Texas A & M University-College Station Top Questions

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

Cody

I would have gone with my first choice and gone to Full Sail University for an Animation degree instead of becoming an Electrical Engineer, because it doesn't matter how much money you make if you hate your job. That I should pursue a career that I enjoy going to work and not one that I look forward to being off on the weekends and dread going back come Monday.

Mose

First of all I would tell myself that college is not as easy as high school was and to get off of my lazy butt and study once in a while instead of playing games. Plus I would have to tell myself about everything I forgot to take from home when I moved up here in the first place. But other than that I wouldn't tell myself anything else because knowing me I would ignore any other advice that someone who supposedly came from the future says and just go with the flow until the crazy person were to leave me alone

Marta

While attending James Madison High School as a high school senior, I only applied to a small amount of schools that I wished to attend. If I knew and understood college life like I do now, I would of recommended for me to apply to many different schools inorder to find the best school for my major. After researching different schools with different majors, I would be able to make an appropriate decision. I would have also applied for scholarships.

Christi

Keep up with your studies in highschool, even in the senior year. Slacking off will only put you behind in college. Stay active and eat healthy throughout your senior year so that it will be easier to stay on track once you get to college. Most importantly, apply for as many scholarships, grants, and financial aid as possible. Save money like you've never saved it before. College is really and truly not cheap. Even though you think you have things covered, you don't; there's tons and tons of hidden and unthought of expenses. Finally, have fun, enjoy life, and make sure all the people around you know how much they mean to you and your life.

Travis

Be yourself. High school is about conforming, but college is about discovering who you really want to be. And this means trying everything you can lay your hands on. I was once told that there will not be another time in my life that I will be faced with more opportunities than in college, and I believe it. Carpe Diem- sieze the day. Don't just say it because Latin makes you look smart, LIVE it. I'm going to a metal concert next month just because someone invited me. I hate metal, but I'm going because I've never been to one before, and what if I never get this opportunity again? College is a time to live life to the fullest, while learning more than you ever thought possible. Pick a degree that you are genuinely interested in, and school will soon become so interesting, you might find yourself studying because you want to. Someone else once told me that high school would be the best years of my life, but I've found that to be a load of crap. College is where you start to really live, so don't waste it.

Caroline

Contratrary to popular belief, senior year of high school is very important. I would encourage myself to continue to work hard in all of my classes, but more importantly not to take myself too seriously. Senior year is the one of the last times to be a kid and enjoy the friends that you have had since elementary school (because when you come back everyone has changed, including yourself). People change in college, it's just another stage of life. Change is not always a bad thing; change can mean making improvements to yourself and personality. Do not worry about staying in touch with everyone from high school (just pick a few that really matter). Senior year is a great time to relax and take five classes, but also to reflect on what your life has been, and what is yet to come. Never forget the mistakes you have made and the lessons you have learned, but do not be scared of the future and all it has to offer. You will make new friends that can mean the world to you after you have only known them for two weeks and a new home that means everything to you.

Lauren

I would tell myself to be open minded to new ideas, especially in the area of majors. I would want to start college with the mindset that my career path might change. That I might find something I am more passionate about in the midst of my college experience. And it is okay to have that change of heart. It would be better to accept that change and explore its possibilities than to shove it aside and not even consider it. Also, I would tell myself to be more outgoing and confident in who I am. It is intimidating being at a large university, but there is so much potential for meeting people all across the country and around the world, and creating friendships that will last a lifetime. Lastly, I would advise myself to take college one day at a time. It only lasts for four years out of our lives, and it is an experience that should be enjoyed. The sports, activities, school spirit, friends, and classroom work. Do not get so consumed with the future that you forget to enjoy today!

Tracy

If I could go back in time and talk to my high school self, I would say "learn to step outside of your comfort zone and let go of the limitations you place on yourself". I would remind myself that working hard really does pay off and I will be eternally grateful for taking the harder classes when I could have taken the easy ones instead. The classes that I had to work so hard at to pass and make good grades are the ones that benefited me because it taught me to work hard and get the results I needed. It also is great to try new things, meet new people and form relationships that last because too many friends disappear in the excitement of going to college.

