University of Portland Top Questions

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

Matthew

Enjoy the time you have with friends and family at home. Get ready for a different life, new friends, new classes, and a completely new environment. This school is not very diverse, so get ready to see a lot more caucasians than you are used to seeing. Do not be shy in making friends. Feel comfortable, the first friends you make may not be your best friends, but just keep talking to people and you can make some amazing friendships. Also, be adventurous. You do not have a car, so you have to make the most of campus. Climb some trees, even though you are not supposed to, go down to the river to relax, and say yes to every good opportunity. Keep an open mind, but be confident in yourself. However, at the same time, sometimes you just have to stick up for what you believe in, keeping an open mind does not mean letting others corrupt you. Do not look back on regrets, move forward, so many more opportunities will come, just be ready.

Payton

If I could travel back in time to when I was a high school senior I would tell myself develop a study strategy that works. When I started college classes my high school study strategies didn't work with the college curriculum. College is much more heavily focused on reading and I had a hard time comprehending some of my textbooks earlier on this year. If I could go back I would work on finding a reading strategy that allowed me to comprehend material that was dense and hard to read. Along with this strategy I would develop a strategy that helped me to review my readings and notes more productively because college is very busy. If I had practiced more college focused study strategies in high school my transition would have been smoother and would have allowed for a less stressful first few months of college.

Samuel

I would tell myself first and foremost to get to know yourself as best as you possibly can. Once you hit college hundreds of opportunities will be thrown at you and everyone will be telling you to sign up for anything and everything. It would have been so helpful for me to have been able to make reasonable choices on what and what not to do. Obvioulsy you will change as the years go by in college, but if you have the insight and discernment to be able to distinguish from you and not so you, it will make all the difference in your first semesters. With that being said I would also tell myself to not hold back. With so much going on it can be hard to give your all in anything. I wish I could've given my all to what I'm passionate in so much earlier, because it will give you so much joy in your life.

Megan

If I could give advice to myself as a senior in high school, I would tell myself to apply for as many scholarships as possible, to give serious consideration to what I wanted to do as a professional career, and, most importantly to develop good study habits. I would tell myself to apply for as many scholarships as possible because I discovered that after high school, it becomes significantly more difficult to find scholarships, it seems, and there's no harm in applying. I would give more consideration to what I wanted to do with my career because being an undeclared major is stressful, and I think it's better to pursue an interest and make a decision after having previous exposure. The most important thing that I would tell myself is to develop good study habits. In high school, material seemed to come to me more easily and the fact that there is signifantly less pressure. When I got to college, I got a C in General Chemistry in my first semester because I didn't know how to study or take the class seriously. I eventually developed good habits, but that C is now weighing down my GPA .

Erin

Alone. I have spent a lot of time alone. Making friends in high school was easy for me. Cheerleader, lead in the musical, homecoming queen. These are all titled a beared. Going into college, my identity was different; I was no longer all of the things I once thought I was. When I leaped into a university, I had trouble making friends, because it wasn't something I was necessarily used to doing. It was difficult to form relationships, because I'd never really had to. Going back, I would not spend so much time alone. I would go out of my way to talk to people, make connections, and learn about their lives. I would leave my dorm room, get involved in some activites, and stop worrying about the finances of it all. I would advise to be fully present in the moment - don't look back at the good times, and don't look to far ahead with plans and stress. Live in the here and now and get out there and live.

Emma

My best advice if I could go back in time to high school would be a gentle reminder that it is okay to be homesick. I always heard people saying that homesickness would be a problem that I would need to deal with, but I never thought that it would actually affect me. It was not until I was about to drop out of college at the end of my first semester because I wanted to go home that I realized just how easy it is to become homesick without even realizing it. Not only is it easy, homesickness is also totally natural and fine. Change is not easy for everyone, and learning that I am a person who really dislikes change was more a great learning experience for myself, rather than a miserable time.

Regan

Looking back on my senior year of high school as a current college freshman, I would tell myself to appreciate lazy days way more. Don't get me wrong; in college, you will still watch copious amounts of Netflix and go to class in sweat pants, but the work load is so much more than anything given in high school. You may have fewer classes in college, yet the amount of studying you must do to outside of class in order to succeed is crazy! While you're procrastinating and watching that next episode on Netflix, you have a feeling that is a mix of guilt, shame and stress looming over you for every minute your textbooks stay closed and your papers aren't typed. Those lazy days in high school when you come home and have no homework are very few and far between in college and should NEVER be taken for granted!

