University of St Thomas-Saint Paul Top Questions

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

Kellie

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to stay focused on school. It is so easy to slip into the "senior slide" because of all the excitement of graduating. I did take AP courses and I would assure myself that was the right thing to do. I'd even reccommend taking more as well as focusing on my grades in College in the Schools Spanish. I would also tell myself not to stress out so much because everything will work out for the best. Lastly, I'd make sure I would have focused more on networking. It is so important to branch out and make connections with new people, because you'll never know when you'll need some piece of information that they might have. Mostly, I'd tell myself to keep pushing through and don't slack off!

Lauren

If I could go back in time and give myself advice I would have told myself that although this new step in life is huge and life-changing, it is also not a matter of life and death. I used to think college was scary and picking the wrong college or major would result in an unsatisfying career and lifestyle. However, looking back I would recommend to that worried teenager to just breathe and accept what happens because the choices I made then were only the first I would have to answer to. Even though I sometimes feel as though I am jumping into things head-first and it scares me, it is still worthwhile.

Meghan

No matter how much effort or work you put into getting ready for college it is all pointless because until you get everything unpacked in your dorm room and your parents walk out that door, there is no way to prepare yourself for what you will feel. So stop worrying, you will be fine, and keep your head held high even through all the hardships you may endure.

Christiaan

I would advise myself to treat everything as a new experience and to be open to as many experiences as possible right away. The sooner you get involved on campus, the more easily you will adjust, make friends and make the new college a home for yourself. Be selfish in the sense that this is the one time in your life when you can be yourself, be who you want to be and do what you want to do. You're here to learn for yourself, not for anyone else. So enjoy this time and explore who you are. Get help when you need it. Make sure you discipline yourself to study a fair amount of hours each day. If you are having a hard time, get actively involved in helping yourself out to do better in classes. Make sure that if you get homesick, try to fight that off and gain independence to live on your own. Stay involved with friends and make sure you have things to do, especially early on.

Louise

When I made my college decision, I really didn't now what factors would be important to me once I got to college. Now that I'm here, there are definitely a few things I wish I had known would matter to me. For instance, if there's something extracurricular that you enjoy doing, definitely make sure to choose a college that will make it possible for you to continue doing that. Personally, I really love horseback riding, but being at a college in the city I'm unforunately unable to continue that activity. I never even considered that when choosing a college. I took the transition process very slowly - buying my college gear and packing over a long period of time rather than hurrying it all at once - and I'm very glad I did that. It made the whole thing much less of a shock and allowed me to prepare myself for leaving home. College is totally different from high school, so there's really no good way to effectively prepare yourself before you get there - you just have to be willing to take each change and adapt accordingly.

Vera

Apply to college early. look at all your options and listen to your parents advice. Visit colleges and see which one you like best...its very important to like your school and feel part of it. I would apply to the University of St. Thomas right away and not wait to go through 2 other colleges to finally find the one you love. I would tell myself that college is very different than high school but also silimar in a way because it requires a lot of detication and determination to finish it and build your career afterwards.

Alicia

The biggest piece of advice I could give to myself as a senior in high school is that you should do everything you can to make yourself a more well-rounded person. I would tell myself to take as many AP classes that I could so that I could have those credits trasnfered to college. I would also tell myself that even though you may already be accepted to a college, that does not mean you should slack off.

Hayley

If I were able to talk to my senior self I would recomend trying as many new things as I possibly could. The best way to find out who you truly are, is to try new and different things. There is no better time to get to know yourself than in the most transitional phase of your life. Make sure you find a school that gives you the opportunity to learn and grow in all aspects like academics, athletics, involvement, etc. Find a school that you are proud of, because if you're not proud of yourself for going there, do you really think an employer will be interested? Be sure to use all your schools resources to make the best informed decision you can. It's really important during your college search that you make your school decision based on your own interests. You are the person who will be attending the school for the next four (plus) years, so you will want to be sure that you enjoy it. Finding the right school for your interests and your plans of future is key to finding happiness for the future. Good luck, and you know what to do!

