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Work on scheduling your time as efficiently as possible. The
more you plan for study time, extracurricular activities and your
social life the more likely you are to be successful in all areas
of high school life.
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Work on your study skills if needed. Many students fall into
bad study habits which can interfere with your progress towards
admission at the colleges of your choice. Learning to study more
effectively now will help you attend the school you want and will
help you be successful when you get there!
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Set reasonable goals for grades in all of your courses. Sit
down with your parents, teachers and counselors to discuss your
goals, expectations and any special concerns you may have about
certain courses.
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Be open to all the potential
activities that are offered at the high school level. Be ready to evaluate
clubs, teams, activities and community service options that appeal to you. Not
only will you get involved more quickly in high school life, you will also be
gathering valuable experiences that many colleges may be interested in down the
line.
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Be sure to keep track of any and
all activities you are involved with this year. This information will be very
valuable as you eventually apply to the colleges of your choice.
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When counselors meet with you and your fellow freshmen to
organize your 4 year plan take your time and fill out all information
thoroughly. Be honest in your assessment of your eventual goals.
If you are intending to go to a four year college then you should
be considering certain courses in your sophomore year.
Try to think ahead!
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Consider visiting your counseling or career center to become
familiar with the resources that are provided. If you begin to
see what is available now, it may help you to make some important
decisions later.
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Attend meetings at your high school when college representatives
come on campus. You should familiarize yourself NOW with the college
opportunities which are out there. In addition, it is never too
early to learn about college admission requirements.
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Take advantage of the guidance which is offered by your high
school staff. Counselors, Career Center Specialists, and administrators
are there to help you make effective decisions for yourself.
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Monitor your progress this year to meet college entrance requirements.
Use your four year plan folder at school) and the tools provided by Apply4Admissions.com
to keep track of your grades and
courses. It is important to see if the courses you are taking
this year could be required in terms of establishing your eligibility
for admission to colleges in which you may have an interest. Check
with your counselor!
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Consider taking the SAT II: Subject Tests at the end of this
school year which relate to appropriate courses in which you are currently
enrolled. If you are planning to attend a four year college that
requires the SAT II tests consult with your counselor
to determine if courses you are taking will prepare you adequately
to take a SAT II Subject Test this year.
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Begin discussing with your parents the costs of attending college.
Inquire about their plans to help you finance this increasingly
expensive educational opportunity. You may want to suggest consulting
an accountant or financial advisor to help figure out ways to
save money for the next 3 years. Be willing to do your part in
terms of saving money for your OWN education. Be ready to work
this summer as an example!