Chelsea

Chelsea, College is amazing. You never thought you would like school did you? Well, you do now. You never thought you would find something you're passionate about did you? Well, you have and it's business. You never thought you would find a career did you? Well, youre on track to do so. You never thought you would fit in did you? Well, you're on track to be a residence hall community assistant and leader. You're involved in an immersion trip, and are helping lead events for that. You never thought you would do well in your classes did you? Well, youre doing better than you and everyone else expected. You didnt want to go to school? You are, and you're loving it...

Kayla

If I could flash back to a year ago I would make sure I knew how important it is to make friends. As you transition to college life it can be lonely, and having a good group of friends helps you make the transition. I would also tell myself that college is not as scary as I thought. Professors care about you and how you are doing in there class; they are not out to get you. I would make sure I knew that homework is a lot of reading, and make sure you read because you will be quizzed weekly. And my final piece of advice would be to get a job even if it is on campus. Having your own money to spend and save (to put towards the abundant amount tuition is).

Quyen

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to choose the college, which is the most appropriate to my career and financial need, rather than the one that is popular to people. Having education is important, but it does not depend on the popularity of the college. Colleges only provide the basic knowledge for you to start your career in life. The important thing is how you learn and take from it. Therefore, it is not worth to put yourself in debt for something that doesn't guarantee your own future.

Alyson

There is no point to stressing out about every little detail. You may not win every scholarship and you may not get into your dream school, but as long as you stay dedicated to your goals and true to yourself things will work out. The school you attend will do their best to insure you can afford you can go there. So do not worry so much about the finacial aspect and focus on going to the place that will make you happy whether that is a university, community college, trade school, or work. Everything will work out. Keep a clear mind and always remember to do what makes you happy regardless of the sacrifices it might take.

Goshina

If I could sit across myself as a high school student, I would advise myself to welcome change as opposed to resisting it. In high school, I truly believed that I knew everything I needed to about myself. The stubbornness and ignorance that can stem from this level of pride can be damaging to one’s character before it evens gets a chance to develop. As I noticed my interests changing, I turned the other cheek. I didn’t realize that change is quite a rewarding experience. Allowing yourself to change is key in self-discovery, and this is a life-long process. This form of flexibility is part of having a strong sense of self, though the opposite may seem to be true. The world is constantly changing, and we must not stay stagnant, or we risk falling behind. A wise man by the name of George Bernard Shaw said that “the reasonable man adapts himself to the world; the unreasonable one persists in trying to adapt the world to himself. Therefore, all progress depends on the unreasonable man.” George Bernard Shaw was onto something; a concept that every young adult should be introduced to early on.

Cuiping

If I can go back in time, I would like to tell myself not to worry about anything external factors and fo apply every school that I want. Even though some school that you think you will not be able to get in, but just apply anyway. At least then you will have no regrets in your later life time, gave it an ending to your dream. Failure to get in to your dream school isnot ashame, what is embrasses is the regretion that you do not even have the courage to try. This not only applying to the process of applying colleges, but also to anything in life. We shall have the courage to try and fail because now I believe that failures are a beautiful experience in life that we will refer back in our old age. Which those memories and experiences are what created us to be where we are in the old age.

Madison

Love every minute of being surrounded by your childhood friends. College is a new world, and even though high school seems so long, it's not. That said, I would advice myself to have applied for more scholarships. College is not cheap, and every application that you turn in can make a difference. Overall I would have adviced myself to cherish the memories I made in high school and be ready to make new ones.

John

Getting one major scholarships doesn't cut it, apply for more scholarships. Always be prepared to work in groups, and volunteer even more than you did. Volunteering is huge in college.

Molly

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to relax and to trust myself and my abilities. As my senior year of high school ended I was filled with an incredible excitement that could'nt be contained. I was ready for the next phase of my life. However, this excitement was mixed with nervousness. There were so many things that I was unsure of or that I thought would go wrong in college. I had an image of what my life would be like for the next four years and I was scared that college would not meet my expectations. However, now that I have gone through the transition of graduating and starting my undergraduate studies, my advice would be to relax. Expectations should be thrown out the window. Instead of expecting certain things or being nervous, my advice is to live each moment and be as present as possible. To do this, I wish I could go back and tell myself to trust in who I know I am and in my abilities to lead the life that I want to lead.

