Skip to main content
57 answers
59
Updated 5433 views

Is there anything you regret not doing in high school/college?

Why didn't you do it and is it something you would recommend others do? #college-advice #college #highschool #highschool-advice #JULY20

+25 Karma if successful
From: You
To: Friend
Subject: Career question for you

59

57 answers


9
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

B’s Answer

Learning a foreign language and taking advantage of the opportunity to travel. Looking back, I wish I would have engaged in more things that were outside my comfort zone. This is a really good time to push yourself to try things that make you nervous :)
Thank you comment icon Will do! Thanks, Sabrina! Iqra
Thank you comment icon Agreed! I wish I would have studied abroad while in school. But, now, I make up for that by traveling to new places and foreign countries. Marina Baker
9
5
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Jennifer’s Answer

For myself, I may look back and think about the things I could have done but I would not regret. I am in a great place in my life right now and nothing I didn't do in High school affected my path to today.
Thank you comment icon I'm glad that's the case for you! Iqra
5
5
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Dr. Delma’s Answer

I agree with everyone, on involvement. That was one area for me that I regret not partaking in both high school and college years. I highly suggest, joining clubs that are of interest to you even though you don't know anyone. Don't be shy, even if it means you have to start a club with a group of your friends or others with the same interest. Having said that, don't forget what your ultimate goal is, time management is the key.
Thank you comment icon Thank you! I'm actually thinking of starting a club at my school so hopefully, that'll work out! Iqra
5
4
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Estelle’s Answer

I recommend taking advantage of any visiting lecturers to your university as well as the culture of the city where you live.
Thank you comment icon Thanks Estelle! Iqra
4
4
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Terhan’s Answer

I have two regrets from high school/college: 1. I didn't challenge myself academically, I was comfortable making an easy A or avoiding a subject that would challenge me like math. 2. I didn't leverage the access I had to so many educated people daily, educators have so much life knowledge and it is easy to take them for granted.
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the answer! Iqra
4
3
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

David’s Answer

For myself, I did not regret for not doing in high school/college. Everything I did from high school to college graduated is all my choices, I join clubs, organizations, play sport and in sport team, and etc. Also handing different position in clubs, organizations, sport teams, fraternities/sororities, and etc. But have I seen people around me regrets for not doing in high school and colleges, that would be a yes. And I had tried to help them organize or plan out what pathway or guide they can do or change. I have friends who regrets for choosing the wrong major, wrong colleges, and/or not taking on position in clubs, organizations, and etc. High school and early college is the time you can have fun, build up yourself, learn from what you will be facing in the working world and etc., Now and days everyone can still go back to college to get another degree, final off a degree and etc. But while you are young with no family, and responsible load that is the time you can freely do whatever you want. Now you can't maybe because you have family, load of responsibility and more. I can see most people regret are not doing what they want themselves but follow what society want them to do and when look back is when they regret because that is the past as well while they are young, now is a bit older and it is not the same feeling anymore.
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the answer, David! I'm glad that you're happy with the choices you made! Iqra
3
3
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Valeria’s Answer

Hello :)
Looking back, I can’t say I regret much from high school and college! However, there are lots of things I’m soooo happy I did!!
For high school, being super involved allowed me to make the most of my high school experience! I was involved in lots of clubs & extra curricular activities. I also attended most pep rallies & dances & little events the school held. That made me feel connected to my class & truly enjoy high school!!
For college, I tried to keep the same mentality & get involved. It was definitely harder, and looking back, I probably would have liked to be more involved with my university. However, studying abroad was a 10/10 choice! I loved it!!! I recommend if you have the chance, to get out of your comfort zone & study in a county you’ve never visited. Also, take advantage of all the resources you have during your college years! Lots of people willing to help you & you should take advantage of that.

