Terrier News

As a sophomore, you begin to realize that you are two years away from really starting your life. You believe you have time but let’s not forget that your high school graduation is right around the corner. Don’t believe that being only a sophomore, you don’t have to begin preparing for college just yet. There actually quite a few things you can do now that can become really helpful in the future. Mind you, you don’t have to follow this entire list but some of these things are worth taking into consideration:

Tip #1: Start getting ready for the ACT.

Ask your guidance counselor about the PLAN assessment program offered by American College Testing. This program helps determine your study habits and academic progress and interests; it will also prepare you for the ACT.

Tip #2: Stay on track with your courses.

Work with your guidance counselor or even your teachers to make sure you’re enrolled in the courses you need to prepare you for college or a career. Move on to the next level of classes in the core subjects such as English, math, science, history, and a foreign language. All of these credits will come in handy when you’re applying to colleges.

Tip #3: Begin learning about the college enrolment process.

Get familiar with general college entrance requirements. The guidance counselor’s office, the library, college web sites, and advice articles are all good sources of information. It’s not an easy process so start to learn now so you’re not running around at the last minute, unsure what to do.

Tip #4: Take on new roles.

This simply means to stack up some volunteer hours. Stay involved with your extracurricular activities and work toward leadership positions in the activities you like best. Become involved in community service and other volunteer activities. College like to see you’re active and have some experience outside of school on your shoulders.

Tip #5: Read, read and read some more.

When some people hear the word read, they run away or throw up their nose in disgust. I should know. Some of those people are my friends. Developing your reading skills will help prepare you for tests and make you a well-rounded individual. Read as many books as you can and read the newspaper to learn about current affairs.

Tip #6: Practice your writing.

From poems, stories, news articles and so much more. Writing is just a major as reading when it comes to college. You’ll need good writing skills no matter what path you pursue, so work on those skills now to get prepared. Find a teacher or another adult who can advise and encourage you to improve your writing skills.

Tip #7: Talk to your counselors.

Meet with your guidance counselor to make sure you’re staying on track. You can also discuss your PSAT scores and ask about postsecondary enrollment options and Advanced Placement (AP) courses.

Tip #8: Keep your grades up.

This one is too obvious and should already be on your mind. The first thing colleges look at, besides your name, is your grades and not just in your senior year. Every year counts, even before high school. There’s probably a lot competing for your attention, such as sports or friends or what some girl said about you on Snapchat. All those might be on your mind but it’s important to remain focused on doing well in your classes. Remember that your grades affect your GPA and class rank—two factors that colleges consider in the admissions process.

Tip #9: Start searching for colleges now.

Write to schools and ask for more information about their academic requirements and any programs or activities that you’re interested in. It’s especially important to start this process now if you think you want to attend a military academy. Looking up a college and reading about them is not enough. Taking further action is what will truly prepare you for a better future.

Tip # 10: Consider finding a summer job.

Finding steady summer work will look good to prospective colleges and employers. Putting the money you earn away for college will also help you get a head start on a personal savings plan. No one wants to pay right out of their pocket or have to worry about student loans after graduating.Save yourself some trouble.