What Gpa Is Needed for University of Cincinnati? - Admission Requirements
Are you on the verge of making a life-changing decision – applying to the University of Cincinnati? As you weigh your options and prepare your application, one crucial factor stands out: your GPA. The University of Cincinnati is a top-tier institution that attracts ambitious students from across the nation, and your academic record is a significant determining factor in the admissions process.
The competition for a spot at the University of Cincinnati is fierce, with talented students vying for limited spots. A strong GPA can be the difference between acceptance and rejection, making it essential to understand what GPA is needed to succeed. As you navigate this critical phase, you're likely wondering: what GPA does the University of Cincinnati require? Is a 3.0 good enough, or do you need to aim higher? The answers to these questions can make or break your chances of getting accepted.
In this blog post, we'll delve into the GPA requirements for the University of Cincinnati, providing you with the insights you need to make informed decisions about your academic journey. We'll explore the minimum GPA requirements for different programs, the importance of GPA in the admissions process, and tips for improving your academic performance. Whether you're a high school student, transfer student, or international applicant, this guide will empower you with the knowledge to take control of your university prospects and achieve your academic goals.
Get ready to uncover the GPA secrets to securing a spot at the University of Cincinnati. By the end of this article, you'll be equipped with the confidence and expertise to navigate the application process and make a compelling case for yourself as a top candidate. Let's dive in and explore what GPA is needed to succeed at this esteemed institution.
What GPA is Needed for University of Cincinnati?
Understanding the Admission Requirements
The University of Cincinnati (UC) is a public research university located in Cincinnati, Ohio. With a strong reputation for academic excellence and research opportunities, UC attracts students from all over the world. To be considered for admission, prospective students must meet the university's GPA requirements, which vary depending on the program and student type.
UC uses a holistic approach to evaluate applicants, considering factors such as academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, and personal statements. While GPA is an important factor, it is not the only consideration. UC wants to get to know the applicant as a whole person, beyond just their academic record.
Minimum GPA Requirements
The minimum GPA required for admission to UC varies depending on the program and student type. For undergraduate programs, the minimum GPA requirement is 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. However, this is just the minimum requirement, and students with higher GPAs may be considered for admission to more competitive programs.
For graduate programs, the minimum GPA requirement is typically higher, ranging from 3.0 to 3.5 on a 4.0 scale. Some programs may have even higher GPA requirements, so it's essential to check the specific requirements for your chosen program.
Additional Admission Requirements
In addition to the minimum GPA requirement, UC may also require additional materials for admission, such as:
- Standardized test scores: UC accepts the SAT or ACT for undergraduate admission, and the GRE or GMAT for graduate admission.
- Letters of recommendation: UC may require one or two letters of recommendation from academic or professional references.
- Personal statement or essay: UC may require a personal statement or essay as part of the application process.
- Transcripts: UC requires official transcripts from all previous institutions attended.
GPA Requirements for Specific Programs
Some programs at UC may have higher GPA requirements or additional admission requirements. For example:
- Engineering programs: UC's engineering programs have a minimum GPA requirement of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Business programs: UC's business programs have a minimum GPA requirement of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, and may also require additional materials such as a resume and personal statement.
- Health sciences programs: UC's health sciences programs have a minimum GPA requirement of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, and may also require additional materials such as a personal statement and letters of recommendation.
Tips for Meeting GPA Requirements
If you're struggling to meet the GPA requirements for UC, here are a few tips to help you improve your chances:
- Take challenging courses: Enroll in Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses to demonstrate your academic abilities.
- Focus on your grades: Make sure to maintain a high GPA by focusing on your grades and staying on top of your coursework.
- Seek help when needed: If you're struggling in a particular course, seek help from your teacher, tutor, or academic support center.
- Consider summer school or online courses: If you need to make up credits or improve your GPA, consider taking summer school or online courses.
In conclusion, meeting the GPA requirements for the University of Cincinnati is just one part of the admission process. By focusing on your grades, taking challenging courses, and seeking help when needed, you can improve your chances of being accepted into your desired program.