Yurenia

Now that I’m armed with the knowledge of what to expect from college, some advice I would have given myself would be, “Yuri, give yourself time.” Learn to be patient and not expect for everything to be perfect the first week. Take time to make friends, see what you like and get involved; pursue deep friendships. Don’t be afraid to get to know your professors, they are there to help you succeed. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and take advantage of their office hours; it shows you care about their class and your grades. Most importantly, remember that your main priority is your education. Before deciding to go out exploring your new surroundings, make sure your homework is completed and that you have taken the time to study. I would tell myself to remember that freshman year can be one of the best years of your life if you go into it with the right attitude and a light heart. Take chances, step outside your comfort zone, make long lasting friendships, work hard, and above all become the success you deserve to be. College opens many doors for your career and personal life, chase after them.

Matt

I would tell myself to relax. I would tell myself that everything will work out the way that it is supposed to. There are more important things than grades in life. I was 12th in my class of 273 people and I got into a lot of really good schools, but I wish I would have had more fun in high school and let loose a little more. I would also encourage myself to appreciate those closest to myself. Now that I am here at the University, I realize how important family and friends are as a support system. When I am having mental breakdowns or I have way too much to do and am stressing about it, those are the people that I call because I know I can rely on them. Family is the most important thing you have and it's important to be there for them so that they can be there for you. I would tell myself to have my priorities straight. Make time for family and friends, but don't lose sight of your goal or what you are trying to accomplish. Don't settle for anything and keep believing in yourself.

Teresa

I would advise my high school-self to take advantage of all the opportunities that interest me as soon as I arrive on campus. When I first got to college, I didn't make an effort to get involved in activities on campus right away because I was too concerned about my academic studies and wasn't sure if I would be able to handle extra-curriculars as well. As a result, I feel as though I missed out on a lot of opportunities that I would have enjoyed and friendships that I would have made. Now, however, I am involved in so many ways on campus and I constantly seek out more opportunities. Although this makes me much busier, it causes me to be much more efficient with my time. More importantly, it gives me a break from my studies and allows me to participate in activities that I love.

Mara Ann

If I could tell my high school self one thing, it would to never be afraid to be open, to be vulnerable, to new experiences. Coming from high school, where people tended to have a specific group of friends and acitivities, it can be overwhelming to come to college, where there are hundreds of opportunities. But all those opportunities are for growth; they can help you to learn so much about yourself. It's ok to try new activities, and not hang out with the same people all the time. Do the things you love, and show love and appreciation for your friends, but never be afraid or closed off to new chances. You can never know whether a new club, a new set of people, or even a class that is out of your major or comfort zone can affect your worldview, your identity, and your life in a positive way.

Chloe

Dear past self. I know what you're thinking: how on Earth can I be talking to my future self? But just listen for a moment, because this is important. First semester of college is going to be tough, but don't give up. Remember that you're doing this for you, not your parents. They love you very much but they aren't always right and they don't always know what's best for you. Just focus on doing your best- and it doesn't matter if they think your best has to be an A, because it won't always be. It's okay to get B's, as long as you do your best. And only you know what your best is. As long as you're learning, mistakes aren't failures. And, most importantly, do what YOU want to do. This is about your life, your future. So don't let anyone else hold you back. Follow your dreams. You'll stumble a bit, but as long as you keep going, it's a win. So enjoy your time in college- it'll go by fast. But remember that the best is yet to come.

Hayley

I would give myself a few pieces of advice. The first regarding the college process as I was incredibly hesitant to attend a university that was affiliated with a religion as I did not want a religion forced on me. I have discovered that religious affiliations do not matter and are rather a bonus that put an influence on the university to do all that it can to bring their students success, just as mine has. Secondly, I would tell my high school self that making solid friendships is a lot more difficult to do, especially after maintaining only a few for years. I went to a school where I did not know anyone going in and I’m still trying to find a couple of solid, lets-spend-time-together friends. Lastly, I would tell myself to take as many duel credit and AP classes as possible because they are a thousand times cheaper than paying for them during college.

