9 answers
Norbert
Student
Newark, New Jersey
9
Questions
Asked
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What to do in 8th grade to get into MIT?
I am currently nearing the end of my 8th-grade year, and I want to go to MIT. What can I do now to allow me to be able to go to MIT? Any advice, in all areas.
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8 answers
Judy Dueker
Governance - Issue Management Manager
3
Answers
Rochester, New York
Updated
Judy’s Answer
Hi Norbert,
It's exciting to hear about your interest in attending MIT. At this stage, I recommend beginning early academic preparation by exploring SAT prep classes and resources and considering taking the PSAT when eligible. I would also suggest reviewing MIT's admissions requirements to understand their academic expectations and areas of focus. For my children (three in college), as their interests developed, they began identifying potential fields of study and found opportunities such as shadowing professionals - often family friends and engaging in STEM-related activities within our community. These experiences were instrumental in helping them hone in on academic interests, connect face to face with professionals, and gain guidance, and mentorship from individuals working in their fields of interest.
Early planning, curiosity, and consistent academic excellence will position you well for future opportunities. Good luck in your college search and future endeavors!
It's exciting to hear about your interest in attending MIT. At this stage, I recommend beginning early academic preparation by exploring SAT prep classes and resources and considering taking the PSAT when eligible. I would also suggest reviewing MIT's admissions requirements to understand their academic expectations and areas of focus. For my children (three in college), as their interests developed, they began identifying potential fields of study and found opportunities such as shadowing professionals - often family friends and engaging in STEM-related activities within our community. These experiences were instrumental in helping them hone in on academic interests, connect face to face with professionals, and gain guidance, and mentorship from individuals working in their fields of interest.
Early planning, curiosity, and consistent academic excellence will position you well for future opportunities. Good luck in your college search and future endeavors!
Theresa Cross
Change Management/Adoption
4
Answers
Amherst, New York
Updated
Theresa’s Answer
Hi Norbert,
Thinking about college is exciting and it's great that you're focused on how to achieve your goals. I've read through the other advice which is GREAT. My son interviewed with MIT and didn't get in, but he was very happy with his experience at RIT. To add to what the others said, I'd work on perfecting your speaking skills and confidence so that if and when the day comes that you do interview you are ready. Also, know that what we think we want may change if we allow space in our lives. Don't get too hung up on one outcome. If something else happens that feels right, know it's okay to change what you want. Sometimes that is when the best things happen!
Best of luck to you.
Thinking about college is exciting and it's great that you're focused on how to achieve your goals. I've read through the other advice which is GREAT. My son interviewed with MIT and didn't get in, but he was very happy with his experience at RIT. To add to what the others said, I'd work on perfecting your speaking skills and confidence so that if and when the day comes that you do interview you are ready. Also, know that what we think we want may change if we allow space in our lives. Don't get too hung up on one outcome. If something else happens that feels right, know it's okay to change what you want. Sometimes that is when the best things happen!
Best of luck to you.
Vianne Phan
Youth Development Teacher
296
Answers
San Diego, California
Updated
Vianne’s Answer
It's great that you're thinking about this early! Remember, MIT doesn't expect you to be at their level in 8th grade. What really matters is your curiosity, strong basics, and genuine interest. Right now, focus on building a good foundation in math and science. In high school, aim for challenging classes you can handle well, like algebra, calculus, physics, chemistry, and computer science. Doing well in these is more important than rushing and burning out.
Outside of class, explore what you truly enjoy, not just what seems impressive. If you like coding, try learning Python or another language and create small projects. If you're into science or engineering, join or start clubs like robotics, science olympiad, math team, or coding club. MIT loves students who dive deep into one or two interests instead of trying to do everything. Reading, tinkering, experimenting, and asking questions on your own time really make a difference.
Also, don't forget to enjoy being a kid and have fun learning. MIT students are not just smart; they're curious, creative, and driven by ideas, not just prestige. Over the next few years, focus on growth rather than perfection. If you keep challenging yourself, following your interests, and developing good habits, you'll be in a great spot for MIT or any top school. And even if MIT isn't where you end up, this path will still lead you to success anywhere.
Outside of class, explore what you truly enjoy, not just what seems impressive. If you like coding, try learning Python or another language and create small projects. If you're into science or engineering, join or start clubs like robotics, science olympiad, math team, or coding club. MIT loves students who dive deep into one or two interests instead of trying to do everything. Reading, tinkering, experimenting, and asking questions on your own time really make a difference.
Also, don't forget to enjoy being a kid and have fun learning. MIT students are not just smart; they're curious, creative, and driven by ideas, not just prestige. Over the next few years, focus on growth rather than perfection. If you keep challenging yourself, following your interests, and developing good habits, you'll be in a great spot for MIT or any top school. And even if MIT isn't where you end up, this path will still lead you to success anywhere.
Thank you so much, Vianne!
Norbert
C Venkat
37
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
C’s Answer
Hi Norbert,
It's amazing that you are thinking about college at this age and trying to plan ahead!
Top schools like MIT expect to see very high scores in your SAT, a solid performance throughout high school, especially in STEM subjects like Math, Physics etc. In addition, getting involved in extracurriculars related to STEM (e.g. Robotics), and any other unique interests you may have (this can be a non-STEM activity - from community service, arts, sports, journalism, working at a job etc. - to showcase your talents).
