
Is It Time For Your Tween to Start Prepping For College?
It might sound surprising—preparing for college eight years in advance—but experts agree that starting early can make a significant difference. This is especially true for students with ambitious goals, like attending a top university or pursuing a specific career path. The college application process is stressful enough without the added pressure of trying to fit everything into high school. By starting early, both parents and students can approach the process more thoughtfully, reducing the anxiety that often accompanies it. Breaking the process into smaller, manageable steps gives families a sense of control and preparedness. A win-win-win!
Here are some actionable steps to help your middle schooler get started, setting them up for success and easing the stress down the road.
1. Build Strong Academic Habits
Middle school is a critical time for shaping future academic performance.
- Develop effective study habits: Teach time management, note-taking, and test preparation strategies. These skills will serve them well throughout their education. Empower your child to take responsibility for tracking assignments and tasks, and check their work to ensure accuracy.
- Encourage challenges: If available, suggest joining programs like coding or math clubs to foster intellectual growth.
2. Encourage Extracurricular Involvement
Colleges value well-rounded students who demonstrate passion and commitment. Middle school is a great time to explore different interests and try new activities. Remember, it’s not about being the best or at the top of the team; involvement and learning to handle setbacks are key!
- Join clubs or sports teams: These help develop teamwork skills and build resilience.
- Volunteer in the community: Volunteering fosters empathy and provides valuable experiences. Personal circumstances can often spark a passion for specific causes.
3. Develop Strong Reading and Writing Skills
Reading widely and writing clearly are essential for academic success.
- Encourage diverse reading: Books across genres expand vocabulary and critical thinking. From graphic novels to non-fiction, all forms of writing have value.Preview (opens in a new tab)
- Practice writing: Encourage essay writing, journaling, or creative writing to improve communication skills. This is also a fantastic way for kids to manage stress.
- Get involved in competitions: Look into local writing contests or book clubs. You’d be amazed how many local contests are listed through libraries with a simple Google search.
4. Explore Career Interests
Middle school is the perfect time to start exploring potential career paths.
- Research careers: Discuss various professions and the education required for each. Don’t forget to talk about salary expectations, work-life balance, and career longevity, especially in light of the evolving AI landscape.
- Talk to professionals: Encourage conversations with people in fields your child finds interesting. Prepare a list of questions to make the most out of these discussions.
- Participate in career-focused programs or camps: Many camps offer opportunities to explore specific industries. A quick search can lead you to local camps that are age-appropriate.
5. Understand the Importance of Grades and Communicating with Teachers
Although middle school grades don’t directly impact college applications, they lay the foundation for high school success.
- Reinforce effort: Encourage your child to consistently put forth their best effort in all subjects.
- Seek help when needed: Encourage them to ask for help from teachers or tutors when struggling. Speaking up for help teaches accountability, a vital skill for college.
- Celebrate achievements: Recognize and celebrate accomplishments, no matter how small. Perfect grades aren’t the goal—learning and growing through the process are what matter most.
6. Foster Financial Literacy
It’s never too early to start discussing the cost of college and financial aid.
- Teach budgeting skills: Help your child understand the importance of saving and managing money.
- Explain scholarships and grants: Introduce them to the basics of financial aid options like FAFSA and merit-based scholarships.
- Explore school options: Highlight the differences in tuition between state and private colleges. For example, attending a state school with in-state tuition can be a significant cost-saving option.
7. Encourage a Growth Mindset
Middle schoolers will face academic and social challenges, so nurturing resilience is key.
- Embrace setbacks as learning opportunities: Celebrate failures as chances to learn. Ask your child what they learned from a particular setback.
- Set realistic goals and celebrate progress: Focus on growth and progress, not just results.
- Seek mentors: Encourage your child to connect with positive mentors—teachers, coaches, or older students—who can offer guidance and support.
8. Introduce the Idea of College Early
Make college a familiar and approachable concept by discussing it often.
- Visit campuses: During family trips, visit college campuses to make the idea of higher education more tangible. Show them around your alma mater or nearby universities.
- Discuss the value of higher education: Explore the career opportunities and personal growth that come with college. Also, consider alternatives like trade schools, which may be the perfect fit for some students after high school.
By implementing these steps early on, you can help your middle schooler build a strong foundation for their college journey while reducing future stress. Starting early not only prepares them for the academic and personal challenges ahead but also gives them a sense of control over their future success.