University of Wisconsin-Madison Top Questions

If I was able to go back in time and talk to myself so I could've made an even smoother transition, then the first thing I would undoubtedly have told myself was to be prepared for the greatly increased amount of "free" time that I would be recieving. While I knew as as high schooler that there would be lots of extra time in college, I didn't really think about all the temptations that would accompany this time. As a senior in high school, whenever I would think about all the hours of time that I would get away from class I would always automatically

The main advice that I would give to myself would be to not stress myself out with every little thing that happens because as long as I put time and dedication into what I do, my work will not be in vain. While it may seem that your whole life is riding on an A or B in a class, having that mind set will not serve in your best interest. Grades are very important, especially in college, but in stressing yourself out, those grades will become farther away from reality as you will not be thinking clearly and rationally about how to approach the major obstacles that are stopping you from achieving the grade you desire. Along with this piece of advice I would tell myself to be open to any opportunities that are presented to you because without being open, you will never be able to experience college to the fullest. Ambition is absolutely the biggest necessity for having a successful college career because opportunity will not seek you out, you have to take the initiative and take opportunities as you see them.

If there were one thing I could tell my past self, it would be that I must develop some study skills so I can use them in the future. Once in college, I found that I could no longer slide by as I had done in high school. College requires study, practice, and review: things that I had not done in high school. My problem was this: college courses cover material at a much faster rate, and I wasn?t learning the material fast enough. I was attempting to devote as little attention as possible to my studies, hoping it would be enough to get by. It worked in high school, didn?t it? As it turns out, college is an entirely different beast, and different strategies are required to tame it. If I had explored just a little farther than what the classes covered in high school, it would have given me a drive to learn that I could apply to my college courses. As of now, I have a hard time putting down my video games down to devote myself to that one extra hour of study. My past self can't fix this problem, so I will.

Just be yourself. I know it's completely cliche, but it's true and I never understood how true until attending college. In college, you find people who accept your flaws and you realize all those people who brought you down continually throughout high school were never true friends. The effort spent trying to fit in and homogonize yourself was never worth it. While it may be hard to stay true to yourself, you'll come out on top in the end. You'll find people who love you for who you are, not who you have made yourself become. Just remember that it gets much better when you find the place right for you and remember that high school is never easy for everyone. Even the most priviledged students struggle, so don't waste time comparing yourself to them.

The first piece of advice that I would give myself as a senior in high school would be to relax! There were so many things that I stressed out about that were simply out of my control. I would tell myeslf that yes, the school work is much harder than it was in high school but I am prepared and have the tools it takes to focus and study yet still have fun. I would definitely remind myself that being myself is the best way to make friends and that people will like me just for who I am. I would tell myself to make sure I spoke to my family and best friends in some way at least once a day because it is amazing how they can make me smile no matter how tough my day was. Finally, I would tell myself to just calm down and not worry about things like my roommate, what sorority I would be in, or being homesick. I would tell myself that I only get to experience college once, and to take in absolutely every single minute of it because once it is gone, I can never get it back.

As a high school senior, I honestly didn't know what to expect out of college life. I didn't have too many expectations, but I did have one large one. Along with it's excellent academic reputation, I had always heard about how many activities the UW- Madison campus had to offer, such as different clubs, various guest speakers, and exciting concerts. I expected to be doing all of these things, along with studying hard. But now that I have been in college for nearly two years, I rarely have time for such exciting activities. I always knew that college would be difficult and I would have to study constantly, but I felt that I would have time to do all kinds of things, even volunteer. Reality is, I spend most of my time studying and working. If I could give myself advise as a senior, I would say to try not to create any expectations. Just be postive , excited, and keep an open mind, and you will find your place in college, and do your best to find what works for you.

If I could go back in time and give my senior self some advice, I would let myself know that the transition from high school to college isn't as hard as teacher, counselors, and books have made it seem. Going into college I thought that it would take forever to make new friends. That for the first few weeks I would have to experience all these new things on my own. But in reality within just hours of saying goodbye to my parents, I had already made at least four friends, not including my roommate too. Another thing I would tell myself is to not be scared to experience new things. Because I think that I missed out on some things. Like I wish now that I would have joined a couple of clubs or an intramural sport. I feel like I have missed out on things, but at least there is always next year. Lastly I would tell my senior self to relax. I stress out about many things, that now looking back I didn't need to be stessed about.

