Academics

Start on your journey to college by getting the best grades you can. Try to stay as close to A’s and B’s as possible. The next step is to take challenging classes. Remember, there are courses you can take this year that will count towards high school graduation and college admissions. At some middle/junior high schools the courses listed below are awarded high school credit. Ask your guidance counselor about them. These credits will not only count toward high school graduation but also for college admissions. Taking them sooner will allow you to take other college prep courses in high school. Taking these courses also tells colleges you are scholarship material because of your early planning and hard work.

8th grade Honors Algebra I
8th grade Honors Foreign Language I
8th grade Honors Physical Science

If you don’t think you’re ready for these courses take this time to develop good study habits and get good grades in the courses you are taking. Getting good grades is essential to getting a good scholarship.

Extracurricular Activities

Participate in school extracurricular activities and community/volunteer service. Doing so will help you define your career interests and help you develop a well-rounded college portfolio.

A college portfolio is a list of all the classes, community service, organizations, sports, etc. you have participated in during high school. We recommend that you start compiling yours in the 9th grade. It will come in handy when you begin to apply for college admissions and scholarships

Participate in community/volunteer service groups that match areas you think you would like to major in while attending college. You may want to check with your local Boy’s/Girl’s Scouts about their Explorer’s program. This is a career exploration program for students who want additional insight into future careers. Be sure to ask counselors, teachers, and family members about assisting you in locating other early college programs such as: summer programs, after-school programs, mentoring or tutoring programs at elementary schools in your area. Don’t limit your possibilities.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

It’s never too early to share your dream of attending college with family, friends, and others you would like to support your plan. Work with your parent(s) to research as much information as possible on federal financial aid, scholarships, and grants. All this is free money. Begin reading and educate yourself on what you need to do to receive scholarships and grants. Don’t forget to check our links under these areas. Remember, not all colleges cost the same. Do your homework so you’ll have some idea of how much money is needed to attend them. Research those you think you may want to attend. Don’t hesitate to ask for help in gathering this information.

Let’s Summarize

Yes! It’s time to start thinking and planning for college. You can do it! In this process the early bird really does get the worm, and the scholarships, and a great future! At this point you don’t have to know everything, but you do need to begin putting together a good plan of action. College can mean the difference between getting by and getting over. Give yourself more choices in life. Begin your research on academic courses you can take now, extracurricular activities you will enjoy that will give you that extra edge and don’t forget the money. You can go to the college of your choice with little or no cost to you, but it involves early planning and hard work. Strive to excel in every class you take!