Here’s How To Get Into A College
With Father’s Day behind us, summer has officially begun. The last final exam has been taken, the last graduation party has been thrown, and the only large yellow objects that are moving very quickly are the deep-fried Twinkies at the town carnival.
In the eyes of any high school student, this is the time to check out the barbecue, the time to check out the summer concert series, the time to check out the sweet ride Jamie got as a graduation present-but it is definitely not the time to think about how to get into a college.
I agree.
“But dog” says you, “my mom saw this column called ‘Here’s How to Get Into a College’ and she wants me to read it-she said it had something to do with growing up. She’s quizzing me after I read it, and if all I know is that you want me to chill this summer, she’ll make me doing something way worse, like get a job.”
Dog, I hear you, so I’ll help you out, but I’ll make this quick-it’s almost time to flip the burgers. Here’s how to get into a college in three easy steps:
Take a tough schedule in high school. Most students see high school as boring because they take boring classes. There’s a way to fix that-take harder classes.
Don’t get me wrong-I don’t want you pulling your hair out because you’ve got six classes that would make Einstein weep. Find classes that will make you think, and require you to have study habits that are more than just glancing at the books before class starts, or writing a paper on the bus the morning it’s due. Get the right balance between challenge and success, and you will do more that get into college-you’ll get out of college with a degree, a ton of knowledge, and a future.
Have fun learning outside of school. Most college applications give these the boring title of “extra-curricular activities”, but they’re anything but boring. You can find groups where you can get better at a talent you’ve always had with friends you’ve always known, or you can meet new people and try something new as well. And if you think extra-curriculars are too athletic or geeky for you, look closely; community centers, art associations, and libraries offer some great things to do, and chances to create a group of your own using their money.
Make a difference to your neighborhood. Most people’s response to “community service” is “Dude!”, but it has a bad rap. Here’s the idea: part of your neighborhood could use some help; you have an ability or interest that can help meet that need; you do some work to connect the two. Voila-community service.
Start now. Look around for a local area in need (your place of worship, city hall, the library) and give of your time-you’ll be surprised how much this experience gives back to you in growth and pride.
No matter what grade you’re heading for in the fall, these three tips can help you make the most out of high school and get you college ready. Think about them every time you bite into a grilled veggie burger this summer, and remember-it’s not just knowing how to get into a college, it’s knowing how to get into a college where you will find support, challenge, and fun.
So report back to dad, and head out to play!
Learn more college counselor training at Pat’s website. Stop by and get your $15 college admissions guide and watch your prospects mushroom!
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