College Counseling

Several October 15th deadlines are approaching! Check your college list for early action, early decision, and scholarship deadlines.

Complete your Common App, résumé, essay, and supplemental essays

• Treat optional essays as required. Colleges notice who takes the extra step.
• Give yourself plenty of time to revise and proofread.

SAT/ACT Testing

• Make sure official scores have been ordered for every school that requires them.

Request transcripts and recommendation letters

• Give teachers and the counseling office plenty of notice, remember to submit your “brag sheet”.

Begin your scholarship search
Start researching and applying now, and keep going throughout the school year. Look for opportunities that match your interests, accomplishments, eligibility, and intended field of study.

• Studentscholarships.org
• Scholarships.com
• Bold.org

Also, research scholarships offered by colleges and other reputable organizations. Never pay to apply for a scholarship.

FAFSA and CSS Profile (for required schools) Is Open

The student and at least one parent each need their own FSA ID. Create yours at studentaid.gov.

• Junior year is a key year for college admissions. Keep your grades strong and make thoughtful academic choices.
• Begin researching colleges, majors, and potential career interests.
• Visit colleges in person or virtually when possible.
• Start building a preliminary college list.
• Continue developing meaningful involvement in extracurricular activities, leadership, employment, and community service.

• College planning starts now! Small steps each year make the process much more manageable when senior year arrives.

• Get involved in clubs, sports, activities, or organizations that genuinely interest you.
• Develop strong study and time management habits.
• Explore your interests and potential career pathways.
• Build a strong academic foundation, and plan ahead for challenging courses such as honors, AP, and dual enrollment.
• Explore leadership opportunities.

Start a "College & Career Folder."
Create a digital or paper folder for important information throughout high school. Consider saving copies of:

• Awards and honors
• Leadership positions
• Employment and internships
• Volunteer and community service activities
• Certificates
• Extracurricular activities
• Résumés
• Other important accomplishments

For each activity or volunteer role, also note the dates, total hours, and contact person. Keeping these records will make college and scholarship applications much easier when senior year arrives.

Remember

Stay organized, meet deadlines, and ask for help when you need it. Your College Counseling Office is here to support you throughout the process!