Seniors

Why College?

Senior year can seem like a blur of too many things to do and not enough time. But it’s important to occasionally pause, take a deep breath, and remember the reasons why you’re making this effort—and how your investment in college will really pay off.

Reasons to Go

Reason #1: On average, most college graduates earn a lot more money during their working years than people who stop their education at high school.

Reason #2: Most of today’s good, well-paying jobs require more than a high school diploma. Businesses want to hire people who know how to think critically and solve problems—skills that are taught through post-secondary education.

Reason #3: Education beyond high school brings you a lot of opportunities, including meeting new people, exploring new interests, and experiencing success

Reason #4: The more education you get, the more job security you’ll have. According to one estimate, by the year 2028 there will be 19 million more jobs for educated workers than there will be qualified people to fill them.

Over a lifetime, a high school dropout working full-time will earn $300,000 less than a high school graduate and at least $1 million less than a college graduate. It’s easy to see that if you want to do well, graduating from high school is a must.

Here are a few more good reasons why you should stay in school:

Whether or not you graduate from high school will most likely determine the quality of life you live as an adult.
High school dropouts are four times more likely than college graduates to be unemployed.
On average, high school graduates earn $175 more per week than high school dropouts, and college graduates earn $368 more per week than high school graduates.

Bottom line: You’ve got a lot to lose by giving up, and everything to gain by being serious about school.

Reasons to Know

Think class work and homework are a waste of time? Learning how to study can give you a real edge by the time you get to college. Studies show that the more math courses you take in high school, the more likely you are to graduate from college.

Making good study habits a part of your school life is easier than you think. Here are some tips to get you on the right track.

Focus: Find a quiet, organized space, such as a study table at the library. Turn off anything that could possibly distract you.

Plan ahead: If you have a big test or paper coming up, set aside plenty of time so that you aren't cramming at the last moment. Manage your time and study your most important assignments first.

Pay attention and participate: If you are actively contributing and listening in class, your studying will be easier and more interesting.

Check your work: After you've completed an assignment, take a few minutes to look it over for any mistakes. You don’t want to turn in anything but your best effort.

Don't go it alone: Find a classmate, mentor, coach, tutor, or study buddy to help keep you going.

Required Courses

The list below gives you a good overview of what courses you need to take in high school to meet standard college entrance requirements. Of course, every college has its own requirements—check with the schools you’re interested in to see what they recommend.

English: Four or more years (grammar, composition, literature)
Mathematics: Three or more years (algebra I and higher—does not include general math, business math, or consumer math)
Natural Sciences: Three or more years (earth science, biology, chemistry, physics)
Social Sciences: Three or more years (history, economics, geography, civics, psychology)
Additional Courses: Some colleges and universities require other classes as prerequisites for admission, such as two or more years of the same foreign language or courses in the visual arts, music, theater, drama, dance, or computer science

Visit the Campus

No matter how many brochures you read or websites you visit, nothing tells you more about a college than visiting its campus in person. Plus, you can learn a lot more just by asking questions.

Ask your college host...

What activities and services are available to help students get settled (academically and socially) during their first year?
How big are the classes?
What is the total cost of attending the college?
What types of financial aid does the college offer, and how do I apply?
Are all freshmen assigned to an academic advisor?
Where do most freshmen live?
Can I take a tour?
What activities are available for students?
Who teaches the courses for first-year students?
How successful are the college's graduates in finding jobs?
What services (such as transportation and shopping) are available locally?

Ask students that you meet on the campus...

How easy is it to meet with faculty?
Are you able to register for the classes you want?
What is there to do on weekends?
Do most students stay or leave campus on weekends?

Applying

Completing college applications can take a lot of time, so you want to make sure that you get it right! Here are some tips to guide you through the process:

Know the guidelines. Before you start applying to schools, find out the application deadlines and fees for each school you are considering.
Plan ahead. It takes time to get standardized test scores tabulated and mailed, and it takes time for school counselors and others providing references to gather information.
Follow the instructions and proofread. The application is often a college admission committee's first contact with you. Make a good impression with a neat application that is free from spelling and grammatical errors.
Work with your high school to send all records and test scores. Go to your high school guidance office for help with getting all necessary transcripts (grade history), records, test scores, and applications sent to prospective schools.
Make the most of personal references. Prepare a neat and legible reference form and give your references plenty of time to respond. Ask people who know you well and will be able to give your school a great impression of you.
Write an outstanding essay. Admissions essays are a great opportunity for you to convince a school admissions department that you would be an ideal addition to their student body. Take your time, do your best, and ask a parent or teacher to proofread it for you before submitting.
Be ready to interview, audition, or submit a portfolio. Some colleges also require a personal interview or examples of work in special areas such as art or music.