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Junior Year Timeline

 

Fall

  • Meet with your counselor to review the courses you have taken and see what you still need to meet graduation and post-secondary requirements.
  • Check your GPA. It’s never too late to improve. Colleges like to see an upward trend.
  • Take the PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test in October. This is strongly encouraged for all college bound juniors and necessary for anyone wishing National Merit recognition.
  • Discuss your PSAT score with your counselor.
  • Sign-up in the guidance office to attend college representative visits and spring college fair.
  • Stay involved with your extracurricular activities. Colleges look for consistency and depth in activities. 

Winter

  • Make a list of college characteristics that are important to you. Things to consider: cost, location, size, distance from home, public/private, living arrangements, academics, athletics, activities, campus life, safety, reputation/accreditation.
  • Have a discussion with your parents/guardians about your list of colleges. Examine financial resources and gather information about financial aid.
  • If you want to participate in Division I or Division II sports in college, start the certification process. Create an account on the NCAA Eligibility Center to receive a NCAA ID#. Print off the “Transcript Release Form” and return the completed form to Mrs. Carpenter in the guidance office.
  • Register carefully for your senior year courses, making sure that you will have the necessary preparation requirements for college and your intended major. 

Spring

  • In the late winter/spring take the SAT and/or the ACT.
  • If you are considering ROTC or a service academy meet with your counselor to begin the preliminary parts of the application process.
  • Ask at least two teachers to write you a letter of recommendation. Think about asking teachers who know you well and who will write positive letters about you. Letters from a coach, activity leader, or an adult who knows you well outside of school are also valuable.
  • If applicable, prepare writing samples, portfolios, audition tapes, and other material for the fall application season.
  • Make a resume of your accomplishments, activities and work experiences.
  • Discuss the college essay with your school counselor or English teacher.
  • See your counselor to apply for on-campus summer programs for high school student. Apply for a summer job or internship.
  • Schedule visits to colleges while students are still on campus.

 Summer

  • Visit college campuses-call ahead for tour and open house schedules.
  • If a school requires or encourages a personal interview make arrangements meet with an admissions counselor during your visit.