University of Georgia Top Questions

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

Nicole

Dear High School Me, Do not worry about your makeup. Do not worry about your clothes. Let's be honest. No one cares. There are two hundred other people in your class, no one is paying attention. Worry about your course work because that is how your going to do what you were sent to college to do: graduate.

Lana

If I could go back in time, I would tell myself to persevere when applying for scholarships. Even if you get rejected by all the scholarships you applied for, you have to fight through the depression and keep applying. There were many scholarships for high school seniors that I did not know of until now. The thought that I could have received one of those scholarships has given me insomnia for the past five days, so apply to those scholarships so that you do not have to bear the thought of letting opportunities slip away because you were depressed about the rejections. College is very expensive; you need all the help that you can get. Another advice is to step out of your comfort zone when applying to colleges. It is scary leaving your parents, nonetheless your state, but never let that force you to only apply to colleges near your home. You never know if a college thousands of miles away wants you to attend their institution on a full ride scholarship. So once again, continually apply for scholarships and to any colleges that you feel could be your new home because you will never know unless you try.

Danette

Stop taking the iron pills! You will be chronically ill for a year and a half because your body is rejecting the iron. Do not be afraid to seize all your opportunities. You should go to tennis camp. More than likely you will get a tennis scholarship. You might find the most pleasure in: dancing for Pamoja, mentoring at the Boys and Girls Club and singing. Life would be difficult without a car. Keep the car you get freshman year and do not give it away. Do not take any accounting classes! You will regret wasting you time with these classes. Do not date for fun. You will not find love and experience a lot of heartbreak if you do date for fun. Do not let Sarah move in with you. Sometimes friendships blossom better in different living spaces. Lisa Bedgood and Randy Groomes will be great mentors. Never stop networking. You will always need people from your past. Be tolerate. If you do the aforemention things college will be a breeze. Have fun!

Komran

Looking back I can remember a timid boy journeying into a vast and confusing land that he wasn't sure he'd fit into. If I was able to travel back in time I would tell myself to relax and explore. I need to tell him that the entirety of college is not centered within the pages of a textbook, and that the friends I make now can make the journey to graduation easier and perhaps my life happier when we've all grown up.

Alicia

I would go back in time and tell my high school self that I could do it. I would be sure to stress confidence in my ability to complete my school work and be successful. I would remind myself not to listen to those that say I can't do it and remember that I am strong and that I CAN do it.

Demarcreus

I would start of by telling myself to relish every moment left of high school because once it's gone there's no going back. I say that because college was one of the hardest transitions that I've ever made in my life. I would highly encourage myself to adopt positive study habits because a high school curriculum doesn't always properly prepare you for the next level. Of course, I would tell myself that college parties are fun, but I would strongly advise myself to stay focused on getting an education first above all else. Next, I would remind myself of what's important in life which includes: cherishing family while they're still around because I rarely get the chance to see them anymore, and to never forget where I came from, but to continue to push forward in life. I also would tell myself to apply for more scholarships too because I know now how hard it is for my mom to support me in college and take care of my brother and sister by herslef. Mosty importantly, I would tell myself to strengthen my relationship with GOD because he will always be there for you.

Blake

Advice given from a future self is, in earnest, the thing we all wish for when making major transitions in our life. As a high school student who is being baptized in the waters of the river of “College” it is an experience that can sometimes be as invigorating and exciting, as it is frustrating and confusing. If I were to return through time to confront my 18 year old self, I can imagine my first thoughts would be to tell him to slow down. I would do my best to explain that he should enjoy the time with his friends and really listen to what they have to say. I’d advise he attend a few more lectures and to drink less on Saturday so he can study more on Sunday. Truly though, if I had the opportunity to speak to myself I may not give away anything at all. I would simply pat myself on the back and say, “Have fun. Be safe. Everyone fails. Never give up. And everything happens for a reason.”

Matthew

If I could go back in time and speak to myself, I would have many things I would like to say. I would first say that I need to choose a college and go all four years there. I would tell myself that living on campus is a great opportunity to network with people and make friendships that will benefit me through my entire college life. I would also tell myself to get involved with more volunteer organizations and club groups on campus. The biggest piece of advice I would probably give myself is to stop procrastinating because I will never be as successful in college as I want to be. I would say, learn and enjoy all experiences and don’t take life for granted because it is too short to let opportunities pass by. Lastly, I would say don’t move in with guys named Charlie and Clint because they are nasty party animals who care nothing about their future and make studying extremely hard.

