Adapted from the Common App
This year is about focus — on your grades, your college entrance exams, your college search, and, of course, yourself. Now is the time to determine the activities you enjoy most and the interests you want to pursue.
This is the year college changes from a distant concept looming in your future to an actual reality to prepare for today.
Your checklist
- Before you even begin your college search, your school counselor can make sure you’re on track to meet your academic obligations and connect you with resources and timelines. Be proactive! It’s up to you to schedule appointments and get help when you have questions.
- The PSAT is a standardized exam your high school administers in October. It will prepare you to take the SAT (a standardized entrance exam required by some colleges), but it also serves as a qualifying test for the National Merit Scholarship Program.
- There are lots of colleges and universities out there and just as many ways to learn which ones might be a good fit for you. Start your search by attending college fairs and meeting with college admission representatives who visit your high school or community. Do your research, take notes, and meet with your school counselor to further shape your college list.
Standardized tests – including the SAT, ACT – can help colleges assess how ready you are for college-level coursework. Talk with your counselor about what test preparation opportunities may be available, which tests you should take, and how to determine the testing requirements for the colleges you are considering.
Did you know? More than 1,000 four-year colleges and universities do not use the SAT or ACT in the admissions process. Visit FairTest to learn more and to access a searchable database of test-optional schools.
Questions on how to make the most of your junior year? Let’s chat!
Bettina Weil
Weil College Advising, LLC
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