University of Arizona Top Questions

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

Marianna

Dear Young Me, I know you don’t really know what you want right now, and little me, you don’t ever really know what you want. You figure it all out, but it takes a little while. Don’t get discouraged, remember our favorite success quote “When you spend an adequate amount of time determining who you are, what you want to do and how you are to do it, you will have spent relatively less time doing it and achieve greater success” Trust me, when you spend the time, you achieve that success. Little me, learn to do you. Everyone has an opinion about what you want, and we both know they have no idea. Be strong enough to stand up for what you want. FOCUS! We both know, even now, focusing with your overactive brain is your biggest problem. Dad always says to work hard so you can play later. It's true, but don't over work yourself. Take time for you, stop and smell the desert. Last and more importantly, let go of your pride and let people into your heart. You always hated being alone and that's one thing that doesn't change.

Emily

Dear Self, During the first few months of school, please remember that all students are going through some kind of difficult transition. Some are just better at masking it than others. Do not feel pressure to be perfect... crying and making mistakes are definitely okay and a crucial part of figuring out who you are (a brave, smart, and beautiful person!). That being said, make sure to get involved in something non-academic related on campus. Try to find something that makes you smile, relieves stress, and helps you meet new people. Similarly, schedule time to treat yourself during and after big accomplishments. A simple walk with a friend will do wonders, as will the delicious and inexpensive frozen yogurt on campus. Throughout the next few years of your "parent free" educational journey, take the emotion out of school by simply doing (asking questions, studying, and visiting office hours) and remembering that your grade on a test does not impact your ability to be happy. Finally, remember the strength of your support system, family, and friends. They believe in you and know you are on your way to accomplishing the dreams you've had since childhood! Love, Emily

Rida

Dear me of the past I have come from the future with the knowledge to change your whole life forever! First I would like to tell you to pay attention in English and get a 4 in the IB examination. Take the placement test to get into a good math class right after June18th. Instead of following the “herd” also known as friends make your major General Studies and NOT Liberal Arts! If you must take a Foreign Language take French because you have a little knowledge/background in it *cough* took it for three years *cough* and NOT Arabic no matter how beautiful and elegant it is. Oh and definitely DON’T get engaged in ’08 please it’s not your time, and it won’t do you any good! Even if you don’t like it, become a substitute teacher for the Fairfax County you’ll come to love it in the future! No matter what happens please do us BOTH a favor and DON'T let your GPA drop!!! Seriously do these things in order and you will have the best time starting up your life, honest! Sincerity the messed up You from the Future

Caitlin

Firstly, I'd say be prepared. Gather as many advantages as possible. Take a couple classes relevant to a possible major at community college during the year or in summer. It'll give you a better idea of whether you actually want to be in that major. But, more than that, you'll ease the transition of college. You will better understand how rigorous the coursework will be in college, too. That's a major hurdle for most freshmen. Community college grades don't transfer to affect you GPA at university most times. So, this is likely a risk-free endeavor. Look at many different colleges and know that a school might have a bad reputation but have a good program in what you're interested. Visit campuses and find the best place for YOU, without letting other people affect your decision. When you get to your new school, try for balance. All the new freedom you have is intoxicating. But, don't lose sight of your schoolwork while you party all semester. Failing out of school is a very real possibility. Study regularly, not just when you have a test. But, don't stay inside all day. HAVE FUN!

Ricardo

I would not tell him anything simply because I have had so much fun during these past years in college.

Marquis

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior self, I would have gave myself some very important advice. As much as it would have hurt, I would tell my former self to give up the countless hours playing video games. Considering the sheer amount of time I invested in reading, composing essays, and completing homework – leisure time is a rare luxury to find in college. Before attending the University of Arizona, I would tell my former self to “Stay focus and do not lose sight of your dreams and aspirations.” College has been a very stressful yet rewarding time in my life. I strive to do my best and stay optimistic, so I can better my chances for the constructive future I want build for myself and those around me. Looking back at my youthful childhood, I would have also advised my former self to spend much more time applying for scholarships; as the cost of college is increasing at a staggering rate. I know as long as I stay focus and determined, I can accomplish my dreams and aspirations.

