University of Central Florida Top Questions

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

Jose

I would tell myself to have a college in mind before leaving high school. I would also explain to myself how financial aid works and why i need to apply for it as soon as possible. In addition paying more attention in class will be more valuable due to the fact that college classes are paid for and not free like your ordinary public high school. Study hard and make a decision on what you want to major in ahead of time so you dont end up doing something you never had planned. You wanna look back on your life and know you made the decisions you wanted to make, not the ones were obligated to.

Blanca

Knowing what I know now, I would tell myself to apply for more scholarships, to make better grades, save money, and to do well on the ACT/SAT. I was also let myself know to live with my parents for as long as I can; free rent!

Amanda

If I was given the chance to talk to my senior self, knowing what I do now about the 'college experiance', I would say "stay focused." The first semester of college will seem rough and like nothing you do is good enough despite how hard you work. However, as long as you do the work required of you and honestly study, you have nothing to worry about. Don't be a hermit! College is give and take, give 90{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of your time to studying and getting the grades, but take that other 10{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} and have fun or else you'll burn out. By 'have fun' I mean enjoy the freedom. You don't have to party or drink, just hang out with friends on a Friday night. As long as you stay the studious person you are, you will do just fine.

Kelly

Kelly! You've really got to stop freaking out. Everything will be fine... Honestly, don't worry about making friends or if people will like you. College is about independence, being able to go places and do things on your own without holding anyone's hand. Freedom to do what YOU want to do when you want to do it. If you just relax and be yourself, you'll make friends in no time! As far as the actually work load? It's simple. If you really try your best and do all the work then you'll get a good grade! Also, never be afraid to ask for any help with anything if you need it. Another important thing is to stay focused! You are going to college and spending thousands of dollars to get an education....NOT to party and slack off all the time. It's ok to party occasionally but NEVER until all the work you have to do is finished. It's a great idea to have a financial plan of how you are going to pay for everything before you start. Believe me, it will take off A LOT of stress! HAVE FUN!!!!!

Jamea

I want to save this part and come back to submitt.

Jennifer

Based on my experiences, I would tell myself to find a college that fits my needs. Don't choose a school just because your friends are going there! Think about what is important to you in a school and go with one that fits the criteria! You want to be close to your dad because he's sick. You want a school that doesn't require you to live on-campus without your vehicle. You want a school that offers the classes you need, but not necessarily your major. You can always transfer after completing your core classes. Don't miss out on the clubs, organizations and other extras that college has to offer. It will help you transition to college life much easier. Don't be afraid to ask for help, whether its with your classwork, or because you are lost on campus. You aren't the first person to struggle and people are willing to help. Don't miss a class for no good reason. You never know when you really will have to miss class and if you have used all your days, your grade will reflect that!! And last but not least, enjoy it!

Shanir

Follow your dreams and never give up!

MOFI

I would advice myself to manage my time wisely in college because there is a time for everything. There is a time to play and a time to work hard. I would also advice myself to be involved in campus activites as much as i can because being involved helps one socially and mentally. I would advice myself to make the right choices when it comes to eating healthy, sleeping right, reducing stress and making the right decisions.

Katelynn

I would tell myself to research as many scholarships as possible and to get your admissions application in as soon as possible so that I could qualify for the multiple UCF Academic scholarships. I would also explain to myself that you have to apply to many scholarships before you win and to work really hard at it because in the end it really it worth the hassle and work. I would try to persuade myself to set up a schedule to help get all my stuff done, so that I don't get distracted with all my new found freedom. Also to get enough rest and not stay up till all hours of the night because no sleep catches up with you and when it does it hits you hard. And last but not least I would tell myself to go to the gym and exercise regularly to help deal with the mass amounts of stress and to help myself to not gain the much dreaded "Freshman 15".

Devin

I would tell myself to relax, keep working hard on school and push through a four year degree right away. Living on my own is not as important as going through the four year degree program. Maybe I will have different opportunities if I don't take the management route at the restaurant I work at. Take the time to branch out and do what I want to do before settling into life.

