University of Florida Top Questions

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

Jessica

The only thing that I would tell myself would simply be: your best friend may not always be the best roomate for you. I learned and matured so much my first semester at the Univeristy of Florida, unfortunately the circumstances were far from pleasant. I would tell myself to live in a dorm on campus my first year and to skip living with my best friend at the time. Needless to say, it was one of the most terrible experiences I have ever had to live through, and I lost a very important person in my life because of it. I give this advice to others in hopes that they won't make the same mistake that I made. I have seen many friendships break because of a silly living arrangement, and I always tell others "you may be compatible, but that doens't necessarily mean that you can live with each other." It's a shame, and although I did learn a lot from it, I feel that it was premature and unnecessary at that point in my life. Other than that, transitioning into college was smooth and I would reassure myself that everything would work out just fine.

Jordan

No high school kid knows what college will be like. I thought that college was a magical place in which I would find myself, have fun and still have time to get straight A's. This idea quickly changed when I entered school this year. School was not this place that made me perfect but rather I had to work and it was hard. My high school self hade been well....lazy but I'd always managed to get the A's that would get me into university. I have to study now...STUDY! and my high school self had to get used to this concept. I had to learn how to use notecards and pens and papers and I had to use textbooks. So my advice to myself would be simple, learn how to employ all the study devices people have been trying to instill in you for years. University is new and it is exciting but it is hard and sometimes you just need to actually work, however lazy you feel (that's what the weekend is for).

Eric

Going back in time, I would tell myself to overcome the laziness that every senior in high school suffers from. Applying myself in my senior year would have enormously helped in my freshmen year in college. A number of times I have tried to understand material in college that I know was covered in my high school classes and have become discouraged at my ignorance in my senior year. My senior year I could not stand the fact that I was not out of the school and, as such, my understanding of my classes faltered. Specifically, my understanding of the concepts of my physics class fell through the cracks, and, while I still earned an ?A?, it came at the price of forgetting almost all of the material. Last semester, I found myself stumbling around, trying to find my way through the thick forest that was my freshmen physics class. I realized that if I had just overcome my senior laziness I would have seen the path that was just beneath the brush. I failed to look to the future and plan accordingly.

Jessica

I would tell myslef to relax and enjoy high school. I think I was too worried in high shcool and now that I'm in college I realize that I missed growing up. You have so many responsibilities when you live away from home and you have to become your own rule book. A little fun would not kill a high school student, but help them to prepare for the responsibilities of college.

Alexandra

Assuming I could travel back to the spring of 2008 , I would have a difficult time locating myself to pass along any advice. That semester was for me a fulgurous blur of college applications, my rigorous academic schedule, my six or seven clubs, and graduation parties. I never stopped, rarely slept, and spent all the free time I did amass worrying about "The College Transition." If I could manage to pin myself down for an afternoon, I would give myself this hardly unheard of advice: stop worrying so much, and just do your thing. I was always a natural at getting involved, why should that be any harder in college? Embrace the opportunity to take your education and future into your hands, don't fear it. The educational experience I've had has everything to do with my efforts in asking my professors and classmates for help in my classes, exploring new academic interests, and finding a way to get involved with my school. Now that I'm five semesters in, I've got the system down; I only wish I hadn't spent the first two or three letting my fears and insecurities get in the way.

Andy

Looking back, I would give myself these words of wisdom. First of all, time is of the upmost value, every minute counts. Due to the demands in college, it is important to study on the bus, in the doctor's office, and during any "free time". Administer your hours of study carefully, so you can have time to "play". It is just as important to have fun as it is to work hard studying. Second of all, friends are more than just people to hang out with. They become study partners, tutors, and a vital support network; choose them wisely. Develop strong study groups and interpersonal relationships that will help you achieve your goals. Lastly, perseverance is the key to success. No matter how difficult a class may seem or how boring a professor might be, the final outcome is well worth the torture. What is four years of your life in college versus the rest of your life feeling miserable about not having achieved your dream. College is for the brave, the strong, and the fighter. Regardless of your smarts your effort will pay off in the end.

