree in Social Work, as it has allowed me to see the spectrum of empowerment and advocation from every angle. Spring Arbor University has definitely allowed me to keep my job and prepare me for my future career at the same time. I set a goal for myself and I am dedicated to my education, and I will value this experience for the rest of my life. Not only have I become more knowledgable but I have also gained friends for life. I will never forget my college experience.

Kaylie

Going into college is always an adventure. You know what to expect, but then again you really don't. You're filled with excitement, fears, expectations, and emotions as the summer after you graduate gets closer to the following fall. For me personally, I did not want to leave high school. I don't really like change and the idea of new people and a new place to call home terrified me. Little did I know, these exact apprehensions I had before going in, became the exact reasons I didn't want to leave on move out day. My first year of my college experience has taught me more than any other year of my life. Many say you go to college for an education, and even though this is true, you get a much greater diverse experience than just the classroom learning. I have discovered so much more about who I am and what I stand for. Being off on your own, away from home allows you the privilege to shine and develop into who you want to be. The opportunities are endless in college and it is in your best interest not to miss out on them!

Katelynn

The amount of things that I have learned since I've attended Spring Arbor, is monumental. Not only have I learned from my classwork, but I have also learned how to be a God loving Christian in a world where people struggle to be themselves daily. Since coming here I have been given the opportunity to be myself, and learn who exactly I want to be when I graduate.

Katherine

I found my experience at Monroe Community College to be very beneficial. I have to admit, the thought of going to community college for two years did not make me very excited. However, as I look back after finishing my last year there, I am very grateful that I attended. I now have my associate degree in Early Childhood Education, and through the program at MCC I have realized important aspects in helping me make future decisions and career choices. By the end of my program I realized that I love the school setting, but being a teacher is not for me. I am now transferring and continuing my degree in school psychology. Through a placement I was given by MCC in an elementary school, I was able to further explore this career and shadow those in the field of school counseling. I am very thankful with the education program at MCC for providing me with the opportunities I have experienced. I feel prepared and confident to transfer to a four year college. I feel like I have been given a great foundation to build on, no school debt so far, all my credits transferred, you can?t beat it!

Andrew

I have been in the workforce for the last 10 years. I was recently fired from my job after years of loyal service. The experiences I am getting in college are nes that will allow me to move ahead in my life. The career feield I have chosen will allow me to grow and have a steady and stable proffession.

Emilee

Attending Spring Arbor University went beyond any of my expectations. Anewed spirituality, real friends, and an initiative to learn floods my first two years in college. The chapel services are incredible. A live worship band, new speakers, and great fellowship keeps the week fresh and driving. On days when I feel skipping out for the day but after leaving the service I know that the service was exactly what I needed. In these times of fellowship friendships and bonds are made right from the start. In Spring Arbor orientation students are placed into a "Core" group. It is a group of freshman with a faculty and student advisor that have a class, camping trip, and many fun events together. Because of this program I have established two of my closest friends on campus. Faculty friends are common. Professors are passionate and genuinely interested in each student's life. With this passion students feel encouraged to continue studies. When it's all over, and summer break begins students are excited for the break but torn from friends. When vactions are over and the journey back to school begins it is in fact leaving home, only to be welcomed by another.

Marcella

The most that I have gotten out of my college experience so far has been a deeper and more intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. Througout my struggles, I have learned a way to cling to God in times of trouble. I have been encouraged to grow deeper in Christ, rather than be harassed for being a believer. This has changed my life in so many ways because I understand how vulnerable these years are in terms of finding my identity. I have been given the opprotunity to find my identity in Christ. This has not only made me a stronger person, but it has also given me the courage to be a leader driven by honesty, integrity, and heart. God has preserved me both sexually, and morally at SAU, and I have had the opprotunity to make life-long friendships. I have also been able to learn about many of the Religious, Political, Economic, Psychological, and Education systems that continue to corrupt America and have discovered a new passion as to how I can go about helping these systems benefit all Americans, instead of a select few. I have found purpose, passion, courage, and strength while attending Spring Arbor University.

april

It has taught me that I can be anything. I love attending college . It also has to me to come out of my shell some and to stop being so shy. It has been valubable to attend to make sure i earn my degree.

