The top nine things students can do to insure their chances of getting into college are related to their academic choices, participation and reputation. Students who pay attention to the following nine areas of activity are well on their way to college acceptance.

         Take a full academic load during the senior year. Students who take a light load are considered to be “taking a victory lap”. The are also setting themselves up for failure as college students because they will get out of practice managing a full academic load.

·         Take the most challenging courses possible for your skill level. Students who fail to take any AP, Honors or other challenging courses will not meet the academic requirements of some colleges even though their grade point averages will be high.

·         Step up to leadership positions. Colleges look for applicants who have leadership experience. College extracurricular leadership enhances job prospects at graduation.

·         Participate in activities. Colleges look for applicants who will become active campus citizens. Being active means meeting friends who may one day help you get a job.

          Volunteer. Colleges actively look for students who are altruistic and enjoy helping people. They make great campus citizens.

·         Work part time in order to show that you can handle responsibility and that you are a student who is not afraid to work for what you want to achieve. Having a job

In high school can also translate into a great letter of reference for college admission and campus jobs later.

·         Avoid underage drinking and drugs as arrests or suspensions for substance abuse infractions can keep a student out of college.

·         Stay out of trouble. Suspension from school seriously affects admission chances and scholarship options.

·         Be nice to your school counselor. Your school counselor gets to write a confidential evaluation on you for every college. This person can help or hurt your chances of getting in.