Nicole

Dear Self, While college is meant to be the tool for preparing you for your future ambitions and dreams, do not forget to relax and enjoy your time there. The transition can be an easy one if you make it that way. It is all about what you tell yourself. Sure the first semester may be daunting; however, do not let this dictate the way you perceive the next four years to be. College is also meant to be fun. The secret is time management my friend. Finding the right balance between "study-time" and "friend-time" is like discovering the recipe to a great college experience. Be confident in yourself and your work. Listen to criticisms, and don't take it personally--they are preparing you for the real world. Stay positive about your future--everything will fall into place, and what's meant to be will be. Everybody is scared at first, verbalized or not, so you are not alone. Study hard and try your best, but also don't forget to have fun. Cherish these years and they will be the time of your life!

Stephanie

Friendship, experience, and knowledge are what I've gotten out of my college experience. Originally being a shy person, college has taught me that speaking out to a stranger can lead to great friendships. Joining a club or a team encourages this friendship and helps diminish the shyness. Some of my best friends and people who will be with me throughout my entire life I've met in college. Going to class and learning from professors has encouraged me to reach out to other professionals, such as orthopedic surgeons, to enhance the learning experience. Taking the learning out of the classroom and into the real world has been an incredibly valuble experience. The primary reason people attend college is to gain knowledge. To become ready to have a real career someday. Throughout my college experience I've gained knowledge not just from textbooks about particular studies, but about myself as well. I wouldn't change my college experience for anything. It has taught me about myself, friendship, and life, which are the most valuble lessons in life.

Lorraine

When I was in high school, I thought that college major equals chosen career field. This is a misconception. I wish I would have known that prior to entering college because sometimes I focused on majoring in something that is very practical yet had a strong interested in philosophy and other liberal arts. I did not realize that there were many career paths for philosophy majors even if the career was not identical to my major, because once I graduate, I will have a number of skills that are adaptable to several work places. I would also encourage myself to be involved in a few student-run organizations and clubs, with a focus on gaining leadership experience. This way, whoever my future employer is, they will know that I have number of pther skills that fall under leadership: organization, communication, cooperation, etc. Plus, campus involvement can lead to great friendships and connections. I am glad I learned these tips before I graduated, but I wish that I would have known them prior to college so that I could get the full college experience.

Stephanie

Everyone's dream is to time travel, but does it contradict to the belief of never living with regrets? I believe that college is a transitional phase in one's life. The chance to live on one's own teaches independence, and the need to study for exams while balancing finances teaches responsibility. Although being an age from 18-21 is barely considered an adult, college experiences allows one to mature from the peer pressured environment of highschool. No, i do not have regrets, however i would go back in time and give myself advice. I would explain that education and good studying skills isn't just overly lectured qualities to have, but rather they are neccessities to succeed in college. I would explain that possibilities in life are endless with the value of education, especially when you couple it with something you love. Education isn't something to take advantage of, but a privledged experience, especially since a highschool student doesnt have to pay for classes/books! I would tell myself to take a deep breath and know that life will become harder on my own, but the lord never gives someone something they can't handle.

Zachary

As a college freshman in his second semester at the University of Florida, I could give a lot of advice to myself in the past. I might try to convince my senior version to develop study habits. I might tell him that I should set study times that I must follow, and not deviate from them unless circumstances are critical. Maybe I could say that he should never miss a class, regardless of how tired he is, or if he feels a little sick. Even if class starts in five minutes, he should still go and just be late. I could tell him to be more aggressive when looking for a job, and to be more dedicated when he gains the opportunity to work. I could tell him all of this, trying to make his life different than what I went through by using specific events. However, I can sum everything up into something simple. The thing I would tell him is this: live to the fullest, do everything you can to be happy, accomplish every task you are given, and do not regret a single action. Life is too short, so live it right the first time.

