University of Florida Top Questions

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

melana

If I could go back and talk to myself as a senior I would tell myself not to stress out too much about which college I would go to. The right college is all a matter of perspective and wherever I end up, I will find myself happy there because I will find people that I can relate to and activities that I am interested in. It's all about making your own niche in any college and appreciating everything it has to offer, not trying to find one that matches you exactly at that moment because college is an experience that will change you, and the "best" college is one that can offer many opportunities for growth.

Christopher

I did well and i'm proud of the decisions i made. Although i wasn't sure at the time, but looking back now i know i made the right choices. I was very anxious as a senior not sure what to expect being an adult, living on my own for the first time and going to college. I was scared, very scared; knowing i would have so much more responsibilities. However i took the guidance from my counselors and was set on the right path. So if i ever had that chance to reassure myself, i would decline. Only because i learned a lesson, a lesson on anxiety and despair that i wouldn't have learned by telling myself things will work out. I used my anxiety to do things i know i needed and would benefit me, like scholarships and the FAFSA. Plus if i new that then, i might not be here in college today just because i would think everything would be fine then procrastinate and not get anything done. Now i know as long as i'm going in the right direction it will get me somewhere positive.

Corey

Don’t take anything for granted. At the University of Florida there is no such thing as an easy a. Some classes are easier than others, but don’t ever assume it will be easy and not study as a result. Also, don’t get overwhelmed at the transition. Those first few weeks on campus were a bit rough as I adjusted to living on my own for the first time in my life. It was extremely hard to motivate myself to do school work, and I struggled establishing a routine. I finally found my niche here at the University, but not until deep into my first semester. My grades suffered on the early exams of the semester, which is something I could’ve prevented if I hadn’t lost myself in the college transition. Finally, I would tell myself to be more persistent than I was before I got on campus. At a University this large, there are opportunities abound for gaining valuable career experience and insight. However, you constantly have to bug those in charge to make your voice stand out in the crowd. If I do, than it is possible to get involved at so many levels.

Regina

As the close of the day nears, I sit quietly and contemplate over the inevitable passing of time. Almost three years have gone by and I am now a busy, anxious, yet content third year in college. However, I always ask myself what could I have done differently? What could I have known as a high school senior that would have made my college life even greater than it is now? The very first thought that comes into mind-as simple as it is- is time management. Practicing time management and conquering this easy, yet crucial skill is the key to success in college. I admire my friends who are able to balance their demanding classes and their rigorous work schedule with a fulfilling and exciting social life. They make sure every minute spent in their schedule is not wasted to unproductive habits such as excessively watching television or following social media. They prioritize their academics, yet open their schedule to their passions. They remain organized, focused and determined to excel in all endeavors. This drive, balanced with the fundamental skill of time management will bring anyone’s college experience to life and guarantee future success beyond college.

Kelsey

As a high school senior, I was so concerned with how every small decision I made would impact the rest of my life, that I didn't do things I loved or take classes I was interested in because I was afraid that they wouldn't appear "impressive" to the colleges I was applying for. Now that I am in college, I realize that participating in things I love or learning things that are interesting are precisely what will advance my path in different endeavors and what will make me a passionate, fulfilled person. This is exactly what I would tell myself as a high school senior: don't be so afraid of life that you forget to live it. So frequently we focus on what we are or will be: a student, a doctor, or a teacher. Yet, these nouns don't say nearly as much about what we are contributing to society as the verbs do: learning, healing, and educating. I would tell myself as a high-school senior to focus on the verbs and to live in the moment, because in the end, it's not what we are, but what we do that changes the world.

Avery

The most important thing to me is family. The best advice I could have given myself was to cherish the moments I had with them my last year of high school. If I could do it again I would spend more quality time with not only those I love but those friends that I am really close to.

Monika

If I was able to go back in time and tell my high school self what I know now, things would have gone different my first semester. I would say to myself that the first semester should be where you set up your study schedule. I'd try to make an easy schedule that allows for free time and homework time. And the biggest thing I would tell myself is to get an apartment. There is nothing better than having your own room, bathroom and kitchen.

