With summer vacation rapidly approaching, some students might focus solely on catching up on sleep and binge-watching all the shows and not display one iota of concern for the upcoming school year; however, many rising seniors might miss out on an opportunity to get a jump-start on their college applications.  With the competitiveness of college admissions (University of Florida accepts only 23.3% of applicants) and an increasing feeling that their four years in high school are all about building a résumé for college applications, the pressure to succeed while also trying to enjoy their last years of being a “kid” leaves students overwhelmed.  What can teenagers do to accomplish their academic goals and secure their future academic plans without feeling such immense pressure?  

For those considering the university route, Jodi Hammer, founder of Educate For Success, advises her clients “to be honest with yourself about what you want out of college.” She asks teenagers the big questions: Do they want to attend a big school or small school? Are they interested in Greek life?  Do they plan on staying in-state or is out-of-state an option? What do they want to do after college? What’s the budget?  This information is vital in helping students select a university that maximizes success. “Once you know the answers [to the aforementioned questions], then work toward the decision that is best for you,” Hammer explains.  This helps students to focus on what they want their college experience to be.

College advisor Kandice Freedman, an ESE advocate and academic specialist, also works with students to meet their individual goals that help them succeed on their learning journey.  “High school students who want to attend college should start preparing early by researching colleges,” Freedman points out. She also suggests it is important that they challenge themselves academically by taking rigorous courses, but she recommends to not let their egos hinder success. Many students take classes that are too difficult and time-consuming; ultimately, they do not perform well, thus hurting their GPAs.  Instead of taking every AICE or AP course available, select the advanced courses that relate to one’s future area of study.  For instance, a student considering pre-med might take AP Biology, but someone interested in law school should consider AP Government. 

Additionally, early prep for the SAT, ACT, and CLT is imperative.  “Though many schools have gone test-blind, a strong score always sweetens the application,” Freedman continues.  It is also helpful to establish a good connection with a teacher or counselor on campus.  “A strong letter of recommendation can make a difference in the application process,” she states.   

Rising juniors, take note: Admissions officers will mainly focus on junior year grades, and it is highly important to prepare for standardized tests. Marjorie Licht, Director of College Advising and Senior College Advisor at Milestone College Prep, also offers sage advice.  “Start early!” Licht suggests.  She recommends that students don’t wait until their senior year to think about what they are looking for in college. “In 10th or 11th grade, plan your classes and activities to help you achieve your goal,” she says.   

With so many future aspects out of one’s control, what students can control is to challenge themselves in areas that are their strengths, to start preparing early, to participate in dual enrollment – if one can handle the workload – and to get involved in activities and clubs. 

Above all, stay positive! Whether one takes a gap year or immediately enters the workforce or applies to a university, there are many paths to the same goal.  The most important advice is to “Go after a path that is what you want, not what or where your family wants,” Hammer encourages.