Texas Christian University Top Questions

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

Danika

Factor in change. Maybe you think that college will help you grow stronger and more rooted in your current beliefs and persona, or maybe you plan for college to be your chance to make a Big Break away from the person you were before. I don't know which it will be for you; it might be both. (It will probably be both.) Regardless, when you're looking at schools, make sure to plan for change because in some way, change WILL happen. Look for schools that support a diversity of people. Look for schools that foster dialogue between different communities. Look for schools that encourage their students to interact hands-on with the world around them. Avoid schools like the plague who place too much value on group pride at the expense of cross-pollination. The worst thing you can do for yourself is to limit yourself to your 18 year-old self. Choose a school that supports who you are today, and will support who you'll be next week, next month, next year, and further on. As long as you do that, you've made a great choice.

Yazi

I want you to know that having fun and studying are important to balance out, but academics are priority. Think about it like this, Yes you will have a great time going out with friends, but that happiness will only last for that night. Although it may not be the most fun, having good grades will let you be able to have some once in a lifetime experiences that will be fun and may end up giving you a happy and stress free future. So please make it a priority to get good grades because if you don't, eventually those nights out won't be as fun because you'll know that it isn't what you should be doing and it may be the last time you get to have fun like that. You need to be the mature one out of your friends because it's your future. They may be ok with occasionally slacking off but you are different and know you can't do any slacking without failing. Listen bud you can achieve what you want, just don't let the freedom over take who you want to be in the future. YOU GOT THIS.

monica

Dear High School Self, First off, that boy who broke your heart & you're crying about right now, well guess what! Soon enough a man is gonna come along in about three years & is going to make you forget all that pain. And guess what happens over those next three years, you're going to gain A LOT of weight (freshmen 15 is real), you're going to change degrees, & don't worry you made the right choice because IT'S WHAT YOU WANT, not what your parents wanted (but listen to your parents they will always be your support system so don't take it for granted), don't listen to the doubt inside your head, you're tougher then you seem, also choose wisely in your friends some of them are going to be lasting friendships and some are only temporay (make them worth it!) & don't worry about what other people think of your racial/social/economic status that isn't what determines who you are as a person that is your character. Last but not least have faith in not only yourself but in God, every day is a fresh start, don't waste it.

Hailey

Although there seems to be no way to really prepare oneself for college, the advice I would give myself as a senior in highschool would be to challenge myself. I always took the easier route, thinking, "It's my senior year, I don't really want to work hard, and shouldn't have to." Senior year was always about doing what had to be done to graduate and get it over with. I never would have thought how that lazy behavior would affect me in college. I definitely would have told myself to take those Dual Credit classes, even if the credits didn't transfer, just so I could better prepare myself for incredibly hard college classes. Looking back, I don't necessarily regret my decisions in high school. I'm attending the university of my dreams and kept up a decent GPA despite the rough transition. I suppose if I could only say one those to my high school senior self, it would be, "Don't worry. You're going to do just fine."

Shelby

You are beyond capable. You have endless potential, it is only a matter of harnessing that potential. While academics come easily to you right now, use this time to start brushing up on your study techniques because you cannot underestimate how grueling your first semester will be if you do not. Also, do not worry yourself about fitting in. You will have countless opportunities to make friends and find your place. You have to remember that almost everyone else in your class feels the same way. Really try to focus on finding who you are as a person. This is the first time you've been out on your own and there is truly no better time to learn how you function by yourself, especially under stress. This way, you can start finding ways to constructively handle that stress before you are immersed in the adult world and really on your own. Just remember, you are capable of overcoming whatever comes your way.

Kendall

I was never a party person in high school. I was the student who would study through the night for the peace of mind to sleep with assurance and confidence for any upcoming tests or quizzes. Now, as a college student, I would tell myself as a senior in high school to value the remaining time with those dear hometown friends, the ones who, like you, will travel to new places, meet new kinds of people, and grow physically, spiritually, and emotionally in a place different from you. You will long for those easy nights of stargazing in a quiet field with those you love dearly, you will miss the friends who, with spontaneous and excited hearts, you grew so close to. However, just as much as you will miss them, know that you will make equally important and substantial new relationships that will open the horizons of your own world. To myself I would say, prepare to love; to know the love that you already have, to make new love, and most importantly, prepare to love yourself. For the first time, you will begin to recognize and shape the person you truly are; love that person.