Jonathan

Decide early and quickly which career path you definitely want to go down. Too many students drift around intoxicated by the plethora of vaguely interesting course titles. Remain focused or else you will end up locked in to a major with too many credits to switch to another one. READ what is assigned, most courses outside of science classes are easily passed by simply doing the assigned readings on time. This is because most students do not read and so the professors are forced to teach the material as if no one has encountered it before. Get a job with tips and get it fast: pizza delivery, waiting, and bartending are the ideal jobs for achieving financal freedom in minimal time and they happen to be in very high demand in college towns. Skip out on binge drinking: party whe you want but avoid heavy drinking since it is the number one cause of all student problems e.g. pregnancy, rape, failing grades, fights, death, car wrecks, injuries, losing security deposits, robbery, arrests, destroyed relationships, etc. If you are going to be designated driver get paid. FOCUS ON LEARNING NOT ON GRADES too many 4.0s with no brains.

Kathleen

Now at 25 pursuing a second bachelor's degree, I would say to my young, more fit 18-year-old self just six words: "Don't let time pass you by." Even at 18 I think I would've understood, but in case I caught myself on a slow day, I'd elaborate with the following: "Kathleen, it goes by in a blink. Take more pictures, take more chances. Keep your arms and eyes open to all, and soak up every stream of opportunity that comes your way. Don't worry, you won't drink too much, but you know what? Drink even less. There's too much to discover! If you see an activity that looks even remotely interesting- go for it! When else in your life will you have the chance to attend unlimited numbers of free lectures, seminars, performances, exhibits and so on? Umm, don't park out of your assigned lot. They will give you a ticket, and $20 is way too much to pay for a quicker walk." "And one more thing, naive girl. Save your money! Just because you have it doesn't mean you need to spend it. Save now, stress less later!"

Breanna

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would encourage myself to gain study habits. Although I didnt have to study in high school, if I would have enforced a routine of at least looking over material that I learned at a certain time of the day, I would have excellent study habits now. Study habits are important in college because the material is in depth you have to truly understand versus just retaining information. My advice to myself would be to really try to understand the material which may include outside research rather than just remembering what I need to know. I would also advice myself to gain orgainization and time management. In college every moment is valuable. You can be spending time with a friend, getting a head in class or practicing for a show that you have coming up for a organization you're in. In high school I took alot of naps instead of taking the time to get more acquaintant with my homework as mentioned above and I missed out on opportunities to join clubs because I was not organized in planning my days.

Matthew

If i could go back in time i would probaly tell myself how to enjoy the little things alot more. College is the transition between the free life of highschool and the real world. Its the time that you discover your self and what you can be. In high school you stress out for all the wrong reasons. Its the last time in your life you can really on people to push you along. Being pushed to excel to even greater heights isnt a curse its a blessing. Yes you might be working harder then those around you but it will help you in a big way later in life. With all that said though i would have to say the most important thing i could tell my self is that at the end of the day it doesnt matter. To much of life is spend on stressing about this or that when really there not important enough to pass on to the next day. Life is a linear path that always goes forward, dont let the weight of yesterday drag you down.

Challie

Applying to college can be an exciting and intimidating time for a high school senior. If I could go back and give myself advice knowing what I know now about college, I would suggest three things to myself. First, I would advise applying for more scholarships. It never hurts to make the effort to recieve some of the free aid that so many organizations are offering, and it helps fund all expenses, from books, to living, to studying abroad. Second, I would suggest getting involved in more activities, and not being fearful of not having enough time for school work. Being involved on campus helps with academic time management skills and it provides a way to meet new people and make new friends, which is essential to adjusting to a new town and college campus. Finally, I would tell myself that it's okay to be undecided on my major in college for a little while. An undergraduate degree is not necessarily the determining factor of what I will use my education for in the future. I would remind myself that college is a time to grow, have new experiences, and discover the person I am supposed to become.

