University of Central Florida Top Questions

It is important to be prepared both mentally and physically for college. This involves being organized with scholarship and grant applications and meeting the numerous deadlines. College life is a series of deadlines and staying organized. Being prepared keeps the stress level down thus keeping me healthy. Priortizing my projects, classes, and fun events will keep me overall a well rounded individual.

If I could go back in time, I'd tell my younger self to "think about your intended major more and the schools that actually offer it because yeah you can always switch majors or transfer schools but sometimes that messes you up because the next school might not accept the credit or the credits that you earned may not be necessary for the major that you are switching to. High school was all fun and games, you could get away with not studying until the night before and still end up acing the test. Don't get me wrong college can be fun too but when you get there you have to put a lot more effort in if you want to keep the same kind of gpa that you had in highschool. So what I'm really trying to say is that life is all about changes, you just have to learn to adapt to them and you can start that now by planning more about your college career."

If I could go back in time to speak to myself as a high school senior, I would reassure myself that there is nothing to be afraid of when coming to college as a freshman. I would knowledge myself by expressing how important it is to not slack off, especially your freshamn year. Most high school seniors think that freshman year is a breeze, but the reality is that it requires a vast amount of time and effort to academically succeed. I would tell myself that college, even as just a freshman, is a phenominal experience filled with education, social advances, and fun. I would want myself as a high school senior to know that college is all what you make it to be. If you go in with a willing and postive attitude, you will experience the best time of your life. In a nutshell, I would want myself as a high school senior to close my eyes, take a deep breath and invision all that you desire your college experience to be, then open your eyes, and make it happen.

Say I pull a Marty McFly and get a glimpse of myself in the past, as a senior at Booker High. The first thing I would do is shake myself until I was convinced this meeting was not a dream. I would tell my seventeen year old self that focusing on musical theatre would only set back my college aspirations. I would advise myself to look into Communications and film so I could realize my true passions. One of my regrets is that I didn't look before I jumped over the candlestick to land in a pile of sorority girls and frat boys. I would hand the young Brittany a pamphlet of the areas around Orlando that would motivate my creativity rather than stunt it. Also, I would hand myself a Bob Dylan record and await the future.

I am still currently a High School Senior and i will attend UCF in fall 2010.

The advice I would give to myself is focus. In school I always did enough to just get by. I was on honor roll alot times but did not really try. I would have told myself to always go the extra mile do not stop when something is just satifactory go for excellence. Also my first to years I did not try really but when it came to my last to years of high school I was doing everything in power to make up for the two years I blew off. I wish I could have really told myself is that those are my two most important years. These two years give me the start off to having good gpa, honor society, and other programs. In high school they gave us the option to do work and projects at our leisure. In college they give us deadlines, due dates, overnight. I would have told myself in high school to do a little work day by day instaed of procrastinate, rush, and become stessed out. I can say that I have grown and matured from high school and I am glad to be effectively using my advice today.

As the first person to go to college in my family, I entered my university completely blind to what events I may experience while here. If I could give myself advice as a high school senior, I would make sure to give myself three imperative pieces of advice. The first piece of advice would be to not judge anything too quickly. It took me about a month to completely adjust to college life, and I am still experiencing new things each day. The second piece of advice is to get as actively involved as possible. I knew I did not want to join a sorority, so instead I got involved in my area council and joined a spirit group. The final piece of advice I would give myself is in my eyes the most important; having fun and experiencing what your university has to offer is essential to surviving. Working hard is always important, but rewarding yourself playing hard is what will keep you sane here, and is what will make your college experience beneficial, and rewarding.

I would tell myself to start practicing a bigger sense of discipline now and remember to study hard and make a list of priorities. I would tell myself to get more sleep, and often. I would ask myself to not shy away from new experiences. I would tell myself to invest in less time worrying and more time believing in myself. I would encourage myself to try to spend more time with my family, because when you get to college, that is unfortunately not always possible. I would tell myself to save and not spend frivolously because money gets tight and every cent counts. I would leave myself with one certain piece of advice and that is: even though it may get tough and the stress may pile on miles-high, your true friends will always be there. But most importantly, I would tell myself to remember who I truly am when I get to college, because your self integrity is the most important thing.