It is important to be consistent with what you focus your time on (a few activities that you do really well instead of a lot of activities just to have a long list on your resume).
Use your summer time to take courses in your local community college, get a job (even if it is not related to STEM, it shows you are responsible) or hone in on your hobby (do you like music? If so, take lessons, perform at local community events etc.).
Your guidance counselor, a trusted teacher or other adult can also help you and guide you on specific coursework available to you. Be sure to check with them as well.
One important thing to note: Do not get carried away with school rankings and where you think you want to go. Visit the schools to see if you are able to and compare for yourself before you apply. If you know someone who attends the college you want to go to, they are a good source of information as they can tell you what it is really like inside the campus and the day to day workload etc.
Good luck with your college!
It's amazing that you are thinking about college at this age and trying to plan ahead!
Top schools like MIT expect to see very high scores in your SAT, a solid performance throughout high school, especially in STEM subjects like Math, Physics etc. In addition, getting involved in extracurriculars related to STEM (e.g. Robotics), and any other unique interests you may have (this can be a non-STEM activity - from community service, arts, sports, journalism, working at a job etc. - to showcase your talents).
It is important to be consistent with what you focus your time on (a few activities that you do really well instead of a lot of activities just to have a long list on your resume).
Use your summer time to take courses in your local community college, get a job (even if it is not related to STEM, it shows you are responsible) or hone in on your hobby (do you like music? If so, take lessons, perform at local community events etc.).
Your guidance counselor, a trusted teacher or other adult can also help you and guide you on specific coursework available to you. Be sure to check with them as well.
One important thing to note: Do not get carried away with school rankings and where you think you want to go. Visit the schools to see if you are able to and compare for yourself before you apply. If you know someone who attends the college you want to go to, they are a good source of information as they can tell you what it is really like inside the campus and the day to day workload etc.
Good luck with your college!
Tammy Prosser
Educator
56
Answers
Buffalo, New York
Updated
Tammy’s Answer
Make an appointment to talk with your school counselor about the courses that you want to take in high school. If your school offers an opportunity in eighth grade to take algebra I and advanced science, do so as taking those classes in eighth grade will then allow you to take more AP courses and upper level math, science and STEM classes in your junior and senior year of high school. A lot of students are under the misconception that a high GPA is the only thing that matters. And while your GPA is important, what colleges are really looking at is the rigor of academic courses that you chose in high school to get that GPA. Having a B in an AP course actually looks stronger on your transcript than getting an A in a basic level elective. Colleges want to see that you’ve challenged yourself and are taking a strong and rigorous set of courses. Talking early with your school counselor about your plans is really important so that they can help you make a high school plan which includes rigorous coursework, PSAT/SAT and/or ACT plans, and help you build a resume of extracurriculars. Colleges are looking for well rounded individuals so it’s excellent that you are planning ahead! Your school counselor is the person who is trained and helping you with all of these things. Make sure that you learn who your counselor is in HS and make an appointment early on to let them know your plans.
Charnelle Saint-laurent
Observer analyst
73
Answers
Huntington Station, New York
Updated
Charnelle’s Answer
Hello Norbert,
I love your in ambition in futhering your education especially at such a renowned school such as MIT. I think the other volunteers gave great advice. To give further advice to secure your spot at such a well known school I would suggest looking into early summer programs they may have. Keep up your grades make high honor roll, join clubs in school and the community. Have a good relationship with your teachers and coaches. I hope you read books in the IT field to help you get a head start. Just dropping some gems for you to help you out, tell a friend or classmate.
Best wishes,
CSL
I love your in ambition in futhering your education especially at such a renowned school such as MIT. I think the other volunteers gave great advice. To give further advice to secure your spot at such a well known school I would suggest looking into early summer programs they may have. Keep up your grades make high honor roll, join clubs in school and the community. Have a good relationship with your teachers and coaches. I hope you read books in the IT field to help you get a head start. Just dropping some gems for you to help you out, tell a friend or classmate.
Best wishes,
CSL
Fehmi Sami
4
Answers
London, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Fehmi’s Answer
Excel Excel Excel
Do well in Mathematics, Physics, and other subjects you have an instinctive interest in
Get involved with a passion in projects and activities that you can actively participate in
Make a plan. Seek guidance. Build on your path to shape yourself into an individual that stands out from the rest
Do well in Mathematics, Physics, and other subjects you have an instinctive interest in
Get involved with a passion in projects and activities that you can actively participate in
Make a plan. Seek guidance. Build on your path to shape yourself into an individual that stands out from the rest
Thanks for your encouragement!
Norbert
Denise Gonzalez
Retired
4
Answers
Alpharetta, Georgia
Updated
Denise’s Answer
Hi,
Congratulations, planning ahead of time is super important. Check in you can have an SAT test in 10th grade. If you get a high score, you can apply for early admission. Talk to your school advisor to structure a plan to have as many AP classes as possible. Also, schools give importance to community services and High GPA ( the AP classes will help with that).
Talk to your school advisor now, when they are not ao busy
Congratulations, planning ahead of time is super important. Check in you can have an SAT test in 10th grade. If you get a high score, you can apply for early admission. Talk to your school advisor to structure a plan to have as many AP classes as possible. Also, schools give importance to community services and High GPA ( the AP classes will help with that).
Denise recommends the following next steps:
Thank you for giving me advice.
Norbert