Megan

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to get involved with groups, programs, and activities on campus right away. It is the best way to meet people and being involved helps keep you focused and happy. Being involved early helps you meet people that you probably wouldn't get to know otherwise. You make so many more friends and learn so many more things when you are involved with different groups and activites. You'll be so much happier with school once you're involved so don't wait to do it. Don't be nervous about joining groups either. People are really accepting and welcoming. Start right away! It's worth it.

Martha

If I had a chance to go back to high school knowing one thing that I do now, I would not worry as much. Too much time in high school is spent worrying about college. I've finally learned that I will never "arrive". My whole life has been spent preparing for the next stage of life, consumed with anxiety of all the possible ways my future could get messed up. I have now learned that I do not have as much control over my life as I once thought I did. I have learned to live in the moment and not consistently think about what I need to do in the future. Not to say that I do not plan for things and work hard to achieve my dreams, but I am more focused on making an impact on the people around me right now rather than only working towards a degree that will eventually impact people in my future. Life is too short to waste time worrying about possibilities.

JENNIFER

One piece advice I would give to a high school senior is to take an internship before diving into a field of study. My career perspective came to a halt when become a doctor's assistant. I was new graduate with a bachelor's degree in business management. I was a mere assistant; young, optimistic and wanted to explore a different work environment, without prior expectations or intentions of going into the medical field. The learning experience lead me to develop a new passion. It was not until a special encounter with a particular patient, did I then realize my lack of medical knowledge wasn't of any true help in the office. I might have not been equipped with enough medical knowledge but the compassion we shared have opened my perspective to a true urgency to wanting to learn how to become impactful in someone's life. Going back to school to pursue a nursing degree will allow me to achieve greater medical understanding, in hopes to one day assist with answers. Furthermore, I'm grateful for my experiences but I wished that I had prior experience during college so I could clearly see the best career path.

Lexi

If I went back in time to my senior year I tell my self to use all the resources that they have on campus like tutoring and the library.Always plan ahead and get a study group going in a class that is a challenge for you. If you have a question don't be afraid to ask. I also think that its a good idea to get to know your professers becasue they like that you care abour there calss. Its also good to stay organized so you know where everything is at. Its also good not to over load your self such as if you are a full time student and also working make sure you have enough time to study becasue school is more important then work but its also good to have money. If you fell like you might be falling a class sure you know to withdrawl form is so you don't fail and your GPA doesn't go down. Its really good to take a summer calss just to keep in the routine of school. I fell like if i knew this my senior year in high school I would be farther.

Daniel

I would inform myself to pursue all oppurtunities to gain new experiences. What makes college so important to one's life is the acquisition of experiences which an individual can take with them as they tackle increasingly difficult hurdles through existence. I'd tell myself to experience all that I can, because you will come to regret things you decided to skip out on because they might be socially awkward. Along with gaining experiences, I'd advise myself to spend less time closed up in the world my ipod heaphones create and more time chatting with new individuals at bus stops as well as in dining halls. The University of Georgia is huge, there is something going on every night, and, if you aren't studying, go find an event to attend. Every second you grow older and there's no reason you should be 45 and look back on your college years with regret.

Taylor

Create a plan. Be completely sure of the path that you want to take. For almost ten years you have been dreaming of becoming a physical therapist. Now you have the opportunity to go to the Universtiy of Georgia. Explore the majors that will lead you toward that ultimate goal. Investigate what classes are required before you can apply for the major and eliminate as many core classes as you can with your AP exams. Having a plan going into college will make your class schedule less hectic. There are many people who think of the college experience as a big party all the time, but after completing my first semester, you will find that there are more people who are focusing on their academics. Stay focused on your school work because with cheerleading your schedule will get chaotic. Plan ahead and be sure to have all of your events organized. But most importantly, be yourself. Don't abandon who you are and where you have been. But seize the opportunity to meet new friends, make unforgettable memories, and enjoy the four years that you have in Athens. Have fun!

