Planning for College Years

Welcome to the monthly blog of the Upper School College Counseling office!

As students navigate the Fall semester in high school it is vital for them to focus on planning their college years. College decision making is a serious business and is one of a long series of decisions that will help them define their careers. With this in mind, I would like to present a few hints for your children on how to prepare for their college planning agenda.

Know your-self well- your strengths and weaknesses, your likes and dislikes. Understand your grades and academic decisions. Take a career inventory questionnaire.

Research your options- A full range of postsecondary possibilities that may interest you. Attend college fairs, consult your college counselor.

Consult the people who can help you evaluate this process. These include your college counselor, parents, teachers, and financial aid advisors.

Choose where you will apply and the process it entails- Taking standardized test ( SAT, ACT and PAA ( College Board of Puerto Rico) ), maintaining good grades, involving yourself in community service and extracurricular activities, attending college fairs, career week and many others,

Remember you are now at a time in your life where you will need to take control and become organized. Keep your papers in order and keep a special calendar so that you do not miss deadlines. Above all, do not procrastinate. Before you know it, senior year will be here and if you prepare yourself beforehand the frantic time during that year will be easier to deal with.

General tips:

• If you have not held any leadership positions while in high school, now is the time to step up and assume leadership of one of those organizations.
• Review college materials, college guidebooks, and other resources to narrow your college list.
• Consider virtual college visits and interviews at your top college choices.
• Stay focused on grades.
• Continue registering for your standardized tests if you have not reached your optimum scores.
• Be sure to include in your schedule challenging classes.

Until next time! Enjoy the summer.