Stepping stones in gearing up for college

1. Starting from Middle

Taking higher level courses in Math and English and 2 years of a foreign language class in Middle school really helps in high school.

2. High School Courses - Honors and AP

The trend of the courses taken from 9th to 12th should be progressively more challenging to the students. The student does not have to load up in APs. It is more important to have a strong GPA than 5 APs with 'C' average.

3. Extra Curricular Activities

Student must show patrticipation in team work type activities or stay within a particular activity for at least 5-6 years with distinct improvement in that area of talent.

4. Community Service

This is VERY IMPORTANT!! Should start from middle school summer.

5. SAT I, SAT II, ACT, AP and other exams

Preparation should start fom middle school. SAT II tests chosen should be the subjects the child is very good at, or particular to the careere choosen and recommended by his or her teacher.

6. College Counseling Services

Many high schools are college Prep and provided services to the students. You can also hire professionals. but that is expensive.

7. Great books on College Guide

The FISKE guide to COlleges - 2005 edition and the Insider's guide to the colleges 2005.

8. When to visit colleges?

You can start the summer after 10th grade but 11th grade spring is the best time. Recommeneded time is when college is in session.