· While entrance requirements vary, most schools require
core college preparation courses. Planning your high school curriculum early
will ensure that these requirements are met.
· Master the basics. If you are lacking basic skills, you
may have to take remedial courses in college or develop your study skills.
Remedial courses in college do not give credit for these required classes,
but you will have to pay full tuition fees nonetheless.
· Explore your interests via your classes. Self-evaluate!
Whether it is science, history, English, business, math, home economics,
technology, art or foreign language, your classes give you a chance to find
out what you like. That will help you determine your major (or a realistic
starting point once you get to college.)
What do I need to understand about developing my
transcript?
Remember you begin developing your transcript as soon as you begin taking
high school courses. The transcript contains the following: completed
courses, final grades, regents exam grades, credit awarded, class rank,
cumulative grade average, college entrance exam scores (ACT/SAT) and
Advanced Placement Scores. The cumulative grade average and class rank are
key factors in college admissions decisions. Your day-to-day work is the
most important factor. A good work ethic is key to success in life.
Therefore, doing your best is vital! Furthermore, grades are important, but
so is the difficulty of the courses you take. Instead of going for the easy
'A', choose tougher more rigorous courses. Students who accept the challenge
of academically stimulating classes make a statement that learning is
important.
How should I incorporate the development of skills,
interests and experiences?
Keep in mind that the development of these three areas is not limited to the
classroom. Explore the following: volunteering, extra-curricular activities
or part-time job, leadership, independent intellectual pursuits and computer
literacy.
· Volunteer! The experience adds valuable information as
you choose a career. Also, many scholarships require community service.
Moreover, many colleges look favorably upon community service activities.
· Pursue extra-curricular activities or a part-time job.
These activities prove you are a well-rounded individual who will bring a
lot to a college community. Moreover, a variety of activities also indicates
that you know how to mange your time efficiently.
· Pursue leadership roles.
· Further your own intellectual pursuits independently.
Read and study on your own. Develop your own intellectual interests outside
of class. Improve your language skills and test scores by reading.
· Become computer literate. Take computer science
courses, go to computer camp or work to learn at home or school. Knowing
your way around a computer will definitely come in handy in college and in
the working world.
