Wichita State University Top Questions

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

Tony

If I were to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would of told myself these following things. Life has not even begun yet. The college experiences I have experienced now does not even compare to the memories I had in highschool. The people who you meet in college will be the people who will stay in your life, you will meet your bestfriends there, you will make lifetime memories and it will probably be the best moments of your life. I would say to my high school self that being in large groups of volunteering outstandingly help you make the transition in college. It helps create a good resume and allows colleges to see the true potential in you. I would recommend my younger self to take part in many organizations in college, this will allow you to meet more people and benefit the college campus as a whole. This will create a much quicker responce to comfort. Most of all, I would tell myself that you shouldn't care what others think about you, this is your future, take it and do it proudly.

Nathan

If I could go back in time and give my younger self some worldly advice I'd start off with a hard slap in the face. I'm sure that would get my attention and then my younger self would be horrified at the weight I have put on over the years. No words would need to be said for this to register, and though I'm not too much over weight it's just enough to get myself into an exercising mentality early on in the game. Once that harsh reality sank in I'd tell myself that I'm an idiot for not taking the SAT's or for not preparing for college in any way whatsoever. Prepare for the best school possible and make sure there is a ROTC program so I could go into the Navy as an officer rather than enlisted...perhaps I would have stayed in. I would tell myself to put all of my effort into whatever it was i decided to do or to do nothing at all. Today is what matters not tomorrow so make the best of everyday and strive to spread good in a world that desperately needs it.

Alesa

I would tell myself to work on my study skills, and note taking skills a little more, because here in college, they move a bit faster than the teachers in high school. I would also tell myself to be smart socially, and remember that the friends I have in high school will more than likely fade away unfortunately, but it will be okay. Last thing I would say is to start getting out of my comfort zone in high school, because in college, that's where the magic happens.

Chloe

Knowing what I know now I would tell my high school self to calm down and be reassured that college is a place to flourish and meet new people. I would tell me self to fear less and anticpate more. As a high school senior, I was too focused on getting myself academically prepared for college when I should have been trying to emotionally and mentally prepare myself for the great college leap. So, as a college senior I would go back and say that even though academics are the cornerstone of college, the majority of the process is becoming the person you will be for the rest of your life. I would stress to my high school senior self that you will never be able to plan or expect everything that will happen to you in college. What you should do is plan for anything not for everything. Overall, I would tell my senior self to know your worth. When you value yourself as a freshmen you get even further as a senior. With valuing myself and my abilites comes a confidence that cannot be traded upon and knowing that as a freshmen would have been priceless.

Isabela

There are many firsts in high school, but there are even more in college. You will get your heart broken a few times. You will find friends that will last a lifetime and lose some people you thought would always be there. There will be plenty of opportunities to get involved and create memories, don't let a chance to get involved pass you by. It's okay that you didn't win all of the scholarships you hoped for in high school, you will be rewarded in college if you keep working hard and follow your passion. It's okay to feel lost, it's not about the destination, it's the journey. You have a beautiful journey ahead, from college onward. Stay passionate, driven, determined, and never give up. Someday you will achieve your dreams of becoming a teacher and influence the future of tomorrow.

Gabrielle

Dear self, You have a lot ahead of you. You will love certain classes, and hate others. But learn from every class you take and person you meet. You never know if something you don't enjoy learning about in college will help you at some point in life. Don't give up on school even when you feel like quitting. It will be worth it in the end when you help encourage people one day as a psychologist. Also, make sure to keep nourishing friendships even when it's hard to make time. They help to keep the college journey exciting. Gabrielle

Hannah

My biggest advice would be to go to class, and yes, every day. Do all of your homeowork, even all of the tiny "dumb" assignments. Study for your exams WELL ahead of time, so not the day before. Join more groups. It is very difficult to make friends if all you do is go to class and work every day.

