Getting Ready

Some argue that planning ahead for college creates stress, but I believe if you plan carefully and with clear vision, it can help students and not put pressure on them. Early preparation for college in the current competitive school environment is very important. Preparing to attend college early, in middle school or beginning high school, enables students to discover their interests, learn good study habits, and make smart choices in terms of classes, activities, and possible careers.

It is important to realize that planning early does not necessarily mean forcing a 12-year-old to declare a major or commit to one specific college. Instead, it means helping students understand that their future is important and giving them the tools to take small, suitable steps towards their dreams. For example, learning about how GPA works, trying out activities that can potentially become hobbies, or even just being encouraged to read more can make a huge difference down the road.

Some of the critics of early planning do have legitimate arguments, including stress and burnout on the part of the students. The “college admissions frenzy” is real, and it is a product of misinformation, peer pressure, and an either-or mentality. The remedy is not to postpone preparation but to reconceive preparation itself. Preparation must be based on curiosity, growth, and self-discovery and not competition and anxiety.

Early planning will be a matter of choice, not anxiety. It gives students the chance to experiment with new things, to find out what they enjoy, and even to change their minds. Isn’t that preferable to having to make decisions during junior or senior year, when there is little time and lots of pressure?

In the end, college does matter, but it shouldn’t be controlling a young persons life. Students and parents alike are helped when they know what’s ahead not to fret about it, but to face it with intention and confidence. Let’s help our students prepare early, think broadly, and dream realistically, because the future goes to the prepared

“Graduation” by schwglr is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0.