Take grades seriously, they represent your work ethic. Most college decisions will be based on grades earned through the junior year.

Challenge yourself with higher level courses.

Seek leadership positions in extracurricular activities.

Update your activities document from freshman year.

Attend local college fairs.  Dates and locations change each year, but traditionally fairs are held in September and October. Families will be notified of scheduled events through the monthly College Counseling Update.

Take the PSAT seriously.  Scores are used to qualify for the National Merit Scholarship Program.  Students can only qualify for National Merit with scores from the Junior year.

Sit for the ACT and/or SAT at least twice. Full details, including test prep and registration, can be found at www.collegeboard.org or www.act.org.  Be sure to provide the FBS school code 410388.  Providing the code enables the school to access your official scores.

Meet with the College Counselor to begin the college search process.

Meet with admissions representatives when they visit campus.  This is a great way to learn a lot about a college in a short period of time. Visits are traditionally scheduled during lunch or immediately after dismissal.

Make a list of possible majors and career interests. The College Counselor can help identify possible areas of interest.

Tour college campuses with your family over breaks and the summer.

Make a list of 5-7 colleges that you would like to consider applying to next year.  Colleges should be well researched and chosen based on your interests and abilities.

Gain experience through a summer job, internship or volunteer opportunity

Prospective student athletes need to register with the NCAA Eligibility Center at www.ncaa.org.