Set Goals
Talk with your child about setting goals, both academically and socially. Encourage them to set goals to reach their full potential. Middle school is a time of social challenges, so make sure to check in to keep them motivated and focused.
Take on the Challenge
Encourage your child to take classes that will challenge them. It is important to start planning for the future by enrolling your child in the most challenging math and science courses for which they are eligible (i.e. Algebra 1, Geometry, Physical Science, etc.). Talk with teachers and counselors to make a plan that will serve your child best and help them reach their goals.
Get Involved
Talk with your child about their hobbies, clubs, and other groups where they can participate. Looking for something different? Find a faculty sponsor and start a new club! Check the opportunities offered through the CU-ICAR outreach programs.
Make a Plan
Talk with your child about deadlines and tests coming up. Make it a point to check in regularly about schoolwork and their grades.
Career Exploration
Share about your own career and talk with your child about career options. Talk about their interests and see where those may line up for potential future occupations. Clemson offers outreach events for middle school students to encourage them to learn more about the fields of engineering and science. Check out our website for more information on these events:
STEM Day – Bring your student to campus to see and hear more about the College of Engineering, Computing, and Applied Sciences.
Girl Scouts and Friends Day – Bring your troop and friends to this outreach event where girls learn about STEM careers and participate in exciting engineering activities.
EXPLORE Mobile Lab – Bring the EXPLORE Lab to your school! This lab is sponsored by Duke Energy, and it brings engineering activities and materials to the middle school classroom to show students the opportunities that a degree in engineering can bring!
Camp
Summer camp is a great way to take learning beyond the classroom. Clemson offers the following summer camps for middle school students:
Project WISE – Come and stay on campus, and experience what it is like to be a Clemson student. You will learn about engineering and meet new friends from across the country!
Summer Science Camps – Investigate chemistry, physics, and engineering design within the virtual classroom this summer. Sign up now to have your materials ready for the first session!
Check out the College Board site for tips on how to start college prep in middle school!