I like to think I made an easy transition from high school to college. I was lucky that I was an independent person in high school. I was used to basically being in charge, I got up when I wanted, went to sleep when I wanted, made my own meals, that kind of stuff. I did a lot of my daily things for myself, I didn?t rely on my parents for that much, and they gave me a lot of freedoms. So in that sense I think I was ready for the day to day activity of taking care of myself. However, there was nothing I could to prepare for the emotional side of living by myself away from my family and friends. The first couple of months of college can be very lonely. So if I could go back in time and talk to myself in high school, I would tell myself to enjoy my time in high school with my friends and family and stop wishing I was already in college. College will come soon enough and it will be a lot of fun, but it?s different then high school so enjoy it while you can.

There is a ton of advice I give myself to make the tranisition into college life easier. The first thing I would tell myself would be that the college homework load is like nothing you have ever experienced. Not only is there a ton to do, but it also very challenging. You will definitely not be bored in college because beyond demanding homework, you need to have a life. You need balance between school, work and play otherwise you might just go insane. I would tell myself that excerise is vital and that no matter how bogged down with homework I may be, going to the Natatorium regularly is a necessity. Another important thing in college is sleep, so despite the fact that staying up late and hanging out with friends is fun, it's not something you want to every night. Overall I would tell myself to enjoy college and remember that the reason you are there is to get a education.

The biggest advice I would give to myself is to practice more discipline. I did not realize until I went away how much I still relied on my parents and other external influences to effectively manage my time and activities. At college, it has been difficult for me to study and keep other healthy activities up as these external influences are no longer there. I would tell myself to learn how to go to bed even with distractions and wake up with plenty of time to get ready for the day. Most importantly, I would tell myself of the importance of studying, something I underestimated until finals, and by then it was too late to do that most effectively for me. And so my grades are nowhere near what I wanted or expected for my first semester.

When I applied for college as a high school senior, I was only concerned about the academic reputation of the colleges that I applied to, which is how I ended up at the University of Wisconsin- Madison. However, after attending Madison for a semester, I am extremely unhappy because I do not fit in. Although academics are important, I understand now that there are many other factors that are needed to achieve success, such as happiness and great friends. I wish that I could have visited more campuses and found a place that I could truely call home, a place where I was excited to live. I also wish that on my tours, I would have asked the guides about the social atmosphere and people who attended the school so that I could have gotten a better idea of how I would fit in on campus. Going to college is a life changing experience. It is not only about attending school, but also exploring the world and yourself. In retrospect, I wish i would have though of college as an experience and found my "true fit" instead of settling for "poor fit", but highly recognized academic institution.

Knowing what I know about college life and the transition required to adjust there are a lot of things I would go back and advise my high school self. First off, college life is full of the stereotypes that are shoved into our minds through the media, teachers, and parents throughout the yeras. However, I would advise myself to branch out and not conform to one stereotype. When confined into one stereotype it is difficult to branch out and experience the full campus life. Second, I would advise myself to get a good start in academic responsiblities. College is full of distractions and its easy to get caught up in them right away. My high school doesn't prepare you for the work load that comes with college, so therefore I would advise myself to stay on top of reading and be self-motivated in studies for all of my classes. Finally, I would advise my high school self to keep an open mind. I grew up as a pretty sheltered child, so I would advise myself once in college to try new things and don't be afraid or hesitant when presented with new opportunities.

As a high school senior, I felt confident about making the transition from high school to college. I had seen my older sister successfuly transition to the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where I would soon be joining her. I had read books about what to expect freshman year, and had even watched movies just to get a taste of college life. However, until I actually found myself surrounded by complete strangers in my dorm, or spending late nights at the library, or missing my family, did I realize what challenges a new college student faces. Now, after completing my first semester I reflect back and realize that those strangers in my dorm are now my family, and that studying at the library payed off as my transcript reflects a 4.0. The advice that I would give to myself as a high school senior would be to take full advantage of a situation where no one knows you or your past. This is your chance to leave all of the high school drama and stereotypes behind and let others see you for who you are. Also, take pictures. This isn't a time you will want to forget!

