7 answers
Natalie
Student
Gary, Indiana
4
Questions
Asked
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Translated from Latin .
What steps should I take to earn my Bachelor's Degree?
What steps should I take to earn my Bachelor's Degree?
I am currently a 9th grade freshman in Highschool taking college classes that will help me get college credits early on and more, and I was wondering ''What steps I should take to earn my Bachelor's Degree'' since this will also help me not only with the career I am working towards but also help me learn more, and of course, ''Look good on my record''.
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7 answers
Wayne Archibald
Cybersecurity Associate Director here to share knowledge!
217
Answers
Silver Spring, Maryland
Updated
Wayne’s Answer
Hello Natalie! Studies show that students who perform well in 9th grade are more likely to complete high school, enroll in college, and even stay on beyond their first year. This highlights the significance of 9th grade in shaping your future. So, let's explore some steps you can take to lay a strong foundation for your college admission.
1. Strive for excellence in your classes. While the junior year is often considered crucial for college admissions, it's vital to maintain a consistent performance throughout high school. Your freshman year contributes to your cumulative GPA and class rank, which are key factors in selective college admissions. Aiming for a high GPA from the start will ease your journey through high school.
2. Consider the honors track. If you're aiming for a wide range of college options, it's important to take challenging courses from 9th grade onwards. Enrolling in several AP courses by your junior and senior year is beneficial if you're applying to competitive colleges. However, don't push yourself to take all honors classes if you're struggling in some areas. A balanced schedule with both honors and non-honors classes might work better for you.
3. Engage in your school community. Freshman year is a perfect time to explore extracurricular activities. Dabble in different areas that interest you, whether it's politics, music, arts, sports, or drama. Remember, the aim is not to join activities just to build a long resume, but to find genuine interests where you can eventually take on leadership roles.
4. Learn a foreign language. Most prestigious schools expect applicants to have studied a foreign language for four or more years. So, if you're aiming for top-tier institutions, start learning a language from 9th grade and continue throughout high school. Even if your target colleges require fewer years of language study, starting early is always beneficial.
5. Build a relationship with your guidance counselor. Despite their heavy caseloads, guidance counselors play a crucial role in your college exploration, selection, and admissions processes. It's your responsibility to schedule meetings with them from your freshman year to start the college exploration process. Being proactive will definitely pay off in the long run.
6. Start exploring your interests. Most schools offer college/career/personality surveys to students from late-middle or early-high school. These surveys can spark an interest in potential careers and guide you towards your dream college.
7. Make the most of your summer. The summer after freshman year is an ideal time to get your first job, volunteer locally, or attend a summer program on a college campus. You could also use this time to prepare for the SAT/ACT and research potential colleges. Even if you choose a more relaxed summer break, aim to achieve at least one thing that will help refine your college search before sophomore year begins.
Good luck!
1. Strive for excellence in your classes. While the junior year is often considered crucial for college admissions, it's vital to maintain a consistent performance throughout high school. Your freshman year contributes to your cumulative GPA and class rank, which are key factors in selective college admissions. Aiming for a high GPA from the start will ease your journey through high school.
2. Consider the honors track. If you're aiming for a wide range of college options, it's important to take challenging courses from 9th grade onwards. Enrolling in several AP courses by your junior and senior year is beneficial if you're applying to competitive colleges. However, don't push yourself to take all honors classes if you're struggling in some areas. A balanced schedule with both honors and non-honors classes might work better for you.
3. Engage in your school community. Freshman year is a perfect time to explore extracurricular activities. Dabble in different areas that interest you, whether it's politics, music, arts, sports, or drama. Remember, the aim is not to join activities just to build a long resume, but to find genuine interests where you can eventually take on leadership roles.
4. Learn a foreign language. Most prestigious schools expect applicants to have studied a foreign language for four or more years. So, if you're aiming for top-tier institutions, start learning a language from 9th grade and continue throughout high school. Even if your target colleges require fewer years of language study, starting early is always beneficial.
5. Build a relationship with your guidance counselor. Despite their heavy caseloads, guidance counselors play a crucial role in your college exploration, selection, and admissions processes. It's your responsibility to schedule meetings with them from your freshman year to start the college exploration process. Being proactive will definitely pay off in the long run.
6. Start exploring your interests. Most schools offer college/career/personality surveys to students from late-middle or early-high school. These surveys can spark an interest in potential careers and guide you towards your dream college.
7. Make the most of your summer. The summer after freshman year is an ideal time to get your first job, volunteer locally, or attend a summer program on a college campus. You could also use this time to prepare for the SAT/ACT and research potential colleges. Even if you choose a more relaxed summer break, aim to achieve at least one thing that will help refine your college search before sophomore year begins.
Good luck!
Mbah Wai-Tanyi Aguh
Agronomist
21
Answers
New Rochelle, New York
Updated
Mbah Wai-Tanyi’s Answer
Hi Natalie!
Congratulations on taking college classes in high school! You're already on the right track. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you earn your Bachelor's Degree:
*High School (9th-12th grade)*
1. Continue taking college-level courses (AP, dual enrollment, or early college programs).
2. Maintain a strong GPA (3.5 or higher).
3. Explore potential majors and careers.
4. Research colleges and universities.
5. Prepare for and take the SAT/ACT.
*College Preparation (Junior-Senior year)*
1. Meet with your school counselor to discuss college plans.
2. Complete college applications (Common App, individual college apps).
3. Apply for financial aid (FAFSA) and scholarships.
4. Submit transcripts and letters of recommendation.
5. Review and compare college acceptance letters.
*College (Freshman-Senior year)*
1. Register for classes and create a degree plan.
2. Meet with academic advisors regularly.
3. Maintain a strong GPA (3.0 or higher).
4. Engage in extracurricular activities, internships, and research opportunities.
5. Network with professors, peers, and professionals.
*Additional Tips*
1. Stay organized and focused.
2. Develop time management and study skills.
3. Seek help when needed (tutors, mentors).
4. Build a strong online presence (LinkedIn).
5. Consider study abroad programs or summer internships.
*Indiana-Specific Resources*
1. Indiana Commission for Higher Education (ICHE)
2. Indiana College Success Network
3. Purdue University's Early Start Program
4. Indiana University's Advanced College Project
*Career Development*
1. Explore career options related to your major.
2. Attend career fairs and networking events.
3. Build a professional portfolio.
4. Gain work experience through internships or part-time jobs.
5. Develop transferable skills (communication, teamwork, problem-solving).
*Record-Enhancing Activities*
1. Volunteer work
2. Leadership roles in extracurricular activities
3. Research projects or publications
4. Academic competitions or awards
5. Study abroad programs
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to earning your Bachelor's Degree and setting yourself up for success in your chosen career.
Keep up the great work, Natalie!
Additional resources:
- College Board: (link unavailable)
- NCAA Eligibility Center:
- Fastweb:
(scholarship search)
- College Navigator:
Congratulations on taking college classes in high school! You're already on the right track. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you earn your Bachelor's Degree:
*High School (9th-12th grade)*
1. Continue taking college-level courses (AP, dual enrollment, or early college programs).
2. Maintain a strong GPA (3.5 or higher).
3. Explore potential majors and careers.
4. Research colleges and universities.
5. Prepare for and take the SAT/ACT.
*College Preparation (Junior-Senior year)*
1. Meet with your school counselor to discuss college plans.
2. Complete college applications (Common App, individual college apps).
3. Apply for financial aid (FAFSA) and scholarships.
4. Submit transcripts and letters of recommendation.
5. Review and compare college acceptance letters.
*College (Freshman-Senior year)*
1. Register for classes and create a degree plan.
2. Meet with academic advisors regularly.
3. Maintain a strong GPA (3.0 or higher).
4. Engage in extracurricular activities, internships, and research opportunities.
5. Network with professors, peers, and professionals.
*Additional Tips*
1. Stay organized and focused.
2. Develop time management and study skills.
3. Seek help when needed (tutors, mentors).
4. Build a strong online presence (LinkedIn).
5. Consider study abroad programs or summer internships.
*Indiana-Specific Resources*
1. Indiana Commission for Higher Education (ICHE)
2. Indiana College Success Network
3. Purdue University's Early Start Program
4. Indiana University's Advanced College Project
*Career Development*
1. Explore career options related to your major.
2. Attend career fairs and networking events.
3. Build a professional portfolio.
4. Gain work experience through internships or part-time jobs.
5. Develop transferable skills (communication, teamwork, problem-solving).
*Record-Enhancing Activities*
1. Volunteer work
2. Leadership roles in extracurricular activities
3. Research projects or publications
4. Academic competitions or awards
5. Study abroad programs
By following these steps, you'll be well on your way to earning your Bachelor's Degree and setting yourself up for success in your chosen career.
Keep up the great work, Natalie!
Additional resources:
- College Board: (link unavailable)
- NCAA Eligibility Center:
- Fastweb:
(scholarship search)
- College Navigator:
Joanne Williams
Associate Professor
24
Answers
Olivet, Michigan
Updated
Joanne’s Answer
This is a wonderful goal. There are many paths to choose from. Dual enrollment, online courses, summer courses, etc.
One of my advisees came in with 24 credits toward his degree.
Community College is a great place to start with general courses and to get into the hang of college rigor.
Gather mentors, advisors and friends on the same path.
I wish I knew what you are interested in as a future path - it would also make a difference in advice for your plans.
Keep up the grades, learn to study, read and think deeply.
Also, take some time to breathe in fresh air, take up a hobby. Enjoy your life, don't wish it forward.
All the best.
One of my advisees came in with 24 credits toward his degree.
Community College is a great place to start with general courses and to get into the hang of college rigor.