I would have told myself to look into mor scholarships and funding .

Given the chance to speak with my high school senior self I would say that there is no need to be afraid of what it is to come and I should try to have fun with the education that I am going to receive. As a senior I often worried about the tedious work and tough teachers that I would have in college. After beginning my college career I realized that college was not too different from high school. In the same sense, I would have told myself that I should have fun with my college career. I would let myself know that it is okay to take electives that interest me and to have fun with the other classes that I do take. There is no need to sit quietly and keep to myself in class; instead, I would let myself know to make friends with my classmates and to speak up in class. I feel that letting my high school senior self know these things would have allowed me to be less concerned with the start-up of my college career and I would have been able to relax and better enjoy my first semesters of college.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would have told myself to get ahead. I would want myself to look at my major and see what classes I could get a head start on by taking AP or dual enrollment. I did do dual enrollment (I took chemistry II, world religions, statistics, and a computer class) but it would have benefited me more to take physics and statistics and my computer class fell under the same category so it was a waste. I would tell myself to also begin to talk to advisers at my university and begun doing volunteer activities that had to do with my major and look for research opportunities. I would also tell myself to get a job, because college is expensive but also very busy. I would tell myself to make sure I attend all my classes and study but not forget to have fun. I would remind myself that time management is very important, to fit in studying and fun activities. Most importantly I would tell myself to exercise regularly and eat well because it is really hard to get sick in college.

There are many things that seem up in the air for you right now, but one thing is certain: a college education is a must in the ever-changing cultural landscape of America. To succeed, you must make it your aim to receive the kind of education necessary in order to equip and prepare youself for the future. The college experience is a time for growth, maturity, and networking unlike any other. Utilize every opportunity to meet new people, immerse yourself in different ways of thinking, and critically analyze the information put before you. College is where you develop your individuality. Think about your passions, hobbies, skills, and talents. Use these thoughts to select your course of study for college. Study what you would love to do. The program areas are full of students your age that are pursuing a high-paying job. The only way you will excel and exceed them as a better candidate for a career is if you truly enjoy what you are doing. Our country needs people that love what they do, not only because it results in a paycheck, but because they enjoy contributing the way they do.

I would tell myself to study hard and apply yourself. The professors aren't going to push you as much as the teachers did in highschool, so push yourself. I would also tell myself to determine my college path by my dreams and not let the influences of others determine that for me.

I would be more set on what I want to do for my major or minor, and not let anyone hold me back. Take the classes that I want, be in a school that cares, and recieve the right financial aid funding. I've had nothing but problems since i've transfered to UCF and currently hate it here, I am hanging in to graduate Spring 2011 because I've got to take a class that is only offered in the Spring at a school with 53,000 people.

In my high school senior year, I have always asked myself about what is the degree that I will be seeking in college? What do I like to do in life? These questions have always wondered me until I have discovered my passion in the medical field. From this moment, I decided to pursue my pre-medical degree and become a doctor. In my culture, females have less educational privileges than males; women are more likely to embrace themselves in the household where they take care of their husbands and children. However, for me, the United States was an opportunity to start the profession that I have always dreamt to accomplish. But still, becoming a doctor was not the appropriate choice. Not until Later, I have realized how much I appreciate my cultural values; I want to have a family and raise my children. Today, I am still in the health profession studying to become an SLP. In year or so, I will have a family and a job. My advice that I would have given myself is not just benefit from a great educational experience, but also keeps in mind the priorities that I have been raised on.

Well if i could go back and do it all over again I would have tried to involve myself in more activities, be more focus when it comes to getting things done early and network myself around all positive people. Experience has thought me to b sure about my goals before I jump into something that Im not sure about. And also knowing what I know now, I would have a job to decrease the amount of student loans I currently have now.

I would tell myself that it is going to be a hard road ahead, and to get myself together and study, not to slack off. I would tell myself to be responsible, and not to squander money and time that could be used for so much more, like good grades and savings. I would explain that even though it feels aweful, living far away from home, it is a life lesson i need to learn, to be on my own, and become a responsible adult. I would tell myself that I can do it.