Understanding the University of Cincinnati's GPA Requirements
The Importance of GPA in College Admissions
GPA, or grade point average, is a critical component of the college admissions process. It provides a numerical representation of a student's academic performance and serves as a key factor in determining their eligibility for admission to a particular institution. The University of Cincinnati, like many other colleges and universities, uses GPA as one of the primary metrics to evaluate applicants.
In this section, we will delve into the GPA requirements for the University of Cincinnati, exploring the various factors that influence admission decisions and providing valuable insights for prospective students.
What is the Average GPA for University of Cincinnati Admissions?
According to the University of Cincinnati's admissions data, the middle 50% of admitted students have a high school GPA ranging from 3.5 to 4.0. However, it's essential to note that GPA is just one aspect of the application process, and the university considers a holistic approach when evaluating applicants.
The following table provides a breakdown of the average GPA for University of Cincinnati admissions:
GPA Range | Admitted Students (%) |
---|---|
3.5-3.74 | 25% |
3.75-3.99 | 50% |
4.0+ | 25% |
How Does the University of Cincinnati Evaluate GPA?
The University of Cincinnati uses a multi-faceted approach to evaluate GPA, considering the following factors:
- Course rigor: The university takes into account the level of difficulty of the courses taken, including Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses.
- GPA trends: The university examines the applicant's GPA over time, looking for consistency and improvement.
- SAT/ACT scores: The university considers the applicant's standardized test scores, which can impact GPA.
- Extracurricular activities: The university evaluates the applicant's involvement in extracurricular activities, such as sports, clubs, and volunteer work.
- Letters of recommendation: The university considers letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, and other professionals who can speak to the applicant's abilities and character.
What GPA is Required for University of Cincinnati Merit Scholarships?
The University of Cincinnati offers various merit scholarships to high-achieving students, and GPA plays a significant role in determining eligibility. The following table outlines the GPA requirements for some of the university's merit scholarships:
Scholarship | GPA Requirement |
---|---|
Trustee Scholarship | 4.0+ |
President's Scholarship | 3.9-4.0 |
Dean's Scholarship | 3.7-3.89 |
What GPA is Required for University of Cincinnati Academic Programs?
Implications of GPA on University of Cincinnati Academic Programs
Understanding GPA Requirements for Specific Majors
While the University of Cincinnati has a holistic admissions process, some academic programs have more stringent GPA requirements. For instance, programs in engineering, computer science, and business often require a higher GPA due to the competitive nature of these fields. The following table outlines the GPA requirements for some of the university's academic programs:
Major | GPA Requirement |
---|---|
Engineering | 3.5+ |
Computer Science | 3.7+ |
Business Administration | 3.5+ |
It's essential for prospective students to research the specific GPA requirements for their desired major and to ensure they meet the necessary criteria for admission.
The Impact of GPA on University of Cincinnati's Honors Program
The University of Cincinnati's Honors Program is a highly competitive program that requires students to maintain a high level of academic excellence. To be eligible for the program, students must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 or higher, as well as complete a rigorous course schedule that includes honors-level courses. The following table outlines the GPA requirements for the University of Cincinnati's Honors Program:
Year | GPA Requirement |
---|---|
Freshman | 3.5+ |
Sophomore | 3.5+ |
Junior | 3.5+ |
How to Improve GPA for University of Cincinnati Admission
For students who are struggling to meet the GPA requirements for the University of Cincinnati, there are several strategies that can help improve their academic performance. The following tips can be helpful:
- Talk to teachers and advisors: Students should communicate with their teachers and advisors to identify areas where they need improvement and to develop a plan to address those areas.
- Seek additional academic support: Students can seek additional academic support through tutoring, study groups, and online resources.
- Take challenging courses: Students should take challenging courses that push them to grow academically and provide opportunities for improvement.
- Stay organized: Students should stay organized by creating a schedule and prioritizing tasks to ensure they meet deadlines and stay on top of their work.