Gabrielle

First important thing I would advise myself is to form good study habits. College is completely different than high school, there are a only a couple of classes a day and there seems to be alot of freetime. However the freetime is suppossed to be used for studying, if the class is worth three credits there should be dedicated three hours of studying for that class a day. It can be a rude awaking if you didn't really have to study in high school, so to ease the transition gain good study habits early. Apply to schools early as possible, it opens up more doors for scholarships. I made the mistake of waiting to apply to some schools and missed out on the date to receive scholarships. It's really hard to earn scholarships outside the school so apply early. Lastly, don't be afraid to try new things. College is about discovering who you are and what you want to do. I found out many new things that I loved like just by going out and trying a club or a class I was interested in taking. College is a great opportunity to learn and recieve new opportunities.

valerie

Well first off I would tell myself to apply for as many scholarships I could and just to be more proactive than I actually was. I would also tell myself that, TCU is an amazing school and I should've picked it a lot sooner than I did. I'd also say that I shouldn't be scared about being somewhere where I know no one at all, it's not as bad as it seemed at the time. I would also tell myself that going to school at TCU is the next chapter in my book and after I graduate from here, my education will allow me to make the right desicions that are the best for my future.

Karina

If I could go back to high school I would tell myself, "Going far aways isn't as scary as it seems right now." I live in New Jersey, and before this year I was a nutrition major, so there aren't a lot of schools with the option of being a certified dietician at the end of your four years, after touring around ten schools, Texas Christian University shined above the rest. So I committed to TCU, almost immediately after committing I was scared more than overjoyed about my decision. All of a sudden in three months I was moving over a thousand miles away from my friends and family. My parents tried to tell me that it wasn't a big deal, but nothing was coping me of my fear. So the time came and I went to school terrified of losing everyone that I love. But when I got here, I developed new friendships, and my ones from home were a FaceTime call away. My family has a group text that keeps everyone posted about our days, and we occasionally call one another just to talk. Moving away turned out to be a blessing, not a burdern.

Jordyn

I would tell myself to spend more time at home with my family. I love TCU and it is a great place but I do get homesick. I miss my mom and dad, my room, my bathroom, privacy, knowing the area I live in and being comfortable. I would tell myself to appreciate everything my parents do for me because soon you will have to do everything on your own. I

Courtney

Dear age 17 Courtney, as you start your senior year, work your absolutle hardest on everything. Don't blow off team practices, term papers, friends, or school events just because you are a 'senior' and you are too 'cool' for those things. In a year, you will miss many things about high school. Work as hard as you can, and never give up on your dreams. When situations get tough, stick it out and hold on until you are able to grasp success. Please, Courtney, work hard and appreciate everything, because before you know it, it will all be over. Love, Age 18 Courtney

Christopher

"Ryan, Ryan...pay attention" I would say. I would take whatever book I was reading in the back of the classroom and tell myself to pay attention. I didnt understand math, I was too smart for literature classes, and all of my foreign language teachers had emotional problems. I would tell myself to straighten up and to take all AP classes, take as many math and science classes as possible and prepare yourself for the future instead of day dreaming about it.

Mackenzie

Entering college is one of the greatest opportunities you will ever have in life. It is important to adequately prepare for the next four years to the best of your ability. To begin, remember you are going to college to get an education. Contrary to the movies, college is not just a big party. You and your parents will be paying large sums of money to attend this school. Although there are times to make friends and be social, your priority is learning. Remember, you get out of college what you put into it so be prepared to work hard. Approach classes with the attitude that you are interested in the topic even if you aren't. Trust me, it makes the class go by much more smoothly and often you will get a better grade. Although I am centering on academics, it is equally important to find a supportive friend group. I encourage you to create community within your dorm. Find a close group of friends and stick with them. Be open and willing to try new things, even if you don't really want to. At college you have a new slate, so make the most of it!