Good luck to you!! Remember that it’s easier to regret the things you didn’t do, as opposed to the things you did do (those become lessons!)
Thank you comment icon Thank you! I don't know if I'll be able to study abroad but if the opportunity arises, I'll make sure to take advantage of it! Iqra
3
3
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Ivory’s Answer

I regret not being involved with different after school activities. I would recommend cheerleading, basketball, debate teams are all great things to get involved with. It'll keep you busy and active!
Thank you comment icon Thanks for your answer! I'm not very athletic but I do enjoy debate! Iqra
3
3
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Yume’s Answer

Hi Lqra!
Personally, I have always wanted to do healthcare, but it took until junior year of college to fully realize what I wanted to do. Although, I do not regret taking a gap year to pursue being a physician assistant, I definitely could have made steps earlier in college that would have helped me! For example, I regret not participating in clubs that were relevant to me that would have helped me understand the profession more and obtain volunteering hours. I was very much absorbed in succeeding academically and in research that I almost completely neglected the extracurricular activities. However, in my gap year, there have been other ways to become knowledgeable about a desired profession without joining a club and I have been able to slowly obtain volunteering hours. I don't necessarily regret going full-speed with academics because GPA is not something that that I could have fixed as easily as not obtaining the hours. I hope this helps a little bit!
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the answer, Yume! Iqra
3
3
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Carlos’s Answer

Lqra,
This is a great question.

I wish I would of been more involved during my senior year in high school besides helping create Art Club which is still on going at my High School. I would of joined more clubs, been more involved with the Student body. When I got to college I wish I would of finished my second year and got my degree, but I dropped out 2 weeks prior to finishing.

Get involved in what clubs/activities you can in High School and stick with them! The more clubs & activities you are apart of will help you with any insecurities you may have being in a public setting. I do regret not being more involved because of my own insecurities but over time and working retail it helped me become more of myself when doing public speaking.

Good Luck !
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the answer Carlos! I'm going to do my best to try new things! Iqra
3
3
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Jessica Sera’s Answer

Hi there!

I wouldn't necessarily say I regretted not doing anything in high school / college. That being said, there are definitely a few steps I could have taken to be more proactive about my professional development and goals. For example, one thing that is not explicitly taught in high school or college is emotional intelligence and self-awareness. Often times, I was so caught up with studying that I did not regularly check in with my thoughts and feelings. After graduating, I had so much more time to myself and had the opportunity to sit alone with my thoughts. This has helped me become aware of my feelings and being able to take steps to regulate my feelings in a more productive manner. Because we tend to be so busy with high school involvements or college clubs, mental energy is not often directed inward to explore your subconscious. Therefore, I would definitely recommend practicing checking in with yourself. The concept of metacognition - thinking about thinking was only something I really immersed myself with after I graduated from college. However, this tool is beneficial in all aspects of your life. It will help improve your mood, bring clarity to your goals, and strengthen your relationships with others.

This is a bit more of a spiritual answer to your question, but I hope it helps!

Jessica Sera recommends the following next steps:

Check in with yourself regularly
Become aware of how you are feeling and regulate your feelings healthily
Be honest with yourself when setting goals
Take time to sit alone with your thoughts and think about thinking
Journal and meditate daily
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the answer! I do try to journal every now and then but I find it really difficult to be consistent. I will try to improve upon that in the future though! Iqra
3
2
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Janea’s Answer

That's a very great question, Lqra. When I think back the time I spent in high school and college, it was some of the fantastic time of my life. What I like most about those times was that it is time to discover you. And what I mean by that is to be engaged in different activities, hang out with people who you usually wouldn't hang out with. It's okay to be weird and socially for the greater good. So to answer your question, I regret not discovering me to my full potential. I wished I got involved in things that made me uncomfortable to be comfortable with. I wished I've networked with people starting in high school that leads in college and after college also. Connection with people will be essential. I believe in today's world; it is about whom you know, not what you know. Don't let fear be the reason why you do not explore life at that time in your life, as you will see with each every advice you will receive. Take something from all of us. As you can see, we lived a life already—best wishes to you.
Thank you comment icon Thank you for your answer! I'd encourage you to still take advantage of the time you have and try new things and will keep your advice in mind! (: Iqra
2
2
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Cynthia’s Answer

