High School Predictors of College Success: Grades, Extracurriculars, and More
The journey from high school to college marks a critical transition in a student's academic life. Multiple factors contribute to a student's performance in college, with some indicators being more reliable than others. This article explores the best predictors of how a high school student will perform in college, focusing on course difficulty, GPA, extracurricular activities, and personal skills.
Course Difficulty and GPA
The difficulty of the courses a student takes and their overall GPA are often considered the most straightforward indicators of future academic success. However, these factors alone are not always the most reliable predictors. A high GPA, for example, can reflect a range of factors, including the rigor of the coursework and even social class advantages.
In a report by the University of California system, researchers examined over 80,000 students who entered the system between 1996 and 1999. They found that high school grades were at least as strong a predictor of cumulative college grades as they were of first-year college grades. This indicates that the foundation laid in high school remains crucial for long-term academic success.
Extracurricular Activities and Personal Skills
While course difficulty and GPA are important, other factors, such as extracurricular activities and personal skills, significantly influence college success.
Time Management and Organizational Skills:
Effective time management and organizational skills are often overlooked but are crucial for academic success in college. Having these skills can greatly reduce stress and improve overall performance. For instance, many high school activities, such as sports and advanced classes, help develop these skills. Activities like the AMC (American Mathematics Competitions), AIME (American Invitational Mathematics Examination), and programs like the Intel Science Talent Search can also provide a preview of the demanding environment of college.
Exceptional Performance in Extracurriculars:
Some high school activities stand out due to their rigorous standards and the depth of individual performance required. For example, participating in competitions and rare extracurriculars like the AMC, AIME, Intel Science Talent Search, and other Olympiads can signal a student's potential success in college. Students in these programs often receive unique opportunities and develop exceptional skills that enhance their college applications.
Access to Resources and Support:
Being aware of and utilizing available resources is another essential predictor of college success. Students who understand how to access and utilize academic resources are more likely to succeed. This includes tutors, academic advising, and various mentorship programs.
The Limitations of Grades and Test Scores
Grades and test scores, while important, have limitations due to their broad applicability across a wide range of abilities. For instance, a GPA of 3.9 to 4.0 covers a vast spectrum of ability and conscientiousness, making it less reliable as an exclusively strong indicator of academic success in college.
A study conducted at a Berkeley university further highlights this issue. The study examined the academic outcomes of students over four years, finding that high school grades were at least as predictive of long-term college performance as SAT scores. This suggests that high school grades provide a more meaningful and fair basis for college admissions decisions.
Moreover, the authors of the study argue that the use of standardized test scores in college admissions should be minimized due to their significant interconnection with socioeconomic status. They propose that high school grades offer a more equitable and meaningful framework for evaluating student performance.
Conclusion
The factors that best predict a high school student's success in college are multifaceted. Course difficulty, GPA, and extracurricular activities all play important roles. However, it is crucial to recognize the limitations of grades and test scores. Students who have a combination of strong academic performance, time management skills, and exceptional extracurricular achievements are more likely to thrive in college. As educational systems continue to evolve, it is essential to focus on a comprehensive assessment of students rather than relying solely on standardized measures.