What is College Readiness?

College is an exciting journey of academic exploration, personal growth, and newfound independence. But before you dive in, it’s crucial to build a strong foundation of skills and mindsets that will help you thrive in this new environment. While opinions may differ to some degree, let’s explore the essential elements of what is universally understood as “college readiness.”

Academic Preparedness

• Critical Thinking and Analysis: Go beyond memorization. Develop the ability to think critically, analyze information, and form your own opinions.
• Strong Writing Skills: Communicate effectively in essays, research papers, and various assignments.
• Independent Learning: Take ownership of your learning. Embrace new challenges, seek out resources, and navigate unfamiliar subjects confidently.
• Time Management: Balance a demanding schedule, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines effectively.

Personal Development

• Emotional Intelligence: Manage stress, communicate effectively, and build healthy relationships with peers, professors, and mentors.
• Resilience: Bounce back from setbacks, learn from mistakes, and persevere through challenges.
• Growth Mindset: Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn, develop grit, and never give up on your goals.

Essential Life Skills

• Budgeting: Track expenses, make smart financial decisions, and avoid unnecessary debt.
• Independent Living: Cook, clean, handle everyday tasks responsibly and manage your own health/well-being.
• Technology Proficiency: Use essential software, research tools, online platforms, and manage your digital footprint effectively.

Appreciating Diversity

• College is not one-size-fits-all: Embrace different learning styles, life experiences, and perspectives. Learn how to interact with different personalities, cultures and ideas. 
• Find your own path: Trust that your unique skills and strengths will contribute to your success. Celebrate what makes you different and find ways to use it as a strength. 

Get College-Ready

These essential elements of college readiness along with other Executive Functioning skills are critical for college success. Students who possess strong executive functioning skills are much better equipped to navigate the demands of higher education, handle the increased workload, manage stress, reduce school-related anxiety, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and succeed academically and beyond. Unfortunately, most high schools don’t teach these essential academic and life skills in an explicit and structured way that follows evidence-based coaching strategies. 

That’s why we created Beyond High School (BHS). Beyond High School a 2-week college readiness course designed to equip students with a set of essential executive functioning skills needed for successful navigation of college life. 

Keep in mind that college readiness is about building a solid foundation, not about perfection. Embrace the journey, celebrate challenges, and trust that with effort and self-belief, you’ll unlock your full potential and thrive in the exciting world of college.

Written by BJ McIntyre, Director of Education at Strategies for Learning

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