University of St Thomas-Saint Paul Top Questions

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

Ashley

Ashley, Remember a few statements mom would always say, "Will it really matter in ten years? Remember your high school friends might not be your friends for life. It's the friendships you form in college who will be your life long friends and will always be there for you. You might not like someone, but you always have to be polite." Those statement will help you through your senior year in high school and your college life . Don't let the trival things bother you. Learn to work through them and use the expierence to grow who you are as a person. Mature and grow in your faith and in yourself. Remember to bring your light to the world and touch the lives of the people you meet each day. Let your light and smile shine. Most importantly live your life with exclamation points! God's Blessings to you. Love you so much, Ashley.

Jonathan

If I could go back to my senior year in high school i would have done a lot of things different and a lot of things the same way. Some advice i would give myself would be to have better study habits, to take the hardest classes possible, set more goals, read more books, get a job, and have more fun outside of school because I won't see 75{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of my classmates ever again. Highschool does get you prepared for college, but they are two very different institutions and nothing can fully prepare you for what college has in store. If i would have had better english classes in highschool i would have been better off in college. If i would have taken calculus my senior year it would have helped me my freshman year of college. Taking harder classes pays off and hard work pays off even more. If i could go back to my senior year i would want to be there for a long time because getting anxious and wanting to go to college can hurt you in the long run. I missed out on oppurtunities, but i learned from my mistakes.

Sean

It is fundamental that you identify what you are passionate about and where you want to see yourself in the future. From there, determine what academic field it would be and take as many classes as you can in that field. Learn as much as you can. If possible, try taking advance placement tests to receive college credit. In addition to grades and test scores, extracurricular activities are taken into account when applying for colleges. Though they are good for demonstrating a student?s outside commitments and interests, be wary not to participate in more than you can manage. Decide what kind of school you want to attend. Think about location, size, academics and offered extracurricular activities. After researching prospective colleges, take campus tours. This is a valuable tool to experience firsthand the character and atmosphere of the campus. Imagine yourself as a student on each tour and get a feel for what suits you. Know the application deadlines of any school that interests you. If teacher recommendations are required, be sure to request them well in advance. Completing a college application is a production and you should keep track of all information during the application process.

Grace

First of all, you are not alone. As scared, lonely and confused you are, there are 10 people on your dorm floor that are just as worried, if not more. It's okay not to have close friends and inside jokes the first weeks of college. It takes time! There is no perfect way of finding your niche. Just get out there and meet people. It doesn't have to be scary if you remember the person you go up to probably wants to find friends just as bad. It's the first step in many that will bring toward the friends you'll remember forever. Second, get involved early. I know you aren't sure what your major is and not even comfortable committing to a "favorite song" but visit the clubs on campus and get a feel for what they do and what they'll do for you. The earlier you make those connects and weed out the ones that don't fit you, the better you are in the long run. You'll never know what your likes and dislikes are if you don't try out new things to develop your preferences. Have fun with it!

Kristine

If I could go back and tell myself what I know now, I would have many things to tell myself about college life and making the transition. First, I would tell myself not to stress out about adjusting and making new friends. I spent a lot of time worrying whether I would make as good as friends at school as I have at home. What I did not think of is that everyone else is feeling the same way, so making friends would be a lot easier than what I expected. I would also tell myself to make sure that I do not only take the quality of the school into consideration when deciding what college to attend, but to also factor in the environment that I would live in. While the classes may be exactly what I want, the city in which i would live might not fit me as well. Finally, I would tell myself that the adjusting period and feeling homesick is normal. Everyone feels that way at some point, so don't let that ruin your experience at school because I have now seen many friends ruin their experience of college.

Kayla

Everyone says college is supposed to be the "best four years of your life." That's a lot of pressure to put on a small fraction of your life. It makes you feel like you have to balance schoolwork, deciding what you want to do with your life, working off your loans, building relationships, intellectual growth, and being involved on campus, all while having the time of your life. Here's what I want to tell you: you don't have to do it all. Sometimes it will be fun and exciting, but other times its just going to be hard work. Don't go to college expecting it to be the most amazing years of your life, and that its all downhill afterwards. Instead, go in expecting it to be both good and bad, stressful and rewarding, up and down. It doesn't have to be the best four years of your life to make it a worthwhile experience.

