On the first day of high school, college may feel like a long way away. However, it would be best to start planning for college as early as possible, ideally in the ninth grade. College planning specialists and long-term objectives may be created as you maintain a high GPA while participating in extracurricular activities.
When Should You Start Planning For College?
Students’ parents or guardians frequently assist in college planning. When it comes to academic and extracurricular duties, parents or guardians can help hold you accountable. You may even open college savings account with their assistance.
Here are some guidelines to help you prepare and start your planning for college while still in high school.
Choose classes that challenge you.
Planning for college might allow you to select classes that are both challenging and aligned with your long-term academic goals. Additionally to the core course requirements, admissions committees want to see that you’ve taken courses that have pushed you and prepared you for college and fundamental course requirements.
However, it is vital to realize that you should not solely make these selections to get into college in your early high school years. Alternatively, you could choose classes you are interested in and focus on personal development.
Choosing both demanding and time-consuming classes might help you acquire the time management and study skills necessary for success in college.
Engage in extracurricular activities.
Extracurricular activities are, of course, significant to college admissions officers. Extracurricular activities exhibit character attributes to college admissions committees.
Students should choose extracurricular activities not just to gain college admission. Choose activities that foster personal growth and development of college-ready traits like leadership and accountability.
Remember that depth is more important than variety when deciding what extracurricular activities to participate in. If you’ve shown a solid dedication to your chosen hobbies, admissions officers want to know how it’s impacted your personal development.
Instead of choosing activities because you think they would look good on your resume, participate in those that interest you. The most important benefit of engaging in extracurricular activities is the personal growth you’ve gained.
Look for opportunities to lead others.
Joining clubs and groups in high school help you to begin establishing the relationships and abilities you’ll need to advance into leadership roles later on. It’s beneficial to take on these leadership roles since they teach you how to handle difficult circumstances and develop excellent communication skills.
Leadership qualities you learn in high school can help you stand out in college admissions and lead to a successful career later. Engaging in extracurricular activities like organizations, sports teams, and volunteer opportunities is good.
Develop your skills.
The purpose of your high school years is to prepare you for life as an adult by instilling in you the information and abilities you’ll need. Students typically discover their specialty—the field where they desire to pursue further education and a long-term career—through this discovery process. And learning.
High school should also be a time to focus on the essential skills kids will need for the rest of their careers. Communication, leadership, and critical thinking are just a few of the required abilities for success in the workplace. For college applications and moving to a new school, possessing these skills will be crucial.
Take a tour of colleges.
Before applying to college, it is essential to build the basis for the skills and information that you will need when the time comes. However, it may be beneficial to visit college campuses casually.
The advantage of touring college campuses early is that you don’t have to be in a rush or juggle other responsibilities. When visiting institutions in a new location might be a smart idea, such as when you’re on vacation or when you’re not in the middle of a significant project.
Start Planning For College
While college preparation should not overwhelm your early high school years, it might be helpful to consider your long-term aspirations now. If you want to prepare for college, focus on creating good study habits, academic engagement, and social skills.
A high school that can help you achieve your academic objectives is a vital part of this planning process often disregarded. In addition to having a well-rounded education, students should have access to challenging yet fulfilling courses and essential extracurricular activities, among other things. College success is more likely for students who go to high schools that value character development and college counseling.
Choosing the right high school might help you get a strong start in college applications. Attending the right college is essential to succeed in higher education and afterward.