9 answers
Leiah
Student
Albuquerque, New Mexico
1
Question
Updated
837 views
Seeking Guidance: Freshman High Schooler Exploring Business Colleges
Started my first year in high school currently. My thoughts are straight on college, only because I want to prep for it early so I could better my chances and know what to do. I only have a few questions that are really on my mind recently.
1. What university would be the best option for me?
2. What can I do throughout high school to improve my chances of getting into a university?
3. How should I know what universities to avoid?
4. Just in general what I could do or involve myself in, to improve myself in high school as well as for the future for universities.
With that my interests for business going in depth are focused mainly on, management, finance and analytics.
I have also been looking into colleges that are business related and are top in business, but I'm still not sure which and where to go.
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9 answers
Josh Bischoff
Experience Product Owner
6
Answers
Columbus, Ohio
Updated
Josh’s Answer
1. What university would be the best option for me?
A: It's tough to make a pick for someone else, but in business you should consider cost of attendance. For example, a strong state school will usually cost less to attend than a private or out of state school, and completing as many college courses as possible through a community college will also save you. If you graduate with a lower debt burden, you will have greater financial flexibility to make certain sacrifices earlier in your career to get a head start. For example, you could take a lower paying job to either get your foot in the door at your dream company or get experience doing something that would require more experience elsewhere.
2. What can I do throughout high school to improve my chances of getting into a university?
A: Know where to concentrate your energy. You could focus on one of your weaker areas if it might hold you back in college admissions, or you could focus on areas that are more relevant to your career of choice. Putting your max effort into everything can burn you out, and prioritization is a valuable skill in the business world.
3. How should I know what universities to avoid?
A: Look at the total cost of attendance vs. the expected earnings for graduates to avoid paying for more than what you are getting. Pay attention to ratings and accreditation to avoid schools that are only trying to get you in and out the door without providing a quality education.
4. Just in general what I could do or involve myself in, to improve myself in high school as well as for the future for universities.
A: If you want to be in business, an advantage is that just about any extracurricular activity has leadership positions to improve your resume. Even if there are no business-related clubs like DECA available, aim to be an officer in whatever clubs you do join. You will gain experience in leadership, finance, and project management that will be useful in many places down the road.
A: It's tough to make a pick for someone else, but in business you should consider cost of attendance. For example, a strong state school will usually cost less to attend than a private or out of state school, and completing as many college courses as possible through a community college will also save you. If you graduate with a lower debt burden, you will have greater financial flexibility to make certain sacrifices earlier in your career to get a head start. For example, you could take a lower paying job to either get your foot in the door at your dream company or get experience doing something that would require more experience elsewhere.
2. What can I do throughout high school to improve my chances of getting into a university?
A: Know where to concentrate your energy. You could focus on one of your weaker areas if it might hold you back in college admissions, or you could focus on areas that are more relevant to your career of choice. Putting your max effort into everything can burn you out, and prioritization is a valuable skill in the business world.
3. How should I know what universities to avoid?
A: Look at the total cost of attendance vs. the expected earnings for graduates to avoid paying for more than what you are getting. Pay attention to ratings and accreditation to avoid schools that are only trying to get you in and out the door without providing a quality education.
4. Just in general what I could do or involve myself in, to improve myself in high school as well as for the future for universities.
A: If you want to be in business, an advantage is that just about any extracurricular activity has leadership positions to improve your resume. Even if there are no business-related clubs like DECA available, aim to be an officer in whatever clubs you do join. You will gain experience in leadership, finance, and project management that will be useful in many places down the road.
Collins Lucky
Data Entryspecialist, Cost analysis, Repairing of all kinds of smartphones, Apple, & Samsung mobile.
48
Answers
Bonny, RV
Updated
Collins’s Answer
Hello Leiah,
It's fantastic to see you're already planning ahead for your college journey! Here's some friendly advice to help steer you in the right direction:
### 1. **Finding the Perfect University**
- Start by exploring top-notch business schools such as Wharton, MIT Sloan, or Michigan Ross.
- Prioritize schools that offer robust programs in management, finance, and analytics.
- Don't forget to think about factors like location, campus vibe, and financial aid opportunities.
### 2. **Boosting Your Admission Prospects**
- Maintain high grades, particularly in subjects related to your field of interest.
- Join business clubs like DECA/FBLA and strive for leadership positions.
- Engage in community service and think about attending summer business programs.