Brandon

I would tell my past self to stop thinking about money. I love WSU very much, and it is a phenomenal university, but I realize that the degree I am going for, computer science, is not my dream. I disagree strongly with the notion that money is the only way to happiness. After starting my college career I realized I would be much happier doing something else, and should instead pursue a career in teaching a second language (WSU does not offer this specific major). That is about it, simply to stop thinking about money. I have never had a problem with studying or anything, and I was happy with my senior self.

holly

I would say get to know teachers more so they would be able to reccomend you for programs. They are also willing to reccomend teachers in the same field as well. Dont do something just because the advisor says do, do it because its a choice you make for yourself.

Cory

The biggst piece of advice would be; make sure you take full advantage of the opportunities given to you by the university. If I could go back, I would be more involved with the on campus activates. I would definitely take advantage of different internship opportunities. I made the mistake of just going to class, and then going straight home. That is the biggest regreat I have about my college experience. The older I get, the smarter my parent's. When I was 20 years old, I thought I knew it all, geez was I stupid! They always told me to be more involved, get out there and meet more people. I didn't listen and I wish I would have, there is no telling how many opportunities I missed. That is the advice I would give myself

alissa

Dear Alissa, This is your senior year. This is the last year of life as you know it and end of something great. This year I recommend that you take advantage of your seniority and be a prime example of how a senior should act. The freshmen are looking up to you and you don't want to steer them wrong. Lead by example with good behavior. Apply for scholarships. Take some college credit classes to get one step ahead. Continue to make good grades even though senioritis takes a toll on most people's academics t this time of year. So, buckle down and hang in there! Although your grades need to be a top priority, also remember that this is the last year you will have with some of your closest friends. Do not become so tied up in school that you forget to spend time with those important people as well. Cherish those moments because there are only so many of them left. Have fun, take chances, and remember that being a senior puts you in the perfect position to inspire others, make your mark, and show everyone what you’re made of. Sincerely, A Helpful Student

Amanda

If I could give advice to myself as a high school senior, I would tell myself to take one more science credit to meet the Kansas Board of Regents, and to apply for more scholarships. That last science credit could have opened up more scholarship opportunities for me. I also did not apply for as many scholarships as I could have because I felt so overworked and stressed by senior year. I have unfortunately found that many scholarships are only for graduating high school seniors and now I have a hard time finding scholarships that I qualify for. If I had the chance to tell myself that during senior year, I would not be having such a money problem now. I might have been able to live on campus and still afford my sorority and art supplies for my major. If I thought I was stressed in high school, I’d like the old me to know how much harder she made it for the current me.

Kimberly

I would tell myself to practice better time-management. I didn't do so hot my first semster, but it was a good one. I really wouldn't want to spoil to "newness" of the experience. It was exciting to learn what it was like to be in college. I think for the most part I loved the experience. I might tell myself to be an even better roommate. I always felt bad for coming home late, because my roommate was always the one to go to bed early. I also think I would have done better if I took one less class. My workload pretty much overwhelmed me and that was why I did so poorly. It was a good experience and still is. There isn't much I would change besides that. I think I would just tell myself "Enjoy!".

Cassie

I would tell myself to be involved and have fun. Learning and getting good grades is the most important part of college but it is also a place where you make life long friends and gain connections for the future. I would have also told myself to really try hard to get financial aid and save up because college is very expensive especially if you are hoping to go on and recieve an even higher education. Not only is tuition expensive but you also have to pay for books, room and board, food, and any other activities that you want to be a part of.

Mikheala

Study more efficiently! Do not take the study guides the teachers gave for granted, and read all instructions before completing any test or assignments. Charish the support the high school teachers are given, because you may not receive the same amount of support in college as an adult. You are always responsible for your actions, so make sure you choose the correct ways to handle situations between a student or teacher. Your degree will not be handed to you. It takes a lot of hard work that you may not have experienced before, because high school tended to be such a breeze. Therefore, try to learn more even if you are done with your homewok, because in the end you are never done. Learning takes place everyday, hour, minute, and second of you life, and if you are not willing to learn something, you are not willing to succeed far in life!

