Entering high school, many wonder what they should begin doing to prepare for college. There’s always the question of “is it too early to start?” Thankfully, there are some seniors, juniors, and sophomores who have shared their opinions on college prep and how to begin.

“I started college prep when I was three years old, my parents would always talk about it and I thought it was cool that I could go anywhere I wanted and study whatever I wanted. I’m not saying that everyone should start that early but that was the path I began on,” said sophomore Ryleigh Money, “beginning preparation early really helped when I got to high school, I never feel like I don’t have a plan, I don’t have to deal with that uncertainty when I graduate,” she continued.

Money says before every test she studies for hours. One of the many things she suggests doing for college prep is the practice PSAT’s. She takes all AP and honors classes, and has regular meetings with guidance counselors to make sure she is doing everything colleges look for. After high school, she wants to attend either Harvard, Yale, or UVA. “I know these colleges have very low acceptance rates, that’s why if you want the best, you have to try your best,” Money explained.

“I believe it is very important for sophomores to begin planning their futures right now, especially if they are planning on going to college, because in a little more than two years we are going to have to make theses decisions, it’s better to be prepared for what could happen and have a solid plan then go in blind,” said Money.

Emmalyn Whyte is currently a junior at FCHS. Since she started high school she’s done many college tours, she said this helps her know what she is looking for in a college. “I’ve done a lot of tours just to see what might suit me. Everyone is different, so find what you think would fit you best,” she said.

Emmalyn is currently taking a few of the PVCC classes offered at FCHS. “Taking PVCC classes is very beneficial, it gives you more time to focus on your major when you get to college. Colleges also look at that kind of stuff, they want to know if you challenge yourself and how you overcome things.”

Whyte agrees with Money when it comes to starting to prep for college. “I think students should start preparing as soon as possible, no pressure but it’s definitely a good idea to look around to see what you like,” Whyte said.

Like many upperclassmen, Whyte wishes she had begun preparations earlier, she believes taking high school more seriously is very important if you want to reach your goals.

“Look now. You don’t have to know exactly what you want but start figuring out what you don’t want, it makes it a lot easier,” said Whyte when asked what sophomores should start doing to prepare, “don’t be scared to ask question and get help from adults, they’ve been through it before and know more than you do.”

Another student at FCHS, senior Karsyn Botkin, is preparing for her final months of high school. Throughout the past four years, Karsyn has taken several AP classes. “At the time, I hated all of the classes, they were very challenging, but now that it’s almost over I’m so unbelievably glad I did everything I did. I feel confident I have a good chance of being accepted into my dream college, UVA, and I feel prepared for difficult situations that I wouldn’t know how to handle if I hadn’t already been put through them,” said Botkin. “I am a little concerned about how my GPA will look at the end of the year, but I know that’s everyone’s concern and if I keep doing what I’m doing everything should stay on track.”

Botkin strongly suggests students do a lot of research on FAFSA for financial aid. “Many kids, including myself, don’t have funds for college, so it’s important to get as much information as possible on scholarships and financial aid so you can be ready,” she said.

Botkin explained that while high school can be a lot of work, don’t spend the whole time rushing. “High school may be stressful, but don’t get overwhelmed, don’t rush through everything because time flies, once you graduate you’ll never be with these people again.”

Money, Whyte, and Botkin all believe in working hard in school, and always trying your best. “Just try. Really focus on your classes and what you need for college, don’t wait around until the last minute to try because it’ll come faster than you expect,” said Botkin.

College prep may be overwhelming for students but many say talking to a guidance counselor and making a good plan can help with the stress. The most important thing to remember is don’t overdo it.