For many students, college is the clear next step after high school graduation. They never have any doubt about attending college, but they may not know what steps they need to take to prepare. As a college preparatory school near Tampa with a college planning program that focuses on both academics and character values, we have created a guide for families of college-bound students.
Freshman Year: Building Foundations
Freshman year is the perfect time to start establishing skills and exploring interests. Students should use this time to build good study habits and learn how to manage their time effectively. While academic preparation is always a priority, it’s also important for students to figure out who they are and what they enjoy. During freshman year, students should begin exploring their interests, finding extracurricular activities they like and causes they’re passionate about supporting.
Sophomore Year: Academic and Personal Growth
When students discover what they enjoy doing and what their academic goals are, the next step is to dive in. During sophomore year, students should start becoming more involved in what interests them. This means meeting with counselors to discuss academic plans and making an effort to attend events in clubs and organizations. During sophomore year, students can begin exploring college options and seeing what they require.
Junior Year: Focused College Preparation
By the time they reach junior year, students should be ready to start taking on more responsibility. This is the time to explore leadership roles at school and in the community. While college applications and essays shouldn’t be a sole focus, going for opportunities that would look good on a college application never hurts. College research should begin in earnest around this time. This means getting more involved with activities like going on college visits and attending information sessions. Students can also benefit from starting SAT and ACT preparation around this time so they can approach these tests with confidence in their senior year.
Senior Year: Making Decisions and Transitioning
Senior year is go time. Students need to be focused on finalizing college applications and essays, leveraging the networks they have built during their time in high school. Gathering letters of recommendation from teachers and other leaders should also be a primary focus. Students should find ways to celebrate their accomplishments during their time in high school through their college essays. During senior year, students need to focus on preparing academically, emotionally, and spiritually for the next step in life.
At Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School, a preparatory school near Tampa, we understand that for college-bound students, getting ready for college is an integral part of the high school experience. We support students with individualized classroom instruction, extracurricular opportunities, and individualized college planning that focuses not only on academic achievements but also on building character rooted in Catholic values. Discover how we can set your student up for success by contacting us today.
