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.