<p>I currently go to a very nice Prep school but I just don't feel as if I fit in. Something is missing! I am a junior this year and was thinking about graduating high school online through the program International Connections Academy. I feel I would be able to raise my grades and allow myself more freedom to achieve more items to put on an application. (I am currently lacking in that subject) I don't have the best GPA, about a 2.6, and I know that a prep school looks good on an application. I just feel weird about switching as a senior.So I am in a dilemma. Stay in the prep school, continue to feel off, but have a nice school name on my applications or home school online, possibly raise my grades, get more hobbies and activities, but miss out on social events and possibly harming my chances of getting into my dream college. Any advice?</p>
<p>What do you feel is missing from your current school and what do you hope to get out of home schooling? Does your current school not have many ECs, or you’re not eligible to participate unless your grades improve?</p>
<p>Are you in the US? A diploma from an online program may or may not be acceptable as proof of graduation on college applications. It depends on your state. Look up the admission requirements of some colleges you’re interested in. Some require much more of home schooled students than they do of traditionally schooled applicants. Are you willing to get a GED and/or take a series of AP exams if that’s what it takes to be accepted at the college(s) you’re interested in attending? </p>
<p>Do you know any home schoolers? Members of established home school groups in your area can fill you in on regulations. </p>
<p>I would make a list of what you feel is missing from your current situation. Without knowing more, I’m inclined to suggest focusing on increasing your grades where you are and adding an EC that develops an interest you have, but if you can give me an idea what you’re looking for (and your state, if you’re in the US), I can give you an idea what may be available to you.</p>
<p>I’m a big fan of homeschooling and have been homeschooling my daughter since grade 2. However, in your case, it may be better to stick it out a year. Here is why: you will need to have a good explanation as to why you changed your program for senior year. You (or your parents) will need to act as your guidance counselor in the college admissions process unless you enlist outside help. From all my research on college admissions, I can tell you that the prep school won’t matter much if you have a low GPA and haven’t show a lot of extracurricular activities or community service. The college looks to see that you have taken the most rigorous course of study available to you and taken advantage of the opportunities in your school and community given your family circumstance. How doing a summer academic program to gain credits or lessen your senior road. Or just participate in a worthwhile summer program of your interest or talent. Online homeschooling may be flexible and efficient but it is still a lot of hard work. Most kids that I counsel who leave school do so in the lower grades, maybe between 7-9, so they have time to figure the whole thing out. So try to work with a counselor to help you sort out these issues. Good luck!</p>