I like this question because my brother is a sophmore and I feel when I talk with him I go back in time. I tell him to do your best in school. Having fun with your friends should not cost you a lower grade. I tell him to take as many advanced classes as possible, saving you time and money. I tell him when he gets to college he will love the freedom and opportunity but he won't get the chance to experience any of it if he doesn't get into a college. I tell him to enjoy high school and the support you get because when you go to college you are on your own. And because I know from expeeriences my friends have encountered, I tell him to always be smart, safe and follow the rules of the United States of America. With good choices I have been able to live my dream of college life.

I would advise myself not to be afraid of making the transition to college. I would also advise not to get caught up in other things out side of school.. Try to get a part time job instead of a full time job and concentrate on getting started rather than wait a year after high school graduation. Continue to stay focused on your education and don't let anyone derail your goals.

Really, the only think I would say is, "Stop questioning yourself and listening to what other people have to say rather than what you have to say. It's your life to live and make mistakes, don't let others choose which mistakes you'll make, get out there and figure them out on your own."

Talking to the past me would have surely helped me transition easier into college life. I would tell myself to stay true to who I am and never change for anyone or anything. Stay focused and always keep my eye on the prize and don't be afraid to ask for help if need be. Don't spend money on things that are not needed; have fun but be safe as well. Choose your friends wisely. Make time for yourself and don't work until you?re exhausted but still know how to have fun. I you want to do something do it, don?t wait for anybody else to tell you and don?t get discouraged if your friends don?t believe in you. Stay in touch with those that were there before college. My last words of advice would be to not be so hard on myself, stay calm, don?t rush, have fun, and enjoy the ride!

I would advise myself to create a plan and do some research on colleges. I went to high school in Jamaica and as soon as I graduated I came to the states I entered a two year college. I did not know what to expect so I just learned as I went along by asking questions, making friends, and just learning from others experiences. Also, I would tell myself about the huge class sizes and how lectures operate. I would explain the cultural diversity that is prevalent through most campuses. I would also tell myself about the wide range of choices I have in terms of majors and career paths. I would explain how you get to pick the days and times you want to go to classes and that you can choose to go to school for a full day. I would explain about student housing, roomates, and on campus involvement. Last but not least I would explain the man opportunites for funding education eg. scholarships, and grants. I would just tell myself to prepared and make the best out of every opportunity.

First: don't freak out. College is not as scary as it seems when you start and syllabuses always look worse than they really are. Second: treat the professors with respect and like they are human -- it goes a long way. Seriously if you just say hi and ask how they are doing when you see them their a lot more likely to take time and help you out when you need it or forgive an absense. Third: ALWAYS show up to class unless something major comes up -- you never know what your going to miss or how it will effect your grade. Fourth: double check all your paperwork, make sure you've recieved confirmation that they got it, and check fincial aid accounts. Mistakes happen especially during the busy part of the year and a missing peice of paper work can really mess up a semester. Fifth: Help out the other kids in your class. Whether it is letting them make a copy of your syllabus or tutoring them it all helps out -- they'll help you if you miss something and tutoring helps you remember the information when you get to the test.

Knowing what I know now, I would urge myself to apply for more scholarships before the school year began in order to be able to afford it better. Also, I would tell myself to be open and friendly. Never discount somone as a friend just because they don't fit your previous friend "design". I would advise myself to save my money and be efficent with spending. I would tell myself that it's not as stressful and scary as it seems, for once you move into your space, you feel at home. It's a good feeling to be independent. I would also start focusing on having strong willpower. One needs to be able to prioritize properly in order to keep one's head above water. College is about making friends and transitioning to independence, but also academics.

