University of Utah Top Questions

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

Nyandeng

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Melisse

I would tell myself to apply for scholarships and not just rely on financial aid loans and grants. That way you won’t have had to work a full time job while attending school full time so you can concentrate more on your grades. I would also tell myself to have more fun my senior year. It’s my last year of absolute freedom without financial responsibilities. And I would have stayed my senior year summer to enjoy it to the fullest being with friends and family. I have the rest of my life to be independent and live on my own. I would also tell myself to keep in touch more with my high school friends. That way you have a touch more of home since my family moves around a lot. I would also say to myself to get in a healthy eating habit and exercise regime. It is easier to maintain than with an extended routine than when in college eating whatever you want like junk food. Junk food is just good in moderation you don’t need to go overboard. And last but not least continue to be yourself and have fun discovering the world.

Christopher

Dear Chris, You have some awesome goals and very doable aspirations. Keep up the positive attitude and stay determined! Don't sweat the small stuff like an A- on a test instead of an A. Enjoy your high school experience as much as possible. It's not all about grades and where you get into college, your social life and memories matter too. A word of advice: be more confident in yourself. You are much more capable and talented than you give yourself credit for. Ask the cute girl in your second period class on a date...she might just say, "yes." Get out there and make more memories...you won't regret it. Apply to a few more college than you are planning on. Give yourself options and don't be let down if you are rejected. Colleges don't just look at your GPA...don't panic. Taking Kelsie to the Prom is one of the best decisions of your life. You'll marry her in a couple years and she'll be your biggest fan! P.S. The 90's, bleach-tipped, spiky hair and red parachute pants didn't help with your image buddy! Sincerely, Chris

Elizabeth

If I could go back in time and talk to myself in high school I was say, "take your time." This may sound contradictory to the American philosophy, but knowing what I know now, I believe in taking my time. I believe that 18 is way too young to decide what you want to do with the rest of your life, and way too young to understand the momentousness of higher education. If only I had understood that making two decisions (where to attend college and what to major in) was not just a fun thing all my friends were doing, but was two decions that would affect every other decision I made for the next decade. When I was 18, I majored in art and I enjoyed every minute of painting and sculpting, but did I plan a future with art? No. Now, I am 28 years old and have realized who I really am. I am back in school training to become an Occupational Therapy Assistant. I don't regret my initial decision; I think my art background will actually be beneficial with OT, but I do wish that somebody had told me, "take your time."

Kallen

I am a Junior academically and am a transfer student to the University of Utah. I would have told myself to go immediately up to the University of Utah and not transfer. I would have told myself to immediately get involved in the campus life and not wait until the last years of my college experience to get involved. I would have told myself to get a dorm and live on campus. I am still living at home and feel like that has limited my experiences as far as college life goes. It is nice to save the money and not worry about paying for rent, but the social opportunities and friends I could have made up on campus was not worth the money saved.

Abigail

I would tell myself not to freak out. Some major changes are about to happen, but they are GOOD. You can still keep in touch with your high school friends, and although college classes are sometimes tough, the rewards for working hard and keeping up on the classwork are great. There is so much knowledge to be attained and so many great people out there just waiting for you to meet them. So many great things lie ahead of you! Be excited! Living on your own is a great learning experience, and living on campus is a unique once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. You may have some issues with roommates but learning to deal with problems like an adult is all a part of the college experience. Don't be afraid to ask questions and talk to people, and don't freak out when things don't turn out the way you planned. Everything that happens brings you one step closer to your goals. Grab life by the horns!!