Daniel

Daniel, you have done very well in high school and have managed your time to include Varsity Lacrosse and Basketball, clubs, community service, and church activities. Your study habits have been pretty good, but mostly you have gotten by on your intellectual ability. It is important that you hone your study habits and learn how to study smarter. You need to learn how to set aside distractions and concentrate on your studies. Take advantage of tutoring opportunities and study each day as you go along. Do not wait until test time to cram. As you get to college, build relationships with your peers, teaching assistants and professors. Do not be afraid to ask questions. Seek out your professor during office hours and ask for assistance. Surround yourself with positive peers and make sure you live in an environment that is conducive to your values and your ability to focus on academics. If your living environment is not conducive to study, find that quiet place where you can get away from distractions. Most importantly, always look forward with your end goal in mind, taking advantage of every opportunity to better yourself and the world around you every day.

Aizhya

Dear Aizhya,

Chelsea

Hang on to Jesus and pray. God is so much bigger and more powerful than any situation that happens in high school. I know there has been a lot of heartbreak and betrayal, but God is the only constant through it all. While I know tomorrow seems hopeless and the darkness seems endless, there is light and He is Jesus. Even though everyone else has walked away, God is the One walking beside you in the hallway and giving you strength to get those good grades. Work hard, pray continuously, and love others, especially Jesus and the lost or ignored. When people think of you later in life, make sure it'll be a smile instead of a frown. You know what it feels like to feel lonely and harassed; reach out and make sure no one will remember you as the one who initiated it. Stand up for what's right, be loyal, and always smile. We have an eternal promise that is not dependent on the circumstances in life or the bad or good choices we make. Find God's beauty, promise, and love in all that you see. That will give you joy when nothing else will.

Zoe

The number one thing I would want to tell my high school self is that things will get better. All the hardships and bullying no longer matter after you leave those doors for the last time. Surviving high school can be one of the hardest things you'll ever endure but as long as you're successful in your high school endeveors everything will come together in the future. The only thing you need in high school is self confidence and strength. Don't be afraid of the future or the past, as long as you make everyday count your future will come together exactly how you want it to. The voices and memories of high school still haunt me, but they made me who I am, and for that I am grateful. Surviving the hardships of high school will make you a better person, that's one thing you dont have to worry about.

Emily

Knowing what I know now about college, I would tell myself to learn effective study habits. I would also tell myself to not let distractions get in the way of my school work. One thing I regret about my first semester at the University of Georgia is that I did not put myself out there more. I am a member of a sorority, but I am not as talkative with others as I told myself I would be once I got to college. I also regret not studying more for some of my classes, and not teaching myself valuable study habits. I wish I had better researched some of my professors, because I might have had a better first semester. Also, I wish I could tell myself to go into college with an Undecided major. After changing my major three times within the first semester, I learned that I am still finding myself, but that's okay. I would tell myself that by going to college, I would discover would I was supposed to be for the rest of my life, and that it's okay not to have everything figured out right away.

Shubam

Dear "High School Me," Looking back at senior year, I now realize what exactly I should have done differently. Above all, I would tell you to apply for more scholarships and really dig into the vast array of opportunities offered all over. There are so many scholarships available and so many cool internships, summer programs, etc that you should have participated in. And these programs, although academically focused, seem to provide a lot more than just some more book knowledge; they give you a chance to learn some hands-on knowledge and really dive into your interested field head first. I would also advise you to really chase after your passion of cooking and baking so much more because of the fact that you have much more time in the high school days than college to really pursue it. With your free time, learn how to make some cool dishes, and even create some of your own recipes. I would even tell you to perfect a dish and find a food contest and enter! Above all, however, you should remember that life goes on no matter what. Never give up and keep your dreams alive, always.

Sarah

There are only two things I would tell my high school self. First, I would tell myself to never take out loans! Currently, I am paying off $50,000 worth of loans. I worked throughout college and had my tuition covered by the HOPE Scholarship. I only needed about $5,000 for my first year of college to cover my dorm and meal plan. Still, I thought loans were necessary and thought everyone had them. This was the biggest mistake I made. I now enjoy learning about money and investing and wish I had this passion when I was in high school. I would also tell my high school self to get involved in organizations as soon as possible. I had a boyfriend who lived in another state and the relationship made me more introverted than I usually was. Before my sophomore year, we broke up and I became involved with campus groups. I have made friends for life because of these organizations. If I had this advice while in high school, I would have more money available to meet up with my friends I met in school!