I regret not being more involved in one really meaningful (to me) club in college. I also regret not doing internships in college. It was not a popular option back in my day (we are talking several decades ago) but I wish I'd had some volunteering or club or organizational experiences to balance out my studies. I think this is all much more common now.
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the answer, Cynthia! I've made sure to do some volunteering at my local hospital and really enjoy it! As for internships, I'll keep those in mind once I get to college. Iqra
Thank you comment icon sometimes while you do volunteering you can also use your contacts in that setting to ask about other careers, options, types of businesses/organizations...and just find some good general advice givers.....and remember to keep contact with those folks...that junior year nonprofit staff person who you worked so well with might be the reference that helps you get a job when you are a sophomore in college (I used to check references for university student job applicants...and there was a big divide between those references from HS days who said...who? I don't recall him? vs those who said, oh yeah, he was great, we've stayed in touch via email and he visits occassionally, i've watched him grow and mature, he's doing x and y, and would be great for your job). Cynthia Goldberg
Thank you comment icon I'll make sure to do that! Iqra
2
2
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Gina’s Answer

Hello-- I really don't regret anything because I feel college formed who I am today. I'm n only child so in high school I stuck to what I knew and was a bit more introverted. When I got to college it allowed me for a fresh start. I went on a tennis scholarship so i learned so much from my teammates. And I was involved in many activities within my major and outside of class. It gave me the opportunity to find myslef and what I liked to do and met so many interesting and cool people along the way.
Thank you comment icon Thanks for answering! Iqra
2
2
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Dexter’s Answer

Hi Lqra,

What a fantastic question! For me, I wish for two things:

One, I wish I would have learned how to study in high-school, which meant I wish I would have academically challenged myself more through challenging college classes or self-development in programming. High school was so easy for me, where I never really studied anything. I just breezed through my homework and tests and never learned to really hunker down and study. When I went to college, the difficulty in the school subjects hit a critical point where I couldn't just count on my smarts anymore. This led to me flunking my classes and being academically dismissed. It took a lot of work to get back into college and graduate on time, and given that I had to work part time to support myself, I didn't have time for much else.

Two, if I had more time in college, I wish I would have done internships. This would have allowed me to discover earlier on that analog design is not something that I enjoyed, and would have helped me pivot to a computer science degree, which would have been more helpful. Having been on the hiring side for many years, I can't tell you how much advantage a candidate has with internship experience. Because they have worked in a corporate setting before, the candidates who have had internships just come across more mature than those without. It's also one of those things that stand out on a resume, even if the internship was with a smaller firm.

Lastly, I rephrased your question a bit because I don't actually regret these things. I wish I would have done some things differently, but really, I am very happy with where I am and the unique journey I took.

I wish you the best of luck, and remember that if you're happy with yourself, there is no wrong way to go about life.

--
Dexter
Thank you comment icon Hi Dexter, thanks for the answer! I seriously relate to the studying thing! High school has been for the most part, pretty easy. I'm worried that adjusting to college might be difficult. I'll keep that in mind about internships! Also, I'm glad that you're happy with where you are in life! Iqra
2
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Monte W.’s Answer

Regret is a waste of time, simply put. Seize the opportunities that come your way as those opportunities will prepare you for your future. If you feel that opportunities elude you, then make your own opportunities. You only experience high school and post-secondary education one time, so make that time exciting and enjoyable.

The experiences you will have and the individuals you will meet along the way, become the lasting memories and life long friends you will take with you for the rest of your life. Regardless of whether you are outgoing or introverted, there are groups, clubs, organizations and opportunities for you to make the most of your time in high school and throughout your post-secondary education.

Carpe potestatem!
Thank you comment icon Thanks dude, will do! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Will’s Answer

I regret not studying abroad in college. I would do it if you can figure out how to make it work financially. It's a really cool experience to go to a different part of the world and learn new things there.
Thank you comment icon Thanks, hopefully, you'll get to do some work overseas if you'd like! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Yuka’s Answer

Hi Iqra,

Thank you for asking this great question! There are so many insightful comments under this question, and I learned a lot from them.

If I had a second chance, one thing that I would change is to do more thorough research at the time of college enrollment. As I was making my decision, I overlooked several factors. For example, I did not spend much time reading the scholarship information, advanced placement policies, and core curriculum requirements.

Also, I was not fully aware of the implications associated with the Catholic faith that my university celebrates. As a result, I struggled to fit in during my freshman year, was unable to use half of my AP credits, and had a hard time in the school-required theology courses. Nevertheless, the four years of studying there were the most formative experience of my life, and I became a more open-minded and compassionate individual, who also probably has more knowledge in Catholic theology than my friends in my home country.
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the insight! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Pedro’s Answer

I am thankful for being extremely involved with one of our sports clubs (including spending a year as president). Even now, many years later, the bullet point on my CV and talking point during interviews is worth it's weight in gold.

