College Planning Timeline: Getting Ready for College
A child heading off to college is a big event for any family. But
long before move-in day, there are lots of things to accomplish.
From choosing a school and a major to standardized tests and financial aid, the tasks may seem
overwhelming.
Even if a sibling or other member of the family has applied to college, chances are nobody wrote everything down, or created a checklist the family could use when it was time for the next person to start the application process. This helpful college planning timeline will keep you organized and ensure you don't miss very important dates.
Even if a sibling or other member of the family has applied to college, chances are nobody wrote everything down, or created a checklist the family could use when it was time for the next person to start the application process. This helpful college planning timeline will keep you organized and ensure you don't miss very important dates.
Grades and Classes
The college planning process really begins on day one of high school freshman year. A student's grade point average (GPA) is one of the biggest factors of college admissions. Now, one bad grade during your freshman year does not mean the end of your college dreams. Freshman year can be a big transition from middle school, and college admissions officers understand that. So, they'll be looking for how you learned from that experience and whether your grades improved the next year.Consider taking honors and Advanced Placement (AP) classes. Talk to your current teachers and ask for their recommendations about which courses may be right for you. Doing well in challenging courses will prepare you for future academic courses, improve your GPA, and look good on college applications. AP courses could also qualify students for college credit while still in high school.
Sports, Clubs and Volunteering
Getting involved in extracurricular activities is a great way to make new friends and develop leadership skills. Sports teams and school clubs also will create lifelong memories of your high school career. Consider joining sports or clubs that truly interest you. Volunteering at an animal shelter or applying for a summer internship at a local company are also great ways to explore future careers or just learn something new.Of course, activities also look good on college applications. That's because colleges want well-rounded students who pursue their passions and actively seek out ways to develop leadership and teamwork skills. Don't overschedule yourself. Join something you truly enjoy and become an active part of the group. Remember to keep track of any extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and awards so you have all the information in one place when it comes time to start the college application process.
Standardized Testing
Junior year is when it really helps to have a college planning timeline to rely on. During junior year, most public-school students in North Carolina take the ACT in school for free. This is a great opportunity for juniors to take the test in a familiar environment.Think about it. Taking the test during the school week, during regular school hours, and in a familiar setting, can reduce test-taking stress and allow you to focus on doing your best. Students who register for tests outside of school hours are usually taking them early on a Saturday morning and in an unfamiliar school. So, make the most of the free test in school, to get a score you'll be happy with.
Whether you decide to take the ACT or the SAT, prepare ahead by studying test-taking tips and taking sample tests online. Consider joining a test prep club at school or ask a teacher about organizing after-school study sessions.
Schedule Campus Visits
Days off school and holiday breaks during junior year are good times to schedule college campus visits. First, spend some time planning for college by researching schools and majors online. Make a list of all the schools you're interested in and specific majors that match your interests.Once you have a list of potential schools, start scheduling campus visits. Most schools offer official tours during the week, so register well in advance if you're thinking about going on a day off school. Those dates fill up the quickest.
Visiting campus and taking a tour from a current student could really give you a feel for a school and how you might fit in there. However, if you can't make it to an official tour, most schools offer self-guided tours on their websites or even through mobile apps.
Letters of Recommendation
During the college search, make note of which schools will require a letter of recommendation for your admission application. Applications are not due until senior year, but if you need a letter of recommendation, consider asking a teacher or school counselor before junior year ends. That way, they can have the entire summer to write something amazing about your academic drive and leadership skills.College Applications
Since most students believe that senior year really begins the minute you complete that last final exam of junior year, consider using the summer to get a head start on college applications!Personal Essay
Why not begin your personal essay? Whether you're using the Common App or the Coalition App to apply to colleges, you will need a personal essay.1. Start by reviewing the essay prompts and brainstorming a topic that's right for you.
2. Ask a parent or friend to proofread your essay for grammar and punctuation mistakes.
3. Finally, after schools begins in the fall, ask a teacher or counselor to give you some honest feedback.
Taking the time to complete all these steps, instead of rushing through the essay with application deadlines looming, will ensure you feel confident about the essay you submit.