University of Arizona Top Questions

i would to myself to be more focused and take things more serious. college is a lot about time management and gettin the important things done first. set aside time where i could study and do my work before time comes down to the last minute so i wouldnt be frustrated and worried about getting my work handed in on time.

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to apply for lots of scholarships and grants. I would tell myself to focus on school and not try to work full-time and go to school full-time. And I would tell myself to go to a 4-year institution the entire time instead of a community college. I would be persistant on studying really hard and focusing completely on school work. Lastly I would tell myself to always have fun through the entire experience because it is a experience all in itself.

If I was standing with myself at the age of seventeen, the age where I'm trying to find "the BEST college possible to fit my personality," I would yell at myself and say to "RELAX!" Socially we are told that college is the best four years of our life. It's the time when we grow up, become independant, and really find ourselves and career paths. Ok, well if that is true, I have to find the PERFECT place to do it right!? Being a liberal, outdoor enthusiast from Utah, I was eager to escape the confines of our conservative legislature and "bubble" by going to an out of state school. Oh the pressure of picking the right one! I would want to tell myself that that no college is perfect. No college will have exactly the type of people that I get along with, the perfect weather, the perfect little town and community. What the challenge is, is adapting to whichever you choose and making it perfect for yourself. After that extremely tough choice is made, I would remind myself that the first semester won't be easy, but if you really want to, you'll make it.

Enjoy high school and your friends. Remember that loyal friends are to be cherished. Treat them with kindness as you make memories that will last a lifetime. Most importantly, plan your future. Ask yourself what are your goals and how are your going to achieve them. Without a milestone or map you may be lost. Develop yourself by spending extra time to improve those skills in which you are weak and build upon the skills that you have that are solid. Explore your local universities evening classes or investigate earning college credits while in high school. Computer skills are a must. Begin now to learn as much software as possible. This will allow more time to study and prepare your presentation, without learning software as you go. Do not settle for status quo. Do not be afraid of the unknown. The world is to be explored and appreciated. Learn about cultures and the diversity around you. Reach out to others to make new friends. Enjoy the happiness and rewards of helping those in need. Encourage your friends to join you in protecting the environment. Remember to continue learning and laughing throughout your life.

If I visited my high school senior self, describing how fantastic college is would be a difficult task. However, I would have some major tips to say. This first bit of info is that I should find a roommate to room with before signing up for housing. This is because both of my roommates so far have not been very friendly. More information would be to prepare to do a lot of work. Being in college, I have realized that education is not only a priority but a major step towards my dream job of being an optical engineer. Lastly, I would tell my high school self to look forward to all the good time I will have. So far, I cannot even start to detail the great moments I have had.

Seek out help immediately, don't wait and assume you'll "do better" next time. Also, create study groups. Figure out when you study best and utilize that time. Don't procrastinate, it'll kill ya! Have fun. :) Follow your heart - it's a lot of money to spend doing something you don't enjoy.

I would tell myself that there is no need to be nervous about higher education, I would put extreme emphasis on how important it is to take my higher education as serious as possible. This one of the biggest investments you can make in your life and it prepares you for the road ahead.

One piece of advice is please go to class and actually do the readings! Believe it or not, professors assign you certain readings for a purpose, so do them. I know it will be easy to sleep in and skip class since teachers don't do attendence, but wake up and go! You will come to realize that students don't get ready for class like they do in High School. It is no longer a fashion show, so put on some comphy clothes, brush your teeth and walk to class. Secondly, will you break up with your overprotective boyfriend already? You need to experience Dorm life for all the great things it has to offer. Be outgoing and proactive to meet new people. Some of the friends you will meet could last a life time so cherish the first year of college. Embrace being a Freshman. Don't worry about trying to make yourself look older, because the upper classmen can always tell whose fresh out of High School, and honestly, they don't care. Everyone was in your shoes at one point, so enjoy these years because before you know it you'll be a graduating senior!