I also spent a year studying abroad - one of the greatest life decisions I have ever made, mainly due to the people I met.

My regret? Well... I probably had the time to join a completely random club/society, you can never meet enough amazing people whilst studying, and each one opens the door to a new adventure
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the answer! A lot of people have been saying they wish they did something out of their comfort zone so I might give that a shot! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Ally’s Answer

Hi Iqra,

I think for me one of the biggest regrets was involvement. I wished I put more time and effort into joining extracurriculars and really enjoying the benefits that they could give me. This applies for both high school and college for me.
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the answer! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Sandra’s Answer

I would have been more involved in school activities clubs and activities. For example, I wanted very much to be part of the school newspaper and the yearbook club. I let my own insecurity hold me back. I know now all of us have insecurities. So be brave and get in your own way!
Thank you comment icon Thanks, will do! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Enrico’s Answer

I would take more AP classes in high school if I could go back. Honors classes are great because you still get to learn at an advanced level but AP courses allow you to get college credit. I know some people who were able to graduate from a 4 year university in 3 years all because they took advantage of the AP courses that their high school offered.
Thank you comment icon Thank you! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Priscilla’s Answer

Similar to other respondents, I don't necessarily have regrets, however, I do think I could have taken advantage of the opportunities offered at the institutions I attended. Both college and high school offer several opportunities to get involved in a variety of clubs, teams and social groups and that's something I would've like to participate more in. Having the opportunity to collaborate with others and get involved within your institution provides experiences and skills you can utilize in your life after school.
Thank you comment icon Thank you! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Trent’s Answer

I regret not spending more time doing financial planning. Understanding the long term effects of compound interest on saving and investing at an early age can have a tremendous impact on your life as you age, no matter what income level you find yourself in. Start saving young, find good safe investments in bonds and even real estate and stick with it. Learn how to live on a portion of your income, not the full amount and become a saver. Spend more time doing what you love and what you are interested in vs. what others would want you to do.. keys to success and happiness..
Thank you comment icon Thank you! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Meghan’s Answer

The biggest thing I regret not doing in high school was pushing myself out of my comfort zone and running for Executive Board positions in various clubs/organizations. Given that I went away for college, I had no choice but to work through and deal with my discomfort (as with everyone), which helped me grow and push myself more. Personally, I was fortunate enough to be able to succeed at putting myself out there in college, and seeing how this helped me gain so much more confidence I can totally see how if I had done this in high school, my transition from high school to college would have been a lot easier (I had a very rough time adjusting to the social aspect of college life). Reflecting on how much I grew in college, I can only imagine where I would stand if I had entered my university more confidently. My biggest piece of advice would be to always work on getting comfortable with feeling uncomfortable; the best way you can get better at it is by pushing yourself out of your comfort zone and do things that make you uncomfortable!
Thank you comment icon Thank you! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Krishna’s Answer

I really wish I got more involved in sports. My parents never pushed me to play sports when I was younger, so I never saw the appeal of it as I got older. However, looking back at it now, joining a sports team is a great way to stay in shape but also a great way to meet new people! I was always a bit jealous of the high school sports cliques. Spending a lot of time together in a team sport teaches you how to work well with others and make some friends out of it too.
Thank you comment icon Thanks for answering! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Angela (Angie)’s Answer

