In October our juniors and sophomores at MLC will take the PSAT (Preliminary SAT). Here are five steps to success for students to prepare for college:

1. Take Tough Courses.
In general, students should take

• 4 years of high school English
• 3-4 years of math (at least algebra and geometry)
• 3-4 years of science (at least one lab course)
• 2-4 years of history and social studies
• 2-4 years of foreign language

2. Take the PSAT/NMSQT (National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test).
The skills tested on this test are the skills you'll need in college. It lets you:

• assess your skills in critical reading, mathematical reasoning, and writing
• get specific suggestions on how to improve your skills
• compare your academic skills with those of other college-bound students
• practice for the SAT Reasoning Test
• enter scholarship competitions
• ask colleges to send you information
• get information about a college major of interest to you.

3. Prepare for College Work.

• Read. Read. Read.
• Write a lot-it's a critical college skill.
• Get involved in problem solving in your math and science classes.
• Go to the library, museums, aquariums-places to learn about literature, art, history, and science.

4. Think about you…
What subjects do you like to study? While in college, you'll choose a major to study in depth. Your major might be related directly to a career such as nursing or engineering. Or you might choose liberal arts, such as history, foreign languages, or social studies. Think about what interests you and what you do well as you plan for college and a career.


5. Find out more.
Talk to teachers and counselors about college, and ask older students about colleges they attend. Visit campuses near home.