Tiffany

If I had the chance to give advice to myself based on my experience being a college freshman, I would tell myself that I should work/study harder and that I should care about grades more because college is much different than high school. College is what defines your future, not so much high school. I would also tell myself to be more prepared for the college workload because I would have never thought of all the homework assignments I have to do and learn so much information about one test. In addition, I would make sure I know that 90{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of the semester grade is accounted from tests because in high school, I would get high Bs and Cs on tests and would rely on homework and quizzes to bump up my grade. Although college tests only come around once a month, that means it covers more informaion. And lasty, the most important advice is to take college seriously because it will define your future and if I work harder when I'm younger, then good things will happen in the future.

Tenisha

If i was able to go back in time i would tell myself to apply for as many scholarships as possible and strive to make good grades to to have the perfect GPA. I messed around in school and now i regret every second of it because i could have been thinking about my future instead of talking to my classmates. Till this day i am struggling on getting money for college and i waste my time working at walmart trying to get money to save for college . I know it is my fault for not thinking ahead and i dont deserve asking for help, but please help me make my future better! God Bless! - Tenisha

Jonathan

I will tell to myself to get involved with the university activities in the first 2 years. There are many groups that you can join beside fraternity that can develop not only friendship but also social experience which helps the future live, specially in your working life counting as extra curricular activities. Trying to live close to the university because you can probably have a semester with classes that you have to be there in different time during the day, this makes your day easier because you can easily go to your place in no time instead if waiting all day on campus. It will be good if you can start looking for a job since you get there because it gives you experience and also the benefit to have extra money to do whatever you need. Doing exercise whenever you have time; you can run a couple of miles, go to the gym, do some bicycling, play soccer, football, etc. This helps you in maintaining a great health and also not stress about school subjects or even work. The most important is trying to keep your schedule busy in that way you do not miss your old life style

Jeffrey

Hindsight is a luxury. While we can never go back in time to warn ourselves of the lessons living a year of college has taught us, we can learn from others experiences. This is why answering these types of questions is important. I expected the college workload to be as strenous as it is. I expected the social experiences to be as fun as they have been. However, I expected to be friends with certain types of people and not desire friendships with other types of people. I began looking for friends in college through sterotyping people but once I had transitioned into the life I'm living today, those sterotypes have been shattered. I thought, "I'll never be friends with sorority girls!" Now as I look around, a great many of my friends are in soroities. People are people no matter where you find them in college. My hindsight advice to my high-school-senior-self would be, "Lay your stereotypes down because you will soon become friends with people you never imagined. Do not waste time thinking bad about other types of people. Why? Because they might have had those same thoughts of you. Do unto others."

Jedd

Alright, you're almost done with high school! But do you really know what you want to pursue for your career? Are you really sure that what's in your head right now is what you want to study for another four years? Do you really want to work in that field for the rest of your life? I know it's confusing, with your parents' opinions and those of your friends and mentors, but I know you can figure it out if you put in some effort. Don't go to college right away. Work and earn some money, and research your ideas. Make sure that you will enjoy whatever field you decide to study and pursue. Make sure it will be financially sound, because remember--you'll have to support a family someday, right? Keep these things in mind, and you'll do great. Good luck, self!

Kimberly

You think you know everything but you don't! Be social and work HARD! It will pay of in th end.

Rachael

In high school, I believed that I was doing everything right. I was President of my graduating class, I had lots of friends, and I was involved in multiple extracurricular activities. I even gave the salutatorian speech at my graduation. However, if I could go back in time to speak to my lanky, braces-wearing, freshman self, I would say, "Just be yourself, don't make being popular your goal in life, and don't worry over what other people think about you." For four years, I was always so preoccupied with accomplishing the task of "being cool", whatever that means. Looking back, to achieve "coolness" all you really had to do was blend in. I never wore the kind of clothes that I really wanted to for fear of my peers thinking I was odd or uncool. I never auditioned for a solo in choir because that would have made me stand out and allowed people to judge me. In college, I was able to be who I wanted to be, wear what I wanted to wear. I quickly learned that being popular is way overrated and that being happy is most important. So take note, high school self!

