Freshman Year
When students become freshmen, everything starts to count! Freshmen grades are used in determining GPA and class rank, and freshmen activities, honors, and awards can all be listed on college and scholarship applications. Involvement in school and extra-curricular activities will make high school more rewarding.
* Make sure you stay on top of your progress reports, attendance and grades. Take the initiative to talk to your teachers about your progress, and take advantage of teacher's suggestions for improvement. In 9th grade, you're expected to seek the help you need, and it's good preparation for the independence you'll need in college. Parents should provide encouragement and support for their students, especially if they need academic help.
* Get involved

Sophomore Year

Update your files of activities and honors.

Junior Year
The junior year is the most important academic year for college preparation. Juniors should consider their options carefully, take standardized tests, and make college visits.
* PSAT will be given in October for National Merit consideration and last practice for SATs.
* Take ACTs if you haven't already, or if you need to improve your scores.
* Students should use the summer to explore a passion (job, internship, academic course work, sports camp, travel, community service).
* Decide which teachers and others you will ask to write your recommendations.
* Schedule visits to your top schools.