University of Colorado Boulder Top Questions

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

Myles

If I could visit myself during my high school days, I would go back two weeks before my senior project was due and slap myself in the face. After my past self was done freaking out about being slapped by future me, I would say two simple words: ?don?t procrastinate.? It?s simple advice but it?s extremely important. I found that the transition from high school to college wasn?t that difficult; the only difference is that you have to manage your own time. You don?t have your teacher or mom yelling at you, saying to get started on that essay. In fact, college professors could probably care less if you did the assignment- it?s just one less thing for them to grade. In college, you?re completely on your own. This brings me to the most important advice I could give anyone, even myself: in college you can?t wait until the last minute to do everything. If you do, the tidal wave of work will destroy you. I would tell my past self to manage my time and don?t wait to write that twenty page essay the night before it?s due.

victor

I would tell myself what I tell everyone at everything.... just go with the flow and say yes!! tons of people are going though the same as you are, and really, money is not a problem. lots of alternatives are available even though that was my biggest worry in going yo college. who knows, maybe you'll stumble upon a short survay that just might pay you 5000 dollars.

Joshua

I would pick classes better, and talk to my advisor more.

Meghan

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to really truly find myself before I make a decision on where to attend college. The college you attend affects your friends, your education, and ultimately your future. I would also tell myself to remember where I came from and how I was raised. I was raised as girl with good morals that will go places in life, do not forget that! College is not a popularity scene nor it is one big party, you will be tempted to neglect schoolwork but if you stay focused you will achieve the success in life that you deserve. My final advice would be to avoid fear, go out and meet new people, broaden your horizons, sail wherever the wind takes you, and have fun.

Andrea

If I could talk to myself, I would say, ? Listen up. I?m going to give you gold by telling you how to succeed in college and stress less! First of all, yes you got into the college you wanted, so quit worrying and start those scholarships, for that is half the battle! Start early, start now! We both know drinking and partying had never been your thing so no problem there, however your two greatest enemies, organization and procrastination, will destroy you. Follow these three guidelines from the beginning and you won?t waste a whole semester struggling. First, get a couple of calendars. Write everything down, all events and deadlines. Your A.D.D. and forgetfulness will kick your butt unless you write it all down. Second, all weekend homework should be completed on Friday. Trust me, you will save yourself from many Sunday all nighters and enjoy your weekends much more. Third, buy a digital recorder before classes start. This is your best investment. We struggle so much with note taking. Record lectures so you don?t miss half the lecture just trying to write it down. So that?s it, be confident and have fun!?

Allison

As individuals, so often we look into the past and think about what words of wisdom we could provide our earlier selves. As a highschool senior, I initially chose to move to Los Angeles, take a year off of school, and pursue a career in the commercial dance industry. After a year and a half of inner battles, I decided to move back to Colorado and and attend the University of Colorado at Boulder. Although my transition was slightly different then an individual moving straight from high school to college, my advice to myself would be to whole heartedly embrace the decision I made to take a year off despite adversity. Moreover, I would advise myself to relax and realize that I could always choose to go to college. Now that I have made the transition from Los Angeles to college, I would tell myself to allow life to take her path while still remaining focused and determined. So often I created unnecessary stress for myself , and now that I am here living my goal, I realize all the worry and stress was frivilous and unimportant. Living in the moment diminishes the regret of the future.

Micah

If I could go back in time, I would tell myself that the most important aspect of the college experience is choosing a major that I loved and could see myself doing after graduation. I would mention that I should spend that first year of college exploring a variety of possibilities to get a feel of the difference disciplines out there. Most colleges require their students to complete a core set of classes that are set in stone for each and every student of the college. By taking these classes first, one can get a good picture of what they may or may not like. I would also tell myself to study smart and not to study inefficiently. It is important to study the appropriate amount of time to complete the course, but one can miss out on the other wonderful experiences of college life if that is what they do all the time. Studying is not about how much time you spend--it is about how you engage yourself in the material. If done right, there should be plenty of time to spend with friends and to experience the campus to its fullest extent!

