Syracuse University Top Questions

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

Kadesja

If I could go back in time and talk to myself, I would advise myself to take all the advise given to me seriously. I would advise myself to take time seriously because time is one of many things you can not get back, so my advise would be to manage it wisely. I ignored so much when I was younger and I took alot for granteed like money, time, and open opportunities. I would tell kadesja to budget, save, and manage. Do not ignore help or open opportunies because time is not ment to waist; you can not get time back you can not pause life, so make the most of it seriously. Also one last important thing to tell myself would be to never dwell in the past, no matter how life changing or drastic it may be or may have been, just keep moving foward. If it were me telling myself this in the past, I probably would have taken it more seriously instead of learning it out the hardest way. I lived it and learned it now I wish I could really go back and change my mind set and outlook on life.

Alana

This advice would be extremely simple: Stay calm and enjoy every moment.About two years ago, the car was completely packed from bottom to top with clothing, books, and storage units. Tears were streaming down my face and my heart was beating a hundred milers per minute. I was terrified at the first glance of my freshman dorm. I heard the calming words of my parents that everything was going to work out; yet, I knew this was a huge step in my life, and, I was fearful.After I unpacked and walked around campus, I took a deep breath. Everything was perfectly fine. I was having the time of my life and enjoying the various activities Syracuse University had during this transition week.There is nothing like the first week of freshman year. Each activity is planned for each individual to feel comfortable and welcomed to the university. Meeting other students during this week created friendships that will last a lifetime.The thought of saying goodbye to my parents gave me the same uneasy feeling I had when I initially approached the campus. However, this time I remembered to relax, and smile for the genuine happiness I felt.

Owen

I would tell myself to understand that now is when you really are responsible for your actions and their consequences. Now you find your calling, what you will do with the rest of your life. Now your parents don't answer for you all the time. Now you mature and shape your future, its literally in your hands. If you want success you will have to make sacrifices, but these sacrifices now will pay off in the future, trust me. College is the most amazing experience, you find yourself and friends that you will keep for a long time. Make the best of it. Make it your own amazing experience. It may seem long, but four years go by quite fast. High school was fun, but now its up to yo to do whatever you want. Moreover, whatever you do make sure it helps others as well. Service to others will always be a virtue that you must strive for. Try to aid as many people as you can, it could have a domino effect and youll make a small change in our very selfish society. Get ready.

Samuel

I would tell myself to study harder in high school and focus more time on schoolwork. I pretty much coasted through high school without much effort and I think that hurt me once I got to college. The material you learn in college is much more specific and takes much more time and effort to understand. I think that had I studied more in high school and put more effort into my schoolwork, I would have been better prepared for the workload in college and would havea done a lot better my first semester.

Jarian

Time management is key to college success. People get so caught up on living on their own and the envrionment of college. You have to learn to stay focus and do well. There are a lot of distractions that can get you away from your school work. So the biggest thing to remember is time management.

Tiara

Out of all four years of high school, my senior year was the most stressful one. I’ve always thought it would be so relaxing and that there wasn’t going to be much work involved. But I was wrong because I was in the process of applying for colleges and I didn’t realize how stressful it was going to be. Now that I’m in my second year of college knowing what I know now I would tell myself that my college career is going to be what I make it. I would tell myself to be prepared to witness yourself grow, experience and learn. Before I would tell myself these things, the word of advice I would give myself is to be open-minded. Right now I realize that there is so much more in my college life that I need to take a chance with but don’t see myself doing because I'm afraid of being rejected. Which makes me want to go back and tell myself to always take a chance and don’t be afraid to at least try!

Ismelda

Come to college with an open mind but most important an open heart. You are bound to find people you like but sometimes you find people you don't like. Don't let that get to you because suc is life! Make the best out of your four years there!

Erin

Take the AP Language and Comp exam--study for it, then challenge it. It will save you time and frustration. Also, get as much sleep as you can while you have the chance. Remember that no matter how much you think you'll use your sewing machine, it's not going to be used for anything other than a box upon which you rest your feet, so why bother bringing it? Remember to always say things in your head before you say them out loud. And, above all, don't forget that it's totally okay to flat-out let go of high school. You're not there any more. College is a whole different animal. P.S. Stop procrastinating on all those projects you said you would do! Get them done while you can!

Ailin

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to get familiar with the college process and start talking to college advisors to see what school is right for me according to what I want to do and start seeing what classes i should take in college and try to do dual enrollement so I could be a step ahead and to prepare myself for college.