Mayra

If I had the opportunity to go back and speak to my seventeen year old self I would say to her: "Mayra, get it together." In my small town experience I was scared of what was to come and couldn't figure out what I wanted to do with my life. I was terrified by change and the prospect of college. I had no idea what to study, how to apply, where to go, etc. I was so clueless I didn't think to speak to a guidance counselor or anyone else for that matter about my apprehension. As an adult I've become accustomed to ask questions, to ask for direction, and more importantly to ask for advice. I would impart this wisdom to my younger self and hope that she get over her nerves and step up. Given the chance to speak to that scared clueless teen, I would say, "It's ok if you don't know what you want to be when you grow up but don't let that get in the way of life's course or from exploring new possibilities. Don't let life pass you by."

Naim

I would tell myself so many things if I could go back, beginning with AP tests. I would encourage my high school senior self to study hard for those AP tests and try hard because they can save me money and pointless Gen Ed classes. Those AP tests are harder than they appear, and much more important than a high school senior thinks. Now that I know its importance, I would push myself to do better! Another piece of advice that I would give myself is to play that last year of basketball, I should not have quit my final year. I would tell myself to keep playing and play harder than before. I know that I could have accomplished so much more if I had finished that final year, and I would convince myself to play!

Valeria

If I could go back in time to tell my younger self what to expect, I would give myself some advice. I would tell myself that even though there are so many things to do at the University of Arizona, I would advice not to get too distracted and always finish my work on time. The first thing that must be done is all the work. Finish them early then have a bit of fun. It is good to have them done a few days they are due, but it is better to actually finish them weeks ahead of time, even on the day they were given. But the most important thing I would tell myself is have fun and try to balance my study life with my fun life. Enjoy my life at the university, make new friends, and go to some of the clubs they have. The university life doesn’t have to be all about studying, it can be the first thing on the list of things to do, but after that, enjoy myself and learn new things. If this can be done, then life at the University of Arizona won’t be so bad.

Danisha

If I could meet my high school self, I would advise myself to first make sure that I do not do anything foolish that would cause any negative marks on my credit report., especially not to get any credit cards. I would advise myself to make sure that I pay all of my bills on time. I would also advise myself to take a career in computers. This is because computers are the "wave of the future". Information Technology is an area that is always hiring and jobs are in demand. As a result, I would advise myself to gain as much knowledge, skills and certificates in order to make myself an asset to employers. I would also tell myself to apply for as much scholarships as possible. By doing this, I would not have had to get so many student loans and be in so much debt. I would also tell myself to make as much positive credit as possible. This would help me get closer to my ultimate goal of owning my own home.

Ashley

I did not attend college right out of high school. I married my high school sweet-heart, when I was 19, right after he joined the Army and I would do it over again in a heartbeat. My first thought on advice I would give my high school self was to go to college right out of high school and stick with it until you receive a degree. But then I started thinking about my past life experiences and I decided to change my answer for this question. I decided I would not tell myself anything. The truth is, I did not know what I wanted to do right out of high school. It took my life experiences to show me what I am destined to do with my life. If it wasn't for my life experiences, struggles and mistakes made along the way, I would not know what I know now. I have learned to care for and to understand people. Life has taught me to expect nothing and appreciate everything. So to answer this question, it would simply be to know that you can do anything you put your mind to and when the time is right.

Rachel

Honestly my biggest piece of advice to myself would be to not double major. I am currently pursuing both a business and music performance degree and a lot of the time I’m not sure the music degree is worth it. While I love music and playing my instrument the classes are so hard and more work than anything else I have ever taken part in, which on its own isn’t a problem, but it keeps me from giving my full attention to business. If there was a way I could convince myself to just minor in music then I would do everything I in my power to do just that. It’s not because it’s just a boat load of work with two majors, it’s just the music program specifically. Studying music theory takes the magic out of casual listening to every day music. If I could, I would save myself from analyzing everything I listen to.

Laura

I was most concerned about being away from my family. I wish I could have told myself that the transition away from home is easier than I originally thought. Being away from home I still get homesick, but after I talk to my family for awhile, I realize that I am in a spot in life where I have a lot of freedom as well as have minimal responsibilites and I should be enjoying it, not worrying all the time about missing my family. Don't get me wrong, I miss them like crazy, but I wish I had known that the transition is not as scary than I thought.

