here is what high school juniors should do from April - June

Here is what high school juniors should do from April through June. These next three months are super important for your college applications. So what you do from April through June determines whether senior year is chaos or completely under control. Here is exactly what to do. In April, finalize your standardized testing. If you haven't taken the SAT or ACT yet, register for the May or June test now. If you've already taken it, decide if you're retaking or if you're done. Also, your AP exams are coming, don't slack on studying. These scores can get you college credit and save you thousands of dollars. Also, in April and May, ask your teachers for recommendation letters before the school year ends. Ask them now while they remember you and give them your brag sheet with your activities, accomplishments, and what you want to study. Teachers write better letters when they're not rushed and when they have context. In May, start building your college list. You want 8 to 12 schools that are a mix of reaches, matches, and safeties. Research specific programs, not just school names. In June, start brainstorming your Common App essay. No need to write it yet, but you should be thinking about it.