John

I would give the advice that I gave to our eleven children, which is: Follow your passion for learning/discovering. Be disciplined, honorable, diligent in all you choose to do. Stay true to yourself, family, and friends! Be a leader for the things that you believe are true, desirable, and worthy of your efforts. I would give them a copy of "IF" by Rudyard Kipling and paraphrase President Theodore Roosevelt's speech: "In the battle of life it is not the critic who counts. Not the man who points out where the strong man stumbled, or where the doer of the deed could have done better. The credit belongs to the man who is in the arena. Whose face is marred by blood and sweat. Who knows the great efforts, the deep feelings. Who strives valiantly, and falls short again and again. Because there is no effort without failure. Who, in the end, if he succeeds, knows the triumph of high achievement. And, if he fails? At least, fails while daring greatly. So that his place will never be among those cold and timid souls, who never knew either victory nor defeat." Be strong, be true, bold, and endure!

Anthony

One major peice of advice would be to save money. Right out of high school we have very little financial responsibility, and many take it for granted. If I could go back, I would convince myself to take even $50 from every paycheck and put it into some kind of high interest savings account. The money that you save each year could go to tuition for the next year. I would also sit myself down and give the advice to better my study habbits. High school is not nearly as challenging as college, and there are no benificial classes designed to teach you how to study for classes that will challenge you. Those are the two major things I would do; implement a budget and create a study plan. I feel that those things are the biggest challenges to any college student. It just also happens to be that they are also the best road to success for every college student. Being able to manage those aspects of life may not be a surefire path to success, but a student with a few thousand dollars in the bank and a good study plan, is miles ahead of the average student.

Jennifer

I attended highschool over 10 yrs ago, and I did poorly. I would tell myself that actually applying myself to my studies is more important than hanging out with my friends. Also that I should of taken school seriously so that I would of gone to college straight out of highschool instead of waiting 10 yrs, I could of already been finished with my degree. I would tell my earlier self that school is important and that in order to achieve anything in your life you have to have a college degree which takes commitment and hard work. Also that it feels good to get good grades, showing that hard work does pay off. Also that college is a great experiance and that it may seem scary, everyone is there to help and all you have to do is ask, someone will point you in the right direction.

Jasmine

If I could go back, I would tell myself to become more involved on the campus with acitvities and different groups. I would tell myself to put more time and effort into looking for outside scholarship money so my monetary situation would have been a little bit easier. Although I love the school I attend, I would have attended a different school in order to experience a more fruitful college life. I would have chosen to live in the dorms to participate in more of the "college life", and experienced living in a different city than the city I was born.

Samantha

"Sammi, get as involved as you can in college. There will be so many opportunities available to you that it will seem overwhelming, but if you find something that sounds interesting, go for it. Don't only focus on academics. Yes, your classes are important, but so much can be gained from real-world experience. Employers aren't going to look at each class you took; instead, they will pay attention to internships, work experience, clubs, volunteer experience, and what you have done in your community. Plus, you may find a passion for something you never knew existed! Most importantly, don't limit yourself. You're the only one that can stop yourself from doing something, so don't! Just because something seems impossible doesn't mean you shouldn't aspire to it. You will grow so much during college, as a student, as a woman, as a thinker. You will be amazed by what you accomplish in four short years! Don't ever look at someone else's accomplishments and think, 'Well, they're smarter, or more priviledged, or more popular than me.' You are just as capable as anyone else, so set your expectations high, and meet them!"

Francesca

Dear Chesy, I know you’re about to start college and are very excited to begin this new journey but I would like to give you a bit of advice before you go. Learn how to study! I know that high school has been a breeze and that you haven’t really had to take notes or spend a lot of time on homework, however, college is different. Be sure to read the book and complete all of the assigned problem sets. Try to study a little bit every night so you don’t have as much to review the night before the test. Study groups can be helpful but be sure to stay on task while you’re there; sometimes it may be more beneficial to just study on your own. While academics are very important and it requires hardwork to succeed, don’t forget to have fun! Try to get to the gym regularly to help relieve stress and to wind down for the day. I wish you all the best of luck and I know you will succeed. It’ll be over before you know it, so enjoy it while you can! Love,Your future self, Chesy