Heidi

I would tell myself that it takes time to transition into the college lifestyle. You have to learn how to depend on yourself, learn how to stay organized, become a better studier, and be open to making new friends. I would remind myself that college isn't just about studying all the time, it is about meeting new people, and living your life. It is easier to make it through missing your family and studying for major tests when you have friends to help you. I would advise myself to introduce myself to teachers on the first day of class, and to always ask if I don't understand something. I would advise myself to use a planner to keep track of all the things I have to do, that way I don't forget anything. I would also tell myself to go out and join groups and clubs, go to school events, and hang out around the student center. It's a great way to meet new people and discover more about yourself.

Andrea

I would tell myself to take more time to truly discover what it is that I want my career to be. (To avoid returning to school when I am 30 years old!) Do not take the easy way out because you think you won't be able to accomplish all of your dreams and goals. Prepare yourself for the financial responsibility. Educate yourself on student loans and what the real outcome is going to be once you are finished with school. Accept outside guidance when it comes to how much loan money you really need to take out and how much you will be able to pay for yourself. Do A LOT of research on scholarships and write as many essays as necessary to help fund your education. Education AND making smart choices is key to the career you want and deserve! Learn from those that have gone before you and take their advice seriously. Being financially responsible will get you a long way in a country that is quickly becoming bankrupt.

Todd

If I could go back and talk to myself as a senior in high school I would tell myself to find a healthy balance of fun but treat college as a job. If you put in the hard work during the week attending classes and getting good grades you can celebrate and party on the weekends. I would also tell myself to be more involved on campus. Volunteer more and take advantage of all the opportunities the school gives you to learn both in and outside of the classroom. I would finish the conversation by telling myself to take advantage of the chance to learn about yourself and become an individual and not always follow the "in" crowd.

Julie

Well kid, pay attention because what I am about to say to you is very important. Community college is great! It's cheap and close to home so that you can live at home with your parents and concentrate on schooling. However, please don't do what I did and slack off. You may tell yourself "C's make degrees!" but in all reality, you are just killing any chances you might have for future scholarships. Homework really isn't that much of a pain. I can guarantee that if you do all your homework and take notes in class, tests will seem so easy. Then with your 4.0 GPA (yes you can have one if you actually try!) finding scholarships for that beckoning university will seem that much easier. Also if you do get a scholarship for the community college, don't waste it! Take advantage of it while you still have it and take as many classes as you can. You never know when circumstances may cause you to lose it. In short, do your best and take advantage of any opportunities that may come your way. Good luck, and may your future be bright.

Amanda

If I could go back in time I would tell myself to not be so afraid of making it through college, to believe in myself completely because I can do it. I would tell myself that college is going to be hard, even more so because of my daughter, but it is all going to be worth it in the end. I would let me know that my daughter will look up to me for continuing my education, she will see me as a role model and I will feel amazing and confident about being that role model for her! I would let myself know that friends from high school are not always going to be there, and it's okay to spend more time on studies and getting ahead because I will be so proud of myself and accomplish anything I set my mind to. My family and friends support me and tell me how proud they are of all of my accomplishments and it is the most wonderful feeling in the world.

Michael

GO TO SCHOOL AND WORK IN AN INSPIRING FIELD OF STUDY!!!!!!

Nicole

I would tell myself to look at more colleges and to apply for ten times more scholarships. I would advise myself that at 18 years old to getting to 24 are going to be some hard years. I would tell myself that it was worth it to take a year off from school but i wouldn't take it off if i had it to do over again so that school would be finished and degree would be in hand. I would explain to myself that school is always available online and could have been done while attending the police academy.

Susan

If I were to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would advise, "Susan, the sky is the limit. Remember, if you want a smooth transition into college, you need to invest time in planning your education. Be proactive, become knowledgable, and don't short change yourself. Spend more time with the school counselor discussing your goals. Explore everything that encompass both personal and academic growth for the entire college experience. Consider and cross-compare scholarship options, greek organizations, campus activities, and leadership opportunities at every college you are interested in attending, including out-of-state institutions. This will make the trasition to college easier and the experience better than you imagined it to be. "

Dayna

As a high school senior I feel like I had a fairly successful year. Although I did not realize how close college was and ended up rushing to put in scholarship applications and take the ACT test. When college was close to approaching I felt overwhelmed and had no idea what I was getting myself into. If I could go back in time and give my high school self some advice, it would have to be this: make a connection with your college career counselour! If I would have continiously seen her I believe she would have helped me more with gaining scholarships. In college, money is important and it is hard to pay for an education alone, scholarships are extremely important.