Alyssa

"Advise to A High School Senior"

Nicole

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would advise myself to focus only on school, apply to many scholarships, and be sure what path I want for the future. First, I would tell myself to focus only in school. I would tell me to work harder to get all A’s, bring up my GPA, and score higher on the SAT and ACT. I would also suggest to myself to get involve in an extracurricular activity like a club, community service, maybe a sport. The reason behind all of this: scholarships. I would also tell myself to apply for scholarships. College is expensive and unless one is rich, it’s going to hurt someone’s pocket. Tuition, books, materials, and travel expenses are high even if it is a community college. Finally, I would tell myself to be sure what it is I want to study. Knowing what one wants to do will help reduce the cost of school. For example, one would be sure what classes needs to be taken for a certain degree and won’t waste time and money in an unnecessary class.

Klairissa

Dear high school me.. you are about to start the journey of a lifetime! Here are 5 pieces of advice you HAVE to know before you get to Texas.. 1. Nobody cares who was a cheerleader, prom king, or valedictorian! There are hundreds of them here! You can do whatever you want and be whoever you want, so take advantage of that and don't be intimidated. 2. Find friends who will challenge you. You will want friends who want you to do your best in classes and friends who challenge you to live out your values. 3. Join a sorority! These girls will be your backbone and help you through anything. However, don't chain yourself just to them.. make sure you befriend girls in other sororities. They have different values and this will help you expand your own. 4. Do not be afraid of failing. You are going to fail that first chemistry exam.. it is not the end of the world! Even the smartest people in the world fail. Persevere and know that you can do this! 5. When things get tough..call your mom. She knows best and will calm you down! Sincerely, College You

Blaise

Given the opportunity to speak with my much younger self as a high school senior, I would tell him one thing, “Embrace the journey.” Many would wonder why not tell young me about the years of bad jobs, successes, heart breaks, and failures? Wouldn’t you like to save yourself all that time and fast forward? And I would say no. Though I now attend Texas Christian University, I have masters from the School of Life with a specialization in Hard-Knocks. It is not a class one attends, it is on the job training at its fullest. Young me has already begun working toward his black belt in the martial art of Tong IL Lo, and sees himself becoming a great master instructor one day. But I know what challenges he is going to face, how those change him, and where they lead him. I remember him chasing the wind. The hindsight I have allows for a different perspective young me has not earned the right to know, and will not some time. So still you ask, why not save the young one from such a hard lesson? Simple, spare him the lesson, and we never meet our wife.

Racquel

Dear you, These past four years have definitely been a journey, and the path will continue after you cross the stage. Congratulations on your achievement, scholarships, and recognitions. However, this is just the beginning! As you prepare for college, understand that reaching for your dreams, and working towards success doesn't just stop because you've made it to college. It begins once you enter! College will be the most fulfilling opportunity of your life, not just because of the higher education that you will gain, but for the friends, experiences, interests, and passions you will receive on the way. The transition going into college will be different from anything you've experienced before because college is different from anything you've experienced before. You'll learn new things, what career interests and makes you happy, and most of all: you will discover your true self! Promise that you will allow yourself to experience all of it. It will be so worth it! Stay focused, be persistent and bold, laugh a lot, be open, make connections that will last a lifetime, and spend every second making the value of this educational experience priceless! -The Future

Mariah

Get involved in something immediately. If you don't, then it gets harder to make friends.

Dustin

Last's are the most important in life. A first can shape your life, but in my opinion that last's are what you really learn from. The last's are what happens right before your consciousness changes the way you think, feel and do presently. It's the true moment of clarity and realization that there's an alternative to what was previously taking place.

Kaci

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would have a lot to say. First of all, don't take on too much at once! Pick one or two on-campus organizations and focus your energy on them instead of spreading yourself too thin. Secondly, I would say to just enjoy the experience as much as you can! College doesn't last forever, and if you take it for granted, it will be over before you know it and then you'll have to face the real world. Third, I would give anything to be able to tell myself that it is okay to change your mind. You may not know what you want to be right away and there's nothing wrong with that. Lastly, I would tell myself to take advantage of all the scholarship oppurtunities available! Student Loans add so much more stress so utilizing resources you have access to is an envaluble asset.