Travis

While in high school, I participated in several AP courses and received my IB diploma from the International Baccalaureate Organization. I felt overwhelmed and stressed, not to mention the lack of social life that resulted in the vigorous course work and extensive studying away from school. Knowing now what college life is like first hand, I would tell myself to push through the advanced classes, because the hard work has paid off in more than a few ways. One way is the preparation for college like- structured courses. My first few days (and even to an extent now) have felt more at ease because the vigorousness of the courses is nothing new to what I haven't already experienced. Also, the study habits acquired have immensely allotted feasibility in studying at the college level. Probably one of the best advantages from sticking it out was the several credit hours that came forth from completing the tests and earning literally two years of college. I would have to say, however, that the most important thing is live a balanced life. Be physical; play sports. Be smart; study hard. Be you; have fun.

Debbie

Self: Stay in school, study hard, and make solid friendships! Learn as much as you can and keep your open-mindedness. Follow your dreams and stay true to yourself. Set goals and take steps to achieve them. You are never too old to learn. Be forever a student of life. Be kind to others and be of service in your community.

Armin

If I were able to go back in time to when I was a high school senior I would have told my self to learn better studing habits and to try harder in my classes. I would also tell my self to have more comunication with the high school counselor to get more inforemed about what to expect and what thing I should do to prepare my self for collage life.

Sierra

I would tell myselft to take as many A.P. classes that I could. It is much easier in highschool than it is in college. Most of my classes are huge, and I would tell myself to take advantage of the smaller highschool classes that have teachers who care about you and your grades. A.P. classes also has more assignments which is simular to college classes. I would also tell myself to apply for more scholarships and save more money. College is expensive. I would have also told myself to research more about college.

Britney

I would tell myself that applying for all the scholarships that our out there would help so much when it comes to the books, supplies, class, and even lunch. I would also tell myself not to fool around when it came to school and to make sure to keep up all my grades, that partying can wait.

Shelbi

College has been an interesting experience, I don't regret any of the decisions that I've made regarding my education or the actions that I took. Everything I’ve done have taught me something valuable and I wouldn’t replace that with anything. There are a few things that I wish I would have been a little more prepared for; I had no clue the curve ball that college threw at me. I would tell my naive high school self to be more involved in the first year and meet new people, don’t wait around for someone to befriend you but find the courage to step outside of the box that I've lived in for so many years and put myself out there. I would also tell myself to learn good time management at the beginning of the semester when I can develop habits, rather than the end when everything in stressful. Lastly I would tell myself to have fun and enjoy these years; this is a time that is all about you. You make your own decisions, you're finding out who you are as a person, so enjoy life while the possibilities are limitless!

Analeigh

Apply for more colleges than you think you want to attend. Then you will have a larger selection to choose from once you receive acceptance/rejection letters. Ask as many questions as possible, and ALWAYS visit the campus. Don't let you parents or anyone else influence your decision! If you can, talk to some of the students on campus and see if they like going there.

Hilary

“Confidently explore the opportunities provided by the university,” I insist. Giving a half shrug and trying to hide behind my own shoulders, I tell her I regret not taking advantage of so many opportunities. That cannot happen to her, so I tell her what can. “You will spend a semester in Italy. You will be editor in chief of the literary magazine. Your volunteer work at the Women’s Recovery Center will save lives.” I defiantly look my teenage-self straight in the eyes and say, “You will fail. Many times. And after each failure, you will pick yourself up and stand stronger-- because if you don’t, you will grow old, but you won’t grow.” Before leaving, I give her a hug and remind her to love herself. She quietly shuts the door. After hearing the click of the lock, I steal a moment of the night sky, absorbing the warmth of the moon to give myself a swift hug. I walk away, hoping she experiences life for me.

Jessica

I would say don't quit. Although it seems too big, too hard, too much, don't quit. I never gave myself the grace of knowing too big, too hard, too much, so I quit. I am 28 years old now with fours years left to finish my doctorate, and I just now figured out don't quit. Had I knew this when I was in high school I could have saved myself some precious time. Don't let the mistakes of yesterday predict your successes of tomorrow. If you make a mess of your plans, clean it up, and try not to make that mistake again. Oh, and you will make mistakes. Just remember it is what you learn from them that will set you apart from the rest. Take time and truely understand what it is you want to do with your life, and don't waste your parent's money. You will find out soon you are going to have a better appreciation of a dollar. Love will come and love will go. Just remember when the world, college, life gets too big, too hard, or too much, don't quit.

