Do I really need to start planning for college when my child is only in 9th grade? YES! - the earlier the better!
4 Year Planning
Many think that planning for college is something that can wait until junior or even senior year of high school. Unfortunately, by this point, you may have missed significant opportunities that could set you apart. Since the admission process for colleges has changed over the last few years, it is critical to find distinctive ways to stand out from the competition and truly highlight your unique talents and abilities. The inflation of grades, optional submission of SAT scores, and unethical reliance on AI for essay and personal response completion make the application process that much more challenging for colleges and students. This is why it is imperative to meet with a college and career transition coordinator at the beginning of high school to develop a four-year plan that will promote greater success and broaden opportunities and experiences.
9th Grade
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Establish a four-year plan before entering 9th grade that identifies the career path selected and explores the necessary courses and clubs that will help support success
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Take challenging courses (core and electives based on the district's requirements). Elective-based courses should reflect diverse interests.
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Job shadow - set up one to two job shadows to explore future career interests. These are typically excused absences. BE SURE TO SEND A THANK YOU NOTE to the person you job shadowed.
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Build positive relationships with teachers and peers.
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Explore sports, clubs, and activities. Recommended that a student be involved in at least 3 clubs/activities that show multiple interests.
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Meet with guidance to set up a Naviance account to establish a four-year plan.
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PERSONAL
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Build your resume framework
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Find local organizations to volunteer outside of the activities associated with school-based clubs/activities.
9th Grade
The Year of Exploration & Opportunity
10th Grade
The Year of Commitment & Maturity
SCHOOL​
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Take challenging courses (Core and elective based on the requirements of the district). This year, start taking the more advanced electives in the area you would like to pursue after graduation.
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Job Shadow - two shadows in the career field you would hope to pursue. In most districts, job shadows are an excused absence.
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Take the PSATs. If you want to practice, start taking the FREE practice exams that are available online.
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Pursue leadership opportunities within the clubs, activities, and athletics Colleges want to see MEANINGFUL involvement so purposefully commit to your extra-curricular activities.
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PERSONAL
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Add all awards and honors to your resume.
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Continue to volunteer at local organizations. Consistency shows dedication and commitment
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Over the summer, study for your SATs/ACTs
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Consider working with the youth in clubs/activities you are already interested in (leadership opportunity!)
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Begin discovering internship opportunities for your junior year
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Attend college fairs
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Begin creating a list of potential colleges to visit throughout junior year
11th Grade
The Year of Responsibility & Independence
SCHOOL​
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Take advanced-level classes. AP classes are a great option
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Complete an internship in the field in which you want to pursue
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Be a high-level leader in at least one school-based club or activity in which you are in charge or organization or facilitation
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Take the SATs/ACTs at least once
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Review the Naviance account or the platform your school uses for the college application process
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Ask for letters of recommendation from teachers (by the end of the year)
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PERSONAL
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Continue to add to your resume (honors, experiences, employment)
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Find employment
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Complete college campus searches (must be done by the end of the summer of junior year)
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Determine if you would apply early action or early decision to any colleges
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August 1 - Begin your common application.
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Finish the common application essay. Be sure to have your essay reviewed and edited by a professional.
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Begin submitting applications
12th Grade
The Year of Choices & Diligence
SCHOOL​
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Take advanced-level classes. Maintain a rigorous course schedule
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Complete an additional internship. Be sure this is focused and truly supports your career interests
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Submit all applications
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Leader club and activities
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PERSONAL
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Continue volunteer - Be a leader in one of these organizations
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Begin FASFA documents (Fall/Early Winter)
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Consider accepting a summer research or early experience at your future college