I would tell myself that attending a tri-mester college is a lot harder then I imagine and to buckle down; I can't just wait to figure out that small step in calculas which doesn't matter all that much. I should get help as soon as I need it. Also, I should probably just attend the cheaper East Stroudsburg University down the road rather then going to the much more expensive Drexel University. I would probably wonder why, but in the end I would be unable to get private loan to attend the other college and would only have one term of credits transfer out of the three term year. However, I might consider the fact that going there was worth the experience, so I would tell myself to just study hard to make transfering easier; also to make sure I know VERY early what my loan status for the following year is so I don't find out after admissions for all colleges are locked i have no-where to go. Also for one last word of advice I would tell myself to savor every moment, I'll never know when it's going to be over.

Suddenly you find yourself in May of your senior year, about to graduate, say goodbye to friends and family, and leave for college. This will be your first time living away from home, and I know you're excited and nervous. Here are a few things to remember as you start your new life next fall: 1) Sleep. Just because class no longer starts at 8:00 every morning doesn't mean it's okay to stay up until 3:00 every night. If you keep regular waking hours, you'll feel better and get more accomplished. 2) Experience. This is also your first time living in a city. Take advantage of the opportunities there; go to concerts, museums, ethnic restaurants, etc. Get involved in campus clubs and activities. 3) Relax. You have more homework, papers, and readings than before, and they're more challenging. Don't get too overwhelmed. Make a checklist and work your way down it. You'll feel better after finishing one assignment than after worrying about five. 4) Prioritize. Your new friends are great, but that doesn't mean you need to spend every evening with them. Make time for studying and for yourself.

One of the most important pieces of advice I would give to myself as a high school senior would be to simply relax and not get too overwhelmed with the change in environment. Jumping into a new routine was somewhat stressful for me, but the key to being successful is to not letting the little things get to you. Just because you got a C on your first chemistry test doesn?t mean the world is going to end. It is important to learn from your mistakes and base your future decisions off of them. Another thing I would like to go back and tell myself would be to not try to compare myself and my work to others. Every person learns and grows at their own pace and if you get caught up trying to measure up to them, you won?t get anywhere. It is vital to do the best that you can and not base your life off of someone else?s.

Apply for as many scholarships as possible as early as possible. When your parents constantly get on your case about applying for them, it is for your own benefit, and you should take this advice to heart. It doesn't take that much effort, and sacrificing one or two hours of fun here and there to fill out a few applications will not be such a terrible thing. The potential of winning free money for college is something that you should not pass up because the immense amount of money you will have to pay back in student loans after you get your degree is a burden that nobody wants to face. Not only will a scholarship help you in the long run in terms of staying out of debt, but they will also lift a lot of the stress off of you during the school year. Believe me, college is full of stress already. You will be challenged like never before, but you can rise to the challenge. There is nothing to fear. College is just another new experience. Any anxiety beforehand will quickly lift once the time comes. College is a great experience, and you'll love it.

I would tell myself that out of state schools aren't as important as I thought they were, I don't need to go to the most famous/ most expensive school, and even if you live just a couple hours from home there's still plenty of freedom. In fact, there are a lot of benefits to living near your parents. I would also say that college isn't going to be as easy as high school, in spite of being valedictorian. And I would say, "Take your first semester easy, by taking many classes that your AP classes already counted for, since it will help you know your material more thouroughly." I would tell myself to do a major that I find interesting before a major that I thought was more practical. I would tell myself to pick out a club that I intrinsically find interesting rather than a few that I thought looked good on a resume. Most importantly, I would say, "Stop being so lazy, and start forming good habits that you know will make your life better, because in college you have to fend for yourself, and no one's going to do you favors anymore."