I would take as many classes as possible at the community college, and have a better study plan. Do not waste time getting Associate degree. Classes in university are much harder than they are at the community college - be prepared for it . Go to school right after high school - do not wait untill you are older - it is much harder to study when you are older. Do not worry about dating people, partying and all that stupid stuff - just focus on studies. Take care of your health, eat healthy, exercise.

Although going to college involves gaining a great deal of freedom, it's important to remember why it is that you are going to college in the first place because in college you may easily become sidetracked by these newly acquired liberties . Sure college is there for you to gain a great deal of experiences that will come to shape the rest of your life and social life plays a big part of that, but your number one goal is to get an excellent education. In order to do this, maintaining your focus and making a commitment to yourself that you will do the best work possible is absolutely key. College means responsibility. You now hold your fate in your own hands and your actions will truly determine whether your future endeavors are achieved. So realize that your college career and your future is what you make it. Best of luck.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to take full advantage of the time I had left. I was incredibly lucky to grow up where I did and with those who surrounded my every day life. I would tell myself to hug my friends and family even more and to stop spending time on the couch and go out and live every day to its full potential. I would prepare myself better for moving, and to be more organized when I was packing. I would tell myself not to base my decisions off of a romance, because the only person who can make me happy is myself. It's not up to my significant other to make me who I am. If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would make sure that I knew that I can do well in college by putting myself out there socially and academically. I would tell myself just to be happy and enjoy the experience while I was in it.

I think about this particular question a lot, and if I had the opportunity to talk to my high school senior self I would definitely take that chance. I would advise my younger self to focus on studies and to not procrastinate because the work will really pile up and the longer you put it off the more stress you will put upon yourself. And while on the topic about stress I would also advise myself to take some time to relax and get to know the campus and the students. I would definitely advise to join an intermural sport because not only is it extremely fun and entertaining, not to mention a good way to excercise, as well as relieve some of the pressure that first semester freshman definitely feel. And you will meet so many people this way too. Join clubs that have to do with your area of study because they tend to be accompanied with turtoring and study groups, which can always help. As my final words I would advise to remember this is college and it is serious so be attentive but also remember to have some fun and relax. :)

i would tell my self to do exactly what i was planning, which would be taking a year off, but to continue studying french. i would tell myself that taking a year off was what helped me decide what i wanted to do and let me meet amazing people who helped shape me. i would also say to research classes thoroughly before signing up for them and not to take astronomy in freshman year. last of all i would say don't doubt your own abilities and study hard and you will do fine, out of hard work comes great gain.

I would explore more professional opportunities before I got to college to expand my knowledge in what I want to do.

Learn routines and love the gym. Staying up till 2 am isnt fun and energy drinks only take you so far. Be involved in campus, break out of your shell and meet people. Learn to share: your time, space, notes, energy. 8 am classes are unavoidable, get used to it. Learn really good study habits, you'll need them. Learn whats going on around campus and go try new things (PS, you'll like swing dancing). Calls home to Mom and Dad are important, but you are growing up and cant rely on them anymore. Small dorms are great. Drinking is huge, but dont get sucked in. Live, Laugh, Love.

My advice would be to take initiative and get all available information about college campuses, college life, financial aide etc. The more knowledge you have; the more successful you will be at the college of your choice. It is also very important to not limit yourself and be open to new experiences, people, and places. GET INVOLVED! Be a college student and participate in school activites, sports, clubs etc. You have to be an active member of your college in order to really get the full college experience that you will remember the rest of your life. It will help you become a more well-rounded, knowledgeable, and culturally sensitive person, which are skills the will be useful in life. Take advantage of your education and enoy it! It is an experience that not everyone gets to have so dont take it for granted.