Kelly

When looking back at being a senior all that comes to mind is stress. Oh boy was there stress and I was not prepared for what preparing for college would bring. I was unaware of how time consuming the applications were, and the countless forms that had to be filled out, that asked such detailed questions, such as what color are the socks you are wearing? Knowing this I would tell myself to not spend so uch time worrying about what I'm going to be doing after the football game, and spend more time getting things in line for college. Also, everyone always says that high school is the best years of your life, and that gave me great expecations of high school. Yet, after my four years were over, I was dissapointed and thought that I would have had much more fun. So knowing what I know now as a college freshman, I would tell myself to not worry about '"living the fabulous life" in high school becauce college is the best years of your life, at least so far. You get to meet such diverse people and stimulate your mind in ways you thought wasn't possible.

Todd

Knowing what I do now after my first semester at the University of Central Florida, I would tell myself to keep two things in mind during my senior year. First and foremost, I would tell myself to practice my study skills and committ them to memory. The workload from classes overlap so learning how to study effectively and efficiently has definitely saved my grades. Secondly I would tell myself not to be afraid to try anything and everything, excluding illegal activities of course. During my first semester I have met amazing people from an incredible range of backgrounds. Trying interesting things out during my senior year of high school, such as volunteering with a number of organizations and participating with a number of sports and clubs, have made it easy to connect with these people. Experiencing even more would allow me to open up even more connections once I made it to college.

Lyndsay

Advice for myself if I knew now what I did know then!.... Be yourself! Don't mold yourself into something that others want you to be. Stay focused on the books, even the smallest mistakes can catch up with you. Be more involved in extracurricular activities, they build character. There will be plenty of time for boys in the future! Pack your lunch.... there's going to be a recession. Apply for scholarships and financial aid, books cost almost as much as tuition. Wear clothing under your toga! Treat your teachers with respect, remember they helped to get you here. Get used to Ramen noodles. Take the SAT test three more times, your score can only get better. Get along with all of your classmates, trust me you will see them again. Stay active after graduation, the freshman 15 is NO JOKE! Get a job and start saving. Have multiple back up plans. Kanye West is going to ruin the VMA's. Invest in a good digital camera, college is non-stop with things tou wont want to forget. Love Everyone! Finally, spend as much time with your family as possible, without them there would be none of this.

Ajoi

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would probably tell myself that first attending community college is one of the better decisions I had made in my decision. I would also inform myself to seek the possibilities of schools that are farther away from home and not to fear them because they can bring wonderful experiences if you are willing to take the chance. I think it also would have been a good idea to inform myself of the benefits of getting a job sooner, when it was easier to get a job than it is now.

Jennifer

I would just tell myself that I am smart and I will be fine as long as I do the best I can. Study hard but still allow yourself time to have fun. Once you graduate then you are officially in the real world.

Diemcac

In high school, everything came easy to me. I rarely studied and managed to pull of A's or B's in my classes. College isn't the same. Transitioning from high school to college, I got such a sense of freedom, I didn't know what to do with it all. I loved being able to do what I wanted, when I wanted, without anyone telling me what to do. If I could go back and give myself advice, it would be to put school first, always. I got so consumed in wanting to get the full "college experience", I didn't perform nearly as well in my academics as I could and should have. College should be fun, but my studies should come first.

Kimberly

I would tell myself to have fun in highschool as much as I could while staying on top of my studies because once high school is over college has a lot more responsibilites. So I would have tried to been more laid back but also prepare myself for future responsibilities.

Ashley

If I could give my high-school-senior-self any advice, I would mention two specific things. First and foremost, I would say "get a job as soon as you move to Orlando and immediately begin saving money. Anything you can put away into savings, do it." I would try to prevent my younger self the worry of paying for emergency expenses by mentioning this. The second thing I would say is "Don't worry about boys and dating right away." I had to learn the hard way that some boys are a distraction from school. My sorority sisters have made me see that no guy is worth so much heartache and stress. Especially, when dating him almost cost me my education, which I now realize would cost me my future and everything I'm working and studying for. All in all, I'd just be looking out for my younger self. Sure I'd reassure her that exciting experiences await her, but I'd also want to be sure that she was prepared.

Vicky

APPLY to AS MANY universities as possible! Do applications EARLY. Do research on all the schools and visit them. should've, would've, could've!

