The Diligent Dozen
 A ‘To-Do' List for Parents of Minorities Aspiring to College

JDon't leave the choices in your child's high school curriculum to school guidance counselors. Too often, counselors will steer students of color to less rigorous courses that fail to adequately prepare them for college work.

JDon't leave it to counselors to decide which higher education institutions your child might apply to. One counselor tried to dissuade my daughter from applying to Boston University because of the racial climate in that city.

JMake sure your child has access to Advanced Placement courses. And be prepared to have to search for a school with the desired AP courses. If your school district has a magnet school-type program, you should be able to find these courses there. Proficiency in AP courses will enhance a college application.

JMake sure your child takes algebra no later than the ninth grade. And then move on to calculus, trigonometry and as much math as he or she can get. Numerous studies show math is key to doing well on college entrance examinations — and in college courses.

JGet involved in your child's school as well as their schooling. Go to the back-to-school nights and teachers' conferences. Volunteer for school trips and career days. You may be asked to stay away from the school socials, but somebody has to chaperone. Get involved with the PTA. If the teachers and administrators see you as an involved parent they are less likely to ignore your child, and you are more likely to wield greater influence in the education of your child.

JHave your child take the PSAT as early as possible. The more times students take this exam, the more comfortable they will become with it and other college entrance exams. Additionally, if students do well enough, they will get noticed by the National Merit Scholarship and National Achievement Scholarship programs.

JLook for programs both locally and nationally that will give your child a college-like experience for the summer. Some programs begin early, accepting children who are entering the ninth grade or younger. And most of these programs offer financial assistance, including transportation for those traveling long distances, for children from low-income — and in some cases, middle-income — families. And if you can't obtain a summer experience for your child, then just take them to the nearest college campus and allow them to soak in the atmosphere. By taking your children to athletic and cultural events on local campuses — many of which are free to the public — you will be showing them that they belong in such places.