Abigail

As a senior in high school I believed my college plans would work themselves out. I was accepted to the University of Wisconsin Waukesha and had my mom by my side as I signed up for my first semester of classes. Then all I had to do was wait for school to start. Looking back and assessing those first two years, I wish I could tell my senior self to take matters into my own hands. Transitioning into college meant putting my big girl pants on, and not being so dependent on my parents throughout my educational career. I’ve learned that I cannot depend entirely on others to plan my classes and manage the time required to succeed as a student. As I’m only halfway through college, I can already see that I’ll still be learning well past college graduation, and it is up to me to remain organized and figure out what is next for me. Making my own decisions would have helped that transition into college be an experience of adventure and a journey on my own. After all, college is the first step in life to maturing into an independent.

Tara

I would tell myself to always follow your heart and never make a regretable decision. The decision was made for a reason.

Christina

Dear high school self, I know that right now you can't wait to graduate and college is the furthest thing from your mind. It is okay to take some time off to figure out what you want to do. But make sure that you go back to school. Don't give up on your dreams to help other people. While college may seem like a daunting task, make sure you hold your head high. Don't try to blend in and be invisible. Be the person that I know you can be, kind and outgoing. This will make the transition easier and you will make friends who will always be there for you. Enjoy this time because it will go by quickly. Become active in the college community, this will help you to make connections that will benefit you in the future.

Erika

I would tell myself that family is more important than you think. Your parents do so much for you that you will soon appreciate. College is harder than you expected, so get ready for some all nighters studying. You are WAY more capable than you think you are. Your GPA average by the time you are a junior will be a 3.7 and you will have been invited to the national society of colleigate scholars. You will drift away from your friends, but thats okay because you have made smarter decisions than they have. Your career choice will soon become your obsession. You are going to do whatever it takes to get into the best Occupational Therapy program. You will be doing brainwave research, and you will be learning and understanding things that you never thought you would have even encountered. You are a great person and an outstanding student. Your college self will show you that.

Kylee

If I could give myself advice my senior year of high school to prepare myself for college, I would tell myself to be outgoing in my classes. The first few weeks of classes are great for getting to know people because nobody wants to be the person sitting in an hour and fifteen minute class alone. I tend to be shy and quiet when I am in overwhelming situations such as the first couple weeks of college, so I didn't make any new friends my first semester of my freshman year. But my second semester I wasn't so nervous because I already had one semester under my belt. On the first day of each class, I introduced myself to at least two people in every class. The people that I introduced myself to those first days were the people that I talked to every class and studied with before exams. If I had made friends in my classes my first semester, I probably would have enjoyed going to my classes much more and done better as I did my second semester.

Katherine

The best advice I would give myself would be to explore more major options. Now I’m heading into my junior year and I’m unsure of my major. It is crazy but I wish I would have looked into med school and careers more before deciding on one thing so quickly. I still fear that I won’t like my career in the future, but my plan is to return to school if that is the case. My roommate of 2 years has changed her major 3 times and it has made me doubt mine. I wish I would have looked into volunteering, interning, and researching my major prior to going to school.

Ariana

College is typically the natural progression after graduating high school. I, on the other hand, had other plans. I took two years off. Although I eventually made it to college, I would tell my high school self not to be afraid. After I graduated I had no interest in attending college, at least that is what I told myself. I tried to convince myself that it was not for me. I was unsure of myself and my abilities. I was lost and confused. Ultimately, I gave into my fears. I turned my back on school. Now I would tell myself never let fear get in the way of living your life. It is alright to be uncertain but it is not alright to give up. I know that you are scared, but you cannot afford to waste your time. You have plenty of resources; you just have to take advantage of them. You are not alone. Thousands of students are just as lost as you are. You will never know how great you can be if you do not try. Do me a favor, just make one appointment with your advisor and I promise you will not regret it.

kari

I would tell myself to apply to as many scholarships as possible, and to worry about getting my pre-reqs done before worrying about traveling. If I would of focused more on school then, then I wouldn't be here now still in the same position yet I have seen just about the whole united states. I would tell myself to focus more and learn a new language and study more about other cultures. I would also tell myself to stop worrying about who's throwing the big party this weekend and to stay in and watch the discovery channel or something. I would try and convince myself that there is better opportunites if you put effort and apply yourself to them. I wouldn't honestly change anything from my past, because I am also thankful for all the advantures and life lessons I have learned along my journey. Although I do wish I was graduating college with an associates degree right now like all my friends are doing.