Kendra

I have only been in college for one year but I have gotten alot from my experience so far. I have gotten to know some amazing people that have been encouraging to me and have been supportive towards me. I have gained more confidence for myself throught my college experience. I have gain great knowledge about my intended major. It has been very valuable for me to attend college. I want to be a special education teacher and the only way for me to be able to do that is to attend school. That is one reason that college has been valuable so that it furthers my future to career. It has also been valuable because I have been able to met some people that are great role models to me and are positive influences in my life. I really appreciate my opportunity to continue my education into the future!

Annette

My college experience has followed a non-traditional route. I attended Michigan State University immediately after graduating from high school. As a small town girl, I found myself ill-prepared for life at a Big Ten school. Now, many years later, I have returned to school with the goal of becoming an elementary teacher. This time around, I am focused and determined. Even though I work full-time and have a family, I have been successful in my studies and have discovered a strength within myself that I wasn't sure existed and a passion for my educational path that simply wasn't there at age 17. I have learned, not only in my college classrooms but also in my hands-on eperiences at local elementary and middle schools. Each time I enter a classroom, my excitement about becoming a teacher grows. I cannot wait to make a difference in the lives of children, and my college experience has shown me that I can do it!

Erin

My college experience has allowed me to see people as they are and less of who they hang out with. I enjoy being able to walk around campus and have people say "hi" to me because they know me not because they feel like they have to. There are no problems with clicks because everyone is willing to be your friend and get to know the real you. I have also dicovered what I enjoy most about life and try to endulge in the little things. Attending Spring Arbor has been valuable because I will leave with friends who actually care about me and professors who cared about my success. I am confident that my experience here will allow me to succeed in life with the eduaction that I am recieving at Spring Arbor University.

nicte-ha

At Mt hood community college, our theatre department was put into debt because rick zimmer wanted to bring in proffesional actors and not use students, and then decided to tell us that he is retiring. our theatre program will be cut next year because of funding. All visual arts classes will be cut, and they are trying to stimulate a parking expense. As well as try to use the movie theatre across from us to use for lecture classes. that is why i am trying to work so hard to get into the Art institute of Portland.

Marcia

My college experience simply cannot be summed up in mere words. The short time I have had at Spring Arbor University has opened my eyes to a diverse world that holds numerous opportunities. I have personally accomplished much more than academics; I have realized what it meant to be a true friend, co-worker, and leader (directly and indirectly). No matter where you are in life, someone is always looking up to you; everyone is influencing someone, whether or not he or she is aware of this fact. At college especially, this fact is more evident. One is not under the wing of his or her parents anymore; the student can and does make their own decisions with a greater sense of freedom. Although the student pays for the tuition of college, the money is well worth the overcoming sense of community, self-revelation, and freedom that the higher education institution brings. College is a one time thing; once a young adult lives away from home at a university, their experiences, good or bad, shape them. I am already molded by my friends; our friendship, talks, and laughs all have allowed me to realize what true friendship and love is.

Kimberly

College has served to shape me as a Christian and an individual by strengthening my character. I have learned to be diligent in my pursuits for learning and understanding, dedicated to my goals, hopeful for the realization of my dreams, and flexible with my schedule so that I do not shirk my responsibilities. I have learned how to be mature in assuming responsibilities, but also how to balance my responsibilities with my various interests and social life. It has also helped me to become stronger in my faith. Through college, I have questioned why I believe in Christianity and what my faith means to my life. Because of this, I have found that the faith I hold dear is eternally valuable and gives me hope for a future after this life. This reality gives meaning to my life here and especially to my life in college because it means giving my best effort in everything I set my mind and heart to. Because of these things, college has been more than worth the cost and effort. It has shaped me into someone I don't believe I would have become otherwise.

Stephanie

There are many things that I have gotten out of my college experience. To name a few I have learned to balance friends with school work, communicate effectively with professors, and the most important, how to strengthen my walk with God while attending Spring Arbor University. All the things that I have listed are important during the college years, however I feel my walk with God has been the most valuable. The one thing that I value the most out of my college experience so far would be my walk with God. Spring Arbor University has made me relay on God more than I have before. When the going got tough the one thing I wanted to do was pack up my belongings and head back home. Of course that was never the real answer and not a good solution to anything, so I had to learn to put my trust and faith in God. Being surrounded by other believers is how I got through my first year of college. The people around me were always positive and new God had a plan, and He knew what he was doing. That is the most valuable part of my college experience.

