Best Decisions for Seniors in High School: A Comprehensive Guide
As a senior in high school, you are at a crucial juncture in your academic journey, facing decisions that will shape your future. From academic planning to developing leadership skills, and getting ready for college applications, there are several important steps you should take to ensure a smooth transition to higher education or your career goals. Let's dive into the best decisions you can make in your senior year.
Academic Planning
Academic planning during your senior year is critical to setting you up for success in college and beyond. While graduation may seem imminent, the actions and decisions you make now will have a profound impact on your future academic and professional life.
Review and Schedule Standardized Tests
Most students take standardized tests like the SAT or ACT during their junior year, but it's important to start early to prepare. By registering for the earliest possible test date in August or September, you can make sure that your review and practice during the summer are fresh and effective. Additionally, stay informed about any changes in testing requirements, as many schools have made standardized tests optional due to the pandemic. For instance, the SAT Subject Tests have been discontinued. Ensure that if your dream school requires these scores, you take the test at the earliest possible date.
Finish 12th Grade Strong with Challenging Classes
Seniors should aim to finish their high school career with challenging classes, such as Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) courses. Despite the stress of college applications, it's crucial to maintain a rigorous academic schedule. College admissions officers take your final semester grades seriously and your AP scores can influence your eligibility for college credit, particularly for introductory classes.
Make Sure You Are on Track to Graduate
At the beginning of your senior year, check in with your academic advisor or school counselor to ensure you are meeting all graduation requirements. Additionally, stay informed about your college application process and seek advice on preparing financial aid, personal statements, and more.
Developing Leadership and Extracurricular Skills
High school is not just about academics; it's also an opportunity to develop leadership and extracurricular skills that colleges will value. Here’s how you can make the most of these experiences:
Continue to Develop Leadership Skills
Often, seniors have the opportunity to take on leadership roles in clubs or organizations. If you're not in a leadership position, focus on other skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and collaboration. Students involved in arts and sports should discuss application strategies with their college counselors, coaches, and teachers to ensure they are highlighting these experiences effectively.
Narrow Down Your College List
By the start of your senior year, you should have narrowed down your college list to around 7-10 schools. Categorize your list into 'dream,' 'reach,' and 'safe' schools. Dream schools are where your stats might place you at the bottom 25th percentile, reach schools at the middle 50th, and safe schools in the top 25th. Consider application timelines, such as Early Action (EA), Early Decision (ED), or Regular Decision (RD), and make informed decisions based on all factors.
Preparing for College Applications
Being prepared and organized is key to a successful college application process. Here are some essential steps:
Have All Application Materials Ready
Before creating an account with the Common Application or Coalition Application, ensure that your school’s application is on these platforms. Some schools might have their own separate application portals, such as MIT or Georgetown. Keep track of deadlines and prepare all the required materials, including high school transcripts and letters of recommendation. Your school counselor and teachers will send these forms to colleges.
Start Working on Financial Aid
Start preparing for financial aid early. Apart from completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the CSS Profile, check financial aid resources and connect with free services that help in applying for scholarships. The FAFSA and CSS Profile will determine your eligibility for grants, loans, or work-study programs. Schools and private organizations also offer scholarships for incoming freshmen.
Final Tips
Once you've completed all the checklists, you can breathe a sigh of relief. While the results may not be final yet, the pressure and stress you've faced during this process are part of the journey. College applications are a valuable experience, and the choices you make now will greatly impact your future. Don't forget to thank your parents, teachers, mentors, and classmates who supported you throughout this challenging yet rewarding process.
Good luck as you navigate the next steps in your educational journey!