News

While New York Times has discontinued The Choice Blog, which was a HUGE help for students and parents, it seems still worth revisiting to check its archives. On June 4 2013, The Choice blog published "June College Checklist for Juniors," admission advice from Kristen Learner, the director of college counseling at The Benjamin School in Pal Beah Gardens, Fla., and Jeffrey Wong, a college counselor at the school. Following is the list from them:

Resist the Lull

Don't succumb to warm weather and "the sweet promise of sleeping past 7 am."

Finalize Your Senior Schedule

Your senior year schedule should be your most rigorous to date as colleges would like to admit students who are entering their academic prime. Seek the advice of your 11th-grade teachers, your counselor, your parents, etc to create the best possible schedule.

Ask for Teacher Recommendations

Think about 11th-and 12th-grade teachers who can describe your academic abilities and performance. Ask these teachers if they are willing to write a letter in your support. If they hesitate, consider asking someone else.

Begin Your Summer Plans

Your plans can include a summer job, an internship, camp, travel, classes, community service or all of the above.

Evaluate Your Testing Plan

Evaluate your standardized testing plan. Check if any of the colleges you are considering require subject tests.

Start Writing Your College Essay

It is a good idea to start writing your essay in the summer, even if you won't complete a final draft in June. College essay is a good opportunity to tell the admission committee who you are, what you value, and what they would not know about you from the rest of your application.

Fulfill Specific Requirements for Athletes and Artists

If you are an athlete, create an athletic resume and collect highlight film footage. Artists should prepare an art portfolio or a piece to perform for auditions according to their prospective colleges' requirements.

Visit College Campuses

Do information sessions and tours, as well as spend some time exploring  and learning about college communities. Take notes and keep a journal to prepare for the "why would you like to attend our college" questions.

Consider How You Will Pay for College

Talk with your family about paying for college. With financial aid, even the most expensive institution can become the most affordable. Check colleges' financial aid office websites and contact them with questions.

Read, Relax and Recharge

Enjoy your time off, finish your summer reading and be ready to start strong in the fall!

To read the whole article, please check this link: http://thechoice.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/06/04/counselors-calendar-june-juniors-2/#more-52504