START EARLY
It’s never too early to start thinking about how you can set yourself apart. Here are some ideas.
9th Graders
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Keep a daily journal. It will develop your personal writing skills, and can help you recall experiences later when you write your essay. (And, it’s a great thing to have!)
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Volunteer. Consider trying different types of volunteer experiences to see what you like best.
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Consider extracurriculars. What is something you’re passionate about? Whether it’s a sport or the school paper, now is the time to get involved.
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Ensure your social media footprint can stand up to any scrutiny from potential college recruiters.
10th Graders
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Immerse yourself in your extracurriculars and volunteerism. Now that you have discovered what you like most, do more of it!
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Start thinking about what type of college experience you’d like to have. Are you interested in Greek life? A small school in a rural area? A city campus? This can help shape and narrow down your future college visits.
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Consider where you can push yourself academically. Are there AP courses or is there an advanced curriculum that can help set you apart during the college application process?
11th Graders
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Work with UCollege to develop your best list of prospective schools.
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Hit the road! Use school breaks to visit the top colleges on your list.
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Start the admissions process.
12th Graders
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Keep your academics buttoned up, turning in assignments on time.
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Make smart decisions inside and outside of school to ensure college admissions officials see your best side.
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Continue making college visits.