CLEP Tests, College Athlete Info, & Monthly Resources for 9-12 Graders

Freshman

• • Take advantage of the warmer weather to change up your routine and stay motivated through the end of the school year. Take your homework outside or spend some time outdoors after school.

  • Get involved in your community by volunteering. Volunteering provides leadership and good citizenship skills, and you might find your future career. Check out the Iowa Commission on Volunteer Service for a list of options as www.volunteeriowa.org.

  • Make the most of your summer. Look for summer camps that focus on your interest (such as sports, band, drama or academics). Check with teaches, school counselors and coaches for recommendations.

Sophomores

• • Look for a summer job that's in line with your interests. Be sure to save some of your summer earning for college. It's never too early to start saving money!

  • Ask your school counselor about AP (Advanced Placement) classes that would fit into your schedule. Harder courses in high school make you more prepared for college. Also check into dual-enrollment classes that let you earn college credit.

  • Look for academic camps being held this summer. They're a great way to catch up or get ahead.

  • Read more! Reading is one of the best ways to improve your grades, and you can do it practically anywhere. Ask your local librarian for suggestions on books to read this summer or research online.

Juniors

• • Think about the college experience and environment you want. Write down what's important to you, review your career plans and find a college that's a good fit.

  • Line up a summer job in line with our career interests or volunteer in your community. Save some of your summer earnings for college expenses.

  • Are you unsure what you want to be? Ask your school counselor how I Have A Plan Iowa can help you choose a career.

  • If you plan to take AP (Advanced Placement) exams, check with our school counselor now for more information.

  • Consider taking a summer course at a local college.

  • Beware of scholarship search and financial aid services that charge. Much of the information you need is available for free.

Seniors

• • If you haven't decided which college to attend, so do as soon as possible.

  • Make sure you've turned in all necessary documents to the financial aid office at your college of choice, including loan applications and promissory notes. Make sure you return the forms on time if your college has a deadline.

  • Finalize your summer job or volunteer plans. Jobs related to your future career and volunteer work will be great experiences you can add to your resume.

Parents

• • Help your child choose a career. Deciding on an initial career goal can be daunting for a high school student, but research shows that parents have a large influence on their child's career choices. Take the time to guide your child through the process of discovering abilities, interests and values that will help them choose a suitable career path.