Lindsay

The transition from high school to college is a difficult one. Especially the transition in the level of difficulty of the school work. Looking back on my time in high school I would have took more workshops to better prepare me with studying habits, writing sytles, and basic living away from home needs. When I went to college I had no idea how to study for exams. I had never had to apply myself that much to do well in school. It was very stressful learning to studying and adapting to studying more. In high school the amount of papers I had to write were extremely limited. This was always opposite from college. If I would have had better writing and citation skills in high school I would hae felt much more prepared for college. Lastly, when I had been at college for my first few months I began to come across challenges like making a budget for costs, how to pay bills, managing time, and managing living with roommates. These were all things that I had never learned about or even talked about with others. I believe a basic life skills class as a senior would greatly help this.

Paige

If I was to give my high school self advice, I would say to listen to my parent's guidance. At the time, I presumed that they did not understand where I was coming from and I thought that what was going on in my life was extremely important. My parents told me to keep my eyes on my future and worry about things like grades, school, and building my resume. Looking back I realize that a majority of the things I thought were extremely important are absolutely irrelevant now. I spent a lot of wasted time worrying about things that are no longer important to me.

AmandaJade

I would tell myself to be open minded and to be more accepting of others. You will soon realize that there are people who are probably better at math than you are, but that is no reason to get upset. You will get homesick, but this too shall pass. As long as you get involved from the start, you will have a smooth transition into life at TCU. Be yourself when you go to college. Don't try to reinvent yourself, because your true self will come out. Lastly, start on your work ahead of time. It will build up quickly, and doing it the night before is not fun.

Richard

After completing my first full year in college, it’s hard to believe that it was just a year ago when I was taking tours of different schools and submitting college applications. I believe that being completely independent and responsible for my own well-being played a big role in the amount that I’ve changed and matured a significant amount since then. If I was given the opportunity to give a piece of advice to myself as a high school senior, I would tell me to sharpen my time management skills. In high school, I had a pretty structured life. I would wake up, my mom would make me breakfast, I would go to school and then to lacrosse practice. Maintaining a productive schedule while I was at school was my responsibility and that change is too much for some people to handle. In short, I would tell my high school self the importance of prioritizing the things in my schedule so the complete independence in college doesn’t impede my ability to life a healthy and productive lifestyle.

Shelby

If I had the opportunity to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to some time management courses and to enjoy my time in high school as much as I can. Things are so different in college that it is hard to just find time to just enjoy myself. I would tell myself to help the community more than I did and support my family. I would tell myself that senior year is not just a time to be excited for the future, but to enjoy my last year with all of my friends before I go away to a new place where none of them are.

Valerie

Attending any univeristy is a liberating privilege. I didn't understand this until I completed my first semester at TCU. I grew up in a small private school from when I was three until graduation day; being admitted to top of the line universities is expected, in fact, TCU was one of the lowest ranked attending universities out of all my fellow graduates. That's how I thought of TCU on the first day of classes, but I would soon discover I was definitely mistaken. I believe that every penny spent on tuition to this university goes toward the quality of professors (although some may argue the recent tuition influx is due to the building of a new football stadium). Determination is the easiest quality to sense in the classroom. Not only do the professors want to teach important lessons to their students, but they strive for complete understanding of the material as opposed to basic short-term memorized facts. Through their determination I understand now why a college education is required in almost every aspect of the workforce. College has proven valuable to attend because it has placed an intangible value on something I had previously considered superfluous.

Jade

TCU is a school like no other. It was my dream school since the beginning, and it continues to be. First, the campus is breathtakingly beautiful, and a joy to walk around. Then, the professors and staff are sincerely passionate about their work and the school. I've been guaranteed individual care since the start. I am close with my professors and have their cell numbers for extra help on weekends. It's been a precious support to have their guidance toward success. TCU holds a warm and generous community that extends to the city of Fort Worth. I love experiencing the school spirit (we bleed purple!) that goes along our amazing, nationally famous football team (now Rose Bowl champions!). I'm actively involved with my favorite organizations to forge my personal leadership, but also to have fun. I appreciate the resources the campus offers, whether it's our giant library, Career Services for job search, or countless inspirational speakers. The academic level is intellectually stimulating. Now, I will be graduating in a year and I feel completely ready to launch my career with great assurance that I have the knowledge, confidence, and social skills to accomplish anything I desire.

