Action Plan: High School Freshmen

Applying to college can be a daunting process. Luckily, with the help of this timeline, you can feel confident when application deadlines draw near. Well, except for those pesky stomach butterflies. If you follow this schedule, you will be more than ready when the time to apply rolls around. While your classmates run around ripping out their hair, you can sit back and relax. By then, this will all be a piece of cake.

Meet With Your Counselor

Your counselor can help you plan a schedule and choose sufficiently challenging classes. When reviewing your records, colleges take into consideration both your GPA and the amount of effort required to earn it. If you were not automatically placed in advanced classes, think about asking to be placed in them. Many high schools will allow you to move to an accelerated class if you are successful at the current one. Others will want you to pass a test if you would like to change your schedule. Whatever the requirements, it doesn’t hurt to try.

Involve Yourself in Extracurricular Activities

Getting involved in outside activities will make your application stand out. Whether it’s finding a part-time job, joining a club, or helping out in the community, becoming a part of something shows that you could handle more than homework. Colleges are interested in someone who is unique and who will contribute to their school. Whichever activity you choose, stick with it. Being able to commit to high school activities shows that you will likely commit to college ones.