If I could meet myself as a high school senior with my current knowledge, I would offer the advice to abandon social networking sites and be a more accountable friend. Thinking back on my life and how much time I have needlessly spent on the internet chatting, updating Facebook, and playing silly games, I am quite embarrassed. I could have spent much more time with friends building real relationships. I think hanging out with friends is more fun then online chatting anyway and helps maintain social interaction skills that are so often set on the back burner in the age of the "txt". I see the onset of cellular phones coincide with the abandonment of friendship accountability. It is too easy to change plans on the fly just because you recieved a text about another event. RSVPing has no use anymore since Facebook has a "maybe" button. This advice boils down to people should be more courteous: Your friends can depend on you, and in turn, you can depend on your friends. I think this advice can improve your life in college and the lives of your friends and is the best life advice I can give to students.

If I could go back and give myself advice I would say many things, but the most important would be to continue to work hard. Many students, including myself tend to ease up and not work as hard during their senior year in high school. However, this can be a very costly mistake to make. It is much more difficult to adjust to college and all the hard work that comes with it, if you don't already have good habits. Students should continue to study hard during their senior year so they are in a good routine once their college classes start. Also, it is helpful to take some AP classes so students can get an idea of what course material and tests are like in college. If you can get into good daily study habits, then the transition to college will be much easier, and you will receive better grades.

When I was a high school senior, I did not have the slightest idea what I wanted to do for a career or where to go to college. I started out at the local community college. Two years later, I transferred to the state's university. Knowing what I do now, if I could talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to stick to the same path. At the time, I was not ready to live on my own or attend a large university many miles from home. By living at home for an additional two years after high school, I was given the opportunity to work several jobs, save money, and focus on school. After attending the state university for one semester, I am certain I took the right road. The transition from living at home to living at a large university would have been overwhelming. I am very pleased with where I am at and would tell my high school self to attend the community college to prepare for life at the state university.

I would advise myself of three important things. First, keep an open mind, no matter what. There is nothing that can be more crippling to an individual in their ability to succeed in college and in life than to reject the valubale ideas, opinions, and information available in the world. Second, take every opportunity to meet new people that you can, though it may be uncomfortable at first. The relationships that I have formed in the past four years have proven to be my most valued college expereince above almost everything else. Lastly, remember to relax and enjoy. We get to live only once, are young only once, and have this sort of freedom only once. Make the most of it!

I would tell myself that the most important thing to remember is don't forget who you are now and why you are going to college. Going into my freshman year I just kept thinking that it would be so great to just start over and meet new people. I was also excited to experience new things and I didn't have the same boundaries that I held in high school. Well that was not a good idea because I did things that I know were wrong and against my morals. I wish I could have told myself to stay close to God and don't do anything that Jesus wouldn't do. The first month of college I didn't even go to church or anything. I know if I would have, I wouldn't have done the things I did because now I don't. I would also remind myself of the reason I am going to college. I have been blessed with this opportunity that many of the people in my family never received and I am there to get a degree so I can get a job that will provide for my family.

If I could go back and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to relax and not take everything so seriously. Everything works out in the end and you should enjoy life while it is happening.

I would tell myself that I'm going to end up just fine, regardless of whether I got that A on that last calculus test or biology project. I would stress the importance of doing what I loved, and making choices to pursue what I am passionate about instead of simply focusing on grades, tests, and GPA. Learning in high school should be an introduction to the great variety of subjects in life and I should enjoy it and savor the different aspects by appreciating how great each field can be. I'd also tell myself that this is only the beginning. While I may have felt that I was finally done, I should've realized that high school was more of a preparation stage, the training stage, for so much more. Finally, I would tell myself that high school trends are dumb, popularity is stupid. Eventually, everyone finds their niche in this world and Ishouldn't have to sacrifice who I am to try to conform to groups I don't even care about. While making friends during this memorable time is important, I should always remember who I am, making sure that I am unforgiving in accepting myself.

