Art Mural (image). Retrieved from: https://www.facebook.com/AtlantisCharterSchool/
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Planning for the FutureJunior Year is here! This year is the best time to create a list of schools you would like to attend, take the SAT/ACT, make up any MCAS if necessary, rock your classes, take an AP course, get a head start on your college essay, and visit colleges.
Keep participating in activities and sports you enjoy and try to take on a leadership role. Remember life is all about balance. Do your homework and prepare for the future but don't forget to have some fun! |
Plan of Action |
• Speak up in class: You will need to ask a junior-year teacher to write a recommendation for you. They can't know you without hearing your thoughts, so make sure to contribute in class. In addition, your counselor will write a letter of recommendation, so visit them in the counseling office and make him/her a part of your growing network. • Get enough sleep: The single most important thing you can do as a learner is to get enough sleep. The average 16-year-old brain needs more than eight hours of sleep to function at 100 percent, and that's exactly where you want to be. • Stay involved: It's great to be able to show you've worked hard, are dedicated to an activity, and can be a leader. • Start building your list: Once you have a handle on your test scores, start talking about your list of target schools, reaches and safeties. Make use of new technology and apps to aid your research. Explore college websites and resources like ed.gov/finaid and U.S. News' Best Colleges. Again, be mindful of your presence on social media and be sure to clean up your Facebook and Twitter accounts. They might get looked at by the colleges you are applying to. • Make some college visits: Spring break and summer vacation are ideal times to check out a few campuses. Also try to attend college fairs and talk with the folks behind the tables. They can give you a feel for their school and some good future contacts. • Write: Procrastination doesn't make for a good college essay. Aim to have first drafts done by Thanksgiving break. |
Junior Year Timeline |
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