It’s a big pool

California is a big dog with a big appetite . It has to be when you consider it has the 5th biggest economy in the world . ‘Generation next ‘is also a massive industry in the States . College is big business and the pressure to get there is extreme . I Was talking to one of the mums about her daughter who has just finished year 9 . Yesterday she had 10 hours of dance rehearsal for a big performance today . Leading into the big day she has been practicing 6 days a week !She is also starting to pick subjects for year 10 which will line up her chances for the colleges she can get into . Already , at only year 10! Her mums tells me she will also complete her 2nd year of summer school . 6 weeks of intense 5 to 6 hour days with 3 hours of homework on top . In 6 weeks she will attempt to do a whole years curriculum in a couple of subjects . This is done so she can have less subjects throughout the year and then can concentrate on maths and sciences . The race is on early here . The reason for the push to get ahead is multi faceted. Population is the main one . To get an offer in California and close to home is extremely tough . That’s the thing about the US . The kids are prepared to move anywhere in the country to get a college education , at only 18 . Californian kids are sought after . Colleges in other states are keen to pursue kids here . They know there is so many talented kids fighting to get on top . They will get offers but at higher tuition fees . Outer state colleges know that these kids and their families will pay extra for a degree . On top of that , Californian kids are well known for being well educated . Also Californian kids are excellent sportsman . Scholarships and partial scholarships are targeted towards kids here . Talented kids will be tracked the moment they hit year 9 . There is a toughness , or should I say ruthlessness about the system here . Kids are tested , measured , pressured and toughened up early . Australian kids have got it so good .