College Admissions Guide: High School Junior Year

You’ll hear us (and your parents and teachers) say this a lot: junior year is critical. While there’s no need to break into a flop sweat, take some time this summer to think about how you can thrive.

• Certainly, admissions officers will scrutinize your overall transcript. However, they are likely to give the most attention to your junior year grades and curriculum. Be certain that you are enrolled in challenging, yet realistic courses. If you’ve demonstrated achievement in your college prep classes, consider taking an honors or AP class (or two.)
• Time management will be essential to your success this year. Start working on a plan for the fall that will incorporate your class and homework schedules, extracurricular involvement and other activities.
• As you’re probably aware, you have to do a lot of research before you determine your definitive college list. And when trying to gauge whether or not a school is right for you, nothing beats a campus visit. If you’re traveling with your family this summer, see if you can work any visits into your itinerary. Alternatively, hop in the car with some friends and tour some nearby schools (after all, what summer is complete without a road trip). Be sure to keep a log of your impressions and opinions. This will serve as a handy reference as you revise your list.
• In our humble opinion, the best summers combine productivity and relaxation. Strive to strike a balance between work, play and rest. This will enable you to return to school physically and mentally refreshed and ready to tackle any challenges. Oh, and whatever your plans, be sure to squeeze in some reading. It will keep your mind agile and might even improve your vocabulary (which will certainly come in handy come the SAT/ACT.

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Follow this link for a College Planning Guide geared to the needs of a Junior.