Today National Prep held its first annual NCP Alumni Luncheon. Our prestigious alum shared their views and experiences about college life with current seniors. Here are just some of the lessons and advise they shared:
- Don't put off your homework and projects, always start your assignments when they are given to you so you won't get backed up. Also, check your pride and don't try to go it alone, ask for help and join study groups even if you don't think you need it.
- College is different, there is no mom to wake you up and you are responsible for getting yourself to class.
- One of the differences between high school and college is that my classes don't start until 10:00am and a I am finished by 2:00pm. I was so used to being at National prep all day.
- Other people will try to influence you in a negative way, do not waste your tuition and get kicked out by doing something stupid. I've seen people get kicked out already for doing really dumb stuff like smoking weed and setting fires to a dorm room.
- You will meet a lot of people who are different than you, this is an opportunity to get to know other people and cultures whether they are different in race or from where they live.
- Yes, there are great parties, but you have to remember to take care of your school work before you go to the parties. You are there to get an education, that is the priority before anything else.
- Be successful in whatever you do.
- If you choose a school that is close to home you will be able to come back more often.
- Choose a school that is far away from your home so you will grow and learn and have a different experience.
- Be sure to understand the financial aid situation. My mother and I didn't understand that the money is split into two semesters, not each semester. Apply for as much aid as you can now, and do not wait. I almost didn't make it back for a second semester, but I worked a job, and received additional financial aid.