How to Get into College: Tips for High School Students

When you're a high school kid, still a couple years away from graduating the last thing on your mind is how to get into college. But even if you're a freshman it's important to start thinking about it now. With the rising costs of education, you don't only have to think about getting into college, but how you're going to pay for it-which means you should also be focusing on scholarships. I've been on the college application rollercoaster, and it can be tricky. But with these tips, you'll have a leg up, and get into college with no problem.

1. Study, then study some more. This may seem like a no-brainer, but many students seem to overlook it and assume they will get into college despite lackluster grades. Whereas it is true that many universities and colleges may only have a minimum GPA of 2.0 or so, getting good scholarships will require you to get good grades. So if you're blowing off homework to have fun with your friends, you may want to rethink your behavior a bit. Putting school work first is essential to get into college.

2. Join extracurricular activities. Spanish club, sports, choir, or art club-whatever strikes your fancy, get involved. Showing a variety of interests and initiative will help you get into college. Better get, hold a leadership position in one of these clubs or groups. If there is nothing available at your school, start an organization. It will take some work and headache, but in the end you will look like a highly motivated student. Universities will admire this, and ultimately it will help you get into college.

3. Connect with your teachers. Perhaps you don't care much for all of your teachers or instructors. If there are a couple that you do happen to like, however, try to foster a close relationship with them. I'm not telling you to be a teacher's pet, but letters of recommendation will be essential when to attempt to get into college. Make sure you demonstrate your competency in class by doing well on homework and exams. Ask questions when you don't understand anything or need help on a paper. Taking initiative will show these teachers that you are serious about your school work, and when it comes time to get into college, they will relay that message to the universities of your choice.

4. Volunteer. Much like the student organizations, volunteering will help you get into college because it shows you have skills and interests outside of the straight academic realm. Volunteering is especially important when considering scholarships-as there are many out there specifically for community-conscious students. The great thing is that there are no limitations on volunteering. You can do it according to your schedule, and you can volunteer in a variety of different ways. Regardless, showing your concern for your community and those in need will help you get into college, and do some good at the same time.

5. Work on your application essay. There are a variety of websites available specifically for helping you write application essays to get into college. Take advantage of them. Not everyone is at the same writing level, and these essays are absolutely vital if you want to get into college. Start early, and keep revising. Make sure you have all application essays proofread before you send them in. Perhaps utilize those teachers you will ask to write your recommendations. This is another way to help foster that relationship, and ensure that your application essay is top notch.

There is no miracle formula that will allow you to get into college, but these tips should certainly help. Remember that it's never too soon to start thinking about these factors-especially in the state of our present economy, when having a college education is so important. Good luck, and keep studying!