Middle School Steps to Uni

For middle school students, one of the biggest milestones in life–attending university–may seem like a distant prospect. However, it’s never too early to set yourself up for admissions success. By preparing now, you can hit the ground running from the start of high school. 

Ivy Option's 10 tips:

1. Organized study habits: This is something you will value your entire life. Establishing effective study habits allows you to stay on top of your schoolwork while also having enough time for other interests. To start, make it mandatory to record every assignment, project, and exam in a diary. Trying to memorize what’s due drains you mentally; writing it down frees energy that can be directed elsewhere. Study in blocks of 20 minutes, putting away all sources of distraction; allow yourself a 5-minute break. And then repeat. When it comes to exams, prepare an exam calendar and ensure you have all the study material several weeks in advance. Make notes on index cards, revising them two nights before the exam and again the night before. 

2. Manage your stress levels: Being a middle schooler can be challenging! Ensure you take time to regularly declutter your mind. Your routine should include time outdoors and some sort of physical activity: sports, a spinning class, or just a walk. Zoning out with a screen can be one way to relax, but shouldn’t be the only way.

3. Academics first: Make schoolwork your number one priority so that your academic foundation is solid. Get a tutor for any weaker subject areas. Always opt for higher rigor classes if you feel you can handle them. For example, if your school has different level math classes, you should speak up if you feel you could take on more advanced work. Universities love to see students challenge themselves through their classes as well as competitions and olympiads.

4. Plan your classes: In the middle to end of eighth grade, when choosing classes for high school, make sure you are thinking about the doors you want to keep open for yourself. Don’t be in a rush to drop a difficult subject area just because you can! While you might like the idea of not having to study physics anymore, if you discover you’re interested in engineering, you’ll need this required class.

5. Read and build your vocabulary: An increasingly important component of the university admissions process is SAT/ACT testing. Your performance on these will directly affect your college options. Studies have found that students who read regularly get better test scores on the verbal section. Make reading a regular part of your routine. Practicing vocabulary flashcards on the way to school will enhance your writing and comprehension skills as well as your future SAT/ACT score. 

6. Exposure to career options: Knowing “what you want to be when you grow up” can be challenging once you’ve realized that you can’t become a professional footballer! The best way to figure out your interests is by exposing yourself to as many different job profiles as possible. Shadow a parent or a family friend to work for the day. Listen to podcasts and stay on top of current events. Attend career fairs or talks given by professionals at your school. The more you learn about what’s out there, the more you can start identifying what excites you. If you’re still unsure in high school, there are psychometric career tests that you can take. Please contact info@ivyoptions.com for more information.

7. Extracurricular activities: Participating in activities is a key component in a student’s development. This doesn’t mean signing up for every sport and every committee. Selectively choose some extracurriculars you think you might enjoy to explore areas that intrigue you. Personal projects are also a great way to develop your interests, so start a blog, code a game, or build a prototype – whatever piques your curiosity! These activities can help you nurture your passions and bring your long-term goals into focus. 

8. Volunteer: Start giving back to the community early and continue throughout high school. Volunteer activities show universities that you are a compassionate and caring person. Admissions officers appreciate students who are invested in their communities and committed to helping others. 

9. College visits: If you are on holiday in a city where you might like to attend college, check out the campuses to get a feel for the environment. Are they  places where you can see yourself thriving? 

   
   

10. Choose your friends wisely: Iron sharpens iron; the people you spend time with will significantly influence your values, priorities, and mindset. Hang around those who inspire and support you.