Freshman and Sophomore Year
This is your time to discover your interests.
-
Join clubs.
-
Play sports.
-
Work a job.
-
Volunteer.
-
Develop leadership skills.
-
​Begin studying for the SAT.
-
Take 4 years of a language.
Junior Year
It all starts to feel real. ​
-
Take on leadership roles in sports or clubs.
-
Found a club, activity or volunteering opportunity.
-
Research colleges online and engage with their social media.
-
Begin to build a college list.
-
Tour colleges that pique your interest.
-
Take the SAT or ACT.
Summers
Summer break is a great time to build a stronger resume and a stronger college application. Here is a list of completely optional things you can do to strengthen your application.
​
-
Work a job or an internship.
-
Volunteer (especially ongoing consistent volunteering at one place - great for an additional letter of recommendation)
-
Study abroad.
-
Invent, design, create something.
-
Learn a language.
-
Take a college course.
-
Research colleges without pressure - focus on potential majors.
-
Start your common app essay.
-
Study for and retake the SAT or ACT.
​
Senior Year
Application Time!
-
Finalize college list.
-
Finish common app essay.
-
Organize and complete supplemental essays.
-
Request letters of recommendation.
-
Make a game plan for early action or early decision applications.
-
Complete Common Application.
-
Complete any other application platforms.
-
Schedule and prepare for interviews.
-
Apply for scholarships.
-
Check college portals for updates.
-
Send thank you cards to counselors and recommenders.
-
Choose the school that is best for you!