Gather mentors, advisors and friends on the same path.
I wish I knew what you are interested in as a future path - it would also make a difference in advice for your plans.
Keep up the grades, learn to study, read and think deeply.
Also, take some time to breathe in fresh air, take up a hobby. Enjoy your life, don't wish it forward.
All the best.
Robert Fernandez
Business Owner / CEO - Web Consulting Firm
5
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Robert’s Answer
Hello,
That's great that you're trying to earn your Bachelor's Degree, especially since you're only in 9th grade. There are now a plethora of colleges that offer online classes, allowing you to complete college courses (with college credit) at your own convenience. Some of the colleges may be outside of your budget, but there are a lot of online colleges that offer courses at a reasonable rate.
And as you mentioned, most High School's offer courses that provide college credit (Honors and AP courses). This is a great way to earn college credit while still being around people your age group. Just make sure that the university you plan on attending accepts these courses for college credit. On that note, I would recommend you try to complete general education courses in High School so you have the flexibility to adjust your major once you've entered college. Hope that helps!
That's great that you're trying to earn your Bachelor's Degree, especially since you're only in 9th grade. There are now a plethora of colleges that offer online classes, allowing you to complete college courses (with college credit) at your own convenience. Some of the colleges may be outside of your budget, but there are a lot of online colleges that offer courses at a reasonable rate.
And as you mentioned, most High School's offer courses that provide college credit (Honors and AP courses). This is a great way to earn college credit while still being around people your age group. Just make sure that the university you plan on attending accepts these courses for college credit. On that note, I would recommend you try to complete general education courses in High School so you have the flexibility to adjust your major once you've entered college. Hope that helps!
Kenyatta Snipes
Cinematographer
1
Answer
Riverdale, Georgia
Updated
Kenyatta’s Answer
I love that you are ambitious and being a freshman you're also looking towards your future. Don't put too much pressure on yourself because you have to be sure that the career path you choose is one you'll put all of you're energy into. The same way you are inquiring about a bachelor's degree put that into your career path. You have three more years so keep your head in the books and focused on making it out f high school.
Rebecca Rubino
Pricing Program Manager
6
Answers
Rochester, New York
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Hi Natalie - Congratulations on your achievements thus far! Stay connected with your high school guidance counselor who can help direct you through your high school years and advise you based on your future career aspirations. Taking college courses through your high school is a great plan because it does look great on your resume but also will save you a lot of money if you go on to study at a university in the future. Work with your counselor to ensure you are taking the right college coursework that will transfer to a university and count toward helping fulfill general electives that universities typically require one to take to complete a four-year degree program. This should help you to graduate early and/or allow you to lighten your load to focus on specific degree requirements depending on the type of degree you will be obtaining.
Try to keep a balance of social and study in high school. Also take advantage of any career shadowing opportunities to help you determine the right career path for you. The years go fast so enjoy them.
Best of luck to you!
Try to keep a balance of social and study in high school. Also take advantage of any career shadowing opportunities to help you determine the right career path for you. The years go fast so enjoy them.
Best of luck to you!
Kevin P Hust, MBA
Risk Administration and Army Officer
62
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Kevin P’s Answer
Natalie, from experience I’ve learned caring is the first step into the right direction. That is paramount in achieving what you want in life. For college, it’s no different. And you’re clearly asking the right questions.
You have to understand what your school offers and then take advantage of everyone of those programs. Yes it will be hard. Yes you’ll work harder than some of your friends. But you’ll accomplish things they cannot.
Most schools have a few AP classes. Advanced placement. And like it sounds, you’re placed in a class that is advanced for the age and grade. At the end of them you take test to earn college credit. Taking the class does not guarantee college credit. You have to pass the test.
Another thing, some high school specialize in something. Either math, science, or some fun electives, television production, or something like that. These might be called something else maybe magnet or college prep or something unique. Here you don’t have to take a test. You just have to navigate the class itself.
I did both. But I started in the school provided career counselors office asking these questions. They guided me into what my school specifically had to offer.
Oh and don’t forget about summer school. I always did that too. Helps a lot.
Good luck and good studying!
You have to understand what your school offers and then take advantage of everyone of those programs. Yes it will be hard. Yes you’ll work harder than some of your friends. But you’ll accomplish things they cannot.
Most schools have a few AP classes. Advanced placement. And like it sounds, you’re placed in a class that is advanced for the age and grade. At the end of them you take test to earn college credit. Taking the class does not guarantee college credit. You have to pass the test.
Another thing, some high school specialize in something. Either math, science, or some fun electives, television production, or something like that. These might be called something else maybe magnet or college prep or something unique. Here you don’t have to take a test. You just have to navigate the class itself.
I did both. But I started in the school provided career counselors office asking these questions. They guided me into what my school specifically had to offer.
Oh and don’t forget about summer school. I always did that too. Helps a lot.
Good luck and good studying!