Creating a Checklist for Junior Year to Hit College Application Goals

I'm a high school junior trying to put together a summer checklist to make sure I'm on track for college applications. What are the key items I should include to maximize productivity this summer?

Building a college preparation checklist for the summer before your senior year is an excellent strategy. Here are some key steps you should consider:

1. Solidify Your College List: Research colleges based on your preferences, such as location, size, academic programs, potential majors, cost, etc. Strive for a balanced list of reach, target and likely colleges. Keep in mind that selective schools appreciate a "spike" or highly developed specialty in applicants, rather than just all-around achievements.

2. College Essays: Begin working on your personal statement and supplemental essays. Starting early gives you enough time to thoughtfully craft your essays and revise them. Avoid cliche topics and focus on unique experiences or perspectives that highlight who you are. Use the essays to fill in gaps or bring up information not seen elsewhere in your application.

3. Standardized Tests: If you plan on applying to schools that require SAT or ACT scores, develop a study plan and register for test dates. Note that schools like Harvard, Purdue, Brown and Caltech are requiring SAT/ACT scores for the 24-25 cycle, while institutions like Columbia, UPenn, and Stanford remain test-optional.

4. AP Courses: While AP scores themselves don't heavily affect admissions, performing well in these classes does show academic rigor. Plan out any AP courses you want to take during your senior year.

5. Letters of Recommendation: Identify teachers, coaches, or mentors who know you well and could write strong letters of recommendation. Most schools require at least one from a teacher in a core subject.

6. Extracurriculars: Colleges value deep involvement, leadership, and impact in a few activities over a wide range of shallow commitments. For example, holding a leadership role within a club offers greater impact than general membership (Tiers 3 vs 4 in the 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars model).

7. Finances: Start conversations with your family about college expenses. Use Net Price Calculators available on college websites to get an idea of potential financial aid and overall cost.

8. College Visits: Virtual or in-person visits can provide deeper insight and help you decide if a college feels right for you. Demonstrating interest isn't a major factor at most selective colleges, but places like Dartmouth do take it into account.

9. Scholarships: Look for scholarships early and consider using resources like the Appily application where you can search for scholarships based on your unique profile.

10. Resume: Compile a high school resume with all your accomplishments, activities, volunteer work, jobs, and awards.

11. Community Service: Identify opportunities that align with your interests and skills. Volunteering can demonstrate commitment to your community and instill values colleges find desirable.

12. Summer Activities: Participate in activities that align with your interests and hobbies. This could be a part-time job, internship, summer program, or even a personal project. Remember that expensive, non-selective programs are not a guaranteed boost to your application.

Remember to take this time to relax and recharge as well. Balancing productivity with downtime will ensure you start your senior year fresh and motivated.