As a homeschool graduate who has successfully gone on to college, there are several things you need to know. These skills can be broken into academic and life categories. So, here are six things you should teach your high schoolers if they plan on going to college! 

Life Skills

Time Management

Time management is crucial for college success. Students will balance multiple responsibilities, including classes, homework, part-time jobs, and any extracurricular activities. Without planning and organization, deadlines can quickly pile up, leading to stress and lower academic performance. Students who can prioritize tasks, create schedules, and allocate enough time for studying are more likely to stay organized, meet deadlines, and maintain a healthy balance between academic and personal life.

Financial Literacy

Financial literacy is essential in college as students begin to manage their own finances, handle student loans, and make monetary decisions that impact their future. Understanding concepts like budgeting, saving, and responsible spending helps students avoid unnecessary debt and develop long-term financial stability. Those who are financially literate can better allocate resources to cover tuition, books, and living expenses while also planning for emergencies or future goals.

Communication Skills

Strong communication skills are vital in college, enabling students to articulate their thoughts effectively in written and verbal forms. Whether participating in class discussions, emailing professors, or collaborating on group projects, clear communication fosters better relationships and minimizes misunderstandings. Additionally, developing these skills prepares students for professional environments where they will need to convey ideas and information confidently.

Technological Proficiency

Technological proficiency is a necessity in modern college environments, as students must navigate learning management systems, online research tools, and digital platforms for coursework. Many classes require the use of software for writing, presentations, or data analysis, making it important to be comfortable with various technologies. Beyond academics, tech-savvy students are better prepared for the job market, where digital literacy is a highly valued skill.

Academic Skills

How to Study

Effective study habits are critical for success in college, as they help students retain information and perform well on exams. Many homeschool students have not needed to study throughout their educational careers, and they may struggle in college. To study efficiently, students should first create a dedicated, distraction-free study environment where they can focus. Second, they should practice active learning techniques, such as summarizing material in their own words, using flashcards, or teaching concepts to others. Third, breaking study sessions into manageable chunks using techniques like the Pomodoro method can help maintain focus and prevent burnout.

Research Skills

Strong research skills are essential for academic success, particularly when writing essays or completing research projects. To excel, students should start by learning how to find credible sources through academic databases like JSTOR or Google Scholar, avoiding unreliable websites. Second, understanding how to correctly cite sources in styles like APA, MLA, or Chicago is crucial to avoid plagiarism, and it will demonstrates professionalism in your writing. Third, students should develop the ability to create an organized outline before writing essays, which helps them present arguments logically and integrate evidence effectively.

Alyson Bailey is a homeschool graduate of 2023. Despite never being in a traditional school setting, she is currently in her sophomore year of college. She is grateful for the opportunity to work with the Southeast Homeschool Expo and share her story while hopefully helping other homeschool families.