Amanda

I have gotten a great education so far and aI really look forward to the rest of the years. The professors know everyone and take the time to make your experience personal. You are not just a number.

Jamella

Having always assumed that going to college would just mean an easier way to a job, I was surprised to find that I obtained so much more. What I learned in college was how to live. Sure you go to class in order to learn, but with that comes personal responsiblity and really learning to learn from your peers and professors who you respect. In college, you learn how to live with people who you either may not like because of their lack of cleaning or may love because of your shared hobbies. In highschool, you learn how to "get by" and graduate, but in college you learn how to assert yourself as an independent human being amongst others just as scared as you are to be so far away from home. I don't believe that any other experience would have prepared me for life as a young adult venturing into the world of "being grown-up." Professors and staff, volunteer coordinators, peers at internships or in academic clubs, and tired classmates at the library frantically studying for finals all will give you life lessons that you cannot obtain in the same way anywhere else.

Ariana

My college experience thus far has been more valuable than words can explain. The wide variety of classes has allowed me to expand my perspective on the world. The freshman leadership program has made me more aware of the impact I can have on the global community. College has taught me to be myself, and that I need to like who I am. If I do not like who I am, then who will? College has given me a high self-confidence, and if that is not valuable, I do not know what is. College has given me opportunities to see my flaws and analyze and improve upon them. Everyone makes mistakes, and I can only better myself by looking at my mistakes and not repeating them in the future. College has taught me if I ignore my mistakes, it is detrimental to myself.

Caitlyn

I believe I have gotten a very valuable education out of my college experience. I have learned very beneficial life and business skills. I have also made long lasting friendships with people I have met during my time at college. I feel prepared to go out into the working world and be successful. This school has had a very positive impact on my life. The professors have been extremelly helpful and understanding and I feel like I will be able to keep in touch with them for years to come. Overall, my time at this university has been enjoyable, stimulating and educational.

Marilyn

Attending Texas Christian University has advanced my pursuit of academic excellence while allowing me to grow and develop into a leader. The quest for knowledge and the commitment to the pursuit of understanding, woven with integrity and responsibility, epitomizes my experience at TCU. Through my academic work I have been afforded a critical focus on new international frontiers and gained an acute perspective and commitment to application. I continue to seek the academic tools necessary for providing outreach to underserved people and communities. My undergraduate years at TCU represent the race for excellence, mirroring a paradigm, gaining speed and developing finesse. Fine-tuning the necessary momentum that thrusts individuals into leadership opportunities embodies the journey that TCU begins.

Sara

It is incredible when you truly realize how much you are learning in college. I never thought that I could aquire so much knowledge within a matter of months. I already feel like I am growing so much and learning so much about the world around me, more than I ever imagined. In learning in school I have also realized how important relationships are in our lives: my friends and most of all, my family. I have seen how much my mom cares about me and in turn how lucky I am to have a mom like her. In college, I have truly blossomed and learned what it will be like to be on my own. I cannot imagine a life without the knowledge and skills you attain during college. I would never be the same without it.

William

I have spent a short amount of time in college, but in this short time I have met new people from a variety of backgrounds and gained valuable skills that I can use in my field and/or career. I want to learn as much as I possibly can so that I will be a asset to my employer and not a burden. I have also learned alot about what it takes to be an adult and the responsibilites that come with the mantle.

Devon

My college experience has taught me many things both inside and outside the classroom. First and foremost, it taught me that my parents know a lot more than I had ever given them credit for. Being at TCU, which is located in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, gave me insight into the "big city life" and allowed me to better grow and understand the attraction to these big cities. On campus I have been able to be involved in as many activities as I can possibly imagine and keep up with. In addition to life outside the classroom, TCU has provided me with wonderful classroom experiences. I struggle with some pretty serious health issues, and that is why I chose a smaller school where I wouldn't just be a number and TCU has lived up to my expectations. Faculty has been kind and accomodating for all of my 3 years here, and I could not have expected more. On top of that TCU has provided me a wonderful education and helped me get a job already with a major engineering firm in the community. TCU definitely offers the full package.