Kelly

I would tell myself to wait to jump into a serious relationship. I am expecting and it is one of the biggest challenges I am facing now in my life and if i waited I would not be in this situation. How ever it has taught me the great value of my education and how important it is to me to do well and to graduate with a degree. I would also tell myself to no matter what strive for greatness and not to let anyone else including family hold me back from what I really want to do. The professors are so helpful and want to see their students reach greatness, so never worry about asking them for help.

Denise

Going back in time and talking to myself as a senior in high school, I would tell myself to start looking for scholarships to college in the early fall rather than waiting until the spring when I will be stressing over graduation. I would, however, congratulate myself on choosing to do early decision in applying for my choice of schools. This was a smart move since I knew whether or not I was accepted to certain schools by October or November, and I would have had the rest of the fall to look for scholarships if I had not procrastinated it until the spring. I would tell myself to relax and not worry about not making friends or fitting in, because I knew then and now that the atmosphere at the University of St. Thomas is extremely friendly and welcoming. Finally I would tell myself to remember to be sure I got seven to eight hours of sleep every night. This would mean working out my time between friends, classes, and studying. Overall, I would say to enjoy the final days of being in high school and to look forward to recieving a great education and having tons of fun.

Shakira

If I were able to go back in time as a high school senior I would apply for more scholarships, submit college applications earlier to ensure a great financial aid package, and not procrastinate as much as I did.

Michelle

"Party everyday, pa-pa-pa-party everday," is the message that many potential students are always thinking about, as well as something that our modern society discusses often. College visits often inform prospective students of the college or universites academics, athletics and clubs, but they do not address the issue that always finds its way into most students minds- parties. Not being a partier myself I was very apprehensive about the pressures that college might bring. After having my first semester under my belt, I would tell myself to just be myself and not to avoid going out just because I did not want to drink. I would say that it is possible and not all that abnormal to go out and stay sober, still providing a great social experience. As the cliche illustrates well, lifes too short, live without regrets. So, I would also tell myself not to live in fear and just experience college, exploring all opportunities that may come my way.

Joseph

Make sure to branch out and make as many friends as you can, especially in the first month of school. Also, look for some fun classes to take, even if they do not fit with your major.

Carissa

As I walk back into the old doors of St. Croix Falls High School old classmate run to greet the newly returning graduate. As the questions fly of how, what and where college is and what it is like, I can't help but smile. As college will never be able to be fully expained in the five minutes of catch up in the hallway. What I would I tell the eager students awaiting answers, what would I go tell myself who once was in their shoes? I would express how fast it truly flies, leaving you wondering where your week went. Warn how no matter how much you may feel ready or prepared, their will be a professor, class or project that will test and challenge you and make you wonder what you learned all of highschool. Knowing that pushing oneself will be harder than its ever been, but give a few months and all will feel normal. Transfering into a college student is greatly rewarding and gives such a feeling of accomplishment, all one has to do is believe and go for it.

Jordan

- Always be practicing good time management skills. - Be willing to ask for help when you need it because there are people who want to help you. - Even though you are not in class as much as in high school, you will put in a lot more time out of class. - Never lose your focus because you have to be at the top of your game at all times in order to get good grades.

Hudson

Hudson, don't be so driven and focused! College is a time where one should take in everything around them and enjoy the college life. I know that you always want a challenge and that's good, but let this experience make you a complete person, not someone who is just good in one area. And with this comes the rule that I recommend to you: be a people person! I encourage you to not only be involved with sports and clubs, but be involved in people's personal lives. Get to know them and look out for them, don't just look out for yourself! These types of relationships will have a lasting impact on your life and in the end will be the type of memories that you take away. With this, I hope you enjoy college! Stay true to your faith in God and have an impact everywhere you go. See you in four years!

Mai-Eng

Be prepared to expect changes and know that these changes will make you a better person. You are on your way to becoming someone who you think you never will become. Learn from others and meet new people, these relationships can build up to be lasting friendships. Also learn how to challenge yourself to the best of your ability and critically engages yourself with your education. Whenever you feel like school is too much, don't give up and remind yourself that you are just halfway up the ladder in reaching your dreams and goals. Try to get to know your professors and fellow classmates, for they will help encourages and support you to in your educational goals. Lastly, remember that all changes either good or bad will make you who you ought to be.

