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.