Stuart

Me: "Howdy." Stuart: "Howdy." Me: "You don't recognize me?" Stuart: "Um...You kind of remind me of...oh...Wow." Me: "I am future you. Or, rather I am Me in the past, the same as you, Stuart, someday will be." Stuart: "Figures." Me: "How so?" Stuart: "Well, you look enough like a "starving artist" to pass for Me. " Me: "I'm sure. In fact, that is what I want to talk to you about." Stuart: "Stereotypes and cleches?" Me: "In a way, yes. The future abounds with them. While cleches make good sense, however, stereotypes do not. "Life is a journey," hard, though necessary. You will take more from experiencing the next five years than if I revealed it to you now. This is the dawning of the age of discovery. Merely by existing, you will come to know the outer world and your inner self more thoroughly. This processes, though, necessitates that you remain open to them both. Stereotypes only inhibit your freedom, your liberty to learn. So, embrace this opportunity. ?Walk a mile in another person?s shoes,? ?wear many hats,? and then ?be the change that you want to see in the world.?

Sara

Dear Sara, As a high school senior, I would think very critically about your decision for your career. Freshman year of college will open your eyes to several opportunities, however, time and money are crucial. You must know that after a year of college you should make a solid decision on your career. Otherwise, you will spend time (and lots of money!) on working towards your Bachelors. It is unfortunate to put this kind of pressure on you, but you must understand how imparative it is to organize and plan ahead. It will take a load off your shoulders, believe me. In the meantime, you will absolutely LOVE Boulder. You will discover the gorgeous, rugged outback trails of the Flatirons and the fresh air amoung the trees in the fall when you jog through The Hill. You will also meet all kinds of people from all over the world! You will even be politically influenced by the liberal atmosphere. Boulder will challenge your study habits and time management. Your will need a part time job. Understand that Boulder does NOT have any cheap, conveinant houses or apartments to live in. Enjoy this time of your life! Sincerely, Your future self

Samantha

If I could go back in time and give myself advice on the transition to college, I would tell myself to get a move on! I would tell myself that the environment of CU- Boulder needs me. There are so many people here that are wonderful and are waiting to get to know you. They can help me, just as I will help them become what they need to be in order to be happy. I would tell myself to approach college with wild abandon and not wait so long to put my best foot forward. I would tell myself that while college is big and different and sometimes overwhelming, it will be a place where you meet and learn with the most wonderful people you have met in your entire life. I would tell myself that today is the day; don't make your dreams wait forever.

Leeah

I would tell myself to work harder, visit more colleges and not base my decision on sports, and apply for more scholarships and grants. I had no help and no idea about what to expect going into college, but now I do. College is expensive and you need all the help you can get. I would tell myself not to fly by my senior year and to take it as seriously as I had my other years. I would also tell myself to pick an affordable college I will like, not one based on if I get to play basketball or not. I can't settle on the first nice school I see either. I didn't know a lot about grants and sholarships either. I would tell myself to look into and find all the free money I can.

Leo

If time travel was possible and I could talk to myself as a high school senior I would say many things. First off I would tell myself to take more AP classes as they count for electives in college. This would lessen my credit hours per semester and make focusing on the more important classes easier. I would also tell myself to not slack off because college is all about working hard and getting to know all of the information in a class. Working harder in high school would have made the transition from high school to college a much easier process. I would also tell myself that college is going to be more like real life, living away from parents and figuring things out on your own, so figure out what are the best ways for me to study and get my work done now so when I go away to college I would be fully prepared. Even though I recieved over a 3.3 my first semester of college the most important thing I would tell myself would be to get study habits down, try harder and get ready for an extreme change into a college life.

