Wondering about college?

Question

I'm very young and only just beginning high school. However, I'm curious about my future- I wonder what it is I need to do to prepare for applying to college? I'm American and living in Europe, though I plan to go to college in America. Even now I've begun to plan out my choices, UVA weighing in to be a strong option. How should I start preparing now?

Answer 1

UVA's a good school - I know a few people who went there as undergrads and really enjoyed it.

For now, all you really need to do is keep your grades up, maybe do a little prep work for the SATs (I assume you still have to take them even though you're in Europe, but I don't really know). Also get involved in things outside of your classes - sports, clubs, church, whatever you like to do. Colleges want students who are intelligent, well-rounded, and interesting. Fortunately for you, being an American in Europe is interesting!

Answer 2

In general yes you should go to college. Most better jobs require a college degree, and it's hard to advance without it. It also can be a lot of fun. I was in a fraternity and I had an awesome time. There are jobs though that don't require college degrees such as being an auto mechanic. You can go to a trade school if you'd prefer something different than what's offered in college. You're lucky. When I went to college I didn't have money and I often didn't get good grades. But I made it through and wound up with a 3.5 GPA. Now, I have a good job and am working on a master's at night.

Answer 3

Well, the fortunate thing about your position is taht high school education standards in Europe are a lot better than in the US. The problem can also be that you get tracked into a certain career path from earlier on.

The best thing is start seriously thinking about what you would like to study. I kow taht this may be a bit unreasonable, but I know that in England, for instance, if you plan to be a graphic designer you don't have to take as much science in HS as if you were planning to become an engineer.

In order to do well in college in the US in a technical field (UVA has a super engineering school!) you will need to take chemistry, physics, and AT LEAST trigonometry-level math. Precalc or calc would be better. Talk to the school's guidance or equivalent and let them know that you plan to attend college in the US, and that you would like to arrange your future curriculum towards that goal. I'm sure they can come up with something fitting.

I recommend that you find a way to take the PSAT in your 10th grade year. This may qualify you for National Merit scholarships, and at least give you an idea of how you stand when compared to kids in HS in the States. Of course, in your Jr and Sr years you should take the SAT and the ACT. Some schools take one but not the other, so better to take them both.

Hope this helps.

I forgot the most important thing. Grade equivalences don't always line up right. So be sure to ask your school to give an accurate equivalence of grades and credits when preparing a final transcript for submittal with your completed application to the college of your choice.

Answer 4

To get into a good college there are a few things you need to do:

Get good grades in High School.

Take challenging classes in high school (In the US you should take AP classes -- perhaps there is something equivalent in Europe.

The quality of your high school could be a factor.

Outside activities (sports, clubs, etc) have an effect.

SAT scores are also important.

The things that you can control most easily are the grades you get and the classes you take. You will find that if you keep up with the work you won't have to cram before exams. This will actually leave you time to have a normal life.

Good luck.

Answer 5

4 years of English, Math, Science, Social Studies, and a Foreign Language Just take these classes each year and don't worry about it until your junior year.