High School Seniors – It’s Time to get Busy!
HIGH SCHOOL SENIORS – IT’S TIME TO GET BUSY!
by Antoinette Battiste
The summer before your senior year of high school is rapidly coming to a close. You’ve spent the summer visiting colleges, working summer jobs, participating in summer enrichment programs and maybe – just maybe – thinking about the dreaded college application process. And yes, some of you have started – and maybe completed – your personal statement for college applications. Regardless of how you spent your summer, there’s more work to do! Let’s chat!
The most important thing for seniors to do right now is to get organized. You will be juggling lots of activities along with your academic work, so creating a system that will help to keep you on task in each of those arenas will be invaluable. It is helpful to create lists for several reasons – you identify what needs to be done and as you complete tasks, you have a visual record of your accomplishment and that always makes you feel better!
Next, it is very important for you to start the new school year with a strong work ethic. Now is NOT the time to slack off in classes and let senioritis kick in. Don’t believe the hype that senior year doesn’t matter. Poor performance in the classroom can be a deal breaker for many students. Admission officers also frown upon students taking a very light course load during senior year.
So, what should you be doing related to the college application process?
- Finalize your college list
- Register and do test prep for the SAT and/or ACT and SAT subject tests
- Secure teacher and counselor recommendations
- Write and re-write your personal statement and supplemental essays
- Have conversation with your parents about college affordability
- Attend local college fairs
- Contact the college admission representative responsible for your geographic area
- Attend information sessions at your school and other locations in your local area
Parents you have a role in the process, too! Recognize that this is a stressful period in your child’s life. Be supportive. Become familiar with the deadlines to which the student is working. Help them brainstorm about personal statement topics. Assist without hovering. Most importantly, ask your child how they would like for you to support them in the process.
Remember this process is a journey. Students should own it, drive it and give yourself options for many paths to achieve your goals and dreams. Good luck!