Abigail

You have absolutely no idea what’s ahead of you. Yes, it’s amazing, but there are also hardships. For instance, even though you think you won’t get homesick, you will. You will also be dealing with all-nighters, last minute cramming before a test, and yes, the inevitable final exams. But do you know what? It’s worth it because you are going to make a difference. So ignore every single person who has told you you’re not good enough, that you’re not going anywhere, and that you need to change because you don’t! You are going to be the change you want to see, not the change others want you to be! College is a place for new adventures; this is the time in your life to truly dream. Anything you set your mind to you can do as long as you don’t let anything else hinder your longing for a better tomorrow.

Darielle

At first, you are going to hate it. You are going to miss your parents, your family, and your home. But as the days go on, you'll realize you are now an adult. You are entirely responsible for your actions. You are going to realize there is a bigger purpose for all of this. The transition gets easier and by the time you know it, you have adjusted. There are times when you want to go home and quit, but remember the reasons and the sacrifices made for you. Make friends and surround yourself with people who will make you forget about being sad. Don't be afraid to ask your professors or upperclassmen for help. Try new experiences, join some clubs, and don't overwork yourself. The workload may seem like a lot, but trust me, it is not impossible. College is a time for new changes, so do not be afraid to make them. Yes, it will be horrible at first. But with time, friends, and a few Facetime calls home, you will be able to get through it.

MADDISON

I would tell myself not to be so timd and get out there to do something that you usually would never do. I would explain that college is very different from high school and it won't be a drag everyday. If you take step outside your box you will end meeting people who will change your life and learn to enjoy life again. I would also explain that if you are given an opportunity take it, these are the time you will never get back so you might as well as make to the most out of it. I also make it clear that this is the chance you have been wanting, that you are finally away from everything so just do your best and at the end of the day you will be happy.

Marcella

Well well, look at you. You eat three square meals a day, you go to bed no later than 10:30 on weekdays, and you get in class homework time. Love it. Eat it up (literally if it's homemade food, because you'll miss that one for sure), soak it all in and bask in a world where you're topping off a solid foundation, taking enjoyable classes and living the good life at the top of the high school food chain. Embrace the freedom to slack off on that one homework assignment a little, and don't stress out so much about tests that make up less than twenty five percent of your grade. Enjoy the last year, but don't worry so much about which school you like, don't worry so much about leaving home. Yeah, it won't be that easy, but at the end of the day when you're choming down on the same salad you've had three days in a row while working on physics homework, you'll come to an important realization - you will be okay.

Ashira

I would tell myself that college is much better and harder than highschool. You get to choose when you have class and for the most part what classes you can take. You buy your own food and are able to get a job on campus. I would advise myself to be more social with other students and be able to ask questions in class. Or at least use office hours if needed. I would also have advised myself not to spend so much time in my room watching tv and listening to music. I would advise myself that college is much more time consuming than high school ever was and therfore I would focus more on studying. I would have also advised myself to take breaks in between tasks rather than trying to crame 40 pages of reading into an hour. The most important piece of advice I would give my highschool self is to be more confident in my ability to succeed and never let anyone put me down.

Catharine

To the young and naive Catie, I know you went through a lot your senior year of high school. You were focused on so many other things, go into some trouble, had a lot of fun and you knew you were going to go to college no matter what. You were already accepted into UP in December! And trust me, it'll be awful for the first few months. You're moving from gorgeous sunny Southern California to well, to the Pacific Northwest. The two things you need to know the most is that you are going to do just fine in Portland. You'll make some amazing friends and truly find a good path to follow. However, study hard, focus on those studies and fight for financial aid. Those are your biggest worries, do not brush them aside. Work hard for scholarships, study hard and remember you'll love it.

Amanda

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, i would tell myself to stop being overconfident. As a high school senior, I graduated at the top of my class, I was an International Baccalaureate Diploma Candidate and I also earned a high school diploma in music. As a result, I believed that I was overly prepared for college and that the first year of college would be a piece of cake. However, by the middle of the first semester of college, I realized that because of my cockiness, I had slacked off in my studies and was not doing as well as I could be doing. This led me scrambling to pick up my grades and my stress-level drastically increased. Although I still managed to finish the semester with a decent GPA (3.73), it would have been much less stressful and my GPA would have been much higher if I was not overconfident about my academic abilities.