Conclusion
The University of Cincinnati has a holistic admissions process that considers a range of factors, including GPA, when evaluating applicants. While GPA is just one aspect of the application process, it plays a significant role in determining eligibility for admission to the university's academic programs. By understanding the GPA requirements for the University of Cincinnati and taking steps to improve their academic performance, students can increase their chances of admission to this prestigious institution.
What GPA is Needed for University of Cincinnati?Understanding the University of Cincinnati's Admission Requirements
The University of Cincinnati is a public research university located in Cincinnati, Ohio. It is a highly competitive institution that attracts students from all over the world. To be admitted to the University of Cincinnati, students must meet the minimum admission requirements, which include a strong high school GPA.
The University of Cincinnati uses a holistic admissions process, which means that the admissions committee considers a range of factors beyond just GPA, including standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, and letters of recommendation. However, GPA remains a critical component of the admission decision.
What is the Minimum GPA Required for Admission to the University of Cincinnati?
The minimum GPA required for admission to the University of Cincinnati varies depending on the program and college. Here are some general guidelines:
- For freshman admission, the minimum GPA required is 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- For transfer admission, the minimum GPA required is 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for students transferring from a community college, and 2.75 on a 4.0 scale for students transferring from a four-year college.
However, meeting the minimum GPA requirement does not guarantee admission to the University of Cincinnati. The admissions committee considers a range of factors beyond GPA, including:
- Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT)
- Extracurricular activities and community service
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or essay
What is the Average GPA of Admitted Students?
Average GPA of Admitted Students
The average GPA of admitted students to the University of Cincinnati varies depending on the program and college. Here are some general guidelines:
- The average GPA of admitted freshman students is around 3.5 on a 4.0 scale.
- The average GPA of admitted transfer students is around 3.2 on a 4.0 scale.
However, it's worth noting that GPA is just one factor in the admission decision. The admissions committee considers a range of factors, including:
- Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT)
- Extracurricular activities and community service
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or essay
How Does GPA Affect Admission Decisions?
GPA is a critical component of the admission decision, but it's not the only factor. The admissions committee considers a range of factors beyond GPA, including:
- Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT)
- Extracurricular activities and community service
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or essay
Here are some general guidelines on how GPA affects admission decisions:
- Students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher are generally considered competitive for admission.
- Students with a GPA between 3.0 and 3.4 may be considered for admission, but may be required to provide additional information or may be placed on a waitlist.
- Students with a GPA below 3.0 may be considered for admission, but may be required to provide additional information or may be placed on a waitlist.
What Can You Do if Your GPA is Below the Average?
If your GPA is below the average, don't panic! There are still steps you can take to increase your chances of admission:
- Take challenging courses in your senior year, such as Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses.
- Improve your standardized test scores (SAT or ACT).
- Engage in extracurricular activities and community service to demonstrate your passions and interests.
- Write a strong personal statement or essay to showcase your goals and motivations.
Remember, admission to the University of Cincinnati is competitive, and GPA is just one factor in the admission decision. By taking steps to improve your GPA and demonstrating your strengths in other areas, you can increase your chances of admission.
What Can You Do if You're a Transfer Student?
Transfer Students and GPA Requirements
As a transfer student, you may be wondering what GPA is required for admission to the University of Cincinnati. Here are some general guidelines:
- The minimum GPA required for transfer admission is 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for students transferring from a community college, and 2.75 on a 4.0 scale for students transferring from a four-year college.
However, meeting the minimum GPA requirement does not guarantee admission to the University of Cincinnati. The admissions committee considers a range of factors beyond GPA, including:
- Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT)
- Transferable credits and course rigor
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or essay
How Does GPA Affect Transfer Admission Decisions?
GPA is a critical component of the transfer admission decision, but it's not the only factor. The admissions committee considers a range of factors beyond GPA, including:
- Standardized test scores (SAT or ACT)
- Transferable credits and course rigor
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or essay
Here are some general guidelines on how GPA affects transfer admission decisions:
- Students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher are generally considered competitive for admission.
- Students with a GPA between 2.5 and 2.9 may be considered for admission, but may be required to provide additional information or may be placed on a waitlist.
