STUDENT CHECK LIST 8TH-9TH GRADE

High School Checklist | EDFIN College Prep

College Coaches Corner:

To Do:

Take challenging classes in core academic subjects. Most colleges require four years of English, at least three years of social studies (history, civics, geography, economics, etc.) Three years of mathematics, and three years of science, and many require two years of a foreign language. Round out your course load with classes in computer science and the arts.
Ask your guidance counselor or teachers what Advanced Placement courses are available, whether you are eligible and how to enroll in the.
Use the U.S. Department of Labor’s career search tool to research your career options.
Start a list of your awards, honors, paid and volunteer work, and extracurricular activities. Whether you are eligible and how to enroll in them.

To Explore:

Check out KnowHow2Go: The Four Steps to College, which suggests some actions you can take as you start thinking about education beyond high school.

Parents List:

To Do:

Talk to your child about college plans as if he or she will definitely go to college.
Keep an eye on your child’s study habits and grades – stay involved.
Encourage your child to take Advanced Placement or other challenging classes.

WHAT IS THE PSAT?

The PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test / National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test) is a preliminary version of the SAT. Not only does the PSAT help prepare students to take the SAT or ACT, a great score on the PSAT can also open the door to National Merit Scholarships and other awards.

With $180 million in scholarships awarded to students that achieve high scores on the PSAT, how you perform on this exam can help you earn scholarship dollars that change the direction of your college planning. The PSAT is much more than a practice test.— KAPLAN

To Do:

All Year

Meet with your school counselor or mentor to discuss colleges and their requirements.

Consider taking a practice Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT) or the PLAN exam.

Plan to use your summer wisely: Work, volunteer, or take a summer course (away or at a local college).

Learn the differences between grants, loans, work-study, and scholarships.

Parents

Find out whether your child’s school has college nights or financial aid nights. Plan to attend those events with your child.

Help your child develop independence by encouraging him or her to take responsibility for balancing homework with any other activities or a part-time job.

Mentoring and Coaching

1. Career/Academic Planning

• Choosing classes for specific careers

• Job shadowing • Help students identify internships

• Staying knowledgeable about the industry/your craft.

2. Leadership Development

• Time management

• Problem-solving

• Working with people with different personalities and backgrounds

• Public speaking

• Conflict resolution

• Servant-leadership