Is 8th grade too young to be thinking about college?

Question

I have been considering college since I was about 9 or 10(I'm 14 now) and I really have my heart set on attending for criminal justice.

But I told some of my friends about it and asked what they thought about their own educations, and most of them said they haven't even thought about what major- so I am wondering whether I might need to stop thinking that far ahead and concentrate on the time being. I get pretty good grades for the most part, and my teachers don't let me forget it. That's really what motivated me.

I have been browsing university websites (and Yahoo Education) too see what school would be best. My aunt recommended Maryland State, her daughter went there too. I have really considered it, but have been looking at others. Like NC State, I have some relatives in NC and it would be nice to get warmer temps too. But, I am an out-of-stater (Pennslyvania), so I don't think the tuition would be worth it.

What do you think?

Answer 1

Congratulations for been so responsible about your future that early in your live! When we make plans and work hard to get our dreams our live can be easier. Remember that everything will not be always pink (great) in life, but you will have more tools to deal with the life problems than others.

Criminal Justice is a very interesting subject and you learn a lot about the social problems that we are facing. Many of them have roots in the poverty, abuse of substances, ignorance and others. The reality is that most young people are not preoccupied about College because their parents make their life very easy and they think that everything always will be like that. The true is that our parents will not be always to solve our problems and it will be a moment in our lives (when they get old)that we will have to help them to deal with their life.

It is good that you have good grades, that will help you when you have to choose a university. I suggest that make a list about what you really want about a University. Do you want to be near to your family or that is not an issue? What are the financial opportunities that you have and what opportunities the University offer. Study the different curriculums, some University have the same program but different courses. You will maybe like some courses more than others.

I will not tell you good luck because this about effort. But enjoy your journey and when time come difficult think that 4 or 5 years of effort will give you a big change in you live.

Answer 2

It's a great time to start thinking about college. You can begin to start saving money, working hard on your grades, and trying to be an all-around citizen by doing some community service whenever you can. And, if you have a community college in your area, check with your guidance counselor at school and see if they have a "dual enrollment" plan where you can take some college courses and get ahead in your major.

Is NC State where you want to go to school? Have you even been to a college campus just to get a "feel" for what goes on? I advise that you visit the campus of NC State if the opportunity presents itself - or yet visit the campus of a Pennsylvania college/university and see for yourself what campus life is all about. Then decide if the tuition is worth it - not now. Life only happens once - don't stand on the sidelines watching while you can be part of the parade.

Answer 3

You DO have a while before attending College. But, it's never to early to get your goals set and plan for your future. It's extremely promising that you have had your mind set on a career for some time now.

Especially because most College students still dont know what they are going to major in.
I do not know where you live so I would not be able to find out if the high school you are going to attend has this program..

But in Miami, FL where I live my high school offered a program (which you have to sign up for as a freshmen) called the 18 credit graduation. Once you are in 9th grade and are registered in this program your counselors arrange your schedule so that you take only the necessary classes and courses so you are able to graduate as a Junior instead of a Senior.

The downfall about graduating early is that you wont participate in Prom, Senior Brunch or any other type of those 12th grade activities.

I wish I could have done this when I was in high school but when I was in 9th grade did not realize that this was what I wanted to do.

This would be perfect for you to look into. If your future high school does not offer this program. Keep yourself focused.

It seems as though you know precisely what you want to do and that is very good for someone your age.

Best of luck to you! ♥

Answer 4

Not at all, especially since you are going into high school next year. By knowing what you want to do when you grow up will enable you to choose the classes in high school that will get you into the universities and programs that you want. You can determine ahead of time if your specific program needs a certain math or science class. During your underclassmen years (9th and 10th grades) you can get the prepartory classes for those last two high school years. Don't let it take over your life, you do have a few years to change your mind however a solid foundation will help you in the long run. Good Luck.

Answer 5

8th grade is not too young to be thinking about college. Something you might want to do is find out if your local high school is having a "college night" or "college fair". They usually have them during the fall semester. They are primarily for seniors, however, the information that you can get there is very valuable. Most college fairs also have a financial aid fair, where they go over filling out your financial aid applications.
Once you get into high school, i also suggest signing up for as many programs at universities throughout the state. Most universities have summer programs where you can stay on campus and get a feel for the university. Most summer programs are free of charge as well. I hope this information helps you out.

Answer 6

The state school where you live will be more economical than an out-of-state student price - one factor to consider

along with - what degree and - future profession

look to your schooling now - to select College Prep classes - that sometimes give a higher GPA - and study hard - but play also - don't miss being a teen - BALANCE!

and if you get a good enough grade - may even get a scholarship!

best of luck!

Answer 7

Oh, gosh no and Yay to you for realizing that you do have a future and it does need some consideration.

You also might look into early college programs that you can start while still in high school. Some community colleges have such programs, and it's a good way to get some prereq out of the way.

Good luck.

Answer 8

Its always good to be ahead of the game. I wish I would have though about that more when I was your age. Don't stress out over it but take a look at what else you might like. I was a biology major going into college and I am set to graduate with a psychology degree this semester.

Answer 9

college. Something you might want to do is find out if your local high school is having a "college night" or "college fair". They usually have them during the fall semester. They are primarily for seniors, however, the information that you can get there is very valuable. Most college fairs also have a financial aid fair, where they go over filling out your financial aid applications.
Once you get into high school, i also suggest signing up for as many programs at universities throughout the state. Most universities have summer programs where you can stay on campus

Answer 10

Never to early to think about College! My son is 10, and we talk about them. As, your study and learning habits start when you are young. My son is interested on joining the Naval Academy in Maryland. We are from NJ, and since they love kids that started Cub Scouts then Boy Scouts and go to the highest rank, Eagle Scout. As to go to the Naval Academy you need someone in Government, to write a letter to get you in to that Military Academy. So, my son is excited, but if he changes his mind, at least Colleges also look at your Extra Activities, and your grades, not til High School, but you better have great SAT scores and of course, try to be all A's and B's!

I wished my parents knew what to do for college, but they never attended, as they worked hard in the blue collar world. I have been through College, in NJ, and my son is aware that Education is important, all through your life. He doesn't like school. that much, but he knows he has to do his best, every day!

So, do what you want. Check out ALL SCHOOLS, as you might get a Scholarship, and it is never too young to start thinking about any college or schooling, after High School. Just shows that you know what you need and what you want, before your are a Junior!

Hang in there and lots of luck!