Lindsey

If I could go back I would tell myself to not make any excuses! I was pregnant when I graduated high school and decided that I needed to get a job and go to work in place of getting a college education. Boy, was I wrong! I have found the transition back to full-time education difficult as an adult and I would tell myself that it doesn't matter how much I may struggle now, the struggles later are just as hard and maybe harder. I would tell my high school self that math is harder to do when you haven't done complex linear equations for over 10 years and that your study habits get worse the older you get. I would beg my high school self not to let my GPA and opportunities suffer because I thought that making money was more important than going to school. In conclusion, I would tell my high school self that the time is now and push myself to make the decision I should have made over a decade ago.

Sherry

I would advise myself to end the relationship with my exhusband, who was my current boyfriend. Bad association has a great impact on your future. At that time I made decisions based on my emotions rather than thinking logically about my future. I got married in my first semester of college and dropped out becuase of financial difficulties. I was an "A" student and had scholarships from several colleges and blew my chances. After so many years of paying for my mistake, I finally have another chance to make a diffence being part of the solution in the world.

Hannah

Knowing what I know now about college life and making the transition into college, I would tell myself not to worry about the road ahead. What is coming will come anyway, so you do not need to spend time worrying about grades, scholarships, or your major. Rather than worrying, I would tell myself to pursue the things I am interested in, and work my hardest. I would also tell myself to become more involved with the campus community in order to create lasting ties with my fellow classmates.

Christopher

I would like to tell myself that I needed to study harder or that I needed to spend more time finding scholarships, but this is not what my heart says. I would first tell my high school self that, all in all, I am proud of him; that I'm satisfied with myself. At this, my senior self may wince. He may even choke back a tear. My high school self would then make an excuse why life isn't as good as it should be; why he has been cheated. I would sit and listen to my past self's words patiently. Then, even though I very much remember how I felt, I would tell my past self to suck it up and stand tall; to earn a better hand. My past self would be stricken and just a little annoyed, but he would know I was right. I would tell him to be courageous and bold. I would let him know that failure is sometimes okay. And lastly, before returning back to my own time, I would hug my past self and tell him the friends and companions he always wanted were right around the corner. Be patient.

Van

To my dearest self, consider only two things: First; the exhausting effort of funding college is well worth it. It is not until now that I have graduated with a student loan and madly crunching numbers to find a way to pay for future graduate school that I realize most scholarships out there are targeted towards high school students. Dont just rolled over and accepted that student loans are a part of life. Second; the size or reputation of the school does not matter. What good is it to you to be sitting in a classroom with a brilliant professor amongst two hundred people who want the same thing out of that professor as you; you're just a number. As the old saying goes, go for quality instead of quantity. My teachers at Witchita State have never been published but have ample experience and above all the ability to give me the personal recognition I needed that a lecture hall could never have. When it comes down to it colleges are a business and they want your business. Focus less on the glamour and more on substance. Practicality after all stands a better chance against a recession.

Nicole

Dear Nicole, You have made it to your senior year of high school! Congratulations! Keep working hard, and never give up. You are busy, but life only gets busier and better from here. Being a freshman is hard. You will not know where anything is or where to get good advice from. Stick to your gut. Never procrastinate. Get assignments done when your professor tells you to. Make your classes your top priority. You have to pass your classes to succeed. Do not be afraid to have fun, but put school first. Long days of work will be rewarded when you know you will be able to pay the bills. Study hard, and never give up! Your future friend, Nicole

Teddi

As a graduating high school senior, I thought that going to college was out of the question for me. I was in a single parent household with three siblings, and there wasn't enough money for me to go to college. Knowing what I know today, if you want to go to college in this country, you can do it - there are scholarships, financial aid, and low interest student loans that are available to make it possible to get a good education to provide a better future for yourself and your family or future family. If I knew then what I know now, I would have jumped right in there with both feet and would have gone to college many years ago! You will never have regrets for taking the initiative to get an education and provide for a rewarding career and future.