### 3. **Universities to Steer Clear Of**
- Avoid schools with underperforming business programs or low job placement statistics.
- Make sure the business program has AACSB accreditation.
### 4. **Broadening Your Horizons**
- Build connections with teachers and business professionals.
- Work on enhancing skills such as public speaking, teamwork, and problem-solving.
- Enroll in online courses related to business to expand your understanding.
This advice should help keep your college application strong and competitive!
It's fantastic to see you're already planning ahead for your college journey! Here's some friendly advice to help steer you in the right direction:
### 1. **Finding the Perfect University**
- Start by exploring top-notch business schools such as Wharton, MIT Sloan, or Michigan Ross.
- Prioritize schools that offer robust programs in management, finance, and analytics.
- Don't forget to think about factors like location, campus vibe, and financial aid opportunities.
### 2. **Boosting Your Admission Prospects**
- Maintain high grades, particularly in subjects related to your field of interest.
- Join business clubs like DECA/FBLA and strive for leadership positions.
- Engage in community service and think about attending summer business programs.
### 3. **Universities to Steer Clear Of**
- Avoid schools with underperforming business programs or low job placement statistics.
- Make sure the business program has AACSB accreditation.
### 4. **Broadening Your Horizons**
- Build connections with teachers and business professionals.
- Work on enhancing skills such as public speaking, teamwork, and problem-solving.
- Enroll in online courses related to business to expand your understanding.
This advice should help keep your college application strong and competitive!
Thank you! This advice is really eye opening for what I should go for! Appreciate it.
Best wishes
Leiah
Davielle Panzullo, M.A., PMP
Warehouse Manager
31
Answers
Irvine, California
Updated
Davielle’s Answer
Leiah, thank you for reaching out and letting us know you are interesting in pursuing education in business. I would suggest you look at a couple of things in order to best evaluate the school in which you enroll in. First, how close do you want to be to home? Do you want to be in the same city, in the same state/coast, do you want an international school? Next, do you like a small classroom environment (more accountability) or are you disciplined and like large classrooms. Finally, do you want to pursue a specialized program. Schools like University of Redlands offers specialized degrees to pursue topics that are of interest to you.
Concerning what you should do in high school. Volunteer - you can find opportunities at school - talk to your teachers and leadership (Principal and Vice Principal, Counselor). They can help you find partnerships to strengthen your business experience. You can look for internships, paid or unpaid, in community businesses. You are in Albuquerque, which is a big city, so you have a lot of options. And you may want to focus on a regional variation. By that, I mean, whether or not you are Native American, there is a large population of Native Americans in Albuquerque - you may want to focus on small business, for example, and create a business that specifically helps and services the Native American population. If you know what area of business that interests you - HR, Marketing, Accounting, Data Analytics you can reach out to those areas' trade organizations. For example, SHRM for HR, AMA.org for Marketing, aaahq.org for Accounting, isdsa.org for Data Analytics, all can provide information about the long term path for that career. They can tell you about internships, types of jobs, long term prospects for employment. Look into this now, so you have a clear vision of your path.
Really, there are no bad universities. School is what you make it. If you clown around, you won't get a good education, no matter where you go. If you focus and make school a priority, you'll get the skills you need. Use school to network - with teachers, students and those outside the school. You can find people in Albuquerque that graduated from your school of choice. Reach out to them and use their support. People love to help.
For high school - be sure to network with the educators - teachers, VP, P, Counselor (as indicated above). You never know who can help you. They want to know more about you and your interests; your vision of your future. Be sure when you build friendships, find out what your friends' parents do. If it is something that interests you, ask if you can reach out to them directly to find out more about what they do. You could even job shadow them. That would be a great use of your time - even if you have to take time off school.
Best wishes for a great future!
Concerning what you should do in high school. Volunteer - you can find opportunities at school - talk to your teachers and leadership (Principal and Vice Principal, Counselor). They can help you find partnerships to strengthen your business experience. You can look for internships, paid or unpaid, in community businesses. You are in Albuquerque, which is a big city, so you have a lot of options. And you may want to focus on a regional variation. By that, I mean, whether or not you are Native American, there is a large population of Native Americans in Albuquerque - you may want to focus on small business, for example, and create a business that specifically helps and services the Native American population. If you know what area of business that interests you - HR, Marketing, Accounting, Data Analytics you can reach out to those areas' trade organizations. For example, SHRM for HR, AMA.org for Marketing, aaahq.org for Accounting, isdsa.org for Data Analytics, all can provide information about the long term path for that career. They can tell you about internships, types of jobs, long term prospects for employment. Look into this now, so you have a clear vision of your path.
