These early years are all about building a solid academic foundation and exploring your interests. Focus on maintaining good grades in challenging courses, particularly math and science classes, as colleges look for rigor on transcripts. Start exploring extracurricular activities that you enjoy and might want to continue in college. Getting involved early allows you to demonstrate commitment and potentially take on leadership roles by senior year. Taking the PSAT and PreACT can give you a preview of the standardized tests and help you decide which one to focus on later.
Junior year is a crucial time for college prep as you'll be taking standardized tests and solidifying your college list. Start by registering for the ACT or SAT early and plan to take it at least twice to improve your score. Meet with your high school counselor to discuss your college goals and create a plan for senior year. Begin connecting with teachers who you might ask for recommendation letters later on. Continue exploring colleges through online research, virtual visits, and in-person tours if possible. By the end of junior year, aim to have a preliminary list of colleges that you're interested in applying to.
Senior year is all about applications, essays, and deadlines. Finalize your college list and make note of application deadlines and requirements for each school. Start working on your college essay, brainstorming ideas, writing drafts, and seeking feedback from teachers or counselors. Ask teachers and your counselor for recommendation letters early in the fall to give them plenty of time. Complete and submit your applications well before the deadlines. Explore financial aid options by filling out the FAFSA and CSS Profile. Once you receive acceptance letters, carefully consider financial aid packages and make your final college decision.
Staying organized and managing deadlines is essential throughout the college prep process. Create a calendar or spreadsheet to track important dates, such as standardized test registration deadlines, application deadlines, and financial aid deadlines. Use online resources, such as the Common Application website, to streamline the application process. Remember that college prep is a marathon, not a sprint. Breaking down tasks into smaller steps and spreading them out over your high school years can make the process feel less overwhelming.
