University of Delaware Top Questions

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

Danielle

I would let myself know that college is going to be hard and really tough sometimes. However, it is easy to make friends and to find the right people to lean on when you need it. It is important to create a support system for yourself and to make sure that you get a lot of internship experience so that you can figure out exactly what you want to do in life. Don't get bogged down by the social scene, because the academics is what really matters.

Harrison

I would tell myself to just relax and enjoy the moment. Yes it is a big step from high school to college but it is not as bad as everyone thinks. I would make sure to tell myself that while it is fun to go out with friends, your school work must come first. The first semester of college I made the mistake of putting having fun above doing school work and I suffered for it. Although my grades were B's and C's that first semester it was far from the normal A's I get. Once I realized that school comes first and learned to balance my social life and school work, I have never made that mistake again of putting my social life first. I would tell myself that it is ok to go out and have fun as long as you know what priorities come first above all else

Victoria

Apply for scholarships and grants early, keep ontop of these applications so you can afford to go to school stress free instead of worrying about bills and whether or not you're actaully going to get in this semester. Make sure you live on campus. The worst part of my experience was feeling like I wasn't part of this school because I wasn't physcially living on campus. I literally went there to learn and it meant very little to me. I just wanted to get my degree and move on. The connections and networking that the clubs and organizations offer is invaluable, make use of them. Join them and stay connected with those friends. You'll find that those people show up in your classes and you will value their friendship and help semester after semester. Try to take care of yourself. Stress made attendence and studying that much harder, excercise and find peace! It will all turn out if you give yourself time and space.

Kyle

In the words of the great English leader Winston Churchill, “Never, ever, ever give up.” A simple statement for sure, but absolutely profound. Of course on some level this truth has to be ingrained into every high school student or no one would ever obtain a high school diploma. However, once in college, the essence of this truth is heavily tested as growing responsibilities and added coursework press even the most talented of students. There are small choices to be made every day for sure. Yet, the battle is often won or lost in those intense moments of do or die. Those moments when you have decide whether to go to bed or stay up and study one more hour, those moments when you have to decide mid-test whether to give up or press on and salvage a grade, this is where the battle is won and lost. So in the end, I do not know that I would tell my high school self anything I did not already know, but I would ingrain what I do. Fight hard, never give up, win the battles, for today’s battles bring tomorrow’s victories. Kyle Nyce

Elizabeth

Growing up, I always had a hard time understanding that I may not be able to be the best at everything. While this is a simple and well-known lesson, it is much harder to put into practice than it is to put into words. I expected to shine as I entered college by getting into every school I applied to, having an amazing roommate who would be my best friend for the rest of my life, and immediately diving into leadership positions while still excelling in my classes. I wanted to be the perfect student and have a perfect first semester. However, this year has taught me that perfection is merely an idea, and that not everything will work out exactly how I plan. I may not have gotten into every school or accepted to the positions I applied to, my roommate and I may go our separate ways after this year, and straight As may not be as easy to obtain as I thought, but in hindsight, those things have not prevented me from having a successful and enjoyable first semester. Keep your head held high, and remember that simply striving for perfection can also lead to success.

Jason

I would tell him to not go to college, to just get a job for life experience until he feels ready to go to college. Instead of going when I am not mentally ready for it.

Paige

If I could tell myself anything as a senior in high school, it would be to take advantage of scholarships. I applied to some, but I know I should have put more effort into scholarships and trying to save more money for college. Instead of doing the many scholarships my mom found for me, I went out with friends. I spent all summer with family and friends and didn't do any work. I would tell myself that t would be a mistake not to take advantage of opportunities. The one thing I regret has to be that I didn't try hard enough to save for college.