Hannah

One - have fun. You only go through high school once. Two - say high to those antisocial people in the hallway who are trying to fade into the woodwork and pull them back into the real world. Three - don't worry, those shirts you see every girl around you wearing will go out of fashion soon. Four - remember that school is about learning, not about homework. Five - get a job, college is expensive and the money isn't just going to magic itself into your bank account. Six - smile even when you don't feel like it, it's contagious. Seven - walk barefoot in that Oregon rain and smile Eight - this is the real one so listen up: stop being so closed to people. People are generally good but they can't will you to open up. Real friends want to know you at a deeper level so let them. Don't tell yourself think it's better to keep secrets, it's not. In college you will find wonderful people but if you keep this up you won't ever be able to truly connect to them. Allow yourself to relax, stop thinking so much, and just talk to people.

Joseph

Remember to have fun and for your classes make sure to set up study times and dates to meet the teacher and find out what they want for the course. College will offer you lots of opportunities and you will make lots of friends but keep your head calm and build on those friendships, go out and party but make sure you finished the work you scheduled time for. This will allow you to have fun and get your work done. If you are struggling, ask for help the people here all want to see you succeed. Take time to explore who you are and do not be afraid to be yourself. College is a place where people are accepting of who you truly are and everyone is discovering themselves, it is not as judgemental as high school. Everyone is feeling the same way so don't hold back. Give it all you got and remember that Nothing Is Impossible. Love, Your Future Self.

Ashleigh

If I had the opportunity to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior i think that I would have some insight as to how to make the transition smoother. First off, I would tell myself to get involved as soon as possible. It would be most beneficial to take self interests and find other people or groups who share the same passions. Secondly, I would tell myself to be as outgoing as possible. In the beginning it can be awkward meeting a bunch of however, it is necessary to jump into conversations in order to make friends and new acquintances. Lastly, I would say go into this new chapter of life with an open mind. It is a new experience and it needs to be approached with the willingness to adventure into the unknown.

Stephanie

If I were to go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would first give myself a pat on the back. Starting out school with a strong work ethic and dedication to my studies really helped prepare me. If I hadn?t managed my own schedule and pushed myself to get things done, I never would have survived college. In college, there is no one standing over your shoulder, reprimanding you for watching TV instead of doing the essay that?s due the following day. Instead, you have to be your own boss. Next, I would encourage myself to do many different activities on campus. Being at a large college, it?s easy to feel lost. By participating in intramurals, clubs and an honors fraternity, I was able to meet others. The more involved you are, the more likely you are to recognize people on campus. When you know a limited number of people, you can go a whole day without seeing any of them on campus. But, by being more involved, you don?t feel as alone. It?s a great feeling to have your own small community where you?re well known and loved.

Dillon

I would tell myself to stay focused on my academics. Read every required reading and complete every homework assignment. In college it is easy to fall behind in many of the classes. The professors are a lot more strict than high school teachers. Some professors pay more attention to the students whom make themselves known in out outside of the class. I would have also like to know that making a good professional friendship with the professors can help boost a grade. Also, preparation is a key once in college. You need to be mentally prepared to be on your own and completing all the tasks. Parents are no longer there to hold your hand, so independence during high school can benefit the transition to college life. A planner is every students best friend. Use a planner to help manage your time in and out of the classroom.

Sara

If i can go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I want to give a few advices that would make the college life better than what i experienced so far. First of all, i would say to not to get too much out of the grade. College classes are harder than high school classes. It's not about attending class and doing homework. You need to some extra study out of the class for every single subject. Although you study extra, it would stil be hard to get a good grade. So do not be depressed and get to much stress out of the grade. My second advice is that try to get involve in academic clubs as many as you can. Studying is important, however, getting involve in academic clubs are as important as getting a good grade. When you join the club, it is better idea to join the club that relate to you major. It will give you a lot of information in that field. Also you can talk to people who are on the same academic path with you . Lastly, be comfident and postive! It makes ur college life better!

