Preparing+for+College

=Preparing for College: Year by Year Timeline=

Preparing for your child's future is not something that can be put off until the last minute. That's why it is important that he or she recognizes the BUILDING PROCESS that begins the very first day of high school, a process that, if navigated well, can be the key to unlock a successful future.

Use the following timeline to find out about what kinds of things your child can do and the best times to do them throughout the four years of high school to put them on the path to success.

9th Grade
Job shadow or participate in career day, if possible Begin constructing a resume Discuss post high school plans with school counselor and parent/guardians Take the most challenging course of study available Join clubs and activities in area of interest Build relationships with peers, teachers, counselors, activity moderators and employers Develop good study habits

10th Grade
Job shadow or participate in career day, if possible Refine/Revise/Update your resume. Keep it simple! Continue discussing post high school plans with school counselor and parent/guardians Review cost factors for college and investigate options Take the most challenging course of study available Begin to look for leadership roles in clubs/activities Select a service area to volunteer with and develop a service activity Strengthen relationships with peers, teachers, counselors, activity moderators and employers-they will be writing recommendations for you down the road! Testing: Check out policies/opportunities at your school Take the PSAT Go to college fairs Continue working on study habits and note-taking skills

11th Grade
Take the most challenging academic program available Demonstrate leadership and responsibility in community and school Begin a list of colleges Gather career information - job shadow or participate in career day, if possible Make the most out of your part time job Talk with college reps and ask them questions Discuss testing plan with your counselor Register, prepare for and take the PSAT/NMSQT Register, prepare for and take the SAT and/or ACT Make college visits Begin to consider which teachers, moderators, or employers you might use if you need recommendations Continue talking with your parents/guardians and your counselor about your plans Request information from colleges Research scholarship opportunities Continue discussing college finances with parents/guardians Attend college fairs

12th Grade
Talk with counselor/parents to finalize post secondary plans Register, prepare for and take the SAT and/or ACT Request college info (including financial aid/housing) Complete Admission Applications Early Decision Regular Decision Rolling Admission Keep copies of apps and forms sent to colleges Write essays/line up recommendations (if needed) Get all financial documents in order Complete FAFSA before February 1, if possible Attend local financial aid information night, if available Research scholarships and eligibility and apply for any applicable scholarships Send mid-year grade reports, if necessary Keep grades up - it matters! Make final decision - mail deposit to ONE school Notify, in writing, all schools of your choice If wait listed, contact admissions office if still interested Contact financial aid office if you have any special financial aid circumstances Make sure you meet all financial aid requirements Request final transcript to be sent to college Keep checklist - MEET DEADLINES!

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Please continue to check the THS Scholarship Website for updated information. This site is being reorganized by the month the scholarship is due. All scholarships are posted as we receive them so please check the website regularly.