It’s time to study a little harder, raise your grades and start making a list of colleges you’re interested in. You’ll also be preparing for, and taking, your first standardized tests. Follow the timeline below to remain on track to be accepted in the college of your choice:
Update your 5 Year Education Plan
Plan and take challenging high school courses that are in alignment with the TOPS/Regents Core Curriculum and meet college entrance requirements Take the PLAN Test (October/November)
Start preparing for the ACT. (Visit ACT Central)
Start attending college fairs (web site reference)
Save money for college (you can never have too much) possible open a bank account.
Get involved in extracurricular activities
Volunteer in your community
Learn keyboarding and computer skills
Study hard and do well in school – From now on your grades will count toward college and will show up on your permanent record
Start to attend events on college campuses (plays, concerts, sporting events, etc.)
Get to know your high school counselor and let them get to know you and your goals, career aspirations, schools you are considering, etc.
“Job shadow” someone who does what you think you’d like to do (that means to follow them around for a day).
Register in April for the ACT test that you will be completing before June
Review the college you want to attend.
Update your file of important documents (copies of awards and honors, report cards, list of school and community activities)