- Students with a GPA below 2.5 may be considered for admission, but may be required to provide additional information or may be placed on a waitlist.
What Can You Do if Your GPA is Below the Average?
If your GPA is below the average, don't panic! There are still steps you can take to increase your chances of admission:
- Take challenging courses in your final semester at your
Understanding the GPA Requirements for University of Cincinnati
The University of Cincinnati is a highly competitive institution that attracts top talent from across the country. To be considered for admission, students must meet certain academic requirements, including a minimum GPA. In this section, we'll delve into the GPA requirements for the University of Cincinnati and provide guidance on how to achieve academic success.
Minimum GPA Requirements
The University of Cincinnati uses a holistic admissions process, considering a range of factors beyond GPA. However, a strong GPA is essential for admission. Here are the minimum GPA requirements for the University of Cincinnati:
- First-Year Students: A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 in college-preparatory coursework (such as Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, or Honors courses) is required for admission.
- Transfer Students: A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0 in college-level coursework is required for admission.
It's worth noting that meeting the minimum GPA requirements does not guarantee admission to the University of Cincinnati. The admissions committee reviews each application holistically, considering factors such as standardized test scores, course rigor, extracurricular activities, and personal statements.
Weighted vs. Unweighted GPA
Weighted vs. Unweighted GPA
When evaluating GPA requirements, it's essential to understand the difference between weighted and unweighted GPAs. A weighted GPA takes into account the level of difficulty of courses taken, while an unweighted GPA is a simple average of all grades earned.
The University of Cincinnati uses a weighted GPA system, which means that students who take Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses can earn a higher GPA than students who take regular college-preparatory courses. Here's an example of how weighted and unweighted GPAs might differ:
Course Weighted GPA Unweighted GPA AP Calculus (5) 5.0 5.0 Regular English (4) 4.0 4.0 IB Biology (6) 6.0 5.0 As you can see, the student who takes the AP Calculus and IB Biology courses would have a higher weighted GPA (5.5) than the student who takes the regular English course (4.0). However, if we only consider the unweighted GPA, the student who takes the regular English course would have a higher GPA (4.0) than the student who takes the AP Calculus and IB Biology courses (3.5).
It's essential to note that the University of Cincinnati uses a weighted GPA system, so students who take challenging courses like AP or IB can earn a higher GPA than students who take regular college-preparatory courses.
How to Improve Your GPA
While meeting the minimum GPA requirements is essential for admission to the University of Cincinnati, there are many ways to improve your GPA and increase your competitiveness as a candidate. Here are some tips:
- Take challenging courses: Enroll in Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), or Honors courses to demonstrate your academic abilities and earn a higher weighted GPA.
- Stay organized: Keep track of your assignments, due dates, and grades to ensure you're meeting your academic obligations.
- Seek help when needed: Don't hesitate to ask your teachers or classmates for help when you're struggling with a particular concept or assignment.
- Develop good study habits: Establish a regular study routine, use active learning techniques, and review material regularly to reinforce your understanding.
- Stay motivated: Remind yourself why you're working towards your academic goals and celebrate your successes along the way.
By following these tips and maintaining a strong GPA, you'll be well on your way to increasing your competitiveness as a candidate for the University of Cincinnati.
GPA Requirements for Specific Majors
GPA Requirements for Specific Majors
While the University of Cincinnati has a holistic admissions process, some majors may have more competitive GPA requirements than others. Here are some GPA requirements for specific majors at the University of Cincinnati:
- Engineering Majors: A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 is required for admission to engineering majors like Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Computer Science.
- Business Majors: A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 is required for admission to business majors like Business Administration, Finance, and Accounting.
- Health Sciences Majors: A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 is required for admission to health sciences majors like Nursing, Public Health, and Health Education.
- Arts and Sciences Majors: A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 is required for admission to arts and sciences majors like English, History, and Philosophy.
It's worth noting that meeting the minimum GPA requirements for your desired major does not guarantee admission to the University of Cincinnati. The admissions committee reviews each application holistically, considering factors such as standardized test scores, course rigor, extracurricular activities, and personal statements.
