3 answers
hailey
Student
Hialeah, Florida
1
Question
Asked
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whats the best way to get into a decent college?
i want to know more or less good tips on what i should have
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3 answers
Joseph Palmaffy
Dean of Students
15
Answers
Henderson, Nevada
Updated
Joseph’s Answer
The best way to have the opportunity to get into good colleges begins with focusing on academics and doing work in the field you are interested in majoring in.
Communicate with your teachers to get their assistance in class
Network with people who can help with recommendations
Put in additional time into activities that are associated with your desired field of study
Joseph recommends the following next steps:
Martha Kramer
Corporate Training, Communications
353
Answers
Stamford, Connecticut
Updated
Martha’s Answer
You're asking a great question, Hailey. I don't know what year of high school you are in or exactly what you mean by "decent". But here are some tips:
- Start identifying colleges early (e.g., sophomore year) and make sure you are taking the high school courses they expect you to have
- Take the most challenging academic courses you feel comfortable taking, especially those related to your potential majors. But don't take such a difficult load that either your health and GPA (or both) suffer.
- Pick a few extra-curriculars you could stick with so you could show growth in skill and leadership (one could be a job). This is better than a lot of activities in which you can't show growth
- Even Ivy League colleges are still test-optional for this admission cycle, some even for the next cycle. Check colleges you are likely to apply to. If they require standardized tests, take time to practice the questions. That likely will pay off in terms of reducing anxiety, increasing accuracy, and finishing within the time limits.
- You will need recommendations from at least one teacher. Think about who would be willing to help you and could talk about your academic achievement and potential. Then ask them early in your senior year so they have plenty of time to write a thoughtful recommendation.
Good luck!
Identify colleges/universities you are interested in and become familiar with their admissions websites
Choose courses that are challenging, but not so much that they harm your health
Participate in extra-curriculars in which you can demonstrate growth in skill and/or leadership
- Start identifying colleges early (e.g., sophomore year) and make sure you are taking the high school courses they expect you to have
- Take the most challenging academic courses you feel comfortable taking, especially those related to your potential majors. But don't take such a difficult load that either your health and GPA (or both) suffer.
- Pick a few extra-curriculars you could stick with so you could show growth in skill and leadership (one could be a job). This is better than a lot of activities in which you can't show growth
- Even Ivy League colleges are still test-optional for this admission cycle, some even for the next cycle. Check colleges you are likely to apply to. If they require standardized tests, take time to practice the questions. That likely will pay off in terms of reducing anxiety, increasing accuracy, and finishing within the time limits.
- You will need recommendations from at least one teacher. Think about who would be willing to help you and could talk about your academic achievement and potential. Then ask them early in your senior year so they have plenty of time to write a thoughtful recommendation.
Good luck!
Martha recommends the following next steps:
Ezra Jackson
Security
81
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Ezra’s Answer
Hi there,
Gaining admission to a decent college isn't as challenging as you might think. I can attest to this as I'm familiar with students who've managed to get into state colleges and universities with a GPA of 2.0. Clearly, maintaining good grades is crucial, so make sure to put forth your best effort in this area. In addition, colleges appreciate students who participate in sports and are actively involved in their communities.
Gaining admission to a decent college isn't as challenging as you might think. I can attest to this as I'm familiar with students who've managed to get into state colleges and universities with a GPA of 2.0. Clearly, maintaining good grades is crucial, so make sure to put forth your best effort in this area. In addition, colleges appreciate students who participate in sports and are actively involved in their communities.