Nicole

As a big fan of the arts and a self-proclaimed "theatre geek," I had a small, close-knit groups of friends in high school who were all involved in my drama troupe with me. I did not become truly close with these off-the-wall, quirky people until I had a falling out with my initial group of friends- who would have been stereotyped as the "popular kids". My falling out with these people caused me to shun mainstream thoughts, delve into theatre, and change completely. While this transformation helped me discover who I was in high school, it caused me to have an attitude towards those who reminded me of my former narrow-minded companions. If I could go back in time and give myself advice to help me in college, it would be to be more open-minded towards everyone I meet. I would tell myself that everyone is special and everyone deserves a chance to be known. I would tell myself that I could not possibly know who someone is just because of his or her apparel, friends, or community affiliations. Thankfully college taught me these things and it is better learned late than never.

Kandice

Take advatange of all the resources that college has to offer. The social life may have been a priority in high school but will have to take the back seat for college life. Do not get stuck the same routine of going to class, then heading back to your dorm for studying, with the occasional surfacing in the cafeteria for meals. Take the time to make new friends and be invlovled in campus activities. It will help give you break from all the school work and if you are far from home it may help take your mind off being home sick. Remember just because you declared a major for college application does not mean you are bound by contract for the rest of your life in that profession. Take a few moments to think of what you ulitimately want out of life and what you are wiling to sacrifice or contribute to attain that goal. Make sure the decisions that you are making are ones the you are pleased with. Not just your family's ideal of what you should make you happy. Have fun! High school may have ended but life has just begun.

Eric

If I could have known one thing in high school about the University of Florida, I would have liked to know how key it was to get involved on campus. While I have a few leadership positions including Vice chair of College Republicans, I feel like I could have done a lot more with this knowledge. Now it is a little too late to get involved in my freshman year and I feel like I may have wasted too much time. Having known this as a high school senior, I could have gotten more involved in high school, so I could have put more on my resume in college. Though guidance counselors say that you get a clean slate once you get in to college, it isn't true, at least not from other students' perspectives. This is important because students run the organizations in college and are therefore more influential. Employers and graduate schools look at a student's involvement, and if you didn't do enough in high school that can cause you to be less involved in college. Basically, I would have told myself how important high school involvement really is to the rest of my life.

Mackenzie

Go to class Meet your professors Work hard

Brianna

If I could go back and talk to myself as a senior, I would stress the importance of getting involved, and staying positive throughout the transition process. I may not always get accepted to every club and organization I want to be in, but I have learned from these rejections, and in doing so have found amazing oppurtunities in other organizations. To remain confident in myself no matter the path I am on is so important, and I would want to give myself a heads up. I would also advise myself to be open to new relationships, with so many people at this university, giving everyone a equal oppurtunity to be a new friend/aquaintance will allow me to learn more about myself and grow. The last piece of advice I would give is to remember why I am here, academics come first, and even though it seems like you have time, a lot can happen to alter studying, and remember to keep academics in mind.

Rudman

Going back in time to talk to myself would be a momentus occassion. I would make sure that I tell myself to shoot for the stars. Even if I'm taking a class on how to be me (Rudman), that I should never be so prideful that I don't ask anyone for the help I need. Here the school is giving me resources and opportunities that no one in their right mind would pass up. I know things are going to get rough because believe it or not, life is, but that's only another reason to keep on reaching for the stars. All of the studying taking place instead of partying will pay off in due time. When that time comes, I'll glow brighter than the Sun. Choose your friends wisely, and never take anything for granted because it can all disappear in a blink of an eye. Go after any money the government is willing to appropriate. Just make sure you use it responsibly. Have fun when you can, but never too wild. And one day you'll have the dream job of your life and the dream girl. Go hard or go home.

Chelsea

I know things are stressful right now, and you've got a whole lot to worry about. Which schools are you applying to? When are you going to right those essays and fill out those applications? Should you take the SAT one more time? Don't forget transcripts! Yes, yes, it's all a bit much on top of the course work you already have to deal with. However, once all that is said and done you have to make the ever important decision between the schools that accepted you. Which is the right fit for you? How will you know if you really belong there? If I could give you some advice, I would tell you to expect the unexpected. For better or for worse, college life is exactly what you make of it. You'll be happy to hear that the level of social pressure will be much lower than in high school and you'll meet some amazing people who like you as you are. The important thing is to let it happen. Don't let preconcieved notions or fears stop you from really discovering yourself.