Ashley

The most important thing that I would tell myself is to not to worry about getting straight A's in college. Even though you had straight A's in high school doesn't mean you will in college. You actually will enjoy the classes you take because you get to pick your major and what you want to focus on. The important thing is to learn, not getting A's all of the time. This is the hardest thing that I had to get through my head, but once you stop stressing about the letter grade and you know you're doing your absolute best, the class room becomes so much more enjoyable. I would also tell myself that it is extremely important to make new friends. Old high school friends might be there to talk to you but they may not be able to be there for you all of the time. You need to learn to let go. Friends are important because they not only are there to study with you but they take away some of the stress that college may bring you. Friends can enhance your college experience both in and out of the classroom.

Erin

Please, Do not stress over all the possible college options you have. Tours are the best option, the give you a real feeling for the school. Also, be organized! Keep track of the schools and scholarships you have applied for. When you get to school, get involved in fun clubs and organizations. Explore campus, and take advantage of all the ammenities you are paying for. Living on campus allows you to make many new friends, and clubs will help too. Remeber, the most important thing about college is your classes. Focus on them first, and study hard! Use the academic resources the school provides. Surround yourself with people who value their health and who concentrate on their academics. College is fun! Meet lots of new friends, and be involved: it will help you find a great career opportunity. Have a great time, good luck at school!

Jessica

I would tell myself to get more involved with the campus life, to study even more, and to not go home as much. Though I'm happy right now I do wish I would have tried more things on campus as a freshman. I am happy with my grades but with the things I struggled with I do believe they can always be improved upon. And I as a freshman I wish I wouldn't have gone home as much because then I would have been able to be more active in school activies and not miss so much.

Brad

"I would like to begin by telling you to enjoy the ride. Four years goes faster than you think and there's nothing we can do to speed up or slow down this experience. It's easy to get caught up in the college ideal and stray from one's beliefs. Which brings me to my second pice of advice, be yourself. The transition into college leaves many high school friendships to come and go just as the four seasons. The everwanting need to fit in and develop new and important friendships doesn't mean that you have to compromise yourself. I have seen people change their values, beliefs, and entire lifestyles because of this desire for status and friendship . Although these people appear happy and successful in the eyes of other students, they're simply putting on a facade . What I'm trying to say is simply be a good yourself and enjoy the time that you have because time is the one thing you can never buy back. No matter how many friends or how many zero's you have on your paycheck, time is fixed, so make the most of it."

Meghan

If I could go back in time and give myself advice, I think I would tell myself to work harder at getting internships. I believe that if I had actually done internships during my highschool years that it would have been easier to know which field of study I wanted to go into by the time I got to college. Also, I would tell myself to not be so afraid and nervous for college because it really isn't that different from what I was already doing in high school.

Angelina

I would of looked more carefully at each of the colleges tuition online. Join any Summer program before Freshman year in college. Research more about how to pay for college besides scholarships. Have a goal in mind.

Bronwyn

My advice to my high school senior self would have been to look at more colleges and universities. To do more campus tours and really learn what I like in a school before I settle on one. I wouldn't let myself settle for what I like or, think is good for me. I would tell myself to look really hard and really think about each and every school I was applying to. To really make sure they are what I want, what I like, and what is good for me. Not only in an academic sense, but to look at all of these aspects in a social sense as well. I would tell myself to do what is best for me, not what I think is the best.

Jennifer

I would advise myself to make better use of the department tutors and writing centers. That would have helped me make sure my freshman year work was top quality. I would also advise myself to take an easier couseload my first semester since there are so many adjustments to get used to. It is also easy to lack on sleep in college so to make sure I get an adequate amount everynight to prevent sickness and help manage stress. Getting involved on camps is one of the most important things to do!!

Joseph

I would tell myself to not slack off as much in high school. I would have studied more so those study skills would have transfered over to college. In college you have to study way more than you do in High School. That is one thing that I need to improve on and wish I did more of in high school.

Emily

Me as a high school student, i went through lot. I had my share of struggles, i had people telling me that i wasn't going to be able to even make it past high school. I proved them wrong. today in my college life i am working alli can and the best i can to prvde for myself. If i had the chance to give my high school self advice. would tell myself to be a better student, give myself options to make others proud. I would tell myself not to be lazy or selfish and get a job to help me in the future. Keep my mind on what i ant to make of myself. Think of how better i can live my life and help others in my career. I woud tell myself not to let anyone bring me down. I know i can do alot and i never ask for anything because I keep my head hih so i would ell myself t be te best i an be and make people proud. Thank you for giving me this chance.