I do not regret anything I did in high school or college -- most of my regrets focus on the things I didn't do for one reason or another. So, my advice to everyone in high school and college is to:
1.) Use this time to figure out what you think you want to do -- really, what YOU want to do with your life. If you think going to school every day for 12-18 years is bad, think about picking a career that you don't like and doing that for the REST OF YOUR LIFE!
2.) I wanted to be a teacher -- I REGRET not really thinking about the lifestyle I wanted to have and realizing sooner rather than later that I wasn't going to achieve that life on a teachers salary. I had to choose a new career path in my late 20's after I'd paid for college 2x due to this late realization. So, consider both your passion and the funding you need to have a happy existence (don't think rich, think comfortable), as well
3.) Travel -- I grew up very poor so travel wasn't something I had the opportunity to do too much of. I'd never taken a train, plane, subway, public bus (thanks to growing up in the country), and I REGRET turning down opportunities to travel to places because I needed to know how to do these things and wouldn't ask for help. Traveling and seeing your world from the perspective of someone in another city/state and especially country can be a game changer if you let it.
4.) Experiment -- Not with anything illegal, but wear that outlandish outfit, get a hip hairdo, hang with a group of people (again, not druggies or thugs) that you might not normally hang with (I was a jock-- in college I hung with the Theatre kids... eye opening experience), try Hummus, etc.. I REGRET not experimenting more!
5.) Be you! Being an adult comes with lots of requirements to conform to be accepted - not much different than high school, really, but not conforming can cost you jobs, promotions, etc.. I REGRET not being more in touch with who I really was during that time and just being OK with being that person for a while. I missed my first opportunity to get comfortable in my own skin that first time around.

Laugh, love, have fun. Good luck!
5.)
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the answer, I totally appreciate it! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Kate’s Answer

I did pretty well in high school. I took advantage of AP classes. Those are credits you don't have to pay for in college! In college, I wish I would have explored more classes outside of my major. I did attend as many on campus activities, performances, shows that I could. I was a graphic design major and seeing what the dancers in the dance school were doing or the musicians really was enriching.
Thank you comment icon Thank you! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Jamie’s Answer

participate in youth sports and school activities. Find a passion like Art Club, Year Book or any sport you may be interested it. Get involved.
Thank you comment icon Thanks and will do! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Kara’s Answer

The biggest regret that I have about my time in high school/college is my attitude. I thought I needed to show everyone that "I got this" or that I understood how the world worked... and I missed out on the opportunity to truly be a STUDENT. That said, I do not regret having learned this lesson, now, because it makes me much more focused on taking an attitude of curiosity/open-mindedness, as opposed to needing to have all the answers.

Enjoy the ride!
Thank you comment icon Thank you! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Kei’s Answer

Hi Lqra.

For me, if there is something I regret not doing in college, that would be when I did not pursue becoming a doctor. I am a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Psychology and I've always wanted to be a doctor. After I graduated, I immediately applied for a job and just set aside my dream to become a medical practitioner. That would be forever my "what if" To be honest, until now I am still thinking what my life would have been if I pursued medicine.

Looking back at my highschool and college years, I chose the right friends who influenced me to be better every single day and accepted me for who I really am. I joined clubs and organizations that I was mostly interested in. I kept a good balance of keeping good grades and having clean fun. Enjoy life right now. Find the right people who can give you guidance. For me, as long as you love what you do, that will keep you motivated and happy :)
Thank you comment icon Thanks! I'm sorry that you didn't get to become a doctor but I hope you're happy with where you are! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Syed’s Answer

Hi Lqra,

One thing I wish I did in high school was try to join the Speech & Debate team. Through that experience, I could have had an earlier exposure to the public speaking, logical analysis and persuasive argument skills that are necessary for a successful business career. I’ve achieved that growth through less structured means since leaving high school, but speech & debate would have provided a lower stakes platform to learn. My high school had an elite team!
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the answer! My sister encouraged me to join the team and I really like it! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Judith’s Answer

That is a great question, Iqra. The high school years vary for each person. I wish that I had gotten over my shyness sooner. Looking back at the opportunities that existed, I regret not making that jump socially to be an exchange student, to try out for the school play, or write an article for the school paper. Value those years and surround yourself with good friends that encourage and support you in your ventures.
Thank you comment icon Thank you! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Desiree’s Answer

My regret in High School , was not taking Senior year seriously, and deciding not to go to collage . I did the bare minimum to just get my H.S. Diploma , and almost didn't even get to walk at Graduation. I thought I had a plan, I would go to trade school and be employed fairly young and on my own. My Suggestion for you is even if you do not think you are going to get something or be their perfect fit. Take every opportunity that is offered to you , even go find additional opportunities. They all provide you experience. Some is great experience , some not so good , and even a few will show you exactly what you do not wnat to be. But you have the power now. No mater your Popularity in school , No mater how rich or poor you think your parents are. YOU have the ability to achieve anything , you put hard work and determination into.
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the inspiring answer Desiree! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Veronica’s Answer

Hello,

I definitely do regret not doing many things both in high school/college, but I believe that everything happens for a reason.

