Truth: You never have to think about college at all. If you don't want to explore a lifetime of increased career opportunities, higher earning potential, elevated standards of living, and better health insurance benefits or learn more about yourself before joining the "9 to 5" grind, then you can delay thinking about college forever.
If you want a chance to actually "get in" to the college that is right for you, then training should begin much earlier. For great tips tailored to your high school grade, click here!
Top reasons to think about college NOW rather than later:
- The students that want to go to your future college are already gearing up.
- You have to know what it takes to win admission so that you can adequately prepare.
- There are over 3500 college and university options out there! You owe it to yourself to explore the ones that would be the best fit for you.
- Building a relationship with college admissions officers takes time.
- College costs are all over the board. You have to come up with a "paying for college" strategy that will actually allow you to attend and afford to stay in.
- Beyond competing for acceptance, you also have to compete for financial aid and scholarships. Need-based aid is often "first come; first served" and merit aid often goes to the early bird with the best qualifications. Don't miss the "college aid" bus and be left holding the whole tuition bill.
My advice: Take your college future seriously and train like you would for any other major competition with a big prize. How you handle your college search and where you end up enrolling could set the stage for your adult life. If you are a freshman or sophomore, determine how you are going to take the most advanced high school courses that are available. Start exploring colleges that interest you and don't get bogged down with choosing a major or where you will finally enroll. You can be proud of yourself for taking an active role in exploring and planning your college future!