Jessica

I would tell my younger self to take more college classes while still in high school. College takes work and I would have loved the opportunity to take more than the six hours of college classes and the one advanced placement class that I took part in. Also, I would tell myself to have more fun, life is short, and I spent too much time worrying about the future instead of spending time with my friends. Yes, grades are important but so is making friends and taking the time to enjoy the activities offered at the time. I do not regret how I spent my high school time, I enjoyed many aspects of high school life, but I do wish I had taken the time to enjoy certain things just a little bit more.

Jamima

There are many things in life that seem worth your time, but they are not. You will be distracted by insignificant activities and desires, but what is important will be your calling. Try your best in school, and never let enough be your goal. It is better to achieve a goal and let go of it than to regret overlooking it. Dream big because being rational is overrated when there are so many opportunities available. I thought having a stable and coveted career would make me happy, but my motivation fell short. I found my calling to be a teacher to those in North Korea who do not have the same opportunities as I did in America. Study abroad to experience different cultures. Keep an open mind, and never limit yourself to the ways of society. Life is full of uncomfortable situations but it is when you keep going that you can change your attitude in life. Today, I can say I am grateful for my education, my study abroad experience, and even my hardships in life. I am motivated to do what I am called for, and that is what really counts in an education.

Leah

The most important thing to me would be to focus more on getting more scholarships. I never been rich and I assumed that the combination of the government funds and HOPE would pay for my education. I soon came to a realization when I began college. There are so many expenses that I have to pay for and I regret that I am now in debt. However, everything is a learning experience and it is never too late to change. Now I have been trying to get many scholarships so that I don't put myself further into debt. I would also tell a younger me to be true to yourself. Coming into college, you will get lost amongst the never ending crowd if you're trying to "fit in." Individuality is the only thing that will set you apart. I lost a lot of my time trying to be like everyone else instead of being myself. As aforementioned, everything is a learning experience and since I realized this fact I have never been the same; I always express my individuality. Though I wish I could go back, I'm thankful for my mistakes because I'm a better person.

Bree

It is okay if you don't know you're major going into the school. You will not be left behind or graduate later because you are not sure. Joining clubs and participating in career fairs are the ways to figure out what you want to do with your life. Also a career counselor can be you're best friend. I had no idea what i wanted to do, but after I joined clubs with people who share a similar love for whatever it was, I had a lightbulb go off on me. I am more focused now than ever and excited for what the future has in stores. Joining clubs is not only good to meet people, its an awesome thing to add to your resume. This brings up my next point, BUILD UP YOUR RESUME starting freshman year! It'll be the best decision of your life.

Ryanna

I would tell myself to begin applying for scholarships much earlier. The most daunting task is paying for college. Once that is accomplished the stress becomes far less pungent. I would also tell myself to focus more on studying for tests since they account for so much more of your grade than they do in high school. On top of that I would inform my former self to be more open to asking for helping and accepting it when I needed it, as well as taking advantage of available tutoring. I should also warn myself about how homesick I will be and how much of my stuff I don’t have to take with me because it won’t fit in my dorm room. I would advise myself to not give up my car to my parents because I realized too late that it is incredibly limiting to the college experience and it stifles independence. The most important thing I would say would be to not become disparaged when I didn’t make new friends immediately because college is a new type of environment and it is harder to make friends there.

Kyandra

Dear Kyandra, You should probably put down your guitar, spend less time worrying about how to become a successful street gypsy, and read your AP Biology homework, since you are planning to go to college and all. Actually, scratch that—keep the guitar and gypsy idea and just incorporate the bio homework (finals will be much easier.) Moving to college is an interesting transition, so here’s what you should know—You don’t have to bring your entire life to your dorm. Reasons for this: 1)Your roomate has half the room. Respect her, her space, her things, and her time. 2)The “room” is half of half of of half your room now, so really, don’t bring it all. It will not fit. Also, remember how the first day of sixth grade felt? For the first time you had lockers, class change, multiple teachers, and you were really, actually, factually a big girl? This is like that, times ten. Venture out, join study groups, clubs, leanr the campus, and like I always say, “Hey now, chin up, be brave, it’s a wonderful time for being that way.” Best wishes, ya hippie.