Taylor

If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to save money. Although I saved a lot in Highschool and worked multiple jobs, college is expensive. Sometimes when I am here I stress out about it because I know what it is like to struggle and I get nervous, but as a senior I couldve found more ways to save. On the other hand, I would tell myself to never turn away from colleges because there are a lot of options and financial aid. I always stressed out about how I would pay for it, but now being here the experience is remarkable and is priceless. I have top notch education, friends, and activities I could never forget. I came to a school so different from my High School and it was the best option by far. I have so much opportunity. As a senior I was nervous about leaving my family and friends behind, but now that Im here I realized that it was all worth it and that they will always be there and that I just have to enjoy the time spent and embrace every moment of life.

Yunxin

If was a high school senior now, I would research different universities and learn about prospective programs I can join as the first step. Other than the size of the university, the quality of faculty and staff, the diversity of student body, the campus environment etc., there are a lot of other things I can do as a senior to increase my chance to get into a dream university and make my college life smoother. AP Credits: I would learn about the curriculum requirements of my dream program in the university especially AP credit policy. Taking AP courses to waive college credits would make the college life much easier. With a lot of AP credits earned, I can possibly graduate from college early. Reach out and be active: I would actively contact professors of my dream college to ask if I can get involved in research projects as a volunteer to gain experience. If any professor accepts my offer, the research projects would allow me to gain professional experience, boost my resume, and possibly get me a letter of recommendation from the professor as an insider of the university I am applying to.

Sarah

I would say I should have enrolled in some Advanced Placement courses so that I would not have had to take so many General Education courses when I came to college. Taking advanced placement courses in high school would ave also allowed me to become more future career focused because I would have had more time to explore other jobs for the future. I wish I could have been more involved sport wise in high school so I could get more scholarship in college, also so I could possibly get onto a division 1 sports team, here.

Carley

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself the college transition is difficult but worth every tear. I had a particularly hard time leaving my friends and family at home. I was ready to come home throughout my entire first semester. I was doing well in school, but I failed to appreciate the friendships that were developing right before my eyes and the elite education I was being provided with. I was confident I could make it anywhere, so I didn’t need to be in Syracuse and away from my family. I remember one day I was sitting in my room when I had this moment where I thought, “I’m okay. I have friends here. They are my family away from home. I’m happy, and I don’t want to leave.” I felt such relief. Getting through the hardship was the best decision I ever made. I always tell my parents that making me stay in Syracuse and putting me through that “torture” was the greatest thing they ever did for me. The struggle made me stronger and appreciate life more.

Brittney

Senior year of high school was definitely a pivotal time in my life when it came to the shaping of my future. I was lost and had no direction in life during this year. I just knew that I had to go to the same prestegious univiersity that my brothers attended just so I could say I went there. Had I done that, I would have disregarded my true passion which is designing. After going to the perfect university for me and majoring in jewelry design and metalsmithing, I've learned not to sweat the smaller and little things in life. Sometimes events occur that are beyond our control and when we stand up to them and face them head on, the odds often turn out to work in our favor. My advice to my younger self would be to live each day as if it were the last one and not worry about the negative aspects of tomorrow, just focus on the positives and know that there is a plan already mapped out for us. Have faith and be strong, you will get through it and be very pleased with the outcome

kamille

Stay focused..Time management is key..Go to all your classes...aim to find a Balnce and most importantly Take advantage of every opportunity ..You control how much you succeed

Keyla

If I were to go back in time and see myself face to face with my senior self I would appreciate the opportunity to tell them everything I have learned. I would tell myself not to worry, to appreciate the little things in life and tell them that senior year only comes once. I would also tell myself that I have to plan for college and my schedule before school starts so that I can be prepared. Although this should be done in moderation, because letting it run your life and thinking about it every second will only cause stress. College is not scary; in fact it is an opportunity that is worth wild. So take small steps and make a schedule so that the rush won’t bring me down. I would tell my senior self that I can achieve whatever is in my grasp, that everything will be okay, and to "keep my head up high and my shoulders back" like my mother would always tell me. Enjoy the last moment in life where you can call yourself a high schooler because being in high school should be the memories your cherish. Live them to the fullest.

