Preparing for college

Posted by: Admin at June 27th, 2007

Second term is finally over. Yearbooks and final exams have been exchanged for free time and travel.  Though education may be the last thought on the minds of high school students and parents during the summer months, it is crucial to keep focused.  College is just on the horizon for all students who have the desire and drive to go. However, it is crucial to stay educated about the application process and organized no matter what time of year it may be.

 

1. Assess current standing.  Much of what is crucial on a student’s application are already part of the student’s high school routine.  What is the student’s grade point average or GPA?  Many college admissions websites will include the average GPA of their accepted applicants to help the student decipher whether this school is within his/her range.  In addition, colleges look at a student’s participation in extra curricular activities.  Schools want students who will make positive additions to their school community.  Remember that these extra curricular activities can be great leads when looking for scholarship ideas. 
   

2. Plan.  Now that the student has taken into account where he/she stands, plan ahead. Plan to take entrance exams  (SAT/ ACT) for the first time in the spring of your junior year. Then there is the option to retake it if the student unsatisfied with the end results.  Schools will look at the best verbal and math score– even if the scores were obtained on two different occasions.  To help with preparation, every library and bookstore will have books with practice tests and software.  In addition, the test websites are excellent resources. For even more instruction, there are special prep courses that offer rigorous class work, homework, and practice tests.  Often community centers will offer free or reduced price courses if the private course cost is extravagant. Lastly, at this point it is time for the student to ask up to three of teachers for recommendation letters. These are going to be necessary on most applications so the student should ask early to give teachers plenty of time. 

3. Proceed.  Now it is time to apply.  Students can call or go online to contact the schools they have selected to request an application. It is important not to overextend themselves students should only apply to as many schools as they can comfortably handle for each application requires careful time and effort. They should think of applying to a range of schools, from a “safety school” where this student is confident he/ she will be admitted to, as well as a school that is more of a challenge. If the thought of the application fees adds economic stress, students and parents should contact the school to see if they qualify to have the fee waived.  Also look into the Common Application if the student is applying to many schools– then they can fill out the personal information section only once and save valuable time.

 

Remember to research, stay organized, and set a schedule. Good Luck!

 

Visit these links if you would like to learn more on the different types of student loans and student consolidation loans.