It's not too early to begin thinking about college.
Here's how to get your thoughts in order and make the most of your high school career:
Begin Visiting Campuses
Check the websites of colleges you like to schedule an individual visit or join a group tour. At Luther, you can choose the type of visit that fits your needs and schedule. Read more here: www.luther.edu/admissions/visit/.
You may also get a good look at colleges by participating in their summer camps—for sports, music, language, or accelerated learning, for example.
Luther offers opportunities for youth soccer, basketball, wrestling, volleyball, distance running, swimming, and tennis, as well as Dorian Summer Music Camp and Lutheran Summer Music Academy & Festival.
When you attend a camp, you live in the residence halls, eat in the cafeteria, and practice in the college's gyms or concert halls. Talk about first-hand perspective!
Choose Your Classes Carefully
Make sure you're taking classes that help you meet college admission standards. Luther recommends the following high school coursework:
- Four years of English, which may include one year of speech, communication, or journalism
- Three years of mathematics
- Three years of social science
- Two years of natural science, including one year of laboratory science
- Two years of foreign language study (recommended)
If you're planning to take Advanced Placement (AP) classes, you'll want to score a 4 or better on the exams to earn credit at Luther. Also, if you're part of an International Baccalaureate (IB) program, elect the Higher Level coursework—Luther awards credit for exam scores of 4 or better at this level.
Establish Your Criteria for Choosing a College
What do you want in a college? What kind of academic programs sound interesting? How far from home do you want to go? Do you want to participate in athletics, music, or other student organizations? Big school or small school? Residential campus or commuter-style? Metro or rural?
As you discover colleges that pique your interest, start a simple file system to keep track of their brochures and other info you collect about them.
And don't feel bad if your interests change. Remember: you have two whole years to fine-tune your college search!
Keep Track of Your Accomplishments
It might seem nerdy to write down every little award you receive, from Boy or Girl Scout badges to spelling bee championships, but you'll be glad you did it when you need to compile all the stuff you're good at on a college application.
Be sure to include any volunteer service projects and accolades that demonstrate the range of your talent.
Make Your Summers Count
Yes, it's nice to kick back once school is out, but it's also cool to say you polished off a great reading list proposed by your favorite teachers or shadowed a local professional who does your dream job.
If you enjoy volunteering or working with kids, look for some work with the local park and recreation department, or take a turn doing some chores for a shut-in member of your community. The possibilities are endless!