Getting Ready for College: A Guide for 11th Grade Students and Parents
Junior year is a critical time to start preparing for college.
As an independent educational consultant, I’m here to help you navigate the exciting yet sometimes overwhelming journey toward college admissions. Here are some helpful tips to navigate the process.
As an independent educational consultant, I’m here to help you navigate the exciting yet sometimes overwhelming journey toward college. Junior year is a critical time to start preparing, so here are some friendly tips to ensure you're on the right track.
1. Focus on Academics
Your grades matter now more than ever. Colleges will look closely at your junior year performance, so aim for excellence in all your subjects:
Stay Organized: Use a planner to keep track of assignments, tests, and deadlines.
Seek Help: If you're struggling in a subject, ask your teachers for extra help or consider hiring a tutor.
Challenge Yourself: Enroll in AP or honors courses if available.
2. Get Involved
Extracurricular activities make your college application stand out:
Quality Over Quantity: It’s better to be deeply involved in a few activities than superficially involved in many.
Leadership Roles: Take on leadership positions to demonstrate your ability to manage responsibilities and lead a team.
3. Build Relationships with Teachers
Your teachers will likely write your recommendation letters, so it's important they know you well. Participate in class, ask questions, and show interest in their subjects.
4. Prepare for Standardized Tests
Many colleges are going back to requiring SAT or ACT scores. Start preparing early to avoid last-minute cramming. Take practice tests and consider prep courses if needed.
5. Research Colleges
Start researching colleges to get a sense of what you’re looking for:
Visit Campuses: If possible, visit a few colleges to see what you like and don’t like.
Use Online Resources: Websites like College Board and Naviance offer tools to help you find colleges that match your interests and goals.
6. Create a College List
Develop a list of potential colleges. Include a mix of reach schools, match schools, and safety schools. Keep refining your list as you gather more information.
Get Guidance for Your College Journey
College Trek Consulting sends out tips and resources for navigating the college journey.
7. Stay Informed
Keep up with important dates and deadlines for college applications, standardized tests, and financial aid. Missing a deadline can be costly.
8. Talk to Your Counselor
Your counselor is there to help you navigate this process. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or concerns.
9. Take Care of Yourself
Don’t forget to take care of your mental and physical health. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, eating well, and finding time to relax and have fun.
10. Talk Finances
It is a difficult subject, but we have conversations as a family about what is affordable and who will pay for what. Do the net price calculator to help determine college costs.
This year is all about laying the groundwork for your future. Stay focused, be proactive, and remember, there are people to support you every step of the way. Make your junior year a successful and rewarding one!
Gail Nichols, Independent College Consultant for over 12 years. Helping students to find their college is my passion.
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College Trek Consulting offers programs for families navigating the college process. Get in touch to discuss your plan.
