Education Starts in High School
Higher education remains the most reliable way to increase job options and future income over a lifetime.
Graduate degrees can bring in over a (million more dollars in lifelong earnings) than a high school diploma. The power to further your education all your life begins in high school, especially if you build a strong academic course load and high test scores for college admissions.
1. Work with your guidance counselor
Many students have parents who achieved higher education and can guide the process for their children. Some students will be first-generation college students who use library, school, and community resources to understand the process. However, higher education changes so rapidly and application processes are daunting for everyone.
The high school Guidance Counselor is a professional who stays abreast of the latest trends and requirements in higher education to help students prepare for it. Some Guidance Counselors work with students at one grade level and others follow a set of students throughout their whole high school careers. Make sure your guidance counselor knows you and understands your college aspirations as soon as possible.
2. Build a college-bound transcript
No matter what you plan to major in or dream to do for a living, a solid educational foundation has a common core of subjects to master. It is not enough to reach basic skills levels. Enroll in honors, Advanced Placement, and college prep courses.
- Math. Begin with Algebra and Geometry to work up to Pre-calculus and Calculus
- Science. Biology, Anatomy, and Physiology set the stage for Chemistry and Physics later
- Social Sciences. Geography and American History prepare you for World History and Economics
- Language Arts. Honors English courses grow your vocabulary while you build skills in Essay Writing, Research, Literature and Reading Comprehension.
3. Achieve high ACT and SAT scores
College entrance exams do more than decide if top colleges will admit you. They are measuring sticks for your academic background and capabilities which graduate schools or future employers might want to see. They test science material and math capabilities you could wind up using later in science, business and computer jobs.
If you have worked to build a college-bound transcript, you are halfway to a good score. ACT or (SAT prep tutoring) will up your chances for a score in the upper percentiles elite colleges prefer. A tutoring center uses professional strategies for success.
- Diagnostic of your strengths and weaknesses. See where you will score high and where you must improve
- Repeat timed tests. Learn how long you will work on each section and how to work faster for time to review
- Positive reinforcement and moral support. Feel part of a team with professionals to measure your progress and motivate you to succeed.
4. Research colleges’ strengths and weaknesses
The right college for you will carry you further than a degree. It should be a launchpad to several future options. Only apply to colleges where four years will prepare you best for graduate and professional school admissions or the job of your dreams.
Most community colleges, online universities, and job certification programs provide specific training. Four-year colleges and universities may widen your options to build a few specialties, for more job qualifications with their degree. Liberal arts degrees still pay off, particularly for graduates who build careers over the long haul.
Choose your college wisely. It can be inconvenient, time-consuming and costly to transfer to a better fit. Your parents, guidance counselor, and teacher can help you weigh choices.
Education is an investment to reap benefits from for the rest of your life. Planning and preparing in high school and college determine the type and number of options your future holds. Then you can further your education and career as you must when you want.
