Pre-College Preparation: 6 Proven Activities for Academic and Mental Readiness

Why Pre-college Preparation Matters

The shift from high school to college comes with increased independence, a heavier workload, and new social experiences, all of which can be overwhelming if you’re unprepared. By actively developing academic skills and mental resilience before stepping onto campus, you can

• Reduce stress and anxiety associated with the transition.
• Build confidence in your ability to handle college-level coursework.
• Develop strong time management and self-care habits.
• Improve overall well-being and academic performance.
• Foster meaningful connections that will support your success.

Investing in preparation now allows you to enter college feeling more empowered and ready to thrive. Here are six proven strategies to help you get ahead and make your transition to college life smoother and more successful.

1. Explore Your Academic Interests Early.

There is no better time to start exploring academic interests that spark your curiosity than before you enter college. Engage in small projects related to potential college majors—whether coding a simple app, writing a short story, or conducting basic science experiments. You may also take an online course through platforms such as Coursera or edX to sample college-level material in fields you are considering. These self-directed activities will help you clarify your academic interests and provide valuable talking points for college interviews.

2. Experience College Life Through the Eyes of Current Students.

If you are still deciding between colleges or simply want to better understand college life, consider reaching out to current students in your community for advice or even shadowing opportunities. Many students are happy to share their experiences and provide insight into campus life.

A great place to start is by exploring a college or university’s professional communities on LinkedIn. By engaging with students with similar interests and goals, you can gain firsthand exposure to college life and make more informed decisions about your academic path.

Additionally, many colleges and universities have student ambassadors who support prospective students during the admission process. For example, St. John’s University offers an internal tool to connect prospective students with ambassadors across various majors and countries.

3. Familiarize Yourself with Student Support Services.

Colleges and universities provide various resources, including academic support, wellness services, and mentoring programs, to ease your transition into higher education. For instance, at St. John’s University, you can find various services specifically designed for first-year students.

By exploring these services in advance, you can identify specific programs that align with your needs. This proactive approach can help boost your confidence in seeking assistance when necessary. Understanding the available support structures also reduces anxiety and enhances your overall preparedness, leading to a more successful college experience.

5. Prepare for College-Level Academics.

Make the most of your time before college by preparing for the rigors of college-level coursework. Practice taking detailed notes from online lectures, refine your ability to write longer research papers, and familiarize yourself with academic databases and citation tools. Consider joining online study groups or forming one with fellow students who are also preparing for college. Engaging in these activities will help you develop strong academic skills that are essential for success at the university level.

Pro tip: Consider enrolling in a pre-college summer program, which many colleges and universities offer. For instance, St. John’s University provides early admission courses that allow students to earn credits and experience college-level coursework before their first year.

6. Focus on Personal Growth and Wellness.

Success in college requires more than just academic preparation. Dedicate time to developing healthy habits that will benefit you in college and beyond. Establish a sustainable exercise routine, practice stress management techniques, and build emotional intelligence. Consider starting a meditation practice or a journaling habit to help navigate the transitions ahead. 

Building Your Foundation for Academic and Mental Wellness Success

Your time before college is an opportunity to lay the groundwork for both academic and personal well-being. Every activity in which you engage—whether it is exploring academic interests, developing essential life skills, or building meaningful connections—contributes to a strong foundation for your college journey. By implementing these strategies now, you will be well prepared for both the academic challenges and mental wellness aspects of college life.