Alicia

Dear High School Senior Me, I want to start by saying live the next year of your life like the Bob Marley song " Don't worry about a thing, cause every little thing gonna be alright". Know that when you make a decision to attend a university there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, consider the quality of the education you are looking for, and know that no decision to attend a university is a cheap one so be mindful of costs. Second, think about the type of people you want to go to school with. Are you comfortable attending a school in which each face is a new one, or would you be more comfortable closer to home with many familar faces? The social setting you put yourself in will in many ways shape how you feel about your school. Lastly work your hardest and don't be afraid to try new things. For example if you get an email asking about trying out for the women's rowing team (which you will) go for it! Nothing bad can happen from you taking chances, you will either fail and learn from your mistakes or succeed.

Brett

When looking back upon my life since graduation from high school till now I would have to say an important piece of advice is to take your studies seriously. Do not goof off in the first two years of college because in the end, your grade point average does mean something, especially when you are trying to get into graduate school. Give everything you do, whether academic, professional, or personal, 110 percent. I didn’t learn this until my junior year of college and trying to bounce back from that choice was tough. The most important advice I would give to my 17 year old self is that no matter how much you plan life, things will not go accordingly. When this happens, do not sit around and do nothing, revise your plan and keep moving. I have encountered many forks in the road in life, some expected, and others not so much. Whether it was pursuing a different degree choice, not getting into a certain program, or getting into a tough graduate school program, take life one step at a time. It all works out in the end.

Michael

“Ring! Ring! Here’s your wake up call! This is where everything counts; this is what really matters. You’ve done pretty well in high school, but college is a whole different league. The classes will get A LOT harder, but you’ll be able to manage them. The thing that will hit you hard will be the social life. It’s oh so tempting to go out too often or to ‘relax’ the weekend before a test, but you MUST resist. College weekends start on Thursday, but lucky you has classes on Friday so suck it up and don’t go out! The key to thriving is balance; work hard during the week and enjoy yourself during the weekends. You must be smart and if you have a test coming up, ACTUALLY STUDY FOR IT and don’t go out that weekend! You have years ahead of you! You need both the academics and the fun, but you can’t let either one dominate your college career. Take advantage of all the opportunities, but don’t overload yourself. Keep adding activities until you are busy, but not stressed. Most of all, maximize your time at college!”

John

As a high school senior, I was very distracted by my social life and wasn't too concerned about college (although I knew that I wanted to go). I didn't spend much time on scholarships, didn't take AP classes, didn't apply myself; and because of this, I lost out on a lot of money for school (which I suffer greatly from) and had to go to a community college for a year. Once I finally applied myself to my school work, I became a strong student and I remain that way today. In high school, my GPA was around a 3.2~3.3 with average classes. In college, my GPA is a 3.812 and I have taken difficult classes such as; General Chemistry 1 and General Chemistry 2 (UD has a very difficult chemistry department), and received an A in each one. So if I could go back in time, I would tell myself to strive for great grades, enroll in AP courses, and take that final year of high school seriously.

Rachael

If I could go back and give my high school self advice, I would say be confident in yourself. The first few days of college is scary, no parents, new people. You have to assert yourself into the kids your'e living with in your dorm, they're all in the same position as you are. Make sure you come out of your shell a bit. Thats the best way to make friends on the first few days. Also in regards to education, it is imperative that you make a schedule for yourself on the weekends. Make a to-do list of what you have to accomplish so that your social life does not impede on your academics. You have to find a nice balance between school time and social time. Lastly, just because its college, doesn't mean you shouldn't be safe when out at a party. Never put your drink down, always stay with friends, don't take any drugs, and don't feel pressure to take a lot of shots or play "catch up".

megan

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I think that I would tell myself to calm down. I remember that senior year was a very stressful time because I worried constantly about which college I would attend and how I would fit in at a brand new school. So, if I could go back in time I would tell myself to enjoy senior year and to have as much fun as I possibly could. I would remind myself that while education should always come first, there has to be room for fun and relaxation. I think that I would also say that college is scary and amazing at the same time, and getting adjusted may take awhile. Most importantly I would tell myself to give everything and everyone a chance. I would say that it takes time to make friends and to find your niche on campus, and it takes even more time to get used to the different teaching styles of professors. I would tell myself that I learned that college is all about time allocation, and that if I manage that I will be just fine.