Dear High School Self, If you can, try to get to know yourself a little better before starting college. Definitely keep an open mind and look at this as the last big break before the Real World. But make sure to know your guns and stick to them. Be true to yourself. Remember your most embarassing moment in high school? During the play your skirt had a huge rip in it and someone stepped on it just as you - and the rest of the audience - noticed it. Keep that in mind when you slip and fall on the wet ground in front of the ENTIRE (insert varsity sport team type here) team or when you give a presentation and unknowingly have green lettuce wedged in between your two front teeth. Laugh at yourself and make sure you live this experience - breathe in the moments. Relax in the knowledge that you are on top of your world. Walk tall, shoulders back and carrying your head high - you have made it this far! Sincerely College Self

Speaking to myself as a high school senior after all of my great experiences in college, I would certainly have much to say. Primarily, I would stress the need to stay focused on the overall goal. "It is easy to lose focus with the many positive activities and negative distractions on campus. It is essential to strive towards your main goal while still taking time for yourself to enjoy the positive activites that the university has to offer. Also, when not sure if you can accomplish something, go for it anyways. It's better to try and fall short than to not try at all. You cannot succeed and move to the next level if you are constantly second guessing your abilities. If at first you fall just short of your goal, that does not mean that you should give up. Failure in one situation does not mean failure is evident in another. Instead, take failure as a challenge to improve and work harder to ensure success in the next oppurtunity that presents itself. Finally, remember the people that helped you get where you are today including loved ones, acquaintances, and complete strangers. Go get 'em... (and get a haircut!) ;-)"

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior there are many pieces of advice I would give myself. First off, I would tell myself to not let the little things bother me; I have a great successful life ahead of me and do not need to dwell on the things that ultimately I will not care about in a year or so. Second, I would also let myself know that college is significantly different from high school and it takes much more work. Just try your best, that is all anyone can ask for. Next, I would inform myself that the summer before college is rough, you are ready to move on your own, but stay calm and collected because once you get to college your life will begin to fall into place. Lastly, I would let myself know that I need to stay focused on what is ahead in my future. In high school I let so many unimportant ideas bother me, but looking back it makes no sense why I wasted so much time. Now, I see what and who matters in the long run.

?You want to teach History and Anthropology to college students with an emphasis on teaching through hands on experiences.? That?s what I would tell my high school senior self ? after she had gotten over her time traveling future self. It was perhaps my biggest dilemma, what did I really want to do with my life? Several months ago, I was stuck with a 14 hour delay in SeaTac airport and after exhausting all normal conversations with the former stranger, Scott, I began to discuss my inability to choose a course of study. After a 3 hour discussion of all possible careers (Taxidermy anyone?), I found myself saying the very first sentence of this essay. That is what I would tell my past self, what I would want to be when I (finally) grew up; however, I might mention 12 5 27 16 21, last week?s lotto numbers.

There are so many things I wish I could?ve told myself about college life and making the transition. First, I would warn myself that it is quite lonely in the beginning. You don?t make friends instantly, even on a campus of 30,000 people. I would also tell myself that it?s not easy moving to another state. You have to condense your entire life into a few suitcases. College is all about time management. Make sure to make going to class, homework, and studying a priority but you still need to make time to relax. Friends are one of the most important aspects of college. It?s important to make good friends that you actually enjoy being around so you can have someone to talk to when you get stressed or frustrated. The biggest piece of advice I would have given myself is to stay motivated. In college it is easy to just want to give up, go home, and have your parents take care of you, but you have to remember that college is part of the bigger picture of your life.

Don't be afraid to open up to people especially those who want to help you transition. Develop an adjusted study schedule and stick with it. Be smart with your time and use it wisely. TIme management is key because you have much more freedom than you did in high school. You must be able to disciplline yourself and become self reliant. Surround yourself with good people who share the same standards. Network with people who can help you get where you want to be. Don't be afraid to try new things and have an open mind. College is a time to grow, learn, and become a better person. Its a fresh start for a bright future. What you put into it is what you will get out of it. Lastly, its important to have a balance between academics and your social life. Academics come first which means you won't always get to go out with friends or go to that party. Get help when you need it and don't get behind! Don't forget to have fun though. You only go through this time of your life once so make the best of it. Enjoy yourself!