Cecelia

Dear Ce Ce, The time is approaching for you to make your final decision in regards to which college you will be attending next year. Go with your gut feeling on this and I promise you will not be disapointed. College is a lot different from high school and it will be a challenge at first to keep up with everything. Here are some of my strategies to help you along the way knowing what I know now about college life. First of all, be yourself and friends will come naturally. I know that was one of your biggest worries but if you make the choice I think you're going to make, you will be fine. Second, make sure to do your Webassign and any other homework the night it is assigned if at all possible. Third, make use of all the tutors and other resources the college provides and don't be afraid to admit that you need help with your studies. Fourth, talk to your professors and get to know them better. They can help you in the longrun. Good luck and stop worrying so much! Future Ce Ce p.s. Get the tupperware!

Anne

I would tell myself to never pass up an opportunity to be kind to others. Also, i would tell myself to continue working and studying hard because it will pay off in the end!

Rita

Dear Rita, I know that you have no idea where you want to go or what you want to do with your life. But to be honest, a lot of college campuses are going to be very similar. Everywhere you go, you're going to meet people, you'll take interesting classes, and you'll have to make decisions that will force you to grow up and mold you into the person you will become. Don't stress too much about the college you choose. Although I don't know if St. Thomas is the ideal school for me, I know that it is a great college that has provided me with many opportunities and will continue to do so. The Career Development Center has many resources that can guide you and there are many activities you can get involved in to meet friends you might keep around for the rest of your life. Just remember: college is what YOU make of it, not what it makes it makes of you.

Ulla

I would tell myself that college is actually a lot of fun and immensely rewarding, and that working hard to keep my grades up pays off. All the socializing is important too, because you take on so much responsibility as you grow up that you no longer will have those opportunities, and so live life to the fullest before you have too much responsibility. I also would say to remember to treat everyone with respect and to always remember those who work for you and treat those people especially well. Also, there's no problem with taking your time in deciding what it is that you would like to do - it's better to gain life experiences than to be going to school for something that you don't feel strongly about. Lastly, I would tell myself to not sweat the small stuff, that life will work out, and there is more support out there than we can conceive of. And, as Garrison Keillor says, "Be well, do good work, and keep in touch."

LaNorra

If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself to take college seriously. College is not like High school, even though it's only my first year of college I learned a lot. You have a lot of freedom in collge but with freedom comes a lot of responsibility. My first semester in college I recieved a 3.44 GPA and I was very proud of myself. College Isn't that hard if you stay focused. In college they give you a lot of information so I would also tell myself to pace myself and dont procrastinate. Procrastination is a problem a lot of high school and college students deal with but if you start the work when it's given and not wait until the last minute you wont run into that problem.

Ryan

I would have told myself to study harder for my first few exams. Also time management is key in college, and I wish I had realized that a little faster than I did first semester. I wish I told myself to utilize Sundays as homework days more effectively.

Kayla

Knowing what I know now about college life and transitions, two pieces of advice that i would give myself are take your grades seriously and save your money. Grades have never been so important untill i began applying to colleges and learning about the addmissions requirements, so to ssave yourself stress later on, work harder in the early years. Another piece of advice that i would give is to save your money. You never realize how expensive your secondary schooling will be untill you recieve the bill in the mail, and depending on your school, not all financial aid will cover it. The more money you save, the easier you can breath when the time comes.

Julia

Knowing what I know now about college life and making the transition, I would remind myself to stay true to who I am. During high school, I found myself to be a self-sufficient and extremely academically focused person. In my first few weeks of college, I found it difficult to be the independent, hard working person I was in high school because of the drastically different environment in which I found myself. I depended on others to help me explore my new world of college. However, once I was acclimated to the college life, I found it easier to be myself and to properly prioritize my life so that I could achieve a successful first semester. Finally being true to myself made for a satisfying semester both academically and socially.

nancy

highschool is the step before college and ultimately it really comes down to u and how hard u work for the grades. everything is done for u they pick ur classes and tell u where to go and the teachers are there to teach u what they know but dont forget about the fact that college is no different its the same as going to high school but this time u go for what degree or career that u want and u will de deciding on the classes u need and the ones that u actually take but hey thats life this is where your future begins and starting from this point your life starts dont screw up its not a joke its your time to prove yourself set a goal and work towards it and keep on moving till youv'e reached the end of the rope but what advice im really trying to tell u is high school is a transition into the real world of education thats where the knowlege from over the years and it this is the ultimate test you have the option of securing ur status in life and highschool should start u off

