Homeschooling has become the widely accepted form of educating children. This method of learning provides students the opportunity to work at their own pace and pursue knowledge that is most interesting to them.
Since this method is a relatively new concept, many people wonder if homeschoolers do well in college. This article will review the success rate of homeschoolers on college campuses.
How Homeschool Students Are Doing in College
One of the biggest questions parents ask when considering homeschooling their children is if doing so will hinder their chances of getting into college. According to research from the NCES, homeschoolers are more likely to surpass the academic achievements of their peers in traditionally schooled environments.
Homeschoolers typically demonstrate higher test scores on college entrance exams and display better time management skills. This is due largely to the unique, self-paced structure that homeschooling provides. In addition to academic successes, research into the social skills of homeschoolers has also yielded favorable results.
Issues such as college entry rates, ultimate graduation rates, and success in the job market have all been studied. The studies show that homeschoolers, while sometimes considered to be socially awkward and reclusive, are, on the whole, no less prepared to handle the demands of the college experience than their peers.
Pros and Cons of Homeschool College Preparedness
The pros of homeschooling for college preparedness are numerous. Homeschoolers give more attention to topics of higher interests, allowing for quicker discovery and higher comprehension of the material.
Homeschoolers become skilled at self-motivation and independent study, traits that will serve them well when faced with longer and more complex projects in the college environment. They usually exhibit enhanced communication skills because of their frequent interpersonal interactions with their peers, teachers, and college counselors. On the other hand, homeschoolers often face challenges related to their college prep.
Homeschoolers tend to lack extracurricular activities that are commonplace in traditionally schooled students. This can put them at a disadvantage when it comes to competitive college admission processes.
Homeschoolers also tend to overlook potential weaknesses in their academic records with regards to college prep because they don’t have access to the same quality of resources as traditionally schooled students.
What Makes Homeschoolers Successful in College?
Homeschoolers have the potential to be successful in college. The key to their success lies in the dedication they bring to their studies and the determination they possess to make good grades. When considering college, homeschoolers should take advantage of the resources available such as college prep courses, scholarships, and college visits.
Good study habits and test prep will also be of great help in the college application process. In addition to being well prepared academically, homeschoolers should also make sure to try and adjust to the college campus environment.
Making friends and relationships with students, faculty and staff are essential to a successful college experience. Homeschoolers should make an effort to participate in student activities and join university-sponsored clubs or groups in order to meet people and create networks that can help open up future career and study opportunities.
Conclusion
Based on the evidence presented in this article, homeschoolers have the potential to do just as well in college as those who attended traditional schools. With the proper dedication and attention to detail, homeschoolers can complete their college prep and adjust to a college environment just as easily as their traditionally schooled peers. Resources such as college counseling, scholarships, and campus visits can provide additional guidance and support for homeschoolers interested in pursuing higher education.