As you get ready to finish high school, getting into the best college for you will help with your next stage of life. To do that, you need to understand what the universities you're looking at want from you. Attending a private school is a good first step. Here are a few other basics to cover.

How to Get a University's Attention After Private School

1. Grades

Most schools require a certain GPA and specific test scores for admission. These numbers are minimums; meeting them doesn't mean you'll get in, but it is a requirement, and scoring higher increases your chances. If your grades are faltering, don't let them slide; put extra time into studying, homework, and asking for help from the teachers and staff.

2. Activities

Extracurricular activities help you stand out from other students with the same grades. Leadership positions like student council membership are helpful for showing that you're proactive and capable. You should also include volunteer work to show you're community-minded, and add activities relevant to your area of study. For example, joining your school's debate team is relevant if you'd like to go into law.

3. Interviews

Your paper application is only one step in the admissions process. You should also prepare for college interviews. The interviewers are there to get a sense of your personality and how you handle yourself in real life, so make the best impression you can. Dress professionally for your interview, and pay attention to your body language. Sit and stand straight, make eye contact, avoid fidgeting, keep your arms and hands in a relaxed, open position, and smile. Also, it helps to think about answers ahead of time for common questions like why you're interested in this school, what you intend to study and why, what your strengths and weaknesses are, what you do in your spare time, and how you want to improve and contribute to your university or your high school.

For a top-rated private school that will help you get into the university of your choice, choose Saint Joseph High School in Metuchen, NJ. Serving Middlesex, Essex, Hunterdon, Union, Somerset and Monmouth counties, this all-boys Catholic school has over 50 years of history providing quality education and opportunities on their beautiful 70-acre campus. To apply, visit their website or call (732) 549-7600.