Junior Year Checklist

Many experts believe that this year is the most important because it is the one that will be most scrutinized by college admissions departments.  If you’ve been slacking, this is a critical time to buckle down and show colleges what your academic abilities are.  If you’ve been working hard already, keep it going. 

Summer

_____ During your summer vacation get a job.  Even if it’s only part time it is something that you will be able to list on your college resume.  Many jobs will also introduce you to potential career interests.
_____ Start thinking about what field of study you may want to pursue.  It’s not uncommon for young people to be uncertain of what career choices they want to pursue.  Don’t stress out if you’re not sure what you want to do
for the rest of your life.  On the other hand, if you have an interest in a specific field such as nursing, engineering or something else with a strong scientific emphasis, then it is important to make sure that you are taking the appropriate courses to emphasize your interest and prepare you for the rigors of college. 
_____ During your summer vacation stop by a college campus that you think you might like to attend.  Just acquainting yourself with a campus will make the process real and may help you focus your time and energy.

Fall

_____ Make sure your course selection challenges you academically and work hard to achieve the highest grade possible.  Consider enrolling in Advanced Placement courses that may provide you with college credits.
_____ Find out what your GPA and Class Placement are and set a goal to improve in both categories.  Colleges will look at these when considering you for admission. 
_____ Seek election to a leadership position in a school club or organization that you are involved with. 
_____ Prepare yourself to take the PSAT in October.  The Guidance Dept. will have the applications and any other information you need.  This test may help you to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Competition and it
will prepare you for the SAT.
_____ Start thinking about what type of college you might want to attend:
Size:     Small  - under 5000 students
Medium – 5,000 to 15,000 students
Large -    15,000 + students
Location:  Proximity to home, climate, geography, etc.
Profile: Catholic, Technical, Private, Public, Liberal arts emphasis,  Business emphasis, etc.   
_____ This will help to narrow your search down when deciding where you will apply. 
_____ Buy an SAT prep book or software with sample questions and set aside some time each week to take some of the practice tests.  These questions are the ones you will see on the real test.

Winter/Spring

_____ Attend an ACT/SAT preparation course or workshop.  The Guidance Dept. will have information on local programs including some that are offered right at the school.
_____ Start researching colleges that interest you and request information from them.  Make an appointment with the Guidance Department and ask the counselor for suggestions as to colleges that you should consider but may not have thought of on your own.  Remember, the Guidance staff members typically have personal relationships with representatives from many different colleges and the experience and advice they can share is invaluable.
_____ Start visiting the campus of each college where you expect to apply.  Take the campus tour, visit with advisors/faculty, and pick up the admissions packet.  If possible, schedule a visit during a time that school is in session so you can talk with students and get a feel for campus life.  Consider some of the options available to prospective students such as attending an open house, taking part in an overnight program, or seeking an interview with admissions staff.
_____ Take the SAT and or ACT during the spring.  This will give you at least one score going into your senior year and it will put you on the mailing list for schools you are considering.  Remember, you can take the test three times and colleges will consider your best score.