Matt

"Don't be afraid. I know it's a simple sentence and sounds rather cliche but looking back there is nothing I regret more than being afriad. Going from high school to college is scary step toward growing up. I also know how shy you when meeting new people and trying new things. Yes, its normal to be afraid, or at least hesistant, about these things but I'm here to tell you have no reason to be. Had someone told me this when I was graduating I would not have the regrets I do today. It took me a year, but I finally realized there was nothing to be afraid of and have made mant great friends and memories. So I'm here to tell you, for our sake, go out of your comfort zone and do something you would never imagine yourself doing. College has taught me to never say never and try things because this is your last real oppurtunity to enjoy life to the fullest. So don't be afraid of leaving home, you'll get past it. And don't be afraid of just knocking on peoples' doors, you'll make a new friend. "

Rachel

I would tell myself to sleep and eat better, take better care of myself, exercise regularly, and focus my focus. I would tell myself to get a steady job on campus and keep it during my whole college career for financial security. I would tell myself to not stay up all night studying so hard that I'd burn out because the effects of being physically and mentally burned out will affect you for a long time. I would tell myself to ask for help more when I didn't understand because feeling embarrassed about not understanding but then ultimately getting the grade is better than letting my pride make me to not do well in the class. I would tell myself to take physical breaks to increase oxygen and endorphins to keep me mentally healthy and able to focus on my studies. I would tell myself to not be intimidated by anyone or anything, that as long as I put my mind to something I can learn, understand, test well, and prove myself in my field of study. Lastly, I would remind myself to keep the big picture in mind because this is only one season of my life.

Jonathan

When I entered my high school guidance counselors offices as a high school junior, they used to pull out a chart showing the average GPA of students who got into the universities I wanted to attend and where mine fell (well short) of where theirs were plotted on the graph. I used to refer to the chart as “The Dreamcrusher”. I simply gave up applying for scholarships and lost my eligibility for state-sponsored scholarships that could have easily paid for my higher education if I would have put forth the effort during my final two years in high school. Presently, I’m pursuing a PhD at the school I had always wanted to attend back in high school. If I could go back and give advice to myself as a high school senior I would simply tell myself that there is always a way to accomplish your goal, even if others tell you that you can’t attain it. Tune out those who say you can’t and listen to those individuals who foster your dreams and build you up. It turns out most of the time; the naysayers have no idea what they are talking about.

Joshua

I need more interesting people in my life. All of high school I was concerned with the character I was portraying to my fellow classmates and how particular people viewed this character. Coming to a large University, it is easy to feel like a small tadpole in puddle the size of a college football stadium. After some time, concerning myself with how the other students on campus view me proved futile. Instead, I decided to show my true colors and seek out other brightly colored fish as well. Finding such people has not been easy, but I have found the search to be more rewarding then my original plan of trying to fit in. People will gravitate towards you if they see that you have a true passion for what you believe in, and although open to opinion, you don't care if people don't like it. Having more people like this in my life has allowed me to learn more about myself and my own ideals, even when it has been with a person who has values completely contrary to my own. If I had known this sooner, I could have saved my self time and frustration.

dottie

You know going to college would be a great thing to accomplish, especially your future. Just think what you could do with yourself with a college education. You could be very successful in your line of field in which ever what you wanted to do. You could have a career in anything that you wanted to become. So why not and go reach for your goals in life.

Rafael

College is not as scary of a place as you think. In fact, college is the place where you will make lifelong friends, individuals who will help shape you and help you, all the while walking right alongside you in your journey through life. Yet, to succeed in college, not only do you need to know who you are, you need to accept yourself. Accept your strengths and weaknesses. Accept your differences. Accept your limitations. Accept all these things but do not remain satisfied with things as they are. Use this time in your life to challenge yourself, to demand excellence from yourself, to find the person you have always wanted to be. College will be stressful as you find a balance between your academics and life. but never forget your purpose pursuing a higher education. Your future is in your hands. Everyone will pressure you but you know that you will succeed as long as you pursue what makes you happy. Your degree is important but your field of study is even more important. Find your passion and pursue it. Then, and only then, will you understand why everyone says that college will change your life.