Cheryl

I would tell myself to pay more attention in class and to try not to take the easy way out. Choose classes that are going to better prepare you for college so that when you enter college, you won't have to begin at the bottom. an example; while a freshman in high school my classes were chosen for me and pre-algebra was one of those classes. My next year I could choose the classes myself and instead of going on into algebra, I chose to go backwards and take math II. Big mistake, because I done well in the class and could have passed algebra, I believe, as well but never tried. I took the easy way and now I am having to start over in math which has set me back and therefore taking longer to earn my degree. What I know now would have helped me in high school as well as college, but I wanted to take the easy way out. The easy way is not always the best way especially when it comes to your education. If I could go back and change that decision I would.

Heidi

If I could go back in time to high school and offer some advice that would help me succeed, I would say make sure to enjoy the moment. Carpe diem, sieze the day. I remember thinking that I could not wait to get out of high school so that I could begin my life. I did not take high school too seriously and just went through the motions of going to school. I was not involved in many clubs, sports or volunteering. I could have got better grades then I did or made more friends then I did. I was just not thrilled to be in high school and looking back, I could have made my high school experience much more enjoyable. If I could go back in time, I would participate in as many clubs that I would have time for and put more effort in my schoolwork. Another thing that I would change is that I would put more emphasis of figuring out what type of activities I love and ultimatley find out what I would want ot major in. These things could have saved me more time and money which would have assited my overall college experience.

Michelle

If I could go back and tell myself advice now, I would tell myself to take off a year or more prior to starting college. College is not just about learning a field, it's about discovering who you are. However that is really expensive if you don't know what you want to study. I really wanted to study writing and literatue but thought I should study something I could make money in instead. I am now quitting that job in the sciences after twelve years to go back to school to pursue the degree I wish I had the guts to get in the first place. I would tell myself to study what makes me happy, not what makes money. Money will come if knowing how to make yourself happy is there first.

Nicole

The most important thing to do to get ready for college is to study hard and get good grades so that you have the chance to get good scholarships because it is really hard to pay for college if you do not have these scholarships. It is also important to continue to work hard so that you can keep your scholarships. Get to know your professors and students because they will help you through your school years and can help you in the future to get a good job. Never give up and focus on your school work.

Ann

Almost everyone could say that high school was centered around pleasing those around you. Always trying to fit in or get in with the cool kids. If I could go back to when I was in high school I would tell myself not to worry what other people think. Nobody cares when you get into college. Going to school in sweats? Great! Everyone and their dog do it in college. Don't worry whether someone is going to think you're weird or a genius or crazy. You meet so many new people every single day, you're bound to find someone who appreciates your craziness or the things that make you unique. I would tell myself to never hide who I am and always express myself how I want to express myself. I wasted too much time worrying what people would think if I made certain decisions or did certain things and it was all for nothing. You get to start fresh in college and the more you share your true self the more people will be drawn to you.

Ethan

If I could go back and give myself advice at the perspective of a high school senior I would inform myself of many things. For one I would express the need to hang in until the end and continuosly try your best because it will be very worth it in the long run. It would appear that I somewhat 'gave up' at the end of my senior year. I would want to tell myself to hang in their and work my hardest until the end. I would also want to tell myself to truly do some investigating before actually going to College. Exploration of many options is needed at that age in life. Even for those who are set on something that interests them, they need to make sure that that field of choice will hold out for them in the years to come; if its income could support a family, if that field will continue to give them enjoyment, and if it will continuosly be dependable? Nobody likes getting into the position that I am in now and realising that their field of choice just is not going to work for them. At length choose wisely and work hard.