Kristina

If I could go back in time and give myself advice about college, I would tell myself to relax and be more involved in student activities. I entered into college with the idea that lots of students have: college will be one of the hardest things you ever go through. Having this mindset influenced me to focus all my attention on just studying and not join any clubs or sign up for any community service. Not only did I miss out on all the fun, freshmen only organizations, but I truly missed volunteering. I ended up making a 4.0 and am very proud of that, but I think I could have still made all A?s and also made myself a better and more rounded person by being more involved. (I would also tell myself to not forget to take the online quiz over Thanksgiving break for Sociology class.)

Morgan

If I was able to talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to wake up; the future is closer than you think. I remember feeling like I knew it all but looking back, I realize I knew nothing and still don?t. Planning your life as a high school senior always resulted in such a closed life: the dream husband and career and starting a family. But I now recognize there is so much more to life than I ever could have imagined. What about changing the world, having incredible experiences with the people you love, figuring out who you are, and glorifying God in all of it? As you grasp the fact that you are na?ve, your path to wisdom begins. Furthermore, I would tell myself to listen to my parents as much as you refuse the idea. But, your family is an unconditional support system. No matter if your family is your father and mother or life-long friends; they are the safe arms you will need to cry in one day. I would also tell myself good luck and don?t turn down any opportunities that come your way!

Kaitlin

As an incoming freshman, I often became very homesick. Not just for my family, but my old friends, and just the feeling of safety when I was home. I think that something most seniors need to hear is that you're going to homesick, that is to be expected, so don't feel ashamed and that time will fly by and soon enough you will see your loved ones. And since I often felt lonely, I threw myself into my studies and made no time for socializing and really getting to know my school. Therefore, I would also tell myself that yes, while doing well in school is important , college is a one-time experience so enjoy it and make the best of it.

Helena

If I were to go back in time, I would tell myself a variety of important things. First of all, I would tell myself that college wasn't as easy as people say it is, it takes a lot of time and dedication! Because it takes so much time, I would tell myself to build concrete study habits and time management, as these are the keys to success in college. Second, I would tell myself to start building an independent self image, in other words to start relying on oneself rather than on others. Third and most importantely, I would tell myself that before entering college, to set my priorities straight. This will help because in college you will need to make a lot of sacrifices and sometimes that means giving up time with friends, social events, etc. Knowing these three things will help any high school students transition into college life a lot easier.

Frank

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would most definitely tell myself to have worked harder. I barely made it into the school that I did because of the poor study skills and grades I had in high school which effected my acceptance into any good colleges. Now that I've had a taste of college life, if I could come back and give advice, I would tell myself that time management is a key component and to set my priorities straight before bad things happen. If in high school, I paid attention and took notes in class, studied hard for tests, and prepared for PSAT/SAT/ACT's ahead of time, I would be able to get into any college of my choice. College is no different from high school, but the most important thing is that you find the will to work hard and not give up. If you apply the basics in high school and find a good study technique/habit then in college you'd be just fine.

Melinda

The most important advice I would have given myself as a senior in high school would be to have a very open mind and accept others' differences. Although I believe I attended a very diverse school and was accustomed to different cultures and religions, a college campus is home to even more cultures and people from around the world will become your classmates and possibly your best friends. It's important to have an open mind to their diversity because it can only increase your knowledge and understanding of the world and in turn lead to acceptance rather than hate. The only reason people feel hate towards other people is because they do not understand their differences. Being able to accept diversity is key to attending a large university.

Amanda

I would tell myself to enjoy your last year of high school and don't wish for it to go by so quickly. It is one of the best times of your life. When you get to college join an organization right away and don't be afraid to branch out and meet new people. They are all just as afraid as you. If things get tough, don't worry. Stick with it. Things will get better.

Sebastian

Although it may seem cliche, I would go back and tell myself to stay focused and not let myself get distracted by the big changes coming up in my life. Many things were about to change and no matter how hard it may seem, my future and my career are the most important. I would also tell myself to go ahead and change majors to biology from engineering and save my self the hassle of trying to figure out what it is I wanted to do with the rest of my life; becoming a doctor and a member of Doctors Without Borders helping people around the world. I would remind myself that studying medicine is a long career as well and to not let myself get to caught up in the moments but as well dont let them go because the small things are what will keep me going through these difficult times.

