The misconception about being "College Ready" is that it is based on academic scores alone.
What is College Readiness in Math? What does this even mean?
When a student graduates from high school, there needs to be a way to determine whether a student is ready for college level mathematics. In Texas, we have the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment, which test students in reading, writing, and mathematics to see if they are ready for college level courses. With these assessments, there are chances for exemptions (check the list of exemptions to see if you or your future college student qualifies). The misconception about being "College Ready" is that it is based on academic scores alone.
College Readiness requires a lot more than an academic score. Those scores are important and I have some sessions to help with scores. However, it is more than that. College is a true step into independence and that can throw a student off track. Take note of a few tips I want to share with you about college readiness.
Mentally Prepared
College can have a mental stain on students due to the amount of work and the pressure that's placed on you. You could experience anything from exhaustions to imposture syndrome to anxiety. Also, the college experience can be overwhelming because the World outside of college does not STOP. The world just keeps turning: bills are due, family may get sick, friends need you, family need you, employer needs you, and so many other events happening in life. Just know you are not the only one feeling the pressure of the world, it is common. Understanding this is part of the process will help tremendously.
To help my students and myself, I find my personal inspiration. Find your motivation. When you are thinking about this inspiration, be specific about the 'why'. Write this down somewhere save to always go back to when those tough times come in your academic journey (because they will come). There is a scene from one of my favorite shows, A Different World, where Colonel Taylor (Math Professor) was talking to a previous student about finding his inspiration before being deported in the military. Powerful Scene and it always made me think about my personal inspiration to continue my journey. (Scene provided by The Hillman Files)
Academic Buddies
Find your Academic Buddies! Academic Buddies are people that are just as driven as you are in completing their college goals. You will be amazed how much a circle of friends, with the same Academic Swag as you, can help. Having genuine friends that push you when times get tough, that's an underestimated value to a student. Start a GroupMe group with a small circle, check on each other daily. Joining a club can help you find those people (because you share the same interest) or network with your classmates (networking is important in college to learn about people).
Physically Prepared
Eat Right and Exercise! Self-Explanatory. But being independent for the first time means you can do what you want. You can pick your meals and you can do what you want with your free time. It's a learning curve, but choose your meals and extra curricular activities wisely. Learn to cook and try to get a 20 minute workout in 3-4 times a week. It helps your brain believe it or not. :-)
All-Recipes and My Fitness Pal are some good resources.
Don't be afraid to talk to someone if times get too hard. Counselors are here and trained to help; they understand how we react to situations and they know how to help balance our minds. Talk to someone. Most colleges have free counselors that students can talk to or find one off campus.
Academically Prepared
Last week, I posted a list of items I felt would help a student be prepared for college academically, especially in a math class. Please take moment and read those suggestions if you haven't already. Top 5 Items a College Students Needs
If you are taking a college math class, make sure you have the fundamentals of that class understood. For an example, a College Algebra class needs to have a clear understanding of Solving Linear Equations, Factoring Polynomials, and Solving Quadratic Equations (each topic listed has a video to show you how to do it). If you have those topics mastered, you are in great shape to start College Algebra. If you are taking a different math class, email the professor and simply ask "What topics should I know BEFORE I start your class?" This shows the instructor you are proactive and it encourages you to stay motivated.
If you are a student that need to take the TSI before Fall 2022 begins, come do my tutoring sessions called TSI Prep. This session is limited to 15 students simply because I want to answer individual questions and focus on individual needs. The details are below, including Sign Up.
TS1 Prep - College Readiness Evaluation
(Virtual Prep Session, Limited Seating for better Focused Assistance)
2-Day TSI Prep Session
Tuesday, August 16, 2022 to Wednesday, August 17, 2022
4:00pm - 6:00pm CST (session will be recorded to share with those signed up, in case they need to miss any parts)
To Sign Up: https://linktr.ee/DrAIC54 and Find the TSI Prep Sign Up Link
Hope this post has helped in some way... Until Next Time :-)
~Dr. AIC
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