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“The secret of getting ahead is getting started.” – Mark Twain
What can YOU do right now to get ready for college?
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Freshmen
- Map out a good course plan for your high school career
- Identify extracurricular activities that you ENJOY and CARE ABOUT
- Try new things
- Start keeping track of accomplishments, accolades, leadership roles – your RESUME
- Athlete? – make sure you take your high school’s NCAA core courses to make sure you take the right classes
- Artist, Writer, Performer? – start thinking about building a portfolio, enter competitions
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“The way to get started is to quit talking and start DOING!” – Walt Disney
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Sophomores
- Take the PLAN (ACT practice test)
- Take the PSAT (SAT practice test)
- Start to narrow down the extracurricular activities to those you can SHINE IN
- What leadership roles could you achieve this year/next year?
- Start thinking about what might appeal to you in a college
- Think about which colleges you might like to explore
- Visit colleges near you – HINT register for the tour – demonstrate interest
“The scariest moment is just before you start.” – Stephen King
Juniors
- The Year of the Test
- Determine what kind of test prep is right for you
- Focus in on SAT or ACT
- Survey your values and goals
- Identify college list based on interests, values and goals
- Visit colleges while in session – register for tour
- Email Admissions Contacts for your area to indicate interest and ask questions
- If an athlete email coaches and fill out recruiting questionnaires
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“A year from now you will wish you had started today.” – Karen Lamb
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Seniors
- Identify – ask Recommenders
- Determine Application Strategy
- Apply to Schools
- Send thank you note to Recommenders!
- Complete Financial Aid Applications
- Select School and Pay Deposit
- Prepare for Graduation!!!!!!!
“Sometimes life hits you on the head with a brick. Don’t lose faith!” – Steve Jobs
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