Overcoming Obstacles

Overcoming Obstacles

1)      What if I am college bound, and don’t get a great 9th grade schedule?
Possible Solutions:

  1. Make sure you are taking English, Math, Foreign Language, History, and Social Studies starting in 9th grade.
  2. Try to take Biology and Algebra in 9th grade.
  3. If not, you may need to take some courses to catch up during the summer before or after 9th grade.

2)      What if I’ve run out of classes in certain content areas at my high school?
Possible Solutions:

  1. Find a way to continue at a local community college or online.
  2. Start a new language
  3. Take electives–such as Psychology or Anatomy

3)      What if I don’t like my teacher and/or my classes and I am getting low grades?
Possible Solutions:

  1. Remember, colleges don’t see problems with teachers. They just see your transcript, so get a tutor, seek help from the teacher.
  2. Try to switch to another section.
  3. Do not give up. Push yourself.

4)      What if I am not in a college prep academy?
Possible Solutions:

  1. Go talk to your counselor to add the right classes.
  2. PE doesn’t count for college admissions.
  3. Use your summers to take the additional classes.
  4. Use community colleges.

5)      What if I don’t take school seriously in 9th or 10th grade?
Possible Solutions:

  1. It’s never too late.
  2. Colleges look for upward progress
  3. Retake classes you got Ds in.
  4. Use the summers to advance.
  5. If it’s too late, community colleges are a great possibility.

6)      What if my first language isn’t English and I’m having trouble with my English classes?
Possible Solutions:

  1. Remember, the more you read and write the better.
  2. Find an English teacher at your school who will tutor you.
  3. Find a tutoring center in your neighborhood.
  4. Read, read, read books that you like and that push you.
  5. Take acting, pubic speaking, or debate classes. They help with speaking and confidence.