High School Students

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Freshman Year

• Be aware of the Sweet 16. The core academic courses recommended for college admission will play an important role in the opportunities that will be available to students in their senior year.
• Focus on grades and academic performance each and every year, but definitely start in the 9th grade.
• Take note of the resources and opportunities around you. As a student, or as a family, mention your college plans to your teachers and counselors.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help. The transition to high school can often be challenging, but open communication between a student, their family, and high school staff can help to make the transition a smoother one.

Sophomore Year

• Get involved outside of classes or consider service in your community.
• Consider honors courses in classes in which the student achieved success in their freshman year.
• Visit colleges and universities.
• Explore academic and career pathways that the student might already show a passion for. Pathways may change, but developing the skills to explore these pathways will help a student throughout their academic and career journey.

Junior Year

• Revisit the Sweet 16 early in your junior year.
• Seek leadership in your school involvement or your community service.
• Consider dual enrollment and AP (Advanced Placement) courses. These courses can help students prepare for college, while earning college credit. College credit earned in high school results in less classes needed in college which can help a student save on their college costs.
• Add value to your out of school time! Determine what extracurricular activities, volunteer/shadow experiences, or summer programs can help you further explore the academic and career pathways you are interested in.
• Go above and beyond in all that you do!

Senior Year

• Apply early and don’t miss deadlines. Be ready to package your academics and experiences as you apply for admission or for scholarships.
• Stay on Time - Many of these processes can occur outside of the below time periods, but we are often asked about a recommended timeline.
  • July through September - Apply to colleges and universities.
  • October through December - Don’t forget that financial aid and the FAFSA can help some families with paying for college. Begin applying for scholarships outside of what the university might offer.
  • January through March - Consider scholarship awards, financial aid packages and begin considering the college options you have earned.
  • April through May - As you move toward deciding on the college you will enroll in, take note of the “next steps” for enrollment.
  • May through July - Participate in May 1’s National College Decision Day by announcing which college you will enroll in! Celebrate your high school graduation and consider summer bridge programs that can help you in this next transition.