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Now that you're wrapping up the high school journey, maybe you're having nostalgic thoughts like, "Hmmm, I wish I had paid more attention in European history," or "I wish I had hung out with the soccer team; they seemed cool," or "Being in student government would've been fun." Would've, should've, could've!

We checked in with 25 College grads from the class of '05 for their regrets along with some insight on how you can graduate with a sense of fulfillment.

1. "I wish I went to the gym more, to keep up an active lifestyle. A free gym! How can we pass something like that up?"
- Jason Jewett, Susquehanna University

2. "I would have taken more Business classes. No matter what major or field you end up in, you'll benefit from knowing more about business ethics, management, accounting practices, and the laws that protect you as both an employee and employer."
- Kristi Thiese, Iowa State University

3. "The only regret I have is taking too long to get involved with events and activities on campus. I should have jumped in with both feet my freshman year, taking in all the social activities and events offered by the college instead of trying to cram everything into my last year."
- Brian Campbell, Roanoke College

4. "If I had to do it over again I would take a wide range of introductory classes that sounded interesting to me. I think it's important to realize that what you think you want to do for the rest of your life at the age of 18 will probably change a few times before you graduate."
- Jaime Nordarse, Lawrence University

5. "I would have gone to see my academic advisor two or three more times than I did. There are often loopholes or catches in your academic schedule that you overlook. In the long-run those can become major problems, especially if you're concerned with graduating on time."
- Brian J. Parker, Morehouse College

6. "Before graduating, I would have done a better job at keeping track of all my friends' and professors' contact information. Now as a public relations manager, I have learned the importance of a strong network."
- Maria Barraza, Babson College

7. "I pushed myself to graduate in three years, not only because I knew it would save some money, but also because it was an extra motivator. Taking a step back now, I think I should have slowed down a bit and enjoyed the ride. I focused so much on studying (not a bad thing, and it did pay off) that I missed out on doing some of the fun, silly stuff you only get to do while you're in college."
- Kristen Lunsford, University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

8. "I would study more. It's easy to lower your GPA, but it's hard to get it back up. It took one semester to bring my GPA down and countless others trying to bring it back up again. Once I knew I was actually going to graduate and look for a job in the 'real world,' I realized I needed to have a good academic record."
- Sarah Thomas, West Virginia University

9. "I would have requested a roommate change my freshman year. My roommate and I definitely did not get along, but I stuck with her because I didn't want to hurt her feelings. It was the cause of much stress my freshman year. I had fantastic roommates for the rest of my time at school, so I know it's possible to share a tiny living space with someone and remain friends."
- Hillary Jackson, Lynchburg College

10. "I would have built better relationships with teachers. From being out of school for almost a year, I have learned that it's the relationships and things you do that will get you further after college. People with a 4.0 GPA aren't necessarily the ones to make the grade after college."
- Nicole Anastasi, Syracuse University

11. "I wish I had lived off campus. You get a better idea of what to expect out of college, and you become more responsible."
- James Landon, Lehigh University

12. "I wish I could have taken a documentary film class. I am interested in film and always imagined making a special feature, but my major had many requirements, so I couldn't take the prerequisite English class."
- John Raymond, Lafayette College

13. "As a member and captain of the women's lacrosse team, most of my friends were athletes. Looking back, I would have joined more clubs and organizations to expand my network of friends beyond athletics."
- Katherine Hock, Adelphi University

14. "If I could go back, I would spend more time thinking about my Career path -- where I want to be, and how I want to get there."
- Jessica Montgomery, Adelphi University

15. "If I were to go back to college, I would definitely seize the opportunity to study abroad. I regret not going because the educational, social, and cultural benefits would have been incredible, not to mention it looks outstanding on a résumé."
- Allison O'Connor, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

16. "I would have found a career mentor, someone working in the field who graduated a few years before me. I learn so much from my colleagues at work now; I could have really benefited from role models like that as an undergrad."
- Mary Lanaux, Loyola University

17. "I would have tried to learn more about other cultures. Babson brings students together from all over the world and I didn't take advantage of the opportunity to ask questions. I wish I could do that over."
- Amanda Hellen, Babson College

18. "I wish I would have realized the importance of internships earlier in my college career. I never really understood the value of some of the opportunities Lehigh offered me and I regret not taking full advantage of them. I didn't realize how many companies hire directly from their intern pool. I know students want to earn money during their time off in the summer, but these experiences are just as valuable, and in some cases, essential."
- Tarence L. Smith, Lehigh University

19. "I never would have had a long-distance relationship with my high school boyfriend my freshman year."
- Lainie Friedman, American University

20. "I would have spent more time with my friends and less with my boyfriend. We split after graduation, and now my friends are scattered in different areas."
- Melissa Merriman, Baylor University

21. "The one thing that I would have done differently would have been to start working at a job sooner. The less time I had on my hands, the more I used it efficiently. I became more organized, and my grades actually went up the more I worked."
- Andrew J. Teachout, Central Michigan University

22. "My advice to the lucky undergrads is to cherish each moment, be friends with people from all walks of life, and live each day like it is the last."
- Kate Shanahan, University of North Carolina-Wilmington

23."I wish I would have gone to more lectures, concerts, and conferences. I should have taken advantage of all the free experiences."
- Lauren McClain, St. Olaf College

24. "I would have gotten involved in the work-study program sooner. It allows you to work and earn money in an environment that is flexible and understanding of your academic priorities. I only took advantage of work-study during my senior year, which meant I started at the lowest pay level and graduated before I was eligible for a raise. The sooner you get involved, the more opportunities you may find (and the more money you can make)!"
- Rosalie Kenny, The University of the Arts

25. "I would have gone to the library more, not just during midterms or finals, but consistently throughout the semester because there's no better place to study."
- Martina Mills, Loyola University


http://www.vickisalemi.com
Vicki Salemi is a frequent contributor to The CollegeBound Network. Learn more about finding a school that's right for you.

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