Chynna

Ditch the boyfriend! Having a relationship with someone who does not go to the same school causes too much drama. You're going to put many constraints on yourself and in the end it will mean nothing. Detach now! You will be so much happier. Also, quit procrastinating and apply for scholarships. You need them more than you could ever know. Your freshman year is going to be a struggle and you do not want to pay off toms of loans. So get to it! Most importantly have fun and enjoy life. Quit worrying and panicking about everything. It is all going to be ok. Live a little. I know you are scared of everything, but I promise being adventurous will benefit you.

Clifford

Believe. Don't let yourself think that you can't do it. You always have been able to. Just believe in yourself, don't listen to others, your differences make you stronger, not weaker. You can go to Boulder and do what your great at, but prepare yourself. I know you were down, and didn't think anyone would accept you for a scholarship, but know what? Your a great choice, you'd probably get a few if you tried. You want to help people at your heart, and there is no better reason to go to college than that.

Tara

Be very prepared and eqipped for an entirely different experience than highschool. Professors and teachers are not as willing to let you slide. Obtaining a decent grade point average can make all the difference in the world. You will be able to set your standards high and allow a little bit of room for sliding if courses become difficult. If you find your path in life takes a different course, and you are looking to transfer to another school, some colleges require a high grade point average. Applying for certain scholarships also require that you obtain a high grade point average. Also don't ever allow yourself to fail. If you believe, you will achieve. Negativity and self-doubt will only cause you to try very little and believe that failure is alright. Stay away from all of the drama. College is not necessarily a place to make friends. You are there for self-discovery, to gain confidence and achieve success. If you possibly make good friends along the way consider yourself lucky. Making friends in college is an excellent way to find support when your personal and college life becomes difficult to balance.

Charlotte

As a 35-year old going back in time to my 17-year old high school senior self, I would first reassure myself that life is not to be taken so seriously all the time. Life definitely is a journey, not a destination, and we learn so much in the paths we take over time. Specifically, I would have encouraged my younger self to pursue several non-paid internships at architecture firms to determine whether that is what I truly wanted. I would not second-guess my actions, and always listen to my instincts; they have been true every time. Any time I don't take heed of my instincts, I mentally kick myself afterwards. I would advise to remain steadfast in the pursuit of my goals, and not be swayed by outward distractions. I would praise and encourage my passionate dedication to my goals. Lastly, I would advise to be wiser with credit cards, and to make every effort to pay off the balance every month.

Diana

I would give anything to go back and talk to myself as a high school senior. I would tell myself to take going to college more seriously. At the time, I didn't apply for scholarships because I thought my family had enough money for me to go. They had enough for my sister so I figured they had enough for me. They didn't. I already had my schedule for my classes at college. But when the due date for payment came around, we couldn't pay. I was crushed that I wouldn't be able to go to college that semester. While all my friends moved on to college, I was left behind. It makes me feel alone and like I'm missing out on everything. So, if I could go back, I would tell myself, "work harder, apply for scholarships, and do everything you can to get your education." Those words would have been so helpful to me.

Arielle

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would look at schools that were not just the best in what I studied but the ones I felt best suited me. Also, I would have visited all the schools I thought were the best fit and then decided to apply there. In addition before going to college I wish I could have learned time management a little better.

Leanna

Traveling back in time to give myself advice would be the most life changing experience. As a high school senior you truly know nothing about the college experience unless you hear stories, but college is different for each person. I would tell myself that trying to have long-distance relationships in college are implausible and someone will end up hurt. No one tells you that you need to experience new things in college and meet new people. Guess what, you do. College is what you make of it so go places and meet new people, this will truly enrich your life in college. Not only will you have friends to go out with but you also have new found family, whether you are in state or out of state, college is a scary place with out a few friendly faces to come home to at the end of the day. No one wants to be the alone so meet new people that make it so you are never alone. Another piece of asvice I would give myself would be to RUSH! Sororities are a huge way to meet new people and experience something new and interesting. Lastly just have fun!