Megan

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I think I would advise myself to spend more time with my parents. As a high school senior, I worked very diligently in school and always strived to excel in my work. I would find myself studying and working harder on my homework than other students. Friends and other classmates would make fun of me for putting so much effort into my work, but honestly, it helped me make a smooth transition into the college life and college work load. Therefore, the advice that I would give myself would concern spending more time with my parents. It's the only thing that maybe would have made my transition easier because I found out that I really missed my parents once I moved out. If I would have spent more time with them, I would not have felt so bad about being away from home. My senior year involved hanging out with friends, which was a good thing, but family always comes first, so I regret not being with my family more.

Ian

Have fun with college, do not be afraid to reach for the stars. Its college and it only comes once so get out and meet new people. Its no different then the transition that you made senior year except this time you have to live with these people, enjoy it but make sure to study because time flies when you are having fun.

Trevor

If I could go back in time to my high school years I would have told myself to look forward to the adventure of college. During the years in high school I was nervous about making the transition to college. Now that I am in college I wish I wouldnt have put the stress on myself. Another piece of advice that I would give myself would be to apply to more colleges. I like St. Thomas but I wish I would have gave myself more of a diversity of college choices. I wish I would have taken some college classes in high school and had the credits transfer over because it would have saved me a lot of money.

Katie

I have three phrases of wisdom: don't worry, be confident, and stay focused. The first few weeks will pass in a blur - between classes, meeting new people, getting to know your roommate and floormates, working out when to use your meal plan, and arranging and rearranging your room, you won't have time to be homesick or even keep in steady communication with your friends from back home. Everyone is nervous about meeting new people, and, at the same time, first impressions make a world of difference when everyone is new to each other. Stand up straight, smile, and introduce yourself. You are embarking on your new life - now isn't the time to be shy. Finally (and this is the most important), stay focused. While you have full permission to go out and have fun, remember that you are there, paying thousands of dollars, for your education. Don't dissapoint your teachers, parents, friends, and - most importantly - yourself by making poor decisions. Trust your gut, and stick to it. Always remember that you have talents, a bright future, and people who love you. Your opportunity to expand your horizons and build your future starts now.

Ashley

If I was able to talk to my Senior high school self I would tell myself to take looking up money for college seriously. It is very difficult trying to pay college expenses especially when you are paying for your education on your own. It takes a lot of patience and prayer to work and go to school. So start saving up for books and taking college finances seriously.

Molly

If I could go back in time to give some much needed hindsight advice I would mainly tell myself to relax, enjoy the ride and do what your heart tells you. I spent the first two years in community college because I thought I would save money but sometimes in the long run, the experiences a 4 year college gives you are far greater than the 5 thousand dollars you saved. I wish I could tell myself that everything will work out, it does for everyone eventually! Even when you think your the only person in the world who cant decide what you want to do with your life trust me your not! Make as many connections as possible and force yourself to be outgoing, that is how friends and career paths are made. Finally, I would tell my younger self that sometimes you have to accept that you might not be the 'best' at something but in life its the people who work the HARDEST who come out on top. Oh, I think I would also tell myself that I should thank my mom more often...she was always so helpful!

Madeline

I would tell myself to take a lot more PSEO courses and organize them better. I took two college courses, thinking that it would give me an edge, but I found that my peers were entering college with many more credits. With the extra credits they were able to get earlier registration times and the ability to focus on classes they really wanted to take since they had most of their generals fulfilled. One of the two courses that I took before entering school fulfills one of my generals and a major requirement, but the other one counts only as an elective. Although I was unable to know this during high school, I share this advice with my little sisters and the current seniors at my former high school.

Theresa

The best advice I could give a high school senior is that college is a really exciting time in your life. You are transitioning to living on your own, and you are in control of your life. With this freedom comes a lot of self-discipline and responsiblity. In my case, I am the one who is paying for school and working a number of jobs to do that. I would tell myself to enjoy the time and have patience. You do not need to make a name for yourself the first semester.

Brandon

Brandon, you have no idea what the transition from high school to college is going to be like. You lack the obedience you are going to need as the classes you'll face in college require more dedication to studying and digging deeper into material then was assigned. Although there are no worries and you'll do fine, just remember that it's key to get that desired gpa standing early before you have so many credits that a 4.0 semester won't budge your cummulative more then a tenth point. Also as with any college student money is an issue 90 {4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of the time so it would behoove you to start the process of saving some here and there. An elaborate savings plan would be greatly beneficial such as contributing 50 {4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c} of your wages to a savings account or some sort of bond while working in high school. I hope this advice will be taken and wish you the best of luck with your college experience and career decisions! Have a nice day.

