Preparing Ahead
Challenging courses help kids get into college
Research shows that students who take algebra and geometry early (by the end of the eighth and ninth grades) are much more likely to go on to college than students who do not. In a national sample, only 26 percent of low-income students who did not take geometry went to college; but 71 percent of low-income students who took geometry went to college.
It is common in other developed countries for students to have mastered the basics of math, algebra and some geometry by the end of the eighth grade. By taking algebra early in middle and junior high school, students can enroll in chemistry, physics and trigonometry. In addition, students should take three to four years of a foreign language and as many Advanced Placement courses as they can before finishing high school. Make informed decisions about the classes you take and be sure that they are adequate to meet the entrance requirements of most colleges.
Most colleges require the following:
- 1 year of Computer Technology
- 4 years of English
- 2 years of Foreign Language
- 3 years of Math
- 1 year of P.E.
- 3 years of Science
- 3 years of History/Social Studies
Consider advance placement courses.
Develop good study habits including the following:
- Set a regular study schedule
- Save everything
- Listen
- Take notes
- Use textbooks wisely
- Form a study group
Consider being involved in academic competitions and special programs- especially ones that highlight your academic and personal strengths.
Consider being involved in extracurricular activities that you are interested in and reflect who you are. Realize that colleges do like to see consistency in regards to your extracurricular activities.
Talk to your parents about the following:
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How they feel about college for you.
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Are there financial concerns/issues?
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Where do they want you to go to college?
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Do you parents respect your right to make this decision?
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Your parents expectations in regards to your academic performance. Talk to your guidance counselor.
Gather information from college.
Study and take standardized tests (PSAT, SAT, ACT).
Consider using the following links to plan for college:
