Preparing for College

Because the college application process is becoming increasingly competitive, preparing in high school is essential. Though there is no way to guarantee acceptance to a specific college, meeting specific criteria in high school will go a long way in helping you get accepted, and can help open up aid, scholarships, and grants, making college more affordable.

Freshman Year

Freshmen do not need to worry about college yet. The focus for high school freshmen should be on succeeding in academics and looking into your interests. These tips are steps freshmen can take to help them in high school.

Freshmen can make an academic plan, or an outline of classes they want to take in high school. You can start by adding all of the classes you need to graduate, and begin thinking about Honors and AP classes you want to incorporate. You can also add classes that you will enjoy.

Developing good study habits is crucial for freshmen, as a high GPA is dependent on this. Parts of a good study habit system include: 1) Developing an organizational system and sticking to it 2) Completing assignments fully and turning them in on time 3) Note-taking skills, both in-class and at-home. Try different methods and see what works best for you! 4) Managing time effectively and efficiently 5) Exploring where and how you study and work best.

Extracurricular activities can prepare students for college and round out applications. They can also lead students to explore different interests, and even potential career paths. Though some sources argue multiple extracurriculars are necessary, you really only need a few to round out your application! Colleges are just looking for any and your commitment to them, not necessarily a number.

Sophomore Year

Sophomore year preparation is very similar to freshmen year preparation. Sophomores may want to research career interests and potential majors, but should not feel pressured to choose anything. You are still very young!

Sophomores can meet with high school counselors. Counselors can help explore colleges, fill in applications, and meet criteria.

Sophomores can also take the PSAT. The Pre-SAT can measure how ready you are for standardized tests you will take in your junior year, (ex: SAT, ACT), and it can qualify you for the National Merit Scholarship program, as well as other scholarships.

Spend your summer productively. Though summer is first and foremost a time for rest, (this is essential to prevent burnout, do not overlook this), getting a part-time job, volunteering, and/or participating in a college prep program can help prepare you for college.

Junior Year

This is the main year of college preparation. Because this is the last academic year officially submitted to colleges, it is important to focus on your grades. You may take advanced classes in areas that interest you. However, do not take on too much stress, as this can compromise your GPA. Focus on developing quality skills, as these skills will help you succeed in both high school and college.

Build relationships with teachers and counselors. These teachers and counselors may write your letters of recommendation!

Take the SAT or ACT. Completing one of these tests before the end of your junior year is a good idea, as you will be able to retake the test again before applications are due, if needed.

Juniors can also begin researching colleges. When researching, you may want to consider a school's location, size, specialty, available extracurriculars, cost/scholarships, and student body.

Senior Year

Maintaining a high GPA is still important in your senior year, as college admissions do look at your senior year GPA.

Senior year is when you apply to colleges, so now is the time to decide where to apply. You may consider early decision or early action, especially if you are confident in a specific school.

Senior year can involve submitting numerous applications. If this sounds like you, you will want to be organized. Find a way to keep track of when each application is due. Writing a high quality essay will also take time, and many drafts. Additionally, you will want to solicit the help of teachers, counselors, coaches, and/or others to prepare and send in recommendations. All of these steps will require organization and planning ahead.

Applying for financial aid is also an important step. FAFSA can open up thousands of dollars in support. You may also apply for scholarships, loans, and grants.

If any of these steps seem overwhelming, don’t worry! You are not alone. Do what you can while maintaining a healthy lifestyle, (take care of yourself), and the rest will follow!

If you enjoyed this article, check out How to Get Your GPA Back Up After a Bad Semester!