6 answers
Asked
731 views
What should I accomplish junior year of high school in order to secure a good college?
I plan to be a first-gen grad in the U.S.- because of this, I don't know who to ask question about stuff like this. What should I try to accomplish my junior year?
6 answers
Updated
Priya’s Answer
Hi Anita, it had been a while since I have been in high school so I am no expert, but typically securing good grades in class, on your PSAT and studying for your SATs and/or ACTs (and maybe taking one), as well as exploring college options and their requirements for admissions is on the list. For me, being in the top 10% (ask your school guidance counselor which ranks those are) would help me with admissions, as well as my SAT scores for scholarships. I would also talk to your school guidance counselor about any questions you have too--they are there to help you get ready for your next steps. Also, the internet is your friend and can help you in this way to find what you need to look at and up to date information. Wishing you the best! You are achieving a great thing!
I will put this into consideration, thank you!
Anita
Updated
Madi’s Answer
Hi Anita,
There are a few things to do during your junior year of college to secure your acceptance into good programs. Firstly, you want to maintain a satisfactory GPA. Different schools have different targets. When you look at schools on your list, be sure to read about their GPA requirement. Secondly, you want to achieve a good score on the SAT. Again, different schools have different targets for SAT scores. Thirdly, you want to participate in extracurricular activities like sports, clubs or volunteering. By doing so, you stand out in your application as someone who will bring value to their program.
There are a few things to do during your junior year of college to secure your acceptance into good programs. Firstly, you want to maintain a satisfactory GPA. Different schools have different targets. When you look at schools on your list, be sure to read about their GPA requirement. Secondly, you want to achieve a good score on the SAT. Again, different schools have different targets for SAT scores. Thirdly, you want to participate in extracurricular activities like sports, clubs or volunteering. By doing so, you stand out in your application as someone who will bring value to their program.
This is perfect, thank you!
Anita
Updated
Alissa’s Answer
HI Anita
It is great that you are looking to your success in the future. From a resource perspective, the school should have a student advisor team that focuses on college prep, I would talk to the school office. Additionally as you plan for college, you want to look at colleges that specialize in the area of focus you want to get into. Then reach out to these colleges as they have administrative offices that can also provide guidance. Sammy is right in his list of things to focus on. Most importantly focus on your learning, as the things you learn through both school, volunteering, work etc good bad or indifferent will help you in your future.
It is great that you are looking to your success in the future. From a resource perspective, the school should have a student advisor team that focuses on college prep, I would talk to the school office. Additionally as you plan for college, you want to look at colleges that specialize in the area of focus you want to get into. Then reach out to these colleges as they have administrative offices that can also provide guidance. Sammy is right in his list of things to focus on. Most importantly focus on your learning, as the things you learn through both school, volunteering, work etc good bad or indifferent will help you in your future.
This is great, thank you!
Anita
Updated
Joanna’s Answer
Fellow first-gen student here! Some of the things you should consider in junior year are the following:
1. PSAT
2. SAT & essay and/or ACT & essay (for schools that require it)
3. Begin thinking about different colleges you are interested in and making a list of their requirements/recommendations/tips to becoming a competitive applicant
4. During the summer once school ends, I also recommend you start on your personal statements for the schools you're interested in. I believe Common App (central application service for private schools) and the UCs schools have the same questions every year, so try brainstorming during the summer to ensure you have time to get feedback on your essays from teachers, close friends/family.
1. PSAT
2. SAT & essay and/or ACT & essay (for schools that require it)
3. Begin thinking about different colleges you are interested in and making a list of their requirements/recommendations/tips to becoming a competitive applicant
4. During the summer once school ends, I also recommend you start on your personal statements for the schools you're interested in. I believe Common App (central application service for private schools) and the UCs schools have the same questions every year, so try brainstorming during the summer to ensure you have time to get feedback on your essays from teachers, close friends/family.
Perfect, thank you!
Anita
Updated
Gerardo’s Answer
Great question! I think you should try to be active in organizations your junior and senior year of highschool. Alot of college admission applications ask you to write essays on experiences you have that make you a good candidate for their college. It is always good to have good grades, but it helps to be a well rounded student. Also start to research different colleges and degree plans you may be interested in. It is always great if you can visit a college and get a tour and information about their curriculum. This will make you choosing a college easier.
I will consider this, thank you!
Anita
Updated
Sammy’s Answer
Great question, and I think you are on the right track. the college admissions usually look into those areas -- GPA, class rank, Standard tests (ACT, SAT, etc.), Volunteer hours, Leadership, Recommendations (English, Math/Science teachers, and Counselor). You can prioritize the action items, and be good with time management. Hope this helps.
I see, thank you!
Anita
Delete Comment
Flag Comment
Delete Comment
Flag Comment