Chantal

College will be your time and place for growth, it will be very difficult but even if you are 3,000 miles away from home turn your moments of insecurity, stress and disillusions into motivation. Those moments are natural, college is not what you hear or what you've seen. Your college experience belongs to you, you write your own daily journal. When you feel out of place remember you are there to prove to yourself that you can be great and do great with the education you obtain. You will not only be the one scared, alone, and hopeless-resources are there. Even if no one says they are proud, make sure you take in that you were dedicated, courageous and intelligent to reach past the sky's limit. The most imporant thing is to be proud of yourself, you are a dreamer rising from hopeless family home, a mediocre high school where staff encourage community college. Know that you are a sucess story, but stay hard working. Just know that anytime you feel like giving up, you'll give up on a dream that will serve someone like you one day.

Marcia

To my high school self: I highly advise you to expore as many clubs and activities as you are can. It is the best way to meet people and make friends. Also make more study groups with your classmates. College is more challenging and more work than high school. It would help to form a study group in your classes to split up the reading. It also will help to study for exams with other people to gain what they have taken from the lectures and what they think the profesor will ask.

Dee

I'd tell myself to make the most of very opportunity. It's not enough to show up to class and do well academically. It's also not enough to do extracurriculars. College isn't high school and it takes much more than that to do well. Find a few mentors, make meaningful connections, network with professionals in your field, engage influential faculty, and be selective when applying and choosing internships. These are the activites that will make your time in college worth it.

Madeleine

"Take a deep breath, everything will turn out perfectly," is the first thing I would say to my high school senior self. The college process was particularly stressful for me for many reasons, however everything that I was worried about has been solved and worked out in ways that I never would have imagined. I would also suggest taking time to have fun and steping away from the books every so often. I spent so much of my first semester working both on school work and at my job with very little play time and by winter break I was completely burnt out. Although your priority is school, none of the information sinks in unless you have time to relax and have fun. That time away from the books is when you are able to process what you've learned and apply it to your life. Also, spend the summer connecting and bonding with your loved ones at home, college can get extremely stressful and scary and it is important to have a strong net back at home to catch you if you fall, especially freshmen year when all of your relationships are new and unsteady.

Allison

Listen to Momma Bear when she tells you to use a planner. Also, make sure to make a lot of friends in a lot of places. People will get on your nerves and sometimes you need to vent. Nothing lasts forever, Ali, and sometimes you have to let go of people if they are dragging you down. There is no use crying over someone every night because they've left you behind. Most imporantly, college isn't just about the grades, it's about the experiences that you have.

Alexandra

Being Puerto Rican born and raised very highly on our cultural values, I would tell young me to think things through. College is not only about the education you're receiving, but also about the transition and the emotional move one makes by picking up belongings and moving to a whole new place. Our languagues differ and a cultural clash exists. My best piece of advice to young me is: Know that you are prepared to wake up the next day in a whole new place, maybe a bit lost, but ready to take on whatever comes your way. Don't be afraid, but be aware; college is what you make out of it, and it will only be an enjoyable time if you allow yourself to have it. Balance things out well, and broaden your horizons-- think about your happiness. If you're comfortable with the step, and ready to take on new challenges, college will be the time of your life. Get ready mi vida, life is about to change, but if you trust yourself, all will go just as planned.

Andre

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior knowing what I know now about college life and making the transition I would tell myself to NOT party as much as I did freshmen year. I still had a good GPA around a 3.1 but I just was enjoying myself to much. If I didn’t party as much my GPA could have been at least a 3.5 or higher and this would help me down the road. Many internships and companies put an emphasis on GPA and before they see you they see your GPA so you want to make sure it is as high as possible. By receiving a 3.1 I limited myself from other opportunities I could have done. I would also tell myself to network day one of school and talk to people in the industry you are interested in. I often spent too much time listening to my friends interests and this didn’t help me because they are just as confused as I am at that point.

Chloe

If I had the oppurtunity to go back in time and talk to my high school senior self, there are many things that I would say. One of the biggest lessons that I've learned during my first year at college is learning how to be frugal. I unfortunately learned the hard way. It seems so simple to swipe your card and get a venti mocha here and a slice of pizza there, but it all adds up one way or another. As of today, I have $1.03 to my name. Managing money is hard, but college has forced me to do so. It was a real eye-opener. Furthermore, I learned how to manage my time. This is probably one of the most important aspects of being in college because there are no longer parents and teachers constantly reminding you to do your work and when assignments are due. If you miss a deadline, it's your own fault. You don't get a chance to make up tests or assignments, and professors will not take the time to pity you. College gives you independence, but it also forces you to be responsible. Learn to be responsible.

