Sophomore Calendar

Sophomore Pre-College Calendar and Checklist

September

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October

Draw up a list of college majors that you think might intrigue you, and review your four-year course load with the majors in mind.

November

Colleges fairs can be a great way to "see" many schools at once. Try www.nacac.com/exhibitfair.cfm, or talk to your guidance counselor.

December

Discuss your PSAT results with your guidance counselor, and figure out how to make improvements if needed. While it's probably too early for a test-prep class, you might want to do more reading in your free time, take more challenging courses, or practice on old tests.

January

Look into National Collegiate Athletic Association requirements if you think you may want to participate in sports in college. Consider whether your sports experience jibes with your college plans: Do schools that interest you field teams in your sport? Do you have a chance on playing on them?

February

Teacher's pet? You might want to keep it up. You will need teachers who know you well - and like you - to write your college recommendations.

March

Decide if you want to take an SAT II subject test. It's often better to take the exam as soon as you've completed the relevant class, instead of waiting until later.

April

Talk to your guidance counselor and your parents about whether you should take summer-school classes to improve your grades, fit in a needed course, or further investigate a subject that appeals to you.

May

Figured out you don't need that summer school? Look around for other constructive ways to spend your time off. Find an interesting summer job, or try an academic or arts camp.

June/July/August

Take the ACT or the June SAT IIs, if appropriate. But remember, once you request that your SATs be sent to a college, that school will see every SAT II test you've ever taken.
Spend some time researching colleges. Can you begin to narrow down a list of some types of schools that are appealing to you? Urban or rural? Big or small? Public or private?
If you're close to a university, consider dropping by and walking around. Even an hour-long visit will give you a feed for a college. You'll also get a sense of your own likes and dislikes.