Get an early start on college - Programs prepare sixth-graders for university life
By: STACY BRANDT - Staff Writer | ∞
It's never too early to start thinking about college, according to local coordinators of a national college-preparatory program.
By beginning the search for a university and major as soon as middle school, students can increase their options and likelihood of getting the education they want, said Zachary Butalid, outreach coordinator for the GEAR UP program at Lincoln Middle School in Vista.
"If you plan early enough, then you open the doors up to a lot more options than if you didn't plan early," he said.
Even in middle school, students' choice of elective classes can help get them on the right track for success in high school and eventually college by preparing them for higher-level classes, Butalid said.
Because there are many options for higher education, getting students to think about their future early can help them decide what they want, whether it be a military academy, vocational school or technical school.
As early as sixth grade, students can start to prepare for college by participating in programs such as AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination), and GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs).
GEAR UP is a program that follows students from sixth grade through high school, offering services to not only the students but their parents. The program is intended to work as a bridge, encouraging low-income and minority students to attend a four-year college, through field trips and specialized instruction.
AVID focuses on preparing students who are receiving average grades for a four-year university by helping students prepare notes and develop healthy study skills.
To get children into a college-bound mind-set, it can be helpful for middle-school students and even elementary-age children to tour college campuses.
"Going onto college campuses sets the tone," Butalid said. "A lot of the students we work with, they've never stepped foot on a college campus."
Contact staff writer Stacy Brandt at (760) 631-6622 or sbrandt@nctimes.com. Comment at nctimes.com.
www.ed.gov/gearup
www.avidonline.org
www.californiacolleges.edu
www.nacacnet.org/MemberPortal/ForStudents
www.collegeboard.com
www.bppve.ca.gov
www.geteducated.com
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