Freshmen

FRESHMAN

Here are some helpful tips for high school freshman to help prepare for college.

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DECIDE TO ATTEND COLLEGE

Tell your family and friends that you plan to go, and ask for advice on how to get there.

Making the decision to attend college can take some time. Many students believe they don’t have to start their college search process until late junior or early senior year, but that’s simply not the case. If you start as a freshman, you’ll have more time to do your research, write your essays, fill out applications and come up with a college-ready high school class schedule.

DISCUSS COLLEGE BUDGET

Once you have decided on the college path, it is important to start discussing costs with your family early. There are many resources available, and the earlier you explore them, the more opportunities you will have. Starting your education at a community college can set you up for financial success by saving you thousands of dollars on a degree or credits you can transfer.

PAYING FOR COLLEGE

Paying for your education is a real concern today, but there are many resources available to students who wish to attend college. Take some time and get familiar with websites like the Federal Student Aid site where you can find resources about loans, grants and scholarships.

Additionally, you can explore your perspective college to see what kind of additional scholarships and aid are available.

Office of Financial Aid

AP Courses

Consider taking Advanced Placement (AP) courses. Many colleges award college credit to students who successfully complete an AP course and receive a certain score on the AP test.

CHALLENGE YOURSELF WITH DUAL CREDIT

Did you know you can earn college credit while you’re still in high school? Ask your counselor about dual credit classes offered at your school. You’ll take these at your high school, but since they’re taught at a collegiate level, many colleges will give you credit for them. That means you’ll earn college credit at little or no cost.

Dual Credit and Dual Enrollment

Learn how you can earn college credit while still in high school.

SET YOURSELF UP FOR SUCCESS

If you plan on going for a 4-year degree there are steps you can take now that will ensure an easier transition after graduation. There are many college requirements that you can satisfy during high school. Have discussions with your counselor and find the right educational goals early.

4 years of math
Most college-bound students should plan on taking four years of math. In addition, make sure you’ve included upper-level science in your schedule. These will prepare you for the ACT and SAT tests that play an important role in college acceptance.

2 years of a foreign language
Complete at least two years of a foreign language during high school. This will meet many college requirements and help ensure you’re ready for college-level coursework.