One thing that I constantly thought about as a high school senior was, "What is college really going to be like?" Most people said it was much harder than high school, there is many opportunities to make friends, get involved, and to spread your wings and grow as a human being. Some of these things have turned out to be true, but some of them have turned out to be not true, which brings me to the question. If I had to go back in time, what would I tell myself? I would actually only say one thing. Expect anything, because college can be rough at times but, as long as you are ready for some of the tough times, it will be much easier to deal with those times, and move forward to the good times. Doing homework until 5 AM only to have class at 9 AM can be a real downer, so keeping your chin up and your mind forward is very important to having fun. Trust me, once you see college, you might never want to look back. It is the best time of your life.

Dear me, As you get ready for your first year at college, here's some advice to get you going. First of all, even though the heat may seem unbearable, it will get better. Within two weeks the weather will change, so you'll be alright. Second, confront your roommate quickly. Tell him about the rules of the room, and don't let him run you. Towards the end of the semester he will have no respect for you, so deal with him quickly. Thirdly, study as often as possible and really read every assignment. Media history will be hard if you don't read everything, so be sure to read! As far as the online quizzes go, write them ALL down in your planner so you won't forget! Infact, write everything down as it comes up in your planner! Use that thing religously, and it will keep you on track! The last thing I have is this: open up to your friends. People will befriend you, so don't be shy around them! There is an amazing, fun, loud side of you that needs to come out! I'm proud of you for taking this step! Sincerely, Ezekiel.

I would tell myself to branch out a little more. To strive to be a better student and all-around person. I would tell myself to push myself harder not only academically, but also athletically. To make that jump to a different team to possibly better exposure.

Learn as much as you can. Take as many classes that interest you as you can. Avoid the high school drama--it is wasted time. Focus on your goals and do well in your classes. Participate in the available activities and don't let anyone tell you that being a good student is dumb or unnecessary. You'll do better in college if you do your best in high school. Have a job. Do some work in your community and really enjoy the time spent as time well spent will not be wasted or forgotten.

Jena, there is no reason to freak out about leaving home and going to Tucson. You will fit in perfectly. I know you have been uneasy because you feel you are the only one who will not be drinking at any of the parties and will be the outcast if you join a sorority. It is not like that whatsoever. First of all, there are so many girls in the sororities, which creates the highest range of personalities. Because of this versatility, the majority of the time there is always someone who will have some sobre fun with you. Even if there is not, the students will not judge you if you tell them no to a shot of liquor. I have been told many times that they respect me for that. Your fear of becoming a drop out or having to switch your major should be squashed. First semester of college is a lot adjust to, but you adapt just fine and second semester will become a breeze. Enjoy the rest of your senior year and be patient with your friends. Relationships in college change, so make the most of the time you have with them now.

Hey John! Heads up dude college is around the corner its time to get serious. Trust me...you are going to want to be part of a four year university. They are more fun also you mature and grow as an adult by being on your own at college. Community college is exremely lame. Basically its an extension of highschool except the fact that you probably wont meet a whole lot of new people and many older people attend . So listen up, apply to some colleges because a four year universty is where you belong. The atmosphere on campus is so positive and you enjoy the feeling of wanting to be at school. That is completly opposite from a community college campus, which brings you down and doesn't allow you to enjoy "the college experience" to the full extent. So go on Johnny, put your self out there and do it like the company Nike! It's your time to shine and strenghten up, man up and do this before your time is up.

