We can probably assume that you don’t want to be in college forever. You want to be out in the workforce, using your degree and changing the world! Here are a few pitfalls to avoid and tips to staying on track!
Avoid the “Summer Melt”
You may have heard college admissions professionals talk about “summer melt”. This is what happens when, over the course of the summer, students lose the motivation they had in the Spring, and without the support of their high school counselors, stumble when registering for classes or applying for aid.
Navigating the college landscape can be daunting and completing all the paperwork can become a deal-breaker for some. But guess what? Your college has staff members who are there to help! These team members are trained and ready to help students get through the process. Reach out! Ask for help! You don’t have to go it alone!
Start Early with a Summer Course
Use your summer wisely! Yes, you will want to work and save money for the fall but taking a summer course will pay off in the long run.
Benefits of taking a summer course include:
- A summer course will give you the experience of a college course, preparing you for the fall.
- Getting a course you were going to take in the fall out of the way so that you can carry a lighter course load in the fall. This will let you have more time to study, work or support your family during the fall semester.
- Take a course you know will be hard for you in the summer – you’ll have more time to focus on it and get tutoring.
- Graduate sooner! Getting those credits done in the summer will pay off when you finish college a semester sooner.
Start Even Earlier – in High School
If you are a high school student, you could begin earning college credit while in school. Some advanced placement (AP) classes offered in high schools can be counted towards your college degree. In Massachusetts, vocational high school credits can be transferred to community colleges as well.
Many high schools also offer early college programming. Dual enrollment allows high school students to take college courses – earning college and high school credits simultaneously. Many early college programs are free for students – so you not only get ahead, you save money too!
Mount Wachusett Community College offers its student’s academic and personal support to help keep students on track and motivated. If summer rolls around and you are feeling like you are losing motivation, give us a call and our team can help keep you on track!