Really, there are no bad universities. School is what you make it. If you clown around, you won't get a good education, no matter where you go. If you focus and make school a priority, you'll get the skills you need. Use school to network - with teachers, students and those outside the school. You can find people in Albuquerque that graduated from your school of choice. Reach out to them and use their support. People love to help.
For high school - be sure to network with the educators - teachers, VP, P, Counselor (as indicated above). You never know who can help you. They want to know more about you and your interests; your vision of your future. Be sure when you build friendships, find out what your friends' parents do. If it is something that interests you, ask if you can reach out to them directly to find out more about what they do. You could even job shadow them. That would be a great use of your time - even if you have to take time off school.
Best wishes for a great future!
Thank you very much! I will look into those things for sure now! Appreciate all the tips and help!
Leiah
Chinyere Okafor
Educationist and Counseling Psychologist
372
Answers
Port Harcourt, Rivers, Nigeria
Updated
Chinyere’s Answer
Hello Leiah,
You're Ahead of the Game!
It's splendid that you're already thinking about college and your career path as a freshman. You're Ahead of the Game! Your focus on business, with a particular interest in management, finance, and analytics, is a great start.
Answering Your Questions
1. What university would be the best option for me?
It's too early to say. The "best" university depends on various factors like your academic profile, extracurriculars, financial situation, and personal preferences. Your interests in business are a good starting point, but there are many other factors to consider.
Focus on building a strong foundation in high school. This will increase your options when it comes time to apply to colleges.
2. What can I do throughout high school to improve my chances of getting into a university?
Academics: Maintain a strong GPA, especially in core subjects like math, science, and English.
Standardized Tests: Prepare for and take the SAT or ACT.
Extracurriculars: Get involved in clubs, sports, or community service. Show leadership and dedication.
Develop Soft Skills: Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking are essential.
Summer Activities: Participate in internships, volunteering, or academic programs.
3. How should I know what universities to avoid?
Research: Look into schools' academic programs, campus culture, location, and cost.
Visit Campuses: If possible, visit schools you're interested in. This will give you a feel for the campus and student life.
Talk to Current Students and Alumni: Get their perspectives on the school.
4. What can I do to improve myself in high school and for the future?
Explore Business Interests: Read business books, articles, and news. Attend business-related events or webinars.
Develop Technical Skills: Learn software like Excel, Python, or data analysis tools.
Networking: Build relationships with professionals in your desired field.
Personal Development: Focus on time management, organization, and leadership skills.
Additional Tips
Start Building Relationships with Teachers: They can provide guidance, recommendations, and support.
Consider a Mentor: A mentor can offer valuable advice and support.
Explore Career Options: Research different career paths within business to find your passion.
Save Money: Start saving for college expenses early.
It is worthy to note that, College admissions are competitive, but with dedication and hard work, you can achieve your goals. It's important to enjoy the high school experience while preparing for the future.
Best wishes!
You're Ahead of the Game!
It's splendid that you're already thinking about college and your career path as a freshman. You're Ahead of the Game! Your focus on business, with a particular interest in management, finance, and analytics, is a great start.
Answering Your Questions
1. What university would be the best option for me?
It's too early to say. The "best" university depends on various factors like your academic profile, extracurriculars, financial situation, and personal preferences. Your interests in business are a good starting point, but there are many other factors to consider.
Focus on building a strong foundation in high school. This will increase your options when it comes time to apply to colleges.
2. What can I do throughout high school to improve my chances of getting into a university?
Academics: Maintain a strong GPA, especially in core subjects like math, science, and English.
Standardized Tests: Prepare for and take the SAT or ACT.
Extracurriculars: Get involved in clubs, sports, or community service. Show leadership and dedication.
Develop Soft Skills: Communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking are essential.
Summer Activities: Participate in internships, volunteering, or academic programs.
3. How should I know what universities to avoid?
Research: Look into schools' academic programs, campus culture, location, and cost.
Visit Campuses: If possible, visit schools you're interested in. This will give you a feel for the campus and student life.
Talk to Current Students and Alumni: Get their perspectives on the school.
4. What can I do to improve myself in high school and for the future?
Explore Business Interests: Read business books, articles, and news. Attend business-related events or webinars.