William

If I had the oppertunity to start college all over again, I would have made many different decisions. First I would have spoken with professors to help me decide which classes to take. I missed signing up for one crutial class, which resulted in me having to spending an fifth year at St. Thomas. A second piece of advice I would give myself is to make sure to keep a balance between social life and academics. I find it difficult to make many friends as it is, but the first semester of college I feel I should have made more friends than I did. I was very preocupied with my studies, but I feel that at the same time it is just as important to meet new people and make new friends. I did meet a couple very nice people whom are now some of my best friends, but I feel I could have met more than I did. Lastly I would have given myself all of the tips that I have picked up on how to save money. I am good at saving money as it is, but I have learned crutial tips that will help in the future.

Jacob

If I could go back in time, I would advise myself as a high school senior to enjoy senior year while it lasts. By this I am not implying that college is worse than high school (I believe quite the opposite). I would advise myself this because senior year can quickly become a full load with applications and graduation. These aspects can become so time consuming that senior year will fly by in no time. Unfortunately, I was so caught up in applying for colleges and preparing for graduation that senior year now seems to be just a blur. I would advise myself to slow down and enjoy my last months in high school. I would not be so eager to move on in my education - as if my eagerness could some how make time go faster. At the end of my first semester in college, I finally realize how valuable time is and how important it is to enjoy something while it lasts. I would advise myself to make use of time, not for preparing for the future but for enjoying the present.

Joel

Don't stress out about it very much. College life is more work than high school, but as long as you stay on top of the home work, and are aware of due dates and such, there should be no problem. Also, understand that college is neither ALL fun and games, or NO fun at all. With the right mixture of both, college is a very rewarding thing to do.

Vincent

If I could go back in time and give myself advice on going to college, I would in a heartbeat. The first thing I would tell myself is to apply to many different schools. Having an open mind is a necessity when making a life changing decision such as choosing a college to attend. I would also tell myself to make a list of all the qualities that I think are important in a college. By setting up a list, it would be easy to comparing the different schools I am considering. I would also advise myself to visit and stay overnight at the schools that are definite possibilities. This way I could get a feel for what exactly life is like at each institution. By accomplishing all these tasks, I think it would have been way easier for me to finally end up at the University of St. Thomas. After finally choosing a college to attend I would tell myself to look hard for scholarships. A good education comes at a price and scholarships can aid in paying for tuition. The final piece of advice I would give myself after I was attending college is to study hard!

Anne

If I could go back and give myself advice as a high school senior, I would tell myself to stay focussed, and work hard in school. College is just as great as you thought it would be, and though the work is hard and very time consuming just know that it will help you get to where you want to be. Be ready to make this big commitment, and have the time of your life.

Colleen

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to go with my gut instinct right away. I waited to long to pick the school I know I wanted to go to right away. I would tell myself to not turn into this big thing about whether or not I was the kind of person that should be at St. Thomas. Mostly, I would tell myself that I was making one of the best decisions of my life. The being scared and unsure about things is normal, but getting over that faster helps you enjoy the enviornment around much quicker. Live a little and have fun, you made the right choice. That is what I would say.

Kesha

The first piece of advise I would have liked to have received before going to school is that the first few weeks are going to be hard, especially if you're attending a school where you don't know anyone else. It takes a lot of work to meet new people and make new friends. If I could give myself advice as a high school senior, I would really stress the importance of being proactive with every new situation. It is important to remember that a lot of other people (meaning almost everyone else!) is feeling the same way you are, so don't be shy about introducing yourself or making plans. Reminding yourself that all your hard work will eventually pay off is helpful too! I would also recommend keeping in mind that it's ok to do things alone. Sometimes you have to be willing to take the risk of going somewhere alone, but who knows, the outcome could really be worth it! And most importantly, remember to enjoy everyday. This is an experience you'll never have again, so make the most of it and have fun!

Derek

College is what you make of it. Prestige and recognition of the institution will only take you so far in life. The students who are actively engaged in their studies and have a genuine urge to learn will be successful no matter where they go to school.