Brian

If I could go back into time, I would have told myself to bring more toothpaste. More toothpaste and other expendable items like Hot Cheetos or cans of Mountain Dew. These non-reusable items add up insurmountably over the course of the school year. And most college students are either too cheap or too lazy to go out and buy them on their own. Also, I would advise myself to eat healthy BEFORE going to college - because you sure aren't going to be eating healthy on the school's all you can eat cafeteria buffet line. It's just not possible. Also, appreciate your bathrooms. At home, at least they're clean, there's toilet paper, and there probably isn't a fellow student's underwear on the toilet handle. Be thankful. Be happy. But mostly be thankful. I would have told myself to chill. Relax. You're going to college. It will all be okay.

DAVID

If I could go back and talk to myself, i would tell myself to not slack off, to fill out more scholarships, and to play less videogames. Also make sure to apply early and save up your money. If you do all of that and keep your grades up you will be able to go far and not make mom pay out as much money as you go through college.

Nina

Thinking back to how nervous I was about attending Syracuse University in my senior year makes me wonder why I ever felt that way. If I could go back in time, I'd tell myself to stay calm and relax. College is challenging but it's manageable. The teachers don't baby their students like they did in high school, but they want to see the class perform well and they will make time to help everyone. As long as you do your work everything will turn out well in the end. Keep in mind there are plenty of resources available. Every first year student that you meet feels the same way you do; they're anxious and excited. This will be the common thread that brings you closer together with your peers. Since everyone is going through similar experiences, take time to get to know everyone to figure things out together. Socialize with one another because it is worth it in the end to have special friendships made. Yes, it's scary at first to be in a new environment, but having someone to talk to will make things easier. There is always a group for everyone at SU.

Elora

I would tell myself not to enter college with any expectations. When starting my freshman year, I had a very concrete idea of what I expected college to be like. I would have engaging, small classes, professors that I would develop close relationships with, best friends that I would spend all night drinking wine and discussing politics and deep aspects of life with, and an experience that would be unbeatable. Nothing, of course, is the same in reality as it is in people's heads, and when my college experience turned out to be much different than what I had pictured, I didn't know how to handle it. I was completely set on carving out this perfect experience for myself, instead of remaining open to everything and everyone I encountered and making the best of what I had. I would tell myself not to focus on having the perfect experience and instead focus on trying new things and giving new people a chance, I would have been much happier freshman year.

Kayla

The advice I would give myself is to not listen to other people and follow my own dreams, not theirs.

Brittany

In high school and my first year of college, I was only very focused on two things: academics and my group of friends. If I could give my high school self advice for college, I would tell her to get as involved as possible her first year and to make as many friends as she can. I only joined one or two clubs in high school, and in college I was working so hard on my grades that I didn't have time to join clubs that interested me. This kept me from having many different circles of friends. Instead, I have one group of friends and a few singular friends outside of the group. Now I realize that I needed to meet people that share my interests in certain clubs. That way, I am not relying on one group of friends to always be there for me when I need them, but I have my time filled up with my involvement in my school and its activities. So I would advise my high school self to never sacrifice her interests just to spend time with one group of people, because they may not always be there.

Julia

If I could go back in time and talk to my high school senior year self, I would tell her to get involved in as many clubs as possible. The best way to transition into a new and somewhat frightening environment such as college is to put yourself out there and meet as many new people as you can. That way she could forge new bonds with people who are different from her. I would also tell her to remain in contact with old high school friends because some of those people will be there for her throughout the rest of her life.

Rache

Rachel, just remember that college is for furthering your education and not just partying. Sure, you want to have fun and enjoy college while you can, but stay out of trouble. It is possible to have a blast and be a good student. Be careful about the people you hang out with, because you will be and act like your friends. Be a good friend to others and encourage them to work hard and achieve their goals. Uphold good character, and remember the golden rule. Today, the world tells you to do everything for yourself, and in fact you should not neglect yourself, but don't hurt others in the process. People will remember you by how you treated them. Be careful with your money, and don't go to the mall every weekend. You must remember that all the money you take out in loans has to be paid back after school. Above all, stay focused on your homework! Trust me, you will never regret putting your best effort into your education, but I guarantee you will regret it if you don't! The decisions you make today will affect you tomorrow and even in the years to come.