Kayla

Hmm. This is a good question. What advice would I give myself if I could go back in time? I would have to start with standing up for myself. Not letting myself get bullied and making me depressed. After I had that taken care of, I would figure out how to communicate more, like talking with the teachers if something was on my mind, because in college you must communicate frequently with your teachers. Another thing, would be to ask for help. I was very quiet and shy. I hated talking if I didn't have to. Looking back now, I have realized that I did not take high school seriously and it has affected me in the long run. Entering college, I had no idea what to think. I quickly found out that you must study hard, something I never did in high school. So that would be my last topic I would give myself advice on. I would lecture myself for not studying hard enough and developing the proper study skills. No one can predict the future or change the past, but you can always make the most of the present.

Shelby

If I could go back in time to when I was still in high school and give myself some advice about college, I would start off by telling myself to really go after scholarships harder than I did. Scholarships are extremely helpful and with more scholarships, I don't have to take out loans. I would also tell myself to actually consider getting involved in more activities on campus. Not only does this give me a great experience, but it would also help me to meet more people. A big piece of advice I would give myself, would be to actually listen to my parents when they would keep asking if music is what I really wanted to do. I would then plant the idea of business and accounting in my head, because as it turns out, my parents were right, and Accounting is more what I could make a career out of. Last, but not least, I would tell myself to breathe and calm down. It is scary, yes, but it is also really exciting and fun all at the same time. The very last thing I would say to myself before i walk away would be to relax.

Rebekah

“Don’t even waste your time on this application,” I, now 19, say ripping the piece of paper out of my 18 year old hands. Telling myself this will save me time and trouble. My eighteen year-old-self looks into my own eyes in pure shock. “Yes, I’m you with a year of college under my belt and listen close because I have three pieces of advice that magazines like Seventeen can never tell you.” “Tip one: When your parents ask if you need anything, say yes. Stock-up on as many supplies, like razors, Spaghetti O’s, and toothpaste, as you can. Tip two: You will never use all of your t-shirts from high school. Your dresser drawers will fill up with college team t-shirts, so only pack a few from home. Tip three: Facebook, YouTube, and Pinterest will become your worst enemies when trying to do homework at college. To defeat this set a goal that you will study for forty-five minutes and then check Facebook for ten. “ After stating these three unknown facts, I sit back and relax knowing this information will help me conquer my first year at college.

Torrie

In high school I thought the cool thing to do was to dress fashionable everyday, and talk to as many people as I could get my eyes on. I would be on my phone during class, and because I thought had the smarts I would teach it to myself during the evening. Looking back, these were the worst possible decisions I could have made. In college, no one cares what you look like, or what you wear. No one cares how many people know each other, because realistically you will never know everyone in your college. My friends who I tried to please back then, don’t even matter anymore. Also, I would have paid attention in every class and practiced my note and test taking skills. If I would have prepared myself more in college I would have been a step ahead than what I am now. I have finally caught myself up and am working hard to become the student I want to be.

Shelby

If I could go back and give myself advice, I woud probably tell myself just to relax. To calm down. I stressed so much over what college I would pick, dorm life, living on my own, how I was going to pay for all of it, and meeting new people. I now see all these things don't matter as much as I thought they would and I just wasted part of my senior year worrying for nothing. I found a great school that fits what I am looking for, I am close enough to home that I dont get homesick, and the people are fantastic. They are so welcoming and there is a place for everyone. It has been easy finding a place to fit in. On a second note, I would also have to tell mysef to get involved with the school Quidditch team sooner. It is a great sport.

Tuyet

I would tell myself that college is not a playground; it’s not like high school. It’s the first big step of being an adult. In college you are by yourself, everything you do is for your greater good. You cannot afford to miss this opportunities by flunking out or screwing up. Going to college is a privilege not a right. I am lucky to be able to have the opportunity to pursue a higher education and to do what I love. I need to remind myself that school will and always be ultimately important. How I do in the next several years in college will determine where and which path I take for the rest of my life. Play time is over. The game has finally started.