Frida

A little over a year ago, my AP Literature teacher gave us our last assignment of the year. Write a letter to yourself. Not too long ago, I received that letter in the mail. Don't give up on your dreams, I had written to my future self, you have already achieved the biggest one of them: getting accepted and enrolling at the University of Georgia. Although wise words from a seventeen year old who hadn't lived outside the bubble of High School, there is much I was still naive about. There is a lot I should have known before going off into the real world. A fair warning to my senior self: Along with going off to college comes responsibility. A lot of the decision making will be done alone. You'll meet people, some will come to be the light amongst the darkness and some will dissappoint you. Don't let that get in the way of your happiness. Chanel yourself into your school work, and most importantly, balance and prioritize. It's not impossible to fit studying and sleep into your schedule, while allowing yourself to have a social life. You only get one freshman year.

Shanakay

Be strong and confident college is not so hard as long as you apply yourself and do the very best that you can. Always ask for help and listen to what some people have to say, even if it does not sound helpful. Go over what you have learned at least three times a day. Do what you think is best for you not what people want you to do. Be a little more open minded of people and take as many test's as you can to get your scores higher. Many people will come into your life to guide you on your college journey so take the guidence and follow them. Be patient with yourself and with the many different teacher's. Do as much extra activity as you can to meet new people, and don't forget to have fun along the way. Also remember who you are and remember the person you want to be in the next five, ten, and even fifteen years from now.

Natalie

Throughout life, I have had my share of lazy moments. Entering college has given me a huge reality check and although I am doing great things at UGA, there is something I would have done differently. In high school, I always received speeches about the importance of taking Advanced Placement courses. I was knowledgeable of the fact that I could get college credit, but never took the idea seriously. I signed up for my first AP course my sophomore year of high school and ended the course with an A, but did not want to take the AP test. My senior year of high school, I took AP Government and Macroeconomics. I also received A's in both courses, but only took the AP test for Macroeconomics. Today, I am faced with the struggle of taking all of my AP courses again. I always think back and regret my decision because not only would I have gained credit for a class, but I also would have saved a lot of money. I am now always stressing to high school students the importance of taking AP courses seriously so they will not make the same mistakes I did.

Marina

Dear Me, You are looking towards graduating and a bright future. You're still looking in a bright future, don't worry! Truth is, you are a different person. In a few short months you have learned so much! Please, high school senior me, listen to your older self. Do listen to your parents. They know what they are talking about. Dedicate yourself more to the scholarship search. Financial worries are going to stress you out in a few short months. Get involved in ??. You will wish you were a more active member. Do not hang out with that guy. He is a creep. You just don't know it yet. Don't take French. It sucks. Stick with Spanish. A 3.01 is your 1st semester GPA. Not bad, but it could have been better. Study. You aren't going to BFF with your roomie. Church is going to be your favorite. Make time for your family and friends. Brad is actually going to stick around. Be nice to him. Never forget who you are. I promise you'll be proud. Finally, Don't let life rain on your parade. You are going to be okay.

alie

I would first tell my high school self to take AP Biology! It would have been really nice for that to have been out of the way when I entered college. I would also tell myself to get prepared to branch out and make a lot of new friends, fast. In college, you meet so many different people from different walks of life. It's okay to forget names, but make sure to say hello when you see a familiar face because you probably met that person a few days or even hours ago. I would advise myself to not lose sight of who I really am. A lot of people forget who they were or where they came from when they start college. I know this is a different season of life, but you should always hang on to your roots. With all of that said, I would tell myself to most importantly to try new things, have fun, and hang on for a wild ride!

Emily

I would tell myself to not be afraid to make new friends. Just talking to people in the dining hall, going to a concert downtown, or just introducing yourself to the person next you on the bus. Also, to not be afraid to talk to your professors. They are there to help you. If you are having trouble or aren't doing as well as you would like, talk to them and work something out! I would also tell my high school self to apply for many more scholarships. Money is hard to come by and you will be so thankful for that extra money when your sophomore year in college comes around. Apply, apply and apply some more. Lastly I would say don't be afraid to make mistakes. Life is about learning so don't be afraid to mess up. You'll learn some important things about yourself and maybe even have a funny story to tell your children about one day. Just don't be afraid to live your college experience to the fullest.

jessica

Prepare now for you college education. The grades you make in high school and the scores you have on your SAT and ACT exams will be the keys to your educational future. Make the time to take some classes on how to improve your study habits and communication skills. Having a better understanding of how to study will ensure that you make better grades. Evaluate your priorities. Gaining a higher education is necessary in today’s job market.

