High School Students: Right Time to Prepare for College

Many high school students think that college is a long way away. However it is much closer than they think, and there are many things which they need to do to get ready for college. In less than four years, they have to enter a new stage in their life which is much more important than high school. It is the time to start planning for college as it’s the investment for their future.

Discover Your Goals While in High School

Identify your goals and priorities. Explore your interests and skills, consider the things which influence you, consider all about what you love to do and what you’re good at. Set practical goals to achieve your dream future.
Make wise choices in the subjects you want to study as the choices you make for 9th grade – as well as 10th, 11th, and 12th – will influence the options you’ll have for the rest of your life.

Prepare Academically for College in High School

It is the right time for high school students to prepare academically for college. Enroll in courses right for you, start following good study habits, and improve your writing skills. College admission officers do consider courses taken by students in high school so put in your best efforts and try to get good grades in the courses you take throughout high school.

Some students opt on taking the challenging college prep classes; these courses are not only useful but can help you stand out from other college applicants. These courses improve their chances of getting admission to their dream college as admission committees know that students who have taken these high-level courses are capable and can very well manage the pressures of college life.

For the right choice of courses you can consult you guidance counselor or refer to these sites:
www.collegeboard.com/student/plan/high-school/33.html
www.ed.gov/pubs/CollegeMeNow/page13.html

Extracurricular Activities in High School

As college admissions committees also search for well rounded students, students should also focus on participating in extracurricular activities. High school students should pick one or two activities they are good at and put in effort to perform well.

Financial Planning for College:

Looking at the upward trend in college fees, preparing financially for college is a must. It is better to plan it earlier and start saving money for your college fund.
No doubt college expenses are increasing, but you can receive financial aids for this. Grants and scholarships, loans, and work-study are the types of financial aids available for qualified students. Check out websites for the eligibility for these financial aids. Keep in mind that most of these aids are distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis; so apply early. Also be sure to ask for financial materials from your guidance counselor in high school.

Do Your Best to Prepare While in High School

Do all the preparations but don’t let it dominate your high school career. Try to put in your best effort for these four years of high school to earn scholarships and gain admission to the college of your choice. Prepare yourself for college and keep calculating every move you make in high school as part of some college preparation plan. Keep a balance by exerting in college prep courses and enjoying by participating in extracurricular activities.

Time Management Will Help You Prepare for College

Working in college and keeping up with your social life requires time management skills. Taking up several responsibilities during these high school years will help you become skilled at keeping balance in your life, while maintaining great grades and test scores.
Schedule your studying hours, especially if you are taking tough classes. Make up your mind how much time you need for every course, and plan accordingly.
An internship is no doubt a big chance to get real-world experience. Before you opt for this opportunity, consider practically how this will impact your time to study and other activities. If you are unable to get the time for this, a summer internship would work better for you.

So high school students don’t waste your time or money, plan for college and get ready to meet your educational goals.