Families who have set goals for their children to pursue college can prepare ahead. In fact, there are ways to get ready for higher education years in advance. At the beginning of the high school years is a good place to start for homeschool students and those in traditional schools. These years are typically when lesson plans become a bit more complex.
Increasing the amount of subject matter covered, as well as, challenges associated with specific subjects is helpful. There are many different things to consider when it comes to getting this early start. Students need to prepare academically, financially and emotionally for college. Families need to work together to ensure that this preparation process is successful. Let’s take a look at the Top 5 Ways to Get an Early Start on College.
1 – Improve Reading Comprehension
Reading comprehension skills are paramount when it comes to high school educational pursuits. Those that are designed to enhance college academics are important. Students need to be able to clearly comprehend information. This applies to not only entrance testing for college, but coursework as well. It is important to understand reading in subjects like Math, History, Science and Literature.
2 – Research Majors Offered
During the high school years, many students already know what majors they are interested in pursuing. Not all colleges, however, offer the same areas of study. Researching local and out-of-town colleges and universities is necessary. This allows students to learn what opportunities are available to them. In some cases, changing majors may be involved. Major fields of study will require specific types of coursework.
3 – Apply for Scholarships
Everyone knows that college tuition is rising every year. This is why scholarships are important to students. Homeschool students have the opportunity to apply for just as many scholarships as students in public school. It is a good idea to learn which scholarships are available and their application schedules.
4 – Utilize Sample Testing
Sample tests for SAT preparation are extremely helpful to high school students getting ready for college. There are online testing samples for college coursework, as well. These tests give students an idea of the requirements for certain courses. Practicing early is a good way to prepare. Increasing experience in this is beneficial to students who do not like testing.
5 – Visit Diverse Colleges
Once you have a list of colleges to consider, scheduling visits is wise. This allows students to tour campuses and dorms. They will get a good idea of what campus life is going to be like. Also, this is a time to learn about individual departments, coursework and potential opportunities. Students should also want to find out some specifics about the city or town these colleges are located in.
There are always little surprises when it comes to the college experience. These are terrific building blocks for students to learn from. Getting an early start to the preparation process actually allows students of all backgrounds, to transition sooner. This is an effective way to begin college academics.
For 15 years Mimi Rothschild has been privileged to help hundreds of thousands of homeschoolers educate their children at home. The MorningStar Academy is a private online Christian school offering diplomas and teachers. The Jubilee Academy is an online Christian curriculum provider offering over 150 full year online Christian courses for PreK-12.