Develop Technical Skills: Learn software like Excel, Python, or data analysis tools.
Networking: Build relationships with professionals in your desired field.
Personal Development: Focus on time management, organization, and leadership skills.
Additional Tips
Start Building Relationships with Teachers: They can provide guidance, recommendations, and support.
Consider a Mentor: A mentor can offer valuable advice and support.
Explore Career Options: Research different career paths within business to find your passion.
Save Money: Start saving for college expenses early.
It is worthy to note that, College admissions are competitive, but with dedication and hard work, you can achieve your goals. It's important to enjoy the high school experience while preparing for the future.
Best wishes!
Chinyere, thank you for the more than helpful answer! This really helped me get an overview of what I can do as of this moment. Really helpful I’ll take everything into account.
Again thank you!
Best Regards!
Leiah
Glad I could help!
Chinyere Okafor
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
5724
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Leiah!
## Let's Forge Your Business Journey!
**Impressive to see such foresight!** It's wonderful that you're proactively considering your college and career trajectory. Let's dissect your queries and construct a blueprint for your high school journey.
### 1. Selecting the Ideal University
**It's premature to zero in on a particular university.** The optimal choice hinges on several elements:
* **Your academic prowess:** Which subjects do you excel in?
* **Your career aspirations:** Is there a specific industry or role you're aiming for?
* **Financial factors:** What's your budget?
* **Geographical preferences:** Do you favor a bustling city or a cozy town?
**Concentrate on establishing a robust academic base** during your high school years. This will pave the way to a broader spectrum of universities.
### 2. Boosting Your University Admission Prospects
Here are some crucial areas to concentrate on:
* **Academics:** Keep your grades high in fundamental subjects like math, science, English, and history.
* **Standardized tests:** Gear up for and take the SAT or ACT.
* **Extracurricular activities:** Participate in clubs, sports teams, or volunteer groups.
* **Leadership roles:** Pursue leadership positions in clubs or groups.
* **Community engagement:** Donate your time to assist others.
* **Hone strong communication and interpersonal skills.**
### 3. Recognizing Universities to Sidestep
While it's vital to know which universities to target, **don't stress excessively about dodging certain ones** at this juncture. Concentrate on enhancing your profile and exploring diverse options.
### 4. Broad Advice for High School and Beyond
* **Investigate business-related fields:** Enroll in business classes, attend business-related events, and shadow professionals.
* **Cultivate strong analytical skills:** Math and statistics are fundamental for business.
* **Polish your communication skills:** Practice public speaking and writing.
* **Expand a robust network:** Connect with individuals in the business sphere.
* **Foster leadership skills:** Assume leadership roles in school and extracurricular activities.
### Your Fascination with Management, Finance, and Analytics
Your interest in management, finance, and analytics is an excellent springboard. Consider enrolling in these subjects to delve deeper into your passions.
**To whittle down your university options**, you can:
* Investigate business schools and their offerings.
* Tour college campuses and engage with current students and faculty.
* Attend college expos.
* Utilize online resources like college rankings and comparison tools.
Remember, this is merely the onset of your journey. Relish your high school years, delve into your passions, and don't hesitate to shift your perspective.
**Would you like to probe further into any of these areas?** For instance, we could talk about specific extracurricular activities or delve into potential business-related majors.
God Bless You!
JC.
## Let's Forge Your Business Journey!
**Impressive to see such foresight!** It's wonderful that you're proactively considering your college and career trajectory. Let's dissect your queries and construct a blueprint for your high school journey.
### 1. Selecting the Ideal University
**It's premature to zero in on a particular university.** The optimal choice hinges on several elements:
* **Your academic prowess:** Which subjects do you excel in?
* **Your career aspirations:** Is there a specific industry or role you're aiming for?
* **Financial factors:** What's your budget?
* **Geographical preferences:** Do you favor a bustling city or a cozy town?
**Concentrate on establishing a robust academic base** during your high school years. This will pave the way to a broader spectrum of universities.
### 2. Boosting Your University Admission Prospects
Here are some crucial areas to concentrate on:
* **Academics:** Keep your grades high in fundamental subjects like math, science, English, and history.
* **Standardized tests:** Gear up for and take the SAT or ACT.
* **Extracurricular activities:** Participate in clubs, sports teams, or volunteer groups.
* **Leadership roles:** Pursue leadership positions in clubs or groups.
