Father’s Day is history, so now summer is here at last. You’ve cleaned out your locker, you’ve said goodbye to a pal who’s heading to sports camps all summer, and the only thing you have to do when the alarm clock rings is shut it off and go back to sleep.
In the eyes of any high school student, this is the time to check out the barbecue, the time to check out the summer concert series, the time to check out the sweet ride Jamie got as a graduation present-but it is definitely not the time to think about how to get into a college.
I agree.
“But dog” says you, “my mom saw this column called ‘Here’s How to Get Into a College’ and she wants me to read it-she said it had something to do with growing up. She’s quizzing me after I read it, and if all I know is that you want me to chill this summer, she’ll make me doing something way worse, like get a job.”
Dog, I hear you, so I’ll help you out, but I’ll make this quick-it’s almost time to flip the burgers. Here’s how to get into a college in three easy steps:
Take challenging classes in high school. For a lot of students, high school is a waiting game; wait for the bell, wait for the weekend, wait for summer. Put in your time, and in four years, the game is over.
Don’t get me wrong-I don’t want you pulling your hair out because you’ve got six classes that would make Einstein weep. Find classes that will make you think, and require you to have study habits that are more than just glancing at the books before class starts, or writing a paper on the bus the morning it’s due. Get the right balance between challenge and success, and you will do more that get into college-you’ll get out of college with a degree, a ton of knowledge, and a future.
Challenge yourself outside of school. Colleges call them extra-curricular activities, but these groups, experiences, and organizations are more than a way to get into college-they’re a way to have fun and learn more about you. This is a way to make sure you see your friends at the end of the day, and it’s a way to make new friends by trying something new. And if all you can think about is sports teams or school-based events, remember there are groups meeting at the art gallery, the local teen center, or even in your own house, if you want to start a group up on your own.
Do some good in your ‘hood. Community service is probably the least understood part of college preparation. There’s a part of your town that needs some sprucing up, and no government grant or work project is going to get to it.
Start now. Look around for a local area in need (your place of worship, city hall, the library) and give of your time-you’ll be surprised how much this experience gives back to you in growth and pride.
No matter what grade you’re heading for in the fall, these three tips can help you make the most out of high school and get you college ready. Think about them every time you bite into a grilled veggie burger this summer, and remember-it’s not just knowing how to get into a college, it’s knowing how to get into a college where you will find support, challenge, and fun.
So report back to dad, and head out to play!
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