College-bound students have a lot to consider as they prepare for this exciting new chapter in their life. You not only have to focus on grades, course selection, and building solid study habits, but you also have to make financial decisions and master practical life skills. Here are some key terms, tips, and tools for students to keep in mind during the transition period from high school to college.
Academics – Prioritize your studies and develop a solid understanding of your chosen field. Stay on top of your coursework and standardized tests. Good grades and test scores can open doors to scholarships and better college choices.
Admissions – Some colleges evaluate applications as they are received and release rolling admission decisions on a regular basis. Some colleges have a set deadline to apply for a certain semester, and if you miss the deadline you’ll have to wait for the next application period. Some other colleges accept early applicants with either a binding or non-binding commitment.
Application Essay – Write a compelling personal essay that highlights your unique experiences and perspectives as a homeschooler. Tailor your essay to fit with the college’s mission so that admissions officers can envision the positive impact you will have on their campus and the world beyond graduation.
Campus Resources – Familiarize yourself with campus resources like libraries, tutoring centers, career services, and other facilities. These can be invaluable throughout your college journey.
Common Application – The Common App is a college application management tool that is accepted by more than 800 colleges and universities. It enables you to fill out one application form and make it available to multiple schools electronically, while helping you track deadlines and requirements.
Demonstrated Interest – Many prospective students may not realize that some of the more competitive colleges document your school-search activity, such as tracking how often you open their emails, if you attended any campus events, or how often you visit their website. It helps them eliminate, or waitlist, applicants they feel aren’t as driven to attend that particular school.
Financial Planning – Understand the costs of college, including living expenses, and create a budget. Learn about tuition, financial aid, scholarships, student loans, and expected family contribution (an estimate of how much the student and/or parents are able to afford to pay for college).
Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) – Filing the online FAFSA application is required for a student to be eligible for federal loans, Pell grants, or work-study, as well as to qualify for state and institutional scholarships. It’s used by many colleges and universities in making financial aid decisions.
Health and Wellness – Take care of your physical and mental health. Know the resources available on campus like health centers, recreational facilities, and counseling services.
Life Skills – Don’t forget to learn basic life skills like cooking, laundry, and money management. These will help you live independently and responsibly.
Networking – Build relationships with classmates, professors, and industry professionals. Networking can lead to internships, job opportunities, and lifelong connections.
Prerequisite – In college, a prerequisite refers to specific courses or subjects that you must complete (and obtain a passing grade in) before you can enroll in higher-level or other related courses.
Selectivity – College selectivity is often measured by the school’s acceptance rate. Acceptance rates are measured as the number of accepted candidates divided by the number of total applicants. The most selective (i.e. competitive) schools enroll fewer than half of their applicants.
Testing – The SAT and the ACT are the two most common standardized tests for college admissions in the U.S. The SAT is scored on a scale of 400-1600 and it consists of four sections: math with a calculator, math without a calculator, reading, and writing & language. The ACT is scored on a scale of 1-36 and it consists of four sections: English, reading, math, and science.
Time Management – College life is busy. Develop good time management skills to balance classes, studying, extracurricular activities, and social life. Make a study schedule that works for you.
We hope we’ve given you some ideas that will help you get off to a good start and make the most of your college years. Are you ready to embark on this journey?