Emilee

Live it up while you can because this time in your life only comes around once. Find something you enjoy doing, then stick to it even when the going is tough. Soak up all the experiences that come your way and always look for the positive. Study hard, but find time to have fun. Find those that have similar goals for school and form a small study group and within that you may discover a few friendships. Hold onto those. Living at home is great to save money but, if able, move out. You will gather a completely different experience from college and even more opportunities to make lifelong friends. Take the chance to live independently and gather life experiences that will help you in your future. Most importantly, always respect and be honest with those you associate with. Professors, fellow classmates, roommates, etc... you're life will be better off because of it. Life happens, so enjoy it.

Dustan

I would tell myself to "know yourself". Knowing who you are and what you can and can't do is important. It is also important to know what you are and aren't willing to do to achieve your goals. There are many opportunites in college to learn and grow, but there are also many opportunities to get lost. As a college student, your life is much less structured than high school so you need to stay focused and keep your head up. Talk to your professors. Use them as resourses not only for your classes but also for any other questions you might have. In other words, find a mentor. Don't be shy. Be willing to explore. Don't be so fixed on getting A's that you don't have fun. Finally, relax and just do your best.

Alexis

I would let myself know about the major I am now in and some class ideas. I could have made less mistakes if I didn't have to change majors and fit courses in.

Carol

I graduated from Highschool at age 14 and imediately started into college. I had no idea what I was getting myself into, but I graduated with an associates at age 18. I am now currently working on my bachelors degree. If I could go back and tell myself what I know now, I would tell myself to have taken a second language class in High School, because it would have automatically made me qualified for an extra grant. I would have told myself to work harder, because the extra points in my GPA really do matter. I would have told myself that when starting college make sure to be more involved in school activities to learn more about different opportunities. I would have encourged myself to give more to the community and not be embarrassed to volunteer my time to school fund raisers. I was younger than my other college class mates and was shy. I would have told myself there is no need to be shy, be proud of who you are, get yourself out there and get involved!

Madison

If I could go back in time to give myself advice about college I would have a lot to say. First, I would tell myself to get up and apply for scholarships. I was lazy, didn't apply for many, and ended up paying for it later. I would also tell myself to get more involved in school activities and community activities. Not only would it have helped me with my college applications but it would also have given me a wider range of scholarships I could apply for. The last thing I would tell myself would be to do more stuff without my family. I was and still am a homebody. While I live in the dorms and do have independence it would have been an easier transition if I had done that.

Brigham

Look, let me tell you something, I know you wanna conquer the world, but your college education. Do not take it forgranted, in a few months you will make a decision that will change the rest of your life. Join the Army or continue college, If i were you I would join the military, wait for the recruiter to call you if you want, dont forget your Eagle Scout for PV2. Start college after you return from training, it will work out better that way, continue college, make SGT in the Reserves. Do not join active duty till after you completed two or three smesters and you have matured a little bit more for the Army , or you will lose your SGT fast, whatever you do make it to Ft Lewis, Wa, if you keep your MOS learn everything you can from SGT Cannon. Continue your education, take at least one course a semester. Raise your GT Score, always do PT and hit the gym no matter what. don't forget things youve wanted to do. your down the road from Las Vegas. Do not get married before you go active duty. Don't forget, have fun while your young.

Anna

Be yourself at all times! The first few weeks of school are hectic, and you may not know where you'll fit in right away. Don't join the golf club just because the guys are cute - you don't even like golf. Be friendly with everyone you meet, but remember, you want friends who like you for you, not just party buddies. Find people in your classes who have the same interests as you and hang out with them. Eventually, you will find your place in the hetic social world at the U. Don't forget to study. Just because you aren't being given homework every night doesn't mean you can just ignore the notes you've taken. Read them over every night, even if you are just skimming for keywords in the last hour before you go to bed. It may seem like a hassel, but when finals come (and they will be there much sooner than you anticipate) you'll be glad you took the extra time then, instead of having to cram the night before like your roommates. Good luck! Be yourself and study hard!