Jesse

I would tell myself not to worry or be nervous about an experience that every human being should be privileged to have in their lifetimes. Going to college truly broadens one's ability to think for yourself, to meet people from varied backgrounds and to share unique experiences with others. There is probably no other time in life that you have the opportunity to learn everything you can and try out different ideas without being restricted by family or financial responsibilities. I would tell myself to work hard, but also that it is ok to enjoy life's journey.

Laura

Don't take out more loans than you have to, since you will be paying them off for the REST OF YOUR LIFE! Pay attention at orientation. Make friends with someone who has a car as soon as you get to school. Try to eat real meals instead of take out and junk food. Go to bed at a decent time - 4pm is way too late. Don't wait to get a job until Spring - all the good ones will be gone by then. Don't be shy - everyone else is new to college as well. Take more pictures! Don't skip classes - it'll only hurt you in the end. Apply for more scholarships. Don't drop a class just because you are afraid you might get a B. Read the flyers on bulletin boards - some of the best classes, clubs, and events are hidden in that sea of paper. Trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to do your own thing. Live on campus. Get a good bike lock. Don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it. Call home more often. Trust your instincts, and don't be afraid to do your own thing.

Olivia

I most suggest preparing yourself as soon as possible. Enjoy your senior year to the fullest but try not to lose focus about your future. Stay on top of deadlines to reduce your stress. It is easier to find scholarships as a senior preparing to go to college than to scrape to find scholarships later on. Be actively looking! It's also easier to maintain your knowledge by pushing yourself in your senior course work. The academic transition is softened by keeping your skills sharp. Your senior year can be an awesome time to learn how to balance schoolwork and fun. In college there is a multitude of opportunities to get involved and meet others, so be open minded! In high school it's easy to be involved in every club and on every teams but in college it's impossible for you to be involved in everything; you will stretch yourself too thin, not truely enjoy your activities, and you will run the risk of putting academics after fun. Explore your options to find what you are passionate about and devote yourself to those things. College can be the best years of your life if you make them it.

Melissa

I would tell myself that the transition is not as bad as I thought it was going to be. While I worried that I would miss my family and old friends tremendously, I have been able to balance school and keeping up with all of them on a daily basis. I would also tell myself that it is going to be very easy to make new friends and meet new people and to be prepared for all of the diversity found in the world of college. Finally, I would tell myself to make sure to get involved in college and to put myself out there to meet new people and be open to new things.

Nikki

Staying in the dorms on campus may not seem like the most favorable thing because of shared space issues, but it really does have a big impact on helping you fit into the campus community. Freshmen who stay oncampus tend to be more involved in student organizations and it helps them to make friends and ease into the college lifestyle more smoothly. Always remember your studies. Student organizations are fun and help you make great friends, but never forget that you are attending university for an education first and foremost. Never let your social life dominate your schedule. In the same respect, don't immerse yourself so completely in your schoolwork that you find yourself hardly going out with friends. Always strike a balance in all you do, it'll make you feel much better overall.

Olin

If I could go back in time, to talk to myself as a senior in high school, I would encourage my past self to not underestimate himself. Knowing what I know now, I know I'm cabable of great perseverance. How I can take a stormy day and appretiate the sound of rain on my window. I would tell the younger version of me that this trait is not to be undermined or wasted. That this trait will be tested before long, and that his success depends on his perseverance, not the other way around. I would tell him that his determination is his greatest strength and to never let the storms wash it away.

