11 June
Freshmen
Looking for ways to earn money and get a glimpse into the world of work? Babysitting, lawn mowing, car washing, tutoring, painting or dog-walking are at great ways to get started.
Will you be attending summer camp on a college campus? If so, take time to look around and think about whether it's a school you'd attend. When you get home, research the college online.
Talk to others who've been there. Family members, friends, teachers school counselors and coaches may love to tell you about their college experiences.
Sophomores
Compare different careers. Look at things like required education, daily tasks and starting salary, and think about what appeals to you the most.
Update your summer reading list. Try to choose challenging subjects or books about careers or hobbies. For ideas, search online for "college prep reading list."
Explore careers in line with your hobbies and interests. Maybe you could earn a living someday doing something you love!
Juniors
Begin applying for scholarships. Find Iowa scholarship opportunities and links to searches, as well as tips for essay writing, on the ICAN website.
Beware of credit card offers. It's easy to quickly get in over your head. Talk to your parents about offers and if any of the cards are right for you.
If you haven't visited all of the colleges on your list, schedule a college visit.
Use the Internet to get information on your preferred colleges.
Finalize your college choice. Look especially at the features that are most important to you.
Seniors
Find out if your college offers orientation sessions and if so, plan to attend.
Let your college's financial aid office know about any scholarships you've received that weren't part of the college's financial aid package.
Ask your high school to send your final transcript to the college you've chosen.
Save money from your summer job. You'll be glad you did.
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.