DECEMBER

Here is a list of things that you can do RIGHT NOW, at your appropriate grade level, to prepare for college! It's a big, complex question, but I hope that the resources listed below are helpful to you. You can also "look ahead" -- what might you be doing this time next year?

Values Exercise (video): What’s important to you? Spend some time thinking about your core values with this quick exercise.
Time management: Finding it hard to balance your school work, extracurricular activities, and sleep? This worksheet can help assess whether you’re doing too much.
Uplevel your study skills: This guide has tips to help you study smarter, not harder.

Practice for the SAT Suite of Assessments: You'll take the PSAT as a junior in October, but in the mean time you can take steps to prepare through practice. Khan Academy is the home of the SAT Official Practice, so consider working through some of their preparation activities. Even doing the SAT Question of the Day and building this small habit into your regular day can have helpful results over the long term! Strong test scores, even as a junior, may qualify you for academic honors as well as for special programs and recruitment opportunities. To learn more about standardized testing AND to consider them in context of a college application, view our page!
How to Plan a Fulfilling and Productive Summer (podcast): It may seem really far away, but take note -- some competitive and really awesome programs have early-application deadlines, so start researching early. You don't want to miss out on opportunities. A LOT of summer programs can be costly, so applying early may grant access to scholarships or at least an opportunity to fundraise or earning your way --- starting now!

Review PSAT results: You can review not only your scores but also the questions you answered correctly and those you missed. If you haven't already created a College Board account, see Mrs. CR on how to do that!
Compass Guide to Admissions Testing: If you haven’t already, this is the time to map out a testing plan. And remember that 1,000+ U.S. colleges are STILL using test-optional policies for fall 2023 applicants!
Best free test-prep resources:
How to Plan a Fulfilling and Productive Summer (podcast): It may seem really far away, but take note -- some competitive and really awesome programs have early-application deadlines, so start researching early. You don't want to miss out on opportunities. A LOT of summer programs can be costly, so applying early may grant access to scholarships or at least an opportunity to fundraise or earning your way --- starting now!

(!!!) FILE THE FAFSA, if you haven't already!

The FAFSA opened on October 1. It is best to fill out this application as soon as possible to get any/all funds for which you're eligible. Always (and only) use the FAFSA.gov website to complete this form.
You'll need an FSA ID in order to sign your electronic application. You can do that now, even if you're not ready to fill out the FAFSA. Click here.

FILL OUT INITIAL APPLICATIONS

Update SCOIR to keep Mrs. CR aware of your college choices. This is how Mrs. CR will know where and when to send your transcripts, recommendation letters, and other important documents. You apply on the college website or Common App, you update SCOIR, and Mrs. CR will send the rest.
Keep checking your applicant portals and emails: Portals are the place where colleges keep applicant information and where you can update contact information, monitor application status, upload and track documents, and view the final admission decision. If you miss a request for more information or a document, it could jeopardize your admission chances, so make it a habit to check regularly.

Complete and send out all RD applications no later than mid-December to keep the mayhem managed! If you applied Early Decision/Early Action, you might want to hold on submitting additional applications and sending off the CSS Profile to the rest of your list until the early news is in. Just make sure not to miss any deadlines.
Write thank you notes: Share gratitude with your teachers for writing letters of recommendation for you.

FINALIZE YOUR COLLEGE ESSAYS

The Great College Essay Test: Assess how ready your essays are to submit!
Supplemental essay responses: This is your go-to guide when applying to colleges that require more than a personal statement. Those deadlines are likely "closer than they appear..." Watch your time closely to make sure opportunities don't pass you by!