When To Do Stuff
Summer
Go Wild for Books
Whether you’re into biographies, fantasy, sci-fi or fiction, spend free time reading this summer. Reading more will strengthen your vocabulary, reading comprehension and test scores.
Flex Your Math Muscles
Exercise your mind over the summer by trying out apps that put your math skills to the test. Flexing those math muscles will put you in better shape for learning new concepts.
Fall
Consider Your Classes
When school starts up, map out a plan to do well in your classes. If you have questions or need support, talk to your counselor or a mentor so you can stay on track.
Test the Waters
In the fall, sign up to take the PSAT or PreACT. Check with your school counselor or look online to find out any registration deadlines.
Put Yourself in the Lead
Continue to develop your leadership skills by taking on more responsibility in clubs and other school activities. You can also create an opportunity for yourself if you see a need that’s not being met. You’ll learn new skills, gain confidence and show colleges that you’re not afraid to take things on.
Make the Grade
Focus on understanding content and do your best to get As and Bs. Your academic performance and grasp of the material you’ve been learning are really important in preparing you for college.
Enjoy a Home Court Advantage
Take advantage of visits by colleges to your school and district. Without having to travel far, you can attend college fairs and events hosted by college admissions representatives and current students. You’ll be able to learn what different schools offer and get a feel for the type of college you might like to attend.
Do More of What You Love
Get more involved in extracurricular activities that interest you so you can continue to develop your passions. Colleges will appreciate that you took the initiative to learn more about the things you love to do.
Winter
Become College Curious
Start researching colleges on college search sites, such as BigFuture. You’ll get a better idea of what colleges have to offer and what types of schools might suit you best.
Make Every Dollar Count
Spend time looking for scholarships and grants that may be a good fit for you. You can search online and with your college counselor. Once you know what’s out there, you may be able to shape your experiences in a way that will make you an even better fit.
Spring
Spring into Summer Planning
This spring, spend time researching summer opportunities including summer enrichment programs and courses. They’re an excellent way to develop your passions and skills while making new friends and having amazing experiences.
Count Your Votes
This spring, run for top roles in clubs, student government and other activities that excite you for 11th grade. You’ll build leadership skills, show initiative, discover new strengths and help define your voice.
Put Colleges on the Map
Make plans to visit colleges and universities with family and friends so you can see what your future might hold. Watch virtual tours online to see even more places that interest you.
Stay Two Steps Ahead
Sign up for Advanced Placement (AP), International Baccalaureate (IB) or honors courses in subjects where you excel for 11th grade. Taking them will help strengthen key skills, like writing and problem-solving, and your desire to challenge yourself will impress colleges.
Get Your Foot in the Door
Apply for summer enrichment programs, internships, volunteer opportunities and jobs so you can build on your passions and skills during the break. The more experiences you have, the better you’ll know yourself and what you want in your future.
Learn All You Can
Sign up to take some classes over the summer. You can study something you’re interested in but don’t have time for during the school year, get ahead in a subject and maybe even earn college credit. Colleges will appreciate your drive to learn.
Anytime
Be a Problem Solver
Brush up on math, old concepts and new, with the help of Khan Academy. A little extra effort will help put you in a good place to take math to the next level.
Seek out Support and Guidance
Be on the lookout for someone who would make a good mentor. It could be anyone from an older student or teacher at your school to a relative or family friend. Mentors can give you the inspiration, guidance and support you need to reach for your dreams.
Circle of Friends
To stay focused, form a study group with friends who have similar college goals. You can learn together, support one another and help each other keep your eyes on the prize — college.
Read up on Residency
Have questions about citizenship and residency requirements for college? Start exploring the answers by talking to counselors and looking online for the states where you might like to attend college.
Set Your Sights on Deadlines
Start to familiarize yourself with important deadlines related to student loans, like the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