Logan

I would simply tell myself to relax. My knowledge of college was limited to what was provided to me by television or movies. It was a whole world that seemed to large to comprehend. I spent the majority of my senior year worrying whether I would be able to survive in college. I felt like no one would care if I succeeded or not, or whether or not I was utilizing everything the university had to offer. I worried about the infinite papers and endless nights of studying. I stressed over the vastness of campus, and the daunting task of meeting new people. What I have come to find is college is not as scary or unforgiving as the media makes it out to be. It is a place of promise and opportunity, a place that cares if I succeed. In a place like this I found myself at ease. So the one and only piece of advice I would offer the one year younger version of myself is to simply, relax.

Pamela

If given the opportunity to go back in time to talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself that things always happen for a reason. I would also tell myself that, "Even if studying seems like it's the most inconvenient part of school, you need to do it for at least thirty minutes a day for each class to fully understand what's going on in class. If not, you're going to fail." There are so many things that I feel that I wish someone had told me going in to the University of Central Florida. Though I had taken college classes in high school, nothing could truly have prepared me for what happened when I came to UCF. The last thing I would tell myself is, "Don't give up. So many people do, so even if you see yourself failing, don't give in."

Irina

If you are a fairly independent and a driven individual this would be a good college for you. If you don't care about how many students are in your class and do not get intimidated or feel lost in the crowd then even better because a lot of times the class sizes are large. If you like being alone for hours doing homework, then any college is the right thing for you especially this one. If you are motivated and your motivation does not waver thats a really good quality to have for a large university. If you know EXACTLY what you want to do in life, then its really going to be enjoyable. However, if this is not you and you are not sure, confident or need a smaller size classroom where everyone knows each other than a community college or a small college is the best thing you can do for yourself. I wish I would of taken my time, went peacefully to a small college or community college and saved money and the heart ache of feeling lost and unimportant.

Tyler

I would tell myself to take school more serious. The more you study and the harder you work, the better the pay off will be. Which will make the transition into the business world a lot easier....I'M SERIOUS!!!!

Brittany

I wouldn't have changed my life experiences for the knowledge I have gained. I have always had to work hard since high school from 9-5 jobs to being a current flight attendant. I haven?t had the option to finish my education due to finical reasons. I always had to put work before school. Now with my experiences it is my determination to add the finishing touches to complete my education by 2011.

Patrick

Part of the excitement and fun of making the transition to college life is the thrill of being thrown into a new environment that many new stundents may be overwhelmed by. Therefore I would be hesitant to hand back too much advice to my former self as exploring the unknown is the name of the game. However, I might advise myself to take advantage of every opportunity and to make as many connections as possible. Even the ones that don't work out provide valuable experience.

Anais

Anais, I know it's going to be hard to adjust to the new college life but here are some tips I know will help you get through it . You're going to feel very lonely, especially in an auditorium-size-class full of kids you don't know, so start becoming more sociable now so it becomes more natural for you to start conversation; It's really not that bad once you get the hang of it! And I know that at first the only thing on your mind is to party, party, party because of your new found freedom being away from Mom and Dad, but keep in mind that you're going to college so you can finally fulfill your dream of being a pediatrician, so start preparing to spend long nights in the library! Trust me, the day right before an exam coffee is going to be your best friend so don't listen to what people say about those drugs can can help you focus better if you're trying to cram before an exam, you're way better off studying without it, and if you can find a study buddy, even better.

Erin

I am a completely different person now than I was in high school, I do wish I could go back and talk to myself. I started college as a lazy-unmotivated 17 year old. My first piece of advice would be that attending class is more important than going to the beach. I learned over time that if I applied myself, it was easy to get straight A's. You get great satisfaction from achieving your goals. Next, I would tell myself not to get discouraged if I am not sure which career I want to pursue. A lot of people go into college unsure on what they want to do, there is time to decide, and you may discover careers you never knew about. Also, I would tell myself not to be afraid to ask questions or go to a professor for help. My favorite classes have been where I got to know my professors, and it made learning easier. I try to give this advice to current high school students I know, because I wish I had known this as a senior. In another year, I'll have even more advice, because you're constantly learning new things.

Autumn

"I scramble into class, hoping this was the right room, clutching onto the multiple textbooks and notebooks in my hand. My hair, which is tied loosely in a quickly constructed braid, has found a way to obstruct my view to my seat. I finally find my way to my seat and search my black hole of a purse for my pencil. "Ah-ha!" I say to myself, feeling more settle then before. The professor walks in just as I have arranged all my books and paper, the lecture begins..." This is how the first semester of college occured for me. Constant chaos and upheaval. But in the end it was all worth it. If I could go back and tell myself what I'm experiencing now and advice myself how to make the transition, I would simply say, be prepared, focused, and determined. College takes more time, energy and above all personal responsibility. I would advice myself to continue working hard and find a way to balance life and prepare myself for more stress and personal freedom. Knowing what I know now, I would also tell myself, when things get tough, and they will, hang in there!