Jillian

I would tell myself not to be afraid. "You are going to mess up, and you are going to hate your major," I'd say, "but don't give up. Don't go against what your parents tell you just because you don't want them to say I told you so; however, don't do what they say just because they say it. Listen to them, and take their advice, but also trust in your own opinion. If you mesh the two, you'll be okay." I'd warn myself not to freak out after the first round of tests; everyone fails them because no one is as prepared as they thought they were. I'd assure myself that I would fit into Texas A&M even though I was worried about it, and that I would eventually call it home, regardless of my vow never to say that. I'd tell myself to meet as many people as possible, to hold on to good friendships and let the bad ones go, but most of all, I'd tell myself to have as much fun as possible, because college is unlike anything else in life.

Molly

If I could go back and have a conversation with my high school senior self, I would tell myself that high school does not provide you with the best days of your life! Being in college holds so much more opportunity to expand your knowledge about the world and about yourself. I would tell myself that the transition from high school is one of the best opportunities I will have and that I should look forward to a whole new world!

rocio

As a senior in high school it is hard to imagine what college will be like. Many misconceptions occur when people think about college. Moving away from home and having freedom is an exciting thing, but the experience is not to be taken lightly. As a college senior i was so excited to finally not have my mom nagging at me about homework and be able to stay up as late as i wanted. I got so caught up in the excitement, that i forgot what college is actually about, the education. When i finally got to college i was rudely awakened by classes and homework that was hard and didn't fit into my image of my super fun college life. If were able to go back in time and talk to myself, i would advise myself to be excited about college, but also not forget that college is still school, you mneed to be mentally prepared for the harder academics that approach.

Katherine

?Stop studying Kate! ? I did not receive admission into my first choice school. Most people have a second choice that would be permissible. I, however, did not. I knew I would be transferring. In order to cement my application I made the goal of achieving a 4.0 GPR. I would literally study twenty-five to thirty hours for tests. I did not just receive A?s; I got close to a 100 on everything. ?Kate, an A is an A whether it is a 90 or a 100.There is no 4.0+ !? ?Kate, classes and grades are just a minute part of the privilege of being at a University. ? I missed going on an Archeological dig one Saturday because I was afraid of getting below perfect grade on a quiz I had the coming Thursday. It was one Saturday out of sixteen that semester and the only opportunity that I have gotten to be part of uncovering our History. ?And Kate, when you go off to college, do not find your acceptance in grades. Kate, your relationships with others, community and your health are more important. And most important, is your relationship with Christ.? No one said stop.

Elisabeth

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to begin preparing now for next year's course load. I would say, "Next year's going to be tough and trying. You're going to have to study hard and focus to make the grades for professional school, but you can do it. Classes might seem intimidating at first, but you'll soon figure out that after studying the tests are hard but in no way impossible." I would go on to explain that even though Mom and Dad weren't there to watch over me, God was constantly there to guide and comfort me. My final comments would be, "Sometimes you're going to feel lonely, but in time you'll make some of the best friends and greatest memories of your life. Your relationship with God is going to grow so strong that He will become your most treasured friend. I know you're tired of high school and you don't feel like you fit in anywhere. But trust me, the world is so much bigger than high school and you will fit perfectly in college."

Morgan

Ding! Zing! I have a arrived at Lago Vista High School. Where should I start? There is so much to say. As I am released from the cramped machine so many things race through my head; friends, teachers, and school work! Wow! There is so much advice to give but I have reached the most important. Morgan, you need to be more open to new things. There are so many options in college and you should prepeare. If you see a new person this year practice introducing yourself. Start the conversation so you can feel comfortable meeting new people. What is your name? What is your College Major? What year are you? Where are you from? These are all great ways to begin the conversation that may change your life. You never know how the people you meet will impact your future. In College the shy people get left behind, so dont miss out! College is a great experience and you need to make the most of it. I believe in you, so make a difference! After leaving my highschool self I enter the time machine programmed for my return to Texas A&M University. Zip! Ding! Zing!

Stephanie

College is a LOT different from high school, and this time, I mean it. Living on your own, being in charge of your own studies, of your own well being can be a tough endeavor if you're not well prepared. Study in high school; put a real effort into learning the material and not relying on teachers to solve all of your problems. Some college professors don't care if you show up for class or not. Some expect you to read the books and learn on your own. Take AP's and earn college credit. Teachers aren't lying when they say AP's are blessings. You may avoid that 8AM class or that awful professor by earning an AP credit to get out of a class. Learn to be on top of things. In college, noone is there to watch over your back and tell you what to do. You'll need to learn how to take care of things yourself and get it done properly. Do your own research in regards to your decisions. Beating the crowd can be the difference between a great professor and a tough one. Good luck!