Serenity

For me, I was always a very determined student when it came to academics but I would advise my high school self to plan ahead better. I would say to think more about the future and what college was right for me rather than leaving the decision until the last minute. I would say to apply for as many scholarships and grants as possible because money can make all the difference in your education past high school. Since I didn't focus as much on scholarships as I should have, I now have taken out the maximum amount of loans that I can and may not be able to afford the school of my choice after my freshman year. Also, I would say to be open to new experiences and know that it is okay to be away from home because there will be many new people there to support you and you can always visit home. Going away for college is the best decision you could make and trying more new things wouldn't hurt. Join clubs and go to school events to meet new people and you'll never be alone.

Jessica

Be willing to put yourself out there; whether that is in class, meeting new people or networking in your professional field. In high school it is so easy to get caught up in what's cool or not cool, who you are supposed to be friends with, etc., but don't let that carry over into college. College is great oppotunity to meet and socialize with people you may have never come into contact with otherwise. Utilize this oppotunity to learn about other cultures, traditions, professional interests, hobbies, or whatever it may be, and then take that information and use it for your own personal developement and growth. Dont ever overlook someone just because they don't fit into the catagory of who you typically would be friends with. Every single individual has something unique and valuable that they can bring to the table, including yourself. Be someone who looks for that value in other people and you might be surpised what you learn about yourself as well along the way. Best of luck!

Linda

It doesn't matter what the name of the school is. Don't try to get into an Ivy League (or something similarily competitive), it'll be a waste of your time, tears, and money because in the end we all get the same degree that does the same things. The only thing that is different is the amount of money spent and quality of education you get. If you go to a public university or somewhere that's considered "easier", that's cool. It might even be better, just make sure to make the most of your education and experience. Make the learning experience top notch even if the school is not. And most of all, you don't have to be a doctor or be a bio major! Realize early on if you are a good fit for your major and will succeed, and make the right adjustments! Don't be afraid to ask for help and admit you need a lot of it, otherwise you'll fail some classes. Don't get too distracted (with boys)! Discipline yourself, learn how to study early on, have fun, don't lose your smile.

Marissa

In all honesty, college students’ lives are unnecessarily complicated. My advice to you? In order to make the smoothest transition into college, be uncomplicated. The best way to do that is to take advantage of your resources. You’re going to a place where every professor, faculty member, staff member, every administrator is set and ready to help you succeed at their university. Even upperclassmen get in on the action. Please please please do not be reluctant to ask for help. Going about any problem by yourself can be so much more difficult than necessary. There are people near you who’s jobs are to solve your problems and make your transition, and life, much easier. Please, take advantage of whatever help you can find, because it will be the determining factor of whether you become stronger or fall apart during your first year at college.

Allison

Dear sixteen-year-old Alli, If only you knew then what I knew now. How many times have you heard dad say that? Well it's true. Sure high school prepares you for, and gets you into college, but college determines the rest of your life. In college, it's important to take risks. Join a club, go out with friends, approach a teacher. Everyone on campus is there to help you. I used to be horrible about reaching out to people when I needed help. Don't be afraid to do that. What high school doesn't teach you is money management. You're about to embark on a debt-accumulating journey at a private university. Save all the money you can, and spend it wisely. You probably don't need that new pair of Adidas, or that really cute sweater. One more thing: remember how shy you were in high school? Don't be afraid to cut loose and be real. You have a beautiful soul, and people can't wait to get to know you. Do everyone a favor and introduce yourself. I can't wait to see where life takes you, Alli

James

Don't worry about the transtion. It's nerve wracking and easy to assume that you won't make any friends or that you're going to hate your roommate. The biggest piece of advice I can give you is to relax and let all those worries fall away. You are at the start of what's going to be a great year. You're going to meet a lot of new people and you're not going to becoming friends with everyone, but that doesn't matter. It doesn't matter because you will honestly make so many new friends that you're going to feel like sometimes you don't have enough time to see them all. So just relax and enjoy this last year of high school because you're about to start on the most exciting time of your life.

Alicia

I would advise every high school senior to go into college with an opened mind ready to learn. Most importantly, take advantage of your resources, and learn how to learn!

Danica

I wish I took the AP Calculus and AP physics test. I took the AP calculus and physics classes, but my teacher did not push me to take the tests and so I did not even try to take the tests. I am currently double majoring in business and mathematics and I regret not taking the AP tests. Right now, I have to take Calculus I and Physics and that might have not have to happen if I took the AP exams and got a 4 or a 5. My advice to my past self would be to at lest try to take the exams, even when you do not think that you would pass it. At least try because if you do not try, then you will never know if you could have passed or failed. Also, be careful with eatting. Coming into college, there are so many food choices, but pace yourself. You have 4 years to eat whatever you want. Do not get caught in the freshman 15 because it is hard to lose the freshman 15.

