But First: Things That You Need to Do Before You Finish Junior Year

Don't be the person that finds themselves in the beginning of senior year without any sense of what they want to do in college, or even worse: not knowing where to apply and how to go about it. The process for college applications starts earlier than your senior year (like, way earlier), so here are some helpful tips for tackling junior year in regards to the college application process.

1. Take the SAT or ACT

Seriously, get this done!!! You DO NOT want to be worrying about standardized testing the summer before your senior year and certainly not when you're in the middle of college apps. Unfortunately, it's tough to really take it super seriously now, but it pays off. For some selective schools (you'll need to do some research on this), the admissions counselors are also looking to see you perform well on certain SAT Subject Tests, which requires special preparation.

2. Talk to teachers about recommendation letters.

You obviously shouldn't do this until May or early June, but keep in mind early in your junior year about building relationships with teachers. While I can't say that you shouldn't ask your sophomore year teachers (especially if you interact with them to this day), most colleges like to see junior year teachers write your recommendations because they've known you for a full year and the impression you had on them is fresher than previous years' teachers. Ultimately, the decision is up to you, but keep in mind about how you want to approach this.

3. Don't let your grades dip.

Colleges really don't like it when you burn out in your junior year. Prioritize, breathe, and don't overload yourself. You got this.

4. Stay committed.

A great way to relieve stress is to stay involved in extracurricular activities. I played in my youth orchestra all throughout high school, which provided me the mental space where I could just focus on playing music instead of school. Do whatever makes you happy. Colleges actually want to see people that are really enthusiastic about what they do.

And it goes without saying, of course, that you should have fun! Most high schools allow all members of the junior class to attend prom, so go and be happy! Best of luck!

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