Terrance

"Terrance, I know that your youth is very precious to you right now, but embrace life slowly. Approach it one step at a time because priorities will be overlooked if you rush. Enjoyment may be strongly desired, but succes in your future is of essence. Possibilities are endless, but opportunities are limited. Therefore, stay focus on what's important like time management, organization, and determination. Change can be critical, but it's a way of life. Take pride in what you achieve and set out to better your accomplishments. Never be discouraged and always maintain an open mind because you are highly capable of excelling all expectations. Just believe in yourself and prove yourself worng by going beyond any doubts and tribulations. I know you will do well. Take care."

Patricia

I am 33 years old and I graduated high school 15 years ago. I dropped out in 2 years. I got two athletic scholarships to play basketball and volleyball. I was so excited to get out of my living situation as a high school student, I didn't give college much thought. I just figured it would be my ticket to a better place. I really loved the atmosphere of city life. I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I started a liberal arts degree and found that partying, hanging out with my friends, and traveling with sports that I forgot about the whole academic aspect of things. I wish I had given thought on what I wanted to do when I "grew" up more than I did. I sit back now and say those words to myself "would have, could have, and should have." Being a single mom now I now know how important it is to have a degree in this world. I definately would have told myself to go to all of my classes, I could have been more disciplined, and I should have tried harder. This time around I will!

Shawntavia

Self stay away from the bad habits that may come your way... Stay focused on your main goal OBTAINING YOUR DEGREE IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE. Don't let men use and abuse you. Its up to you t succeed no one is going to hold your hand and do it for you. Don't let anything distract you such as drinking, night clubs, and MEN. All of those things can wait, if you don't stay focused there is a possibility that you will end up in a very bad situation, you may end up a single mother with 2 kids working full time and trying to complete your degree, doing homework with 2 children running around you can be very hard. Focus on getting and keeping your GPA as high as possible so you can get the best scholarships availible so you won't have to take you any loans. Lastly FOCUS, FOCUS, FOCUS! Don't get side tracked on things that may look good, while it may be fun now it most likely won't benifit you later.

Katie

Be confident. You are so much more than what you think you are. College is scary, intimidating and full of unknowns, but the best part is it is your first chance to be free and independent. It is your time to shine and find out who you are and what you are like without the comfort of home. Do not start college while you are still in a high school relationship. Generally you experience your first love in high school and that feeling is priceless, but you should be completely free to try anything and everything new when you start college. If you are meant to be it will happen, but you should not be tied down when you start college. It is your time to be free and meet new people with new ideas and theories on all kinds of topics. In my opinion, one of the biggest issues kids have when first starting college is a lack of confidence: thinking you are not good enough or maybe you will not be able to finish. It is all mental, if you put forth the effort and have the confidence you will succeed!

Kyle

Take everything given to you as a grain of salt. Trust yourself. Play hard, work harder. Be frugal. Make friends, network. Read. Write. Imagine. Call your parents every month. Go to class. Take notes in class, then study them. Buy a bike. Lock your bike. Find something you really like, and don't give up on it. Understand that there is a time and a place for everything. Think then talk. Be prepared to make mistakes, so that you can learn from them. Stay organized. Introduce yourself. Eat healthy. Excercise regularly. Take care of your body and mind. Stay positive. Participate. Look for a job. Stay focused on what matters most.

Jasmin

I would have told myself that college life is great. As a senior, I was debating whether or not to leave home for college. There is so much freedom when I left home and it is truly a life changing experience. It is going to be difficult for some but I was going to do fine.

Crystal

Senior year rushed by with a flurry of tests and anticipation. College was right around the bend and many new and exciting oppurtunities were awaiting. There are some tips and advice I would have given myself had I known what I do now about college life, though. For a start, I would advise myself on taking AP/AICE Biology. Going back in time I would teach my younger version the importance of studying and effective methods to. In high school homework was hardly mandatory or even necessary, yet here at college it truly is the diffference between an A and a B. Organization would be a key concept; I have learned much about how to organize my own self without the aid of others. I would have also like to have known that balancing school and work is not as easy and that big city movie theaters do not allow you any time to complete homework assignments on the clock. It would have been comforting to hear that moving away is a harder transition then what I imagined and that even though I will miss friends and family I will be presented many oppurtunities for happiness and success.