Tyler

The classes you choose to take will be difficult and challenging, so be sure that you have good study habits. GPA is more important than you think; work on keeping it about 3.0. As you transition into college life you will be tempted to procrastinate with your assignments as you spend your free time at the student center. It's alright to go there because you will meet a lot of entertaining and unique people, but have a balance between fun and school work. Do not be afraid to talk to your professors and let them get to know your face. If you ask questions you will retain more information and teachers will appreciate your willingness to learn. In turn teachers will be more willing to help in other areas, and you will feel more confident in the way you conduct your college upbringing. Remember, there is nothing wrong with asking for help. Finally, break your procrastination habit right now! It will bring you nothing but late nights, high stress, and feeling like you could have done better. Getting a head start on scholarships, homework, assigned reading, and projects never hurt anyone. Good luck and keep your head up.

Michael

I would have told myself to be more involved. I would have wanted to tell myself to do more community service and also to be more active in the clubs that my high school had. Another thing I would have told myself is to focus more on scholarships and I would have promised myself it would have paid off in the long run.

Phuong

Looking back at my first semester at Wichita State University, I took everything too seriously and was paranoid about my studies such as my quizzes, tests, and assignments. If I could go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior I adivise myself to just--relax. College is a big step for an individual and you do need to focus on your studies, but I was always stressing about when my next test was and trying to calculate my final grade. At some point, you just need to relax. College is the time to learn, of course but also it offers many oppurtunities to meet new people and to involve yourself on campus. Now that I am going into my second semester as a Freshman I know what to expect and I am not going to stressing about every tiny detail anymore. Sometimes, it's good to stop and think.

lenay

If I could go back as a high school senior, I would tell myself this: if you see people standing at a table and handing out "free" t-shirts if you sign up for a credit card...... DON'T DO IT! These people seem to pick out colleges to do this at and they know full well that college students are poor creatures that will fall for this free t-shirt act. What they don't tell you is that the annual percent rate is 29{4a082faed443b016e84c6ea63012b481c58f64867aa2dc62fff66e22ad7dff6c}. This will break a college student of they miss even one payment. You also don't realize that little things that you charge eventually will add up and you will be amazed on what crap you bought on credit and you have absolutely nothing in the end to show for it, exept your stupidity and wishing you could have been smarter with your money.

Leah

Senior Leah, You should get a job and work harder to complete your homework. I want you to be more prepared with the scheduling changes in college with only having classes on certain days of the week instead of the same classes every day at the same time. Having a job would have be very helpful to have a steady income with a cushion for unexpected expenses. Being on task and staying up on homework is very important in college especially when professors do not accept late work at all. You also have the option of going to class or not. Mom and dad aren't there to make you go to class so you have to make sure and take the responsibility to go on your own. Make a schedule and stick to it! If you get into a routine for each day and set aside a certain amount of time for each event in your day it makes it that much easier to get things done as well as knowing what needs to be done. Dont be afraid to meet new people and make friends either. They are a very useful opportunity that can help. Sincerely, College Leah

Tyler

Take it easy. Don't stress out. Begin to pace yourself so you don't leave everything left undone at the last minute. Prioritize your time and make time to enjoy the process and experience of college life. There will be times, especially during finals, when you will have to sacrifice some social engagements to either catch up or strive to finish well in a class, but don't fear. There will be many times to nurture those old and new relationships. The life of a college student is riddled with seasons of both testing and triumph, of both victory and failure. And when you do fail in one regard or another, remember this: view failure as a new opportunity to excell. Never give up, but keep looking onwards towards the goal that is set within your heart. Success will come as long as you choose to succeed.