* **Community engagement:** Donate your time to assist others.
* **Hone strong communication and interpersonal skills.**
### 3. Recognizing Universities to Sidestep
While it's vital to know which universities to target, **don't stress excessively about dodging certain ones** at this juncture. Concentrate on enhancing your profile and exploring diverse options.
### 4. Broad Advice for High School and Beyond
* **Investigate business-related fields:** Enroll in business classes, attend business-related events, and shadow professionals.
* **Cultivate strong analytical skills:** Math and statistics are fundamental for business.
* **Polish your communication skills:** Practice public speaking and writing.
* **Expand a robust network:** Connect with individuals in the business sphere.
* **Foster leadership skills:** Assume leadership roles in school and extracurricular activities.
### Your Fascination with Management, Finance, and Analytics
Your interest in management, finance, and analytics is an excellent springboard. Consider enrolling in these subjects to delve deeper into your passions.
**To whittle down your university options**, you can:
* Investigate business schools and their offerings.
* Tour college campuses and engage with current students and faculty.
* Attend college expos.
* Utilize online resources like college rankings and comparison tools.
Remember, this is merely the onset of your journey. Relish your high school years, delve into your passions, and don't hesitate to shift your perspective.
**Would you like to probe further into any of these areas?** For instance, we could talk about specific extracurricular activities or delve into potential business-related majors.
God Bless You!
JC.
Thank you a lot for this wonderful advice! I’ll take it all into consideration. Thanks!
Leiah
Adaobi Ogheneovo B.SC Acct, MPA , IBM
CLIENT MANAGER
40
Answers
Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
Updated
Adaobi’s Answer
It's fantastic that you're already thinking about your future and exploring ways to enhance your skills! Let's break down your interests in management, finance, and analytics, and I'll offer some guidance on improving in those areas during high school and beyond.
Improving Analytical Skills:
1. Data Literacy and Analysis:
- Data is everywhere, and being able to analyze, interpret, and question it is crucial. Consider learning about data literacy—understanding how to work with data effectively.
- Explore online courses or resources that teach data analysis. Harvard Business School Online offers courses on business analytics. These courses cover topics like big data, optimization, data visualization, and decision models.
- Practice analyzing real-world datasets. You can find publicly available datasets online with which to work.
2. Visualizing Data:
- Learn how to create meaningful visualizations from data. Tools like Excel, Tableau, or Python libraries (such as Matplotlib or Seaborn) can help you visualize trends and patterns.
Strengthening Financial Analysis Skills:
1. Learn the Basics - Understand financial statements (income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement) and their components.
- Explore financial ratios (e.g., profitability ratios, liquidity ratios) and financial modelling.
2. Online Courses and Resources:
- Consider taking online courses related to financial analysis. Harvard Business School Online also offers resources in this area³.
- Explore platforms like Coursera, edX, or Khan Academy for free or affordable courses.
3. Practice:
- Analyze financial statements of real companies. Look at annual reports or SEC filings.
- Practice building financial models (e.g., discounted cash flow models) to evaluate investment decisions.
Developing Management Skills:
1. Leadership and Communication:
- Join clubs or organizations in high school where you can take on leadership roles. This could be student government, debate club, or even organizing events.
- Work on your communication skills—both written and verbal. Effective managers need to convey ideas clearly.
2. Learn from Others:
- Read books or articles on management and leadership. Biographies of successful leaders can provide valuable insights.
- Observe how effective managers operate in different contexts (e.g., teachers, coaches, community leaders).
3. Problem-Solving and Decision-Making:
- Participate in case competitions or problem-solving activities. These help you think critically and make informed decisions.
- Learn about different decision-making models (e.g., SWOT analysis, cost-benefit analysis).
Exploring Top Business Schools:
When it comes to choosing a university for business studies, consider reputable institutions known for their business programs. Here are some top-ranked business schools:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) - Sloan School of Management**
- University of Pennsylvania (Wharton School)
- Carnegie Mellon University (Tepper School of Business)
- New York University (Stern School of Business)
- University of California, Berkeley (Haas School of Business)
- University of Chicago (Booth School of Business)
Remember that each university has its unique strengths, culture, and opportunities. Research their programs, faculty, alumni network, and campus life to find the best fit for you. And don't hesitate to reach out to current students or alumni for insights!
Feel free to explore extracurricular activities related to your interests, such as business clubs, internships, or volunteering. These experiences will enrich your journey and help you stand out when applying to universities.
