Use your summer to read, attend pre-college camps, take enrichment classes, or seek employment – this is a great opportunity to better your verbal, writing, critical thinking and leadership skills. NC State has a listing of pre-college programs.
11th Grades: Pedal to the Metal
Make sure you are on track to meet the minimum course requirements for college admission
Register to take the SAT and/or ACT multiple times (Ask your TRIO Coordinator for a fee waiver).
Narrow down your list of colleges based on where you will thrive best. Keep in consideration the school’s size, location, whether they have the major you’re interested in and extracurricular activities available. You can research schools on College Board.
Attend college fairs in your area to speak with admissions reps from schools you are interested in.
Find an internship or volunteer opportunity in the field you plan to study.
Use breaks (winter break spring break, and summer) you have from school to visit colleges.
Make a list of teachers, coaches, and community members that you may be able to ask for recommendation letters when you apply to college.
Research application and scholarship deadlines and requirements for your senior year.
Remind parents/guardians to prepare tax information for your financial aid application.
12th Grade: Home Stretch
Fall
Visit the Senior website to familiarize yourself with everything you need to know about applying.
Schedule your one on one Fall Senior Meeting with your TRIO Coordinator.
Select 3-5 colleges – a reach school, safety school and match school.
Mark application deadlines on your calendar (Early Decision vs General application deadlines).
Ask your TRIO coordinator for a fee waiver (SAT/ACT and/or College Application Fee Waivers)!
Reach out to your teachers, coaches, and community members for letters of recommendation.
