Action Plan: Juniors

FALL

  • Review course descriptions further in the Course Description Handbook.

  • Select courses with school counselor.

  • Set WIGs for the school year and stay motivated and focused.

  • Get involved, explore and commit to extracurricular activities.

  • Prepare for the optional ACT and SAT. Check online for testing dates.

  • If you’re interested in playing college sports, make sure you research the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) as early as your freshman year. NCAA Eligibility Center

  • Make a list of potential colleges of interest.

    1. Attend college fairs, college nights, and rep visits.

    2. Speak to representatives from colleges that attend your high school.

    3. Plan campus visits with their admission offices.

  • Create a resume and add any awards and involvements to use in a letter of recommendation/college application.

  • Build relationships with your teachers as they are the ones who you will most likely ask for the letter of recommendation.


WINTER

  • Stay involved with extracurricular and volunteer activities.

  • Study for the ACT/SAT.

  • Research careers and corresponding majors.

  • Job shadow in career field if possible.

  • What does college cost? Use the College Savings Calculator to get an idea and attend a Financial Aid Night with parent.

  • Begin to research Financial Aid options.

  • Sign up for challenging classes for your senior year. Take a Dual-Credit/AP course, if appropriate.

SPRING

  • Take the school-wide SAT (April)---Grad Requirement--- along with optional ACT test. Check website for testing dates.

  • Set up appointments at your top college choices OR trade school, including a tour of the campus and meet with a professor/coach (Spring Break is a great time to visit!)

  • Start making summer plans to visit additional colleges and trade schools and begin to narrow choices.

  • Explore interests and learn new skills, including an internship or job.

SUMMER

  • Work a summer job to gain experience, build a resume, and save money for college.

  • Talk to others about their experience in college.

  • Start working on your college application essays.

  • Consider retaking the SAT/ACT to improve score.