Andrew

Always be confident in yourself. Never change who you are or deny what you believe as the result of peer pressure or a stressful situation. Know yourself. Instead of trying to fit in with the cool kids, develop yourself and your own interests, because you'll soon find out that the cool kids are actually pretty boring. Don't be ashamed of your past, instead, learn from your mistakes and your successes. What you do in this very moment determines what happens in the next. Always be in a state of growth and development. Be reflective and mindful of your current situation in order to discover the path to better circumstances in the future. Friends will come and go and fun times will be had but don't let these factors influence the amount of time you spend on your main priority: recieving an education and ultimately a degree. With this in mind, spend time doing activites that relieve stress, not create it. If this means playing an instrument or spending time with friends, then so be it, but balance everything with the idea that school is the main priority. Decide your priorities, stick to them and balance them out.

Alex

I would tell myself to take IB tests. Not testing in IB is one of my biggest regrets. Had I tested I wouldn't have to take any of my core classes. My math, history, and english credits would all be waived and I would've been able to start upper-division nursing as a sophomore rather than a junior. The good thing about not testing in IB though is that I can use my prior knowledge in those subjects to boost my GPA. Something else I would've told myself was to focus on studying more and getting better grades to fully prepare myself for the amount of studying college would entail. Also, I would've told myself to apply for more scholarships and jobs to get more money because there are many unexpected expenses.

Triona

When I came to college, I thought I had all the basic skills I needed. I had good study skills, I could balance a checkbook, and I knew how to do my own laundry. While these things are all very important, there are a few other items, although not often thought of, that would have been very helpful. The first is get a bike and know how to use it. Like most freshman, I did not get to have a car on campus, so it was either walk or bike. Sadly, I did not have a bike my freshman year, and it meant a lot of walking to and from the grocery store. The second is know how to use email. It's not that hard, and your profesors will love you. The third is to plan time for yourself. College is difficult, and it's easy to let stress get the best of you. Plan time to excersice, read, and spend time with friends. Excercise and proper sleep will make you healthier and happier. Also, make sure your friends know that they are a priority to you, they will save you when things get rough.

Ivy

The mean girls do not go away. They will remain, in their same cliquey bunches, fighting over the same boys and talking the same trash. The responsibilities do not go away. Taking out the trash, doing the dishes, taking the time to study, these things do not vanish once you move out. But you're sense of perpetual boredom and frustration with the limitations and drama of your small town, these things will all go away when you make the transition into adulthood. Suddenly, you will understand the insecurities behind the mean girls, and you will understand how to surround yourself with the right people. You will want to keep your living area clean, and you will understand how to take pride in the person you have become. Your fear of the future will never dissapear, but it will be replaced by a confidence that comes with purpose and responsibility. College has more to offer than high school ever did, and with that in mind you can leave the mean girls behind.

Kayla

If I could describe senior year in a few words it would be: an emotional whirlwind. Looking back on the experience or any experience, there are often things you wish you could change. First of all, research! Throughout the process of applying, actually research schools; hone in on your interests, find schools with good programs, and not only research their field but see what else they have to offer. Study abroad, scholarships, weekend excursions, volunteer opportunities, class size, and much more! Next, be excited! Yes, rejections are difficult. Often times, what makes it much more difficult is when your friends or peers get accepted and there you are with a rejection letter. Don’t get hung up on it. Allow yourself an hour to be mad at the world and upset; but then look over your own achievements, look at your acceptances, be proud, and get excited for the bright future you have to come. Lastly, know how you study. Groups? Individually? Flashcards? Talking it out? Find the study habits that work best for YOU. Pay attention to what works best because it is really imperative to your success in college.

Alina

I would tell myself to take better care of myself. To be the best person I can be, you need to make sure that you are healthy and happy in order to become a better person. I would say that assignments can be turned in late, if you cannot stay awake, if you have not eaten, or if you are on the verge of having a breakdown. It is okay to put the homework down for a second and relax. I would remind myself that school is not everything. In order to continue doing well in classes and life, you have to take some time to take care of you. School work does not take precedence over your wellbeing. The most important part about being a success person in life that you need to remember is that you are a person that needs to think about your hunger, sleep schedule, and emotions.