Natalie

I would not give myself much advise because I do not regret anything that happened this past year. I met great people, learned a lot about myself and it was all because I went for it not knowing what was going to happen or how I was going to like the school. All I would say would be to go with the flow and do not take one moment for granted becuase eventhough you might hate the school, you chose it for a reason and you need to trust yourself. Everything you do, or anything that goes wrong is just another event that will make you grow as a person and understand yourself and what you want out of life more.

Courtney

Looking back on my college experience, I would tell myself not to worry so much. Life always seems to work itself out and that college is the time of your life. You will find what you love and become a teacher through a masters program that you always wanted. School is extremely fun and you need to live it up while you can so as to make the best of things instead about worrying about all the things that need to be done.

Brandon

If were to be able to speak to myself as a high school senior, i would tell myself to look harder at the things that really matter. Spend time with family rather than random friends who aren't in it for the long run. Always do what makes yourself happy, because your happiness is the only thing in life that matters other than your career. Have random outbursts at times just to make sure you are human after tests. Don't listen to the people that bully you, they don't mean anything to you, and are only there to get a rise off of your actions. Make sure that you try your hardest because these years really do matter, and they are directly dependent on your future. Also, Brandon, don't go to the University of Arizona, go to Loyola Marymount.

Thomas

The most important thing I could tell high school me is to relax. High school is a stressful time and everyone just wants be accepted by their peers. I was no different. I yearned for acceptance. I had the notion in my head that popularity was happiness. I was very wrong. When I started college I chose to stop caring what others thought about me. I took an approach like “This is me, if you don’t like me I’m sorry.” That attitude was so freeing. I no longer needed to worry about doing something to embarrass myself or wearing something that wasn’t in style. It has brought me happiness but not because of popularity. In high school if I had been popular it wouldn’t have been real. People wouldn’t have enjoyed spending time with the goofy/nerdy me; they would have liked the fake me, the phony kid who wore and did what he was told was popular. Now I know people enjoy me because of who I truly am. If I could I would tell high school me to just relax and realize the real him is the person people really want to see.

Megan

If I could speak to my younger self, I would advise trying harder in math and getting a Spanish tutor. Second languages are difficult, and I never truly grasped how valuable free education was. Taking the extra time to meet with a high school Spanish teacher would have greatly helped prepare me for college foreign language courses. Math is by far my worst subject, and I'm ashamed to say my placement score was below college level. I was not required to take math my senior year, but if I could do it over again, I would try to get that extra help. I would tell myself, "You will have to take more math classes if you don't study for it now. Not only will that cost you more time and agony, but your parents will have to pay for it. You don't want that do you?" My parents are trying to support me through my college career, and they're the reason I'm striving to obtain a scholarship. College is expensive and can be difficult, so the biggest message to myself would be, "Work hard, study, and value free education. It won't be there forever."

Jayme

My biggest mistake as a senior in high school was not taking scholarships seriously. They were not discussed very often in high school so I really did not think it would be hard. It is actually very competetive and in reality the chances of getting scholarships are really slim. Therefore, I cannot stress enough the importance of making the time each day to apply for scholarships. Paying for college is extremely stressfull and stress is the last thing that a freshman needs. I also believe it is very important to familiarize yourself with the entire campus and any clubs that you may have an interest in. Barrel racing is an extremely important activity in my life. I own 5 horses, therefore I chose to live at home instead of living in the dorms. If you live in the dorms, take opportunites to meet new friends! Don't be shy! Don't be afraid to get tutors. The workload is much more intense than high school. Try to involve yourself in class activity as much as possible and don't get discouraged! College life is hard, but it is going to be the best time in your life!

Anthony

First, take homework more seriously. Everyone at some point or another hits a figurative brick wall where things aren't easy anymore, and your brick wall is vector calculus. Once you hit that wall, having good habits like sitting down and doing your homework becomes important, more important than an extra hour of video games. Knowing how to study, and more importantly recognizing that you now have to study, will get you past this mess of coursework, and you will be happier for it. And second, forget the "going to school only for a good paying job" nonsense. Furthering your education isn't about money, it's about getting a deeper knowledge of what you enjoy doing. Third, learn to play classical guitar. The love of it is in there, you just don't know it yet.

