5 Ways Juniors Should Prepare for College

If you’re a junior, you’re likely already considering finding and getting into the best college for you.

This is great!

We have a few tips for you.

They will help you identify what is important to you, go after it, and stack evidence that you will contribute to a college.

You may find new interests, too, in your junior year! These are great to pursue deeply as well.

Colleges want to see the distance you’ve traveled as a person and with your achievements.

This list will help you have a great junior year.

  1. Grades play a part. It is worth the effort to pursue your highest grades possible. If you have a major in mind, advanced classes in that area are something colleges may expect.
  2. Make a community impact. Go bigger with your areas of interest. Show initiative and commitment to making an impact beyond your school, clubs, or teams.
  3. If you’re testing, prep. Schools are moving towards test optional. For specific majors, however, strong test scores can help. Studying and preparing will improve your scores if you decide to test.
  4. Research colleges and plan visits. Many tools and professionals can help you find the best variety of schools to apply to and visit. At first, focus more on target schools than safety and reach schools.
  5. Start writing your essays early. April or May is the best time to start brainstorming, drafting, or working with a coach. Write, rewrite, and polish your essays over the summer so you can avoid getting buried with work in the fall and submit less than your best.

The most essential thing in Junior year is to live your best life. Show up fully in all you do and go further with your areas of interest.

This is the year to give it your all!

Schedule a free consult for a plan specifically tailored for you.

Kate Stone

Kate Stone

Founder, Head Coach
NYU Graduate, Princeton Fellow

Kate is a highly regarded college application coach, renowned for her ability to transform students' essays into compelling narratives that reflect their unique identities. She excels at fostering a motivating and encouraging environment where students gain confidence and overcome challenges like writing anxiety.

Her personalized approach tailors each session to the student's specific needs, whether it's structuring the essay writing process, brainstorming ideas, or providing guidance. Parents have praised her for helping their children improve their abilities and self-assurance, making her not just a coach but a trusted mentor and friend throughout the college application journey.