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mankirat
Student
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when is it good to start thinking about college?
when is it good to start thinking about college?
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6 answers
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity.
4338
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Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Mankirat,
Starting Your College Journey
Starting your journey towards college should ideally begin as early as possible. The best time to begin varies from person to person, but usually, it's recommended to kick-start the process during your high school years. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you:
1. Freshman and Sophomore Years in High School: Your first two years in high school are a great time to start exploring various career paths, interests, and potential majors. Concentrate on building a solid academic base by taking challenging courses that align with your future ambitions.
Also, start researching colleges and universities that offer programs you're interested in. Get to know their admission requirements and look into extracurricular activities that can boost your college application.
2. Junior Year: This is a pivotal time in your college preparation journey. Now's the time to start narrowing down your college choices, visiting campuses, and getting ready for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Keep up your GPA and stay involved in extracurricular activities.
Start drafting your college essays, collecting letters of recommendation, and looking into scholarships and financial aid options. Early planning in this year will help reduce stress in your senior year when applications are due.
3. Senior Year: During your final year of high school, finalize your college list, fill out college applications, and submit all necessary documents before the deadlines. Stay organized and keep track of application deadlines for each college you're applying to.
This is also the time to apply for financial aid by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the CSS Profile if required by some colleges. Review acceptance letters carefully and compare financial aid packages before making your final college choice.
Starting your college journey early in high school gives you plenty of time to explore your options, prepare academically, and make informed decisions about your future education.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:
The College Board: A trusted source offering valuable information on college planning, standardized testing (SAT), financial aid resources, and guidance on the college application process.
U.S. Department of Education: Provides extensive resources on planning for higher education, federal student aid programs, scholarship opportunities, and tips for preparing for college.
National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC): A reliable organization offering guidance on college admissions processes, counseling services for students seeking higher education, and resources for students and parents navigating the college application journey.
Blessings,
JC.
Starting Your College Journey
Starting your journey towards college should ideally begin as early as possible. The best time to begin varies from person to person, but usually, it's recommended to kick-start the process during your high school years. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you:
1. Freshman and Sophomore Years in High School: Your first two years in high school are a great time to start exploring various career paths, interests, and potential majors. Concentrate on building a solid academic base by taking challenging courses that align with your future ambitions.
Also, start researching colleges and universities that offer programs you're interested in. Get to know their admission requirements and look into extracurricular activities that can boost your college application.
2. Junior Year: This is a pivotal time in your college preparation journey. Now's the time to start narrowing down your college choices, visiting campuses, and getting ready for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Keep up your GPA and stay involved in extracurricular activities.
Start drafting your college essays, collecting letters of recommendation, and looking into scholarships and financial aid options. Early planning in this year will help reduce stress in your senior year when applications are due.
3. Senior Year: During your final year of high school, finalize your college list, fill out college applications, and submit all necessary documents before the deadlines. Stay organized and keep track of application deadlines for each college you're applying to.
This is also the time to apply for financial aid by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or the CSS Profile if required by some colleges. Review acceptance letters carefully and compare financial aid packages before making your final college choice.
Starting your college journey early in high school gives you plenty of time to explore your options, prepare academically, and make informed decisions about your future education.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:
The College Board: A trusted source offering valuable information on college planning, standardized testing (SAT), financial aid resources, and guidance on the college application process.
U.S. Department of Education: Provides extensive resources on planning for higher education, federal student aid programs, scholarship opportunities, and tips for preparing for college.
National Association for College Admission Counseling (NACAC): A reliable organization offering guidance on college admissions processes, counseling services for students seeking higher education, and resources for students and parents navigating the college application journey.
Blessings,
JC.
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1548
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Many students have similar question. I am glad to know that you have started thinking about this question. In fact, you start doing the research and thinking about it anytime. However, you may need to find out the career you have interest before submitting your college applications.
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest, e.g. your hobbies, favorite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
E.g. If you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music producer, music composer, etc.
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, banker, engineer, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions :
1. Think about what you have interest, e.g. your hobbies, favorite subjects, etc. and identify the related careers
E.g. If you like music, would you like to be a musician, singer, musical artist, music producer, music composer, etc.
If you have interest in maths, would you like to be an accountant, banker, engineer, financial analyst, maths teacher, etc.
2. Find out more on these careers and determine what you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counsellor, your parents, etc.
4. Shortlist 1-2 careers you would like to pursue
5. Explore the entry criteria of relevant subjects in colleges
Hope this helps! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Dino Ubalde
Educator/Psychologist/Life Coach
179
Answers
Tracy, California
Updated
Dino’s Answer
Hello Mankirat, how's everything going? We're thrilled you've contacted us and we value your participation on our platform. We're eager to provide clear and insightful answers to your queries.
Your question is indeed thought-provoking. Drawing from my extensive experience as a school counselor, I believe my personal insights could be the best response. Do you recall the community helpers from your school days? I bring this up because career paths are a developmental process. The more children are exposed to various careers, the clearer their future aspirations become.
During my tenure, we implemented three distinct career programs in our school:
1) Community Helpers for young students.
2) "High School Life Talk", a transition program for Grade 6 or middle school students.
3) College Orientation for higher level students.
Our guidance program was designed to evolve with the students, supporting their career development as they progressed through the school levels. A robust guidance program can significantly aid students in their career exploration, ensuring they are well-informed about their options.
In addition, our students had access to a comprehensive range of assessments, providing insights into their mental abilities, occupational interests, aptitude tests, and more.
Your question has certainly sparked memories of my own school experiences. Best of luck, Mankirat! Pursue your dreams with passion.
Your question is indeed thought-provoking. Drawing from my extensive experience as a school counselor, I believe my personal insights could be the best response. Do you recall the community helpers from your school days? I bring this up because career paths are a developmental process. The more children are exposed to various careers, the clearer their future aspirations become.
During my tenure, we implemented three distinct career programs in our school:
1) Community Helpers for young students.
2) "High School Life Talk", a transition program for Grade 6 or middle school students.
3) College Orientation for higher level students.
Our guidance program was designed to evolve with the students, supporting their career development as they progressed through the school levels. A robust guidance program can significantly aid students in their career exploration, ensuring they are well-informed about their options.
In addition, our students had access to a comprehensive range of assessments, providing insights into their mental abilities, occupational interests, aptitude tests, and more.
Your question has certainly sparked memories of my own school experiences. Best of luck, Mankirat! Pursue your dreams with passion.
Bharat Mansukhani
2
Answers
Updated
Bharat’s Answer
There's truly no universal solution to this query. However, it's important to take into account your unique talents. Surely, during your primary and middle school years, there were certain subjects where you shined. In the optional steps, I've provided a detailed guide on how you can start contemplating college at various stages.
Here's the golden nugget: It's always a good time to start pondering about college in a broad perspective. The sooner you delve into your passions and what you envision from a college journey, the more seamless your application process will become down the line.
Early High School (Freshman or Sophomore Year): This is a great time to start exploring your interests. Take a variety of classes, join clubs, and volunteer to see what sparks your curiosity. You can also begin researching different colleges (location, size, programs offered) to get a general sense of what you might be looking for later.
Later High School (Junior Year): Now's the time to dive a bit deeper. Look at colleges that offer programs that align with your interests. Start considering factors like cost, campus life, and admissions requirements. You can also talk to your guidance counselor for personalized advice.
Senior Year: This is crunch time for applications! But you'll be well-prepared if you've done some exploration beforehand. Focus on polishing your application materials and meeting deadlines.
Here's the golden nugget: It's always a good time to start pondering about college in a broad perspective. The sooner you delve into your passions and what you envision from a college journey, the more seamless your application process will become down the line.
Bharat recommends the following next steps:
Peter Appel
1
Answer
Updated
Peter’s Answer
You Should Probably start Thinking About College Sometime during Your High School Years and definitely by Your Senior Year in High School. Because in your Senior Year you should be Applying to Colleges that interest you and that you believe you might have a chance at getting into. Most or All of The Schools you apply to usually have Application Fees so if you don’t have the Funds to Pay For an application then Community Colleges might be a good fit. You should also consider asking about Scholarships that Schools Offer for People who may not be able to afford certain Schools.
Good Luck with Whatever you decide to do,
Good Luck with Whatever you decide to do,
Shirley L
Accountant
8
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Shirley’s Answer
Hi Mankirat!
I don't think it is ever too early or late to think about college. Depending on which college you have your heart set on, the requirements can vary.
Some general advice regardless of your choice:
1) Become involved in extracurriculars - It's a great way to meet new people who share the same interests, and it shows colleges you are more than just a student with high grades. It reflects commitment and dedication to build your character when it comes to the college admission process.
2) Take on leadership roles - If there is a club that you're really passionate about, try running for president, vice president, secretary, treasury, etc. Colleges will be impressed by your leadership skills.
3) Study hard - GPA (Grade Point Average) is an important factor for most colleges, and they range from a variety of scales (4.0 or 5.0 in some cases). Try your best in every class and get into a good habit of studying after every class to ensure you understand the lectures.
4) Study for the SAT/ACT - Depending on which college you plan to attend, some colleges will require a SAT score above a certain benchmark. There are tutoring services and free online resources. The most important part of the process is your motivation to strive for better, and never become too complacent.
5) Enroll in AP classes - Depending on your high school, they may offer selected Advanced Placement classes. These are college level classes for high schoolers. There is an exam during the end of the school year (usually May) offered by the College Board, and if applicants can score above a 3,4 or 5, colleges may waive the college course and you can graduate college earlier while saving tuition on one less college course.
Don't forget, college is not just for high school graduates. There are working professionals with other degrees, and are still taking college classes in the evening. We are all lifelong learners and college can open opportunities and new experiences for everyone regardless of your age.
I don't think it is ever too early or late to think about college. Depending on which college you have your heart set on, the requirements can vary.
Some general advice regardless of your choice:
1) Become involved in extracurriculars - It's a great way to meet new people who share the same interests, and it shows colleges you are more than just a student with high grades. It reflects commitment and dedication to build your character when it comes to the college admission process.
2) Take on leadership roles - If there is a club that you're really passionate about, try running for president, vice president, secretary, treasury, etc. Colleges will be impressed by your leadership skills.
3) Study hard - GPA (Grade Point Average) is an important factor for most colleges, and they range from a variety of scales (4.0 or 5.0 in some cases). Try your best in every class and get into a good habit of studying after every class to ensure you understand the lectures.
4) Study for the SAT/ACT - Depending on which college you plan to attend, some colleges will require a SAT score above a certain benchmark. There are tutoring services and free online resources. The most important part of the process is your motivation to strive for better, and never become too complacent.
5) Enroll in AP classes - Depending on your high school, they may offer selected Advanced Placement classes. These are college level classes for high schoolers. There is an exam during the end of the school year (usually May) offered by the College Board, and if applicants can score above a 3,4 or 5, colleges may waive the college course and you can graduate college earlier while saving tuition on one less college course.
Don't forget, college is not just for high school graduates. There are working professionals with other degrees, and are still taking college classes in the evening. We are all lifelong learners and college can open opportunities and new experiences for everyone regardless of your age.