<p>I will be a freshman this year at my high school. I am dreaming of going to an ivy league school(Upenn). any pointers on how I should start preparing?</p>
<p>I never even considered Ivy league schools as a freshman. Honestly, there is so much that can happen. It is very difficult to predict if you, as a 13 or 14 year old, have what it takes to get in.</p>
<p>I encourage you to strive to be the best–to get into UPenn or other Ivies. But I don’t think that should be your end goal. You could end up being very disappointed if you work for 4 years pursuing admission into UPenn. Of course, you will have lots of fun along the way! And that is what you should concentrate on–the journey. </p>
<p>Remember, college is just another stepping stone for you to enter the real world. Do you really want to get ahead? Start looking for internships, job shadowing, and just general experience in the “adult” world. This can help you get into an Ivy league, since if you happen to find out early on what you want to do in life, this passion will show through when you apply. More importantly, you could gain valuable experience to put on your resume and make connections that will help you out when you graduate.</p>
<p>One thing to do: find someone who has already done what you want to do. Go onto the annual “Class of 20-- Acceptance list” for each school. Look for a meaningful description of some of the activities and awards of the people who were accepted into each school. And if you see something that sounds interesting and impressive to you, research it, and decide if you would like to do the same activity.</p>
<p>Seriously. Congratulations on your ambition–I know I had no goal or plan for the future as a freshman. I know that your proactive and inquisitive nature will take you far.</p>
<p>As for the SAT, grades, and other bothersome things, do your best, but don’t let them take over your life. They are there to enrich you, not control you.</p>
<p>I wish I would have had that goal when I was a freshman. MAKE SURE YOU DO THINGS BESIDES SCHOOL. If you can start a club at your school that does something that you enjoy. Just keep your grades up like always and have fun (not some much fun as to get busted:) )</p>