I would have advised myself to get more involved with on-campus activities. I am satisfied with my current social circle, but wish I would have taken advantage of the clubs and organizations on campus. If I had I may have found more friends who share my same ideals and beliefs. The group of friends I possess

I would remind myself in choosing my college major that, ultimately, I am the person whose life is the most affected by the decision. I would recant my years in college to my high school self, highlighting that even the threat of financial security didn't stop me from dropping midway through a rigorous healthcare program to pursue a major that I truly love - architecture. In the last three years, the unhappiest - and the most critical - moments of my life pushed me to seek refuge in what lightened my heart and brought vivid imigination to a starved mind. The decisions we make in life are never final so do not be afraid to reach for what you truly desire. Even though my own parents declared healthcare to be my only suitable field and that following a career in the arts would lead to poverty, I need to follow where my interests keep returning because the passion that arises and grows from those interests will motivate me to learn faster, study harder and dream larger. Today, my new major isn't dreary and burdensome like my previous one; it instead challenges me and paints my once faint dreams in solid realities.

You really need to look harder at your financial situation.

If I could go back to my senior year of high school, I would love to tell myself to STUDY for all of the AP exams harder than I did that year. AP classes can take an individual so far in college; there will not be a need to worry about general education courses because they are already out of the way. I would also tell myself to honor the purpose of money and not to take it for granted. It is indeed something that makes life very difficult and very easy at the same time. Being financially responsible is a part of becoming a responsible adult. The transition to college was extremely easy due to the friendly people around my campus, however, I would tell myself not to hide who I am inside; basically, being honest to myself.

I would tell myself that not everything can be planned for and that when unexpected opportunities arise, take advantage of them. This can come in the form of a trip with friends to visit a school you never heard of, which eventually becomes the one you go to. Or it could be something as simple as talking to the person who sits next to you in the first day of lecture and three years down the road you two are best friends. The transition to college life is scary, nerve-racking, and a different experience for everyone. But, because the transition is so different for everyone and such a life changing experience, you need to take full advantage of all opportunities. When you go to visit a college, make sure that you take time after you are done with the tour of the campus to just walk around by yourself or with your family, and really ask yourself is this the place that I can see myself doing great things at for the next four, six or even eight years of my life. Who knows? Maybe the opportunity of a lifetime is waiting for you just around the corner.

One: Begin taking college courses in the junior and senior year of high school. Community college classes are good ways to prepare yourself for the transition because they're a mix of highschool and university courses (has structure of a university course, but isn't as difficult). Also, you can get as much of your General Education courses out of the way so you can focus on courses relating to your major. Two: Research EVERYTHING you need to know about your major. Make a rough four year plan and set a goal. You won't follow it, but at least you have a sense of direction. Pick a major that YOU like, not one that will make your parents happy. College is tough. If you don't like what you're learning, then it doesn't matter. Even if you pass all your classes and earn that degree, you won't be happy. Why suffer all those years and then end up with a career you hate? Three: College is expensive. Get a job. You'll get money and lots of job experience to make your resume look good. Experiences are more important than Straight A's.

It is going to work out, I promise. You do not have to decide what you want to do for the rest of your life today, you have time. Savor the time with friends and family, soon they will become a occasional phone call. Just because this is your last semester, it still counts. Do not slack off. Yes, it is going to be hard to leave everything you are familiar with, but these next few years in your life are going to be the best. Apply for every scholarship you can, you are going to need the money. Live your last year in high school to the fullest. Go to every football game, dance and assembly, you don't get all of that in college. And lastly, you may not believe it now, but Tucson is going to be home.

I would tell myself to study hard, and to be less shy. Its much easier to make friends if you just be yourself!

If I could go back in time and talk to myself, I would definately tell myself to apply for more scholarships ahead of time. I would work hard to participate in extracurriculars and sports. I would urge myself to take my education seriously and to work hard to get into a better college. Some invaluable advice would be to apply for on campus housing and FAFSA as early as humanly possible. Most of all though, I would tell myself not to stress, but to prepare in the right ways by developing study habits and life skills that would help me in college, with things as simlple as going to bed on time and cleaning up after myself.

Relax when walking into that first auditorium classroom and don't panic about your first exam. Sorry about all of the short answers, but while I am serious about this application I am a science major afterall...

