LITMIR.BIZ

      FOREWORD

      If the prospect of receiving an A- in AP calculus keeps you up at night, this book is not for you. If, on the other hand, you are ecstatic about scoring that B in English, this book is exactly what you need!

      One of the greatest myths about a college education is that you need to have straight A’s or be the class valedictorian to get into an excellent college. The truth is that there are terrific colleges out there that want you — whether you are a B student or, gasp, even a C student. But don’t assume that these colleges are looking for slackers. Quite the opposite: These schools know that good students don’t always perform at their true potential in high school. For example:

      • Maybe you didn’t take high school seriously and only now have come to realize the importance of doing well academically.

      • Maybe you managed your time poorly or were overcommitted with a job or activities.

      • Maybe you were distracted by events in your life beyond your control.

      • Maybe you were just bored with high school.

      Whatever the reason, these schools know that your grades and test scores are not always reflective of who you are and how well you will do in college. So, if you are now committed to getting a college education and are willing to put in the time and effort to be a successful student, these colleges want you.

      The key is: How do you find these colleges? What do you need to look for to make sure that you will excel? And how do you show the college that you are serious about getting a great education and will be an asset to their student body?

      That’s where this book will help. Here are just a few of the things that you will learn:

      • How to identify colleges that accept students with less than perfect grades and test scores.

      • What characteristics to look for in a college to ensure that you succeed academically as well as socially.

      • How to best position yourself — both the positives and negatives — in the college application, essay and interview.

      • Ways to pay for your education. (Scholarships are not just reserved for the A students. There are literally thousands also available for students based on non-academic skills and talents.)

      • Tips for making that sometimes difficult transition from high school to college.

      Tamra Orr has written this book just for you. She has been there, done that as a student like you without perfect grades or test scores. She knows there is no shame in being a B student. (In fact, Tamra knows how to present this as a huge positive to a college!) She also knows that just because you may not be in the “Ivy-League-Wannabe” crowd doesn’t mean you are not motivated and committed to being successful.

      Let her help you find that perfect college! We wish you the best in your journey!

      — Gen and Kelly Tanabe Authors of 14 books on college planning including The Ultimate Guide to America’s Best Colleges and The Ultimate Scholarship Book