Preparing for College Admissions: What High School Juniors Should Know

Welcome to 2024! As the new year rolls in, please remember that it is a great time to start getting organized and prepared for college admissions. The following list offers insight into what you can do now to help ease the stress of college admissions. For more information, please visit PEAK.

1. Academic Focus: Ensure you take challenging courses that align with your interests and potential college major. Work hard to maintain good grades. Consider advanced placement (AP) or honors courses if available.

2. Standardized Tests: Start preparing for standardized tests like the SAT or ACT. Take practice tests, consider prep courses if needed, and aim to take these exams in your junior year or early in your senior year.

3. Extracurricular Activities: Participate in extracurricular activities that interest you. This could be sports, clubs, community service, or leadership roles. Quality over quantity is essential, so focus on activities that you're passionate about.

4. Research Colleges: Begin researching potential colleges or universities you're interested in attending. Consider factors like location, programs offered, campus culture, and size. Attend college fairs or visit campuses if possible.

5. Build Relationships: Cultivate relationships with teachers, mentors, and counselors. These relationships can lead to valuable recommendation letters for college applications.

6. Start Drafting Essays: Consider essay topics for college applications. Brainstorm and start drafting essays. This will give you ample time to refine and polish them before application deadlines.

7. Financial Planning: Start researching scholarship opportunities and financial aid options. Understanding the costs associated with college and available financial resources will be beneficial.

8. Time Management: Develop good time management skills. Balancing academics, extracurricular activities, and personal time is crucial in college.

9. Explore Interests: Use this time to explore your interests and potential career paths. This can help you make more informed decisions about your college major and future goals.

Remember, the key is to maintain a balance between academics, extracurriculars, and personal growth. Enjoy your high school experience while preparing for the exciting journey ahead in college!