Hunter

The time machine that I would use would become unstable and break during the time I would take to explain to myself the challenges of being in college. Sleep, time-management, stress-management, getting a tutor right away, attending study sessions with peers, taking advantage of office hours, genuinely getting to know your professors and TAs. Eat healthy, get a job, budget your money(this especially) use money saving techniques like coupons and the like. There are really so many things that i would have liked to have known going in to my first year in college, learning them the hard way was not very fun at all. also, dont do drugs!

Brittany

Don?t worry. It?s not the end of the world. When I was a senior I had near panic attacks about what I was going to do with the rest of my life. People told me that a college student can change their major 5 or 7 times and a career just as often, however that advice never calmed me. So I would tell myself to just take general classes at first, physics, programming, circuits, materials and energy balances, etc. A major can be declared at the beginning of my sophomore year, so I still have a year to decide on that. Also, CU has great professors with industry experience and a good career service center. Decide on a major first and what I want to do with that major can be decided later. Fields of emphasis or study can be decided be listening to what the experts say about industry. You can?t decide on a career until you are ready to graduate anyway. There is still time to make up your mind and find a field you like and want to stay on. You are on the right path, just keep studying hard and stay focused.

Christopher

I know your passionate about what you do, but make the smart choices in the future. I'm not gonna tell you which way you should go or what your gonna face when you get there because I already what you've decided to and which college your going to pick. But what I can tell you is to keep going. Even when everything seems like its going downhill, keep fighting for your dream. You were not meant to be ordinary so don't settle for an ordinary life. Remember your favorite Nike Slogan: JUST DO IT! Don't make excuses, Don't cry or complain. JUST DO IT

Andrew

I would tell myself to pay attention much more in my high school classes as college is not as easy as I thought it would be. Also I would've told myself that not going to class is the biggest waste of money and one of the stupidest things to do in college, no matter how many of your friends are doing it. I'd also say to always remind yourself of why you are there, for SCHOOL, and not to PARTY, although they both can go hand in hand as long as school is the number one priority. There are a lot of distractions in college but always stay focused on the task at hand and remember that in these times, a bachelor's degree is almost necessary to get a decent job after college, so study hard and go to class. Also I'd say to take advantage of all the academic help you can get-tutors, professor office hours, and study groups are a good idea, and they do not make you look like a geek if you utilize them. I would finish with study hard, but always remember to have fun.

Jessica

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, in regards to college life and making the transition, I would tell myself to be prepared to meet people with completely different backgrounds, interests, and personalities than what I was used to my entire life. I would also tell myself not to rely on my parents too much or go home within the first month of school. Although being away from home can be tough, simply waiting it out, meeting friends, and getting involved will make the transition so much easier. Additionally, I would tell myself to take classes that interest me, especially if they fulfill core requirements. I took a philosophy class last semester even though it didn't interest me, and that was a big mistake. Enjoying the course material will help make the first semester a success!

carly

If I gave myself, as a high school senior, advise about college, I would tell myself to think honestly and figure out what things I need in my life in order to be happy. Important aspects of a university are a good reputation and high academic standards, however there are many other things to consider. Tons of schools have great academics, however I know I would not be happy at all of those schools. As a senior in high school I applied to universities because they were the most popular, not because I knew they had things to offer that were important to me. I didn't realize how bad the subzero wisconsin winters were and how not being able to go on trail runs could affect my happiness so much. I also made the decision to go to a different university than my identical twin sister. If I could go back I would tell myself to go to the same school as her. There is nothing I would not give for my sister to have been at my first solo flute recital and to have been with my sister as she was going through a hard breakup.

Alicia

If I received the opportunity to go back in time and talk to myself as a senior in high school I would tell myself to focus on finding more scholarships so that my family wouldn't have to struggle financially. I would tell myself to take more college courses to give myself a hedstart in the type of classes I would be taking in college. This would also put me ahead in classes and I could take less credit every semester. This would help me concentrate more in my courses to earn better grades. I would tell myself to learn my study habits and what strategies are more efficeint for my learning styles. Going back in time would be an opportunity that would help me out academicaly and financialy. I am proud for everything I have done, but I wouldn't turn down the opportunity if I had the chance.

