Achieving College Readiness Across all Demographics
College readiness depends largely on opportunity, and it’s important to ensure that students from diverse backgrounds have equal access to opportunity. A first-generation college student, or one coming from an economically challenging situation, may have different college readiness needs than a student from a long line of college graduates.
Achieving college readiness for all students requires an integrated approach from educators and administration, with a focus on providing equal development opportunities for students of all readiness levels.
For students who don’t have the same opportunities at home – and even for those who do – educators and college counselors play a very important role in the development of key skills. A student who wishes to attend college will very often be ready to put in the necessary work, but may need help identifying which skills to work on and how to improve them.
- The Center for College Readiness, run by Minnesota state colleges and universities, aims to connect high school students to college instructors who will help them prepare. The service is available to all students, not just those who live in Minnesota, and it all takes place online.
- Online resources provide many benefits, but only if the student knows where to find them and has access to a stable internet connection. Educators can work to establish regular internet access opportunities, and teach students to make the most of their time online.
- Creating a culture that empowers students by presenting college as an attainable objective is also key. When young students consistently see seniors moving on to college after graduation, the goal seems much more within reach.
- While reading, writing, math, and science take center stage, time management is also an important skill to teach prospective college students. The most crucial points of the college admissions calendar, like application deadlines, letters of recommendation requests, etc. , are much easier to navigate with a clear plan of action.
- One of the biggest challenges with college readiness is identifying which skills to work on and measuring progress over long-term periods. Integrated data systems, which track student progress as they move through each level of the education system, are an increasingly popular solution that offers real promise.
There is no one-size-fits-all solution for college readiness. It takes a collective effort at every level of education, along with a willingness to grow and adapt. Every student has unique readiness needs, and first-generation college students are especially vulnerable to entering post-secondary education unprepared. By helping students understand those needs, develop the necessary skills, and track progress over time, high school counselors can make sure all students are prepared to make the most of their college experience.
Kathie Boozer is the founder and president of Explore Colleges, a premier college group tour operator. Explore Colleges’ customized tours help students experience the unique cultures, environments, and opportunities on each campus and inspire them to follow their dreams. Contact Kathie at kboozer@explorecolleges.org
