How to Prepare For College

Freshman/Sophomore Year Action Plans

As soon as they begin high school, many students begin thinking about college.  However planning for college as a high school freshman doesn't have to involve deciding what colleges you want to apply to or what your major will be.  Instead, you will plan the courses to take during high school, think abut what extra-curricular activiites to be involved in and research organizations you might want to volunteer for.

Freshman year:

• Meet with your guidance counselor to discuss your college plans.  Review your schedule with him or her to be sure you are enrolled in classes that will help you prepare for college.
• Take elective courses in topics you find interesting.
• Get INVOLVED in extracurricular activiities.
• Start maintaining a list of your activities, awards, community service etc.  This will make completing college applications much easier when you are a senior.

Sophomore year:

• Meet with your guidance counselor to discuss your college plans.  Review your schedule with him or her to be sure you are enrolled in classes that will help you prepare for college.
• Get more INVOLVED in extracurricular activiities.
• Continue maintaining a list of your activities, awards, community service etc.  This will make completing college applications much easier when you are a senior.
• Attend College Fairs and begin to compare college requirements to your current and future course selections.
• Look for a great summer opportunity - job, internship or volunteer experience.