By now, emails from school administrators may be starting to appear in your inbox. Class schedules are being released soon. It’s a sign that summer is drawing to a close, and that you’ll soon be back to the daily routine of the school year.
By all means, make the most of these last few weeks of vacation. Sleep in, spend time with friends, and unwind! But, it’s probably time to start thinking about the upcoming academic year, too.
School is fast approaching, and now is an excellent opportunity to get organized and prepare for what’s ahead. This should definitely include scheduling some downtime for yourself; looking after your mental and physical well-being is crucial. But, having a plan and setting some basic goals can help reduce stress and make the transition back into school an easier process.
This is especially true for incoming Seniors. At this pivotal stage in your journey, it’s essential to recognize the various significant aspects that demand your attention. This is a prime opportunity to get a head start on managing the inevitable pressures and take vital steps toward preparing for your future. Here are some tips for your senior year:
Make a Plan
Drafting a schedule for the fall semester is one of the best things you can do to get ahead of the hectic pace that typically comes with the season.
This is the perfect moment to begin strategically planning your deadlines and. For instance, if you haven’t started yet, try prioritizing which essays to write first. Staying organized will help make the application process seem more manageable, allowing you to gauge your workload and set a comfortable pace.
Develop a plan that harmonizes college applications with your academic responsibilities and extracurricular engagements.
Build Your College List
Review your college list, make any necessary adjustments, and ensure it remains well-rounded. Carefully consider if you want to pursue “early decision” and/or “early action” applications. Keep in mind that these programs have earlier application deadlines and may require more preparation.
Additionally, start researching the application requirements for each college you are considering. This will help you understand what materials you need to prepare and get a head start on gathering them.
Plan Your Admissions Essays
Many colleges require — or at least encourage — applicants to write an admissions essay. So, now is the time to start brushing up on your writing skills.
If you haven’t begun yet, it’s critical to learn what constitutes an outstanding college essay and to engage in brainstorming activities. Aim to have your personal essay completed or at least have a robust draft by the end of the summer.
Since most college applications and supplemental questions are released on August 1st, being prepared to tackle them as soon as they are available will be highly beneficial. The earlier you start, the more manageable your senior year will become.
Show You’re Interested
By now, you should have a shortlist of institutions you’re planning to apply to and it’s crucial to express your interest. Make sure colleges are aware of your enthusiasm for them.
Colleges frequently visit high schools, organize local information sessions, or participate in larger college fairs. These events are excellent avenues to explore various institutions and potentially establish personal connections with admissions representatives. Additionally, consider scheduling college visits. Keep in mind that schools often monitor the level of interest prospective students show.
Finish Up Testing
You probably took your SAT or ACT during Junior year. But, it might be worth considering whether to take the test one more time.
Review the average scores for your top-choice colleges. Are your scores in the range that those schools typically look for? Make sure you make a well-informed, wise decision. Testing can be very stressful, but if it gives you the chance to boost your score significantly, it can be worth it.
Finally, be aware of the specific requirements for each school regarding what scores need to be submitted.
Research Your Options
You probably won’t need to declare a major until well into your college career. But, exploring various college majors and programs is an excellent strategy to align your interests with potential academic paths. It will also help you pick out the right classes to take to help you pursue that path.
Understanding which majors are most prevalent at different institutions and identifying the specific strengths these programs are known for is critical. Additionally, you might discover intriguing majors you hadn’t previously considered!
Discuss Financial Aid & Scholarships
It’s important to have a conversation with your family about finances. You need to know whether you’ll be seeking financial aid or merit-based scholarships. Also, to what extent finances will influence your college selection.
This crucial information will allow you to strategically plan your research and application choices well ahead of time. Don’t wait until the last minute to have this discussion. The earlier you know, the more time you’ll have to address any concerns.
In Conclusion…
Embarking on the journey to college is a significant milestone and requires thoughtful preparation and decision-making. From understanding the importance of standardized tests to thoroughly researching your academic and financial options, each step plays a crucial role in setting you up for success.
By carefully considering your test scores and school requirements, exploring diverse majors, and having open discussions about financial considerations, you can ensure that your college choices align with both your ambitions and practical realities.
Remember: this process is a foundation for your future. So, take the time to make well-informed decisions that will lead you toward a fulfilling college experience and, ultimately, a rewarding career.