Tuoi

A year of college experiencing is not much, but it’s enough for me to realize how much my attitude toward education has been changed. I used to be a high school senior so I know how that feels at this important turning point in my education life. Frist thing first, a best way to start my college life is be positive! I know most of high school seniors were really nervous for this new journey because I was as well. I was told and pushed to believe that college would be so hard with tons and tons of works such as papers, reading, projects, and I still remember how frightened I was hearing all that stuff. But a year has gone by, and it’s shown that college isn’t that tough and scary as I was told if myself know how to organize time, and give my whole concentration to the work that I’m doing. A planner should definitely work for time organizing. Be attentive in class, focused in schoolwork. And all I need to do left is a positive attitude, believing and putting my whole effort in it.

Kaelin

At the moment I am a junior in high school, but as I am also a freshman in college, I believe that the most important skill in college is to prioritize time. As my duties have become more extensive the older I get, it seems that the days get shorter and that there is less time to accomplish tasks. Because of this, I've learned that planning out my time and setting up certain hours for specific duties has helped me tremendously. I believe that with the technique of prioritizing I have been able to use my limited hours to study more efficiently and therefore to get better grades. I have been able to get more sleep, as well, so I feel less stressed.

Lauren

Dear 12th Grade Lauren, Congrats, you're almost done with high school! Although high school was fantastic, get ready because college is even better than you could imagine! I have some advice for you; First of all, DON'T STRESS! Grades are important but there is more to life than grades.Don't cram the night before tests-- you might remember the info for the test but you won't remember it long term. Freshman year is amazing because everyone is looking to make friends-- take advantage of this by being friendly. Support sporting events and promote St Thomas pride! Search for genuine people to become friends with. It's important to be surrounded by people who don't party and drink alcohol. Be a role model to others by showing that it's possible to not consume alcohol and still have a fantastic college experience. Most of all, enjoy every second and make the most of ever opportunity. Reap the benefits of your hard work and never forget to smile. Going to college is a blessing-- cherish it!

Leah

I would tell my high school self to take more Advanced Placement courses. It would have helped tremendously to have those credits coming into a four year university. I also would have told myself to volunteer with some local organizations. I personally believe that I was ready for the transition to college/dorm life because of the way I grew up, but if I had been more involved in things throughout high school it would have helped me tremendously.

John

If I could go back in time to talk to myself when I was a senior I would say to be involved in school clubs. I regret not taking part in extra curricular activites at my high school. I went to Wayzata High School which is located in Plymouth, Minnesota. I participated in all my classes but I never though of doing something extra. It felt unnessesary for me because I tought the required basic classes was enough for me to be accepted to a great college. However now I know that its hardly the case. Therefore If I could change my actions in high school I would definately join school clubs like Chineese or German club.

Natalie

With the life situations I've faced since graduation, I'd have to say that I would challenge myself to go to college and do the best that I could while there. To be focused, encouraged,and determined not to fail. I'd also encourgae a good strong work ethic to establish a solid foundation. Now that I have a daughter, I realize that I can only give her the best as I do my best to get the best education available. She is my encouragement, and knowing that I set the stage as she watches me go to school a bring home good grades it motivates her to bring home good grades also. It has also motivated her to want to go on to college. She has asked me numerous times how soon could she start college if she works as hard as me. That makes me want work harder just so I can provide her with ample opportunites to do what ever her heart desires. Its just the two of us, so all I have is her and with the proper education I can encourage and show her how hard work pays off.

Chelsea

I would go back and tell myself not to stress out as much. College was a much easier transition that what I thought it was going to be. Making friends was easier than I thought because people are also searching for friends. I would go back and advise myself not to room with my friend. Living with one of my friends is not easy and I would go back and advise myself to live with a random roommate. Not only does it give you an opportunity to meet someone else, but you can avoid arugments with a friend that you otherwise would not have. I would advise myself to take later classes. I had eight o'clock classes everyday and it took a toll on me. I would advise myself to take later morning classes becasue then you can still get classes done early but you aren't sleep your day away. Those are just a few things that I would go back and advise myself to do and anyone else.