Caitlin

Please listen to your parents, teachers and counselors. They actually provide useful advice on college issues. Apply like crazy for scholarships, because Bright Futures only goes so far (books, housing and meal plans still need to be paid for!). Being more aggressive while job hunting is something you need to work on; the job situation on campus is extremely competitive (and again, money is always needed when you're a college kid). As for your classes, work on your study habits. Your college classes are more demanding than most of the high school courses you have taken. And try to join more clubs once you get to college, you will enjoy yourself more!

Lauren

College is a difficult transition for everyone. Whether you are staying in the same area you grew up in, or traveling across the country to experience something new, it is scary. The two pieces of advice I would take to heart are to get involved, but keep school first. I decided to take the latter of the options when I moved from Arizona to Florida for my college education. Getting involved in any club or organization will automatically give you a number or connections. Although it is difficult to be alone in a new city, we as humans are social and need people in our lives to be happy. As soon as you begin school get involved in as many different activities as possible; it will make the transition that much easier for you. However, as much fun as it is to surround your life with fun activities and new friends, you came to school for one and only reason. That reason is to get an education. To succeed in life you need a solid education, no matter what dream you are constantly chasing after. You need to remember college is here to secure your future, above all other things.

Ericca

I would have given myself the advice of striving for the best. Every minute in high school counts. I would have reminded myself not to take things for granted at school. Keeping a very high GPA and doing whatever I needed to be on top is key in recieving scholarships and getting into the top schools. You have to aim for the best to succeed in life. You can't succeed in life without suffering. My education is the best thing I have and will earn throughout the years. It will help shape my future.

Jennifer

What i will tell myself back in highschool is to get a job. Knowing first hand that it is harder to come by one, even if for part time, now than it was back then. The next thing would be to make sure that you study, and study hard, because the teachers, even if they're nice and willing to help, can only help so far; you need to be able to do the work and retain it to the best of your abilities. I would also say to never goof around, it only messes you up in the future.

Tracy

Take your first semester seriously because your GPA starts IMMEDIATELY. See an advisor as soon as you can to work out your academic career because working through all the classes you need to take is a bit overwhelming. Don't go into college with the idea that you know exactly what you want to do with your life, because a semester in you can completely change your mind, and that's okay. Spend your first semester or two completely concentrating on your studies, because your study habits are going to set the tone for the rest of your time in college. Bad time management is a really tough habit to break. Get involved with an extra-curricular activity that interests you: you'll make friends, work hard and have networking opportunities. College isn't really worth it without the extra-curricular activities; that's how you get experience in the real world and where you'll make the friends and meet the people who will really help you get where you want to go in college and after college.

Cailey

Study harder! Hanging out with friends is important but don't risk failing a test just so you can go to Steak and Shake. Also, involment in drama is great but do not let it consume your life! Focus on grade and passing the AP test. Oh, and pick a different topic for the Shakespeare essay in English. Everyone is going to talk about Iago! Good luck!

Anna

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I'd tell myself to not spend any of my money unless it was required for something important. I have to admit that I had spent almost all of my money carelessly. I thought that I could spend as much money as I could because I had made so much from working. My whole family had warned and encouraged me to save my money and prepare to spend my it wisely. I wish I had listened to my family regarding money because they had told me that I had to help paying for school. Because I had disregarded their warnings, I had spent almost all of the money I had worked for on things that were insignificant and now my parents are paying for everything this semester. They will have three other children in college and three more on the way plus me and I wish I hadn't brought this extra burden on them. So if I could go back in time, I would tell myself to save all of the money I had worked for and use it wisely.

Katina

I would tell myself to be more careful with how I spend my money. I would do a better job at saving money, because eventhough the University of Central Florida is a nice school, I believe many of the textbooks are overpriced and leave a huge dent in student's pockets.

