Encourage | Inspire | Motivate
My Checklist for a Success Filled Transition to College
Middle School ~ Set Your Sights on College
- Make A’s. Establish goals. Find shadowing and mentoring programs.
- Become a super volunteer. Determine what type of leader you will be.
- Explore your talents, record your ideas, get to know U.
9th Grade ~ Set Your Sights on College
- Make A’s. Establish goals. Take courses that challenge you, and explore.
- Meet with your school counselor to discuss your educational options and opportunities.
- Read your high school’s course catalog and learn the graduation requirements.
- Research and participate in extracurricular activities and community service.
- Explore course options such as AP (Advanced Placement), honors, and IB (International Baccalaureate).
- Research occupational options. Develop relationships. Engage in career exploration visits.
- Find a mentor for personal growth and development, and for educational growth.
- Research costs and ways to save and pay for college.
10th Grade ~ Keep Your Focus
- Make A’s. Review goals.
- Review your course load. Become your #1 career manager.
- Meet with your school counselor and school career advisor. Consider virtual and actual college tours.
- Explore admission testing {PSAT, ACT, SAT}. Plan your summer growth options.
- Talk with family, friends, and mentors about their educational and career choices.
11th Grade ~ Investigate and Prepare
- Make A’s. Reassess goals. Gain and use advice from your team of mentors, coaches, and advisors.
- Take charge of your academic plan. Practice test prep daily. Visit your counselor 3 times.
- Check college admission requirements. Research scholarships, grants, and loans.
- Take the PSAT the third week of October. Register and take other admission tests.
- Attend college fairs and workshops. Take college tours.
- Lead extracurricular and community service organizations. Secure summer employment.
- Develop a list of at least eight colleges {learn the types of colleges}.
12th Grade ~ Don’t Let Up & Don’t Give In
- Make A’s. Review graduation requirements and update your goals.
- Take admission tests. Write essays early. Secure letters of recommendation.
- Talk to your parents / guardians about the future. Narrow list to six colleges.
- Sell yourself and secure funding. Be seen and heard. Finish strong.