Preparing for college isn’t something that starts senior year. It’s a process that can begin as early as your sophomore or junior year. The classes you take and the activities you join throughout high school can shape the options available to you—but it’s never too late to start planning. Whether you already have a good idea of what you want to study in college or you’re still exploring options, planning for college early can be a huge help. By the time it’s actually time to apply for college, you’ll feel much more confident and prepared.
Consider Your Interests
The first step in planning for college is narrowing down what subjects or fields excite you. What are your favorite classes? Do you have hobbies or participate in activities that could transition into a career? Some degree programs have specific high school prerequisites, so the earlier you figure out what degree programs you might want to pursue, the sooner you’ll know what classes or GPA requirements you need to fulfill.
Build a College List
Once you have an idea of potential degree programs you’re interested in, start researching colleges that offer them. Think about factors like school size, location, and campus culture. As you develop a list, pay attention to each school’s admissions requirements. Some colleges require standardized test scores while others have test-optional policies. Certain programs may also have additional prerequisites, such as portfolios for design-related degrees. Understanding these requirements early will keep you on track academically and ensure you meet all necessary criteria for admission. If you need help, talk to an advisor or counselor at your school; that’s what they’re there for!
Plan for College Costs
College is a major investment, and planning for costs early can help reduce stress about the financials down the road. First, start looking into financial aid options like grants, scholarships, and work-study programs. Aside from institutional scholarships, look into your local community for scholarship opportunities. Many students also apply for national rewards, so don’t forget to see if you qualify for those too. Additionally, completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as it becomes available will give you access to federal grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. You’ll likely need to work with your parents to complete your FAFSA, as household income factors into financial aid rewards.
Stay Focused on Academics
Strong academic performance is one of the most important factors in your college admissions. Try to maintain a GPA that keeps you on the honor or merit roll. If possible, challenge yourself with honors, Advanced Placements (AP), or dual enrollment courses to show you’re able to handle college-level coursework successfully. Planning ahead for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT is also essential. It’s also a good idea to talk with your teachers and see if you can rely on them for letters of recommendation when it comes time to apply.
Get Involved in Extracurriculars
Aside from your grades, extracurricular activities are key when applying to colleges. Schools look for well-rounded students who are engaged in activities outside the classroom. Clubs, sports, volunteer work, and leadership roles all look great on college applications. Remember though, commitment and depth of involvement are more valuable than simply having a long list of activities. Summer opportunities, such as internships, part-time jobs, or academic programs, can also strengthen your application and give you valuable experience in your field of interest.
Apply to Villa Maria College
Villa is proud to provide a supportive, nurturing environment for students. We offer several bachelor’s and associate degree programs in fields like graphic design, interior design, digital media, fine arts, physical therapist assistant, and much more. Villa Maria College awards grants and scholarships to 96% of its students and 99% of students receive some form of aid. We even cover the cost of class books and supplies to limit out-of-pocket expenses for our students. Want to learn more? Reach out to our admissions department or apply online today!
