If you’re like most high school students, you’re probably wondering which electives to take in order to improve your chances of getting into the college of your dreams. Admissions counselors are always looking for well-rounded students, so it’s important to choose classes that will show them that you’re capable of handling the challenges of college coursework. In this blog post, we will discuss the best electives that will help you get into the college of your dreams!
Electives can be a great way to show admissions counselors that you’re capable of handling college coursework. Here are 9 electives that will help you get into the college of your dreams:
1. Advanced Placement classes: Taking AP classes can show admissions counselors that you’re ready for college-level coursework. In addition to preparing you for college, AP classes can also help you earn college credits before you even start school! You can learn more about AP classes on The College Board’s website here.
2. College prep courses: Taking college prep courses can help you prepare for the rigors of college academics. These classes can include topics like study skills, time management, and test-taking strategies, and depend on the high school as to what is offered. College prep courses can be taken in high school or at a local community college. Don’t forget that test prep courses are typically offered at the high school level, which can boost ACT and SAT scores.
3. Foreign language classes: Learning a foreign language can demonstrate your ability to handle complex academic tasks. It’s obvious why foreign language is important, colleges might also require it. Most colleges want to see that you have taken courses in different areas and have broadened your global perspective.
4. Honors classes: Taking honors classes can show admissions counselors that you’re capable of achieving high grades. However, make sure you are able to get a good grade in honors courses – admissions counselors will be looking for excellence in all of your classes. While taking challenging classes is important, don’t sacrifice your GPA in the process. Make sure you are able to get good grades in all of your classes, including honors and AP courses.
5. Mathematics classes: You might not like math classes, but STEM courses are very important. A strong background in mathematics and science shows that you are able to think critically and solve problems, which is essential for many college majors. So even if you don’t like math, it’s important to stick with it and get a good grade. If you really struggle with math, you might consider taking it as a dual credit option to get it out of the way before moving on to higher education.
6. Science classes: Science classes can show admissions counselors that you have a strong interest in academic disciplines like biology, chemistry, and physics. Again, STEM courses are important in today’s society.
7. Social studies classes: Social studies classes can showcase your interest in history, politics, and sociology.
8. Classes in the arts: Theater arts classes can demonstrate your creativity and artistic abilities. Creativity is a key component of college admissions. Admissions counselors are looking for students who are not only academically talented but also creative and expressive. That’s why it’s important to choose electives that showcase your creative side.
Some great electives that can demonstrate your creativity include:
– Art classes
– Music classes
– Theater arts classes
– Creative writing classes
9. Computer science classes: Computer science classes can show admissions counselors that you have an interest in technology and engineering fields.
10. Classes that show your interests. Admissions counselors are looking for students who have interests in a variety of fields and who are not just focused on academics. That’s why it’s important to choose electives that showcase your interests and hobbies, although this category should be approached with caution (i.e. don’t let it disperse the story you are trying to get across in the admissions process).
Some great electives that can demonstrate your interests include:
– Sports classes
– Martial arts classes
– Cooking classes
– Photography classes
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