10 Ways To Jumpstart College Planning
Get Involved
Getting ready for college isn't all work. Find something you really like doing,
then dive into it. Maybe you're drawn to sports, student council, music, art ...
you get the picture. You'll develop skills and be more appealing to colleges (they
like students who'll add something to campus life).
Do the Work
If you expect to go to college later, expect to study now. No one can do it for
you. Don't talk the college talk – "I'll go to college to get a great career" –
without walking the walk.
Take challenging courses
Colleges look at your grades, sure, but also at how difficult your courses are.
They want to see that you've challenged yourself. Plus, if you pursue advanced courses,
such as AP®, you may be able to get college credit.
Get help
Having trouble in a class? Many schools have peer tutors, students in upper grades
who'll help you (for free). Talk to teachers or counselors – let them know you want
extra help.
Read
Read at least 30 minutes every day, beyond study and homework. Read what interests
you – magazines, novels, whatever. People who read more know more. And when you
take PSAT/NMSQT™, ACT, and SAT® tests, knowing more will really pay off.
Don't delay
You take the PSAT/NMSQT or ACT as a junior (or even as a sophomore). So you have
a few semesters before then to take the solid math and other courses that get you
ready.
Get the college-bound facts
How do you know all the right moves to get into college? Ask someone who's done
it. Get to know your counselors. Ask a career planner at a local college, or a trusted
teacher. Do Web research.
Involve your family
When parents or guardians haven't been to college themselves, they may think they
can't help you. That's not true. They can talk to counselors and help you stay on
the right path.
Look for a mentor
If you don't find support at home, look for other adults who can lend their enthusiasm
and help make sure you succeed. You might look to a counselor, a teacher, or someone
else you trust.
Confront personal roadblocks
If you have a problem that's really getting in the way of schoolwork, try to sort
it out. Talking to friends helps. Or look for an adult – parent, coach, nurse, counselor
– who can offer advice.