Are you thinking of making an early decision regarding college? It might be wise to seriously consider it. Here are some things to think about and begin to do in your Junior year in high school.
Take both SAT and ACT Tests:
- Depending on how well you do, you can take a prep course or buy SAT and/or ACT books at your local book store.
- Costs for taking these tests do add up so make sure you are prepared and rested for each test.
Talk to People:
- Talk to your teachers, guidance counselors, high school alumni, family members and friends about their college experiences.
- Ask questions; others love to tell you their stories.
- Stay in close contact with your guidance counselor - they should play a key role in providing information.
Identifying Colleges:
- Are you seeking a small college environment or a large university?
- Are you considering living at home or living away in a rural setting or big city?
- What type of programs does the school offer (liberal arts, sciences, engineering, etc.).
- What is important to you personally in deciding on a college?
- Identify 15 colleges that align with your personality, career interests and personal interests.
- After research, narrow the scope to 5 to 7 schools; you should have three top choices but always have at least two safety net schools in case things don't work out. These numbers can vary but remember you will pay an application fee for each as well as fees for sending test scores.
- Make a list of your "must haves" in college and compare your "must haves" with other items such as academic requirements, location, size, cost, programs, etc...
- Check the GPA and SAT/ACT score requirements of each school.
College Research and Preparedness:
- Review applications to see what type of questions they are asking - this may give you an indication of what you might need to add to your college resume, i.e., volunteer work, club activities, etc.
- Review college essay requirements and begin crafting your essays.
- Some applications are much more involved and time consuming than others which is why an early start is a great approach.
- Find out what each school's early application and early decision process involves.
- Approach each application individually and not with a generic approach. Colleges are seeking students who take the time to add their personal touch.
- Start visiting your college choices early on and make it a goal to finish by the Spring of your Junior year. Ask yourself if you see yourself being happy there. If not, don't even apply.
- Begin to ask for reference letters from teachers, coaches, counselors, etc... It takes people time to write a strong reference.
- Start to research scholarship opportunities.
Stayed tuned tomorrow for Part II of THE TIME IS NOW!
Feel free to contact Carrie Robinson directly at Carrie@CollegeEdgeCoach.com if you have any questions.
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