Dear Future GSU 1010 students,

My experience in this course has been life changing. I actually discovered some things about myself. Such as my constant need to be organized, the amount of time I tend to spend procrastinating, and my studying habits. So far I have improved my organization skills. For example, to keep up with all of my classes and all my assignments I use a daily agenda. Which I feel is necessary as college students. Even though, it may not be for everyone. I just advice you to do what you feel works for you. I also notice an improvement in my studying habits. By keeping a daily agenda, I know when an assignment may be due or the date for my next exam. So I have time to study and improve some skills that may be lacking. Through this course I was able to understand the means of shooting for success. GSU 1010 has taught me to be resourceful and to grasp all available aids needed to become a better student here at Georgia State. Before this course I couldn’t locate any of the offices that would provide help in my academic success. I would say I was a bird that had just learned to fly on its own—being thrown to the wind. It was scary and it also didn’t help being from another state in a whole new region where nothing is familiar. I was lost and GSU 1010 gave me that help I needed. In some of our class meets, we had different departments of the school come and tell us about what they do. Also, how they could service us as first year students and on the rest of our journey.

Some things you should know going into the course is don’t be afraid to ask questions, no matter how ridiculous they may seem to you. It’s better to ask, then to never know. Understand that you may not be the only one that may have questions or that particular one. I know personally as new students it’s hard to voice your interest or concerns about a particular topic. In your first year, you naturally have a lot of questions, but fear judgement from your peers. But it’s okay to be that one that stands out in the group. After all, we all need a little help to accomplish our set goals. Another thing you should know is to always be open minded and be yourself. Here at Georgia State diversity is a way of life. Don’t be afraid to be who you are, while still respecting others. We all are different in so many ways and by just being yourself, your first year should be a breeze. You’ll meet new people, make lasting friendships, and experience new things. That will eventually make lasting memories to carry throughout the rest of your life. Lastly, remember help is only a step away. Whenever you need assistance academically, financially, or even personally Georgia State’s staff is here to help.

Overall, my experience was great. I learned a lot, gained, and loss somethings. But that’s a part of life. I am just glad GSU 1010 was here to help in my transition from grade to reality. It was a big step, I wasn’t so sure I was ready to take. I have always been reserved and closed off. But being here at GSU, I learned that opening up a little isn’t all that bad. It just might be the start of something new that might provide a path I may need in the near future. So, I say thank you GSU 1010 for the experience and I know the rest of my journey will be a lot greater. I just hope that the next future student accomplishes much more than I have from this course. That they could use on their own personal journey.  So I say thank you, I am proud to be a Georgia State Panther.

Sincerely,

Dianazhya Carter