I wish I would have gone to a public school, instead of a charter. I would have joined clubs/organizations, sports, summer programs, internships. In college, I do regret not studying abroad, doing internships, working on campus. Doing these things would have helped me better prepare for the job sector. But, other than that, I have a wonderful college experience. It is definitely good to get out of your comfort zone and get involved as much as you can.

Good luck :)
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the answer! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Sindhuja’s Answer

I regret not getting involved in enough extra curricular activities at my grad school. I was too focused on the coursework. Even though I graduated with a perfect 4.0, I felt I could have gained more exposure and more friends by participating in other activities. One should learn how to strike a perfect balance between these too. High-school/College is the best time to explore new things and find out what one's true calling is.
Thank you comment icon Thanks, I'll keep that in mind! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Cheang’s Answer

Hi,

If I would go back in time and give myself one piece of advices as secondary school. I would told myself don't feel shy and confused, please do not care about the people around you, no one cares what your friends saying , just express your feeling and thought, don't let her go. She muster her courage and express her feeling to me but I do not give any respond to her even I love her, and all because of my friends . I care with my friends's saying rather than the girl, I feels extremely regret until now and this feeling never stop. If times flies back and I have one more chance , I would say " Me too ".

However , life do not have second chance, so cherish very moment because time can not flies back and don't make yourself regret.
Thank you comment icon Thank you! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Richard’s Answer

Take as many AP or IB courses in high school. Getting college credit in high school can save you time and money.
Thank you comment icon Thanks! I'm taking AP and college credit classes! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Alycia’s Answer

I wish I looked into studying abroad sooner! I was planning on going to New Zealand this Fall semester, but with the travel ban I can kiss those dreams good bye. At least there's always mission trips I could go on during my gap year!
Good luck!
Thank you comment icon Thank you, that's a common answer! I hope you get to go soon though. Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Erik’s Answer

I felt that my transition from High School to college could have gone much smoother. The workload increases tremendously. If I had developed a more detailed gameplan with my guidance counselor, college life at least for the first month would have been less hectic.
Thank you comment icon I'll keep this in mind once I head off to college! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Tandra’s Answer

I regret not being more adventurous. I was very cautious about everything; I only did things that were familiar to me. I regret not trying different foods, traveling to other countries, learning about different cultures, etc at a younger age. I would suggest exploring your city. I'm sure there are unique events and activities there such as cultural appreciation events, the ballet or opera, food tastings, etc. You never know what you like until you try it. There are so many incredible things in the world and I'm sure your city has a lot of new things you can easily explore. Whatever new thing you try, just make sure you are safe. Adventurous doesn't mean unsafe.
Thank you comment icon Thanks and I will try! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Michele’s Answer

In high school I focused mostly on extra-curricular activities that supported academics. I didn't venture out into sports or band or chorus or things that might have made me a more 'well rounded' person. In college, there were so many things that were unfamiliar to me as a result that I didn't really take advantage of being exposed to them. In hindsight, I would have been better served to have a taste of multiple experiences to shape me as a more well rounded student and young adult.
Thank you comment icon THanks for the answer! Iqra
1
1
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Kelly’s Answer

I can't say that I had regrets for High School/College. I worked hard to have a balance between academics and extracurricular activities. If you think about your High School or College yearbook you have to decide do you want just a picture or do you want a picture with activities and/or honors. By participating in extracurricular it helped to learn my likes and dislikes and make long lasting friends. It helped to shape me into a well rounded person able to interact in varying circumstances.

In college I did change majors (Don't think you are stuck). I went in planning to be a Chemical Engineer but ended up changing my major to Computer Science/Mathematics with a concentration in Biomedical Research. I knew I wanted to be challenged in college and wanted to graduate with a useful degree (a degree that I could get a job immediately). As I explored Chemical Engineering I realized that I didn't want to be single dimensional but wanted to have more options in a career when I graduated. This worked out long term as the major I landed on has kept my career relevant.

Although not a regret, I believe all things happen for a reason and for a purpose, I would recommend continuing your education. I stopped after my Bachelors degree and years later I have not moved to complete my Masters. Because I am in a technology area it hasn't limited me but life happens and I haven't completed my goal.