Thomas

The main advice I would give to myself is to not worry about it. It all works out in the end, one way or another so don't freak out or be nervous. I would also advise myself to make as many friends as possible and not focus on a few because sometimes those dont work out and then you are out of luck for a while.

Goutham

If I had the opportunity to give myself advice, now that I know about college life and making the transition, I would not give myself any advice. I would not give myself any advice because, now that I look back, struggling through the transition and getting accustomed to college life was important and it would hurt me if I did not struggle. It is also very important to not be comfortable and not know what is going to happen because that is what is going to happen in life a lot. If I told myself what to look for and what to do, I would have cheated myself out of a valuable experience. The fact that I figured out what people to talk to, how I should plan my day, and where I should eat means that I was able to learn on my feet. This is a skill that is vital in life because so much of life is not planned and the ability to adjust is essential in life. I loved that I had the opportunity to improve my improv skills and if I had been told what to do, it just would have hurt me.

Cassandra

Experience and learn. In our Western society that, that is the beautiful theme of college.With that in mind listen here, going to Michigan is not the best option you have in your pocket right now. Rather you should stay in Arizona and become a part of the great outdoor community that is around you. Love the people of Phoenix well, and learn a lot from the community college, learn as much as you can! After community college go to the University of Portland with great scholarships! Don't just memorize those vocabulary words soak them up. There are over 3 billion women whom would do anything to get the unhindered education that you are about to receive. If you don't take any of the advice above, that is fine, because you will learn and experience SO MUCH regardless of the route you take. Just keep caring.

Amanda

Follow your heart. When I was in high school, I was a captain on the cross country and track teams, I was a peer tutor, I took all A.P. classes - I was involved in a lot. Because I was successful I thought so many people were counting on me so I participated in activities that I didn't enjoy because I was afraid to disappoint someone. I didn't take the time to find activities I was truly passionate about. College is the place to start fresh. College is the place where people find out who they are. College is a place for experimentation and play; the place where a person can try new things and decide to hate them or love them. I spent many years trying to please others. I've made so many decisions - for myself - that I never would have in high school and I've loved every one! Try things that seem strange! Learn how to say no! Listen to your heart, and trust your gut. That combination will lead you down an unbeaten path, full of treasures and adventures. Do what makes you happy first and foremost, it is, in fact, your life.

Madison

High school self, Your life right now is going to make you feel like you need to have it all figured out. You will be told you need to choose a major, choose a college that has a great program for that major and then you will always be told your grades and SAT scores aren’t good enough. Stop. Breath. The turmoil that the stress brought isn’t worth the arguments with your parents. They are the best people in your life right now. They are excited for you, they want to help you, even though you think they are forcing you to make these huge life decisions. You are special, you know who you are and have started college off right. You turned down the drugs, alcohol and sex to stay true to your own values. Be proud that you stick out in high school because in college you are the person that has their head screwed on right. You have to learn to accept that being different and “old-fashion” in high school isn’t a bad thing; don’t let others make you feel bad about yourself. You are special. You are loved. Always be you.

Rylee

I would tell myself to do more community service. It'll help me relate to the people around me and be more compassionate. I would also tell myself that it's okay to not know and be a little uncertain in myself, because anyone who learned anything had a point where they didn't know. All of the people starting college with me had times where they were in the same place as I was, and I would even know more than others and be able to help them. I would also tell myself not to worry so much about money or friends or things that could be out of my control. In the end, what will be will be, and the best thing I could have learned would be to make the best of each and every thing that happened to or around me.

Guadalupe

Coming into college can be a stressful adventure full of mistakes, new ideas and opportunities, learning, happiness and yes, maybe even a couple tears here and there. Getting ready for such a big step in life is exciting but making the transition is a little scary. You may not know how your roommates, professors and other students are going to be like, how big (or small) your class may be, or how much work you may have to put into each class. You may not know how to study in a college setting, how to make friends, how to manage a schedule, or how to get around campus or town. But keep this in mind; all the freshmen are dealing with some or all of the same things that you are dealing with. You have to be open to new opportunities, meeting new people, being open with others; communicate, compromise and be outgoing. You have to be able to ask for help, go see your professors as needed, introduce yourself with confidence and kindness, know when to say yes, when to say no. Ask questions. The people around you are there to help. Do not be afraid to feel uncomfortable.