| College-bound juniors have many tasks to complete this year! Even though it seems graduation is a long way off, it will be here before you know it�so don�t fall behind in your preparations for life after high school! THINGS TO DO THIS YEAR: Begin serious research on colleges. You will need to narrow your choices to three or four by the end of this year, and plan to visit your choices next summer. You also need to be sure you will have taken the recommended coursework to be eligible for admission. We have college information available in the counselors� office area, just inside the door. Be sure to bring an admit if you plan to spend some time. You can also visit many schools online. There are a number of websites that can provide information�see the article entitled, "Recommended Websites" for these addresses. Sign up for and take the PSAT. This is the year the PSAT score will count for National Merit Scholarship competition, so don�t miss it! It is given just once a year�in October�and costs about $10. We will administer the PSAT this year on Tuesday, October 15, so plan ahead. Registration will begin around the middle of September. Prepare to take the SAT and ACT for real during second semester. There will be preparation classes available through the school district (see me for dates), and there are many books, software, and online test preparation materials you should try to review. See �Recommended Websites� in this bulletin to find these resources. Registration materials and study guides for both the SAT and the ACT can be picked up in the counseling center for this year�s administrations. Or go online to www.collegeboard.com (SAT) or www.act.com (ACT). Of course, it goes without saying that, in preparing for college, you need to take the most challenging coursework available and make the best possible grades. If you haven�t already, this is a good time to start thinking about your GPA and class rank, as these are two of the considerations in college admissions. Begin developing study habits that will not only help your high school courses, but will give you a strong background for college coursework. TIP: Be sure to read your Junior Bulletins this year! |