College Planning Tips for June

Summer is right around the corner, and you are probably itching to get out of the classroom to sit back, relax, and soak up some sun.  But, just because school is about to be out doesn't mean you should leave your college planning by the wayside. Seniors should keep an eye on their mailboxes for important information from their colleges and should focus on saving up for college by finding a summer job. Juniors should find teachers willing to write their letters of recommendation and work to contribute to their college fund. Check out our full list of college planning tips for June below!

HS Graduates

Carefully read anything you receive from your college, especially a request for additional info. You will likely be getting forms and instructions that must be completed prior to orientation or move-in day. Many schools ask their new students to register online before orientation. If you have any questions, be sure to contact the school and get your questions about the registration process answered.

Request that your high school send a copy of your final transcript to the college you will attend. Notify the college financial aid office of any private grants or scholarships that you will be receiving. Find out when payment for tuition, room, board, etc. will be due, and start thinking about ways to cover additional costs.

Apply for a summer job or consider volunteering at a community service agency. Plan to save a portion of your earnings for college. The more experience you have, the better!

Download the ultimate college packing list to get started on your dorm room planning.

Rising Seniors

The time to apply to college is just around the corner. Prepare for that by asking for letters of recommendation before you leave for summer vacation. Ask teachers you've known for more than one semester, preferably since your sophomore year. It's a better testament to your current academic readiness, personality, and character over time than, say, one teacher you've had for a month or two. Reminding teachers of work you completed in their class that best represents your aptitude and providing them with a resume highlighting your accomplishments is a great idea. This will provide the teacher you chose with the best information to write you a glowing letter and speak to your great job in their class.

Consider enrolling in an academic course at a local college, pursuing a summer school program, or volunteering. If you work over the summer, save money for college. These are all ways to build up your resume. A resume is handy for your letter writers as they can talk about you more outside of the classroom.

Register for the Common Application. This is a universal college application form that is accepted by over 680 schools and has been around for more than 35 years. If you can use the Common Application to apply to at least a couple of the schools on your list, you are in luck. According to college experts, college admissions offices that use the Common Application but also have their own independent application don't put students who submit the Common Application at a disadvantage. That is a big advantage for you if you are low on time and high on stress. 

As always, our counselors are available to help you at any point in your college planning process. Book a free appointment with the College Planning Center!