Ashley

During my time in college, I have learned valuable strategies for studying as well as managing time. I have learned from my professors that taking the time to read, go over notes, and attend class will not only help me immensely in each of my classes but also in life. I am glad that I made the decision to attend a 2-year college before going on to university. It has given me more time to adjust to college life on a smaller scale as well as allow me to learn from mistakes that may have had greater costs anywhere else. I feel that when I transfer to a 4-year school in the fall, I will be more eminently prepared than former classmates that attended university right out of high school. I am hopeful towards the future as well as my career and am thankful that my parents have provided for opportunities that they might not have dreamed of.

Michael

Don't mess around with girls in high school. 95{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of them will just hurt your academics and won't be worth your time. Focus on more important things. The transition will go quickly, so try your best to adjust quickly too. Get involved, but not over-involved and always remember that it's ok to relax sometimes, just not all the time.

anika

As a 32 year old graduate student there is one key piece of advice that I would give my high school self. It would be to remember your value a child of God. God?s promises that are contained in the Bible can be your counsel and your guide to not only your college career but also to the world. The Bible demonstrates the importance of honesty and hard work- both characteristics for success in college. The Bible teaches about morality which can help one in day to day life. When one forgets their value or bases it on what others believe about them it affects your focus. This can in turn affect your performance in college. College is a competitive environment but by believing, owning and behaving with the value that you have just by being a child of Christ all things are possible. Realize that you may not always be the best at everything but you can be successful. Keep him as the center of your life because he has already established your path and is there to be your beacon of light in troubling or difficult times. Remember your value as Christ?s child.

Rebecca

Each year can be the best year of your life. As you finish high school, appreciate the past, but don?t cling to it. Move on to a fresh place where you will be stretched, and embrace opportunity once you get there. Don?t allow yourself to become stressed?you will inevitably make some mistakes. Deal with what is on your plate now, living in the present; too much thinking ahead causes you to miss out on life now. Look at people when you walk past them, and smile; it?s amazing what a smile does for both you and others. Relationships are at the top of your mind; just be authentic. Don?t push a personality that isn?t yours and don?t second-guess whether or not people like you. Respect others and be willing to both share and listen. Be the one to include the outsider in social events, and you might unearth a gem of a person. Even if you don?t feel like it, get involved in good activities because once you start you?ll find your passion simply waiting for you to make a move. Let your true heart show up wherever you are.

Erica

College is going to be different than high school has been. It is time to buckle down. One's room is a sanctuary. It is a place to rest and have fun. Roommates can be distracting to studies and homework assignments. Therefore do not do homework, reading, or studying in the room. Go to the library for all responsibilities regarding schoolwork. This will keep one's room an enjoyable place to go to rest and to have fun in. Start homework and papers as soon as class is over. Before heading to the room, go to the library first to get a heads start on the responsibilities due for the next class. With block scheduling it is easy to not do the homework or reading until the day before it is due, do it the day that the assignment has been known! This way one has two days to work on the assignment if need be. Set a bedtime for each weeknight. An efficient amount of sleep is crucial for performing well in the classes that will be being taken. It is vital to be active in class participation and listending to others during class.

Steve

Steve, you are a member of this community. When you were a child, your father's trade opportunities decreased considerably which left you paying your own dental bills with paper route money. This may have left you feeling opportunities are for others. Trade work may or may not be your calling. Explore multiple opportunities and start them with a college education! The challange is to find your talent and interests without limitations and apply them. God gave you wonderful gifts. You have consistenly performed well throughout school, you know you are capable of achieving an education. You must not blame your family's financial limitations as an obstacle that is impassable. Go home and tell your parents about grants and loans. Tell them you are interested, ask them to support you. Working your way up through promotions earned through hard work is an option. It is a tough option and it is limited. Education is the key, no matter how much you do not understand this now you must trust me in telling you that a degree will open doors for you. With a degree you will have a world of opportunity to serve yourself and others. Go for it!

