Preparing for College Steps to making a successful transition from Sandusky High School to College

The Junior Year In the FALL …  Take the PSAT  Options after high school:  College?  4yr degree  2yr degree (technical career)  Military?  Work?  College – make a list of your interests (ex. programs, size, location, cost)  Gather information – college days & visits to SHS  Testing – ACT and/or SAT

In the Winter…  Stay involved in outside activities  Organize college information  Visit two or three campuses (special visitation)  Narrow down choices  Talk with family and teachers, counselors & coaches  Learn more about costs and financial aid

In the…  Prepare a challenging schedule for senior year  Start a scholarship search  Contact recommendation writers  Apply for summer jobs/work in the field which you are interested  Take ACT or SAT at least once  Contact colleges  Ask about tours, personal interview, meet with professors, application process

In the Summer…  Summer job – save money  Visit colleges  Talk with other college students  Organize financial aid information  Start working on application essay  Early decision colleges?

The Senior Year In the Fall…  Continue to visit schools  Finalize your list of preferred colleges  Do well in classes and stay involved  Take standardized tests (ACT/SAT) in early fall  Keep track of deadlines  Ask for letters of recommendation  Meet with School Counselor  Complete applications

In the Winter…  Act on Early Decision applications  Follow up on applications – deposit to hold place in class?  Submit FAFSA and other FA documents  Send scholarship applications/materials  Send seventh semester grades, if necessary

In the Spring…  Heard from the colleges you applied to? Follow up!  Make sure all local scholarship applications are in  Compare financial aid packages  Make final decision  Ensure all financial aid and housing documents have been submittted  Sign up for orientation

In the …  Contact your roommate  Get your residence hall room supplies  Does your school have a Common Read? (a book everyone is expected to have read before school starts)  Work hard and save money!  Use your graduation money to help pay for books

Fall of College Freshman Year! That day you’ve planned for is finally here!!! Enjoy, have fun and GET INVOLVED!