Make the grade
Grades matter! Get in the habit of doing well and it'll be a lot easier to keep
up that GPA through all four years.
Chart your course
As you choose tenth-grade classes, move to the next level academically. This will
set the stage for your high school academic career.
Crack open a book or two
Did we mention the importance of vocabulary? Starting next year, some important tests
will start popping up. Start getting ready now by building a test-perfect vocabulary.
Avoid senior slump: early edition
When you pick senior-year classes, don't load up on elective. Stick with a challenging
schedule that will warm the heart of a college admission officer. If possible, take some
AP or international Baccalaureate (IB) classes.
Talk to the fam'
As you explore potential colleges, keep your family in the loop. Things will be even
easier later if they know where you're coming from. They may even have some helpful ideas.
Stay involved
Continued involvement in school and community activities is a must.
Plan ahead
If you're planning on taking the SAT or ACT in the spring, now would be the time to
prepare! From books and practice tests to online courses, there are tons of options.
Special advice on early decision
If you get in, it's time to withdraw your other applications. If not, it isn't the
end of the world. Keep your other applications out there.
Watch the clock
The last thing you want to do is miss an application deadline.
Submit the FAFSA
No matter what your family's income level, the FAFSA is your number one priority for
financial aid purposes—it'll determine how much you're expected to pay.
Continue your scholarship search
Don't slow down in your hunt for extra cash. The downtime after applications have been
mailed is the perfect time to focus on aid.
Make the grade
Ask your counselor to send your mid-year grades to the school to which you are applying.