Courtney

First off, I would tell my high school self to get a job. College is way more expensive then I thought it was going to be. Second, hit the books. You can no longer skate by without studying, you need to actually apply yourself to get A's. Third, relax. College is fun, you will make good friends, stay up late, laugh, cry, but it is all worth it. It is scary, but you have a wonderful roommate who helps you through the struggles. She is your rock, and sometimes you tormentor, but in a good way. She keeps you grounded when you would rather be a butterfly and float from one thing to another. College will be fun. You are still connected to your family and friends from home. But you have another family down here, just as vital to your sucess as your real one. Relax, enjoy yourself, and work hard and you will do just fine.

Ramius

Knowing more about college life, I would tell my high school senior self about how true it is when "they" say that you get out what you put in. There's so many more choices to make when one is now living in a dorm, being away from the parental figures in one's life, choosing their own majors, minors and prospective classes. One has to remember to take it one day at a time, but to not be short-sighted; college is one of the last major steps of the education ladder before one is thrust into the working world, so one has to remember to make it count for all it's worth. That's not to say that one should be tenative of having fun and living a little, going out with friends and relaxing between studies, but one should try to remember what the most important reason for college is. That reason is the whole reason they left for college in the first place; to earn a good education in preperation for the rest of their life.

Bethany

If I was able to go back as a high school senior I would give myself advice on taking academics seriously. In high school I was the type of person who never studied for tests and got A's. High school was so easy for me. Coming to college, I have found that it is not that easy. You have to study or you will not do well. Because I got in the habit of not studying, I have struggled on tests. I have now realized that in order to do well, I must study, and this had been hard. I am getting better, it is just something I have had to get in the habit of doing. I did pretty well in high school and I want to do well in college, so I have to start studying more. Also, I would try to get myself to be more outgoing. Coming to college, not knowing, anyone was hard. I was a really shy person. I eventually opened up and have made a lot of friends, but in the beginning it was hard. So I would try to make myself get out of my comfort zone as a senior.

Sylvania

If I could go back in time to give myself advice knowing what I know now I would tell myself to not give up. I would tell myself that college life isn't easy and it's hard to get the money you need for school but if you give up you won't get anywhere in life. I would also tell myself to enjoy the time you have as a senior because when you make the transition from high school to college it's a whole different world. I would say to myself, " Work hard and don't give up on your college dreams and take the time to stop and enjoy what time you have left in high school. " That is what i would say to myself if I had the chance to go back in time and talk to myself as a senior.

Kathleen

Confidence, thankfulness and endurance, the three words I would emphasize while talking to myself in high school. College is completely different world. Good grades come from hard work and desire to succeed. In high school I always looked at myself as an average student, someone who would never really get the as I always wanted. In college I realized with time management and confidence, I can tackle any syllabus handed to me. To attend college is something only a small percentage of people on earth get the opportunity to do. I would tell myself in high school to be thankful for all of the hard work my parents, teachers and friends have put into me. There are some people that could only dream of going to college and here I am living the dream, it is truly a blessing. Endurance, with school work, attendance and scholarships. I know I could have gotten more money for school if I had tried harder my senior year. Luckily I have adapted to the college life and endurance is something I have been able to achieve. The gift of education is priceless, and I am blessed enough to have been given exactly that.

Stephanie

As a high school senior, I had two friends and a boyfriend because I refused to talk to anyone who was involved in partying and drinking on the weekends. I also didnt participate in many of the activities because many of these students would. When I thought about college, I made myself believe that my only option was the local community college or SAU which is a local Christian Private school. I didn't seek other possibilities to where I could go for a higher education and college life experience. I also didn't look to others for financial aid or how to find out the expenses of college. Now I am into my first year of college and I am close to over my head with loans. If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to look for colleges that best fit me and find someone who can help me with the financial aspect. However, because we can not physically go back in time, I'm doing it right this time around, searching colleges that fit my personality and my needs and getting a better grasp on the financial end of college.

Allison

Transitioning into college can be difficult for freshmen students and if I could go back to myself as a high school student I would have a few things to say that would probably have helped my transition. One of the pieces of advice would be that you do not need to bring everything you own! The items that you use at home will be the ones that you use at school. You only need to bring what you need and important possessions. A second piece of advice would be to save your money. Sometimes it can be hard to get a job during college and saving money can allow you to still have fun with your new friends you will make. Don't spend your money on useless purchases because it is easy to go broke. The last piece of advice I would give is to not worry. Situations always turn out how they're supposed to and it's not good to worry about something that you can't control. Have fun in college, but also make sure you are focusing on education as well. Social life is very important, but you're paying for your education.