Morgan

If I could somehow turn back time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to keep pushing forward, to not give in to "senioritis." I definitely worked hard in high school and that is demonstrated by my academic record (was valedictorian in a class of 168 students) and heavy involvement in extracurricular activities. Nevertheless, I think I could have done more in regard to receiving outside scholarships. I procrastinated and didn't even think to apply for more than I did. I would also tell the "high school me" that taking every AP and college level course available was a great idea and to never hesitate registering for them. Not only did I challenge myself at the time and learn a lot, but the rigor transferred into my college experience. If I hadn't taken upper-level courses, I think I would have felt much less prepared. And, as it turns out, college has been going just fine. Lastly, I would tell myself to enjoy the time while I could. Senior year was my opportunity to have a little relaxation before the pressure of college and growing up ensued.

Nicole

Looking back at my senior year, I would advise myself to try harder to receive a higher score on my ACT. Although my score was acceptable, I now realize that with a higher score, I may have been elegible for more scholarships, as UST is very expensive. I would have also researched UST more to find out which courses transferred here from the college I took PSEO classes at, because I now realize that I took a few unnecessary classes my senior year. I also regret not doing more volunteer work, as I see now that colleges and communities really appreciate volunteers and I did enjoy volunteering. I would also advise myself to take more math classes, as I choose not to take trig and calc in high school, and I found these courses at St. Thomas very challenging since I had no previous background with this. My goal is to graduate from UST with a great GPA in as little time as possible so I can begin my career in the business world.

Oluwabukola

I would tell myself to not overwhelm myself with courses. To not only be involved and excel academically but take time to invest in freindships. To seek out early on like mided people on campus who I could see myself being friends with for years past college. To truly enjoy my non major classes and try to learn and grow in the required religion and philosophy courses.

Elise

Never ever let anyone influence your decisions. Stick to your gut and your passions and you will end up in the direction you want to go. And read, because I always wish I was able to add more to conversations with others. I wish I were more knowledgable in a variety of subjects and a better writer. If I were to suggest anything to myself, those would be the two things.

Danielle

My advice to myself would be to talk more to the guidance councelor and get everything I needed for the scholarships that were available.

Megan

I would encourage high school students that are preparing for college to think a lot about what they may be interested in studying and pursure a school with this program. I have seen a lot of students waste a significant amount of time and/or money at college becasue the school they went to didn't offer what they desired to study. Also, I would suggest being very attentive to the courses they choose once they begin college. I have wasted money on taking classes that end up being fulfilled by a different class I have to take, when if I would have planned out my course plan more in advance I could have saved time and money. Lastly, I would encourage students to be bold in finding a group of people right away who share the same beliefs and morals as they do. Having support is very important to help you maintain what you hold to be true, but also to grow stronger in character. It is also significant for you to be able to support and encourage others in what they believe. This will help you be the best student and person you can be.

Sarah

I woud tell myself that everyone is different and not everyone will like you. I would tell myself about men and the damage that negative relationships can have on all aspects of life and I would also councel myself to wait for the right guy and not just jump into something because they show interest. That I should wait until I find someone who I am compatible with, someone who doesn't want to control and/or change me. Also I would tell myself that drinking and drugs are not cool and just lead down dark paths. I would explain that even if you aren't imbibing and you have friends that do, watching them traverse through those shadows is almost as bad as doing it yourself and all that pain and disappointment can wear you down. I would tell myself to be as bright, happy, and responsible as I can be and to surround myself with people who mirror and facilitate these qualities. Oh and of course, STUDY STUDY STUDY.

Sam

I would say keep working hard, it will pay off.

Christine

If I could talk to myself as a senior, I would warn myself that I will get very homesick once in college. But I would also tell myself not to give up or be discouraged because it is all going to get better and be worth it in the end. I would tell myself to look forward to the opportunities, friendships, and challenges college would bring but also to cherish my time at home with friends and family. The little things are what matter. I would tell myself how proud I should be of myself for all I have and will accomplish.

