Challenge yourself
Here are the "musts" for your schedule: English, math, science, history, and a foreign
language. Take each at the highest level you can handle. Also, get in the habit of reading.
As you progress through high school, it will really help you.
Try new things
Whether your gig is theater, sports, or something totally unique, get involved!
It’s fun—and will work in your favor down the road.
Meet your friendly guidance counselor
Your counselor is one of the champions who can help you make sense of things.
Set up a meeting to chat about high school and beyond.
Take a practice run on the PSAT
We know the idea of taking a test that you don't have to take sounds odd. Do it anyhow.
It won't count and will prepare you for the real thing.
Keep up the good work
Don't give into the temptation to slack. There's probably a lot competing for your attention,
but grades still matter. Remain focused on doing well in challenging courses that make you think!
Fill your date book
Figure out when you'll be taking important tests like the SAT or ACT and mark them on
your calendar. You'll want to have plenty of time to prepare.
The PSAT is your friend
Taking the PSAT in October will help you figure out what to study for on the SAT. Also,
the top performers become eligible for scholarships. Make sure you take it!
Start fact finding
Keep an eye out for college nights and go! You can learn a lot. Now is a also a great time
to start a file to organize the college catalogs and brochures that will soon start to pile up.
Get prepped
Formulate your prep plan for the SAT, ACT, AP, and other tests. Don't know where to start?
Take a practice test and talk to your guidance counselor—it'll help you figure out
what to do next.
Slack on slacking
You've probably heard this about a million times, but senior-year grades count. Some
schools will take back admission offers if you bomb, so don't do it.
Keep at your scholarship search
It never hurts to apply—and it could make a dent in next year’s tuition bill!
Ask for letters of recommendation
Writing a recommendation is a favor. If you haven't already, schedule an appointment with
your champion to discuss your goals—as early as possible. Also, give them everything
they'll need to complete it, including stamps!
Plan your test schedule
Take the SAT and/or ACT, as well as any Subject Tests, if applicable. If you're happy
with your scores, you're done forever! If not, you have a few months to hit the books
(or computer) before giving it a final shot.
Seek some guidance
Counselors want to help you, but they can't if they don't know who you are! Clue them in
as to where you're applying and ask them whether you're on track with admission requirements.
Think financial aid
Certain schools require a supplemental financial aid form (in addition to the FAFSA)
called the CSS/PROFILE. Check to see if this is the case at any of the schools to which
you're applying. If so, the form is due in the fall.