Ashley

College is an exciting, challenging transition from high school. When transitioning into college and completing your freshman year, one needs to take advantage of the many opportunities the university offers. Time management is the key to surviving college. There are a variety of activities in college and it can be overwhelming and a temptation for an incoming freshman. It is beneficial to develop useful time management skills before you step onto campus?having the ability to coordinate your activities and allocate time to study will help you out in the long run. Additionally, do not overload your schedule. An individual can tackle only so much, and taking too many hours as an underclassman can be stressful and time consuming. It is important to take time to exercise and unwind. Exercise can relieve stress and provide some relaxing down time. Besides time management, one should take advantage of academic opportunities. Get to know your professors. Most professors are willing to help if you take the time and effort to meet with them. Also, there are many student held organizations at any university you attend. Join a few organizations and get to know other students and faculty.

Lucas

I flung open the door powerfully and enthusiastically. Home. It was great to be back after my freshman year of college. I gave both my parents a warm embrace, then began to ramble about college life. Grades, friends, intramurals, sporting events. Within ten minutes my father asks, "Lucas, was there ever a time where you walked past a really pretty girl, and wanted to talk to her, but you didn't"? This was the most rewarding question ever asked to me. I thought about it. I thought about it far too long. I still think about it. This simple question produces an important mindset as well as the answer to this question. I advise my high school self to do not fear failure. Try anything and everything that you may have interest in. In your four years of college, you will never be confronted with so much opportunity. Take advtange of it! College life throws more curveballs than Nolan Ryan! Always be flexible and have a positive attitude. Believe in yourself. Try new things, meet new people, and live it up. Most of all, know that the biggest mistake you can make is always worrying you will make one.

Shannon

As cliche as it sounds I would tell myself that procrastination is never the way to go. All throughout highschool I skimmed by barely making the grades I needed. This was all well and good, except now I don't have the study skills I need to remotely get by. I would tell myself that it's not worth the game of flag football if it means a C on a test. Just getting by doesn't get anyone where they want to be. I would also tell myself to stick to my beliefs and don't let anyone tell me they're wrong. Figuring out how you feel and what you believe are the most important steps to figuring out who you are, and once you know who you are you can figure out who you want to surround yourself with. You are who your friends are, and that is definitely something I have learned this past year and a half.

Deen

Quick fooling around in Calculus and really learn the material, trust me it'll come in handy. Don't be arrogant, be patient with others, and remember that you can do anything you put your mind to. You are that talented.

Ashley

If I were to go back in time and give my self advice I'd probably talk about studying. In high school I rarely had to study because it wasn't needed. I knew college would be different from high school but because of all my advanced classes I figured I would only have to study a bit. I was wrongly mistaken. I had to study alot in college, and because of my inexperience in it I had to figure out the best technique for myself along the way. If I would have studied in high school I would have been able to know the best technique for me. Since I decided to not I had to figure it out during test times. Figuring out my technique along the way caused my GPA to be lower than expected. It was lower than I wanted because I didn't know what worked best for me and had to go through many trial and error tests. Knowing the correct way to study would have made my first semester a lot easier and my GPA a lot higher.

Edward

First of all, do not worry too much about choosing "the right college." Now that I am on my own, I feel like my entire life has only just begun, and I've realised that it is ultimately me who makes my life what it is, no matter where I go to school. As Ms. Frizzle would say, "Take chances, make mistakes, and GET MESSY!" Exploring the world around you, and your interests, are the ultimate education you get from the college experience. Do your best, of course, but don't hold on to things so much that you can't let go because change is a constant and vital part of my life now. And secondly, learn to prioritise and work efficiently early on! You're going to have a lot to keep up with, but when managed properly, you'll experience a freedom and exhilaration that comes from the realisation that you are making your way in the world and bettering yourself as a person at the same time. It's entirely possible to make good grades and have fun; trust me, I did it! Trust God; he'll take care of you. You're gonna do great!

