OMG! I can’t even believe how fast this year went. I feel like I blinked once and it was over. You know what that means right? The school year is upon us again my friends. (Enter dramatic music here) Time for the madness to begin!

If you have yet to start on your college and career and plan, allow me to help you maximize this month to move you one step closer to your goals. Summer will be gone before you know it so try getting some of the following tasks off your list as soon as possible. 

Parents

Have a conversation with your child about their future plans. What is it that they want to do? What schools are they considering? How far is too far? 

Sit down WITH your child to do some research so you don’t get blindsided by high costs or unrealistic expectations. This step is super important. (Trust me on this one).

Create a budget and start saving! College is expensive….So are applications, test fees, deposits and other costs associated with senior year. Don’t get caught out there. Sort out your finances and put some cash aside to help you meet your family’s need.

All students 9th-12th Grade

Read as much as you can. It will help your writing skills and make reading passages during standardized exams like the PSAT/SAT/ACT a piece of cake.

Participate in a community service activity or volunteer your time. Colleges like students who give back and there are tons of scholarship programs that have this as a requirement. So be a good human and get on out there.

Practice your basic skills folks. You cannot afford to fall behind. The work will only get harder. Practice makes perfect.

Practice for SAT/ACT or both. I left some free tools to help you study on my On Track For College app. Check them out and GET TA STUDYING!

Research careers…. I suggest doing this before building your college list. Why? Because knowing what you want to do can help you narrow your search and make it more likely for you to choose a college that has your career interests in mind. Thank me later!

Research colleges you may be interested in attending. Start by answering the following: What is the requirement to get in? How much will it cost? Does it have anything I would be interested in? *Remember, college visits count as research. Start with local colleges in your area and branch out so you can compare. 

Seniors You Are Up!!!

College application season will be here before you know it. If you use this time to knock some things off your list, the fall will be way easier. Try getting these things done ASAP!

Apply for your FSA ID. The FSA ID is the password and username you need to sign the FAFSA or Free Application For Federal Student Aid. If you are hoping to get financial aid for school this my friends is the first step. Your parent will also need an FSA ID  to sign the FAFSA when it is completed. Remember to write down the usernames and passwords associated with your account. You will need it to file the FAFSA in October and every year after that.

Finalize your brag sheet and resume. These documents are used to showcase your skills for recommendations and future opportunities. Think of 3 core content teachers who would write the best letter for you and give both documents to them when school starts.

Finalize your college list. What schools do you envision yourself going to? Make sure to check their requirements and tuition costs before adding them to your list.

Start on your essay. The essay portion takes the longest amount of time to complete. Check each college website for instructions/prompts and get started ASAP. 

Study for the SAT/ACT. You want to get the highest score you can possibly get. Check my On Track For College app for free study sites and other recommendations.

Juniors

Study for PSAT/NMSQT. Doing well on this test can open you up to additional scholarships. so commit to a study schedule to get those scores up.

Think of activities you want to be a part of this year. Sports, arts, clubs, student government will be a great look for your high school resume.

Start creating your resume. Think of all the activities, jobs, and accomplishments you’ve had throughout your high school career and write them all down.

Learn more about Mizz P.’s offerings here: www.mizzp.nyc Instagram: Mizzpnyc Facebook: Mizz P. Mizz P. Post-Secondary Success Consulting, LLC

Download the On Track For College App for videos and tips for college and career planning. Available on Google Play and App Store! Download using this link: bit.ly/downloadotc