Ryan

I would tell myself to probably take more Duel Enrollment classes to get most of the Gen Eds taken care of and I would tell myself to apply for scholarships like crazy because college is not cheap. I would also talk myself into doing marching band the first semester so I could make more friends faster and have a chance to go to another country with them. I would definately tell myself not to underestimate classes based on how they sound because even the one's that may sound easy may not be as such. I would tell myself to put myself out there and make friends right off the back without making the excuse "I have all year to make friends" because having friends from the begining would make life easier than just hanging out with the friends from high school.

Taylor

Dear senior me, Facebook will not be there for you in ten years when you can no longer afford your internet bill. Neither will that boy you spend so much time with instead of doing your homework, nor will that flakey friend that uses you for a ride and isn’t really there for you to begin with. So do yourself a favor, and quit thinking about them. Quit giving them your precious time, because right now the only thing that matters is you. It’s all you, baby! This your future, your career, and your happiness we’re talking about. What’s getting in your way are the miniscule things you let distract you, things that bring you temporary happiness but in the end prove to be a crushing blow to your success. To truly be successful, your focus needs to be you. You’re going to be in college next year, and you need to prepare yourself for the future. You have two options: success or failure. You choose your fate based off the choices you make and the people and things you choose to spend your time on. So please, for our sake- choose wisely.

Javine

I would give the students the advice of building their studying skills and actually learning the material the teaching is teaching. In college you will need that prior knowledge of the information that makes it easier for you to succeed. They should also know that anything is possible for them all they have to do is try to attain it.

Katherine

If you have the change to go to a vocational school in high school take that path. My sister is a high school senior going to a vocational school for nursing assistance and once she completes that program she can go right into the community college for the nursing program. Since I did not go to the vocational school I have to take addtional college courses, take a nursing test, apply for the nursing program, and wait to be accepted into the program.

Ana

I would tell myself to do more research on the different types of majors at the school and that it's ok to change majors during college. I would definitely tell myself to take a minor along with my major to add more value to my degree. College has so many different types of people so it would be wise to venture out instead of staying in my comfort zone; there are so many networking opportunities with different groups. Definitely have a relationship with my professors, they can be of great assistance for when you need to apply for graduate school. Something important would be keeping in contact with my high school friends that happened to attend the same univeristy. Somehow separation occurs after each year even with those that I met in college, so make sure to not let that happen. Most importantly is to make the most of my college experience so that I could look back and say "It was everything and more. I didnt miss out on anything".

Isabel

To enjoy the fact of how small high school is compared to college. Also, know that being close to home is not a bad thing, and actually a better decision. Yes, seeing people from your high school in college might not be the greatest, but you will meet new people who will be even better friends with you than some of the close friends you had in high school. And don't be conceited; even though you graduated 7 in a class of over 800, college is hard, and being on the pre-veterinary track makes it even harder. So study hard, don't stress too much, and relish your small world for now.

Daniel

Going into college for the first time, I had the biggest fear of being alone. I had held on too tightly to and relied almost completely on the friends I was so close to in highschool and as a result of that, I eventually lost them. For whatever reason they had, the drifted away and I was left alone. It was painful; it was the firts time in my life that I felt I had no one; no friends, no family, absolutely no one around me. But it was in that lonliness that I realized my mistake; that I need to let go of people or else I would essentially be stuck on trying to hold on to the friends that were at one point so dear to me. And so that is the advice I would give to myself: Fear not the feeling of being alone, be able to let go and learn to do things on your own. Everyone has their own things going on, and you do to. You'll meet plenty of new interesting people, if anything you'll be surrounded by them, no need to stay stuck on the past. Love college and be happy.

Patryk

Dear High School me, College is Hard! I know this may come as a schock to you since you've gotten all A's without studying for practically your entire life. But if you really want to succeed when you get to college you will study. Well you probably won't since you are arrogant High School me so you'll end up with a C+ in chemistry (yes you really did get a C !). You need to know that once you get into college that it is an entirely different pond there. The kids are just as smart as you are ; that's why they got into the same school ! To stay on top like you are now, you must put in a lot more effort which is actually manageble because you'll have a lot more time to be productive- or unproductive. Make sure not to procrastinate or else you'll just be repeating your high school habits but unlike the amazing results you got in High School it will end in disaster. Hopefully you'll listen to my advice and turn that C+ in Chem into the A everyone expected. Good Luck! Sincerely, College You

Taylor

The best advice I would give myself is to relax and be open with the experience. There are a lot of stresses with the transition of college but there comes a lot of good times with the new people that you meet. You come across so many new faces that you just need to enjoy the moment with everyone. When there are bumps in the road don't let that get you too down because that's just small happening in a huge life event. Most of the drama and problems you face will not even be remembered by the time of next year. So don't sweat the small stuff and enjoy what is in front of you today. School can be stressful but once school is done it is the real world and no going back. College is the time of you life and just take it day by day. There is no reason to get overwhelmed because everyone is in the same boat as you and at the end of the day everything will turn out how it is supposed to be. Enjoy the company of the people you met and just have a good time.

kevin

Expect to work even harder, anything that you are taking right now is cake compared to what you will see in college. Also do not forget to apply for scholarships and have an open mind about things.

Keith

I would tell myself to apply for as many scholarships as I can. I always thought that with Florida Prepaid and Bright Futures I would be set, but that it is not the case at all. I never realized how expensive college really is and I regret not applying for any scholarships. I would also tell myself to make certain that I would get along with my roommmate. I was fortunate enough to be able to pick my roommate. I thought we would get along great but, unfortunately, that was not the case. If I knew what my roommate would do to me then I would not have chosen him.

Stephen

Do: - Be nice and friendly to everyone you meet, especially other freshmen (you're all in the same boat, might as well make friends in it) - Take your schoolwork a bit more seriously than high school (it actually requires effort and studying now!) - brush your teeth and shower, because everyone hates the stinky man in lecture Don't: - carry around a map.. you look like an idiot! campusmap.ufl.edu is your friend. - rep your high school gear all the time... Once in a while is okay, but nobody really cares that you were the track star out of 10 kids in the smallest school in the country. (harsh I know, but true) - pretend to be something you're not... There are over 50,000 students here. You are bound to find a few like-minded people. Conforming will make you eventually very unhappy. Being yourself and finding those worthy few can make college a wonderful experience to share with them.

Ashley

I would tell myself to apply for scholarhips with local organizations. I've had a desire to attend graduate school since I was in high school. Graduate students don't have as many opportunities to qualify for scholarships as undergraduates have. The possibility of winning enough scholarship money during my undergraduate years to pay for graduate school expenses could have became my reality.

Zachary

Number one thing is to get involved early and don't miss opportunities to be social. Academics obviously comes first but it'll amaze you how much more fun and easy college is when you know people. Get started with any student organization early on, stick with it and you'll have a great resume and great friends. Also, make sure you wear shoes in the showers...yeah.

Guylande

Old self, don't forget to apply for those scholarships. Apply, apply, apply! Just apply! Also, don't forget to get started into setting time management habits. Make it a custom to stick to the agenda and not get distracted. Make it a habit to see my teachers because I definitely need to go to my professsors' office hours. Also, old self, don't forget to network, get connected someway and make new friends. Don' t be shy, people don't bite (well most don't). Get a bike both for transportation. You definitely don't want to be caught in UF's traffic jam on the way to class while the bike lane is barren empty. Also, exercise because the freshman-15 is not a fairytale, it is based on thousands of true stories. You don't want to go home on Thanksgiving looking like the turkey itself. Get involved, don't think that all that involvement on senior year is the end of the road. No, get even more involved if that's possible but do set a high mark for community service and different activities, and most of all - don't forget to be you.

S

If I were to go back in time and talk to myself about college I would probably tell myself a few different things. One would be to not bring as much stuff. I share a dorm with one roommate and with the amount of stuff we both brought there isn't much room to move around. Next, I would tell myself to be more friendly towards others. Its easier on everyone if people are nice. Join a group and smile more to meet more people. I would also highly encourage finding a study group or a partner who knows their stuff and can help because I don't study very well on my own and for many of these courses studying is required. My last tip would probably be just remember to think positive and hold your head high and you can accomplish anything.

Kellie

Going back to my time as a high school senior I would tell myself to enjoy every minute of it and to take advantage of all of the dual-enrollment classes that they offer. College is an exciting time in your life and you will love it but there is no need to rush through high school. You will miss your family and yes it takes time to adjust to college but you will be fine. Use your time wisely in high school and get as many classes out of the way as you can while you don't have to pay for textbooks or tuition. And the best advice I could give is be yourself and have a great time.

Nathen

Knowing what I know now, I would have two pieces of advice for my high school-self; Stay focused and always keep a positive mind-set. If you do not follow those two pieces of advice, college can easily become overwhelming. When I first realized how expensive college really is, I felt really demoralized and even had doubts about my decision to go to a four year university. Thankfully, my parents and I were able to figure out a way to make things work. In reality, there was no reason to freak out in the first place. By keeping a calm mind and focusing on the issue, we had taken care of the issue. Having a negative outlook on things can make issues so much worse than they really are. Keeping a positive outlook on things and focusing on challenges in your life can help you discover plenty of solutions to whatever you may be faced with. Had I known this in my senior year of high school, I probably would have enjoyed my senior year more and have an easier, less-stressful transition into college.

nichole

Dear Nichole, I know you dont realize this yet, but it is the best thing you can do with your life. Please hang in there, it is for your future. College is great it has transformed me as a person. It has given me an oppurtunity to become more, to challenge myself. I took leaps to get here and i will never go back.Working this hard day and day, it has never felt so good. Someday Nichole you will stand on your own two feet, face life in the eyes and you will take it on. You will succeed Nichole, you have the power within, use it wisely.Today is the day, go after it for all you have. Good luck!

Galin

I would tell myself to always put school first, no matter what. Having fun is an important part of growing up, and I will always have some time to have fun, but school comes first and it is my number one priority.

Daniel

Don't let senioritis get to you, it'll all be worth it in the end.

Bao

Truthfully, I wouldn't advice my high school self anything. I believe that part of the college experience is the surprise and shocking things that my high school self will learn when she goes to college. The experience that I learned helped me grow and mature and I think my highschool self need to experience it. The transition from highschool to college is a large part of the experience that's why I don't want to advice my high school self anything. The reason is because my high school self will need to learn by herself, make mistake and learn from her mistakes, just like what happened to me. I wouldn't change anything that I've experienced during college and I don't want my advice to change any experiences that my highschool self will miss out on even if they are horrible. College is all about finding oneself and I believe that my high school self will find herself her own way even without advice.

Dennis

Assuming I could go back into the 2007-2008 year, when I was a high school senior, I would offer myself some tips for college success. I would tell Dennis to strive only for excellence in college. He needs to know that the best way to like college is to get really good grades, so I would tell him to be the best student possible. Also, it might help Dennis to hear that the transition from high school to college is exciting, fulfilling, and worth the change. I would tell Dennis that he should not feel embarrassed because he is going to be a poor college student. I would tell him that it is very possible to change his income level with a good education. I would tell him to believe in himself, especially when it seems that no one else does. And it might help him to understand that he will not get every thing he wants, nor will he be entitled to good things in life without working hard. Thinking back to high school reminds me of how fast those days went, and it reminds me of the many times I longed to go back but cannot.

Luisa

Luisa, if I knew what I know now you will be in the very peak of the mountain. Being involved in more extra-curricular activities, being a bit more outstanding throughout the school years would have been a great opportunity to meet more intellectual individuals. If you would not have been involved in a romantic relationship that deviated you a bit from some more important things, you could have been at the very top. You could have accomplished much more if you would have enrolled as a dual enrolled student much earlier. Your career will be finished in shorter time than expected. Although, after being in the United States for four years, with no English language background, or any high school or college career orientation for the future you did not do bad at all. I am proud, but I am also glad I can get to tell you what you should have done in order to be successful in life. Do me a favor, do not get off track until a concrete part of your life has been established, make us all prouder, and keep in mind a clear reason and a purpose for your near future.

Jeannie

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to keep working hard; graduating high school is the door opening for better things to come. I would tell myself to continue to be creative and assure myself that everything will be okay. I would tell myself to stop worrying about finding someone to love me and instead focus on finding the courage to love myself. I would also tell myself that transferring to a new place will allow me to meet more people who will help me find my true self. Along with this, I would tell myself to take self-defense classes so I would gain the confidence to protect myself. Lastly, I would tell myself to never be afraid of taking risks in showing people who I really am, think about the decisions I am making, and keep thinking about how all the hard work I'm doing in school will make my future that much brighter; that as long as I keep working hard and never give up, all my dreams will come true.

Stephanie

As a high school senior, I was terrified at the idea of college. I got into the best school in the state, but it also happened to be two and a half hours away from home. Without a car, it seemed like I'd be stranded in a place where I knew not a single person among nearly 50,000. There was a part of me so afraid to go that I almost settled for going to a school much closer to home. If I were to go back and talk to that terrified person, I'd let her know that she made the best decision of her life! Upon getting to college and realizing that the whole community was there to welcome me with open arms, I realized that I would not have wanted to be anywhere else. I've met some of the most interesting people through joining groups like the speech and debate team as well as mentoring 8th graders at a local middle school. I'm able to manage interesting, challenging classwork, while still managing to have a great time meeting new people and expanding my horizons. Embrass college, do not be afraid of it!

Katherine

I'd tell myself that although it is school, I shouldn't try to take as many credits as possible so I can "knock" certain courses/credits out of the way, becasue college not only is supposed to be a learning experience, but also a growing experience, and full of fun and learning how to take care of myself and be independent. It also is a teacher of how to manage time. Also, I would tell myself that if I want ot do something, I need to be assertive and proactive, therefore if I can't find it while just standing, I need to go look for it. For meeting people, I'd tell myself, to welcome all new people with open arms and an open mind, because everyone has different opinions and different beliefs, but they also share the same interest in finding companionship that can last for a lifetime.

Andrew

Going back in time is something that everyone wishes they could do. I feel that I should have listened more carefully to my brother and sister, both college graduates. My brother was in a fraternity, and while he thinks that they are necessary for establishing like minded friends, he doesn't think incoming 1st semester freshmen should be permitted to pledge. I am now in agreement with that comment. It's very tough to acclimate academically, and the many social activities can make it tough to study! I also wish I had applied earlier for a room on campus. I lived a bus ride and long walk to many of my classes. I was stubborn and a high school friend wanted me to room with him. Again, I should have listened this time to my sister and my mom. I'm incredibly happy with my decision to attend the University of Florida after thinking that it was strictly for brilliant students. I'd tell myself never to judge without knowledge.

Jenna

I would tell myself to not be so stresses about the finances. It was so hard the first couple of weeks because I would worry about whether all of my scholarships and loans would pay for my tuition and fees, books, food and housing. The money came in and now I just realize that instead of stressing, I should have applied for more scholarships and been more ambitious. I would tell myself to do scholarships in my spare time as well as study harder and take the ACT (I should have taken it, I don't know why I didn't.) I would tell myself not to worry so much and that everything works out the way it should. I also would tell myself not to do sorority recruitment because it didn't work out and that it just ended up costing me more money. I should just relax and let the college life unfold.

teng

After Graduation, i really thought i was ready for college and the excitement of finally, being able to go out and be an adult seemed like so much fun. Much to my surprised, how ever it takes alot of hard work and dedication. Many of the skills you learned in high school, wasn't exactly useful. You had no idea you'd be in so much loan debt, just after two years of college. I would've told myself to save money and at least worked part time to put down savings for a college degree. I also would've prepared myself mentally, for the long road I would be on. Parents, and teachers told you it would only take you 2-4 years at the least to get that degree. Myself meaning, it was going to take much longer then that. The dissapointments really takes a toll on you sometimes. And if i had known then what i know now. I really should have done my real homework and research the Cost of college life. Perhaps, better prepare myself mentally and emotionally for the pressure that was to come.

Olgert

It would an amazing opportunity if I could go back in time and give myself some words of advice regarding college life. Back in high school I was definitely not prepared to face the struggles that college brings; from the heavy course load to some financial hardships, it is tough to handle it all at once. This transition is difficult and not everyone is ready for it. I wish I could go back and tell myself to be more organized and responsible regarding my classes. In high school it was easy to manage the classes and homework and still get a good grade. Starting college it was not that easy I realized. One has to really settle down and spend more time with each course and re-read all the material. Also, it is necessary to keep a planner to make sure you do not miss any assignments or club meetings, as many people forget when they are under stress. Overall, I think I would tell my high school self to keep a level-headed mind and be responsible in all my classes and not to take things too lightly.