Fabrice

I would tell myself to make sure I get involved and active in the services that are offered to freshman and definitely take the initiative to stay on top of classes as well as seeking out academic related experiences that would enhance my overall college experience. I would definitely encourage myself to get out of my comfort zone and seek out things that I never would have imagined doing. Determination would be another point I would drill into my head to ensure that I was giving my best in ALL of my classes and not allowing the capacity of my mind to learn and formulate new ideas go to waste. Thankfully so, I've been able to do these things but only until recently and looking back had I been on this path in the beginning of my college days my overall experience would've been even more amazing.

Alexis

As a senior I could never have imagined my college experience being what it is now. Originally I had no idea where I wanted to go, but I knew what I wanted in a school. If I could go back in time, I would tell myself not to worry because people will accept you and like you for who you are. There are so many different groups on campus that it is practically impossible not to find at least one group with which you mesh well. I have met so many people via my sorority, my classes, volunteering at Shands, joining a dance studio, and even joining ASDA, a pre-dental club that greatly holds my interest. The combination of these groups has kept me grounded, helped me maintain my focus, and also helped me to meet people like myself, as well as friends I will have forever. I would also tell myself to have fun and enjoy these four years. I'm almost halfway through my college experience and I feel like I have so much left to do! Time flies and it's so important to enjoy these last few years while learning some extremely important life lessons.

Alexander

Looking back at me senior year of high school, I wish i could go back and tell myself just one thing: start studying and start some good study habits. Looking back, studying in high school was a foreign concept. It just was something that never needed to be done. But upon entering a university environment, I wish I had learned to study in high school instead of trying to learn to take time and focus all on the fly. My first semester was spent trying to learn good study habits instead of enjoying the college experience. Had I had good study habits already it would have been easier to make a smooth transition into college, but instead I was forced to not only learn college level material, but learn how to do so.

Caroline

Don't doubt yourself. You'll figure out what you want along the way.

Flor

If I could go back in time and advise myself about what its really like to be in college I'd do it in a heart beat. High school does not prepare you enough for the transition of being a highschool senior to a college freshman. You must learn to THINK outside the box, act like an adult, make mature decisions, study, don't waste your time, dont spend your money. One may feel overwhelmed, and stress out about money. You must learn to save every penny or you wont be able to pay for your classes never the less the books one must buy for the courses EACH semester. The professors aren't as patient as a high school teacher, you MUST turn in everything on time. The way they grade is yen times harder than your high school teacher. The professor wont help you, so learn to think outside the box; explore your inner mind. You will have no time to be fooling around, you must behave like an adult. That means sacrifising your "fun" time for studying. Don't make your decisions based on what people say, or people do, make a decision based on YOU.

Megan

Looking back on my Senior year of High School only one thing comes to mind, AP classes. I took five AP courses during my junior and senior year and wish now that I had taken more. Getting credit for AP courses helped me get one semester of college out of the way. If I had taken more of the AP courses offered by my school I could easily be a college junior by this time. AP classes were way easier than college classes so taking them at a High School would have benefited be tremendously. Some AP classes even offer credit for two classes with a certain score. I loved my High School experience and getting into my first choice school was an added bonus, but taking more AP courses during High School would have eased me into college more.

Scott

If I were to go back and talk to myself, I would discuss two topics: social and academic. I would remind myself to keep some old friends close. While college is partially about new experiences, it never hurts to have some old friends as well. One this allows for some variety in the friends that you have and also provides for sociable possibilities during breaks and networking down the line. This is one thing I learned the hard way, as the multitude of friends I made while in college were ones who did not live in the same area I was from, which made some breaks less relaxing and entertaining then they could have been. However, the time in college with new friends is something special and illuminating. On the more serious concept of academics, I would have taught myself a very important lesson. In high school, it is very easy to just go to class, never study, and still get straight As. In college, this is not exactly a given. From the beginning, one must be willing to put in extra time, comparatively, towards studying. While this lesson can be learned, doing this from the beginning is less stressful.