Dewayne

I would tell myself that you need to start getting your finances together right now. I would make sure that I told myself to focus on grades more than girls, for they come and go with the wind. I will tell myself that you are a bright, intelligent, and driven young man, who is going to succeed in anything that you put your mind towards. I would tell myself to start applying for scholarships as soon as the school year started, using websites such as fastweb, zinch, and cappex as my resources. I would tell myself to really buckle down right now because in college it is easy to get off focus given that you have so much free time. I would tell myself to read more, to study more, to pray more. I would say, " I know that the media portrays college to be one big party, and it can be, but that I'm not going to college for that. I'm going to make a dent into society. I would tell myself to get connected with as many people as you can so that you can network because its not what you know its who you know."

Jessica

I would tell myself to stay strong and not lose confidence. Stepping out of high school and into college is a big transition. I would also tell myself to stay focused and not fall into the party lifestyle that surrounds the college experience. If you become discouraged or confused about what you are wanting to do in college, talk to someone instead of keepin it all in. Use your guidance counselors. Stay ahead of the game with scholarships and class registration. Do not slack off and fall behind in your studies, you will regret it. Dont be embarrassed to ask questions, everyone else is thinking the same thing. Find your inner confidence and don't lose it, you will need it to survive the college and all that comes along with it. Do what it takes to be successful no matter what anyone expects of you. Strive to succeed on your own, don't let your friends encourage bad decisions. Step back for a minute and really think about what it is you want out of life and go after it!!!

Linda

Preparation Equals Success I know it is hard for you to imagine that there can be anything more important in your life right now then going out on a date friday night, or getting just the right dress for prom, but allow me to shed some light on your future. I know how much fun high school can be...I've been there, I've done that. Yet, as much fun as you are having with your friends now, it will all come to a screeching halt once you goto college. The classes that you breezed through and found to be too boring to put much thought into will all of a sudden become the focus of your college career. I don't want to seem like I am preaching to you like your parents, because I didn't listen to them either. But, from me to, well me... I have to level with you - they are right. The time you take now to focus on your homework, and start to think about what you would like to do as a career for the rest of your life will save you much sorrow in the future. Remember, preparation equals success.

Ethan

The values you now possess are not as self engrained as you may think they are. Don?t go to college thinking you already know who you are and that you can?t change because of that. Accept that you are not happy with yourself and that the things which matter most won?t matter in the same depth later on. Don?t anticipate the problems you will have in college, for they will not coincide with the struggles you are having now. Your environment changes and therefore the way you learn and the awareness of what you have learned also changes. Today you look at yourself through the eyes of what you have experienced this far, but tomorrow you will see life not only through your eyes, but through the eyes of everyone you encounter. Be observant and slow to speak. But don?t let that be an excuse for not speaking at all. Finally, make learning, not grading, the most important thing. Thats how college differs from any other schooling you have had this far. College isn?t about fooling others into thinking you are learning, its about learning how to learn for the rest of your life.

Elizabeth

As a high school senior, I got in habits of procrastinating and allowing "senioritis" to settle in. When it came time for my freshman year of college, it was a hard transition in managing my time well. Due to procrastination, I also became stressed very easily. I focused more on my athletics than on my academics, and I considered my sport to be first priority. I had no idea who I wanted to be and I never thought about the future. If I could go back and talk to myself, I would first tell myself to start good studying habits now, because it makes college that much easier. I would tell myself to carry a daily planner and to write EVERYTHING down. I would remind myself that although you can learn from sports, academics are more important for your future. Lastly, I would tell myself to set goals for the future and to not simply believe something because its what your parents taught you. I would tell myself to write down my thoughts and goals so I could see how I have grown and the changes that have taken place in my life and in my heart.

Caitlin

In retrospect, it would be beneficial to know that time management is important as a college freshman. I would tell myself that it is necessary to decide what is most important and prioritize my day based on these areas. The three that come to mind are academics, friendships, and personal time. Academically, a perfect grade point average is not as easily attained as it once was. An apportioned time to work solely on homework is necessary so as not to procrastinate. Know that it is perfectly acceptable to go to bed early as not every invitation must be accepted. Forming new friendships is exciting, but there is much time for that. However, it is important to allot time specifically for friends and relaxation. It is crucial to take mental and physical health into consideration as well. Time to oneself is of great value in the midst of community. Taking the areas of life I value most-- academics, friendships, and personal time-- life is more effectively balanced in managing time wisely.