Alonzo

My advice that I would give myself is to plan ahead. Know which colleges you are interested in and do research in order to find out what you need to do in order to get accepted into a university/college. Take this time to improve all your grades and boost your GPA.

Maisha

College is synonymous for change, but a lot of people do not realize that it is not new change being brought upon us by life. Young adults do not become completely new and different individuals when they enter college their freshman years. Instead, they become more of who they have always meant to be. Everything around a person will be changing during his/her first year of school-- level of independence, scenery, friends, favorite things, etc. but one must remember that all this change is natural and will not change who we are unless we let it change us. We do not have to welcome these changes with open arms, because it is understandable as to how scary it can be, but we still must be give them a chance. College is a time to discover ourselves and that discovery cannot be made without the help of these changes.

Katy

Don't be so focused on making people like you, instead focus on liking other people. That is, do more for others and be more positive, improve on yourself. It doesn't matter if these people like you if you arent a kind person that likes herself. Use this year to grow into yourself so that by the time you get to college, you're more comfortable with who you are. And share that comfort.

Nicole

If I could talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to work diligently in the classes I am enrolled. Study to get the best grade possible and if you need help to do that, don't be afraid to ask your teachers for assistance. That is why they are there. Practice for your SAT test as often as you can to try to get the best score possible. Always keep an eye on your GPA. I think that being involved in clubs and sports is an important objective. But one of the most important things is to always try and give back to the community as much and as often as possible.

Kelly

I would advise myself that you need to study harder. I would advise myself not to have slacked off the first few years and focus more on my studies instead of my friends. College is a whole different ball game and while the pressure on you from the teachers is less, you have to put the pressure on yourself in order to keep up. College teachers do not play games when it comes to learning the material they are teaching, and if you don't dedicate your time appropriately you will miss out and most likely fail the class. This is a huge deal when you are actually having to pay for these classes and you are on your own. After high school, life does not slow down or get easier. Life moves on and progresses and you have to keep up or you'll be left behind. Friends don't last forever and neither do the good times, and I know its hard to see the future when you're living for the moment, but what I'm saying is the truth and only you have the power to change your life.

Natalia

Looking back at myself as a high school senior, I'd advise myself to enjoy the college experience and actively network. While I was in school, I focused so intently on academics, that I allowed my social inclinations to be stifled. I'd advise my high school self to manage my time more effectively, and accurately balance my schedule. Specifically, I'd suggest to make time to socialize with my peers, to explore the variety of extra-curricular activities, as well as to consider the research opportunities that UD offers. Armed with my undergraduate experiences, I aim to put my recommendations into use during my professional studies as an aspiring Optometrist.

Mackenzie

The advice that I would give to a high school senior is to go through the process of choosing your college based on your own true inner opinions not the opinions of others. You should choose your college based on your inner person and what you know you want in a college. You should also choose the college that will help you the most financially if you need the money. Also, consider the ease or difficulty and the expense of getting home for the holidays etc. Make sure it has the major that you want.

Maria

I had a really tough senior year of high school because I spent most of it stressing and worrying about my impending graduation and transition to college. My advice to my senior self would have been to calm down and enjoy the moment. I was convinced that I was going to hate college, that I was not going to make any friends and that I would be completley alone. That couldn't be farther from the truth. I wish I could tell myself back then that everything was going to work out and that there was nothing to worry about. I should have spent my senior year having fun with my friends and family and not crying fearing that I would never see them again. College is a great experience and a lot of fun, but the semester does end and then you get to come home to your old life again. It is the best of both worlds and nothing to cry over. That would be my advice to myself as a high school senior.

lynesha

I would tell my high school self not to give up and keep going. Do not stress over little things and be careful who you talk to. The only person that you need to listen to is yourself. Do what you want to do, some people will be mad but this is your life not anyone elses. Everything will work out in the end. Always smile and work hard in class and pay attention. Make friends and get phone numbers and emails. College is a great experience and you will make life long friends. The bigger picture is that college degree with your name on it as well as the benefits that go along with it.