B

My college experience fostered the deveiopment of my own authentic thoughts/ideas, a broader perspective of issues within my own environment, as well as global issues. I am now able to function as a positive, productive citizen within American society, with the ambition to continue to grow and develop into a more knowledgable global citizen. Attending college has provided me with skills and tools, which I now use to educate and motivate youth, in order for them in turn, to become positive and productive citizens.

Lauren

The most that I have gotten out of my college experience is to listen. In high school I was always talking and not taking school as seriously as I should have. During my first semester in college I went out and had too much of a good time. I was afraid to ask questions during class and then ended up not doing so well. The second semester I knew I had to get my act in gear so I took school more seriously and ended up doing really well. I continually asked questions in class and emailed my professors as many times as I needed help with homework or papers. Out of this experience I have realized how the professor is there to help us succeed; in high school my teachers would always tell us that the professor will do their best to make you fail because you will have to take their class again and they will get more money. It has been valuable to attend because I know in the long run it will help me out. . Especially with the way our economy is, it is extremely competitive to get any job.

Shawn

I have received a lot of attention from my professors. We have developed a good repertoire with each other. Through the development of the trust between teacher and student and the equaled respect for one another, My college experience has grown dramatically. I enjoy learning and discussing with my professors. I also enjoy using the knowledge that they have given me to continue to improve in the classes I am taking. I plan to use what has been given to me through out my college career and my life. When I am in class I am attuned to what the instructor is talking about. In that respect I am better able to formulate questions and to better understand the material. Through my participation in the class, I also feel that I am better able to get a broader grasp of the material, and that the instructor, myself and the class can learn and delve deeper together.

Lakia

"Your college years will be some of the best years of your life." This common phrase people use to describe the college experience. At times it seems like it's just become a convenient clich? that people use to make everything sound nice, but the fact is with my experiences thus far at Texas Christian University, I may have to join the masses in expressing that sentiment. TCU is becoming and is looking to continue to be some of the greatest years of my life. The faculty, students, programs and overall community are amazing. There is always a helping hand, a smiling face, and a new intriguing experience around the corner. Being born and raised in California, I never would have thought I could call a place like Texas home, but TCU has allowed me to do exactly that by welcoming with open arms and an eagerness to help me succeed. Texas Christian University hasn't just changed my life, it has enhanced all for the better. So, go ahead call me typical, say it?s all a clich? because in this case I can't help it that the clich? has become a fact that it all too true.

Nicholas

The new friends I have made my first year have helped me become a more well rounded person. I have learned to surround myself with people that have a drive to succede. The groups I am involved with have helped me grow in my faith more than I ever imagined. It has helped me to develop more confidence in myself and to keep focus on my goals. I have learned how to help other succede as well. The most important thing I have learned is that I can not do all things on my own. I have learned to use the resources and people around me to help me do well in classes and accomplish my goals.

Adrienne

Grdauating from high school was the biggest step in my life and I accomplished a lot of goals ithat made others proud. Taking the next step to college was very important to me because I know that if I do not further my education, life would just be a waste. I think it's important to go to college and take that life long experience. Being a college freshman was of course scary but meeting new people and learning new subjects was fun and interestig. It was a hassle but I conquered through it all and wouldnt change anything. Georgia Military College is a great school and place to meet others from a different background as you. My experience made me who I am today, to be a leader and never a follower. School may get tough but never give up because you will be awarded at the end. It is very valuable beause it is a once in a lifetime experience. that you will not forget and can treasure for life. Accept every moment in life and learn from it to become a better person.

Sarah

College has been a learning experience all around. I have not only learned through academics, but also about people. Learning people's tendencies and behaviors has been very interesting to me. Having to resolve conflicts with people has been quite an experience since every person handles situations differently. I have learned, while in college, how to adjust to different personalities. My college experience has been absolutely amazing and I coudln't have asked for a better school to attend. I have learned many life lessons and have been able to experience many job opportunities in my field of psychology. I value my education, so attending college has been valuable in itself. I want to pursue my doctorate, so receiving my bachelor's degree was the first step. I will soon be enrolled in University of North Texas's Educational Psychology Master's Program as my next step in pursuing my doctorate. Mostly, my undergraduate experience has been just plain fun (with lots of work in between)!