Sarah

I would tell myself make sure you know what you want to major in. Do research about the field that you want to go into. Make sure that you count the costs. College is an investment in your future so make the best of it. Know that you can accomplish great things if you pursue them .Whatever you do make sure that you are passionate about it. Pursue the best career choice for you. As far as social life, have fun but remember you are paying to get educated. You are working towards a goal of graduating with a degree. If you complete school with the best of your ability you can have access to more options, thus you can acquire more wealth. As a side note, I would warn you, be prepared to make negotiations with your roommate. Bring shower shoes and a caddy, they are absolutely a necessity. As far as books go, check out the prices online. Save what little money you can, even if its five dollars a week, every little bit counts. Get adequate sleep and tackle your homework before you socialize. Trust me I know you. Do not procrastinate because you will be stressed!

Rachel

I would first tell myself to calm down! In high school, college is an extremely intimidating idea. It?s hard to choose where to go and what to go into. It is also intimidating to think that you will have to leave home and make all new friends. However, college is not nearly as scary as it seems. People seem to be on a more even playing field than they were in high school. In college kids are becoming adults and there is a lot less of the stereotypes and cliques, everyone comes in at the same level. Also, the actual academic work load is a lot heavier than high school but not necessarily harder. Just keep working hard and doing what you are doing and you will do fine. Do not be so worried about getting an A that you miss out on opportunities to make memories and lifelong friends.

Keegan

My high school never put a lot of emphasis on AP classes. The teachers that taught the AP classes obviously didn't want to, and many people didn't even pass the AP exams. Knowing this, I easily chose not to take any. Looking back though, I wish I would have. Many of my friends have come into their first year of college with sophomore credit. Also, I would definitely advise myself to take advantage of dual enrollment. What's better than free college classes? Take the general education classes, especially if you know what you want to go into. Along with that, if you know what you with your life, start early. I'm going into graphic design and photography, and I bought my first iMac and DSLR camera in high school, but honestly I should have done more. Why not come in with experience and even maybe a name for myself? The biggest thing is don't wait until college to pursue your dream. Take advantage of what high schools have to offer for college credit.

Victoria

If I had the chance to give myself advice before I went to college, I would tell myself that college is different. You have to make sure to manage your time correctly in order to get everything done, but college is not just about studying. You have to keep your eyes and ears open for opportunties, because there are a multitude of them just waiting to be explored but they won't come knocking on your door by themselves. You have to pay attention to your classes, but you also have to pay attention to the people and events around you because there are some really awesome people and some life-changing events that can help take you in the direction you want to go as long as you're paying attention. Don't be afraid to do whatever you want and whatever you can think of, because college is when the rest of your life starts, and you can choose any path you like.

Casey

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, knowing what I know now, I would have a lot of advice. First off, regardless of the fact that I had acceptable grades, I would advise myself to take the extra courses offered instead of just doing what had to be done. I would address the fact that my social life was not as important as it seemed to be then. Most importantly I would tell myself to take advantage of the programs and people available within the school in order to gain a better understanding of what college expected of me thus spending more time with the school counselor discussing the options available and applying for every scholarship possible. I would stress that it is important to study and be prepared for the SAT because it could save me money in the long run. To sum it up, I would tell myself that I dont know everything and that I should really pay attention to the advice I was receiving and that these people were right, life is hard but college can open many doors.

Kayla

My high school moments were fun and full of memories. If I could give my high school self advice, being the college student I am today, I would tell my seft to save every penny I earned. I would also tell myself not to stress so much about the future and have a little bit of fun. But the most valuable piece of knowlege I would give myselft is the following statement, "In the end everything will work out if one works hard and is determined to achieve one's goal."