Gazing across the blue waters of Lake Mendota, the wind stirs the silence, and I recall how frightened I was as a new student, standing on the same cliff. How could I know then, what I know now? If I could go back to my senior year of high school, I would whisper into my ear and provide advice to ease the transition from high school to college. I would tell myself to take a deep breath and remain confident. Confidence would push me to join study groups, clubs and other campus organizations that promulgate social interaction. Becoming engaged with campus groups would connect me to other new students who share my thirst for new friendships. I would also advise myself to keep my values and study hard. Sustaining my moral standards and work ethics would frame my judgment and tell me when to party and when to go the library to study. ?Stay true to yourself,? I would whisper. Today, I am a confident freshman with a 4.00 GPA and many new friends. I am following my own advice with both passion and purpose.

Don't be nervous, you are going to make plenty of friends and have a lot of fun at college. Don't go over board with spending your money save it up so if you get to study abroad in the Summer and so you can buy a football ticket. Football ticket go on sale in the summer so get on that ASAP. Also don't eat too much of the school's food it seems that it is making you gain some weight so try to go shopping for food at the grocery store...NOT WALGREENS, they will rip you off. Chemistry and Statics are going to be some tough classes so get help right away and don't procrastinate on any assignments. Good luck chica and have a great time. Peace

It?s a few minutes after three and I should be out of the doors any minute. I?m not sure why I feel so nervous waiting for myself after school, what did I want to say again? Ok breathe, I?m going to tell myself that I know I?m having senioritis and I?m not quite ready to leave high school but I have to push past that and really focus on scholarships. I?ll promise that they help, a lot, and mom and I won't be as stressed. I have to say that college is more difficult than high school and it takes some adjusting but I should be in the swing of things by second semester. I don?t want to scare myself so I?ll mention that I?ll make some really good friends and my high school friends are always there when I?m feeling home sick. Most importantly I can?t always be focused on school; I have to get out and try new things and not wait to join the sailing club! Ok I?m not nervous anymore, and perfect timing because I see myself now!

Dianna don't worry. College won't be hard as long as you, schedule classes consecutively, if you have a two hour break it will be hard for you to get up and go to the last class. Make going to the library a weekday nightly thing, so that every day you are making sure you are academically invested in your work. Don't be afraid to ask for help and you can always drop a class if you've exhausted all academic options. Remember to keep a day to yourself where you can relax and do whatever. The freshman fifteen is very real so schedule working out like a class. Don't pick a job that's frustrating if you must work (and preferably one that doesn't require much work.) Explore the campus and accept that this is where you're at. Life is what you make it. So even if you hate it, keep your future in mind. College will be a great experience.

I would caution myself against staying in my dorm for the first week and being withdrawn in class. In the beginning is when everyone is out and about, meeting people, etc. and it's easier to make friends right away than to try and insert yourself later. Also being more vocal in class earlier, especially in large lectures, brings you to the attention of the professors and opens the communication lines between you. A professor is more likely to spend extra time working with a student who stands out to them than one that just fades into the mist.

Hey Victoria, listen up now! Relish the carefree aspect of your senior year, because "everything's gonna change" in college. No-one will be looking over your shoulder making sure you're doing your homework, rather than skypeing your friends or downloading music on I-Tunes. And the parties! You think you know parties? Well, understand that college can be a nonstop party - until the grades come in, that is. Then the party's over, and you'll have your parents to answer to if you don't excel in your studies, while staying in shape and doing community service as you've been raised to do. This is your last chance to get yourself organized, because once your parents deposit that final box in your dorm room and kiss you goodbye, you're on your own. Nobody to clean your room, do your laundry or replenish your personal supplies; for heaven's sake, how will you accomplish it all if you don't make a plan and stick to it? You'll be doing everything at the last minute, that's what, pulling all-nighters because a paper is due, and you chose to play first and pay later.

I am extremely satisfied with my decision to attend the University of Wisconsin - Madison. However, if I could go back and change something about my senior year, I would have decided to take more AP classes. I did take two my senior year, but didn't try too hard and only got credit for one on the AP test. Some of my friends at school came in with over a semester's worth of credits. Money is a major factor for me. My parents divorced and spent most of my college fund on legal fees. If I took more AP classes I would have been able to get more college credits and potentially graduate a semester or two early. This would have saved me tens of thousands of dollars.