Desiree

Given the opportunity to go back in time and tell my High School self about the transition into college, I would be hesitant to say anything at all. Not that my transition was smooth, far from it. It was filled with sleepless nights, soul crushing credit card debt, car wrecks not to mention, heartaches, depression and loss. However, it was also when I learned how to deal with these things on my own. I was rewarded with inspiration, enlightenment and unconditional love. The choices I made that first year led me on the adventure that would become my life. They got me where I am today. Good or bad they were mine. Face to face with my 17 year old self, I would offer no words of wisdom (I wouldn't have listened to them at 17 anyway) but perhaps I would offer up a sincere and heartfelt, "thank you."

Jodi

After spending a semester experiencing college life, I would tell my high school self to be outgoing and open to trying new things and meeting new people. College life provides so many opportunities for fun and self discovery and it is important to go out and find it because it will not necessarily come to you. So join a club or organization you can become involved in and passionate about. Also, college life so much less structured than high school so it is important to schedule your time wisely. In this scheduling, it is important to maintain a good balance between the amount of time spent on academics and on other things you enjoy. The transition between college life and high school life can be smooth if you have self discipline, time management, and something you are passionate about getting involved in.

Brinkley

As a high school senior I studied the life of a University of Florida student, therefore I knew what to expect once I started school. Knowing what I know now about college life the advice I would give to my high school self is to write for scholarships until my hands fall off. It's great to be a Florida Gator but financially it can be devastating.

Vonecia

Be open to every opportunity that arrives. You make think that something is not worth trying for until you've seen what you missed. I had the opportunity to be a Florida Cicerone but I decided not to apply because I was afraid that I wasn't going to get the position. However, my close friends applied and they were accepted. They were in the same boat as I was but they still gave an effort. Success is giving effort. Don't let anything pass you by because you never know what you are capable of until you do it. Even if a task seems impossible, go for it. Future employers love to see effort. You will gain success with effort.

John

If I could go back in time, there are a number of things I would tell myself. First off, college is not significantly harder than any other educational level. At every grade you are learning new material, just like everyone else, so if you work hard you always can be competitive and at the top of the class, so don't be nervous. Secondly I'd tell myself to be prepared for the scheduling differences between high school and college. Instead of having class all through the day there are typically several hours between classes, or only a couple classes a day. Be sure to stay focused and treat your day as a work day so that you don't fall behind. Thirdly, I'd tell myself to make sure I request people I know as roommates. The worst thing possible is to get stuck in a triple with a guy you don't know who smells really, really bad. Fourth, get involved on campus the very first week. It makes the transition so much easier when you know people and have friends. Last, look for a job. College life is expensive, and you'll appreciate the extra money.

Kelly

If I were to go back in time and give my high school senior-self advice, I would tell myself to not stress so much about getting into college. I would also tell myself not to worry, because I have been raised and trained to succeed in anything I will do in life. I would tell myself to prepare for the most fun I will ever have in my life, and I would also tell myself to work harder than I ever have. College is really fun and different and new, but I have had a blast and I feel as though I have been pointed in the right direction by University of Florida staff and faculty.

Christian

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to develop better study habits. Studying in college is much different from studying in high school. There is no homework for most classes and it is difficult to track your progress unless you?re constantly self-reviewing your knowledge of information you have learned. I loved study groups in high school and those work wonders in college. I would tell myself to be ready to be open, honest, and upfront about my feelings and concerns with those that I?m living with. Conflict resolution is an absolutely necessity when you?re living in such close quarters with so many people. Whether you are the one with the problem or you're trying to be the mediator, it is incredibly important to be able to diplomatically solve problems. Most importantly, I would tell myself to not be afraid to get involved, to talk to people, and to be social. Nobody is going to hold your hand in college and introduce you to people; you have to do that for yourself. You just have to dive right in!

Bridgette

I would tell myself to start saving money earlier, as well as start looking for jobs while still living at home. Having a good credit score, money saved up, and respectable resume when beginning to live on your own allows for a less stressful transition into the part-time work force (which pays for your classes). I would also advise myself to not worry about what other people think, that all college freshman are trying to fit into a quota that is nonexistant, and that you are cool if you are confident. Confidence, self respect, and self descipline are all necessary to survive college.