Samantha

While a degree is important and you must focus on earning it, do not lose sight of why you are truly here. It is far more imperative to take courses which will enlighten and inspire you most, than it is to pass courses and earn a paper with no knowledge to substantiate it. With this in mind, do not fret about the reputation or ranking of your university either, wherever you end up you will be sure to find a plethora of knowledge and a string of professors who will guide you wherever you might want to go. While the valor of recognition that an ivy league school offers may help with your career following your formal education, it is no match for what you learn there. With this in mind remember, do what makes your heart sing; just find someone useful enough to pay you to do it.

Alejandra

Hello past Me, This is future You, sending you some much needed advice. I know that you are a senior in highschool and you are trying to figure out what your priorities are. I remember feeling over whelmed and confused, and scared, but do ourselves a favor and take a deep breath and listen to what I am about to tell you. I know that right now the most important things in your life are your friends and your boyfriend, but trust me when I tell you that the is most important aspect of your life is your education. I can imagine the face you must be making right now, but its true! Your education is the only thing that can secure your future (something that your friends or boyfriend can never do). You know how people say, that anyhing is possible? It's very true! But it doesnt come easy, you have to work hard for what you want. So when you feel lost, know that there is always someone there with the answers. All you have to do is ask. Do not Fear, everything will be just fine! Let's graduate! Sincerely, Future self

Corrine

If I could tell myself how to prepare for college, I would say, "Develope a study plan, and pay extra attention to your mathematics. Things are hard at college and though you think you're a genius everyone is as smart as you at college, so you need to work harder to make up the difference. Start studying on your own and reading non-fiction now so that you will be prepared. And try to get into ballroom dancing your freshman year instead of waiting till sophomore. Good luck."

Sam

Don't worry about what the future holds and focus on what is in front of you. The world, your world, doesn't need to be planned out with details and bullet points- a rough outline is more than enough to suffice. What really matters is that you keep a steady stance. This is important. You will be caught off-guard. You will be culture-shocked. You'll learn that in many ways you're naive, sheltered even. But if you have a steady stance, you will react appropriately and with a profound grace and ease. Welcome these situations of change, as they represent self-growth and development. Secondly, establish yourself and garner life experiences. Stretch out from where your comforts lie and press forward into the beautiful and engaging unknown. Explore the secret spots in each city that are seldom seen. Learn not just from the appearance of a person or village but from the culture and backstory that represents and describes them. Branch out and accept what the world offers with honest enthusiasm. Embrace your mistakes and press forward when not using the past as a teaching tool for the future. Be strong. Be fluid. Be like water.

Emily

I would tell my high school senior self to be more open to new opportunities and challenges. One of the biggest aspects of college is being on your own and choosing a new path for yourself, and I would tell myself not to be afraid of doing so. I found myself so worried about fitting in. "Will I make any friends?" "Will I just sit in my dorm room by myself?" No, you won't make any friends and yes, you will just sit in your dorm room by yourself if you are not open to new opportunities! I would have told myself to not be so shy, to talk to those who I thought would make good friends, and join that club that seems really interesting. There is nothing wrong with trying new things and opening yourself up to new ideas. I would tell myself to not be afraid of failure, making mistakes is how you grow as an individual! "You will never know unless you try." However, my biggest piece of advice would be to not be so worried. You'll do well in school if you try, and you will make wonderful friends if you stay positive.

Christine

Seeing that I am currently a high school senior, that is a tough one. I think what is important this senior year that I have to keep in mind is patience. Everyone around me, including myself, are so rushed to burst out of the creaky high school doors into whatever awaits them into the next years. I tend to find myself counting down the days and complaining that summer cannot come sooner, forgetting that I won't see the students I grew up with every day after we graduate. I am excited to write my own future after high school, and make independent decisions. It's essential that I learn to become more patience my senior year. Please at least consider me for this scholarship even though I am a senior in high school still. I am attending a four year university next year and you can expect a lot from me! Thanks, Christine Zlotek

Emily

Dear highschool-age me, When you are going to the university, just remember to relax. Everyone is in the same position as you. Everyone feels anxious, homesick, nervous, and desparate to make friends. You will find your place anywhere you go, but focus on finding the one you feel the most comfortable in. Just focus on a good attitude, learn about your school, and enjoy the experience. You only have one freshman year, so make memories. Make sure you use all the resources given to you and make an extra effort to get to know the professors. Join a club! Put yourself out there Emily, now is the time! I know a lot of people tell you these things, but I have been through the experience and I can't begin to tell you how correct these statements are. I love you, you'll do great. I am very proud of you.