Relax about college. It will be a difficult journey, but plenty of people can help you along the way: advisors to get you on the right track to getting a degree; teachers, teachers aids, free tutors, and other students to help whenever you are in a bind and cannot understand something; and counselors to aid you through a personal crisis. You will meet very talented individuals from around the globe each with amazing stories and backgrounds. - just talk to them and you will learn more than you could ever imagine. As for paying for college, make sure to talk to your advisor and check online. Also, do not be afraid to ask people for help regardless if you just need help making a resume, writing a scholarship essay, or need help choosing what classes to stay away from. Trust me, it will save you a lot of headaches and missed opportunities. Lastly, remember college is not all about the academics, there are tons of amazing activities you can join and even more friends you can make in the process. In the long run, getting involved will definitely help when it comes to getting jobs or furthering your education.

Continue on to school as soon as you graduate from highschool. The continuation of education from highschool to a university makes the transition smoother. The least amount of time you spend away from higher education the better you will do in your pursuit of a higher education.

I would have encouraged my old high school self to be not as preoccupied with extra-curricular activities and allotted myself more time to "discover" who I was as an individual and allowed myself the time to explore the fine arts and become more cultured. I feel sometimes people get to overwhelmed with being the "best" and most involved student that it takes away from who people are and their foundational character that makes them a genuine and sincere person.

I would tell myself three things. One, college is rough. Plain and simple. No one is there to hold your hand, no one is there to help you with every little problem, and no one is there to pick you up when you fall. You have to be strong and be able to do it yourself. Two, meet as many people as you can freshman year. People always tell you to meet new people, but really go out there and introduce yourself to everyone any chance you can get. You may meet your best friend that way, hey, you may meet your husband. Three, take time to just be. When you are walking to class, stop and absorb the moment. These are the times of your life and you will take for granted the little stuff unless you just stop and capture it. Look at the trees on the hill, smell the sandwiches from the sandwich cart on the corner, listen to the bell tower ring. Those are the moments to remember. Those are the moments that you can share with your friends. Those are the moments that make the tough times worth it.

I would tell my 18 year-old self this: You don't know what you want yet. In fact, it will be a long time before you know what you want in a career, lifestyle, relationship and anything else. So for now, just soak in every experience you can. Go to the art opening. Attend the speaker series. Take the strange-sounding elective. Go abroad for a semester. Befriend people who are nothing like your high school friends. And let every one of these experiences shape the person you become, and the life you carve for yourself. A lot of young people succumb to the pressure to define their goals before they really know what those goals should be. I say give yourself time to figure out who you are first. That doesn't mean 'float by'. You still need to study, apply for internships, build relationships with professors, keep your grades up and do all the other things that will keep doors open. But don't worry so much yet about which door you'll choose. You might even find it chooses you!

study more

go smaller.

Learn how to study for exams. READ. Get interested in something other than socializing. Never close doors.

As a freshman, everything is new and exciting. You are meeting so many new friends and doing so many new things for the first time. You are learning you way around, learning what there is to do on campus, and learning new things in school in a different format. All of this is extremely exciting and fun and you have no time to be sad about anything. Being away from home seems like a piece of cake. You have no time to be home-sick becuase everything is so different. Your parents are in Maryland, your friends are dispersed up and down the east coast and you are in Wisconsin but none of that seems to matter because of all the new things that are surrounding you. After a summer at home, the beginning of sophomore year is a shock; you will be living in an apartment for the first time which will be an adjustment from what you knew at from freshman year. That is when you realize every year will be an adjustment. Things are not as new and exciting and although you have no problems with school, you are extremely home-sick for friends and family.

I would tell myself that its a good thing that I'm going to a college where I don't know many people. I will be able to meet new people, make new friends, and have a lot of new and great experiences I wouldn't have if I just hung out with people I knew from high school, and I'll be a better person in the long run having stepped out of my comfort zone like that. I would have also told myself to try everything; there are so many opportunities on campus, and this is a place where you can really discover who you are. Join groups, go to lectures, go to plays, hang out in your dorm with new people, do things you wouldn't normally do. Those turn out to be some of the best experiences of college.