Alessandra

In high school, I saw going to college as a back-up plan incase my idea of becoming a famous musician did not work out. I worked hard in the music business and even gained some underground popularity, but not enough to pay the bills or have a stable income. Getting closer to the end of my college career, I realize that because of my view on what college was for when I was in high school, I wasn?t very picky about where I went to school. Looking back, I wish that I had insight to know I was smart enough and tenacious enough to make it in a really competitive school but instead of going for it, I took what was most convenient for my music career. If I could, I would go back and tell myself that I could do both and not to sacrifice one for the other. I would tell myself that nothing is a sure thing, so work as hard as I can at both to give me the greatest chances of success in my future.

Nina

Saving money is key! Tuition, books, class materials, and living expenses are expensive! Finding a decent job, and juggling work with school is a strenuous task. Don't forget to take care of Yourself. Your mental workout should equate to that of Your physical workout. Don't hesitate to take challenging classes, but know Your limits. Strive for the 'A', but don't stress over the 'B'. Define Yourself not by Your grades, anyone can memorize, application of Your newly acquired knowledge is the real success. Never give up! There will be times when You're lonely, stressed out, and tired; You'll want to go home, don't! Embrace everything as a learning experience, especially the negative events. Take Your time! There's an overwhelming amount of knowlege waiting to be absorbed, learn as much as You can. After college You'll have to work, a lot, You won't have half as many opportunities to learn. Take it one day at a time, and don't set Your goals in stone. As You grow You'll alter them, and that's okay. The only guarantee You have is change, so enjoy today and worry about tomorrow, tomorrow.

Amy

I am a student who transferred to the University of Central Florida going into my sophomore year, so I would definitely have advice to give myself as a past high school senior. I would tell myself to make sure you plan visits to the colleges of choice and really look into the fine details of campus life. Choosing a college is a big deal, and should be one that you make for yourself. Allow advice from others, such as parents and friends, but do not let them control your decision. Luckily I was able to transfer and am much happier at UCF then where I originally started. All the research I should have done in high school about college I ended up having to do in my freshmen year, because of unhappiness. Also, another suggestion I would given myself would be to take full advantage of the Advanced Placement credits offered for free in high school. Although I came to college with a few AP credits, you really do not realize how much they are worth and help out until it is already too late.

Sugat

College is so much more that just books, computers, money, and your carrear. Campus is the new world, where ones who are ready and willing to be taugh can survive. There are more to learn in University than the acedemics alone. To be successful note the following keys 1. Set rules 2. Manage Expenditures. 3. Network 4. Communicate Set rules - There are so much thing to do in college. So make a time table. Manage your time wisely. Save some time to study and party. Manage Expenditures - These days college cost you a lot. Keep track of your money. Check your bank statements. Know whats coming Estimate cost. Network - Make friends. Get in touch with fellow class mates and professors. Form study groups. Communicate - Express yourself. Dont hesitate. If some thing bothers you go and let them know. Good commucator is a vital skill.

Sarah

There is always something one wishes to go back and do differently, I know I could have tried just a bit harder during my senior year of high school. Most of all though, if I could go back in time I would have told myself to relax and just be prepared. I would say not to be afraid to take risks, that way I could have learned a little bit sooner to step just a bit out of my comfort zone. It is more of a shock to do so when you're already in college. College is an intense experience, whether or not your headed towards a vigorous degree program. It is a time where one can embrace so many new experiences and achieve so many new things. You're not only discovering more about yourself but more about the world around you through the thousand of new people you will meet and the exciting information you'll recieve from everyone around you. It is an entirely genuine experience.

Natalie

I would tell myself to try and get more leadership roles, work hard so that I can play hard, and follow my heart. Life is too short so you have to just go for it and do everything whole-heartedly. I would also tell myself not to be afraid to put myself out there, try new things, and just be myself.

Jace

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, then there would be a few things that I would want to talk to myself about. Firstly I would tell myself to pay more attention and stop fooling around. By the end of high school, I was so fed up with school life that I started slacking off and letting my grades slip. But now in hindsight, I have learned there is more to life after high school then just getting out, and if I had worked harder I would have had an easier time now that I am in college. The only other thing I would have told myself is to sign up for more scholarships. It seems funny that the only reason that I did not sign up for many scholarships is the fact that I could not seem to sit down and write a simple essay. I have already lost many great opportunities because of my laziness and procrastination that I could just go back and slap myself. Never again will I let that happen. I want to stay in school, and I need your help to do so.