This story was originally published in 2016. The advice from Johnson and the former students is still valid.

As a student, this is the time of year that we all are anticipating, the start of a new school year. There are so many things that we worry about.

Who is going to be my instructor? Do I really need all these books? Do I have enough money to get school supplies? Just thinking about this causes some anxiety. This anxiety can be even higher for first year students.

A question was posed to me “What information or advice would you give to a new student attending MATC?” I had to ponder this question long and hard because it has been sometime since I was a new student. I have sat through many welcome sessions and briefings for new hires but never considered the information.

The information or advice I would share with a new student would be that you have chosen school over full-time employment, so understand that you are now bettering yourself through education. The price you are going to pay is expensive, but the value of your education truly doesn’t have a price tag.

Be honest and true to yourself, because not everyone is suited for higher education. As a student, you should focus on school, prioritize your time for studying, listen and ask any and all questions. Don’t think of school as a daunting task but as something to better yourself and your future.

Looking over my response, I sound like my father and I can hear my children saying “dad I know.” This is only advice which can go in one ear and out the other.

We asked six returning students what advice they would give new students and here is what they said.