3 answers
Bri
Student
New Port Richey, Florida
1
Question
Asked
318 views
College prep?
How do I prepare for college? Senior year is approaching, which means college tours, meetings, and applications. I don't know where to begin with it all. I know what I want to go to school for (marine biology) but I don't know what steps to take to get me there.
Login to comment
3 answers
Tiarra Hill
Teacher
40
Answers
Chattanooga, Tennessee
Updated
Tiarra’s Answer
You're at a good start because you already know what you want to study. Okay, it's time to look at some colleges. Begin at local colleges, both community colleges and 4-yewr universities. While you do this, improve or maintain your grades in high school and improve your writing schools, as you will need tonwrite an introductory paragraph ornessay during college applications; this is usually an introduction of yourself and an explanation of why you chose a college and its program.
Fill out the FAFSA once you decide what colleges you are interested in, because you can list those colleges on the FAFSA and at the end you will discover what state and federal aid (scholarships and grants).
Here is a link to the FAFSA:
https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa
Here is a link to the colleges that offer marine biology degrees in Florida:
https://www.niche.com/colleges/search/best-colleges-with-marine-biology-and-oceanography/s/florida/
Fill out the FAFSA once you decide what colleges you are interested in, because you can list those colleges on the FAFSA and at the end you will discover what state and federal aid (scholarships and grants).
Here is a link to the FAFSA:
https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa
Here is a link to the colleges that offer marine biology degrees in Florida:
https://www.niche.com/colleges/search/best-colleges-with-marine-biology-and-oceanography/s/florida/
Nicolas McKissack
Independent artist
72
Answers
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Updated
Nicolas’s Answer
Don't worry! A lot of youth don't know the steps at all, and this is because no one is teaching them these. To move forward you have to do a lot of things, but not so many that it's overwhelming. First, request a transcript be delivered to your house from your highschool. Match what's on the transcript (GPA) with GPAs that colleges are accepting when you look on the internet. Once you have a list of these colleges that your GPA is accepted to, read about the college, and figure out which one's programs and extra curricular interest you most. When you have an idea about the college's history, themes, and what they have to offer make a choice. Then start the application process by going to the application link on the college's website. You will want to read and interpret what the college is asking for in the application (materials section). It will be a step by step process that includes personal information like where you live etc. And it will ask you to upload documents. You want to again request your highschool send a second transcript to the preferred schools. In the future go to nationalstudentclearinghouse.org to send official transcripts to the office of college admissions. When you continue the application it will ask for a personal statement, paper on a specific topic, and references (maybe even a resume). Submit this information to all colleges you're interested in by the college's deadlines.
Write a personal statement about what the college asks
Request official transcripts from your highschool (in the future nationalstudentclearinghouse)
Write a paper about a topic the college asks about
Create a resume
Pick an affordable school
Nicolas recommends the following next steps:
Julianna Huckaby
Home Manager
1
Answer
Cary, North Carolina
Updated
Julianna’s Answer
Preparing for college can feel overwhelming, however, with some planning and organization, you can navigate this process effectively. Here are some steps to help you prepare for college and pursue your passion for marine biology:
Meet with School Counselors: Set up meetings with your school counselor to discuss your college plans. They can provide valuable guidance on college selection, application requirements, and financial aid options.
Research Colleges and Programs: Begin by researching colleges and universities that offer strong marine biology programs. Look for schools with reputable faculty, research opportunities, and facilities that align with your academic and career goals.
Visit College Campuses: Schedule college tours to visit the campuses of the schools you're interested in. This will give you a firsthand look at the facilities, student life, and atmosphere of each institution, helping you determine if it's the right fit for you.
Take Required Standardized Tests: Find out if the colleges you're interested in require standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Plan and register for these tests accordingly to give yourself enough time for preparation and retakes if needed.
Seek Letters of Recommendation: Ask teachers, counselors, or mentors for letters of recommendation. Choose individuals who know you well and can speak to your academic achievements, character, and passion for marine biology.
Write an Impressive Personal Statement: Craft a compelling personal statement that highlights your interest in marine biology, your experiences, and your goals. This is an opportunity to showcase your personality and passion to college admissions officers.
Apply for Financial Aid and Scholarships: Look into financial aid options and scholarships to help with college expenses. Many schools and organizations offer scholarships specifically for students pursuing STEM fields like marine biology.
Submit College Applications on Time: Carefully follow each college's application guidelines and submit your applications before the deadlines.
Explore Extracurricular Opportunities: Engage in extracurricular activities related to marine biology, such as joining a science club, volunteering at marine conservation organizations, or participating in research projects.
Attend College Fairs and Information Sessions: Take advantage of college fairs and information sessions where you can learn more about various colleges and their marine biology programs.
Stay Organized: Keep track of application deadlines, required documents, and important dates using a planner or digital tools. Staying organized will help ensure you don't miss any critical steps.
Remember, it's okay to ask for help along the way. Seek advice from teachers, counselors, or even students currently studying marine biology. Their insights and experiences can be invaluable as you prepare for college and pursue your passion for marine biology. Good luck on your college journey!
Meet with School Counselors: Set up meetings with your school counselor to discuss your college plans. They can provide valuable guidance on college selection, application requirements, and financial aid options.
Research Colleges and Programs: Begin by researching colleges and universities that offer strong marine biology programs. Look for schools with reputable faculty, research opportunities, and facilities that align with your academic and career goals.
Visit College Campuses: Schedule college tours to visit the campuses of the schools you're interested in. This will give you a firsthand look at the facilities, student life, and atmosphere of each institution, helping you determine if it's the right fit for you.
Take Required Standardized Tests: Find out if the colleges you're interested in require standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Plan and register for these tests accordingly to give yourself enough time for preparation and retakes if needed.
Seek Letters of Recommendation: Ask teachers, counselors, or mentors for letters of recommendation. Choose individuals who know you well and can speak to your academic achievements, character, and passion for marine biology.
Write an Impressive Personal Statement: Craft a compelling personal statement that highlights your interest in marine biology, your experiences, and your goals. This is an opportunity to showcase your personality and passion to college admissions officers.
Apply for Financial Aid and Scholarships: Look into financial aid options and scholarships to help with college expenses. Many schools and organizations offer scholarships specifically for students pursuing STEM fields like marine biology.
Submit College Applications on Time: Carefully follow each college's application guidelines and submit your applications before the deadlines.
Explore Extracurricular Opportunities: Engage in extracurricular activities related to marine biology, such as joining a science club, volunteering at marine conservation organizations, or participating in research projects.
Attend College Fairs and Information Sessions: Take advantage of college fairs and information sessions where you can learn more about various colleges and their marine biology programs.
Stay Organized: Keep track of application deadlines, required documents, and important dates using a planner or digital tools. Staying organized will help ensure you don't miss any critical steps.
Remember, it's okay to ask for help along the way. Seek advice from teachers, counselors, or even students currently studying marine biology. Their insights and experiences can be invaluable as you prepare for college and pursue your passion for marine biology. Good luck on your college journey!