It’s all in the approach.
You can follow the steps laid out for you, but its important to approach the college planning process with some basic tactics for success.
These tips will help keep you focused, organized and inspired.
- Keep your options open.
Your interests and plans may change over the years, so it’s a good idea to take challenging classes every year. Then you’ll be better prepared for higher education or work, whichever you choose. As your interests and needs change, you might take different classes or decide to take a class during a different school year. Just remember to stick with a plan. These help you stay organized and on track for college and beyond.
- Stand out.
Make sure you record unusual travel, leadership activities, talents, and awards. Your unique abilities and experiences can help you stand out in a crowded field of applicants. Think about things you might like to get involved in that may help distinguish you from your peers.
- Get it in writing and share it with others.
Write your goals and plans down on paper and post them where you can see them. Putting your plans down in black and white will make them more real. They’ll serve as a constant reminder of what you’re working toward. Plus, sharing your plans with parents, friends, teachers, or counselors helps everyone get involved in supporting you. Family, friends, and other supporters can help you stay focused and encourage you if you struggle.
- Get involved in activities, study hard, and do your best.
Colleges and employers want to see plenty of effort in tough classes, solid test scores, and a history of participation and leadership. Good grades or test scores are important to colleges. But that’s not the only important factor. Most colleges look at how well you’ve done in school and how hard you’ve worked outside of school. Many colleges would rather see a so-so grade in a tougher course than an “easy A.”
- Use resources.
You might need information from the Internet or library, family support, tutoring, or a quiet place to study. Whatever tools or resources you need to reach your goals, ask for them, demand them. Remember, parents, teachers, and GEAR UP staff are available to help.
- Track your progress.
Once a week, or maybe once a month, think about your progress. Is it taking you longer than you thought to reach some goals? You might need to adjust your deadlines or add more in-between steps. Celebrate each success and think about what’s next.