Xochitl

Take your education seriously. Yes, it is important to have a social life, but learn to balance your study life and your social life. Be willing to always choose school over partying. Get your degree while you are young. It's harder to learn when you are dealing with a husband/wife, children, home, etc... Go to your professor's office hours and get to know them. You would be amazed and how much they know and how cool they actually are and how they are willing to get to know you, so get to know them. Be willing to give yourself a break when you need it. Don't stress over minor stuff. Remember there is always someone wiling to help you. Cherish your friendships. Find your community and embrace it.

Megan

It does get better. High school is just the jumping off point and who are you in high school does not define who you are in college. Everyone gets jitters and becomes nervous about starting a new period in their life, but it will be easy to adjust because everyone is in the exact same place you are. You will find new friends and even though your life will take a different turn, there is no reason to fear it. You will be just fine. However, make sure you keep on top of all your work. Its easy to put it off until the next day, but having everything finished will make your life a lot easier. It feels like you have so much time to finish everything you need to finish but the time goes fast. Most importantly, don't take any moment for granted because it all changes so quickly. Your life next year will be completely different from this year so just take some time to enjoy life as it is.

Cheyene

Going into college, there are two very important things to remember: always be yourself, and if you're not happy, it's not worth it. If you're not yourself, you will end up with friends who are nothing like you and you may not enjoy this. Being yourself will make you happier in the long run. To be yourself will also help in defining who you want to be in the future. It will make visible the dreams you have and goals you want to accomplish. Live as yourself and no one else. Also, if you find yourself unhappy, fix that pronto! Life is too short to be unhappy. If your decisions dont make other people happy, you have to think about the long run. If you know things won't get better, then change it. It's your life and now is the time to decide how you want it to turn out. Be yourself, happy and content with where you and who you are.

Erica

I would advise myself to not get bogged down in worrying about what kind of career to pursue. Instead, explore a number of different fields in your first couple of years. The great advantage to a liberal arts school is the opportunity to take courses in a number of different academic fields. This ability to explore various different fields allowed me to find the field that I was passionate about. Heading in to your first few years, you are most likely to change your mind often about the kind of career you will eventually pursue. Pegging yourself to one specific field may prevent you from finding a different field that you may not have considered before, but ultimately find yourself inspired by the subject matter. It is absolutely paramount to find the field that you truly enjoy, not simply to career that you think you see yourself working in. Finding your passion will ensure that you will be happy in your future career objectives, and you may even discover a side of yourself that you never imagined.

Cameron

I really wish I could do this exact thing. I would love to tell myself that college is not a cake walk like high school. You actually have to work very hard to do well at all. You have to go to all your classes and do all the reading. Cramming is not really an option like in high school theres too much material. You have to the work as its presented to you or ahead of time to do well. If not you will get to stressed out. You also have to study for tests ahead of time not just the night before. Basically, don't overestimate yourself you have no idea how hard this stuff is going to get. I think my G.P.A. would reflect it if I heard that before i headed up Boulder.

Jessica

Comparing the person I am now to who I was in high school, I would tell myself to not always take life so seriously. Simply put, I am a workaholic. I get bored easily and therefore fill my time by doing anything from nannying to volunteering to studying rather than just relaxing. I have always worked hard to get the success I desired, and therefore many times I fail to relax and enjoy everything that is around me. As I approach my graduation this semester, I have realized I have not lived college to its full potential but I cannot regret how much I have grown or the person I am today. I wish I could return to my freshman year and stay out until 3 in the morning before an 8AM class or just radomly head to the mountains for the weekend and do some shredding in the fresh powder. I know that I cannot go back in time, but it is a lesson I have learned through my journey through college and hopefully I will rememember to take my time and enjoy life on my future endeavores.

Keith

Don't be afraid you are about to begin the greatest journey of your life thus far. You will meet so many people and make so many new friends. You will learn so much in your time here. You will learn who you are most of all. You will struggle at times, especially financially, but that will only build your character; everything will be okay. so just have fun and do well.

