Are You Ready For College?

Did you know that about 25 percent of all freshmen at four-year colleges do not return for their second year? Sometimes it takes the reality of actually being on campus for students to learn that they’re not ready for college. Whether you’ve already decided to go to college or are still considering your options, this short quiz can help you assess your readiness for the college experience.

1. Are you prepared academically?
According to ACT, you should have taken, at minimum, four years of English and three years each of mathematics (algebra and higher), natural sciences, and social sciences to prepare for a four-year college education. If you have to scramble to keep up with college work, it can cause you a lot of stress.
2. Are you prepared socially?
Leaving home and living with a group of different people your own age is a major transition. Some thrive on it; others aren’t quite ready for such a big life change. Visiting college campuses will help give you an idea what college life is really like.

3. Are you financially equipped?
The average cost of tuition, books, fees, and room and board at a private four-year college is $26,854, according to the College Board, but more expensive schools cost up to $40,000 a year. Be sure to review college costs, financial aid options, and finances with your parents before making a decision.

4. Are you personally ready?
A traditional four-year college is not the only route to take after high school. You simply may feel that living on a campus and studying full-time is not for you right now. Perhaps you don’t feel ready for the independence, or perhaps you’d prefer to explore yourself and the world to help give you a better idea of what you want from college.
If you answered “no” to one or more of these questions, you might want to explore alternatives to attending a four-year college. Community college can be a less expensive way to get an education without living on a campus; taking a year off to volunteer or work can provide you with an enhanced personal perspective; the military can provide you with career opportunities and a chance to serve your country, and trade school may be a good option if you want to learn a hands-on skill that will give you on-the-job experience and a clear path into the workplace.
Article courtesy of www.careersandcolleges.com