JUNIOR PREP CHECKLIST
STEPS TO PREP
· Visit your counselor or adviser. Meet with your counselor or adviser to discuss colleges, find resources, and ask about upcoming college events and opportunities such as college nights.
· Make sure you’re on track. Familiarize yourself with college entrance standards, and make sure you are on track academically with good grades and the right courses to meet your college goals.
· Earn college credit. Start earning college credit by taking Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB), Dual or Concurrent Credit, and Tech-Prep Courses.
Helpful websites: GenTX Rock Your Future
· Narrow your list of colleges. Develop a list of 5 colleges that interest you. Explore each school’s website to find information on academics and financial aid; some colleges will also have viewbooks you can request.
Helpful websites: College Matchmaker, College Portrait, College Atlas
· Attend college events. Go to local college nights, college fairs, or other informational events. Be sure to come prepared with a list of your questions and concerns so that you can have a conversation with the college representatives.
· Visit college campuses. Find out when admissions tours are offered and visit campuses of those colleges that interest you. Visiting schools will help you determine whether the size, location, and personality are right for you.
Helpful websites: College Tour Questions
· Stay involved. Continue your extracurricular activities and take on leadership roles when possible. Consider which skills you are developing through your involvement and how these skills will help you in college and your career. And don’t forget to continue updating your brag sheet!
Helpful websites: GenTX Rock Your Future
· Add to your college file. Add copies of test scores, application forms, draft essays, and any other relevant forms and paperwork to your file. As your college file expands, be sure to keep it organized.
· Take practice tests. Use your PSAT score report to create a study plan for improving your scores. Look for SAT/ACT prep materials that will work best for you; your school might offer a prep class, or you can find free resources online to familiarize yourself with the exams.
Helpful websites: SAT Practice
· Create a professional email. If you don’t have one already, set up a professional email address that can be used for all of your online college-related accounts, and get in the habit of checking it regularly.