Sophomore Strategies - the great "College Hunt"

When I'm talking to Sophomore students and their families, I give them a list of things they should be doing this year to prepare for the great "college hunt", which begins in earnest in Junior year.

1.  Take the PLAN test.  Make sure you sign up at your high school and take it in 10th grade.

2.  Consider taking the PSAT, also.  When taking the PSAT don't forget to check the box that gives permission for universities/colleges to send you information.

3.  Make sure that your email address is APPROPRIATE.  Colleges will be using this.  What you think is funny/quirky as an email, may not be funny to an admissions officer.

4.  Email or call schools and request information regarding programs you are interested in.  Example:  fine/performing arts programs;  5 year BA/MA programs.  Colleges keep tabs on how interested you are in their college. 

5.  Make a list of colleges/universities you want to visit this year.  Visit at least three or four this year.  Keep the information in a file that you can access easily.

6.  Request a transcript from your high school registrar.  You do not need an "official" transcript.  Check the classes and grades posted and make sure it is accurate.  You should get a transcript after every semester and check for accuracy.

7.  Create your resume that includes clubs/organizations you belong to and offices you have held.  Include school activities and community activities on the resume. 

8.  Keep all your "college hunt" information in one place.  Information stored will include PLAN/PSAT/ACT/SAT test scores; resume; college visits information, transcripts etc.

9.  Start thinking about how you will spend next summer.  Will you take a Community College class, volunteer in a hospital, go to Upward Bound, or take classes at a university? 

10.  Keep your grades up.  Ask for assistance early in the semester.  Don't wait to get help.
 
Most of all keep smiling, enjoy the journey and have fun. 

A New School Year!

Well, you've had a great summer.  You've rested, travelled, read, and had fun.  It is now time to assess where you are academically and what you need to do for the next BIG STEP. 

For high school juniors this is a crucial year.  Not only do you have to step up your game academically but you have to seriously move forward on your hunt for a college/university that suits your goals in life.  Now, I don't mean to totally scare you and freak you out, but it is important that you start NOW.  Keep a running list of schools that appeal to you.  Don't just think of the schools that have won the Rose Bowl or the schools that everyone else is talking about. 

There are over 3,000 colleges/universities in the USA.  The playing field is big, so you have to start your search and investigate early.  I suggest spending a few hours each weekend searching the web or contact your school counselor or a local educational consultant to assist you.  As you search, your list will become big.  You can always edit the list as you move along on your great college hunt. 

Also, don't forget to sign up for the PSAT and the SAT in the spring along with subject tests.  DO NOT WAIT until senior year to take these tests. 

OK!  Are you ready?  Get set!  GO!    Have a great year.