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Section index
- Getting to College: Topic Index
- Additional Website Resources
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Getting to College
We all agree that an education beyond high school is important. It can improve
health, self-esteem and earning potential. But, to have the most choices in
mapping out future education plans, action must be taken NOW. Good grades and
taking challenging coursework are some well-known examples of actions that
are needed. In addition, the following list gives other actions that can be
taken to increase future career opportunities:
- Good Attendance
- Completing Homework
- Getting to Know Yourself
- Positive Attitude
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Challenging Coursework
Taking
challenging coursework improves your chances of getting into the schools or
program you want. Schools have specific academic requirements in order to attend.
These requirements vary by school and by program. Listed below is a sample
of a high school curriculum that gives admission requirements that are typical
of many colleges and career schools. Be sure to check admission requirements
of the school(s) you are interested in.
| |
Colleges and Universities
|
Career Schools
|
| English |
4 years |
4 years |
| Science |
2 to 3 years |
1 to 3 years |
| Math & Geography |
3 to 4 years |
2 to 4 years |
| History |
2 to 3 years |
2 to 4 years |
Foreign Language
|
2 to 3 years (same language) |
| Electives |
Economics
Psychology
Communications |
Bookkeeping
Computer Studies
Keyboarding
|
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Good Grades
Just as taking challenging coursework maximizes your higher education
choices, so do getting good grades. Good grades also increase your chances of
receiving scholarships to help you attend college.
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Homework
One of the things that helps you get goods grades is doing your homework.
It is important to do your homework when required and study on a regular basis.
By doing these two things you have a better understanding of the subject and
will do better on exams. This in turn helps you develop great study habits that
will be needed after high school should you decide to get a higher education.
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Attendance
Of course homework helps you get good grades, but it is also important
to have a good attendance record. When you miss class you may not only be missing
out on interesting discussions, but information from these discussions maybe
on the next pop quiz.
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Getting to Know Yourself
Knowing yourself allows you to match your interests with possible career
choices. Contrary to what you may believe, getting to know yourself takes a little
time and maybe a little work. However, by taking this time you will increase
your chances of choosing an appropriate career based on your skills, interest,
and passions. Keep in mind, your interests and passion may change throughout
your life.
Below is a chart to help to you get started "getting to know yourself" by
looking at what interests you.
| My past interests: |
My current interests: |
Jobs relating to
my interests: |
Future career(s) or job(s)
relating to my interests: |
| |
|
|
|
You may want to check with your guidance counselor at your school to see what
other resources may be available to help you get to know your interests, skills,
and passions.
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Positive Attitude
While everything above is important, sometimes it will seem hard. Having
a positive attitude will help you get through it. Remember that by taking these
steps NOW it will pay off in the end. Remind yourself that you can do it and
that it will be worth it! There will be obstacles and there will be things that
slow you down, but by having a positive attitude you will get through it.
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