What is the best way for a high school student to prepare for college admissions?

Answer 1

Hello! Here are 5 simple keys I think are important as a student prepares to make the college transition.

5 things to know about Admissions 

1. Be aware of ALL deadlines (admissions app, test dates, etc.)
2. Be aware of all application requirements 
3. Don’t choose a college/university solely based on popularity or legacy, choose based on program, opportunity, & your circumstances
4. Take pride in Test Scores & GPA
5. Write an Insightful & Complete Essay. Show Personality & Identify The WHY!
6. BONUS KEY: Start building your 1 page resume listing your academic accomplishments, extra curricular activity involvement, leadership positions, or work/volunteer experience)

I hope this helps. Let me know if i can add any additional value!

Answer 2

First, fulfill your baseline duties, which are doing as well as you can in the subjects you are required to study in school.  This may involve some extra tutoring or help from teachers.  But it doesn’t mean you have to spend all your time preparing equally for all your subjects.  You will have natural strengths and weaknesses.  The important thing is to do as well as you can even in the classes that you are weakest at, but don’t devote too much time to those weak links. That will sap energy from what you should be doing.

             

And what should you be doing?  Finding what your talents are and developing them.  If getting into an elite university is your goal, know that there are many, many people who have good grades and test scores.  Standing out from the pack is really about developing your talent or talents early on.

This is good news for you, because rather than another tiring task, like preparing for exams, this should be enjoyable.  I’ve seen parents that spend a lot of money for students to take many extracurricular classes in as many subjects as possible.  Rather than do this, spend your money developing a talent you enjoy. Go away for the summer.  It was only by going to specialized camps, like writing camp or tennis camp, that I learned what I loved.  When you are good at something, which you have spent time developing, that is what will get you into a good college.