Morgan

I would tell myself to enjoy life in high school as long as you can and to spend time with your friends and family. Once you get to college, time flies by and you realize how important family is. The transition is not an easy one but it gets better with time. One good piece of advice is to put yourself out there and to make the best of your situations. Make a point to introduce yourself to people in your classes because they will become your lifelong friends. Another good piece of advice is to focus on time management. It is a good thing to work on while you are in high school because you have to know how to do it once you get to college. Once you are in college, you have so much free time and you have to be able to divide your time between school work and other activities.

Stacey

Do not decide to work for a year or two, go ahead and finish school. This would have made studying and life in general a whole lot easier. I know that working seemed important, but if you would have gone straight to school, look how much further in your nursing career you would have been today. Keep setting small, short term goals to make it to your ultimate goal! Study hard, be a positive role models to yourself and others that are close, and never lose faith in yourself!

Skyler

Knowing what I know now, I probably would have gone to a smaller school first, then transferred into the University of Georgia. I would have told myself to take a lighter course load than I did during my first semester, so I could focus more on community service and integrating myself more into the Athens community. I would definitely have told myself to stay as far away as possible from the Chemistry department at UGA, because they made my first year of school absolutely miserable. I should have spent less time worrying over Chemistry and spending all of my time studying for a class where my efforts did not correlate with my final grade in the class. I would tell myself to stop being so shy and actually get out and make some friends.

Kelsey

Taylor Swift sang it best when she said, “Even though you want to just try to never grow up.” Now that I am in college, I find myself looking back on my high school years more. Senior year was hands down one of the best years of my life. I had so much fun, but I always found myself looking forward to the future. Although I was enjoying myself, I was always looking forward to the next exciting thing happening & not taking in what was happening at the moment. Now, I look back in regret on all of the fun that I missed out on because I was never fully living in the moment. My advice would be to live in the moment. Take time to really appreciate what happens at the current moment. Spend time with the ones that you love because who knows how much longer they will be around. Most importantly, don’t rush growing up. Take your time being a kid. Enjoy the freedom of being young because it will be gone before you know it. “Just try to never grow up.”

Anastasia

The very first thing I would do If I could go back to the days of my high school senior year would be to apply to as many scholarships as I could get my hands on. College is stressfull enough without having to take out loans and figuring out how to pay for expensive books each semester. Maintaing a high GPA while working is much harder in college than it is in high school. I would also start putting together some sort of structure to my dialy schedule between school work and social activities. It seems that once you start college you have all of this newly found free time without limitations or restrictions, the last thing you feel like doing is five plus hours of school work. Procrastination may have gottn you through high school but it will never cary you through college. I would have definetly taken more Advanced Placement (AP) classes. While AP classes may seem like a dent in your easy senior year, it pays off to have the credit you obtain from them in college. You can end the first semester of your freshman year as a college sophomore.

Wendell

BE YOURSELF. Hold your own. You can do it. Campus will seem big at first, but I promise once you find your friends and get used to the academics life will be so much easier.

Loreal

I was silly and I procrastinated a lot back in high school (probably had a lot to do with how time consuming AP Chemistry was) and I didn't apply to a lot of Scholarships in time. I would tell my high school self to stop putting it off! Get those scholarship applications done now or you'll have to accept student loans which you may or may not be able to pay off once you graduate college! Money will be an issue! Your dad, though he told you you weren't going to have to worry about money once you got into college, is going to give you a hard time about having to pay for your textbooks! Don't be lazy, just do it and the sooner you do it, the better! I would also tell myself to be extremely, extremely careful about who you choose to be your roommate. They may come off as nice and sweet at first but once you live with them, it's a completely different story. Try to get to know your roommate really well before you move in so you can change roommates if you need to! Be careful.

Jessica

If I could go back in time and speak to myself as a rising high school senior, I would advise myself to not be so nervous before going to college! I would tell myself that even though a large university seems intimidating, not to be worried because it will be one of the best experiences of my life. The people are so freindly at the University of Georgia, and the first week will be a lot to take in, but that I will get through it unscathed. Most importantly I would tell myself to relax, have fun, and to meet as many new freinds as possible because they are also as imtimidated as I was.

