Summer is right around the corner - here are the top 10 things you should do to get a jump start on your college search:
Write a generic admission essay: Believe it or not, applying to college can take as much time as a regular class during your senior year. The more you can do during the summer to prepare for college applications the better equipped you will be to handle your senior year courses.
Complete one college admissions application: This will give you an idea of what is asked for on college applications and will help you prepare for filing out additional applications in the fall.
Collect reference letters: Reference letters typically come from a student's junior year teacher(s). Teachers appreciate having the extra time over the summer to prepare these letters.
Visit (or plan to visit) colleges: Summer is not always the ideal time to visit colleges since many students aren’t there, but this happens to be the time high school students are free and parents’ schedules are more flexible. When visiting colleges try to sit in on a class, visit dorm rooms, eat in the cafeteria, and with coaches and professors in areas of interest.
Develop a preliminary list of colleges: Look for information on different colleges and make a list of your “must haves” in a college. From there create a preliminary list of colleges to consider. Some colleges may even give out names of alumnus in the student’s neighborhood who may be willing to share experiences.
Participate in interesting activities: These activities would include internships, volunteer work, clubs, or paid positions. Try something productive and creative in an area of interest.
Keep a summer journal: A journal can help you keep track of different activities that you take part in as well as what you want and need in the next few years. Journaling can also help improve communication skills which are critical for later success.
Plan to take SAT, ACT, SAT Subject Tests: Rising seniors should have taken an ACT at least once by this point. You may want to check with colleges you are looking into as to whether or not they require an ACT or SAT test.
Begin scholarship search: Use books and web-based services to begin searching for private money.
READ! Reading is the best way to improve vocabulary and prepare for standardized tests.
If you or somebody you know would like support in the area of career and college planning feel free to reach out at info@atozeducationalconsulting.com or 612-735-1261.
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