Robert

So you’re off to college, and that’s pretty cool. But get ready. Your life will never be the same again. This is an incredible stage of life, and what everyone has been telling you is true- it will be one of the best times of your life. So make the most of the moments you have, but keep your priorities straight. The most important thing for you to do right now is to learn and grow. But I’m not talking about from classrooms. I’m talking about from the world, from experiences, and from other people. Do your best to keep an open mind, and try to see things from other people’s perspectives. Question everything, think for yourself, take risks, and face your fears. Get out of your comfort zone- as often and for as long as you can. That’s where you’ll learn the most about life and yourself. Find out who you are and what makes you happy, and then enjoy yourself. Remember that bad decisions often make the best stories, but consequences are real. Life will change faster and more often than ever before, so strap in. College is a wild ride.

Kathleen

My experience of going back to college in my later twenties has given me great perspective. If I could go back in time I would tell myself to actually learn in high school. It was easy for me to skate by with As and not actually absorb any information. Having a base of knowledge in history and chemistry from highschool would have been very beneficial.

Amanda

First and foremost -- don't panic! Thinking about college can be overwhelming, because there are just so many choices to consider, and uncertainties to ponder. What will it be like? Will I be able to handle it? This is normal, and everyone experiences it. The bottom line is: You are a capable young adult, and you will be just fine. It will certainly be challenging, but it will also be truly enjoyable and rewarding. This is your time to learn what the world has to offer you, and - most importantly - to learn about yourself. College will be filled with new and exciting experiences, new places and new people, and it will be up to you to decide what your experience will be. The important thing to remember is that you don't have to have it all figured out right this minute. You can simply take it as it comes, day by day. Follow your heart and your instincts, and see where they take you. Work hard, rest and eat well, and use the plethora of resources that your campus will have available to you. They won't be hard to find. Have fun, but not TOO much. :)

Ariana

If I could go back, I would tell myself to keep pushing hard but also to relax. College is really tough, and focusing hard in high school all the way to the finish line would have been really helpful, rather than pushing myself up until maybe only May of senior year, but college is also supposed to be some of the best years of your life. If I went back, I would remind myself to keep a more open mind for the first few days, and realize that this is a big part of my life and I need to make the most of it. Despite being unable to travel back in time and tell myself what to be ready for, I feel I've made the transition quite well. :)

Ashley

I would tell myself to work hard and to never give up on something you started. do all your homework and dont even slack once because you are bound to do it again. Dont let personal issues get in the way of school, school is more important than that right now. keep looking forward to your goal and never stray away from it. Work hard and study as much as you can. Start a project as soon as it is given to you, that way you have more time to do better work. do not procrastinate and turn all your homework in on time. College is hard, harder than highschool and there will be times when you think that you will not be able to do something or finish, but don't give up because it will lead to a better carreer and life.

Marie

As a senior, I was terrified of the future. I didn't even want to tell people where I applied out of fear that I wouldn't get in or wouldn't be able to afford it. One year later, I am so glad I took the risk. I would tell my high school senior self to go for it. I'd say that no one achieves anything by hiding and missing out. I would tell myself that going to Syracuse University was the best decision of my life. I gained an irreplaceable experience, independence, confidence and lifetime friends. I'd tell myself that the friends I meet in college would save me after the loss of my father and that going away would actually help me through the ordeal I would tell myself not to be afraid of leaving and going out into the real world because I am actually a stronger person because of it. Finally, I would tell myself that everything happens for a reason. If I get accepted into my dream school, it must be because I belong there and that I should have no fear.

lacie

If I could travel back in time and talk to myself as a senior, I would say many things. The first thing I would say is to make your own decisions, not to let anyone else influence you. People would always follow what I do because I was looked upon as an idol for the younger kids. Halfway through my senior year I began letting down my guard and others influenced me more than I realized. I would slow down and focus on my studies, this way I could possibly receive some academic scholarships. When it came to looking at colleges, I would take more into consideration versus going somewhere based on looks. I went to college based on someone else wanting me to and it lead to failing classes and taking out a loan. I would definitely explore things on my own and do what I feel is right. Do it for myself so I could enjoy college as you’re supposed to. What I would give to have this information when I was a senior!

Mai

If I had the opportunity to go back to my high school senior self, I would not make many changes. The most important advice I would give is to buy more heavy jackets for the winter season. Though, I would not change a thing for many reasons. My first year is almost coming to an end and I had gained more than what I had bargained for. I was a quiet person back in high school and knowing myself, if I were to tell myself to be open and willing; chances are I would not. Just the fact that I would force it and things would not happen naturally. The experiences I had the pleasure of experiencing this year was all because I did not know what was coming for me. I took it day by day and that was what made everything exciting. It was exciting because I did not know how it was going to end, or how it would work out. I would not change a thing about that, because of that it gave me the best first year college experience I could ever ask for.

