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We're smack dab in the middle of the new 2024 FAFSA season, busy helping future college students with the first big step, but today we want to speak to some of the younger students around Western New York. The college planning process really can't begin too early.
Today we want to focus on high school sophomores, and what they should be doing to prepare for their future if they are thinking about attending a university. Let's break it down! Listen up sophomores!
Fall (September, October, November)
You may be able to get a nice head start during these introductory months of the school year. You should consider meeting with your guidance counselor so they know you're planning to be on the college track. You can open up communication with this vital resource of information and ask any questions you may have regarding your classes and plans. It's advised to challenge yourself as much as you can, to best prepare yourself for college life.
If you can, check out a college fair! It will enable you some time to get to know local colleges and be able to start exploring what you may want to go to school for. You should also participate in as many extracurricular activities as you can, as this will certainly look good on a college application.
You may also want to consider looking into taking a PSAT or PreACT test, so you can start preparing and studying for the real SAT & ACT, in order to get the best score you can.
Winter (December, January, February)
If you haven't taken a PSAT or PreACT test yet, you should take one during this time. Winter is a good time for studying, as we can't exactly get outside and go to the park. Once summer comes, you're going to want to get outside and have fun, so take advantage of the time indoors. You should talk to your guidance counselor about your future plans for the SAT and/or ACT tests, so you can be prepared in the future. If you need help with tutoring or SAT/ACT test prep, we can help!
Spring (March, April, May)
As the weather begins to change here in Western New York, you're going to want to start thinking about next year's schedule. Consider getting back into your guidance counselor's office to ask them any questions you have regarding being ready for college. Try to challenge yourself with your junior year classes, because it not only will help you prepare, but taking college level classes could end up saving you money!
Summer is almost here by this point, but try to stay engaged in something productive over the summer. Consider a summer job, internship, or volunteer position to help improve your college resume.
Summer (June, July, August)
Have fun! Enjoy your summer, someday you will miss these days. If you're working a summer job, be sure to do a great job, as you may be able to use your boss as a reference in the future. If you hate your summer job, that's ok, most kids will, and it's a good reminder of why you're going to go to college and earn a career you love! Consider taking a few visits with your parents to visit college campuses you're interested in. If you have a sibling or relative that attended a school you're interested in, see if they're willing to give you a little tour. If not, your parent can reach out to the school to set up a tour. Stay sharp! Keep reading, writing, and studying your desired area of interest. In only a few years, you wont have a parent, teacher, or coach looking over your shoulder to make sure you're working hard at your studies. You will need to be self reliant and responsible for your own stuff getting done, so it's a good time to start practicing.