College Planning: High School Freshman & Sophomores
College Planning for Freshman and Sophomore high school students
It is never too early to begin your college planning.
College Planning- Preparing Academically:
Freshman and Sophomore years MATTER which is why beginning your college planning early can make all the difference! Colleges want to see a high school transcript filled with a solid academic record with challenging coursework and consistency. Aim as early as possible in your high school career to take the highest-level courses while maintaining a B or better. Colleges look for rigor in a student’s schedule. Showcasing that you took on this level of coursework from the start will prove just how well prepared you are for college level courses. Don’t wait until the last minute to meet with a college counseling expert. Obtaining college counseling early on in your high school career will ensure that you are making the right decisions and setting yourself up for success down the line. Carefully navigate your path to college by reviewing Advanced Admissions’ High School Timeline. Ensure that you stay on track – making strategic decisions while boosting your college options.
College Planning- Exploring Careers & Majors:
As a Freshman or Sophomore student, you by no means need to know what your future career will be or even what you will major in at college. However, it is important to begin considering your strengths and interests. Is there a particular subject that you have greatly excelled in or shown more interest in? This can help you pinpoint your strengths and build your excitement for Advanced Placement (AP) classes later in high school.
It is never too early to partake in a job shadow or career interview. Never assume that you know what the day to day work of a lawyer or a doctor or a marine biologist is. Seek out an opportunity to sit down with an expert in a field of interest for an informational interview. Take advantage of your career office at your high school. A college counseling expert can also help you navigate appropriate course planning at your high school.
College Planning- Preparing for Standardized Testing:
The ACT and SAT open the door to colleges you are able to apply to during college admission season. Becoming familiar with these tests will help set yourself apart once you are ready to formally take them. Is there a particular subject that you struggle in or test lower than others? Meeting with a tutor who specializes in standardized test preparation can help you learn key ACT and SAT test taking strategies and begin helping you conquer subjects you are not as strong in. Mastering the ACT and SAT is tough. Taking advantage of an expert in the field early in your high school career will ensure that you are your most prepared once it comes time to take the test.
You can learn more about the ACT and SAT here: