University of Georgia Top Questions

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

Alma

To high school me: College isn't scary. Think of it as an extended camp with classes. You study and make sure you keep your grades up, but you will have time to be involved in any organization you want. Try new things. College organizations and students are open and willing to help you, so don't be nervous and shy like I know you can be. There will be times when the dining hall is completely full and you might have to sit with someone you have never met: don't be shy. Talk to them. Everyone there has gone through that or will and understands. You never know who you will meet. Make connections and network with people. It can give you the upperhand with classes or organizations or maybe some outside interest such as hobbies. You won't always get along with your roommate. Always talk things out with her. She becomes your sister. You will know each other inside out, and that is not someone you want to end up not speaking to. To sum my advice up: be yourself and try new things. Work hard, but also know how to play hard. Best, College you

Sara

I would remind myself that one bad test grade does not determine my future, a few good friends are better than a crowd of lousy ones, and the only thing you can plan on is having a change of plans. As confident as you are in high school, college seems like it's made to shake that confidence. Let it! Allow yourself to learn from your mistakes and develop a great sense of humility. What seems like failure is simply a way to guide you to what you're naturally meant to do. Work hard and reward yourself but most of all, remember that you are capable of accomplishing great things. These four years help you figure out who you are in the most confusing, frustrating, and amazing way if you let them.

joseph

Save as much money as possible

Emily

Dear High School Me, You're about to head to college! Considering that we had a tough time with this transition the first time around, here are some things I wish you would've known: 1. You are only as small as you allow yourself to be. Don't be afraid to raise your hand in class. Don't trick yourself into believing everyone is "smarter" than you. It doesn't matter who can answer a question quick on their feet. These students are your comrades, your shoulder to cry on, your future friends. Instead of feeling small, realize this: You're as big as you dream you can be. Go big. 2. Don't let a boy (or anyone for that matter) to dictate your decisions. If you want to go out for a play, learn that monologue! If you want to try out for a position on the recreational soccer team, lace up those cleats! College is meant for new experiences. Experience them. 3. Finally, stay away from the baked tilapia in the dining hall. It's nothing like Grandma's. With love, Your Future Self

Allison

Don't settle for the first people you meet as a base of friendship. I latched onto the first grouop of people that accepted me and we naturally grew apart over the course of 5 years. I would tell myself that it's ok to grow apart from people. It makes you grow as a person.

Mallorie

I would tell myself to breathe. Don't worry about about changing your major or dropping classes. You have to do what you have to do. Don't let one class stress you out to the point that you question dropping out. College is worth the struggle and after your first semster of adjusting you will be fine. Don't let your parents determine what classes you take, do what makes you happy. You are the one getting the education so find a major that you enjoy and that doesn't stress you out constantly. Life is too short to worry. Also, read your textbooks and go to office hours when you are falling behind. It's useful and don't be ashamed that you don't understand because there will be 300 other classmates that are waiting for you to ask that question in class.

Sammi

I tossed and turned all night as I thought, “This place is not my home.” My bed was 5 feet off the ground hovering over my mini fridge and freshly unpacked clothes, it was hot, and there was another person sleeping right across from me. My first night of college was brutal to say the least. Anticipation of what was to come whirled around in my mind at 100 miles per hour. I never thought that this place would become home, that I would build long lasting friendships, nor did I ever think I would even pass my classes. It seemed as if all of these fears were inevitably certain to materialize. As I look back on first semester, not a single one of those worries came true. So what is my advice to you? Take your time; there is no rush to figure your entire life out in one day. Always remember to set your alarm, know that it is okay to walk alone, don’t forget to wash your sheets, and its okay to mess up sometimes. Stay true to yourself and know that the intimidating mountains in front of you will soon become small in retrospect.

Abigail

Abigail, you did a lot of stuff right! But you also did a lot of it wrong, and made many mistakes. You should have enjoyed yourself a little more, while you had your parents to worry about all of the "adult" stuff. You should have taken more electives that interested you, rather than things that were "career-oriented" because you have time for that in college. I wish you had been a risk taker, and stuck up for yourself more rather than being docile and "peace-keeping" to a fault. You love history and contemporary issues, so don't feel bad when you struggle in math or science! You don't have to be good at everything. Your JV tennis career will be a frustrating and bitter disappointment, but that's okay. Learn to just play for fun, and don't let the pressure and competition make you hate something that you love. Try to be nicer to people in general- you never know if they have something going on in their lives causing them to be mean to you. Finally, always keep a good relationship with your parents- they love you very much.

Verena

Growing up, I was a perfectionist. Failures would tear me apart making me feel unworthy of all my previous accomplishments. I thought to myself that I would never again accomplish anything successfully. Unsurprisingly, that mind set led me to have high levels of stress throughout middle and high school, which in turn made the already difficult process of growing up, balancing academic and extracurricular activities, and having a social life extremely challenging. Perfectionism was a false friend that seemed to urge me to succeed but led me to sacrifice my mental health. Finally in my senior year of high school, I was overloaded searching for scholarships and colleges and completing coursework and leading clubs. I snapped. After a mental breakdown, a night of crying, and a mother-daughter talk, I realized this wasn't healthy, and it needed to stop; unfortunately, I realized it too late. Those hours spent towards perfection were taken from times I should have slept and ate. I was fatigued and became anemic. My struggles created my present happy, healthy, successful self, but I wish I could have saved myself some trouble. To my younger self, relax. You are much better than you think.

Ashley

I would tell myself that studying and going to class should be top priority over everything. Striving for excellence over popularity is the most important thing you can do; never be afraid to ask for help either!

Sydney

I would tell myself that taking risks is worth it when it comes to what you love. I came from a very small high school with a graduating class of 46 in Michigan, and I fell in love with a large university in Georgia. It was everything I ever wanted in a school, but it was a risk committing to the school because of the distance and financial requirements. At the same time, I craved adventure and a chance to experience a whole new life. I ended up committing to the University of Georgia, and I'm finishing up my first semester here. I would tell my high school self that UGA is everything that I ever hoped it would be, and more. I didn't know a single person when I came to school here, but I've met some of the most amazing people so far. Packing up and leaving my whole life behind seemed very scary and indimidating at first, but the decision was well worth the sacrifice. I've loved having the chance to discover who I really am, and I know that I made the right choice by coming here.

Bailey

Learn to study. Senior year is fun and easy and a smooth breeze after you get accepted into the college of your choice, but don't forget your work ethic. College is VERY HARD. Teachers don't care about your family or friends or boyfriends. They don't even care about your grade. Their job is to teach and lecture and they couldn't care less whether you show up or not. Pick your friends because you genuinely like them and enjoy their company. In college you don't have to hang out with people to please your mom. You're on your own and you decide who you want to hang out with. So make friends that you get along with and have things in common with and keep in touch. One bad grade isn't going to kill you. It stinks when you don't do as well as you hoped for, but life isn't about A's and B's. No one cares what you made on your AP US History exam in college. There are more important things happening in the world today. Talk to your family and tell them you love them.

Jessica

If i could go back in time and tell my high school self something it would be to work hard on scholarships. I never knew how expensive college was until actually seeing my student account balance and going through the days when I wanted some extra money in my pocket. I would tell myself to look at scholarships as a partime job. I would say complete at least 3 scholarships a week. I would also tel myself to get involved in the thingd ging around on campus During the first couple of weeks is when the vub recruiters are out, do not be afraid to join them because later you will have some free time with nothing to do.

Rachel

I would tell myself to look at more options for colleges and not just go in-state because it seemed like an easy thing to do. I wish I had looked at more schools and reallly paid attention to what I wanted in a college. I would also tell myself not to feel so stressed about living on my own, because you start to get the hang of things fairly quickly. I'd remind myself to loosen up a little and not put so much pressure on myself. College only lasts for four years, so you really have to take advantage of all the people you can meet and all the opportunities you can have. You can learn so much, both in and out of class, and you can have so much fun. Once you find the right balance of work and play, college is fantastic!

Hayley

The advice that I would give to myself if I was able to go back to my senior year, would be to try harder and not to focus on just keeping my grades high enough to play soccer and softball. I would tell myself to study a lot more. I would tell myself to procrastinate and put things off until the last minute, not to get so discouraged so easily when I was unable to get the correct answer to say a math problem. I would have tried to make myself more prepared for the transition to the college teaching style and the load of work that was required also the deadlines being so short when having to write papers. If I had this advise before now I may have been able to do better in school.

Courtney

I would tell myself to not change a thing. I thoroughly enjoyed highschool, but all the while I put in the effort that was neccesary to make good grades that brought me to a college that I love. Had I changed anything from highschool, I wouldn't have had the wonderful academic and extra-curricular experience that I had, and that may have hindered me from getting to the school I am at now. I would also tell myself to enjoy every minute of high school, and to take in every moment, because high school is an incredible time that you won't get back. If I had to give myself one piece of advice, it would be to enjoy my parents still paying for most things while I can, and save as much money as possible. While that Starbucks run before school may be tempting, you will need that money for other things in a few years. Other than that, I would just say to never rush a day of it, and to sit back and enjoy every second of a wonderful time in your life.

Emily

- Enjoy every moment of college, even the more difficult ones, because it's over in the blink of an eye - Sometimes skipping class is good for your sanity - Take advantage of afternoon naps because the working world doesn't believe in that sacred event - Don't take grades so seriously. One bad grade is not going to fail you. Plus I'm sitting here as a college graduate so obviously you don't flunk out - Make friends with your professors. They are a wealth of information - Don't be embarrassed to sign up for that free tutoring - You don't have to go out with that college guy just because he asked - Learn to love coffee. It'll be a lifesaver when those all-nighters are necessary

sammi

I'm not going to say that drinking is wrong or to say no to drugs because I know you won't listen, but I will say what I have learned. College has the potential to be the best and worst experience of your life but it all depends on your choices. You can choose the classes you take, whether you're going to work hard or barely get by, you can chose what clubs to join or how to do your hair but most importantly you choose who your friends are. You can fight it all you want but there is truth to the phrase "you are who you hang out with". My advice to you is to be who you are. Be who you are most comfortable with and don't get caught up in the violent flow of the social rapids. Take a stand and be who you were created to be. You are made the way you are for a very specific purpose, why would you change that for a chance to fit in? Be who you are and the rest of your college career will fall into place.

Teeda

If I could go back to my senior year and give myself college advice, I would tell myself "take your AP exams seriously; don't take 8 AM classes; learn how to manage your time wisely; learn how to study; learn how to write/analyze for english; and don't give up." I learned so much from my freshman year. I struggled with learning how to study effectively. College did not come easy; I was used to making A's in high school. I believed it was going to be easy. I was wrong. I developed a weird sleep schedule, stressed out over everything, and didn't have a huge social life. I did enjoy my small group of friends, which made me enjoy my freshman year. Despite my battles with adjusting to college, I enjoyed my freshman year at the University of Georgia.

Sydney

If I was able to talk to senior me, I would tell her to not wish her freshman year away. I spent a lot of time wishing for Fridays downtown with my friends or Saturday football games between the hedges while the week was passing me by. It took me a couple of months to realize that it doesn't matter what day it is on the UGA campus, the spirit of being a Dawg is everywhere: in the walk through Tate, on the hike up Baxter after a long day of studying at the SLC, the themed dinners at the dining halls. You never once forget that you attend one of the best universities in the country. Also, I worried a lot about making friends. Greek or not, when people say that you'll meet your best friends in college, they're right. I never would have thought that I would meet two of my best friends on the first night before rush as a result of them making a lot of noise hammering burlap into the wall with a hairbrush, but I did. Oh, and one last thing, go to Ramsey and never take Family Housing.

Lindsey

College years are filled with much more learning than I expected. Not only do we learn about our desired careers, but also about the kind of work it takes to get there, how to live with a roommate, and how to balance our social lives with school, work, and family. We learn to take responsibly for our actions, figure out who we truly are, and grow into independent adults. When I graduated from high school, my idea of college was what I saw in the movies. If I could visit my high school senior self, there would be numerous tips I could share. I would start by telling her to invest in a nice pair of rain boots, a good umbrella, and an agenda! I would also tell her to be completely honest and upfront with her roommate from the beginning. If you think the volume on the television is too loud while you are sleeping, go ahead and politely ask her to turn it down a notch or two. My biggest piece of advice would be to explore new things, but to always stay true to your values and morals. Never let someone else change who you are.

Joel

LEARN HOW TO MANAGE YOUR TIME WISELY! Everything may seem like fun and games, but college is much tougher than high school when it comes to the work. In high school, your teachers baby you, big time! In college, it is a different world. You get mutiple assignments that overlap one another and it's your responsibility to keep up with when they are all due. The professors give you the syllabus and it's all you from there. When you have overlapping assignments like this, you cannot procrastinate. The longer you wait to do an assignment, the more stressful your life becomes. College is your job and you should treat it that way. Manage your time wisely and get your assigntments finished before the very last minute!

Blanca

Do do things in time and take advantage of all the opportunities that were given to me, but I didn't utilize.

Timothy

If there is one thing that I know about myself, it is that I have always been an organized person. So, if I want back in time to my high school self, I would probably make a list of advice to give him so that the transition would be smoother. Here is how it would look: 1. College is awesome. You know that freedom that you keep hearing about from your college friends? Well it is true. You make your own schedule and stick to your own rules. 2. College is tough, but not too tough. It is certainly harder than high school, but just stay focused and you will do fine. 3. College is full of opportunities. Don't be afraid to branch out and try new things. 4. College is diverse. I know you feel uncomfortable with it, but TALK TO PEOPLE! The friends you make here will last a lifetime. 5. College is what you make it. This is the most important advice I can give you, Tim: make college special. From the day that you move in, don't waste a single minute, because you can't get these years back.

Michael

College really is all it's cracked up to be. It's a wonderful place where you're the only one in charge of you. Learn to be a morning person. Learn to accept people as they are. Most of all, learn to commit yourself. Without commitment, grades, relationships, and your future will suffer. Once you have your sights set on a goal, you commit your whole self to achieving that goal. It will be painful, you will not like the work, but it will be worth it. Finally, professors are people. Seriously, you've heard it a million times but INTRODUCE YOURSELF. Simply talking to the teacher a few times a month outside of class has saved my bacon in three classes (and helped me keep HOPE. That's a $14,000/year payoff for simply talking to a few people). Oh, and have fun. You'll always look back and wish you could go to college again.

Alexis

Rooming with friends might be a great idea, but you will realize you did not know this person as well as you thought you did. Just because they've been your friend for a long time does not mean you will not want to throw them out of the window when they wake you coming home at 2am the day of a big test.

Ally

If I could go back two years, I'd say to myself to not care so much about what my parents think. To stop trying to do the opposite of what they want just to prove a point and seem independent. I'm going to change my major anyway so it's best to stay home where I don't have to pay an arm and a leg to get an education. The friends I have at home are the ones that are going to stick by my side and the ones I would be making in Georgia won't be there when I need them most. Make the rational decision, not the emotional one.

Tyler

I've struggled with depression since my late teens but didn't acknowledge the severity of my problem until my late twenties. Throughout college I struggled with motivation, relationships, and substance abuse without understanding that I could get better. I was ashamed of my "weakness," and instead of seeking help I did my best to hide my problems. Although I maintained good grades, I missed out on many opportunites to turn my education into a career. I wish I would have taken more time to network and pursue internship opportunites, but the weight of depression made it difficult to keep my life in order. Even more than the missed career opportunites I regret the unneccessary years spent carrying that weight. In some ways I feel like my life didn't start until I got the help I needed. If I could go back in time I would tell my younger self that it's not weak to ask for help.

Elizabeth

If I could talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself not to be so nervous about being away from home, because Athens has become my second home that I have grown to love. I would tell myelf to prepare to study hard, and learn how to do so efficiently, because college classes are nothing like high school classes. Most importantly, I would tell myself not to get lost in all the work and remember to have fun.

Kathryn

Katie, Here are three things to remember as you make the transition to college: 1) Even if you don't consider yourself a "morning person," you should consider your 8 a.m. classes as practice for your job - which begins promptly at 8 a.m. Every. Single. Day. Five. Days. A. Week. 2) Follow your heart and find time to help others. Volunteering will introduce you to great people, help you explore your interests, and build your knowledge of the disparities in the world. 3) Have fun! You will only be in this learning environment for four years. Once you graduate, you'll miss the days of dining halls, pre-planned club activities and spending the afternoons reading on a lawn. Say "yes" more than "no" and take advantage of the myriad opportunities around you. Sincerely, The Older and Wiser Katie (Trust me) PS: Despite your best attempts to roll out of bed and make it on time to your 8 a.m. class, remember that you have no excuse to leave your dorm room in pajama pants. Ever.

Katelyn

Study. High school is nothing more than the gateway to a good college. A good college translates into strong academics, rigorous coursework, real life experiences, and networking within your field. Right now, I know the social scene of high school is all consuming, your friends and boyfriend seem significantly more interesting than your AP English homework. But trust me, in five years, your social rankings at Northgate High will be more irrelevant than you can possibly imagine. You will realize your relaxed academic approach of simply getting by is detrimental. College professors will not hold your hand, they will not collect your homework, and they will not have sympathy for a poor score. Begin holding yourself accountable today because, ultimately, no one else will. You are the maker of your future. No one will lose sleep at night if you are unable to accomplish your goals, if you continue having a relaxed approach to your schoolwork and life. No one will lose sleep except yourself. Start today. Today is the first day of the rest of your life. Get a good nights sleep, hit the books harder, and start holding yourself accountable. Trust me, you'll be better for it.

Leeanna

If I could go back in time and give my high school self advice about college I think I would tell myself to make sure I get involved and to try to come out of my shell a little. I would tell myself that there are so many ways to get out there and meet new people that like the same things you do, you just have to take advantage of them. I would also tell myself that professors may seem big and scary but they are not people you can afford to be afraid of and that if you are having trouble in a class, go to the professor's office hours and have them help you. Even just reviewing your exams and seeing what you did wrong with your professor may prevent you from having to take Accounting I twice.

Anna

Don't be shy. Don't shrink into yourself. Abide by the holy words: A life lived in fear is a life half lived. I have done that, and my half lived life is twice as amazing as I ever thought I'd have. Watch Dead Poet's Society and promise yourself you will Carpe Diem. Watch Doctor Who and promise yourself you will run. Watch Fight Club and know that this is your life and it is ending one minute at a time. Then stop watching and start doing. Nothing but fear will hold you back.

Austin

Specifically, I would tell myself to not take too many classes in the first semester. I would also order myself not to ever neglect calculus homework. Instead of waiting until October to apply for a job at one of the food service locations, apply as soon as you get there; it will instill a work ethic in you, and the cash isn't bad.

Alexandra

Dear high school Alexandra, College is tough, but you are making it work right now. Before applying to all the big name universities in all states of the US, don't forget about the small ones around you that won't cost as much money but will still get you a great education. Also, make sure you apply early so you get major scholarship opportunities. You know how you are in all the major, hard classes in high school and you get A's on every single test with barely any studying at all? Well here in college, think again. Start preparing yourself to study and read every night and work hard to get an A in the class. It won't come to you as easy or naturally as it does now, so appreciate that. One last thing, enjoy your time in high school, you won't get it back. Enjoy all those moments with your friends and classmates and the last days before graduation. College is you against the world, and you are all on your own. Good luck!

Abijeet

I think the biggest concern I had as a freshmen coming into college was making friends. I've always been a little anxious when it comes to the social aspects of my life. As a child, I was always a little overweight, so being teased every other day come common to me. At the age of 12, my family and I moved to Toronto, and two years later we immigrated to the United States. These are the factors which created an anxiety in making friends in new places for myself. So, when I began college, I was awfully concerned on whether or not I would fit in, who my classmates would be, and if I would make a strong friend group. At 23 years old now, I would tell that 18 year old to not worry about that. Friendships occur naturally to decent people. Without even knowing it, I've created friends that have been with me through thick and thin, and that I still continue to stay in touch with. Also, friends aren't everything. They are just a part in the wonderful experience that is a higher learning education. That is the advice I would give to myself.

Dejana

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to keep persevering- the people that told you that high school will be the best four years of your life are not only sadly mistaken, but probably very bitter people. College, and more importantly- life, await. You will no longer have to ask permission to use the restroom or be excused from class, but with the tremendous freedom comes responsibility. Prepare yourself and be happy that you have made it this far. Many people in the world cannot say that they have recieved over 12 years of education, so be grateful that through the good and bad days, you have recieved this luxury. Don't forget to thank your parents for their back-breaking effort to bring you to the United States, and last but not least- please study for that AP Government exam. A credit for that would have been perfect.

Abigail

If I could go back in time to talk to my former high school self, I would tell her to take AP Statistics. I would also tell her that life in college is going to be very different. Parents are not there to tell students to go to class so I would advise her to never skip a class unless it is an emergency, because the more you skip, the easier it is to not go to class more and more. I would also tell her to not be shy on the first day of classes. It is a big school and she won't be the only one looking for friends, so reach out and meet people. I would also tell her to join as many student organizations as possible that involve her major and maybe even some random ones because that is the best way to get involved with her school as well as the best way to meet new people.

Austin

Give yourself some breathing room. Don't register for so many classes, and study hard for the select few that you do register for. Also, find a way to get into more extra curricular activities. If you get hired to work at one of the food courts, try talking with your co-workers a bit more.

Lili

Breathe. College is going to be the best four years of your life, but also the hardest four years. You will meet people that will change your life in ways that you cannot even imagine. Some days you will want to quit and throw in the towel then you will remember why you are here in the first place. School will overtake your life but that's ok, its suppose to. Teachers will become your coaches and friends will become your family. In order to succeed you must be willingly to give up nights of partying for nights at the library. Life will throw you curve balls during these four years and you will learn to throw them right back, even harder. Do not procrastinate, this will lead you nowhere except to failure. Try your hardest, speak up and do not fall into temptation. College is not for everyone, but it is going to change your life and your future.

Victoria

Always study and have more confidence in your abilities.

Audrey

If I could sit my eighteen-year-old, naive, insecure self down and have a conversation over a cup of coffee, I would want to say a few things. First off, listen to others' advice! You may think you know it all, but really, you don't. Soak up any and all advice and wisdom you hear from families, friends, co-workers, or professors. But also, chase what you are passionate about! Lollygagging along is not going to get you anywhere. Take care of yourself, all-nighters are not as productive as you may think they are, so get some sleep every now and then. Also, take time to be creative, even if your major in college is constantly challenging you to use your imagination or think outside of the box, still take time to do the things you love to do outside of school. There will be bumps in the road, but stay on that path towards the degree you are working so hard to achieve. Be persistant, perseverant, and proceed with determination because, boy, are you going to need it. Lastly, have fun and enjoy every moment: every challenging, every simple, and every exciting moment.

Wes

When I was a high school senior, I was very nervous about college. I had many high expectations; some of myself and some of the University of Georgia. I anticipated how I would fit in and react to such a big college; especially since my hometown is one third the size of the university. I also anticipated a new atmosphere away from home and away from what I was used to. With that in mind, I would tell myself that these next few years are going to be some of the best and most important years of my life. I will learn things that can not be learned elsewhere, I will grow as a person exponentially and grow in my confidence, and I will meet people that I plan to be close friends with for the rest of my life. I would mention that I will learn impotant skills such as time mangement, good studying habits, and ways to leave good impressions. Having been part of the University of Georgia college environment for three and a half years, I can honestly say that I would not have changed anything about the decision I made to go to this university.

Pearl

TAKE YOUR SAT!!! You are screwing up by not taking your SAT. You had everything to get into a 4 year school! The grades, the volunteer work, the clubs- everything, you had it all. By not saving the money to take your SAT, you cost yourself a lot of trouble. 3 year to get your 2 year degree through an inferior community college, endless hours of applying for scholarships, getting put through the wringer. I wish you would have taken your SAT and things would have went so much smoother for you.

Paul

Choose now. As you go to college, you are completely independent. You go where you please, do as you want, and be who you decide. No more parents to tell you what to do. Well, you will be faced with different situations and you will have to choose how to respond. Drugs or no drugs? Alcohol or no Alcohol? Party or don't party? If you decide before the option presents itself, it will be much easier to do the right thing. Choose now to get ahead. Join clubs, sports, community service, etc. Doing this will better qualify you for scholarships and grants so that those college years will be a whole lot less stressful. Choose now who you will be. Don't go out into this world and become what the world makes of you. Make of you what you can and choose who you will be today, so that tomorrow you are a step closer to your full potential. Last of all, don't waste time. Get out there and work.

Ryan

The number one piece of advice I could give myself is to learn how to manage your time and stick to a strict study schedule. College gives you the opportunity to spend your time however you please for the first time in your life. You do not have parents or a set school schedule restricting what times you can study, eat, sleep, or have time to yourself. With this new found freedom it is extremely tempting to not do anything related to schoolwork during your countless hours off and just spend time relaxing. If you keep getting distracted and forget to devote precious time to schoolwork you will fall behind in your studies and your grades will suffer. Try your best to manage your time in a studious fashion inorder to succeed in all of your classes and not let your GPA slip early in your college career. Also even though school work is extremely important it is necessary and vital to spend time with friends and having fun in order to figure out who you really are as an individual and how to you can learn to be the best person you can be.

Dakota

Really try and focus on your interests and try and utilize that in a way to find out what career would be best suited for you. It's so important and it may feel like your goal is to just graduate and get out of school, but it's important to have a plan after school, with a job in mind that will help you prosper and inspire you and make you feel good. Make lots of friends and don't just stick with one crowd. It's important to meet a lot of different people to see where you best fit. And do not start dating seriously your first year of college. It may feel good and secure, but it's more important to make life long friends and learn about yourself before trying to learn how to be a part of a couple.

kelli

Don't listen to what everyone is telling you about their ideas, they do not know for a fact if something does or does not work out. Do whatever you think is best for yourself and work hard. All good things taketime and do not rush into something. If its ment to be it will happen :)

Samuel

From experience, I advise you to join the major clubs (i.e., AVID, FCLA, Key Club), and participate often in service learning activities while staying above a 3.5 G.P.A. This will help you build a competitive student profile and increase the chances of attending a prestigous university. Grades and scores on exams do not entirely determine acceptance. Be the best you can be and strive for being best all-around.

eric

I would sit myself down and say, "Eric, apply as early as possible to save the stress as senior year is a big one! There will be dances, dates, and sporting events to attend. Enjoy yourself with your friends as they will be going on their own seperate paths, but be open to meeting new people in college. Appreciate those teachers who will mentor you this year and tell them how much you have learned from them. They will be an asset in your future. High school ends your 'childhood' of learning so be childish! Academically prepare for college by studying and taking all the AP tests you can to acquire those points toward college credit. You do not want to repeat a math or science class if you can avoid it. The world is your oyster, to be cliche, but it truly is. College will provide you with study abroad programs, so get that passport up to date! Don't be nervous, your family loves you and are your greatest fans!"