What advice would you give?

Just received an e-mail from the head of the English department, asking departing seniors for their advice to underclassmen. The department is hoping to publish these comments in promo packets for incoming students, but it's an interesting question to consider. What would I tell myself, if I could go back four years in time?

• Most of the most interesting, brilliant, earth-shaking people I know didn’t actually graduate with perfect 4.0s, either in years or in grades. Take the time you need, and realize that it really isn’t about the numbers.
• Be receptive to change. It’s gonna happen. You can take a deep breath, and adjust your plans, or you can whine about it, but nothing will keep it from coming. Give yourself an easier time of it and take that deep breath.
• Learn to make time for yourself. College can make you very busy, but a job will make you even busier, so if you don’t learn to relax now, you’ll have a much harder time of it later.
• Learn a foreign language. This is the most focused you’ll ever have a chance to be.
• Keep your eyes open for opportunity: it’s everywhere. The best jobs I’ve had, I found because I checked my e-mail or listened to my professors’ announcements in class.
• Be nice to everyone. I mean it. Everyone, from the housekeeping staff in your dorm to the stranger behind you in class. You never know when you’ll be locked out of your room or totally stumped in lecture, and that person will be your only hope for survival. (Also, being nice makes life more pleasant for you, and for everyone else around you, too.)
• Keep a planner. Things tend to get busy around here!

This last item I know all too well..this blog has been pretty neglected through the busy season of finals. Breaks always allow me time to rearrange my priorities, so this should be kept up a little better for the next month, at least.