Gearing up for Graduation and College!! (Should have been posted 10/7)

Good Morning!  Somehow I overlooked posting this blog last week when we reviewed our grades!!!  A few weeks ago we took a moment with our mentor to brainstorm goals for the future.  While it is fun to look to the future and envision our hopes and dreams, there are also specific requirements that exist to accomplish some of the goals you have expressed interest in achieving.  Above is an image that demonstrates one such example - the different requirements that have been established if you want to "graduate," attend a "CSU" or "UC."  Today's blog is going to be a bit longer than normal but I am going to ask you to really take a moment and analyze each of the questions posed below.  

• Question 1:  Do you think it's ever too early to start planning for High School Graduation/College?  Why or why not?  Why would starting to plan early important and/or how could it be helpful for you?
• Question 2:  What is the difference between a "California State University," the "University of California," and a "Private University?"  Describe the different requirements to get into these schools, a few examples of the schools that fall into each category, and which might appeal most to you from your knowledge of each and why it would appeal to you.  
• Question 3:  Based on your completion of the chart highlighting courses completed, what are you currently on track for?  Are you headed towards high school graduation?  CSU eligibility? UC eligibility?  Explain whether you are happy about your progress and what you can/want/have to do to accomplish your goals.  In particular, what courses do you need to take to be eligible for the school(s) you want to attend?  Do you feel like you still have time to get on the path you want to be on?
• Question 4: This week you will be taking the PSAT.  Why do you think the school has decided to offer this exam to every 10th and 11th grader at the school - keep in mind, this is not free!  We pay for each test given!  How does it benefit you? How does it benefit the school?  Why is taking full advantage of a test like this so important and how could it help you get into college?

Thanks for a thoughtful response.  While I will enjoy reading them, the post is even a better opportunity for you to reflect on where you stand academically and realize what your realistic goals are as you approach high school graduation and make college/career plans!