Ryan

Ryan, take the time to realize what you want in life because it will make the next 4 years, the best you've ever had. Reflect on what makes you happy and what you enjoy doing. Take some time to research a field your interested and ask general questions to a professional in that field about their work. Think about your moral values that were instilled by your parents and how important they truly are when deciding on a university. These are the factors that should make up your choice in a university because everything else will come naturally. Knowing what you enjoy doing will help decide on a school that offers YOUR kind of program, but the key is to find the school that also gives you the impression of upholding moral virtue. In the end you made the right decision in choosing the University of St. Thomas. As a catholic institution they provide both the religious and moral values that you are looking for in a university. This, along with their well-known academic programs will allow you to form life-long friendships and guide you to a long fulfilling career.

Therese

If I could back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I would tell myself that the most important factor when deciding where to go to school is what the school has to offer. The location, size, and majors are all other important aspects. However, the first priority I would want myself to have in a school is their reputation and how challenging it is. You get out of school what you put in, so I would want a great school that is academically challenging and one that encourages me to do more than just doing homework and taking tests.

Ciara

Preparing to make the significant transition into that of a college freshman is one that in high school, no individual is fully prepared for. After being subjected to this experience, it is easy to go back and tell myself as a senior the essential requirements to ensure that this dramatic change is one worth every piece of effort that goes into it. The most crucial piece of guidance that I would advise to myself would be to choose which college I will attend based solely on my own personal happiness. Making a decision based on family and friends may leave them pleased, however, it is one of the easiest ways to start off your college experience undesirably. Although deceiving with all of the publicity, this process is not a contest. Comparing your wishes to one of your peers’ is only cheating yourself. If you envision yourself more pleased here than anywhere else, your decision is simple: go there. It may not be the highest ranked school on your list, or the most suitable to your academic needs in your parents’ eyes, but don't lose sight that your biggest concern is to ensure that YOU are happy.

Aileen

I would give myself the following advice: Get involved and meet a ton of people right when you get there. If you meet people you get along with well, don't solely hang out with those people. Have them as friends, but don't be afraid to branch out and talk to new people. The people you surround yourself with are very crucial to getting a well--rounded education. If you are always around the same kind of people, you will never learn and experience new things or get differing perspectives. Go out of your comfort zone and get involved.

Deanna

College life is difficult; there's no getting around it. Once you get to college, you are given freedom, responsibility, and independence all at the same time, and it is hard to find your balance. Classes are ten times more work and you actually have to read the material in order to do well. If you want an A, you need to learn how to take good notes, create healthy and consistent study habits, and pay attention in class. One of the biggest lessons you will learn in college is how to get by on very little sleep. You need to prepare yourself for all this and more, because learning how to live on your own, do well in school, participate in clubs and organizations, and balance a social life on top of all that is going to take its toll on you. It sounds horrible now, but when you get there and learn how to balance all these factors in your life, it's going to feel great. You will learn so much, not just in class, but through your experiences, that will help you in life. Your life will become much more enriched through the college experience.

Jackson

Dear JP, You are doing a terrific job with keeping up on your academic work and putting together your applications. I know you feel pretty confident about the schools you've applied for, but take a leap and apply for a well-known school from the Ivy League or West coast. Don't let fear hold you back. I know that applying to schools and having a great senior year can be complicated and intimidating, but you have so much potential that can be put to good use. Wherever you go, you will do great and wonderful things. Put yourself out there and take the leap. Challenge yourself! Push for change you see that needs to happen around you. Don't fear what others think; stand up for what you believe in and don't back down. Your natural leadership abilities are needed to make a difference in the world. Again, don't hold back and let yourself be intimidated. Get out there, and get it done! Sincerely, Jackson

Jessica

Dear High School Senior, Although you feel mature and experienced, you have yet to discover the vast opportunities and experiences that lie outside of your bubble. College is going to open your eyes to so many opportunites, you may feel a little overwhelmed! Just realize that it is alright to take your time and figure out what it is you want to do, you do not have to figure it all out right now. You are at the beginnning of something great and you CAN do whatever it is your heart desires, the sky is truly the limit, please remember that. Please go out and make friends your freshman year, you will meet a lot of very different and unique individuals from whom you may learn a little more about yourself. Stay focused on your goals and keep up with your school work, but make sure you reward yourself with some time off the books and out with friends discovering new things together. You are going to learn a lot about the person you want to be and a lot about life. Enjoy your independence and amongst your schoolwork always make time for family and friends, they're worth it.