Forbes Gives Warning to Start Preparing Earlier for Top College Admissions in Light of Record-Breaking Selectivity. Here’s what they have to say.

As Ivy League colleges continue to experience historic lows in acceptance rates, with Harvard and Stanford nearing just 3%, Forbes states the college admissions process now begins earlier than ever before—starting the very first day of high school. Although it may seem like applying to college is a distant concern for high school freshmen, the reality is that students must start building their college application profile from their very first day of high school.

To prepare for the competitive college admissions landscape, Forbes states parents can help their students embark on their high school journey with their college aspirations in mind. However, this doesn't mean that students' high school years should be solely focused on academics. Experts argue that play should be incorporated into students’ high school years more—not less. Freshman year, in particular, should be about discovering what students truly enjoy. Colleges and universities are looking for students who have a clear sense of purpose, guiding passion, and hands-on experiences that demonstrate their interests and serve their communities.

To become such applicants, students must explore a variety of classes, activities, clubs, and organizations, and most importantly, have fun. Parents can encourage their students to take different classes and participate in numerous activities while asking questions that help students identify their interests and passions. Parents can ask questions like, "What excites you about this club/activity/topic?" or "What types of things do you do as a part of that club/organization and which do you enjoy most?" to guide their children in choosing activities more intentionally throughout their high school careers.

Likewise, students should be curious and seek to explore academic subjects they find most engaging. They can ask teachers and fellow students about advanced courses they might be well-suited for and enroll in those courses for their sophomore year. Students may also talk with their teachers about attending pre-college programs the summer after their freshman year to deepen their understanding of the topic of interest outside of the classroom.

In addition to academic pursuits, students should form relationships with teachers, coaches, school counselors, and older students. Befriending upperclassmen can expose younger students to unique perspectives and help them shape the way they pursue their interests and select advanced courses. First-year teachers will be a helpful resource in planning the trajectory of a student’s coursework, helping them identify academic organization and opportunities related to their subject of interest, and developing helpful study skills to carry into more advanced coursework. Likewise, getting to know their school's college counselor early in their high school career will help students establish a solid foundation for their entire high school career.

In conclusion, Forbes states freshman year of high school is a season of novelty and discovery for students and families alike. It's essential to approach this transition intentionally to lay the foundation for a standout college admissions profile and future success.