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What are the things I need to know or should do before going to college? What are some underrated extracurriculars that might be good on a college application?
I'm currently a junior in highschool, and want to major some sort of engineering, finance, or business. I am unsure of which to pursue yet.
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Ali’s Answer
So I am going to answer from the perspective of things I wish I had known before I went to college. I wish more people had talked about how it is ok to change your area of focus or major if you find it is not working out for you. I went into college with a very firm plan of being Pre Law with a focus on Political Science. After two years of that, I knew it wasn't right for me. I spent the next year figuring out what I was interested in and what I could see myself doing long term. Pivoting is ok, and in my opinion, gave me a more appreciation for where I landed.
Also, I wish I knew that my major was just one piece of the career puzzle. There are very few fields that actually require specific coursework in undergrad (doctor, lawyer, engineer etc). Be open, flexible, and curious about how you can take your skills and interests and apply them to a career. I think most of us are doing things that we didn't necessarily think we would be doing based on our majors.
Also, I wish I knew that my major was just one piece of the career puzzle. There are very few fields that actually require specific coursework in undergrad (doctor, lawyer, engineer etc). Be open, flexible, and curious about how you can take your skills and interests and apply them to a career. I think most of us are doing things that we didn't necessarily think we would be doing based on our majors.
Updated
J’s Answer
Good day!
These are excellent questions because there are many ways to prepare for college and beyond. I encourage you to read several posts on Career Village to gather more information.
"What do I need to know or do before going to college?"
Meet with your high school academic advisor or success team. Share your goals with them and ensure you have the necessary high school credits to apply to college.
Discuss your goals with your parents or guardians.
Research in-state and out-of-state schools online to get a feel for the institutions you might want to consider.
If applying for financial aid, be aware of submission deadlines. Your guidance counselor may have this information. If not, here’s a link: FAFSA Information.
Attend Open House events at local colleges and universities. These events provide a preview of the school’s majors, programs, and services. You can find out about Open House dates by calling the Admissions Office. If you miss it, you can request a campus tour.
In terms of extracurricular activities, get involved in activities you enjoy. Volunteer at community organizations or join school clubs. If you engage in activities that are meaningful to you, your enthusiasm will shine through in your application.
I wish you the best!
These are excellent questions because there are many ways to prepare for college and beyond. I encourage you to read several posts on Career Village to gather more information.
"What do I need to know or do before going to college?"
Meet with your high school academic advisor or success team. Share your goals with them and ensure you have the necessary high school credits to apply to college.
Discuss your goals with your parents or guardians.
Research in-state and out-of-state schools online to get a feel for the institutions you might want to consider.
If applying for financial aid, be aware of submission deadlines. Your guidance counselor may have this information. If not, here’s a link: FAFSA Information.
Attend Open House events at local colleges and universities. These events provide a preview of the school’s majors, programs, and services. You can find out about Open House dates by calling the Admissions Office. If you miss it, you can request a campus tour.
In terms of extracurricular activities, get involved in activities you enjoy. Volunteer at community organizations or join school clubs. If you engage in activities that are meaningful to you, your enthusiasm will shine through in your application.
I wish you the best!
Updated
Alaina’s Answer
Hi! This is a great question, and it is amazing that you are thinking about these things already. When applying to colleges, it is good to have some other experiences included in the application (on top of good grades/GPA), like volunteer work and being involved in clubs at your high school.
Visiting the campus can be beneficial before attending, especially if you are considering going out-of-state.
As far as extracurriculars, a lot of colleges look for a background in data analytics/technology since that is becoming such a big thing. For example, learning things like Excel, Alteryx, and other technologies can give you a step-up in the finance/accounting professions.
Visiting the campus can be beneficial before attending, especially if you are considering going out-of-state.
As far as extracurriculars, a lot of colleges look for a background in data analytics/technology since that is becoming such a big thing. For example, learning things like Excel, Alteryx, and other technologies can give you a step-up in the finance/accounting professions.