PLANNING FOR COLLEGE ADMISSIONS

Colleges look for a balance between academic rigor and involvement outside the classroom. That means your course selections, including AP classes and your overall GPA, are essential. If you have not finalized your 4-year plan yet, you can access your task on CounselMore and set up a meeting to finalize course selection.

Simultaneously, start researching colleges through resources like the Fiske Guide, official college websites, and virtual or in-person visits to help identify schools that align with your aspirations.

OTHER TASKS

Resume & Leadership Development: Your resume should reflect your accomplishments, leadership experiences, and unique qualities. Begin creating or updating your resume by highlighting activities that matter to you, whether that is through honor societies, school clubs, sports, or starting a new initiative. Leadership roles, even short-term ones, showcase your ability to take initiative, so be sure to run for positions during March and April elections.

Summer: Summers of your high school can add value to your college applications, so make the most of this time of the year! Look for internships, paid work, or academic enrichment opportunities, even if they are not for credit. This is a time to build experiences that will strengthen your application and give you clarity about your career goals.

Test Planning: Sophomores are encouraged to take diagnostic versions of both tests in April to see which fits best. Preparation, including tutoring if needed, should begin in August, with the goal of taking the official tests in November or December of Junior year. Always take both exams at least once, and don't let tutors steer you toward one without clear reasoning—it's about finding your best personal fit.