Freshman Calendar

September

  • Keep up your grades and continue/develop good study habits.

  • Begin talking to your counselor about your education plans past high school and making your high school courses reflect your career plan.

  • Begin exploring all the CTE pathway options.

  • Use the U.S. Department of Labor's career search tool to research your career options or download the OOH app.

  • Sign-up to take the PSAT 8/9.


October

  • Get involved in school or community-based activities that interest you or let you explore career interests. Consider working, volunteering, and/or participating in academic enrichment programs.

  • Explore reasons for considering college.

  • Take the PSAT 8/9.


November

  • Start a list of your awards, honors, paid and volunteer work, and extracurricular activities. Update it throughout high school.

  • Browse the College Scorecard to see what types of schools interest you. Big or small? Close to home or far away? Programs focused on engineering or art? Keep your preferences in mind as you talk with your parents and school counselor.

  • Begin to think about and talk to your parents about a college financing plan.

  • Sign up for a College Board account and link it to a Khan Academy account so that you can practice for your PSATs.


December

  • Register for the PSAT.

  • Start your search for scholarships - some are available as early as your 8th and 9th grade years.

  • If your family vacation takes your near a college, stop and visit to get a feel for a college campus.


January

  • Review your grades and study habits. Make adjustments as necessary heading into second semester.

  • Review general college admission requirements. Make sure your high school plan still aligns with your goals.

  • Discuss concurrent enrollment options and CTE classes.


February

  • Attend college fairs and career fairs.

  • Begin putting together a resume for jobs and internships.


March

  • Take the PSAT 8/9 again.

  • Begin to plan classes for next school year that align with your post-graduation plans.


April

  • Practice interviewing skills.

  • Submit any applicable scholarship applications.


May

  • Apply for summer jobs and internships that will help you explore career interests.

  • Preview your plans for your sophomore year.



Parents

  • Talk to your child about his or her interests and help match those interests with possible careers.

  • Monitor your child’s grades.

  • Plan ahead to see how much federal student aid your child might receive at www.fafsa4caster.gov

  • Continue saving for your child’s education.