Reply to What do I need to do over the next 6 years to get my child into a top school?

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[quote=Anonymous]You aren't starting too early.  Middle School in the US is a critical point at which children fall off the college-going path.  Ideally your child should take Algebra in the 8th grade at the latest.  The more math a young person takes, the more likely they will graduate from college.  Be aware that some middle school classes might be considered high school classes by the county and the grades will go toward the High school GPA.  They can be expunged, but it is tough.  Take as many AP classes as your child is comfortable with and take the exams; or enroll in an IB program for the IB diploma, which is actually better if you want to go abroad.  Extracurricular activities--playing in the band, choir, theater, sports--are a must.  However, choose two or three things at most and get as much out of them as possible.  Don't spread yourself too thin or overload on activities.  These activities often start before middle school but the engagement intensifies.  Encourage your child to explore as well--perhaps they want to learn a language so a summer abroad might be good.  Or perhaps an unusual summer job at a local Garden club. I know someone who interviews Europeans for MIT and always feels bad for them because unless they have something stellar in their back pocket, they don't have the extra-curriculars to get in.  Also, go visit University campuses.  See Georgetown or drive to Philly and visit Penn.  Go visit schools starting now so they can get a feel for different campuses.

Also, do consider foreign universities.  Europe in general is good but Germany particularly has excellent universities and they have free degree programs in English.  Canada also has great schools.

I think you as a parent should also define what a good school is: Do you mean Ivy league or would you be okay with UVA or Michigan?  Or a small liberal arts college like Oberlin or Wesleyan? This will help you guide your child.    [/quote]

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