Michelle

If I could go back in time and give my self advise about college I would advise getting in a set schedule to follow weekly. I found that having a routine to follow everyday helps to maintain organization and develop good study habits. Other advice I would give would be to utilize the free torturing program the school has to offer. The University of Arizona offers the Think Tank. Think Tank is good for any subject. Before discovering the magic of Think Tank there were many times it would have made life so much easier. One of the most use full things I discovered in college are to-do lists. If I could go back in the past I would advise using to-do lists. They keep me on track and organized. I always know what needs to get done and when. To-do lists are even fun to make because you can make them pretty using clip art or you can simply write it on a scratch piece of paper. The best part about them is the feeling you get of scratching a task off once you finish. I wish I learned this advise before college started.

Kayla

Taking a look at myself in the past makes me realize that everything my parents told me was right. Friends in highschool may seem like the most important thing in life at the time, but when you leave all that behind to further your education, you realize your true priorities. Also don't be fooled by those typical college movies. College is a lot of hard work and studying, however don't beat yourself up too much and remember to enjoy the best four years of your life.

Allysa

If I could go back in time as a high school senior, I would tell myself to stop slacking and apply for way more scholarships, and also to stop procrastinating, and study harder. In addition, I would tell my high school senior self to be more involved so that way it would be easier to become a little more involved when I got to college, and to not be so shy about meeting new people.

Sydney

The best advice I could give to myself as a high school senior would be to live every moment to the absolute fullest in every single aspect. I would tell myself to never take any challenge, experience, or lesson learned for granted. I would remind myself that throughout my life, I have developed a solid sense of self discipline and strong work ethic through my years as a hard-working student and competitive swimmer that those will always be valuable traits in striving toward my dream. I would tell myself that if I want to become a doctor, a long road lies ahead that will throw never-ending, truly testing curveballs my way, but also that I have the strength to overcome all challenges, even if I do not believe so in the moment. Lastly, I would tell myself that of course grades, test scores, and performances are important, but they do not define who I am as a person. In order to truly be successful in life, fulfilling dreams is only rewarding if I give back by touching the lives of others in a meaningful way, sharing my happiness genuinely, and cherishing the people who made my success possible.

Ana

If i could go back in time and talk to my self I would tell myself to try my best in everything that I do and that no matter how much I feel that things are impossible there is always a solution. I would tell my self to not be afraid to try new things and meet new people because the people that you meet in college have potential of being your friends for life. I would tell my self to study hard and to not let my self be influenced by others who do not know how to manage their time wisely and above all I would tell my self to not be afraid to follow my instincts.

Chloe

College is the intriguing chapter in the book of life. It is where the story becomes exciting as new characters unfold, knowlege of the world is released, and the twists and conflicts are always surprising. After experiencing college I would first advise my high school self to accept every opportunity presented to excel academically. High school is a free education. I would advise myself to take the AP exams and numerous classes to indulge myself in the provided learning and even try to get ahead for my future college experience. However, the best advice I could give myself would be to continue to follow my heart. I would tell myself to always believe in who I am and what I am capable of. I would advise to study in a major that I love and not for the gifts of money. As outgoing as I am I would still advise myself to live in the moment and establish friendships because some can even last for a lifetime. In the end I would say this is the part of the book that will captivate you in every way so instead of skimming over the pages, sit back and enjoy the journey.

Jasmine

I would go back and tell myself to be more confident in what I school I choose to go to. Be it a university, private, or a community college it is not the school that makes you, but how you learn from them. I would also like to tell the past me to dp more research on the school that I actually want to go to.

Luis

I would tell my self not to rush graduating. I would tell my self to take it slow and do it right the first time.

Shivani

If I could go back to highschool. I would tell myself to make good study habits. The most difficult thing I had to learn in college was to manage my time. Since in highschool I lived at home, many aspects such as cooking,laundry,gorcery shopping, ect. was taken care of by my parents. In the first few semesters I had a very hard time trying to manage my time inbetween class, studying and maintaing a socail life. As a Senior in Highschool I was able to get away with doing minumum work and still pulling off good/passing grades. Studying night before the exam would almost always work out for me. However, in college it was a rude awakening when I was not able to do well by just studying the night before. Time managment and oraganization are key to a successful college life.

