Everyone’s high school experience is different, but there are opportunities during your high school years that help prepare you for college. Being involved in extra curriculums and finding opportunities outside of school will be instrumental to your education and personal journey.

Join Clubs, Teams, or Outreaches

Joining a club, team, or outreaches teaches how to work with others, build character, and make great friendships. You’ll build communication skills, learn how to think creatively, and gain life lessons. Being a part of different organizations keeps you well-rounded and looks good on college applications.

Start Your Portfolio

If you are a writer, photographer, artist, graphic designer- any type of creator- start building your portfolio. Have them in a binder or hard drive, or showcase them on a business website or Instagram. It’s good to have a portfolio because once you start looking for jobs or internships, you’ll already have things to share. It takes time to put everything together, so start making your portfolio when you can.

Have A Part-Time Job or Internship

Many students take up a part-time job or internship while in high school. Even if the part-time job isn’t in the field you’re interested in, the skills and experiences you’ll have will go a long way. It’s okay if you don’t have much work experience because managers know you’re in high school.

(If there is a major you’re interested in studying in college, find someone who works in that field and ask if you can shadow them or take a couple of minutes to answer your questions.)

Strengthen Your Skills

Strengthen your skills in high school and be open to learning new things. Learning new things will give you a range of skills that will benefit you and future jobs by adding them to your resume.

Learn New Things

High school is a fantastic time to try new things because you’re not committed to one specific program. You have the opportunity to take elective classes that will expand your learning experience and teach you new skills. These classes can introduce you to new interests and possibly a field you’re interested in studying in college.

Go On School Trips

If you have the opportunity to go on a school trip, go. Especially if the trips are to other cities or countries, these trips are worthwhile, will broaden your horizons, and inspire you. Students find school trips enjoyable and valuable in growing a passion, discovering a hobby, and finding interest in a career.

Take College Courses During Summer

Some junior and senior high schoolers take general classes at a community college to start earning college credit. This helps knock one class out by the time you are in college, which allows you to take other general classes or classes required for your major. Taking classes at a community college is cheaper and shorter, so if you have the time and means, consider taking college courses in the summer.

Connect With Prospective Colleges

If you have an idea of which colleges you’re interested in, start reaching out to recruiters, admissions counselors, and even program heads. You can do your research on their website, but speaking to someone gives you a personal perspective on the school and major of your choice. 

Check out our school website to learn more about PUC. If you have any questions, email admissions@puc.edu or call (800) 862-7080, option 2. We hope you consider PUC!