Nina

Knowing what I know now, I would tell my high school self that courses in college are nothing like the classes taken in high school. High school is a lot easier. To prepare for the challenges ahead, you need to get a head start in the summer before college. First, by doing research about common study techniques and practicing such techniques. Next, as soon as you approach a problem or feel overwhelmed in school, do not feel embarrassed about asking questions and getting help from the professors. Third, if you are having trouble with time management, contact an academic advisor as soon as possible to get feedback. Fourth, college is amazing and a lot of fun. However, it is very easy to get off track. Keep in mind that you are here to do the best you possibly can and earn a high GPA. Try not to spread yourself too thin by applying to too many extra curricular activities and jobs. Lastly, you are about to embark on the best four years of your life. Cherish every moment and good luck!

Andrew

If we had the convenience of time travel, I think one of the first things that I would do would be to go back and give the high school senior version of me a little advice about college and the real world. All I would need would be enough time to utter the simple three word phrase, “Don’t Be Lazy”. Perhaps the biggest obstacle in college hasn’t been the calculus formulas, or the organic chemistry reactions, but simply fighting the desire to procrastinate and not study. Laziness and overconfidence made my freshman year of college more difficult than it should have been. I was leaking with overconfidence and a feeling of mental superiority based on how well I had done in high school without putting forth the effort. I was soon unprepared for the necessity of studying, and I struggled to come to terms with the amount of work that college would entail. I could’ve saved myself a lot of time and trouble if I simply buckled down in the beginning and developed an appropriate work ethic. While my sophomore year has been a different story, I should’ve stopped being lazy in the very beginning.

Corrin

I would tell myself not to let the counselors discourage you from applying to the colleges of your choice, and not to sign up with vocational rehabilitation no matter how much they make you feel pressured.

Rebekah

Prepare to die. Do not worry; you are not going to stop breathing. I mean that the girl inside: your habits, characteristics, relationships and values. She dies in college and another person replaces her. Do not fight death. Prepare for it by embracing the new girl as she comes, but guarding enough of yourself that the new girl will who you want.Understand that you cannot make college like high school. You will not always eat familiar foods, talk to old friends every day, or maintain in all your regular activities. Do not be too sad. College overflows with opportunities to create new patterns. So explore. Eat new foods, build new friendships, and participate in untried activities. Welcome a new self.Be careful, though, not to let every bit of the old girl die. Guard your values. Know what your standards are and why you hold these standards. Be ready to defend them, because they will be challenged. When you can make this defense, you can die without losing everything. You are then prepared to die.

Sara

"Work hard to play hard." If i could go back in time and talk to myself as a senior in high school, I would make sure I understand this quote. As a senior in college, I have seen many students underestimate the rigor of college courses and misunderstand the ultimate purpose of attending a university. Many students forget that the main purpose of college is to get an education in a field that we are passionate about spending the rest of our lives in. Often times, students attending a university have never been solely responsible for their success and having the freedom of "no supervision" ultimately leads to failure. This being said, college is a time to find lifelong friends. I would encourage myself and any other high school senior to get involved in as many clubs or sports as possible. The time spent in school is finite and should be an experience to live to the fullest.

Amira

If I could go back in time and advice my high school self (Amira), having my knowledge and experience about college, I would make sure to sit Amira down, look straight into her eyes and give her the following advices that would highlight her university experiences for the good. These advices are: never be afraid to try something new or meet new people (they could be the people to help you in the future), never be afraid or embarrassed to seek help when you needed it, never wait until your grades are plummeting to get tutoring help, always attend ALL class, pay close attention and ask questions when you do not understand what you learned, because that might be the most studying you get before an exam, you should never be afraid to visit your professors and advisors during their office hours, never be afraid to try before you gives up, and also just because others are giving up doesn’t mean you should also. And most important of all, always strive to be different and take the path less traveled, because you might just learn something great about herself.

