Free College Scholarship Search & Financial Aid Information go to
www.Scholarships.com. For finanaicl benefits that may be available to you go
to www.GovBenefits.gov.
10 Ways to Jumpstart College Planning
1. 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).
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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.
9. 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.
10. 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.
For more important information go to www.Scholarships.com.
CONSIDER THE COURSES YOU TAKE AND YOUR EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES.
This is a quote from a letter guidance received from a major university:
This year we experienced over a 12% increase in applications, resulting in
more than 30,000 applications for 2,800 available spots in the freshman
class. In reviewing our applications we consider the following aspects of
each applicant carefully: performance in high school (grades, quality of
courses, rank in class, trends in grades, performance in courses related to
academic area of interest); test scores (SAT or ACT); recommendations;
personal statement; extracurricular involvement; and interested area of
study. In our process, we also value evidence of a students resiliency,
leadership abilities and creativity. It is important to note that
major/college choice plays an important role in our decisions as very popular
programs can only accommodate a limited number of new students each year.
