It may feel like only yesterday when you were leaving your Sponge Bob Squarepants backpack at home and entering high school. With busy class schedules and socializing with friends on the weekends, the years have flown by. You are now of junior status in high school and people are starting to ask you what your plan is for after high school.
While it may seem like forever away, it is never too early to start preparing for college. During your junior year, start documenting what you have accomplished and decide what you want to finish.
The following ten tips will help you start your college search and help build your future.
1. Take the PSAT- In the fall of your junior year, your high school or another local high school will offer a practice SAT exam. While colleges will not see the score, it offers an opportunity to see how the test is administered and prepares you for the actual SAT. The PSAT also offers scholarship opportunities.
2. Be a leader- While you are participating in extracurricular activities throughout the school year, volunteer to be a team captain or event organizer. Colleges look for individuals who take leadership roles and push themselves to the top.
3. Volunteer- Be an active member of the community. Participate in local fundraisers or spend a few hours a weekend at the local library or nursing home. Colleges appreciate students who help others and use their free time wisely.
4. Stay on the honor roll- Keep your grades up and stay focused. Your junior year is the most looked at year by college admissions, impress them with great grades and challenging classes.
5. Take challenging classes- Many high schools offer Advanced Placement or upper-level courses. By taking these classes, you show colleges that you like to be challenged.
6. Continue with a Foreign Language- Some colleges require two years of a foreign language in high school. Wow them by taking three or four years of the same language. It shows admission officials that you have mastered another language and that you stayed committed to what you set out to accomplish.
7. Take the SAT – Register early and be as prepared as often. Take the test as many times as you need to get the score you want. Look for textbook and online practice tests.
8. Talk to Counselors- Guidance counselors are a useful source for your college search. Visit their office for information and advice. Teachers and parents are also beneficial sources to help you decide on an ideal college.
9. Visit each college- Take the time to visit college campuses. Sometimes just being there will confirm or deny your desire to go to a certain school. Since present students often guide tours of the college, they can explain their first-hand experiences at the school.
10. Keep a clean record- Peers may pressure you to try drugs or alcohol while in high school. tell them “no.” If you were to get caught with the illegal substance, you can say goodbye to your future at college. Any kind of arrest is frowned on by college admissions.
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