I would take full advantage of AP courses. The regular courses did not really prepare me for the sciences and math in college. I love the campus and the atmosphere regardless though! College is amazing!

If I could go back in time I would tell myself that Dual Enrollment classes would cut out a significant cost for my freshman year of college. Also I would tell myself to start buying things for my dorm room throughout the year as I see them go on sale or if there are great coupons. In addition I would tell myself that being away from my family is challenging, and a great way to stay in touch with them would be to purchase a computer camera. Then I would tell myself to find a well paying job and put in as many hours as possible for the random expenses, and fun expenses, that may come up while you are away from your parents to help establish your independency. Finally, I would tell myself to cherish every moment with my family while I can because we all will not live forever.

?Character cannot be developed in ease...only through experience of... suffering can the soul be strengthened... and success achieved." -Helen Keller (1880-1968) I attended the same college-preparatory charter school from 6th grade through graduation. I didn't get to experience things that most other high-school students do, such as football games or prom. I spent my time studying as hard as I could under the impression that it would be worth it when I was accepted into the university of my choice. However, one thing my adviser didn't tell me was that when I was accepted into the college of my dreams, I would be unable to attend due to financial reasons. If I knew then what I know now, I would encourage myself to be realistic about college and take myself less seriously. It's important to experience more than academia in high-school, so you're ready for college. However, unlike other students who I am sure have faced similar problems, I was forced to endure a terrible personal tragedy in my freshman year. I would tell myself to call my grandparents every day and say I love them. I will always regret this.

The advice I would give my high school self would be small yet brilliant ideas. I would tell myself that I will be best friends with my roommate so don't worry about it. Then I would give myself advice that I should bring shelves, food, and decorations. By bringing these items, the dorm room will feel like my home and I will be comfortable after moving in. I would reccommend that I should buy a new bike and buy a basket for that bike. Lastly, I would emphasise the need to research the teachers I was going to have beforehand. I had a horrible math teacher my first semester so I would make sure I wouldn't take that class. It is important to have a good teacher so that the student will understand the concepts. If the teacher is aweful then how can the student learn? I would emphasize this to myself to make sure I understand. Overall I would reassure myself that college is where I should be and that I will love it. Attending this University is the best descision that I have made so far in my life.

When I was a senior I was worried that one of the only campus activities would be parties and drinking. I quickly found out that it is not very hard to find a supportive group of friends that enjoys almost any activity, especially the ones you enjoy yourself. I would reassur myself of this fact to eliminate anxiety. Also, I would suggest, especially for someoen travelling so far from home to be as open minded as possible to their new surroundings, no matter how different they are. It will not help you to be intimidated or judgemental about people around you, as they may very well become your family away from home and friends for life. Once you have found your own space in the world, never be afraid to ask those around you for help. Everyone needs to support each other in order to make it through the college experience. Lastly, never be afraid to make a fool of yourself. Never let a fear of failure stop you trying something new or taking a class that interests you. On that note, always be open to new experiences and you will get the most out of college.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a senior in high school, I would tell myself to take it easy. The transition from living at home with your parents, to living on your own in a dorm without parents takes a huge responsibility. I've found that in my first semester of college I took advantage of my freedom, not to the point of getting in trouble with the law, but to the point that I felt guilty. As a student in high school, your parents are around so you are controlled, in college there is no one around to tell you what to do and things get hectic. I would let myself know that the rest of my life is ahead of me and I don't have to rush into things so quickly, instead to take things with ease and slowly learn. If I would have done this I think my first semester would have gone over more smooth, but at this point I also wouldn't know as much as I know now.

