LIFE

College is a big decision, and one that might seem like a long ways off, especially if you're in middle school. But it turns out it's never too early to start thinking about (and planning for) your future. We chatted with Sara Harberson, founder of Admissions Revolution and SaraHarberson.com, to get the deets on how to get started and how to put your best foot forward when applying for college.

GL: When should you start preparing for college?

Sara: Formal prep starts in high school but having a strong 8th grade year can ensure you're able to take the challenging courses you want and be ready to succeed in them starting in 9th grade. Also, anything you can do to explore what you love early on can open the door to making an impact on that activity once you get to high school. The fact is that girls graduate from high school at a higher rate than boys which has led to a higher percentage of girls going to college than boys in our country. This is all *good* news for girls. But because there are more of them applying, it can sometimes be harder for them to get admitted. 

GL: What can girls do in middle school to put them on the right track for college?

Sara: You can think about your academic records the way colleges view them. They like to see a strong performance in all five academic subjects before anything else. Doing well in math, science, English, foreign language, and history in middle school is the best preparation to succeed in high school and college. But you don't have to give up on your outside interests. In fact, the more you can develop an interest or hobby separate from academics, the more confidence you'll gain. If you have the ability to commit to something in middle school, you can duplicate that success again and again in other areas.

Seeking out mentors is also important. Girls shouldn't wait until high school or college to reach out to people they admire. Often we just need one person to give us a shot and the rest is history. Female leaders, educators, community members, and even high school girls can all serve as mentors.

GL: How can a girl make herself stand out in the process?

Sara: Don't let anything or anyone stand in the way of your goals. Taking the most challenging courses and doing well for all four years of high school is the key. But getting into selective colleges isn't just about grades and test scores. The girls who take on big ideas, make a significant impact or take on meaningful leadership roles within their community stand out. 

GL: What makes the "perfect" well-rounded college candidate?

Sara: Being "well-rounded" is no longer a necessity. In fact, there is a growing number of well-lopsided students who focus on a handful of interests instead of spreading themselves thin among multiple activities. I have always admired the students who take a slightly different path, even if it means going out on their own to pursue something meaningful. Since there is no set activity you have to do, you should take advantage of this freedom to do something that speaks directly to your interests and strengths.

GL: What's your best piece of advice for girls as they start thinking about college?

Sara: Don't give those colleges a reason to not admit you. Defy the odds. Defy the stereotypes our society has for girls. Be a change agent even in high school. Don't ever sit back and wait for an opportunity to come your way. Go after it. That can translate into going after a big idea, running for a leadership role, seeking out a teacher for mentorship and later a letter of recommendation, and introducing yourself to an admissions officer at a college fair if you love the college where they work. 
 

Do you know where you want to go to college or what you want to major in? Tell us below! 

by Amanda Tarlton | 9/22/2016