Preparing for Preparing for CollegeCollege

Steps to making a successful Steps to making a successful transition from transition from

Sandusky High School to CollegeSandusky High School to College

The Junior YearThe Junior YearIn the FALL…Take the PSATOptions after high school:

College? 4yr degree 2yr degree (technical career)

Military?Work?

College – make a list of your interests (ex. programs, size, location, cost)

Gather information – college days & visits to SHSTesting – ACT and/or SAT

In the Winter…Stay involved in outside activitiesOrganize college informationVisit two or three campuses (special visitation)Narrow down choicesTalk with family and teachers, counselors & coachesLearn more about costs and financial aid

In the …

Prepare a challenging schedule for senior yearStart a scholarship searchContact recommendation writersApply for summer jobs/work in the field which you are interestedTake ACT or SAT at least onceContact colleges

Ask about tours, personal interview, meet with professors, application process

In the Summer…Summer job – save moneyVisit collegesTalk with other college studentsOrganize financial aid informationStart working on application essayEarly decision colleges?

The Senior YearThe Senior YearIn the Fall…Continue to visit schoolsFinalize your list of preferred collegesDo well in classes and stay involvedTake standardized tests (ACT/SAT) in early fallKeep track of deadlinesAsk for letters of recommendationMeet with School CounselorComplete applications

In the Winter…Act on Early Decision applicationsFollow up on applications – deposit to hold place in class?Submit FAFSA and other FA documentsSend scholarship applications/materialsSend seventh semester grades, if necessary

In the Spring…

Heard from the colleges you applied to? Follow up!Make sure all local scholarship applications are inCompare financial aid packagesMake final decisionEnsure all financial aid and housing documents have been submittted Sign up for orientation

In the …

Contact your roommateGet your residence hall room suppliesDoes your school have a Common Read?

(a book everyone is expected to have read before school starts)Work hard and save money!Use your graduation money to help pay for books

Fall of College Freshman Year!Fall of College Freshman Year!

That day you’ve planned for is finally here!!! Enjoy, have fun and

GET INVOLVED!