Karen

Reminiscing about my experiences in high school as a senior, include memories from both extremes of the spectrum; sad moments, like when we lost at semifinals in volleyball, and happy recollections as gown searching for prom. Looking back, I wonder of the decisions I made when I was a senior. Although what I miss the most was my untainted bright attitude towards failure. When you are freshmen in college, many professors and staff members guide the students on the importance of hard working, studying and persistence; which these are the qualities of a good student. However, what I have learned on my own is the importance in learning how to overcome your failures. I would tell the past me, that in college everything is as hard as people do say, but that there is nothing that hard work can’t overcome. Keep that untainted spirit and vividness of wanting to progress, and most importantly, there will be times where certain situations might seem to have no solution and feel like a disappointment. Yet it will be that feeling of failure that will push you to keep studying and working harder, just to be one step closer to your dreams.

Katherine

If I could talk to my high school senior self, I would tell myself to stop stressing about everything. I would let myself know that everything is going to work out and that I'm going to blossom more than I could ever imagine in college.

THELMA

I am currently enrolled in North West Arkansas Community College. I work for Wal-Mart as a Shift Manager after coming up through the ranks beginning as a cashier. I have been employed with this company for approximately 13 years and decided that I wanted to get a degree. I have been participating in online classes for about a year. Growing up in a house of five children we did not have an opportunity to go to college. My father passed away when I was about seven leaving my mother with five small children so needless to say we didn’t have a lot of extra on a shirt factory wage. I am divorced and have 2 teenage children one 15 and the other 17. My son has joined the jump start program for the Air Force and my daughter plans on attending college after graduation. Knowing what I know now I would have tried harder to go to college at a much younger age and not waited until I was 45 to do so, with that being said I am glad that I can go now and still have the desire to achieve more in my life.

Shanna

Forget all of the stereotypical and judgemental high school cliques that you're used to. Don't worry about dressing to impress, working hard to fit in, or trying to act cool to gain friends. College, especially the University of Florida, is so diverse that there is a club, team, volunteer group, or extracurricular activity for virtually everyone. You will find your niche simply by going out and participating in what you love. From the performing and visual arts, to sports teams like Ultimate Frisbee and the Quiddich Team for Harry Potter fans, to several types of dance and yoga classes, everyone will find exactly where they fit in: with people that are passionate about what you love too. Don't stress about your social transition because your academic transition will be a more pressing issue. Work hard, earn the best grades you can, and socialize on the weekends; everything will work out better than you ever expected.

Jared

Do not stress out about your first year of college, you will rock it. Classes will be a bit tougher than in high school. Marching band will take up a lot of time. You’re a smart guy though, and have the ability to manage your time quite effectively—you will earn A’s and B+’s in all your courses. The single most valuable piece of advice I can give you is to enjoy every minute of your time in college. Classes and schoolwork do come first, but you will find that there will still be plenty of time for socialization. Do not be shy in making new friends. You will almost always find yourself in the presence of genuine, caring people who will become some of the best friends you have. By all means keep your high school friends, as your bonds with them will only strengthen, but be sure to reach out to new people you meet this year. You will not regret it.

Alyssa

If I could go back in time and talk to myself before college, I’d have a long talk about money management. Unfortunately, before college I had never really had a job or experience with large amounts of money, so when I found myself with scholarships, grants, and graduation money left over, I didn’t know how to handle it. I went shopping a lot, and I rationalized buying things I didn’t need. One moment that particularly stands out in my mind is when I went shopping with my roommates at Pac Sun. I found a dress that was cute, but not really my style. I convinced myself to get it because it was ‘such a good deal’. The only thing I can remember about the dress now is that I’ve probably worn it twice. Because it wasn’t really my style, I was never in a mood to wear it. Now, I realize I could’ve spent that money on something I know I could use. Going back, after telling myself that story, I’d hope that my younger self listens, and uses her money more wisely. Either way, it’s a lesson I have learned.