So you've had a great high school cheerleading career. Big games, pep rallies, competition and the thrills that go along with being a cheerleader. You've poured your heart and soul into cheerleading for as long as you can remember. But graduation day is rapidly approaching. Many new challenges and adventures are certainly ahead of you. And you must ask yourself: Is college cheerleading one of them? Many of you are probably very anxious to find out. If so, read these tips to learn what you should do to make your dream a reality.

Talk to the coach or advisor!

If you've already decided which college you will be attending you can find out what to expect. If not, this may help you learn more about the schools you are interested in. Coaches can certainly tell you about the squad and many are a good source of information about the college.

Ask questions like who judges tryouts what skills are required and how tryouts are scored. You'll also want to know about tryout and clinic dates as well as other any opportunities you may have to work with current squad members.

You will also want to know about the responsibilities of squad members. Does the squad compete? What sports will you cheer for? What other functions and events does the squad participate in? What is the practice schedule? Remember, once in college you will have to juggle academics and activities so it is important to know how much time cheerleading will require.

Talk to the people on the squad!

Ask about their thoughts on tryouts and being on the squad. They may be able to give you adivice that will help with both cheerleading and academics. These people have managed to make the squad and keep the appropriate grade point averages so their experience may be helpful to you. Try to get several opinions.

Watch the squad at games or competition!

This is a great way to learn what skills members need to have and how well you will have to perform at tryouts. Also, the excitement of these events may motivate you to work hard so that you can be a part of it.

Be prepared!

Tryouts for many college squads are very challenging. Once you know what skills are required, practice before tryouts. Make sure you are in top physical condition by sticking to a good workout schedule. Even if you think you are prepared work a little harder just to make sure.

Show your spirit!

Be attentive and prompt for all clinics and tryouts. Show a positive attitude and work extra hard. Whether you think the material is easy or hard give 110% at all times. Also, do not be intimidated. There may be more experienced or even more talented cheerleaders there. Just do your best and let the coaches and judges decide if you have what it takes. If you tell yourself you can't make it you may not give it a real chance. You'll never know how good you can be if you don't try. Don't judge yourself, let the judges do it. After all, that's their job.

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