Jason

Jason, Love college, but, focus harder on your academic work, while still being balanced. Remember to work on your fitness from the start and begin a serious work out plan as soon as you arrive. Make one good friend. Order a cell phone to keep in contact with old friends.

Chelsea

In the past four months that I have been a student at Syracuse University, I have gained so much valuable experience, and this does not include learning to do my own laundry. Although four months does not seem like a very long time, so much has happened to me since I first arrived here. From my first college classes to living on my own, I have really learned a lot about myself and what I am truly capable of. Being a college student is an entirely different ball game from being a high school student, which I discovered after failing a test for the first time in my life. I have learned that the library is my second home, whether I like it or not. Although I haven't quite mastered it, I am slowly learning the art of time management, a very valuable skill. With only one semester completed, I already feel that my mind has expanded in ways I could've never imagined before. Gaining so much insight from so many different people has been of great value to me already, and its only the beginning I wouldn't dream of trading my college experiences for anything else.

Kenia

While at Syracuse University I have learned a lot about my career and what I want to do in my life, both profesionally and with my personal life as well.

Jordan

I think college taught me how to think and plan as an individual. It didn't quite give me all the tools to behave like a fully functional grown-up, but it ensured that I didn't look like a dumbass trying to figure it out . Education is essential, but towards the end of my undergraduate experience I began to realize that independence was its own education. My course-work was of course the most important part of going to Syracuse, but I learned just as much from laundry as I did from books.

Lauren

my college experience has given me more that I could have ever expected. It has challenged me academically while also giving me the enjoyment of big time athletics and meeting a variety of different people. COming from a small town, going to college was eye-opening for me. College has taught me how to take on challenges and become a better person. I never would have expected to be friends with some of the people that I am friends with. I have experienced and learned things that I never thought possibel. I wouldn't trade my experience for the world.

christine

I have learned through the many wonderful instructors at Columbus state that even though i am much older than most of the students and even some instructors, that with an instructor that loves to teach and wants people to learn that anyone can suceed. It takes a special person to be an instructor at community college, they need to have the desire to teach those who want to learn. Because of such instructors, I now believe I can finally reach my goal of becoming an RN.

Robert

I have been able to grow in ways that I did not know were possible within such a short period of time thanks to this incredible university. I have learned and grown as a person, an artist, a friend, and a student. I think that this has been such a valuable experience for me because it has opened my eyes to new subjects and ideas that I had not explored before, and has challenged me in ways I would not be able to have experienced had I not gone to Syracuse. I am constantly learning and thinking and creating on a daily basis, and the faculty has provided a nurturing and academically stimulating environment, which has enabled me to have a strong point of view regarding the world around me, and my individual work. I have learned how to live with people who have very different backgrounds than myself, and have had to figure out ways in which to find common bonds despite differences we may have. College above all has taught me the tools and foundation I need to excel in the professional world, and how to live independently as an adult through the setting of this incredible university.

Nina

So far, I have only been accepted to Syracuse University, College of Arts and Sciences. I will be attending this University in the Spring of 2011. I took a semester off so I could learn about the world around me and earn tuition money. With this time off, it has made me appreciate the value of school and how much I miss learning. I cannot wait until I enter the University of my choice. I hope with all my heart that I can win this scholarship as I have to pay for my tuition myself with no other outside help!

Elisabeth

I learned social skills valuable for life and made irreplacable friendships. I networked and worked hard to learn communication skills. I love Syracuse University and the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications! I can't wait to move to Los Angeles and work for an advertising agency.

Jennifer

I have learned to be strong about my opinions, and to be well researched in them, which allows me to portray my view in a more direct and effective way. I am still shy about this sometimes, but I believe Syracuse has provided me the tools and opportunity to make my points strong. I have no immersed myself into drinking and thrown-away weekends, and I've never felt pressured to do so at Syracuse; but then again I also had a strong will to keep away. I have seen students who don't care about studies - and this has helped me to realize what I really have here, and how I should use it to my advantage. Unfortunately, I did not see all of the wonderful opportunities available to me until my senior year (or at least not seized until then), but I am still able to make up for some lost opportunities through the help of staff and higher level courses. I don't feel I would have been offered the same courses had I gone to another school, and the information provided there is irreplaceable and, in my opinion, would not be found in any other university.