So this is it: you’re about to enter your last year of high school, your very last year of living at home. Here, from someone who’s been there before, are six crucial pointers for getting the most out of 12th grade:
1. Get your testing done.
Whether you’re taking the SAT or ACT, you’ll need a decent score by August or September of your senior year. Consider getting a tutor. Make sure you show up on the testing day in good condition and as confident as you can be.
2. Take care of college applications early.
You should be doing your homework on this by the end of junior year, or at least by summer. Many schools offer options called Early Admission or Early Decision; some of these are binding, some are not. If you have your heart set on a particular school, and it’s not too much of a long shot, consider doing this to end the suspense early
3. Don’t let your last semester slide.
Even if you’ve done #2 and your destination is secured, don’t slack off too much in the final term. Colleges do occasionally check. There’s also the possibility of flunking out, which would put your future on the line. And if you end up on a wait list until well into the summer (it does happen), they’ll certainly check your last transcript.
4. Break up with your boyfriend or girlfriend.
OK, let’s just be honest. It’s not going to last forever. It’s not even going to last past Columbus Day. You’re going to have a cute neighbor down the dormitory hallway, or your sweetheart is, or you’re each going to suspect the other does, which will ruin what’s already left of your flimsy phone-based relationship.
5. Enjoy your friends.
You’re about to leave for probably the most fun experience of your life, but you may find, looking back later, that high school was tied for first place. Take advantage of it. Have some quality time with parents or siblings before you move out. Tell your friends what they mean to you. Do some stuff you shouldn’t (but nothing that will get you into trouble). You’ll never be quite so carefree again, so let the good times roll.
Jane Smith’s informative blog posts can help you make sense of any personal history situation. Whether you are pursuing a new college girl friend, a tenant background check or pulling an employee’s criminal record, feel free to email her at janesmith161@gmail.com.
