Middle Schoolers - Get Ready

4 STEPS TO COLLEGE
MIDDLE SCHOOL
FRESHMAN
SOPHOMORES
JUNIORS
SENIORS
MENTORS
MENTORES EN ESPANOL
PSAs

There's an old Chinese saying that goes, "The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step." But no matter how unsure you feel taking that first step, every single one after that will be a little easier. It also helps if you have a road map to follow through your years in middle school - and here it is. For more online resources on college prep, check out Links2GO.

For details on each step, click on the notes below:

What Do You Want To Do DO YOUR BEST IN CLASS START SAVING TALK TO YOUR GUIDANCE COUNSELOR OTHER TOP TIPS

Figure out what you want to do.

Start thinking about your future and career possibilities.
Explore different occupations that match your interests.
Keep your options open.
Use time outside of school wisely.
Get help when it's needed.

What Do You Want To Do DO YOUR BEST IN CLASS START SAVING TALK TO YOUR GUIDANCE COUNSELOR OTHER TOP TIPS

Do your best in class.

Take control learn to be a good student.
Get off to a good start! Study hard, turn in all assignments, and do your best to earn good grades.
Review your academic strengths and weaknesses. Talk with friends and family about careers and possible college choices.
Sign up for pre-algebra, if at all possible.
Get to know your teachers.
Take the right courses.
Read, read, read!

What Do You Want To Do DO YOUR BEST IN CLASS START SAVING TALK TO YOUR GUIDANCE COUNSELOR OTHER TOP TIPS

Start saving.

Start learning about different financial aid programs from your school counselor or teachers.
Visit colleges and talk with college students, and your friends.
Save money now to pay for school, and keep saving, a little at a time makes a difference.
Talk to your parents about educational loyalty and affinity programs.
Attend, with your parent or guardian, any financial planning or "how to afford college" programs offered at your school or in the community.
Research on the web, check out our Resources section for some helpful links.

What Do You Want To Do DO YOUR BEST IN CLASS START SAVING TALK TO YOUR GUIDANCE COUNSELOR OTHER TOP TIPS

Talk to your school counselor about:

Going to a college or university.
College-track courses to start taking in middle school.
The importance colleges and universities place on grades, and at what year will your school grades start to matter in the admissions process.
College preparatory, AP, and other honors-level courses you should be taking in high school (9th through 12th grade).
Academic enrichment programs (including summer and weekend programs) available through your school or local colleges.
Pursuing extracurricular activities (such as sports, performing arts, volunteer work, or other activities that interest you).

What Do You Want To Do DO YOUR BEST IN CLASS START SAVING TALK TO YOUR GUIDANCE COUNSELOR OTHER TOP TIPS

Other top tips:

Apply for a Social Security Number if you do not already have one.
Take advantage of every opportunity to participate in enrichment activities.
Visit a local college campus.