Sophomore Checklist

Fall

• Schedule and make sure you are taking the right classes to graduate and to get in to college.
• Take challenging classes.
• Get involved with extracurricular activities.
• Go to a college fair in your area. When you go, be prepared with a college fair checklist.
• Take the PSAT or PLAN. Check with your counselor about registration.

Winter

• Talk to your guidance counselor and teachers about taking SAT Subject Tests.
• Get extra help if you need it from your teachers, counselor or other students. Take advantage of NYGEAR UP tutoring programs.

Spring

• Start thinking about next year's schedule. Prepare a list of questions about being ready for college to ask your counselor: availability of and enrollment in AP classes; the possibility of taking college-level courses before you graduate from high school and the schedules for PSAT, SAT I and II, PLAN, ACT and AP exams.
• Think about what you'll do this summer. Consider an internship, job or volunteer position.

Summer

• Start researching colleges, and consider all the types of colleges. Check out college websites and talk with family, friends and teachers.
• Explore careers. List 3-5 careers that interest you and the education you will need. Consider volunteering or a job shadow to learn more. (see “what Do You Want To Do with The Rest of Your Life)
• Start researching how to pay for college, and how to get financial aid.
• Start looking at scholarships and grants – FREE money.