Preparing for a College Education

Planning ahead for college is something that doesn't start just a few months prior to graduation from high school!  Serious students who desire post-high school education (including a two-year vocational degree or certification) must map out their goals starting in their freshman year of high school, so that the classes they choose can correlate with what area they plan on studying once in college.  Having extensive experience and exemplary grades in English/literature, Foreign languages, science/physics, and mathematics can determine the likelihood of being accepted into the colleges of your choice.  Don't hesitate to discuss your options with your parents, school counselor, and college advisors to ensure you are ahead of the game.  If ever you find a class is a struggle, take action within the first few weeks of the class and find a tutor* or drop the class (if possible) so that you can avoid negatively impacting your GPA.

Extra-curricular activities are a great way to boost your credibility and making you more likely to qualify for grants or scholarships. It makes no difference if you join special interest groups or teams in high school or through your place of worship - either way, you are showing that you can work well with others, you have something to provide your community, and mentors and leaders you work with will be able to write influential reference letters needed as part of your college application process.

Consider having a part-time job. While it is completely optional on your part, it doesn't hurt your wallet or your college future. By doing well on the job, you gain another opportunity for a positive reference letter, and prove how well you can handle academics with a career. Another plus by working while still in high school is that you will have professional experience to build your resumé or curriculum vitae (CV) and be more likely to land a lucrative job in your area of expertise while as a college student/graduate.

And when it comes time to take the SAT/ACT test, don't go into it blindly. Your score will tell prospective colleges how to gauge your academic abilities, and the higher your score, the better. Know which test that would be better suited to you, and research information on both, along with which test is a requirement for the colleges you want. Test more than once (starting in Spring of Junior year, and no later than Spring of Senior year), so that you can obtain the highest score possible. Herein is another instance where tutoring* can be key in helping you succeed.

In the end, it all comes down to working smarter, not necessarily just harder, in order to have the future you desire.

*NOTE: Sylvan Learning Center offers several options for college-bound students. From Study Skills to Homework Support, SAT/ACT Prep classes, and Advanced Reading (to build fluency and speed while studying or testing), students can learn tips and techniques to aid them in preparation of and during college. To find a Sylvan Learning Center in your country or city, call 1-888-Educate.