Thank you comment icon Thanks and I hope you can complete your Masters one day! Iqra
1
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Andrew’s Answer

I regret not getting more involved in different activities and clubs. That is the best way to gain exposure to different things and meet many different, diverse people. It allows you to try different things that you normally may not try.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Gloria’s Answer

Hi Iqra,

I have two.

1 - I regret not pushing forward and completing my bachelor's degree in four years. I should have just stayed the course with my first degree program. I would have had better opportunities and spent less money.
2 - I did not stay in contact with the friends that I made in college. That is easier now with the advent of social media and the dropping in price for phone service. There are people who I really wish that I still knew. I think that they could have helped me achieve more at an earlier age.

Gloria
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Ryan’s Answer

Be involved in groups and events that allow you to meet people from all across your school (different majors, etc). Also, do not get stressed out about grades as long as you have above a certain GPA as job offers are not decided based on having 1 more A than another student. Grades are an important factor to get an initial interview, but once you have above a certain minimum GPA, then it's the interview that matters. Good luck!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Malissa’s Answer

I regret not getting more involved in my community. The most important thing I've done for my career is build connections and unfortunately I didn't start that until after college.

That being said, I also regret worrying so much at that age. I wish I would've taken advantage of being young and not taking things so seriously. Life continues to change and gets more complicated with age, try to enjoy the family and friends you have around you at this stage.

Also, while you have more time--read as many books as you can. One a week if possible.

Malissa recommends the following next steps:

Curious by Ian Leslie
Peak Performance by Brad Stulberg
Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey
The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon
Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Rajesh’s Answer

I definitely missed playing sports. I was told studies are the only thing that defines my life, totally disagree,, enjoy sports and play more
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Michelle’s Answer

Hi Iqra,

I would echo a lot of these responses and say involvement. Building relationships and a network of people who can you leverage in the future.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Alexis’s Answer

I regret not believing in myself enough or more in college!!

When I entered college, I was definitely faced with a lot of challenges including but also beyond academics. This challenged me in believing if I am 'good' enough in my abilities and being proud of my accomplishments as I am my harshest critic.

I wish I spent more time acknowledging my successes and knew that I can still grow while being proud of myself :)
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Jason’s Answer

I would have studied harder and taken more APs. They carry over as college credit and can save you a lot of money on classes. I would have graduated earlier and given myself a big head start in finding my career path. I also regret spending so much money eating out or going out with friends, when we could have just hung out for free. I could have invested this for my future, whether via stocks/bonds or through taking professional development courses. A license or certification can go a long way for one's career. Some jobs won't even consider you without a certain certification
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Jason’s Answer

Believing in my own abilities and caring what others thought of me.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Arturo’s Answer

This is going to sound so generic but experiencing and being more involved. I was super shy growing up and did not get into much. Once, I obtained my B.A. I felt satisifed but I wish I was more active in my community. I really recommend you to seek discomfort! Take advantage of your youth and live in the moment.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Bryce’s Answer

Hi Iqra,

This is really something I regret, but it is something I definitely recommend. As a freshman at my college I decided to live on campus in the dorms. Although you here horror stories about dorms, I think every college student should try it once. I didn't have the best roommates, but I made the best out of the situation. It was so convenient living in the dorms and I was so much more involved on campus while living in dorms. I would go to sporting events almost daily, go to social events in the dorm and on campus, and hang out with a lot of my fellow classmates. Once, I moved off campus it was a bigger hassle to come to campus then before so most times I didn't. I preferred living off campus for the fact that I didn't have to follow university rules and was able to have pets, but it also came at the expense of being less involved on campus. I hope this information helps you out.
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Marília’s Answer

I wish I had spent more time with friends and family. I always took everything very seriously and my professional life started when I was 19 years old. Life passes too fast so now I can say that yes, please, learn everything you can, specially other languages, travel, read books and enjoy your free time the most you can! :)
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

Jennifer’s Answer

For high school, I regret not reaching out to friends more often or taking the time to really relax on weekends as college is a completely different ball game in terms of work and studying. There were also a lot of people in high school that I thought were cool but I never did get to know them better and I wish I did!
0
0
Updated
Share a link to this answer
Share a link to this answer

David’s Answer

I regret not becoming more involved in the social clubs in my college and trying to meet new people
0