Tyler

I would tell myself that i need to study more, read the chapter more carefully, and to try and make better grades. I would have taken a few more summer classes before i went off to school so that i could be even more ahead and i would not have to take as many classes through out each semester. Also i would tell myself that i need to make a schedual time list of my day to day activities so that i give myself plenty of study time.

Pedro

First of all I would hit myself in the head, make me open my eyes and realize that college is nothing like high school. Time management and studying is the key to success in college. Take a jumpstart in your classes, if you have time in the summer start knocking out our basic classes in your community college. Learn from what you want and what you need, do not underestimate anything you don't know. Learn to study in advance, if you procrastinate you are planning to fail, so don't do it. Then finally I would tell myself to never stop working hard and do everythin you can to be successful and give it everything you got at everything you do.

Kacey

When I was a graduating senior in high school I wish I could have known how happy I would be a few short months later. In High School I was less then thrilled at the prospect of attending Texas A&M University, a college with over 40,000 undergraduate students, but today I am the loudest and proudest member of the fighting Texas aggie class of 2013! I had always expected myself to attend a small liberal arts school in Texas; however, with the money issues I encountered I decided that a state school was a wiser decision. I consider these financial issues a blessing in disguise, because after being at Texas A&M for one semester I can not imagine being anywhere else. The key to happiness in college is getting involved. After joining a leadership organization within the university I fell in love with the school. College is about pushing yourself, treat every class as the most important class your taking and please GET INVOLVED! It is not the size or location of the school that shapes your next four years it is the attitude you bring with you that will make college the best experience possible.

Laura

To relax and know that there are thousands of people in your same position. Also, I would advice myself to save money where I could; yet, allow myself to have a little more fun.

Jonetta

One thing I can definately say is that its not as easy as you think. Sure you managed to get through high school fine, but don't overestimate yourself and dont underestimate the work that you're given. High school is definately very different from college, and no one will be there to hold your hand anymore. You'll be all alone out there in the world, but just because that's never really happened to you before doesn't mean you should cower away. Thats the last thing you should do. Because after all you're free now! You can enjoy life and have all kinds of wonderful experiences, just don't do anything stupid--that's the next to last thing you should do. Have fun and be sure to make friends--plenty of them!!--and always remember to keep God in your heart and in everything you do. Another important thing is to be sure to try to create your own personality; for eighteen years you've been shy, afraid to open up to the world, but you shouldn't be that way. Please accept this blessing you've been given and shape it as your own.

Sandy

Unlike high school where you can basically go to class, fall asleep, come home, watch TV, lather, rinse, repeat, and still make straight A?s, you actually have to study in college. I?m talkin? textbooks, notebooks, flashcards, PowerPoints, study groups, coffee runs, and a serious lack of quality time with your pillow. And yes, this dramatic increase in contact with academia will affect your social life. Don?t get me wrong though, your social life still has its place. Without one, you might just make those A?s. But student beware? college is not, I repeat ? NOT ? all about the grades. You learn more lessons outside of class than in the front row of a lecture hall. This is where that whole "college experience" your grandmother warned you about comes into play. Schedule some time for recreation. That means buy a planner and a pencil, and make some plans with friends - preferrably not during the time you're supposed to be in class. See a movie, do some (window) shopping, have a "chubby bunny" contest. Whatever floats your boat. Just remember, when you're done goofing off, it's back to the books! Have fun!

Andrea

If I were to go back to myself as a high school senior, my words of advice would be that first when deciding on what university to choose, defiantly visit the campus. It helps you calm any doubts about your dream school, but then also see exactly how your university functions. Universities are much different in real life than in brochures. Second, I would tell myself to utilize the professor and all the aid that they offer; any type of office hours available or tutoring sessions available for the course you may be having trouble with, or even a course you think you might have some trouble with. The tutoring sessions are especially helpful, because they are held by people or even students that have a great depth in the subject. Lastly, meet new people, with no hesitation. There are so many people at this level of education, people that will bring a new outlook on your life and defiantly help the void of being away from home. Practice some hestiation to new social situations, but defiantly meet new people. The people you meet become a network for you that can help you in many future situations.