A perennial honor roll student who graduated in the top 3{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of my class, sadly the sum of my highschool experience was classroom, homework and grades; a singular focus that allowed me the luxury of a personal universe which provided sufficient distraction and refuge from the many scary things which make up teen life. When not focused on school, I was captive to my trepidation, held hostage by my discomfort of things unfamiliar and different; so I didn?t join any clubs; play any sports; or make many friends. If I could give myself advice, it would simply be this: More than our families, friends or careers, our willingness to explore and face our fears is what defines you. Success in college, like life, is calculated by our willingness to engage uncomfortable ideals and unfamiliar peoples and places. It?s okay to feel awkward but not to allow that feeling to keep you from reaching out and connecting with people. Okay to fail but not to let the fear of failure deny you your greatest opportunities for personal evolution. The value of the Colligate experience is as much about the opportunities for personal exploration as it is about a degree.

If it were possible to go back in time, knowing what I know now, I would tell myself to not to stress out over transitioning on to college life and the new environment. Amidst every guidance councelor warning that it would be one of the most difficult steps in life; had I known the process was not so difficult, I would not have lost endless nights of sleep over it. I would advice myself that the one thing to cherish while it was available is the time being away from my family. Being hours away from home was the most difficult part about the transition, and I would advice myself to enjoy that precious time while I took it most for granted.

If i could go back in time and talk to myself as a highschool senior and advise myself about the transition of college life i would say; manage your time wisely and find more efficient study habits. I would tell myself not to lose my way to my career after college. most college students tend to lose thier way, and fail out of the university they're attending. I myself had lost my way, and allowed the college life sway me away from my goals, but with a harsh taste of reality I had found the tenasity to push forward.

I would advise me to prioritize homework assignments above all other activities, including sports and social events. I would advise me to tell my friends that my focus is upon succeeding in life by excelling in my studies. I would make sure my friends knew that this means that I do not value them any less, I just value a productive education and career more. My time would be prioritized such that time spent in sports or social events would be a reward to myself for accomplishing first things first, ie. my homework. I would recognize the short term nature of high school and college compared to the length of my life and future. While focussing on a productive education and career I would be careful to not focus so much on me that I miss the opportunities to contribute to others and my community. Only through a balanced lifestyle can I be truly fulfilled and happy. I would try to be more of a leader for my friends and take a stand for whats right instead of just going along with the crowd.

This is a very good question, because I have wondered myself if I could go back in time to high school would I change anything. During my high school days I was not a very motivated person, and really had no goals other then just being successful but I had no idea on how to accomplish that feat. I had no mentors, no positive role models, and no inner drive pushing me in a direction to make the best out of highschool and come out on top and go to college. So if I were to go back in time I would try and advise my past self as a mentor and would motivate myself in a positive direction so I would not be lost when I make the transition from high school to college which is a whole lot different because everyday you have choices to make. When your parent less and on your own in college from, what to eat, where to go, should I even go to class?, should I even study or drink all night with my buddies? I would just simply advise myself to stay true, befriend positive people, and follow my moral compass.

If I was able to go back to high school and talk about my transition to college, I would say to myself, "Continue with your plans on joining the Marine Corps, it will be the best decsion you have made in your life so far. When you choose to move on from the Marine Corps, you will be in much better shape to start and finish college. Keep working hard and you will be able to accomplish what ever it is that you want to do."

The advice that I would give myself is to not be afraid. I would tell myself that as long as you apply yourself, you will succeed. I would, also, tell myself to stop being shy and to break out of my shell early on. Get involved immediately and meet new people.

I would say to be well educated about your decision and have fun with it. College is where you will become an adult and learn to be on your own. I chose a school with a great college town feel and great academics. The diverse school along with the great programs set up for studens is what made me feel welcome and at home. I would tell myself to visit every school campus until I had the gut feeling of where I should go. I knew instantly that UCF was for me and from there I had fun with it. As a senior I would not stress so much. This transition is meant to shape the person you will become. I got into all the clubs that interested me and had fun with the new friends I met. I learned that if I don't do the dishes, my mom won't be here to do them for me. College life is totally different and it's amazing. Advice to senior me? Calm down! Research the colleges! Have fun and be excited for one of the biggest hurdles of my adult life!