Juan

If it were possible to travel back in time and advise myself as a senior in high school, I would provide my former self with several fundamental criteria that I have come to realize as a college student. Firstly, I would tell myself to join as many leadership positions as possible in order to develop a strong work ethic, which is crucial in a college environment. Secondly, I would tell myself to enroll in as many advance placement classes as possible in order to prove to universities that I am willing to challenge myself in all academia. Lastly, and perhaps the most essential point, I would tell myself to apply to all scholarships and monetary awards as possible. This is in order to attend school without the burden of knowing that this is costing my family a fortune. A huge aid to the college student is to be able to study with nothing else on their mind. Financial peace will ultimately lead to more efficient studying and a more enjoyable college career.

Cindy

If I could head back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior here is what I would say: ?Trust your instincts; they will prove more valuable than most other guides. You know more than you think, so believe in yourself. Do not let fear hinder your choices; you will be fine. Try again, even if at first you fail. Try again, especially if at first you fail. Follow through; there are few things as painful down the road as regret due to unfinished opportunities. It is okay to change your mind, but give everything and everyone the chance it or they deserve. Forgive yourself and find joy daily. Trust others to a fault; it will bring you more than it will cost. If you are given a leg up, step up; in the end it does not matter for what reasons you have been given the boost and you may not get that boost again. Take some risks; you will be stronger for it. Above all, be kind to the world, help others, and give of yourself without reserve; you will make a difference.?

Sherwin

Hey! You there! Yeah, you. Are you ready for college? Do you know exactly what it entails and the workload you're going to have to face? Well if your answer is no, then you better get ready! College at the University of Florida is a mix of both hard and easy. Yes, campus-life is fun and lots of cool things are always going on. But classes are tough and you'll have it extra hard since you're planning on pursuing an engineering degree. You want to do well though, right? Well listen up. Stay focused and don't get distracted by all of the social events going on in the organizations on campus. Yes, it's fun, and yes, you'll meet lots of potential friends, but ask yourself this: In 5 years, was that night that you spent at a party instead of studying really worth it? Your answer is probably no. What can you do to stay ahead and be prepared to pursue an egineering degree? Keep your GPA up and join clubs that pertain to your major. That's right, by doing those two things you'll be ready and WILL succeed!

Beverly

Go to college right after high school. It's very hard to go back once you wait as long as I have. So take your time to find the one that fits you the best and have fun at the same time.

Kristina

Pick early classes. This way you can shower while the rest of the floor is asleep and do laundry while the majority of the students in the building are just waking up for class. Plus, chances are the professor doesn?t really want to be there that early either, so they will be a little more relaxed about the rules. Don?t forget shower shoes. The dorms have two showers for twelve girls to share and not every girl is as well groomed as you are. Gross, I know, but just be thankful the bathrooms aren?t co-ed! Keep snacks in the room. The dining halls are only open certain hours, and usually those hours don?t coincide with your ?study breaks?. Finally, get involved! Starting in the spring after graduating a year early is tough enough. By then everyone has found a place to fit in. Joining clubs and participating in school-wide activities gives you an opportunity to jump into the experience. You will make friends, you will stay busy, you will have something to tell Mom and Dad when they call EVERY DAY, and you will discover your passion for pastries much sooner than I did.

Cory

If I had the opportunity to go back in time to give myself some advice, it would have to be to relax. The transition into college was one of the scariest times of my life for a number of reasons. First of all, the events leading up to my graduation from high school included the forclosure of my parents' home, due to the hurricanes and the loss of my father's job. Later, my sister's unexpected pregnancy and then the loss of the second, rental home and the end of my father's electrician carreer when the economy dropped beneath our feet, brought in the stress and it felt like the world was upon me. My college funds were drained for food and I felt like there was no hope. I nearly tore my hair out trying to find a way into college. But now I'm here, I have just enough money to get me through school from various scholarships and aid. "So, Cory... You should just relax, I know these are hard times but concentrate on school and know that every little thing is gonna be alright."