Amanda

Had I the ability to talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself that college is more than just a GPA and work. It is about finding yourself, the right friends who will support you, talking to professors about careers that interest you, and feeling a part of a community. Not only will you learn information critical to your academic trajectory, but you learn about yourself as a part of a system, a community of people who are learning the same things as you. A very important point I would make is that nothing is permanent. One bad grade, one adventurous night out, and one loss of a friendship does not determine your future. It is not the actions and mistakes that we make, rather it is how we fix them and learn from them. Perhaps most important is talking to your family or support system. They may not have been to your college or attended your classes, but they have seen you grow up and know you to your core. Take their advice and never hesitate to call and ask for support. Learn from classes, parents, friends, and more importantly, yourself.

Aimee

Looking back at my high school self I would not make any changes. I started attenting Chandler-Gilbert as a junior in high school which placed me a year ahead in college. Looking back it was a lot of hard work but completely worth it. I'm glad I was able to ease myself into the college experience since people have a hard time with the shock of more responsibility. Looking back at the classes I took, I wish that I would have considered trying to test out of the lower classes I was taking. I believe I could have been placed in a higher level that would have benefited me this year.

Feras

I would focus more on my field of study and make sure I'm ready and decided on what I want to do in the future.

Hannah

I would advise myself to really consider the financial burden of paying for college when choosing a college. I was accepted into in-state schools and I sometimes wish that I chose those schools. Even though Delaware is a better school academically, I wish I would had considered how expensive it is. Apart from finances I would also advise myself to get involved sooner! I was so overwhelmed in the beginning as a Freshman that I kept to myself and only focused on my classses. I wish I would had branched out sooner to extracurricular activities. I am involved now but I wish I would had been involved sooner. Lastly, I would had advised myself to have prepared myself emotionally more for school. I had a diffcult time leaving home and it was tough the first few months. I would tell my high school self to be ready for the amount of work and the huge change that college really is.

Jessie

I would tell myself to prepare to work hard, make friends, and study a lot. When in high school, I didn't have to study much. School has always come pretty easy to me, so in college I didn't really study too hard. I found out the hard way that that wasn't going to work out anymore. So high-school-me needed to know that studying is very important because "just knowing" isn't good enough anymore. Also, I didn't really try too hard at the beginning to make friends and it made the first year pretty hard and lonely. So I would also tell myself to be more social and to join a club or a team. I don't have any regrets of what I've done so far, but if I could do it again I might do things a little differently at the beginning.

Rosemarie

Everyone has an older sibling, friend, mentor, counselor, parent, or even college tour guide that says "I would have loved for someone to tell me this advice while i was in college". After this comes advice like: go to class; study; never procrastinate; get involved; balance work with play; make friends, and so on. But as a freshman year student, I learned that no one could describe what is it to make this transition until you go through it for yourself. For almost all incoming freshmen, this is the first experience you have without your parents, family and 'home' friends to help you. The one piece of advice I would give myself a year ago was don't be afraid to change, it's not always bad (you must change to mature and become a better, well rounded person). Talk to and meet people you wouldn’t typically approach; get involved with activities that you wouldn't normally choose to do; step out of your comfort zone; take classes that interest you not just what is "expected"; learn from your mistakes. College is the best place to improve yourself so jump to it and start!

Joe

When you look at colleges don't get caught up over the small things. The most important thing is the actual academic programs, not school looks like the best place to live for 4 years. No matter where you go you will find friends and enjoy yourself, the important thing will be what your actually getting out of your education. Go somewhere that can give you the tools to succeed later in life, the social aspect will fall into place.

