It’s second semester and college application season is suddenly looming large for high school juniors. Junior year is one of the busiest and it’s essential that students make room to prepare for college during this time.
Come senior year, students will be glad they laid the groundwork for their applications by allowing themselves the time to really plan, prepare, and investigate their options.
Students should be…
- Researching colleges
Visit college web sites, read blogs and guidebooks, and talk with teachers and counselors. Students should consult a number of different resources to see what schools interest them. - Planning college visits
Students should be visiting colleges this semester to get a better feel for their likes and dislikes when it comes to size, location, facilities, campus life, academic opportunities etc.There’s nothing quite like setting foot on a campus to help students visualize what their college experience may be like. - Taking standardized tests
Which, how many, when? Students need to make a plan. In addition to the ACT/SAT, students should be factoring in which SAT subject tests and AP tests they’ll be taking. - Maintaining good grades
Junior year grades are extremely important for college applications. If students apply early decision/action, junior year grades will be the only ones a college sees until they receive the student’s mid-year report. - Taking on more responsibility in extracurriculars
Whether students are part of a sports team, a club, an honor society, or a youth group, now’s the time to take on a leadership role and influence decisions. The end of junior year is a great time to set things up for senior year. Would a student like to head up a new project for the group? Maybe run for a position of power like class president, club treasurer or team captain? Juniors are ready to step up to the plate and make things happen. - Thinking about letters of recommendation
Students should consider which teachers they’ve formed strong relationships with and who would be able to speak to their strengths academically and otherwise. It’s not too early to start asking teachers! They’ll appreciate the heads up before they’re bombarded with requests from other students. - Applying for scholarships
Scholarship applications aren’t only for seniors! There are many opportunities out there for juniors as well. Students can check online and with their high school guidance office for local and national scholarships available to them.
