College Prep: A Student To-Do List for Fall
by Lynette Mathews

High School is a very busy time for students and their parents. For the college bound student it becomes even more frantic come junior and senior year. But it doesn’t have to be! With a bit of pre-planning, you and your student will be more relaxed and better prepared to make important decisions. So get out your calendar and take a few notes on what to do in the months to come!

Freshman and Sophomore Students
Many students ask, “When is the right time to think about college?” The answer is a resounding, “NOW!” Here are some things your freshman or sophomore student can do:

• Meet with a high school counselor to develop a four-year academic plan. Research college requirements (not just high school graduation requirements) to ensure you’ll complete all the required classes.
• Schools are looking for students with a passion, or those who have shown a commitment to something (anything!). Look at your extracurricular activities to see if they reflect your passion. Find community service and leadership activities that reflect your interests, and work to fit these into your schedule.
• If you plan to play college sports, continue to check the NCAA website for qualifications throughout your four years in high school: www.ncaaclearinghouse.net.
• Visit colleges during your family vacations. If you can visit when school is in session, that’s even better! Don’t forget to visit schools near you as well as those farther away.
• Sophomores can consider taking the PSAT test given in October. It is a practice test for the SAT tests you will take Junior and/or Senior year. The College Board offers a score report that gives you personalized online academic preparation using the results of your PSAT test. It is the most beneficial way to prepare for future tests.
• Read!

Junior Students
Keep your momentum up with challenging classes and extracurricular activities. Your grades junior year are closely scrutinized by many college admissions offices. Focus activities and jobs toward your interests and plan to demonstrate leadership and responsibility this year.

• Talk with your parents about financial options. Begin researching scholarships and financial aid if needed.
• Sign up early to take the PSAT in October. Check www.collegeboard.com for dates, tips and a practice test.
• Think about what you want out of college—your preferences, interests and abilities. Make a list of key college criteria to help you narrow your list of choices.
• Use your criteria to make a list of 15-20 schools to research. Visit as many as you can and start narrowing down the list to those schools where you will apply.
• Consider an SAT Prep course (there are online options and local organizations).
• Attend College Fairs and representative meetings in your school and community.
• Contact colleges of interest and request applications. Check important dates and financial aid information.

Senior Students
You’re on the home-stretch! Keep your efforts up with academics and activities. Beware of Senioritis!

• Determine what Letters of Recommendation you will need and ask early! Be sure to include a resume and stamped, addressed envelope for everyone who is completing a recommendation for you.
• Narrow your list of college applications to somewhere between five and ten schools. Get a system to help you track application dates, fees, transcripts, letters of recommendation and other important deadlines.
• Write application essays. Think about what you want admissions offices to know about you that they won’t be able to tell just looking at your transcript. Ask others you trust to help edit your first draft.
• Request that your high school send your transcript to schools where you are applying.
• Send in applications. Some schools offer early action admissions, others offer early admissions, and some even offer rolling admissions. So be sure to find out the deadlines, and get your applications in on time! Call colleges to ensure all application materials have been received.
• Determine your strategy for paying for college. Parents and kids should estimate college costs and discuss ways to pay. Look into financial aid if needed, including federal and state programs, as well as individual college aid and scholarships. Keep copies of all documents you send or email.
• Write thank you notes to those helping you succeed in your college efforts.

Lynette Mathews is freelance writer and independent college counselor for College Connection in Folsom, CA. She can be reached at 916.932.0453. www.collegeconnect.org