Albert

Albert do not be afraid of what the future will hold for you. What you need to do, is make sure that you are emotionally ready for this drastic change in your lives. Do not set a limit for yourself- believe in yourself and apply to your dream schools as well as schools that are logical. Even though there are a lot of factors to consider with college, does not mean you have to hold yourself back. For instance, I know money has been an issue wit you. Well, there are countless amount individuals, at your school and academic sources that are nearby and will assist you in your journey and help you financially. Make sure to talk. Clich? as it may sound; talking to teachers you?re your counselor, and talking to other seniors about him or her process. It will have huge affect on your motivation. Also, have that conversation, about college with your mom. She needs to know what is going on in your head and what are your thoughts and dreams. You cannot assume that she is going to know what you want. Finally, relax, do not stress yourself everything will go as plan.

Frederick

If I could travel back in time and talk to myself when I was only a high school senior, I would say, "Younger Self, don't worry about going to college. You may not enjoy school very much right now; in fact, you probably live for the weekend and die a little bit every Monday. But, college is different. College is where learning becomes fun; it's where school finally gets interesting. In college you have much more freedom in choosing classes, you get to pick a major that actually interests you, and you get to study in an awesome environment where you're best friends live a mere two doors down the hall. Younger Self, you may not enjoy learning very much right now, but once you find that one subject that really interests you, the one that sparks your curiosity, then you'll see how learning can be a great joy. Much to your surprise, your subject will be philosophy. Maybe that's why you don't enjoy school at the moment, because you haven't been exposed to your passion yet. Keep at it! College will probably end up being the best experience of your life."

David

Make sure you choose the school you are most interested in. Choose the one that fits best with your personality. Get involved with many activities outside of school. This will help you meet friends and help you relax, have fun and get your mind off studying. Don't be overwhelmed with the course work. You will get used to it and it will work out fine. Take classes you are interested in. Don't take classes just because you need to. They say college is one of the best experiences in your lifetime so enjoy it.

Amanda

I would tell myself to not procrastinate. It is such a bad habbit to get into. You think that you have all this time to study and you have a lot things to distract you but you need to put them a side for a while so you can study. Time management is an important lesson you learn in college that a lot of students, including me, learn the hard way. If you do not learn how to manange your time better, you end up staying up all night studying for an 8:00 am history final exam! Then you do not get any sleep and you have to stay up late again studying for an economics final exam. Basically, if you do not learn time management, you do not sleep, and sleep is a necessity. Therefore, if you do not have time management, you go crazy!

Chris

Half of college is seeking out relationships, and finding both like-minded people, and those with differing views. This is all good, because college provides an atmosphere to explore who you are and who you want to become, ESPECIALLY if you don't know just yet. Take the time to find the college that would be a great fit for yourself. Don't be afraid to travel outside of your hometown or state, don't hesitate if it's some other reason; i.e. financial (there are plenty of ways to help students out). So go forth, and have fun with the new chapter in your life.

Amy

Go to the school that feels best to you, like your home. Don't worry about the money and financial situaion, it will all work out in the end. Go where YOU want to go and see yourself going, not a best friend or significant other. Use this time in your life to find yourself, and grow as an individual.

Aleksandra

I would tell myself to go on an overnight visit at all the schools and find out what students really think and how the life on campus actually is. Even with tours, you don't get a full experience of the university. Not that I don't enjoy being on campus at St. Thomas, but the main reason I'm currently here is academics. If it was just based on the life on campus here, I don't think I would have been as easily persuaded to go here. That being said, I don't think I made the wrong choice in schools, I just think it would have been smarter to see what the students at that school thought without the administration telling them what to say to the prospective students.

Heather

In looking back at my college experience so far, I know it has been one of learning, growth both academically and personally, as well as filled with fun activities and opportunities to get involved. If I had the ability to talk to myself my high school year of college knowing what I know now, I would tell myself to be calm and enjoy each moment of college. It goes by fast and you only have this opportunity to get involved on an undergraduate college campus during these four years. Also, do not fear the independence adjustment because you will learn so much about yourself and grow as an individual while maintaining connections with family and past friends. Life at home will not completely change to a point that you no longer recognize it once you leave. Lastly, I would recommend to get involved early in college because there are so many opportunities to take advantage of and only so much time. Focus on finding the career/subject you enjoy and choose volunteer opportunities and jobs that fit this interest. All in all, have fun and remember you are at college to receive an education.

