Jumpstart Your College Planning
You’ve got big plans – getting to high school graduation, choosing the right college and landing the perfect job. Applying for college may seem a million years away, but it’s never too early to start thinking about what it takes to become a standout applicant worthy of scholarship dollars. ↖ This heading is for screen readers and wont be visible on the page.
Take Solid Classes
The classes you take in high school will impact your college readiness.
"It's best to make sure that you are taking the appropriate college prep classes," explained Sara Bofferding, Director of Admissions for Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University. "For an institution like Embry‑Riddle, math and science prep are important, especially for students looking to pursue engineering. Honors courses can boost GPA and Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate coursework can potentially earn advanced standing credit but they are not required."
Not only do you gain knowledge about the subject you’re studying. You’re also building a foundation for learning how to study, prepare for tests, write papers and complete projects. Develop these good habits now. Life will be much easier once you get to college.
Make the Grades
Colleges and universities use your grade point average (GPA) as a key indicator in evaluating your academic performance and predicting future success, but that’s not the only factor.
"Our incoming students have an average of a 3.82 GPA, but we also consider coursework completed in high school, extracurricular activities and selected major when reviewing applicants for admission," Bofferding said.
While one less-than-stellar grade won’t ruin your chances of getting into college, it is difficult to raise your GPA once it has dropped. Keep an eye on your GPA and always work to raise it. Many schools use GPA to award scholarships, so the better your GPA, the better your chances are of receiving a generous scholarship award.
Get Active
Many high school extracurricular activities, like sports or clubs, are similar to what you’ll find in college. Some clubs even offer opportunities for college scholarship for those who do well in competitions – like First Robotics. Taking advantage of these activities now will help you discover passions, interests and talents you can further explore after graduation. You’ll build confidence, develop life skills and even have some fun along the way.
"Extracurricular activities demonstrate a well-rounded student," said Bofferding. "Involvement in clubs, sports and activities shows interest in specific or various topics. Plus, the more involved you are, the richer your experience will be."
The key to success is balance. Make sure your grades don’t slip because you’re too busy with clubs and sports. Remember your priorities!
Find Yourself
Now is a great time to start investigating your different interests. Learn how your strengths play into those interests, research related careers and look into associated clubs and organizations. Talk to people in your community who have jobs that you’re curious about and learn about their career path. Seek out personal recommendations for schools, attend college fairs or search the internet for colleges and universities with degrees that line up with your interests. Some colleges even offer introductory online courses at no charge to engage students, like Aircraft Accident Investigation.
Maximize Resources
Most high schools have a college or career center. Take a few minutes to drop by. You may be surprised by just how much help you can find on your own school campus.
"It’s a great resource for college information, test prep, scholarship information and career ideas," Bofferding shared. "Plus there are multiple articles, blogs and resources available online that can assist you in preparing for college."
When you identify schools that seem to be a good match, pick up the phone and call. Colleges are eager to share what they offer with prospective students.
Learn more about an Embry‑Riddle education and some amazing career paths at erau.edu.