THE JUNIOR STEPS

 

There are some very important steps that you cannot miss this year. You have some pretty important decisions to make this year. In order to keep you on track, we made a checklist of all the essential things you must do this year.

• Get to know your guidance counselor better than ever before. They should be your #1 resource when looking at your college options. They can answer any questions you have, and they can talk to you about any concerns.

• Get organized. Start a college folder. This is where you can keep information about all of the different colleges that you are looking at. You can keep other important information in this folder as well—such as dates of standardized tests, volunteer opportunities, and your resume.
  
  
  
• Get ready to take the Standardized Tests. Check the dates for the PSAT, SAT, and ACT. Talk to your counselor about which tests you should take and how they can benefit you. When you are ready—get signed up! Remember: If you are planning on attending a traditional 4-year school, they require ACT test scores upon application—so do your best!Check with your guidance counselor to see if your school offers any ACT or SAT test prep classes. If not, check and see if you can take any online. Be as prepared as possible.
  
  
  
• Keep up those grades!! Continue to challenge yourself with the courses that you are taking. Start a resume of your academic achievements if you haven’t already. If you have, keep it updated.
  
  
  
• Keep volunteering! And don’t forget to add these things to your resume. Volunteer work looks great on scholarship applications!
  
  
  
• Keep up the college search! Go to college fairs, do as many college visits as you can, talk to actual college students, and talk to your parents and friends about your options. This is your year to do as much investigating about your college options as possible. Look into the college application process. Make sure the colleges you are looking at would correspond well with your career goals.