Brandon

If I were able to go back in time and talk to myself as a high school senior, I would give myself a lot of advice. One does not have to be afraid of going to college. As one transitions into college life, he or she needs to look at the future because this is the time when one faces reality. This may be the time to look for a job opportunity to help pay for college even if one's parents are paying for college. Friends may be attending other colleges, which means weekends will be spent working or studying. There will be a lot more free time available, which should be used wisely. Having a balance between family, friends, school, and work will help greatly. In college, the opportunity to change one's life in the right direction is given. Do not be afraid to take advantage of all the good things that come along.

Emily

As I researched college after college, my mind raced and I thought I needed to have my life figured out. "Where are you going? What are you majoring in? What activities are you joining? Where are you living? What's your schedule? What job are you getting?" are just a few of the many questions I received from most people who knew I was a high school senior. I stressed constantly and was worried that I didn't have my life planned out. If I could, I would go back tell myself to take deep breaths and slow down, taking time to enjoy senior year. Yes, having responsibility and maintaining good grades are essential, but not at the expense of your sanity. I would tell myself that my major will change, I'll lose you'll 4.0 by a portion of a percentage point, and I won't be involved in everything I'd like to be, but life goes on. Enjoy the day you have right now, do your best, and breathe. The rest will come in time.

Jenifer

If I could go back in time to when I was a high school senior, there is so much advice I could give to myself about making the change and transition to the college lifestyle. I would tell myself that good grades do matter. Good study habits and time management help you set up the path to the goals you want in the future. Apply for scholarships like crazy because tuition and books are more expensive than I figured. Find a job that you love and work as hard as you can every single day. Grow as a person. Make time to enjoy life and meet new people. Get involved in college activities. Be open to new cultures and different people's lifestyles; don't judge others for how they've been raised or how they live their life because it doesn't affect you. And above all, keep true to yourself and always look ahead and keep moving towards your future goals and aspirations.

Samantha

College seemed as frightening as a first job interview, but now I almost like it. My previous fears about college are now irrelevant. When I pictured college I imagined being crushed by difficult schoolwork. Fortunately I wasn’t -- I am much busier than I was in high school, but my schedule is manageable. The social difficulties I anticipated in college were unimportant. If you talk to the people you sit by in class you have friends. If you don’t want to make friends, ignore everybody. It’s that simple. I shouldn’t have worried about making friends, it happened when I was ready. I thought that college would be boring, but it’s more interesting than I thought because you can mostly pick the classes you like. I like college more than I anticipated, but it’s more like enjoying an after flavor than an initial liking.

Jeremy

There are several things that I would tell myself as a senior in high school that I have learned through my college experience so far. The first is to make sure to get things done on time or even as soon as possible. Also, double check to make sure that you know that you have everything done and are not missing anything in assignments, applications, etc. That will eliminate a lot of stress and headaches. Second, get into a routine and stick to it as much as you can. This may be doing all your homework right after your classes, or it may be taking a nap between classes. Whatever it is, stick to it. Do not get into a habit of staying up until the wee hours of the morning! If you do this, your immune system suffers, and you will get sick more often! Third, don't forget where you came from. Your family, friends, and mentors had a huge role in where you are today and where you will be going. Don't forget how you have been raised, and continue to live that way. Enjoy the new freedom you will experience, but don't abuse it.

Amber

My senior year was difficult at times because I was stressing about so many things related to college. If I could go back in time I would tell myself two things; first I would say be sure to leave your dorm door open and always hang out in the hallways so that you can meet everyone. Along with that I would tell myself to quit stressing about making new friends and to be sure to go greek because it is the most rewarding thing I have done at Wichita State. Second I would tell myself to relax and have fun because although money is tight everything will work out and you will still have the time of your life!

Taylor

If I could go back to my high school self to give myself advice, the first thing I would tell myself is to prepare for the rush. College is easy to get lost in socially. There are parties, new people, new organizations, and events occurring all over the campus. It would have helped to know beforehand that those things will always be there; whereas it is always more important to be able to focus on studying and completing the course of my desired degree. I wouldn’t advise myself to sacrifice fun and study at any and all cost, but rather to keep my focus on passing my classes as proficiently as possible. In the long run, the point of college is to get a career. There will be memories of plenty of entertaining moments in my college career; as well as proud moments of academic success.