If i could go back in time and talk to my self. I would say "self". Self say "hmmm". "Make sure you put in-state on your application because out of state is expensive and you will have enough money for books and supplies. Make sure you call every one who can help you financially and don't hesitate. That's what they are there for to help. Do not get the impression that they will yell at you for asking help. Also take the right classes for your major and ask questions about it. That way you won't have to change majors and result to panicking because you didn't know what questions to ask to get the right answer.

As a high school senior, my plans to become a "new me", to engage in a ridiculous number of social activities, and to finally be friends with "those girls" that everyone wanted to be involved with swirled around my mind constantly. By attending the Univeristy of Central Florida, I was able to discover the person I hid from in high school. It's not "uncool" to say no because I have to study and it's okay that I workout everyday. I'm not ridiculed as a "perfectionist", daily excercise doesn't mean I have some sort of disorder, and being ahead on my homework doesn't make me a nerd. It makes me, ME. If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I'd tell myself all of this. I'd tell myself that college isn't like what anyone has ever told you. It's way better. I'd tell myself to be myself now, that I never had to wait until I was out of my "boring small town" of Fernandina to unleash the real me on the world. I'd tell myself that I am ready for this.

If I could travel back in time to see the very nervous high school senior version of myself, I would tell her to trust her instincts at all times. Back when I was a senior in high school nearly all the people I talked to, including friends, family, and faculty, had strong opinions on where I should go to college. I had so many different opinions being thrown at me that it made the extremely important decision even harder. While nearly everyone wanted me to experience university life right after high school, I was interested in enrolling in the community college that was just ten minutes from my house. I was very unsure whether I was making the right decision at the time, but I inevitably accepted a full academic scholarship to that same community college and I never regretted the education or experiences I gained there. Trusting one's instincts is not only beneficial for academic choices, it is also invaluable when dealing with social situations and making friendships. Now that I am about to graduate from UCF and thus facing the decision to apply to graduate school, I need to trust my instincts now more than ever.

I did not go to high school. My family was very poor and I dropped out in the 8th grade to get a job, and much later got a GED so that I could attend college. If I could go back, I would tell myself to stay in school, although it was difficult because there are a lot of opportunities you can only get by going to high school.

If I could go back in time and talk to myself I would tell myself to be prepared and have fun. College is a time for discovering who you truly are and to make lifetime connections, and I want to take advantage of that. I woulda also tell myself to be self motivated because in college you are on your own. You make your decisions and suffer the consequences for them. Last but not least I would tell myself to never settle for less when you're capable of being the best. College is very competitive and doing the bare minimum is no longer acceptable.

Never wait untill the night before exams to start studying for the exams and I will pay more attention in class.

I would advice myself to socialize more. As a college student, I see that networking is essential especially for post graduate employment searches. I would advice myself to began making connections as a high school senior and work harder to get more connections as a freshmen in college

My senior year of high school was quite devastating to me. My mom was deported back to Haiti, so I was forced to raise myself so thinking about going to college was the last thing on my mind. If I could go back I would have gone straight to college because had I done so I would have my masters degree by now and would be more stable than I am now.

I would tell myself not to let procastination get the best of me. The structure disappears when you enroll in college. Assignment due dates are given to you the first day of class, and you are not always reminded when they are due, versus high school where you saw a teacher everyday and they made sure you wouldn't miss particular due dates. In college you have to keep on task, which can be difficult because of all of the free time you have on your hands outside of the 15 hours of class each week. You must become more independent but not to the point that it interferes with school work. For the first time you have no one watching over you to tell you what time to be home or what you need to be working on, you have to figure it out yourself. The best thing to do upon entering college, is add structure to your own schedule. Plan out your days including meals and study times, and make sure you stick to it.

As a high school senior, I did achieve academically and I wanted nothing more than to go to college and succeed and have a career. If I could go back in time I would tell myself that nothing else matters except a good education. I would let myself know that I need to stay focused on my dreams and that the transition into the college life will be hard at first but will get better in time. Extra curricular activities, volunteer work, and success academically are the most important things that you will do while in college to land that dream job that you have always wanted. Integrity, respect for yourself and others and honestly will take you to great places in your college life. I would also tell myself that college is not just about partying, and good times with friends, it is about your future and what and where you will eventually be one day. College is not the time to slack off and just make it by, hard work and dedication are primary tools to help you succeed and put you on a great path to a rewarding life and career.

