Counselors suggest students start preparing for college as soon as possible. Because of colleges’ unpredictable changes and high tuition fees, students are encouraged to start as soon as the seventh grade.

Students in middle school are advised to take prep classes, get used to the rigorous pace of high school, prepare for college and get involved with extracurricular activities. Students are also advised to take practice tests for the PSAT, SAT and ACT.

College counselor Randy Fong said, “I recommend seventh and eighth graders to challenge themselves and expect higher workloads and expectations. The best thing I recommend for students is to be a good time manager and to always have an action plan.”

Dean Keidi Chandler, who oversees the admission office at Fisk University, said, “The tests offer a chance to see how you’ve done on the test and where you need to improve and it also allows colleges to identify you and say, ‘Hey, maybe this person is eligible for [one of our] scholarships.’”

Junior Angela Wong said, “I think that although the classes are intended to be a challenge, it is important to take classes that meet a student’s academic ability. I think the most important thing about taking harder classes, including APs and Honors, is finding balance to study, turn in assignments and participate in class discussions. These classes are definitely preparing me for college and beyond by teaching me time management and responsibility.”

Students are encouraged to develop skills that will help them succeed in college and life, including note-taking and listening skills.

Students are also encouraged to make goals for each grade. High school students should also keep a list of awards, community service and leadership roles and responsibilities and keep them updated throughout high school. Keeping track of one’s activities and hours will help as one applies to colleges.