Mary

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, the most important piece of advice relating to academics that I would give would be to earn as many Advanced Placement credits as I could. As a senior, I took AP courses but didn’t realize the value of taking the AP tests and earning the credits. I am majoring in elementary education and my program is very rigid. If I was able to fulfill more of my general education credits with AP classes, then I would be able to explore my interests by taking classes outside of the required curriculum. In addition, I would recommend appreciating time with my family and friends before I leave for school. While meeting new friends at college was exciting, it was also very hard to be apart from my family and old friends in the first few months at Delaware. As a high school senior, I think I took seeing my parents, siblings, and friends each day for granted. If I could go back in time, I would increase the amount and quality of time that I spent with the people who mean the most to me.

Allison

College is all about learning how to balance; don’t be one dimensional. Success does not mean having the highest grades and there is a lot more to having fun than partying. If you become obsessed with either, you will not get the full college experience. Being one dimensional, cuts yourself off from meeting different people, seeing new experiences, and stepping out of your norms. If you obsess over grades, you won’t realize that there really smart people to learn from who might not necessarily get the highest grades. If all you do is party, at the end of college when the party ends, you’ll see that many of your “friends” were only there for the good times, and you’ll have few lasting relationships. Find something you love to do. Joining an organization that you are proud of, will give you new memories with people you become so close with. It will teach you things you can’t learn in the classroom and you’ll find it’s even more fun and rewarding than partying. Don’t miss out on opportunities to meet interesting people and discover what really makes you happy.

Kerry

Be a sponge. The most important parts of education are not about the most stressful classes you can handle at once or the number/letter grades you accumulate. Education is more importantly about the wealth and extent of knowledge you soak up and retain. It does no good to cram facts just to forget them after a test. Instead, redirect your efforts to really understanding your instructors and peers. They can teach you lessons and provide advice without you realizing it. Focus on everything they may tell you, do not assume their information is irrelevant; it may come in handy later down the road. During your education, you are shaping who you will become, which will determine you career path and lifetime goals. Your instructors and advisors are trying to pull the "real you" out of you, the "you" you might not even know yet. Allowing yourself to be open to all kinds of experiences and advice will give you options to shape your own thoughts. It frees yourself to view life through multiple perspectives, giving you a more rounded overview of your experiences and lessons learned. Be a sponge, soak in everything; don't keep yourself sheltered.

Chad

Don't go to college it's not worth it.

Eric

I went to a Newsweek Top 100 high school and I was perfectly prepared for college. My advice would be to work on study techniques and stress management before I come.

Sarah

Do not waste time on excessive partying, if you want to make a higher salary per year and hold a position in a field you have dreamed of being in, the time for hard work is NOW here in college. You have the rest of your life to do the rest.

shanell

The advise that i would give to myself is to attend college right after graduation because it is so much easier to focus & concentrate then waiting some time & forgetting what you know.

Neraliz

As a high school senior, I would tell myself that when you are in college, you have to make your own decisions and decide what you want to do with your life. Big decisions must be made and many will determine the decisions you make in the future. College is no where near the same as high school and you cannot get by doing just the minimum. When you are in college, you must be focus and determined; there is no time for procrastination. College is the starting point where you realize that you are on your own, and you begin to get a sense of where you stand in the real world. When choosing a college, you have to look at all it has to offer and if they have the resources and support you need. College is where you form friendships that will last a life, as well as where you will find a potential partner you will share the rest of your life with; so make sure you are making the right decision.

Rebecca

I believe i was not prepared for college and all that it required from an eighteen year old. Educational advice would be expect at least three full days before a difficult test to start studying. Highschool tests are a joke compared to college exams. Also, inevitably, a week will occur where there will be three or more exams , projects or papers due. In this case, you must know what class is the most important to succeed in and put the most effort into, even if that means putting less time in another class. You must always put the classes for you major first, since they count for the most credit and are weighted more than electives and other classes. Definitely join a sorority, it is very important to have time for social activities in order to keep mental stability and it will add to your happiness. Decide on your future career as early as possible. This will give you time to plan and get the experience you need to be considered competive for the graduate school or job of your choice. The proper experience includes; join the right clubs , take the proper additional classes , and acquire an internship.