David

I would keep busy with school work over summer break to ease my transition to college level work. I would also assure myself that socially, the transition would be succesful and easy. I would also try and meet more people from my local area that would be attending the same school.

Arsene

hang there and work very hard

Kurt

I know its exciting becoming a college student but try to keep everything organized because a lot of new people and experiences are waiting for you. Always keep your priorities in order and you will succeed at the highest level. And most of all, have fun!

Audrey

At CU, the transition is easy but you cannot pick your roommate! The freshman year in the dorms is the most important in terms of the relationships you'll make and keep through college. The people you meet in your dorm are the people you'll hang out with and love for the next 4 years. If you can stay in the dorms longer than a year, do so. Being a resident advisor is also a good idea and saves you tons of money.

Jonathan

Freshman year can get very lonely at times. There will be times when you feel like you don't know anybody and that's not just because you are homesick. There are all sorts of people in college, and it is very different than home. Find a good hobby you enjoy and stick to it but be sure to keep an open mind about other opportunities out there. Try hard in school, and be sure to balance your social life with your academic life.

Garrett

Make friends right off the bat and don'd spend all your time with one person. Girls can wait, focus on school.

Sonia

Take advantage of this opportunity to explore who you are and make decisions that are best for you. Hold your judgement meaning this requires you to have an open mind.

Arsene

Following your passions can greatly help you in gaining admittance to universities. My best advice for juniors about to plunge into not only the world of a high school senior but also the world of preparing for college is to take initiative. spend time applying for scholarships like it was a second part-time job. Keeping things organized is very important. I kept a folder with copies of transcripts, award letters, recommendation letters, acceptance letters, etc., all the information that scholarships typically request. My recommendation to other parents is to get their children to visit many college campuses at an early age. Most colleges run sports/arts/robotics camps. So, whatever your child's interest is, send them to a camp where they have a chance to stay in a dorm and meet students who attend college.

Gavin

Participation inside and outside of the classroom is crucial. There is nothing more important you can do for yourself. The phrase "don't let your classes get in the way of your education" is all too true. Experience the world on your own for the first time without your parents. Take advantage of your freedom but use restraint and know your personal limits in everything you do. College is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and it is importnat to take advantage of that while at the same time doing your best in your courses.

Meghan

Looking back at my senior year in high school, I realize the majority of my time choosing colleges was filled with anxiety and stress. How could I find the perfect college for me? And what if the one I choose ends up not being perfect? If I could go back in time, I would give my younger self some advice that would make freshman year a lot easier. Firstly, you can't just expect the college to be perfect. There is no such thing as perfect. Sure, many colleges are better choices than others for each person, but you will never find the "perfect" college. Secondly, you have to make an effort to enjoy this experience when you first move in. Try and enjoy yourself, try to go out and meet people. If you stay inside, scared and shy, you won't want to stay in college at all. And thirdly, keep in mind that every freshman is new to this scene. They are all moving away from home, and they are all put in classes with a bunch of strangers. You probably aren't the only nervous, shy one here. This advice should help make the transition more enjoyable.

Shawn

First off, do not be nervous. Every single freshman is in the same exact place as you; new envirorment, new people, new classes. But on the same note, don't be arrogant and think that you're better than everyone else. The last thing people want is to befriend someone who thinks he's above all others. Next, join a fraternity the first semester of freshman year. You're entering a completely new envirorment and won't have the friends to lean on like you've had for the past four years. The best thing you could do is to place yourself in a situation to meet a completely new group of friends, friends that will be there for you throughout college and perhaps for the rest of your life. Lastly, and most importantly, take college seriously. This is no longer high school , so getting good grades is a little harder than just showing up to class. In college, you must apply 100{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c}. You must go to every class, go to all of your teachers' office hours, and do every single homework assignment. To succeed in college, it is critical that you balance your social and academic life.