I would tell myself to not work as much as I did and focus on completing my AA degree faster. Also overwhelming myself with a course load produced better results than taking fewer classes. Finally I would tell myself to look into jobs that I want and pick a major for those jobs. Oh yea one more thing...have fun.

I wish I colud actually do this. I would tell myself to pay attention, pay attention to life. I would encourage myself to get my head out of the clouds and start working at becoming a responsible individual. I would tell myself that I shouldn't chase such lofty dreams, dreams that I was not prepared to chase anyway, but rather chase the thing I love, chase the things I know I should be doing. I'd tell myself to be a teacher. I'd tell myself that money will not lead to the happiness I desire, but helping and teaching other will. As far as college life, I'd tell myself not to fear. It may sound scary or difficult, but it's actually pretty fun. I'm better suited for college than I ever was for high school. So just do your best... And don't go to film school!

You shouldn't be scare about not knowing many people at college, because everybody is nice and willing to be your friends. You will need to focus more on your work, and try to save more money so you can go to school witout worrying about money. Start thinking about what you really are passionate about so you don't change your major so many times, maybe doing a lot of more research. Try to be more serious at school, because most people who go to college are serious and really care about their studies unlike high school. Plan everything ahead so you don't miss any deadline and so you can find the classes that you want at the time you want, if you wait until the last moment is really problematic. Try to engage and all the activities that school offers, does not matter if you are by yourself, you'll definitely find people who you can talk to. Do your best for and prepare for college life !!!!.

Now listen up Ms. Laura Shafer. Stay focused on what you want out of life. Yeah, I know its your 'senior year' and you want to have as much fun as possible. You can still have fun but it is important to understand that high school is just four short years when the world revolves around you. Once your out of high school, the little society of people you have known since elementary school will dissapear. You will enter into the real world. When I say 'the real world' I don't mean the show on MTV. It's time to grow up and realise nothing is going to be handed to you anymore. Mommy is not going to pack your lunch and make sure you are doing all your homework. Her job is done, it's now your job to put your self on the road that leads to a bright future. It won't matter who made captain of the cheerleading squad when your sitting down for an interview with the president of Fox News. High school is just the beginning of the journey, keep your head in the game and you will be a winner.

If I could go back to and talk to myself about college I would tell myself to take my classes more seriously and instead of worrying about the grade I get in the classs I should focus more on the material that is being taught. Also I would advise myself to take more AP classes so that when I do start college I can be ahead.

If I were a high school senior, I would go back and tell myself to apply to as many scholarships as possible. I would also tell myself to study more for the SATs and ACTs in order to have recieve scholarships from the colleges. Lastly, I would have told myself to save all my earnings from my part-time job in high school, because once at college the work becomes ingreasingly difficult and often proves to be too much work while being a full time student.

Back in the day when I was in high school life was easy. I was taking all upper level classes and I never had a problem with them. I never really knew any students who actually went to college for engineering before me. I really had no clue what to expect. Now that I have been here for 2 1/2 years I have finally gotten the hang of college life. If I went back to talk to myself as a high school senior I would have so much to say. But the most important thing out of everything I have learned here at the University of Central Florida would be learn to study now. That is the hardest thing I have delt with since I have been here. In high school I rarely felt the need to study. I understood all the material but going deeper into subjects would have helped me today. It would have prepared me for the hours that I have spent in the library studying for quizzes, tests, and exams. If I would have learned earlier, my first semester would have been less of a wake up call and more of a pleasure.

If I were still a senior in high school, I would definitely work hard to improve my SAT scores and apply for scholarships. Although the SAT score I received was high enough to secure my acceptance into college, it was not high enough to earn any academic scholarships. Aside from working on academics, applying for as many scholarships as possible would be a high priority. I am lucky enough to be able to take out student loans, but I would have liked to avoid having to pay for all of my education. I believe if I had known how important high SAT scores are and how important it is to apply for scholarships, my college expenses would have been cut in half.