Planning

Research careers.

Identify your academic interest early in your high school years.

Have your high school counselor assist you in selecting the proper curriculum.

Take at least one of the assessment tests.

Check with your high school counselor for test schedules.

Begin asking teachers, counselors or employers if they would be willing to write a letter of recommendation.

Attend college fairs in your area.

Visit colleges you are interested in or check out their Web sites.

Choosing a College

Narrow down your list to 3-5 colleges at the beginning of your senior year.

Visit the campus, take a tour, sit in on a class or two and stay overnight.

Talk with students on campus.

Talk with professors in your chosen major(s).

Talk to a coach in your chosen sport.

Find out if the college has job placement services.

Research the college's reputation and graduation rate.

Talk with the financial aid office about your aid package.

Let all colleges you applied to know about your final decision.

Find out if you will be required to pay a deposit to reserve your place.

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