As a high school senior, you are considering what you do once you graduate. Although you can start working right away, another option for you is to go on to a secondary education. Whether you choose a two-year program or attend a four-year university, the experience can prepare you for the career you want. Here are a few steps to follow as you apply for college.
Find Schools That Interest You
Think about the things that interest you and the careers that allow you to utilize your talents. This can range from attending law school to signing up for medical coding online courses. Once you know what you want to do, look for the schools that provide classes for the major that you choose. Research the campuses near you and those far away, especially if you are looking for an adventure. You can set up a time to visit the campus or meet with a counselor to learn more about the institution. Consider making a list of your final choices and noting the strengths and weaknesses of each. Putting a great deal of thought into the process will help you find the right place for you.
Schedule Your Standardized Tests
Most institutions that you are applying to will want the scores of your standardized tests before they welcome you into their student body. The entrance exams, typically the SAT and ACT, are available at the beginning of your junior year but are typically done when you are a senior. You can schedule a time to join a study session to prepare for it or purchase materials to review it on your own at home. Be sure to make an appointment ahead of time and take a form of identification with you so that the proctor can ensure that you are the person on their list of attendees. If you are less than satisfied with your score, you can retake it until you are pleased with your grade. Send the final number to the universities that interest you in order to keep them up to speed with your plans.
Write the Essay For Your Application
There is a great deal of information that you have to enter on the applications that you send to colleges. One of the items that organizations request is an essay that details your intentions while you are in school and your accomplishments during the past four years. While the institutions may ask a different question in this section, you can often modify your original excerpt to work for each of them. Set aside time to quietly contemplate what you want to say then write down your thoughts. Return to it multiple times to review it and make the necessary corrections. You may also wish to have someone else read it and give you their opinion. Once it is completed, keep it in a safe place on your computer so that you can revise it each time you must use it. This is also great to use for the scholarships that you ask for and any graduation paperwork you must turn in.