Advice I Would Give to my High School Senior Self

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When I was asked to write this article, the prompt was “What advice would you give to your high school senior self about applying to college and the transition to college?” I immediately was so excited to write this piece because I often wish I could go back in time and tell my 18-year-old self to just relax. At the time I was so worried about picking the perfect school – as were most college-bound high school seniors. I remember losing sleep over this seemingly life-altering decision. But alas, after all the worry, I am here now at what I believe to be the perfect school for me.  

Do more research, yes more 

Researching in depth about the schools you are looking at is a vital part of the college search. Putting in the time and effort to learn more about your potential school is so beneficial when it comes to making your final decision. UMass Amherst makes it easy to explore all its programs and provides real-life student experiences across its social media pages. Research does not just mean checking out their website, it could also mean taking the time to talk to current or former students from the university about their experiences. Speaking with current Honors students at the time of my college decision was ultimately what led me to pick UMass. It’s hard to hear a glowing personal review of Commonwealth Honors College and not choose to come to UMass.  

Remember, you’re deciding for your older self, not your high school self.  

I think the biggest piece of advice, and one that might be hard to grasp, is that when you are choosing a school you are picking it based on the wants and desires of your younger self, and you should try your best not to do that. 

For me personally, if I chose a school based on what I thought I wanted at 18, I do not think I would have grown so much as a person. 

What I am trying to say is that pick a school for who you want to be at the end of the four years. That is why I chose UMass, because I knew putting myself in a big school environment would help me grow, and that the vast number of academic options at the university would give me the freedom I needed.  

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Starting college is exciting and will open so many doors, Photo: Eva Trainer

When move-in day is around the corner, take a breath 

In terms of the transition to college, it can be scary for some. You’re moving away from home, and it is the start of the next chapter of your life. It’s a big deal! But it does not need to be scary. It’s important to have the perspective that starting college is exciting and will open so many doors.  

Look into the courses offered  

I recommend taking a look at the course offerings and seeing if the class descriptions are interesting to you. The Honors courses at UMass are intended to expand the depth of your knowledge. The CHC intentionally designs Honors classes so that you are in small, inquiry-based discussions with like-minded students. My favorite class taken at UMass thus far just so happened to be an Honors course, it was America at War with Professor Dow. This class was not related to my majors, but it was a wonderful opportunity to expand my knowledge in a new realm of study.  

Consider your long-term goals  

As I said before, during your college search, you should try to think a few years ahead so you can gauge your wants and needs. This really comes into play when considering whether a college will fulfill the needs of your long-term goals. I recommend you ask yourself, “Will this college provide the resources and opportunities I need to reach my career and personal objectives?”  

The wonderful thing about UMass Amherst is that the university has countless resources, so no matter what you are interested in, there is an opportunity out there that will not only complement but advance your academic and personal goals.

The university also allows for a lot of flexibility, so if you do not have a streamlined focus, you can easily delve into an array of interests while still staying on track.  

At the end of the day, it’ll all work out. The college decision process is exciting and with a great option such as UMass, you’ll be set. So just remember to be prepared for what’s ahead and get excited for your great future that awaits!