Natalie

Being set on a specific major is great but it can also be troublesome. Make sure that the school you apply to not only has your major but that your major has been at that college for a while. Being someone that had terrible advisement my first 2 years of college, I know that it can set you back from graduating on time. You should try to intern where you want to work so you know just how badyly you want to do your job. It is not uncommon to change majors during or after your freshman year. Go into your classes knowing that college is a lot more difficult than high school and that you should see your workload before engaging in extra activities or picking the amount of hours you're working, however once you have everything worked out joining activities is a great way to meet new people that may even be in classes with you. Lastly, don't be afraid to go a little outside your comfort zone. Students I know that went to large colleges or ones far away are enjoying it the most.

Elizabeth

I would tell myself to be patient and realize that everyone was feeling the same way that I felt. My first two weeks of school I was miserable because I missed my friends and home; I was eager to leave. However, once I got to talking to other students, I realized that we all had the same feelings and we bonded over it and became friends. Additionally, I would tell myself how important time management truly is to succeeding in college. It took my a couple of years to get the balance of getting good grades in classes and still managing to have a social life. I wish I had gotten a handle on it earlier on, so that I could have been less stressed. If you can manage your time and really focus on what needs to get done you can relax and enjoy college life a lot more.

Laura

I would start out with a hello and a handshake - it would be pretty thrilling to meet my past self! But we would have much to discuss. I would start by telling myself not to be afraid. The whole application process is stressful and scary, but it doesn't have to be. In the end, if a college rejects you, you probably aren't right for it - trust in their judgment. The college that feels natural to you is the right one to choose. I would tell myself not to be discouraged if I felt lonely in the beginning - this is a huge university, and there are plenty of friends to be had, but they are also harder to find in the crowd. I wish someone had told me all this when I was applying for school. Lastly, I would say to myself, "spend the $80 for your Brown application on shoes instead - you don't get accepted!"

Rebecca

Hello, Past Me, it's Future You. I need to tell you a few things about applying to your colleges. Fight your parents to apply to more than two colleges and don't apply anywhere for Theatre; only apply for academic subjects. You won't get into Syracuse. Tell your parents you don't want to be a Three Language Major, study what you want to study; declare History and Creative Writing. You will enjoy taking Ancient Greek and Latin far more than you enjoyed taking French and Japanese. Then, you will save yourself the headache of changing majors when your parents kick you out of your house and not have to be in school an extra year because you studied what THEY wanted and not what YOU wanted. Two years of your life will be saved, and you will most likely graduate on time with enough money to get an apartment and a job offer. You think your passion is foreign languages, but you only think that because it's what your parents told you; a Three Language Major is ludicrous. Don't do it. Do what you love - that's the only way you can truly be happy.

Marissa

I have gotten more out of the year and a half that I have been at the University of Delaware than I ever would have imagined. In high school, I did not want to go to the University of Delaware because it is only five minutes from my house. I chose the University of Delaware because I knew that financially it would be the best decision to stay in-state and in my opinion, it is the best school in Delaware. Now, I don't regret my decision at all. I love everything at UD like the campus life, dining halls, and dorms. Living on campus, I am seperated from home but I can still see my family easily. Attending the University of Delaware has been valuable because I have met a lot of people that I now consider to be my best friends. I know I have already made a lot of friendships that will be life long. I also have learned things on a higher level than I ever did in high school which I know will be very helpful in the future. My experiences at UD are helping me transition into being a responsible adult.

Olivia

I have learned that you should always keep and open mind in everything that you do. The people that you meet in college will definitely be there for you throughout your four years there and they are who you will leaven back on. It's important to surround yourselves with people who have the same goals as you do so that you can help to inspire and motivate each other. College life is what you make of it and if you go into it with the mindset that you will do well and have a succesful outcome, then you will. I've only been at Delaware for a year and half, but I know that it was the right choice to attend here and that it will help me to become an even better student and a better help to others everywhere.