Your post-high school years hold tremendous promise

At college you’ll have the opportunity to make new friends, follow your interests and — hopefully— find a satisfying career. However, nearly half of all students who enter college fail to graduate with a bachelor’s degree within six years.

“There are two reasons why kids flunk out,” said Amy Thompson, a counselor at York Community High School (IL). “They are either academically unprepared or they are emotionally unprepared.”

Increase your chances for success by making the most out of your high school years.

Taking rigorous classes in high school doesn’t only help you get into college, the knowledge and skills you acquire prepare you to be successful in your pursuit of a degree. Seek out honors, Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses in subjects that interest you.

Look for courses that require lots of writing and critical thinking—two skills you’ll be asked to use in almost every college class. Don’t panic if the material seems difficult at first. Developing good study habits and time-management skills in high school can help you persevere in college.

Some rigorous courses actually allow you to jumpstart your postsecondary education. Students who do well on AP tests, for example, can earn college credit. Some high schools also partner with local colleges to offer dual-credit courses for high school students.

From athletics to theater to volunteer work—there’s a whole world of extracurricular activities open to high school students.

“It can be overwhelming,” Thompson said. “But the one piece of advice I give students is don’t just join something to pad your resume. Pick something you’re genuinely interested in.”

Universities are looking for students who will make the most of the opportunities available to them. A high school record that includes extracurricular activities helps show admission officers that you’ll be a valuable part of their campus community.

It can be tempting to sluff off in the classroom, but stay focused. Senior year grades and courses still count.

“You need to maintain your academic performance, and do at least as well—if not better—because you don’t want to have your admission offer rescinded,” Thompson said.

“A strong finish in your senior year helps make you a more attractive candidate,” said Thompson.