Relax. You have time. Realize that yes, college will be hard, it will test you mentally, physically, and most important, emotionally. Even with all of the challenges however, it will be one of the most rewarding experiences of you life. As long as you keep focus and remember you have family and friends that love and support you, you will do fun. It may seem stressful now but you will be fine. Apply yourself to your schoolwork and always make the deadlines. College is about balance. Don't think you have to beat yourself up over every little mistake. You are going to make a mistake, probably more that once. Mistakes are not just a part of college but also life. The important thing is to learn from them and do better the next time. It's okay to not be perfect, no one is. And even if it seems impossible to leave your high school friends and your family now, it will be alright, they are never further than a phonecall away. You will meet so many new people and friends and in no time you will be an independent, successful woman. Be prepared and have fun at graduation!!

If I could go back in time, the most helpful advice I could give myself (aside from advising myself against my high school fashion choices and charming strangers in clubs) is to stop worrying so much. As a high school senior, I was worried that I wouldn't do well in school, that I wouldn't make friends, that I would fail out and disappoint everyone. In reality, college life wasn't so bad at all and there were always people; classmates and faculty alike, who were more than willing to help out. I sold myself short in my first year of college because I was afraid to step outside my comfort zone; I avoided classes I thought would be too hard and people I didn't think would accept me. My time-travelling self would smack my high-school-senior self and tell me to stop being ridiculous! I would encourage myself to take chances; talk to new people, take difficult classes, apply for scholarships, study abroads, jobs, anything! I think taking the stress and pressure off of myself would have helped greatly, the transition doesn't have to be intimidating, just be open and ready for anything!

I would first off try to REALLY encourage myself to research different areas of study that I would be interested in studying. It is a great help to start college pursuing a degree that you are content with. It is not always bad to change your mind, but make sure you do that soul searching in first year if possible. The main goal is to not get behind on coursework. It is also immensely helpful to keep up with your classes. Do your homework in advance as it will help retain the information better and will result in better grades. DON'T GIVE UP! If you have trouble understanding a hard subject, just ask for help. There are many different FREE resources you can go to get help on campus. Start making friends in all your classes. It will be very helpful when the time comes to study for exams and discuss homework assignments. Make sure to attend all your classes! Try and live life with no regrets and make the most of your time spent at the University of Arizona. Before you know it, the years will go by and you WILL have something to show for it!

I would tell myself that everything is going to be ok and to just breathe. When I was a senior in high school, my mom was diagnosed with stage 3 malignant mellanoma. It was probably one of the hardest points in my life. It is hard to hear that the woman that I admire and love so much, may not live for another year. I was not sure if going to school away from home was best for me, especially when my family was struggling with my mom's recent news and the expenses that come alone with that. My mom and dad insisted that I go to school as planned. I have made wonderful friends, love my classes, and most importantly my mom is doing great. Knowing now how everything has turned out, I would tell my old self that yes some days are hard, you will cry, you will struggle, but everything is making you a better and stronger person. Also, by going to school as planned I am making my mom happy by having her see me happy and loving life. I am being the best Eleanor for my mom and myself.

I would have told myself that it's okay to go to a in-state University. Though out of state universities ofer great advantages their is also a huge advantage to being near home. Eventhough I wanted to go to an IV University I have found that the University of Arizona was actually the right fit for me. I also would have told myself to apply to a smaller amount of schools because in the end you only go to on University. I also would have told myself to take things easier and to not myake my senior year so hard. In the end, I believe that if I had not taken so many AP classes I would have been able to learn the imformation easier and faster. Now knkowing what I know, I take the time so that whenever I get into a situation that I got into highschool, I basically tell myself to have patience and listen.

My family has always been very close. I grew up acting as a second mother to my two little brothers, helping them with homework and packing their lunches. I never thought my mom could not do the job, I just loved helping my little brothers grow up. What was scariest about the thought of leaving was no longer being a close role model to my brothers. I was very hesitant to leave my family behind and venture to another state away from my main support system. I was afraid to give up watching my brothers grow up. My college experience has proven to me that the bond a family has does not change with distance and I am greatful for that. Worried that I would turn into someone my family no longer knew, I would tell myself that the transition from living at home to being independent is not scary but instead exciting. The shift in life style does not change you completely but instead improves on the person you were to help create the successful person you will become.