Katie

TCU has been a place where I can call home. I live on campus, and have a community in my building. I joined a sorority, and gained new sisters to my family. I love that I found a place that has given me a second family. I will graduate with a degree in Early Childhood Education. TCU has one of the best programs in the area, and I can't imagine studying anywhere else. It has been so valuable to be to be able to do field experience since my first semester of college, which is academically one of the most valuable things that TCU can offer me for my future. But also, just as important as the academics, is my new community and family that TCU has given. College is about experience, and so far, these experiences have made everything worth it.

Ryan

Through my experience in college, I have learned what it takes to manage time properly, made several friends, branched out spiritually and emotionally, and become involved in things I wouldn?t have had the opportunity to otherwise. I have grown as a person and become more well rounded. College is a valuable stepping stone in growing up. Without these experiences, I wouldn?t be the same as I am now.

Pazely

There are so many things I have gotten out of my college experience. Not just a great education but the feeling of being successful. I love going to school knowing that when I'm done I am going to have a great career. The college experience has made me feel like I have achieved more in life. It lets me know I am headed in the right direction. Not only that, attending college has let me get the hands on experience to my future career, which makes me look forward to it more. Going to college and experiencing it has also motivated me to want to go on further in my education. In that sense college is very valuable and not just in the beginning but when you finish too. Pushing myself to go to college has allowed my confidence to sky rocket and I know I can do anything.

Janice

My college experience was the first time I was away from home and on my own. It taught me responsibility for my own actions and the need to establish priorities in order to be successful. My educational courses were great. I learned a great deal in the classroom as well as with interacting with my professors out of the classroom. The practical experiences prepared me for the career choices I am making today. No one in my family had ever attended college prior to my going. I felt that education was important to me and I did every thing I could to get in to college. It paved the way for my other siblings to be encouraged enough to attend school. Three have attained degrees and two have pursued Masters Degrees. Two others have taken college courses. I could not have become the person I am if I had not attended college. Also, attending a Christian school kept me rooted and grounded in my faith. Those experiences continue to play an integral part in my life today. I send thanks and praises to Texas Christian University and my professors.

Kalyssa

"Don't stress!" The transition from high school to college can be one of the most exciting times of your life! Sure, all the applications take time and can be very stressful, but just remember you are taking the next big step in your life. College is an opportunity to make friendships that will last a lifetime, and the time spent in the classroom and studying will get you even closer to whatever it is you dream of becoming! You'll learn that every minute spent stressing is a wasted one, so relax and enjoy the change. Remember, today is the first day of the rest of your life. What will you choose to do with it?

Madeleine

I'm a HUGE "LOST" fan (which premieres next week and often deals with time travel), so the idea of going back in time and revisiting myself as a high school senior is a fun one. OK, first of all, I would advise my senior self to visit college campuses earlier in the year. I didn't start looking until late in the year, and then it was a mad dash to check out University of Texas, Pepperdine, SMU, Arkansas and TCU. Secondly, I would advise my senior self to relax a bit more and not be so obsessed with my studies. I starred in a lot of theater productions in high school, and those experiences would turn out to be just as valuable as my academic studies. Thirdly, I would tell my senior self to get out there and talk to college students on the campuses in which I was interested. With Facebook, there are plenty of opportunities to get the inside scoop. Finally, I'd advise my senior self to ditch my HS boyfriend! He's way not good enough for me, and besides, there are lots of great people and experiences to discover in college! :)

Gabrielle

College is very different from high school. You live in a new place and you have more freedom. If I could go back in time and give my high school senior self advice, I would tell myself that you have to be your own advocate. There is no one there to make sure you get up and out of bed on time. You have to cook your own meals or make time to eat at the cafeteria, which does not always taste as good as mom's cooking. You have to learn to study without someone telling you to. I would tell myself to start learning good study skills in high school, while I still had time to make mistakes without that big of a consequence. I would also tell myself to really become involved in activities and to go to all of the games. You make a lot of friends this way and sometimes these friends can become your study buddies.