Stephen

If I could go back in time and tell my high school self anything to make my transition to college a little bit easier, I would be sure to tell myself to put myself out there and to not be afraid of what others think. There are plenty of people at college, so if things don't work out with one person they?re sure to go well with another. I would remind myself to be vigilant when designating time for work and play. College is a time for fun and meeting friends that you will have for the rest of your life, but you also need to get the grades to have a successful career. I would remind myself that college is a privilege, and as such it can be taken away. I would tell myself to get involved and to volunteer for things. Both are necessary to further develop the characteristics that you will need throughout both your professional and private lives. I would tell myself to be a leader, but remember to acknowledge when help is needed because it will make the lives of everyone run a little smoother. Lastly, I would say remember to have fun!

Keli

High school is unbelieveably dramatic. Kids can be unforgiving and cruel. Sometimes the brightest kids have the most difficult time in high school because the pressures built up by the students around them make learning difficult. There are cliques and rules and so much pressure from parents. The advice I would give to myself is that you just have to make it through graduation. Because college is worth the wait. Learning becomes an enjoyable experience rather than a chore. You learn how to be independent, but you aren't thrown completely on your own, so you don't have to be afraid. You're still in school and still protected. But you get to make your own mistakes and learn from them. You learn how to study and pay attention. You learn responsibility--how to grocery shop for yourself, do your own laundry, cook, clean, etc. Here you will be taught how to gain the resources to make a good life for yourself. College is where you really find yourself. The most important thing you have to know is that you can make it there, and that 's where it all gets better.

Kirsten

Work hard, school is something you must take seriously at this campus in order to succeed. However, be prepared to play hard as well, for you will meet some of the best friends of your life here. Ignore high school, it is not something you should allow to hold you back, you are bigger than that town and do not let anyone make you think otherwise. However, don't change for anyone; continue to be a kind, down-to-earth, hardworking person, for your college deserves nothing less from you.

Kayla

If I could go back in time I would give myself a lot of advice. I would advise myself to research and look into more colleges so I could've made a better fit from the beginning. The hassle of attending three different colleges before finding a school that fit my needs was a waste of time but a learning experience. I wish I would have taken more time for myself and figured out what program would be best for me. Changing your major after being half way done with a program was also a waste of time other than finding out what I really wanted to go to school for. I should have used my resources better because there are plenty of career service advisors that could have helped give me a better direction in my career choice. Now that I am a graduate I am glad I went post secondary in high school and I'm proud of myself for all of my accomplishments. I can now say my goal was a success!

Martin

Everyone says the first year is difficult, which is true, but i think too much emphasis is put on the first year. there are good reasons why the first year is what you hear most about. there is a massive change that takes place between high school and college. you're out on your own and have to make your own decisions, college classes are harder than high school classes and you have to work harder, and of course you're with your friends 24/7 (which can be distracting), but what happens after the first year is over? can i just relax and coast though the rest of my time at school? NO! college is like a marathon, if you stop after the first quarter of the race and just walk the rest of the way you have no chance of winning. my goal is to graduate with a strong GPA and a good network to make job searching easier. i leave you with his advice, stay focussed. friends are important, but you are here for school so set priorities and stick with them. good luck and hopefully this time travel didn't cause a universe altering paradox.

Loriann

First off i would try not to get so caught up in the junior and seniopr moments and focus on taking more Pre-AP and AP classes or even some college courses. I went to Hammond Oliver a sub school with Bryan High that offered internships with different fields senior year. I wish i would have chosen Physical or Occupational Therapy as my internship since i know thats what i would like to do. Another thing i would like to do is taken more secondary language, i took Latin which i was very good at but i stopped at two years and can now only remember the most basic root words. Latin is a good language for anyone wanting to go in the medical field since almost all medical words are based of Latin roots along with many languages having similarities with Latin.

Raven

BE FEARLESS. College is more than a school. It is a microcosm of society where students can ?practice? their methods of influence before embracing the real world. Voice your opinions. Create a new organization. Improve the current policies. You don?t have to wait to be an alumnus to give something back. BE STRATEGIC. Whatever career you choose, research the requirements and the preparations needed for that position. YOU do it. Don?t throw it on your advisor. Create a plan or a timeline to meet your goal and follow it through. Study others who have walked the same path before you and copy their methods of success. Avoid their mistakes. BE OPEN. Befriend people who are not like you. Learn about a different culture. Communicate with those who have diverse perspectives on life. It will conquer any prejudice or stereotypical views you may have and foster more creativity by promoting the ability to look at things a different way.