Improving Analytical Skills:
1. Data Literacy and Analysis:
- Data is everywhere, and being able to analyze, interpret, and question it is crucial. Consider learning about data literacy—understanding how to work with data effectively.
- Explore online courses or resources that teach data analysis. Harvard Business School Online offers courses on business analytics. These courses cover topics like big data, optimization, data visualization, and decision models.
- Practice analyzing real-world datasets. You can find publicly available datasets online with which to work.
2. Visualizing Data:
- Learn how to create meaningful visualizations from data. Tools like Excel, Tableau, or Python libraries (such as Matplotlib or Seaborn) can help you visualize trends and patterns.
Strengthening Financial Analysis Skills:
1. Learn the Basics - Understand financial statements (income statement, balance sheet, cash flow statement) and their components.
- Explore financial ratios (e.g., profitability ratios, liquidity ratios) and financial modelling.
2. Online Courses and Resources:
- Consider taking online courses related to financial analysis. Harvard Business School Online also offers resources in this area³.
- Explore platforms like Coursera, edX, or Khan Academy for free or affordable courses.
3. Practice:
- Analyze financial statements of real companies. Look at annual reports or SEC filings.
- Practice building financial models (e.g., discounted cash flow models) to evaluate investment decisions.
Developing Management Skills:
1. Leadership and Communication:
- Join clubs or organizations in high school where you can take on leadership roles. This could be student government, debate club, or even organizing events.
- Work on your communication skills—both written and verbal. Effective managers need to convey ideas clearly.
2. Learn from Others:
- Read books or articles on management and leadership. Biographies of successful leaders can provide valuable insights.
- Observe how effective managers operate in different contexts (e.g., teachers, coaches, community leaders).
3. Problem-Solving and Decision-Making:
- Participate in case competitions or problem-solving activities. These help you think critically and make informed decisions.
- Learn about different decision-making models (e.g., SWOT analysis, cost-benefit analysis).
Exploring Top Business Schools:
When it comes to choosing a university for business studies, consider reputable institutions known for their business programs. Here are some top-ranked business schools:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) - Sloan School of Management**
- University of Pennsylvania (Wharton School)
- Carnegie Mellon University (Tepper School of Business)
- New York University (Stern School of Business)
- University of California, Berkeley (Haas School of Business)
- University of Chicago (Booth School of Business)
Remember that each university has its unique strengths, culture, and opportunities. Research their programs, faculty, alumni network, and campus life to find the best fit for you. And don't hesitate to reach out to current students or alumni for insights!
Feel free to explore extracurricular activities related to your interests, such as business clubs, internships, or volunteering. These experiences will enrich your journey and help you stand out when applying to universities.
Steve Benkin
project manager
2
Answers
Durham, North Carolina
Updated
Steve’s Answer
First, let me congratulate you on thinking so far ahead in your life! Just by doing this, you have placed yourself above 90% of the population in your age group! There has been a lot of great advice given already, and I will try to add some additional insights that might help you.
1. What university would be the best option for me?
What is the size of the university you would be happiest in: Small, Large - somewhere in between? Are you looking for a vibrant social life or more concerned about the quality of teaching? Is sports important to you? quality and options for food? If you have to pay your way to get a degree, then please consider the financial costs associated with this. A lot people only look at tuition, which - in some cases - may only be 1/2 of the total cost. Most universities have website that will tell you the total cost (room/board, meals, misc. fees) but you may have to search to find that information. Does the location matter? do you want something near your home town? Would you feel comfortable in moving to a state that you have never been to before?
2. What can I do throughout high school to improve my chances of getting into a university?
Work on getting the highest GPA you can. Take advanced placement courses, and try to get a GPA above 4.0 (yes, you can do this!). In some schools, you may even be allowed to take a college course while you are in high school. As your school counselor about options in this area.
Apply to your list of schools as early as possible - never wait until the due date for admission. Do not limit yourself to one school - what happens if you don't get accepted. It is better to have multiple letters of acceptance and turn some done than to be turned down by a few and then have no other options.
Learn about the SAT test and prep, prep, prep. Take SAT prep classes - they are more than worth the money, in my opinion. Of course, you won't have to worry about this in your first year of high school, but definitely explore this in your 2nd year. Some high schools let you take the SAT early - in your Jr. year and the rules used to be that only the highest score would be sent. This may be old information, so I would double check that.
