What are the most important steps to take in high school when preparing for college?

Hi everyone, I want to make the most out of my high school years. I know grades and test scores are important, but what other aspects should I focus on? Should I start looking into colleges now, or is it too early as a junior? Is there something special I should be doing to make my college application stand out when the time comes?

First, it's never too early to begin looking into colleges. As a junior, you are in the prime position to do some research, take campus tours (virtual or on-ground), and begin crafting a list of colleges that align with your academic goals and interests. It's also a great time to begin preparing for standardized tests, such as the SAT.

Adding to this, keep in mind the importance of rigor in your coursework. Admissions officers are interested in seeing you challenge yourself within your school’s offerings. Consider taking AP or honors courses, if they are available and you are ready for them.

Extracurricular activities play a considerable role in the admissions process as well. Involvement in clubs, sports, volunteering, or working a part-time job not only enriches your high school experience but also demonstrate your interests and commitments. Aim for depth over breadth: a few meaningful activities where you have demonstrated commitment and leadership will be more impactful than a larger number of activities that you only participated in briefly.

One of the most underrated elements that can shape a standout application is your genuine, authentic narrative crafted through your essays. This is your opportunity to share something unique about yourself that isn't evident elsewhere in your application. Avoid cliche topics and instead, write about a singular moment, experience, or passion and how it has impacted you as a person.

Lastly, don’t forget to foster relationships with your teachers and school counselor. Strong relationships can lead to meaningful recommendation letters which add another layer of depth to your application. They often provide insights about your character, work ethic, and resilience, that grades and test scores can't.

Just remember, the process can feel overwhelming, but take it one step at a time. You're already on the right track by starting to think about these things now. Good luck!