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Class of 2011
Photo Credit: Chelsea Metcalf
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Written by Blake Kaufman, Features Print Editor
As seniors begin to receive their responses from the colleges they’ve applied to, many juniors are beginning to wonder just how they got there. The question of how to prepare for college is raised for the Class of 2011, and it can be a very stressful process if you procrastinate. While graduation for juniors is a year and a half away, now is the time to start preparing.
If you’re interested in a four year university, taking the SATs and ACTs is imperative. While some students only choose to take one of the tests, it is advised to take both. While the tests have several similarities, they are also incredibly different. A student should take both tests in order to see which one they perform better on. Considering you can take the tests as many times as you want, it doesn’t hurt to narrow it down to which test you feel more comfortable taking. Once you’ve achieved a score that exceeds your wildest expectations, it’s time to start thinking about your applications.
Most students that are planning on attending a university have an ideal school in mind. At this stage of preparations, prioritizing comes into play. It helps to make a list of the top schools you are interested in, but be realistic! It is also necessary to have a list of back-up schools that you can apply to, so you don’t run out of options. If you’re not sure which schools appeal to you, ask your parents if you and your family can take a road trip over an upcoming break to look at in-state schools. If that’s not an option, websites such as www.youuniversitytv.com provide a service that allows you to take virtual college campus tours from the comfort of your own home.
At this point, it is time to start applying. By accessing the websites of universities you are interested in, you can download the application and you’re on your way. If possible, start your applications over the summer, so you have enough time to perfect them to the best of your ability. Ask your parents, teachers you are close with, and any other well-educated adults you know, to review your applications before you submit them. Be sure to turn your applications in as early as possible, as some school’s grant early admission because you beat the rush of applicants. Also, applying for the summer semester rather then fall, will sometimes give you an advantage towards being accepted.
So juniors, if you’re starting to stress about falling behind on the track to college, you’re not alone. Take a quick breath because you’re not too late! Register to take your SATs and ACTs, and have a list of colleges and universities that you’re interested in on your mind. It’s time to get started!
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