Kimberly

Chill out. I was so scared especially since I was going out of state and apply for more scholarships through the University of Utah. Also try and join a club. Your friends you make will be your friends through the rest of college.

Kjera

I would have told myself to take more education courses, and more biological science courses. My major has changed from nursing to education. I didn't have very good advisement at Salt Lake Community college though, and I feel that was very detrimental. I feel that I waited a lot of time, and money on courses that were unnecessary! I would have set myself up so that after I transfered from SLCC to the University of Utah I would be more on track to graduate with my major, minor, and teaching licence.

APRIL

I would tell myself not to spend so much time at the community college level because my first year at the University of Utah I still didn't know what I wanted to study. At some point you are going to have to declare a major and being on campus at the University of Utah had more of an impact on me in many ways. I joined a church, declared a major and got a work study job. I also had to talk to a couselor when making the transition from community college to the University level because I was so stressed out. I would tell myself not to worry so much, school is a great expeirence and worth all the time and effort.

Jessie

If I could go back to my high school self, I would advise me to take as many college credit high school course possible that would transfer to your college choice. More importantly, though, I would advise myself to save as much as possible to fund college tuition instead of borrowing student loans. Student loans add up really easily and much too quickly. I have learned and continue to learn the value of my college education, but I am also learned the cost of earning that piece of paper. If I had done so -just a job working 20 hours a week earning $8/hr - I would not be in any student loan debt now and worrying if I will find a good enough job to make $300 monthly student loan payments. Save for your education; it's worth the time and investment you put into it.

Roseanna

Listen, Roseanna. Right now, it seems like the only thing that matters is how many friends you have and who likes you, but you should know that none of it matters once you leave this place. Nevermind those that might make fun of you for doing well in school or because you are different. Thank them and move on. You should apply yourself now and reap the rewards later. Be ready to study and say "yes" to every person that asks you if you want to study with them. It will only help you. You are a smarter that average person and you catch on very quickly. You have the potential to do great things in this world. The more you apply yourself, the easier the material is for you to grasp. And, one last piece of advice............sit in the front row of every class, this way you won't be distracted by everyone else playing games on their laptops.

Tyler

Tyler, keep in mind that you are capable and strong. Remember to put in the effort to get good grades in the beginning so you don’t have to repeat classes. Find time to have fun and don’t take what people say to seriously. Live closer to campus and ride your bike to class as often as possible. Make friends with your professors, wear bright colors and speak up so they know who you are. They will be your best resource for help and advice. Teach yourself something new every day and relate it to your studies. This way you will always be one step ahead of the next person. Always remember to help others because when you’re down they can help you up. Also, don’t underestimate yourself. You have abilities that you could never imagine, find them within yourself and use them. Dream big because your dreams will take you and your family around the world. Believe me, the sky is the limit.

Danielle

If I could visit my high school self today, I would first just laugh. My biggest problem in life has always been over-thinking and worrying so much about the future I can barely enjoy the present. Looking back at myself as a senior -all sweaty and stressed about deadlines, assignments, applications, friends, college, you-name-it - all my worries just seem so ridiculous. None even came true: I did make it to college and survived the first year, I got a 4.0, I made all my deadlines and appointments, and I even still have friends. My advice to myself would be to relax, to enjoy the process of becoming a college student, and to take pride in my accomplishments so far. Hard work is extremely important to me, but it sometimes comes at the cost of my own happiness. These years as a bright-eyed young adult are fleeting. My present self smiles at that scared little senior and says, "You're going to be fine."

Aiesha

I truly wish I could go back in time. I would have told myself, you cannot achieve anything without a college education. College prepares you for the many difficult obstacles you will face in your life. College is a very rewarding experience financially as well. I definitely would have told myself to hang in there, especially with the economic crisis we are facing. I also would have reminded myself that you do not want to be a 30 year old single mother; trying to start over. Raising my two year old daughter and working a dead end job is definitely a losing battle. I would have told myself, if you continue to press forward you could have the American Dream by 30 years of age. Luckily, it is never too late too fulfill your dreams.

