Hey juniors,

​

It's around the time of year that you'd start considering college admissions. Here are some suggestions:

​

1. Start Exploring College Options:

• Begin researching colleges and universities that interest you. Look for institutions that offer your desired major, align with your family's financial situation, and have social activities that appeal to you. 

​

2. Use College Search Tools:

• Utilize resources like SuperMatch in Naviance and BigFuture on the College Board website. These tools can help you narrow down your college options based on your criteria.

​

3. Learn About College Fit:

• Watch the College Greenlight webinar about "College Fit" to understand the importance of finding a college that matches your needs and goals.

​

4. Consider Extracurricular Activities:

• Think about the extracurricular activities you'll want to include on your college applications, such as work, internships, volunteering, or sports. Consider continuing hobbies or exploring new ones.

 

5. Volunteer Opportunities:

• Explore local volunteering opportunities, both in-person and virtual, to gain valuable experience and give back to your community. 

​

6. University of California (UC) Application:

• Start thinking about the four Personal Insight Questions (PIQs) required for UC applications. Choose the questions that best reflect your experiences and prepare your answers as if you were in an interview.

​

7. Common Application Essay:

• If you plan to apply to colleges using the Common App, review the essay prompts and brainstorm ideas for your essay. Writing your essay during the summer can save you time in the fall.

​

8. Prepare for Counselor Letters:

• If you anticipate needing a counselor letter for your college applications, start by completing the resume and questionnaire in Naviance. Be thorough and follow any requirements from private/out-of-state colleges.

​

9. Explore Majors:

• Research various majors that interest you and look for descriptions on college websites. Different colleges may use different names for the same major.

​

10. Relax and Recharge:

• Remember that summer is also a time for relaxation. You don't need to complete all of these tasks during the summer break. Prioritize self-care and relaxation to ensure you start the school year refreshed.

​

11. Plan Ahead:

• Use the summer to get a head start on your college preparations. By tackling some of these tasks early, you can reduce stress during your senior year.

​

12. Stay Organized:

• Create a schedule or checklist to keep track of your college research, essay writing, and other tasks. Staying organized will help you manage your time effectively.

​

13. Seek Support:

• Don't hesitate to reach out to your school counselor or teachers if you have questions or need guidance. They are there to support you in your college journey.

 

Remember that the summer before your senior year is an excellent time to begin preparing for college applications and exploring your interests. By taking proactive steps, you can make the college application process more manageable and enjoyable. 

 

Good luck!​