Mellisa

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to get involved, to be more active in sports , and to study more for A.P. tests. Getting involved is a very important aspect of college and high school. By becoming more active in student organization you are able to find more opportunities to meet people and to have a bigger effect on your local community. Similar benefits go along with being active in sports. It is very necessary for our students to understand the importance of being active; by playing sports students are able to not only able to be healthier but they are also able to grasp the talents they have to the fullest. By starting physical activity when you are young, it will only be easier to keep that level of activity as you grow older. Finally, advance placement tests are very important. By working hard and studying, you have the possibility to exempt out of many college courses. This can potentially save you thousands of dollars on tuition and save you a lot of time to focus on other required courses.

kimberly

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YESENIA

I would have told myself so many things if i could go back when i was a senior. I can remember not knowing what i wanted to do with my future and feeling lost in the world as it moved foward. I would say not to be scared and not to mess up because education is valuable and can get you too many places in life. I am a teenage mother and was scared of it at the time, now i see with education i am fine and will have a better future for me and my family. seeing i was immature,self-concious,and with low self-esteem i would encourage my self to change that sooner than i did. I believe everything happens for a reason ,so no matter if i listened to myself from someone in the future i would still have followed the same footsteps i did. For one great reason if i did not do all the things i did, i would not be a strong,independent Coleege student as i am today.

Blondine

Listen up Blondine! Here are some words of wisdom that will help you survive college. I know that high school came easily to you, but college is a totally new game. First, know that you are in fact smart enough to succeed, but are you willing? There will be plenty of times when your dreams will consist of chemistry and those crazy solubility rules! All of this is only for a time though, so do not lose heart as you diligently pursue your dreams. Your parents worked so hard so that you can have the education that they could not have. As you are working hard, please don’t forget to have a little fun, and do what you love to do. Remember your love to volunteer, meet new people and above all remember your love for God. Trust Him at all times, knowing that He WILL grant you peace whenever the stress of finals rolls around, or when your crazy, but oh so loveable, friends needs you. College is all about balance, learning that balance will take trial and error, so get ready. Love always, Your future self Blondine Dieujuste The University of Georgia

Kristina

If I could go back, I would tell myself to be myself. It sounds a bit ridiculous, but I have found that in college, it is important to stay true to yourself. It is so easy to follow the footsteps of others when pressured to fit in, but if it is not something you believe in or anything you really want to do, don't! Do what you like to do, find your niche. Even if it is sitting around for a while discussing classic movies with random people over some coffee. Be who you are, because trying to be someone you're not is pretty miserable. I would also tell myself to take classes seriously. High school may have been a breeze for you, sister, but you can't get the help you did in high school with 300 other classmates. You must actually read the textbook, and learn for yourself a lot of times. Go to class and balance your social life with your academics. It prevents the worry, cramming, and actually can free up some of your time later if you let it!

Heather

Make the time after high school and the transition into life count. Education is the path to what makes life special. Open your mind and heart to learn all you can about as many things as you can. Education is the tool to opening doors and providing opportunities for success. Life is hard even in the best of circumstances. By arming yourself with knowledge and how to seek out the answers to life's questions along the way, all things are possible! You are limited only by your lack of knowledge. Life is what you choose to make it. The more prepared you are, the more likely your success. Knowledge is power! Arm yourself with life's most powerful weapon - education! "Give a man a fish, he'll eat for a day. Teach a man to fish, he'll eat for a lifetime."

Anna

Just because you can not do homework or study now and pull out a A+ doesn't mean that will always work. College is tough but it's worth it. It will get you where you want to be in life. So study hard but play harder. The key to success in the classroom is success in the rest of your life. Don't let anyone tell you that you can't do something. Never back down or withdraw from your beliefs and standards. Standing up and speaking out for what is right does not make you a coward but keeping quiet does. Take a walk through campus and just enjoy the scenary and the smells and sounds, you will appreciate it later. And finally listen to your professors-they actually know what they are talking about and seek out as much help and advice from them as possible. They are willing to help, you just have to ask :)

Rebecca

College life requires you to have great time management and great work ethic. Don't get caught up on little set-backs and keep the big picture in mind. In time, you realize that this overall experience is wonderful and college is everything you wanted and more.