Alicia

If I had the chance to talk to myself as a high school senior I would encourage myself to retake the ACT and actually study for it. I would also tell myself it is well worth the time and effort to spend endless hours applying for as many scholarships as humanly possible even if they include reading some crazy book or writing and 15 page essay. I would also tell myself that even though a B letter grade is fantastic reaching for that A even if you don't acheive it is worth the study hours. Along with that I would encourage myself to take the advanced placement tests at the end of the year to save myself from paying for the actual college course. Lastly, I would tell myself to stop worrying about what everyone else wants and expects and to do what I want and to follow my dreams becauce ultimately it is my life and if I am not happy with it than it does not matter whose expectations I filled.

Tammy

I have not yet attended college, but there is plenty that I would tell my high school senior self knowing what I know now. Being a high school senior was fun and games. It was like a big social gathering, and learning was put on the back burner. Knowing what I know now, as an adult, in the real world, trying to make ends meet, I would tell myself, "stay in school, and learn everything that you can to be a better you." Life as an adult is hard, and with out a good education, it is even harder. The transition into college is difficult I am sure, but even more difficult is making the mistake of not making that transition at all. I know I didn't exactly answer the question per se, but under my own personal circumstances, this is the best answer that I could give. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Jared

Take advantage of the opportunities to be unique. Don't worry about being different. If something sounds interesting, go for it!

Jessica

If I could go back in time to give myseld advice, I would have saved myself a lot of trouble. In high school you are so worried about little, meaningless things that it distracts you from what is really important. I would tell myself to not try to fit in. It only holds you back. If you want to achieve great things, you can't be scared to stand out from the crowd. Of course there are lots of things that I wish I would have known back in high school, but the truth of the matter is, I can't go back and change things. I have to learn from my mistakes. And that is the beauty of life. We make mistakes, and if we recognize them, they make us stronger.

Laramie

Laramie, I know that now is a stressful time for you. What colleges are you going to apply to? You have no clue what you want to pursue as a career. There are so many questions that are followed by uncertainty. Do not allow yourself to become bewildered. I know that the weight of expectation is laden upon your shoulders. Persevere. Take the advice of those around you, however, listen to the wisdom of your own voice as well. Do not silence yourself. Although it may feel as if your life is too slippery to clutch, hold on. This is a time for experiment. The fear of failure will only serve as a burden. I know that you are afraid. You want to accomplish so much but are scared to fall short of those goals. You will never hit a target unless you aim. You are a stubborn girl, but from one headstrong girl to another, "Ready, aim, and fire!" You never know what the future will bring until you submurge yourself in the present. I believe in you and pray that you can one day believe in yourself as well. Your future is aglow. Don't snuff the flame.

Michael

The greatest personal success can be found in college when you find a love of learning. When you go to class and you are excited because you are going to learn something new. With this kind of attitude, you are happier in all the other aspects of your life. You wake up excited for the day, you have the desire to get involved, and it's easier to meet new people and build lasting friendships. If your goal for school is to just get through so you can get a high paying job, or because your parents wanted you to go, or for other extrinsic reasons, your experience will not have the joy that it could have had if your focus on going to school was to learn, and that you loved it. I would have tried to cultivate that attitude while I was in high school, because it would have made school work much easier, productive, and enjoyable.

Mallory

I have gotten more than I could ask for out of my college experience thurst far. I had the oppertunity to do a study abroad in Spain this summer. I have been able to get a job in a lab at the Huntsmen Cancer Institute and be a peer adviser for incoming freshmen. There is a surprising diverse student body, formed of mostly out of state students whos love for the outdoors brought them to Utah. As well as a large percentage of international students.

Deb

I have gained absolute confidence to further myself, better myself and succeed. College is a place where my hard work and effort is rewarded, making me feel intelligent, valuable, and deserving.