John

Do not be in such a hurry to make your life conform to what you currently plan. Things progress, in ways you can not predict, to conclusions you could not expect. As is written in Proverbs 16:9, "In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps." Doors close, and other doors open. Over the years you will walk through many doors, and your eventual destination will be how your life will be perceived by others, but that is not the whole truth. You will know the path you have traveled, and that it was not where you initially planned to go. There are many avenues to a fulfilling life though, and you must let yourself be responsive to changes. Failure or success is not determined by how faithfully you carry through on your earliest plans. You grow as you travel along your path, and by learning through those travels you will find a destination right for you.

Carol

Going back to 2010, I would tell myself, “Although you're graduating, continue listening to mom. She will always have your best interest in mind.” When I was a senior in high school that was accepted to the University of Arizona, my mom had me sign up for the New Start Program, which is a college bridge program for incoming freshmen. I would tell myself that this experience is the reason you will be able to adjust smoothly to college and find your community on campus. Thanks to mom’s advice in registering for New Start, you were able to start college with 300 familiar faces on a college campus of 30,000 people; you got ahead in classes because of the summer course you took as part of the program; you also were told about the O’odham Ki wing, the Native American living learning community on campus, that you will later become the resident assistant of. Although you will be bitter about having to cut your summer with your friends short, now you are thankful for the impact that this program has had. Oh, and hug mom because you will miss her when you are away at college.

Ilene

I would say slow down. During my senior year, I took four AP classes, was Senior Class President, played varsity basketball, and was involved in a number of other clubs and activities. While all of this helped me get into colleges and led to success, I missed out on other opportunities. All my friends from back home are going to school in California. I am the only person from my graduating class going to school in Arizona. I would tell myself to spend more time with my friends, because now I don't get to see or hear from them as often as I would like. I don’t regret being focused on school and activities. That’s who I was and in some ways it’s who I still am. However, I wish I spent more time doing high school things. I missed out on some dances because by the time Friday came I was too tired to go. Knowing what I know now, I would tell myself to have fun and enjoy life. You can’t put “had a blast” on a college application or résumé, but having a blast will make you so much happier.

Aidee

Before attending The University of Arizona it would have been beneficial to know a few of the features that come along with becoming a wildcat. The main aspect of becoming a college student that I would have appreciated knowing prior is the nostalgia that comes with the experience recognized as the new chapter of your life. Ordering books, attending orientation, or even getting that brand new hair cut contributes to preparing you for school, nevertheless, there is not much that can prepare you for the feelings that will run through you as you reminisce on memories from back home. Sure, you will meet all kinds of interesting personalities and see many new faces, however, dealing with the desire to want to hug your mother, play with your dog, or even bicker with your younger sister all while trying to adapt to a new atmosphere can be tough. What I would tell the high school senior version of me is treasure the time left with families and friends and to prepare to feel a bit lonely. I’d also emphasize that these feelings are normal, it will get easier, and that most freshman on campus are feeling the exact same way.

Corina

As I look back on my high school years, I am reminded of a young girl plagued with trials. Attending a rigorous college preparatory high school after suffering from a traumatic brain injury had truly taken its toll on me. Feeling defeated that girl gave up on trying, and settled for less than her best. If I could advise that young girl that was once me I would tell her that the future gets better. College is filled with a combination of trials; from the difficult classes, managing time and trying to find your place on campus, it is easy to fill lost. However, college also offers an abundant amount of opportunities to succeed. I would tell that young girl to take advantage of those possibilities and always use the difficulty of college to motivate her to try harder. If you remember the importance of exceling in college, put your mind to the books and invest your heart in your dreams you will be victorious. Young troubled high school girl, if you follow my advise I can assure you by freshman year in college you will have found strength and success in yourself.

Megan

If I could go back in time to and talk to my sixteen year old self about what I know now about college life and making the transition I would tell myself to never give up no matter what. I would tell myself to not listen to everyone else and quit the first time. I would tell myself to keep my dream and finish college the first time when I am young. College is hard enough studying and trying to stay at the top of your class but it's even harder when you become a single parent of a five year old little girl. I would tell myself to keep up my math skills and remember how to write in an MLA format. I would tell myself to become tech savy because you can't just finish your courses with just the book anymore. I would tell myself to keep my head up and don't be afraid to ask questions. I would tell myself to never doubt myself because one day I will make it and be where I want to be and that I have all the confidence in the world in myself.