How to Choose the Right Major
With so many majors to choose from, it can be challenging to decide which one is right for you. Here are some tips to help you choose the right major:
- Explore your interests: Think about what subjects you enjoy learning about and what activities you find most engaging.
- Research career options: Look into the job market and salary expectations for your desired career.
- Consider your strengths: Think about your academic strengths and how they align with your desired major.
- Seek advice: Talk to your teachers, academic advisors, and career counselors to get their input on your desired major.
- Keep an open mind: Be willing to try out different majors and courses before committing to a specific path.
By following these tips and doing your research, you'll be well on your way to choosing the right major for you.
Meeting GPA Requirements for Transfer Students
Meeting GPA Requirements for Transfer Students
Transfer students must meet specific GPA requirements to be considered for admission
Key Takeaways
The University of Cincinnati (UC) is a competitive institution that requires a strong academic record for admission. To increase chances of getting accepted, it's essential to understand the GPA requirements and other admission criteria.
A minimum GPA of 3.2 or higher is recommended for freshmen applicants, while transfer students typically need a GPA of 2.5 or higher. However, meeting the minimum GPA requirement does not guarantee admission, as UC considers a holistic approach, including standardized test scores, coursework, and extracurricular activities.
By understanding the admission requirements and focusing on academic excellence, students can increase their chances of getting accepted into the University of Cincinnati.
- A minimum GPA of 3.2 or higher is recommended for freshmen applicants to increase admission chances.
- Transfer students typically need a GPA of 2.5 or higher, but this may vary depending on the program.
- Meeting the minimum GPA requirement does not guarantee admission, as UC considers a holistic approach.
- Standardized test scores, such as the SAT or ACT, are also important factors in the admission decision.
- A strong academic record, including challenging coursework and good grades, is essential for admission.
- Extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and leadership experiences can also enhance an application.
- Early application and submission of all required documents can improve admission chances.
- Students should research and understand the specific admission requirements for their desired program or major.
By following these key takeaways and focusing on academic excellence, students can increase their chances of getting accepted into the University of Cincinnati and set themselves up for success in their academic and professional pursuits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What GPA is needed for University of Cincinnati admission?
The University of Cincinnati has a holistic admissions process, considering a range of factors beyond just GPA. However, for in-state students, the middle 50% of admitted students typically have a GPA of 3.6 or higher, while out-of-state students have a GPA of 3.9 or higher. This doesn't mean that students with lower GPAs won't be considered, as the university also takes into account other qualifications, such as ACT or SAT scores, extracurricular activities, and letters of recommendation. It's essential to note that meeting the minimum GPA requirements doesn't guarantee admission, as the university also considers the rigor of the student's coursework, academic trends, and other factors.
Is a 3.0 GPA good enough for University of Cincinnati admission?
A 3.0 GPA is generally considered a minimum threshold for admission to many universities, including the University of Cincinnati. However, a 3.0 GPA may not be competitive for admission, especially if the student's coursework is not challenging or if they lack other qualifications. In-state students with a 3.0 GPA may be considered for admission, but out-of-state students typically need a higher GPA to be competitive. It's essential to review the university's admission requirements and consider additional qualifications, such as standardized test scores and extracurricular activities, to increase the chances of admission.
How does the University of Cincinnati weigh GPA and standardized test scores?
The University of Cincinnati uses a holistic admissions process, considering a range of factors beyond just GPA and standardized test scores. However, the university does place significant weight on these factors, particularly for in-state students. For in-state students, the middle 50% of admitted students typically have a GPA of 3.6 or higher and an ACT score of 26 or higher (or an SAT score of 1240 or higher). Out-of-state students typically need higher GPAs and standardized test scores to be competitive. The university also considers other qualifications, such as extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and academic trends, to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the student's abilities and potential.
What are the benefits of having a high GPA for University of Cincinnati admission?