Alison

I would tell myself a couple things. Firstly, I would say to enjoy high school sports while they last, because this is the best shape that you'll ever be in! Also, I would say to not worry about the college selection process; you're going to get where you need to go. Also, just be open and excited for the incredible opportunities that both college and life are going to throw at you. Finally, I would tell myself to trust in myself and my decision, because it has turned out to be one of the best ones that I have ever made. I have come to know myself more in these 1.5 years of college than I had throughout my entire 13 previous years of school! And one last thing to add: the "Freshman 15" is a reality. Prepare youself. :)

Karen

I would do the exact same thing.

Thuong

I would tell myself to better prepare myself. For I did PSEO in Minnesota, taking college courses on a college campus during junior and senior year in high school, I would tell myself to optimize all of the help that they offer. Use the various tutors that they have, visit your professors often and seek help whenever something doesn't make any sense rather than trying to figure it out yourself. Be social and make friends, friends are great to study with and make the college experience that much more fun. Try to keep track of everything and then begin to manage time better, for it will help that much more as you are going through college. College is a great environment, make the library your best friend, its a great place to do homework and study. Don't forget to get involved, joining clubs and organizations help you meet people and will always make your time in college a much more fun experience. Remember, study hard, try your best, and last but not least, always have fun!

Isaac

I would tell my high school self that college is going to be difficult but exciting. It?s an opportunity to grow and enrich yourself in more ways than just the classes you take. Higher education is a place to discover yourself and develop ways to express who you become to society. College will open doors to a better future and you shouldn't drop out early because it'll take you 8 years to return. Although those eight years are very important for who you become, things are easier and life will be more fruitful if you finish your first time in college. I would also tell myself I don't have to take all my majors classes first because I'll end up changing my mind. Concentrate on some generals first to help discover what you are truly passionate about. Once you find that, declare a major, focus on studying because it'll only be a short 4 years if you do. Finally, even if you don't listen to this advice, everything will be ok because you'll return and finish a degree and then you'll know I was right!

Nickolaus

I would tell myself to make sure you study hard and to devote these next four years to school and learning and not as much to fun and games. I would tell myself to join all of the groups and clubs that you can to make as many friends as you can. Also volunteering is very important to employers. Finally, attend all of the meetings and events related to your career to be able to maximize the amount of business people that you know to better your chances of getting a job after completion of school.

Cory

Understand each course's load and how it will impact my social life. Stay on top of my assignments and class work from the first day of class, letting it pile up will lead to a few sleepless nights. Also, go above and beyond for help on papers, homework, studying for tests, etc. even if you don't think that you don't need it; the more work you put into school now will allow for a better job in the future, plus the professors see how much outside work you put into a class. The professor will be more willing to help you and help you in everyway possible. Lastly, constantly review previous topics and assignments so that you don't forget the information for later tests and so you don't have to cram the night before. The moral of my first semester as a college freshman is to stay on top of the class work and go beyond the normal.

Laura

If I went back in time, I would make sure I knew how difficult college was going to be. Not only academically, but also how large of an adjustment it would be. I would have formed better study habits and learned to be a little more outgoing. I also would have found a better job because college is way more expensive than I thought!

Clare

Don't give up on your dreams. You know that everyone in this world wants to make the most for themselve and you have seen how money has destroyed your family. Don't let the fear of ending up poor stop you from following your dreams. You love writing and so take journalism classes; take English classes. Being happy is not about having things- it is a conscious choice that you must strive toward every day by being exactly who you are. Who you are is a unique and loving individual who has alot of potential. If you work hard, you can achieve your dreams, despite what your father says. Don't settle for anything less thatn what you want. Oh, and work on your absentmindedness.

Victoria

I would tell myself that it is never to early to start planning for a career, and that any experience I can get is crucial to my future. Participating in sports and other activites helps give you experience and leadership skills which will help mold you into a well rounded individual. I would also tell myself to keep an open mind because college is the place where you really learn the most about yourself. You learn your values, what type of people you want to surround yourself with, and who you want to become. The last thing I would tell myself is to not be afraid to take risks, because taking risks helps you learn what you did wrong, what you need to work on, and what you want to do differently in the future!

Mirella

I would tell my high school senior self that I would end up absolutely loving St. Thomas. I would encourage myself to join all the clubs I was interested in, make lots of friends, be open to others, and never give up. I would also remind myself to keep perservering and not give up on the things that I love to do. Finally, I would tell myself to keep being true to myself and not lose my true self in the transition to college and making new friends. Above all, keep my faith present in my life because that is something that will keep me going during the tough times.