I'm going to be a freshman in high school (2024-2025) Any advice on classes I should take or things I need to do?

Answered

If your school doesn't offer AP, check out dual enrollment as an option. Sometimes high schools partner with the local cc so you can take the class at your hs, but other times you have to directly enroll as a DE student at the cc and attend online or in-person classes. I am a junior and currently taking 2 DE classes online. I cannot take AP as a homeschooler without paying over $700; DE was cheaper and my dream school has direct agreements with the cc, so the credits transfer into my bachelor's!!

As far as ECs, tip #1 is ALWAYS quality over quantity- cannot stress that enough. Frazzling yourself by cramming in this here and this there is not good. Choosing a few ECs you are passionate about and sticking to them shows commitment, passion, and demonstrated interest. This appeals to admission officers! Also, leadership roles are important. If you stay commited to specific clubs, consider applying for leadership positions. Another great option is to start your own club! Do what you love and then it won't feel like filling a resume- my ECs are all things that invigorate and interest me. Remember, you do want to enjoy high school! All work and no play is not good for you despite whatever people say.

If you are aiming for Ivy Leagues, keeping A's will be vital. If you find your grades slipping the slightest bit, address it early. Get help from your teacher, a peer, tutor- identify the setback and take measures to fix it immediately! This gives you more time to restablish grades and less time to be confused :)

Now, I do want to emphasize that attending an Ivy is not necessarily The Path to a successful career; choose the school that will best train you for your career and rank won't matter. I am choosing a safety school BUT I am super excited about their hands-on program, social environment, and job oppportunities!! Also, since it is a safety school, they will offer me bigger scholarships so my GPA and test scores get added into their average stats calculations. Because I do not qualify for need-based aid and have 4 siblings all close in age, this merit scholarship is a huge deal for me and will cut my college costs more than 1/2! So, consider where you will be happiest, best trained, and finances (if a factor) above the school's rank. I personally know people who left Ivy League schools b/c they were exhausted and unable to keep the grades due to sickness, etc, and losing their scholarships. Pick a school where you will have the most positive experience. It's ok to aspire to attend an Ivy, but don't be crushed is that becomes difficult to obtain- there are so many great options out there and something will fit you specifically!

Enjoy high school and just always do your best! No one (including yourself) should expect more than that!