Hi I’m a sophomore student in NYC and no, I’m not one of those students that are the top of their class, but Im not the worse. I do care about my future a lot and since I do not get the best grades in my school, I am very worried about college. I was wondering if you could help me and give me advice on what to do to get into at least a decent college. I was wondering what classes you took each of your years and if you did any sports or clubs in school, community service and summer programs. I’m a sophomore which means I should have already started doing something but I have no idea what to do and what I need in order to get into a good college. I really hope it doesn’t bother anyone for the questions. Thanks!!
ok ok, everyone want ‘help’ here so get more specific in your title to help you get more people who know about your issue/question…
First thing to do is to look at the admissions requirements for some of your state school options. Each college will have an admissions page and the course requirements you need in high school to be qualified for admission. There will be something for you in the CUNY or SUNY system or both. Now concentrate on academics first before you worry about extras. Some colleges care about the extras and some don’t. Find what you like to do. There is nothing that you have to do specifically. Just show interest in your school, your community or a special project or activity you have.
I’m a teacher on Long Island. I’m in a college prep high school.
Know that EVERY SINGLE ONE of this year’s graduates is going to college next year. Yep, even the kids “not at the top of the class.” Even the kid who was ranked lowest of the 500 graduates.
There’s absolutely a school out there for you, in fact, there are lots of schools out there for you.
So here’s what I want you to do:
- Last year is over-- you’re just waiting for those Regents results to come in. So don’t sweat the past year. But I do want you to hang on to a few of your notebooks: math, foreign language and English. minimally. You may find that you can use them next year.
- You need an organizational plan that will help you improve your grades next year. A calendar on the wall of your room can actually be a huge help. Write tests, quizzes, papers, projects-- all that goes onto your calendar. (You can color code by subject or type of assignment if you think it will help.)
- Take a look at your yearbook if you have one, or at your school's website. Find 2 or 3 activities that sound interesting, and promise yourself you'll join next year. Not a gazillion, but 2 or 3.
As far as colleges go: do you have any idea what you want to major in?
Let’s assume not. Here are some options:
- As the previous poster mentioned, CUNY is a wonderful option if you want to stay home.
- If you're thinking of going away, SUNY has a huge range of options. Some are much easier to get into than others. (For example, take a look at Morrisville and Delhi.) And there are even community colleges that have dorms: two I'm aware of are Broome County and Tompkins-Cortland.
- There are lots of private schools that provide decent aid, and that accept kids who aren't at the top of their class. Your guidance counselor will be happy to work with you in the fall, and to find some that meet your academic, financial and educational needs. In the meantime, why not play with the College Match feature here, and on other sites?
- Finally, what are you doing this summer? Is there a program of some sort that you can attend? A class you can take, a volunteer opportunity, a job?
Good luck!!
I would start with this list of schools
http://www.ctcl.org/colleges/list
take the time and read about each of these schools and you are going to probably find several that really interest you.
also when you find a school no matter where you choose to go …do not feel the pressure to get validation from those around you in your school! do what is best for you! I was born in NYC and know how a lot of people from NYC are hyper competitive and think the world ends at NYC’s borders.
I would say to open your mind and heart when it comes to defining a “good” or “decent” college. If you are preoccupied with brand prestige, you will probably be disappointed. If you look for a college based on your own desires and needs, you will undoubtedly find one among the thousands or American colleges out there. The biggest mistake that even the most impeccably qualified student can make in today’s admissions landscape is to become overly attached to a “brand.” Most four-year colleges are “good” and “decent.” You will get into one provided you fulfill your high school’s requirements satisfactorily. Do not pursue activities because you think they will look good on an application. Somebody else will always have a stronger application. Do what interests and pleases you.
Tell us your stats, tell us your major, and tell us how much your family will pay each year for college.