Tips for Middle and High School Students


It’s not too soon to start thinking about college. Even if college is still three or four years in your future you can – and should - get ready for it now.
A few things to think about:
Your Annual Plan to Get Ready for College
For success in college follow this year-by-year and step-by step plan
to get ready.You can also find some great tips in this Federal publication, the College Preparation Checklist.
Remember, the Grades You Get Now Are Important
- Take advanced courses.
- Get a well-rounded education
Learn how to Earn College Credit While You're Still in High School
Do you know the State of Michigan High School Graduation Requirements?
Careers: What Kinds of Jobs Interest You?
- Read about those jobs.
- Talk to someone you know who does that kind of work.
- Find out what college coursework you need.
- Get hands-on experience doing similar work. For example, volunteer somewhere. And when you’re old enough, try to find a job or internship that relates to your future career.
Choosing a College - Some Questions to Ask Yourself
- Do you want to stay close to home?
- Would you like to be on a large campus or a smaller one?
- Make a list of your favorite colleges. Do they offer the courses or
- majors you want? (At HFCC you can choose from more than
- 100 programs and areas of study.)
- What are the costs for tuition, books, housing? HFCC gives you a great education at an affordable cost.
- Does the school you're interested in have other activities you’d like – theatre and music, sports, clubs? At HFCC you could participate in dozens of clubs, act in a play or sing in a choir, or play on one of our intercollegiate or intramural sports teams.
- There's always something going on at HFCC.
Paying for College
- Talk about college costs with your parents.
- Will you need financial aid – loans, grants, scholarships?
- Learn about the different types of financial aid.
- More tips on paying for college.
Learn More on Michigan's KnowHow2GO Web site
Michigan's KnowHow2Go Web site has tips for students in grades 8-10 and their families. Click here to visit the Web site.

