As college admissions get more competitive every year, it’s important for both students and their parents to start preparing early. Getting a jump on things can really help take the stress out of the application process and set you up for success.
In this guide, we’ll share some practical tips to help you navigate the school year together. From setting goals to exploring fun extracurriculars, we’ll cover everything you need to give yourself an edge as you kick off this important journey toward college!
The first step in preparing for college is establishing clear, achievable goals. Students should think about what they want to accomplish by the end of high school. Is there a GPA they’re aiming for? Do they have colleges in mind? Setting specific, measurable goals can help keep everyone focused and motivated.
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Sit down as a family and write down these goals. Also share them with a teacher or advisor for added accountability. Discussing them together can also help refine the objectives.
Good study habits are essential for academic success. Students should take time to evaluate their current study methods. Are they effective, or do they tend to cram at the last minute? This year, consider adopting strategies like creating a study schedule, breaking tasks into smaller chunks, and using active learning techniques.
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Experiment with different study environments. Some students thrive in quiet spaces, while others prefer a bit of background noise. Parents can help by providing a conducive study space at home.
Colleges look for well-rounded applicants who contribute to their communities. Participating in extracurricular activities is a great way to showcase interests and passions. Whether it’s joining a sports team, participating in a club, or volunteering, these activities can help develop valuable skills.
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Attend club fairs or interest meetings at the beginning of the year. Exploring options can help students discover new opportunities and interests.
High school teachers and guidance counselors can be invaluable resources during the college preparation process. Encouraging students to build relationships with them can lead to mentorship, advice, and strong letters of recommendation.
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Take the initiative to attend office hours or engage with teachers after class. Parents should encourage their children to ask for feedback on assignments and express genuine interest in the subjects.
Don’t wait until senior year to think about where to apply. Begin researching colleges and universities that interest you. Consider factors such as location, size, available majors, campus culture, and extracurricular opportunities. This will help both students and parents understand what to look for in a college.
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Create a shared spreadsheet to track colleges of interest, including application deadlines, admissions requirements, and financial aid options. Also, plan a schedule around open houses and dates to tour campuses. This can be a fun family project!
Academic performance is one of the most crucial components of college applications. Make it a priority to excel in courses, especially challenging ones. If students are struggling in a subject, seek help early—whether it’s from a teacher, tutor, or classmate.
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Consider enrolling in Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses if available. Discuss the benefits with teachers and advisors as well as as a family to help increase motivation.
Many colleges still require standardized test scores as part of their admissions process. While some schools are test-optional, strong scores can enhance an application. Students should familiarize themselves with the SAT or ACT format and take practice tests to gauge readiness.
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Help create a study plan for test preparation. Explore online resources, prep books, or even test prep courses together if needed.
Understanding the financial aspects of college is essential. Research tuition costs, available scholarships, and financial aid options as a family. Learning to budget and manage finances will benefit students as they transition to college life.
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Consider opening a savings account specifically for college expenses. Look for local scholarships or community programs that offer financial literacy workshops you can attend together. You can also download this financial workbook to help you keep track of these financial matters!
High school can be overwhelming, especially with college preparation on the horizon. That said, it’s important for students to practice self-care and manage their time effectively. Developing a balanced schedule that includes academics, hobbies, and downtime is crucial.
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Use digital tools or planners to organize tasks and priorities together. Regularly assess your workload and, if needed, ask for help adjusting your schedule to prevent burnout.
Lastly, maintaining a positive mindset is vital throughout the year. College preparation can be stressful, but setbacks are part of the journey. Cultivating resilience and a growth mindset will help you navigate challenges and stay focused on goals.
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Keep a journal documenting your experiences, challenges, and achievements. Reflecting on your journey with your family can help you celebrate your progress and stay motivated.
Remember, preparing for college is a marathon, not a sprint. By taking these proactive steps together, students and their parents can ensure a smoother transition into the college application process. Embrace the journey, stay focused, and most importantly, enjoy this exciting time in your lives!
Need more assistance? Contact us for a more tailored schedule and step-by-step guidance throughout this college admissions process.