Here are five to get you started:
Learn when to say no
Standing out on a college application does not mean that you have to fill out every line on the extra curricular activities section. No one wants you to burn out and be completely drained by the time you graduate from high school. To find success, you may need to focus on finding balance.
Find something that really interests you
Instead of just filling your plate with lots of activities, find ones that are meaningful to you. This will also help you find a focus. Colleges like students who demonstrate clear interests and find ways to express those interests.
Raise Your Grades
You’ve heard it once, you’ve heard it twice and you will hear it many more times as you go through the college admissions process. Grades are important, very important. Take some time to evaluate your courses. Struggling? Find a tutor or extra help. Doing well? Keep it up and continue to challenge yourself in the classroom.
Take a risk
I’m not talking about doing something dangerous but it’s okay to try something new. Step out of your comfort zone. New experiences may open your eyes to new interests and different perspectives. They may also provide you with good learning opportunities, challenges, and possibly a good college essay topic.
Take some control of your own schedule
Time management is an incredibly important and necessary skill in life. When you go to college you will be forced to make a lot of decisions about your schedule on your own. You will have to figure out how to balance appointments, classes, meals, practices and much more. Start now and try and keep your own calendar.
Happy New Year!
image credit: https://chronus.com/how-to-rope-in-mentees-in-the-new-year
