💭Imagine this: you’ve paid your deposit, picked out your dorm room decor, and are daydreaming about your first day on campus. But then, something happens and you don’t end up going to college at all. Sounds like a nightmare, right? Well that’s the Summer Melt for ya!

The summer melt is the Boogeyman of college-bound students and strikes fear into the hearts of college access professionals everywhere. You’d think that with all the tech tools and constant emails, we’d have it under control. But nope, the summer melt is still lurking, affecting about 40% of students who plan to go to college and disproportionately affecting low-income students and students of color the hardest.

So, what is causing all the chaos? It could be anything from missing information, incomplete paperwork, or just plain old procrastination. But don’t worry—I’ve got a plan to help you beat the summer melt and make sure you’re sitting in your first class this fall instead of being stuck at home wondering what went wrong.

☀️Here’s your summer melt survival checklist to stay calm, cool, and On Track:

• Secure Your Housing🏠
  Going away for school? Make sure you complete all housing forms and drop that deposit to secure your spot. Nothing melts away dreams faster than losing your home away from home because of a missed deadline.
• Register for Classes📚
  Make sure you get advised to know what classes to take and register to get your schedule locked in so you’re ready to roll.
• Accept Your Financial Aid Awards ASAP💰
  You can’t pay for school if you don’t have any money, so hit that “accept” button before it’s too late.
• Get Through Verification✅
  If you’re selected for verification, don’t panic—it’s just the IRS wanting to double-check your info. This process can drag on, so request those tax transcripts and non-filing letters (if needed), yesterday!!! Waiting too long can delay your financial aid, and trust me, you don’t want that.
• Take Your Placement Exams📝
  No one wants to hear the word “exam” in the summer, but placement tests are a must. Schools use these to decide if you need any extra help or if you’re ready for college-level courses. If you put this off, you might get bumped to the next semester. So, make it a priority!
• Submit All Paperwork✍️
  Immunization records, residency forms—you name it, they need it. These documents are standard but super important. Turn them in on time to avoid any last-minute enrollment issues.
• Settle Your Bill 💸
  Discuss how you are going to pay your bill with your family and give up the cash. Whether it’s a payment plan, loan, or the “bank of mom and dad,” make sure it’s all sorted out. No money, no classes—it’s that simple.
• Attend Orientation🎓
  Orientation is your chance to get familiar with campus life, meet your new friends, and learn the ropes. Plus, it’s usually required, so don’t skip it!

📱To make sure you stay on track throughout your freshman year, download my app, On Track For College. It’s packed with weekly tips, resources, and everything you need to navigate your first semester of college like a pro. Feel free to download using this link https://mizzp.link/ontrackapp and share widely!

🤔Ready to go off to college?
🛒Check out my Amazon Storefront for my college must-haves: https://amzn.to/4bsooSM

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👉Learn more about the author Mizz P. and her offerings here: www.mizzp.nyc