Guidance News

Spring 2022

College Planning for Juniors

Counselors recently met with all juniors to discuss important information regarding the college planning process. Among the many topics discussed were:

-SAT/ACT Registration

-Test optional schools

-How to find the right college match

-Factors that make a student stand out in the admissions process

-College visits, tours & open houses

-Application process and supporting documents

-When to apply: Early Action, Early Decision, Regular Deadlines

-Difference between high school and college

-Resources available to help with college planning

Individual Meetings

In the weeks to follow, counselors will be meeting 1:1 with each junior to discuss GPA, post-secondary plans, graduation requirements and course selection for the upcoming school year.

Event Information

College Admissions Seminar for Parents of Juniors

Some of the topics to be covered:

-The college admissions process

-Current trends in college admissions

-Campus visits, open houses and finding the right fit

-Developing a college list

-Application timeline

When?

Monday, Apr 4, 2022, 05:30 PM

Where?

High School Auditorium

Upcoming SAT/ACT Dates

SAT

May 07, 2022

June 04, 2022

August 27, 2022

-Register at collegeboard.org

ACT

June 11, 2022

July 16, 2022

-Register at act.org

Test Optional Colleges

While we encourage students to take the SAT and/or ACT, there are many colleges that are considered test optional. For a list of test optional schools, go to fairtest.org.

Preparing for the SAT/ACT

For practice tests:

SAT

-go collegeboard.org

-For students who took the PSAT, be sure to link your scores to Khan Academy for a personalized study plan.

ACT

-go to act.org

Bridgewater State University

-Offers SAT prep classes during the weekends in the spring and fall

The admissions process: What makes a student stand out

Colleges are looking for students who are well-rounded.

-GPA & rigor of academic coursework

-SAT/ACT Scores

-Letters of recommendation

-Essay

-Extra curricular activities: sports, clubs, community service

-Leadership qualities and special talents

-Work

zoom_out_map

What to look for in a college

When researching a college, learn about the schools that you are interested in. Consider the following factors:

-Average GPA of admitted students

-Testing requirements

-How selective is the school/percentage of students admitted

-Is the school public or private

-Tuition

-Location

-Majors offered

-Campus life (athletics, clubs)

-Internship opportunities

Tools to help you with your college search

MEFA Pathway (mefapathway.org)

This is a comprehensive college and career exploration tool. All juniors have an account with this program and can use it in school and at home.

College Board (collegeboard.org)

Students should become familiar with this website as it offers important information on SAT registration, practice tests and test-taking strategies. In addition, the site offers college, career and financial aid information.

College Websites

Students are encouraged to explore college websites to access important information such as: admissions requirements, how to apply, majors offered, deadlines, etc.