Back to School Checklist for Juniors
⛳Know your starting point
Get an unofficial transcript with your cumulative GPA. You can request it from the counselor. Your GPA will be the basis of the ranges of schools you’ll be applying to.
✏️Academic rigor is important
Sign up for Honors and/or Advance Placements that align with your future major. For instance, if you want to do Pre-Med or Pre-Health studies, you probably want to take all three Sciences - Biology, Chemistry, and/or Physics. Although American colleges don’t have strict HS course requirements, colleges will generally look out for your ability to succeed in college-level courses in high school.
💻Prepare for Standardized Tests
It takes time to achieve your target score. Plan you SAT or ACT test dates accordingly and develop a study plan.
🍎Research Colleges
Whether it’s your dream school, local university, your parent’s alma mater, familiarize yourself with navigating through different college websites. Check out each school’s core values, types of programs and majors, location, financial aid options, student life, campus culture, religious affiliations, dorm styles, and more
⚽Explore and Engage in Extracurricular Activities.
Pursue and apply for leadership roles to show your commitment and dedication
Start early by exploring a variety of clubs and joining the ones you like in the fall semester.
Instead of spreading yourself too thin across 7-8 clubs, focus on 3-4 that really align with your interests, talents, and showcase your leadership skills.
Seek opportunities for community service, research projects, and internships as well.