A high GPA can provide several benefits for admission to the University of Cincinnati. Students with high GPAs are more likely to be considered for admission, particularly for in-state students. A high GPA also demonstrates a student's ability to succeed in challenging coursework and can provide a competitive edge in the admissions process. Additionally, students with high GPAs may be eligible for merit-based scholarships or other forms of financial aid. A high GPA can also provide a foundation for future academic success and career opportunities.
How do I calculate my GPA for University of Cincinnati admission?
To calculate your GPA for University of Cincinnati admission, you'll need to follow the university's GPA calculation guidelines. The university calculates GPA based on a 4.0 scale, using a weighted average of the student's grades in all high school courses. The university considers the following factors when calculating GPA: grades in core courses (English, math, science, social studies, and foreign language), grades in honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses, and grades in electives. You can use an online GPA calculator or consult with your school counselor to ensure you're calculating your GPA correctly.
What if my GPA is lower than the average GPA of admitted students?
If your GPA is lower than the average GPA of admitted students, it doesn't necessarily mean you won't be considered for admission. The university considers a range of factors beyond just GPA, including standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and academic trends. It's essential to review the university's admission requirements and consider additional qualifications to increase the chances of admission. You may also want to consider applying for conditional admission or appealing your admission decision if you believe there are extenuating circumstances that affected your GPA.
Is a higher GPA more important for in-state or out-of-state students?
A higher GPA is more important for out-of-state students, as they typically need higher GPAs to be competitive for admission. In-state students with lower GPAs may still be considered for admission, particularly if they have other qualifications, such as standardized test scores or extracurricular activities. However, out-of-state students typically need higher GPAs and standardized test scores to be competitive, as they are not eligible for in-state tuition rates.
How much does GPA affect University of Cincinnati scholarship awards?
GPA is a significant factor in University of Cincinnati scholarship awards, particularly for merit-based scholarships. Students with higher GPAs are more likely to receive merit-based scholarships or other forms of financial aid. The university also considers other qualifications, such as standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, and letters of recommendation, when awarding scholarships. However, GPA is a critical factor in determining scholarship eligibility, and students with higher GPAs are more likely to receive awards.
What if I'm a non-traditional student with a non-traditional GPA?
If you're a non-traditional student with a non-traditional GPA, you may still be considered for admission to the University of Cincinnati. The university considers a range of factors beyond just GPA, including standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, letters of recommendation, and academic trends. You may also want to consider applying for conditional admission or appealing your admission decision if you believe there are extenuating circumstances that affected your GPA. The university also offers a range of resources and support services for non-traditional students, including academic advising and career counseling.
Conclusion
To summarize, the University of Cincinnati requires a competitive GPA for admission, with the average GPA for incoming freshmen ranging from 3.7 to 4.0. However, the exact GPA needed may vary depending on the program or college, such as the College of Engineering, College of Business, or College of Arts and Sciences. It's essential to note that GPA is just one factor in the admission process, and other components like standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, and extracurricular activities also play a significant role. By understanding the GPA requirements and admission process, prospective students can better prepare themselves for a successful application. The University of Cincinnati offers a wide range of academic programs, research opportunities, and campus resources, making it an excellent choice for students seeking a high-quality education.
The benefits of attending the University of Cincinnati are numerous, including access to renowned faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a diverse student body. By meeting the GPA requirements and submitting a strong application, students can set themselves up for success and take advantage of the university's many resources. If you're interested in attending the University of Cincinnati, we encourage you to review the admission requirements, explore the various academic programs, and reach out to the admission office for guidance. Take the next step by visiting the university's website, scheduling a campus tour, or contacting an admission counselor to discuss your application. By taking these steps, you'll be well on your way to joining the University of Cincinnati community and achieving your academic and professional goals.
As you move forward in your academic journey, remember that a strong GPA is just the starting point. It's the foundation upon which you'll build a successful and fulfilling career. So, stay focused, work hard, and strive for excellence in all that you do. With the University of Cincinnati as your launchpad, the possibilities are endless, and the future is bright. So, go ahead, aim high, and make your mark on the world. The University of Cincinnati is ready to help you achieve your dreams – are you ready to take the first step?