I would tell myself to make sure that my FAFSA is done on time, exactly in the month of January. The earlier, the better because I have had too many times where I recieved my financial aid late and was in a financial bind because my financial aid was processed late. I would also say to help prevent the financial aid binds is to apply for scholarships more often. I am fortunate that my father helps pay for my education but applying for scholarships will help pay for most of the expenses that is required for college and there will less worrying about money and more worrying about that next test.

Don't be shy! Get out there and try as many Studnet Organizations as possible. There are so many interesting people and amazing opportunities out there. You don't have to be coordinated to take ballroom dance lessons. You will really enjoy that Buddism lecture. March to the capital. You'll remeber it for the rest of your life. Sailing? Yes. Studnet Organanizations are always looking for new members and really do want you to be a part of their group. College is aboout more than what you learn in the classroom. In fact, you will learn the most useful and enduring skills while particiapting in leadership positions, internships, and at campus events.

I would tell myself to focus on meeting people and making friends, to put myself out there, and to challenge myself to explore everything that college has to offer before settling down into a routine of pushing myself academically. College is set up so you can have time to try new things before you need to really start to focus, so taking a grueling schedule early on does nothing but make you unhappy and prevent you from making friends. Also, there are so many cool classes and majors that you've had no exposure to in high school, so going into college thinking you know what you want to do is unrealistic. The best thing to do is to go in with an open mind, talk to people you never would have talked to before, and go where the road takes you.

To be honest, I wouldn't change a thing! I think a part of transitioning from high school to college is all about the learning process! You discover who you are when you move into a 'bigger world.' I made the most of my education by getting involved in academic clubs, research, social clubs, and attended several sporting events. I definately made mistakes along the way, but they have helped to shape who I am and have made me a more responsible, mature adult today. Growing is an ever-changing process whether you are 18 entering college, a new college graduate, or an adult embarking upon family, careers, grandchildren, etc.! I think if you choose to react appropriately to your life circumstances and learn from the past, your future will open many new doors!

If I could travel back in time and have a conversation with myself when I was a high school senior, there is one piece of advice that I would tell myself above all others: take life one day at a time. It?s all too easy to get caught up in a blur of pressures and deadlines, especially as a college student. If I would have learned to take things one day at a time before college, I would have saved myself a lot of stress. It seems so simple, but it?s a process; it?s not an epiphany that happens overnight. Even today I am still learning to just do the best I can with what I have each day and not to worry too much about tomorrow. I believe this is a key aspect in becoming an optimistic person and one of the most important realizations for everyone to have as they mature into young adults.

Most important advice I would give myself is even though learning and getting good grades is important, a large part of college life is meeting lifelong friends. Sometimes I let schoolwork get in the way of going out and meeting new people and having fun and joining groups. Getting involved in more campus groups introduces you to all sorts of potential friends. Obviously being at a school like mine it is very important to do well and get good grades but the friends you meet in college are friends for life.

I would definitely reassess my academic choices and have taken the maximum AP classes or CAPP classes allowed. I would also have taken all AP tests available and studied so I would be able to achieve the highest points available for college credits. I would have been more proactive in checking out any high school programs that would have given me any edge in college. My high school wasn't as academically competitive as some but with more diligence on my part I would have found programs and activities that would have put me in sophomore standing or as near as possible when entering my freshman year. This has been a problem with obtaining some of the courses I have needed to enroll in.

First of all, be careful who your friends are, because you will grow to be like tham. Secondly, know that jealousy is a weak emotion, that serves no purpose and will only control you. Thirdly, take the hardest classes that you can in the most diverse fields that you can. You have no idea what you will major in when you get to college. Fourthly, remember to treasure the time you are given and take nothing for granted. Remember that everything is in a constant state of change. You have no idea how your friends or lifestyle will change from year to year. Love your life. Live your life. It is the only one you get and it would be a shame to waste it.