Aimee

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, there is only one piece of advice I would give: do not be afraid of college! As a senior, I was afraid of the future and unsure of what college would be like. How much homework will I have? How tough will my professors be? What if I choose the wrong major? I was afraid of the unknown and unsure about my abilities. Presently, as a college Junior, I look back and I?m proud of how far I?ve come and how well I?ve done. I absolutely love my school, my professors, and I?ve maintained a high GPA. College is so meaningful, enjoyable, and beneficial. Yes, there is more work involved and professors can be tough, but I am doing well because I enjoy what I am studying. My advice to others in high school is to make sure to work with academic advisors to assist in finding the right major and career pathway. Once you find the major that is right for you, everything just falls into place, classes become more meaningful and enjoyable and the years simply fly by.

Jacquelyn

As a high school senior, I was prepared for college. Determined to achieve academic excellence. I was prepared to go all the way; a doctorate in psychology. I had a plan, a plan that was both practical and economically fool-proof. That is, until I stepped into the real world. I would tell myself then, knowing what I know now, to take it slow - take it all in. Don't take it all so seriously; enjoy it and don't get burned out. You don't have to do it all yourself. Working full-time and a full-time class load while living independantly is not necessary. Allow your parents to care for you, allow yourself to be a college student . You will have plenty of time to proclaim independance - after this journey.

Britney

I would tell myself to really focus on time management and study time. Also make sure i keep my grades up and really improve my study skills.

Joshua

I would have told myself that life is much larger than the small town you grew up in. Stepping out into college means your stepping out into the real world. Do not make a decision based on relationships from highschool, friends, or money. Josh, you need to give yourself time to learn who you are, what you want, and most importantly, what God wants for your life. Josh you should have worried about money less when you were selecting to go to college. I know that you went to community college thinking you were trying to save money, but really you were limiting yourself. Do not ever limit yourself again on perseption of the small world you grew up in. Know that you can go out and do things that can change the lives of hundreds of people. Josh, tell y ourself that you are worth more than just living in a small town. You have control over your future. Make your decisions, and make them proudly. No more second guessing! Live a life that shows you are living for something greater.

Duncan

If I could go back and talk to the high school version of myself, I would tell myself not to worry about the opinions of other people. I would say that I needed to follow my heart and do what I feel is right. The other thing I would tell myself would be to take more AP classes for college credit. It is better to take harder classes is high school to prepare myself for college. Also I would say to start saving money for college to avoid getting into debt. It will be (or would have been) much better to pay for school as you go instead of using loans and paying later. Finally, I would tell myself to take my faith more seriously. I should never do anything in order to "just get by." Rather I should be working to excell in all areas of life.

Nicole

Dear self, You're a senior in high school and really excited to finally "get outta this place!" But, you've got to remember that college life, is not this life. You need to decide who you want to be now and be that person. Don't slack, this is your life. It's better to give 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of your effort 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of the time than give anything less than that. Make sure you have all your ducks in a row, but there's no need to get stressed out because it will only inhibit the work that you want to accomplish. Know that there are people who love you no matter what and they don't want to see you go, but you'll be just fine. Homesicknes is TOTALLY normal and it will pass with time and more friends. There is a season for everything in life and always remember that everything will be just fine. Sincerely, Yourself

Katherine

Dear Katy, The advice I want to give you before you make a decision to go to college, is that you should be involved as much as you can. There are many opportunities to make friends, if you are social enough to go to events that bring the students together. I highly suggest doing this! I also suggest using your resources to find out about as many clubs, organizations, and extra-curricular activities as you can. This will help you feel connected to the college, and make cool friends along the way! If you need help concentration on homework, I suggest going somewhere quiet to study. There are many quiet places on campus, if you know where to go. That is another thing, do not be afraid to ask questions! There will always be someone friendly to help you out. The best advice I can give you is to have fun and enjoy the experience!

Sabrina

They say that hindsight is 20/20. Looking back on my high school self I can see how true that statement is. As a high school senior I was pretty stable; I was not the smartest student but I graduated with a GPA upward of 3.5. I didn't ditch class and I turned in all of my homework. However, if I could go back I would do things a little bit differently. I would tell myself that school is important, but so is building relationships. Getting involved with floor activities even when you might not feel like it will go a long way in cultivating friendships that could last for the rest of your life. Also I would tell myself to get involved with on campus activities or organizations! It is so much harder when you are older to begin getting involved; establish yourself early and get rooted in a group. My last piece of advice would be to stay on top of studies and don't fall even the slightest bit behind because it is nearly impossible to catch up without being stressed to the max. Good planning with make school more enjoyable.