3. How should I know what universities to avoid?
The Internet is your friend. Google the best and worst universities that have degrees you are interested in. Pay attention to why people love or hate a university. Be aware that a lot of complaints could be related to something that doesn't bother you (e.g. you really aren't that concerned about an active social life and people may hate a school because there wasn't much to do after class.). Conversely, a school may be highly rated but falls short in one area that is important to you (sports, etc.).
There are a lot of websites to review schools. I like this one in particular https://www.niche.com/colleges/rankings/
4. Just in general what I could do or involve myself in, to improve myself in high school as well as for the future for universities.
Try to get a summer/part-time job that is related to your field of interest. You mention business and management. I would look into being active in the local student council and run for president. Perhaps manage the school paper, get on the prom committee, etc. anything where you can learn leadership skills. Get a job working for a non-profit, volunteer somewhere where there is a possibility to learn how that company operates.
I would also add these tips: Try to find some students who go to the schools you are interested in and get some time with them. Phone call, zoom call or meet them for lunch if they are in commuting distance. Get a feel for the culture of the school and make sure it aligns with your values. Some schools are ultra conservative, ultra liberal, faith based, etc.
Once you have made a list of potential schools, go visit them in your sophomore year. Talk to the students there to get their feedback.
I hope this helps you on your journey. I wish you the best!
1. What university would be the best option for me?
What is the size of the university you would be happiest in: Small, Large - somewhere in between? Are you looking for a vibrant social life or more concerned about the quality of teaching? Is sports important to you? quality and options for food? If you have to pay your way to get a degree, then please consider the financial costs associated with this. A lot people only look at tuition, which - in some cases - may only be 1/2 of the total cost. Most universities have website that will tell you the total cost (room/board, meals, misc. fees) but you may have to search to find that information. Does the location matter? do you want something near your home town? Would you feel comfortable in moving to a state that you have never been to before?
2. What can I do throughout high school to improve my chances of getting into a university?
Work on getting the highest GPA you can. Take advanced placement courses, and try to get a GPA above 4.0 (yes, you can do this!). In some schools, you may even be allowed to take a college course while you are in high school. As your school counselor about options in this area.
Apply to your list of schools as early as possible - never wait until the due date for admission. Do not limit yourself to one school - what happens if you don't get accepted. It is better to have multiple letters of acceptance and turn some done than to be turned down by a few and then have no other options.
Learn about the SAT test and prep, prep, prep. Take SAT prep classes - they are more than worth the money, in my opinion. Of course, you won't have to worry about this in your first year of high school, but definitely explore this in your 2nd year. Some high schools let you take the SAT early - in your Jr. year and the rules used to be that only the highest score would be sent. This may be old information, so I would double check that.
3. How should I know what universities to avoid?
The Internet is your friend. Google the best and worst universities that have degrees you are interested in. Pay attention to why people love or hate a university. Be aware that a lot of complaints could be related to something that doesn't bother you (e.g. you really aren't that concerned about an active social life and people may hate a school because there wasn't much to do after class.). Conversely, a school may be highly rated but falls short in one area that is important to you (sports, etc.).
There are a lot of websites to review schools. I like this one in particular https://www.niche.com/colleges/rankings/
4. Just in general what I could do or involve myself in, to improve myself in high school as well as for the future for universities.
Try to get a summer/part-time job that is related to your field of interest. You mention business and management. I would look into being active in the local student council and run for president. Perhaps manage the school paper, get on the prom committee, etc. anything where you can learn leadership skills. Get a job working for a non-profit, volunteer somewhere where there is a possibility to learn how that company operates.
I would also add these tips: Try to find some students who go to the schools you are interested in and get some time with them. Phone call, zoom call or meet them for lunch if they are in commuting distance. Get a feel for the culture of the school and make sure it aligns with your values. Some schools are ultra conservative, ultra liberal, faith based, etc.
Once you have made a list of potential schools, go visit them in your sophomore year. Talk to the students there to get their feedback.
I hope this helps you on your journey. I wish you the best!
Jennifer Parkinson
2
Answers
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Utilize your time in HS with strong study skills, good grades, involvement in activities, and community involvement. Be active and look for new experiences while keeping an open mind. Also work to build confidence and independence because once in college, you may be on your own. Best of luck to you!
PwC Impact
575
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
PwC’s Answer
Find what interests you and don't be afraid to ask questions!!!