OCTOBER

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?

College App & Admissions Timeline: Want to know what's coming, what you'll be doing in the next few years to prepare for college? This timeline and set of resources track the college search and application process from 9th through 12th grade. This is a "long game" --- take note of what's on the horizon for you and your family, for now and later!
Big 5 Personality Assessment: Learn more about your strengths, challenges, and communication and learning styles.
Build healthy routines: Prioritize sleep, healthy food choices and exercise. Stronger physical health = stronger mental health, increased focus and better decision-making skills.

Virtual college tours: Curious about what college is all about, but not feeling ready for an in-person visit? Have fun searching through these student-driven virtual college tours.

Activity Log: Get involved in a couple of clubs, sports or other extracurricular activities either at your school or in your local community. Keep track of your engagement over time on this simple spreadsheet.
Be careful with your social media use: Any words or pictures you post are part of your permanent online record. If it’s something you wouldn’t want your grandparent to see, maybe don’t post it.

Start exploring possible careers: There are so many possibilities out there. What sounds interesting to you? Start with your interests and see where your research takes you
Take some time to try out preparation for the SAT using Khan Academy's official practice. These practice modules and even practice tests are a great way to get experience with the content and timing of standardized exams.

How to create a college list: Use this guide and organizing tool to begin building a list of schools that you’re excited about....and then follow them on SCOIR!
How to research schools without visiting a campus: You don’t need to step on a college campus to begin researching schools. Here are four resources that will show you how.
Going test optional: What is it? Confused about whether or not test scores matter? Here’s an overview of what you need to know.
FairTest: Looking for a comprehensive list of colleges and universities with test-optional admission policies? Here you go.
PSAT: Take the exam seriously this month and get a feel for what SAT Test Day will be like. Your score will help highlight your test-taking strengths and areas for improvement, and will inform your test-prep plan moving forward.

How to Decide Whether to Apply Early Decision or Early Action: Double-check your ED/EA deadlines—some fall as early as October 15th. Note that some school-based scholarships require that you apply by the early deadline. Be sure to confer with Mrs. CR to strategize on these applications!
Penn State: For those of you applying to the Penn State systems, the priority application is due on November 30th!
FAFSA + CSS PROFILE: Start filling out these forms to make sure to meet the deadlines set by the colleges on your list.
College Application Fee Waivers: Find out if you qualify for fee waivers and, if so, how to get them.
Resource guide for low-income students or those experiencing homelessness: Learn more about college costs, financial aid, and available services.
Supplemental essay responses: If you’re applying to schools that require additional essays beyond the main personal statement, this is a must-read.
Interview with colleges that offer them: Depending on the school, you can either sign up on its website or respond to an invitation it sends via email.
Demonstrated interest: Remember that it’s important to let the colleges on your list know that you’re really interested in attending their schools. Keep connecting with college representatives when they visit your school, your community, or via virtual sessions online.
Research scholarships: Continue to research scholarship opportunities, making special note of requirements and deadlines.