The road to college really starts the freshman year. You will live ahead of the pack if you stay away from these common mistakes freshmen make. Not all freshmen do these mistakes, but it is important to be aware of them so you don't hurt your school transcript or grade point average (GPA).

Keep in mind that your GPA means a lot while it comes to college admissions. The individual in control of your education and your future is you, not your professors, friends or parents. High school is an exciting, new and fun time and you have to certainly make the most of the experience. But remember that your senior year and college admissions would be upon you before you know it, and a little preparation early can go a long way. It is up to you to begin planning for college at this time and working on keeping your GPA high and your transcript impressive.

You should be starting to plan for college by avoiding the following mistakes-

Believing your freshman year does not actually count and you can improve your grades later-

If you slack off in your first year, it will be actually hard to catch up later. Don't forget that Your freshman year grades count toward your on the whole grade point average so far as your grades in later years and you want that GPA to be high to enhanced qualify you for college admissions.

Sacrificing your grades for your social life-

You must definitely try to have a rich social life in high school; however that does not mean you can't acquire good grades too. Good grades are your ticket to getting into great colleges and universities that in turn gives you more career choice and opportunities. Keep in mind that while high school may seem like forever, it is only four years, however the college you choose and your subsequent career affects the rest of your life.

Skipping classes and missing homework-

Professors share significant information throughout class and listening to their lectures helps you to better understand the subject. You never know what subjects would end up becoming your favourite or even your college major. Don't miss homework either -Homework assignments help you discover the subject matter better, that is not only important for your GPA, it can also help you when you take standardized tests like the ACT or SAT.

Failing to make up missed assignments-

A number of teachers are very reasonable in negotiating extra time for you to complete your homework, so only because it is late doesn't mean you shouldn't do it. It may cost you a few points, but that is better than a missed assignment on your record. There is a huge benefit in doing assignments, still if you are turning them in late- You are more likely to keep the material.

Assuming you are not doing well because the teacher "just doesn't like you."

Your future is your responsibility and you shouldn't let personal feelings interfere in your path to obtain the degree or career you want. You won't get along with everyone in life, but that's not an excuse to slack off or give up. If you are struggling with a subject, ask your professor for help, get tutoring or talk to your counsellor. Schools desire you to succeed if you are willing to do the work.

Not signing up for extracurricular activities-

Lots of students say they don't have time for extracurricular, but keep in mind that these activities can help both your social life and your college applications. While you start your search to find out a college, you will see that they look for well-rounded students who did additional activities along with a challenging academic program. The best careers nowadays are highly competitive and they require people to be able to multi-task. That doesn't mean you must sign up for every activity out there; just tries a few programs until you find ones you like. It is better to be dedicated and active in a few activities than to create little effort in several.

Deciding that high school is about dances, partying and sports not classes-

Big mistake. Although social activities are an important part of high school life, they must not be your main focus all through the school day. Your focus in high school must be learning, preparing for college by taking challenging classes and preparing yourself for college degrees and majors.

Not asking for help-

If you are having problems in school, there are numerous people out there who can help you: teachers, parents, friends and your school counsellor are all good sources for recommendation and assistance. Teachers and counsellors got into those professions due to their desire to help students succeed, and your parents and friends know you well and can help you weigh your options or just lend support when you require it.

Not asking questions in class-

They say the only stupid question is one that is not asked. You are not going to have all the answers, and you are not going to get them unless you are willing to ask questions. If you don't know something in class, it's probable other students don't understand it either.

Taking classes just because your friends are taking them-

It can be fun to be in all the identical classes as your friends, but it can also be a distraction. Also, your friends may have dissimilar interests, academic skills and college goals than you do. As a result if you are interested in classes that your friends are not, take them. You just may make some new friends, and you will be one step closer to getting into college of your dreams.