Freshmen

During the freshman year, the Director of College Placement meets with parents and students at grade-specific college nights. In the fall, students take the PSAT to begin preparing for college entrance exams. PSAT scores are returned in January and students are encouraged to evaluate their results through the College Board and to begin taking the SAT practice tests. Students are reminded of the importance of grade point averages and are encouraged to get and stay involved in extra-curricular activities. They are also encouraged to talk with their teachers who will serve as their mentors over the next four years.

Freshman To Do List

• Freshmen need to achieve and maintain the highest GPA possible. In the fall of the senior year, applications are sent to the colleges of choice with grades through the junior year only.
• Families are encouraged to activate their account on Naviance Family Connection, a web-based college counseling resource.
• Freshmen are encouraged to sign up on http://www.collegeboard.com/. Once your PSAT/NMSQT score reports are received, students can use the access code to sign into “My College Quick Start” in order to explore lists of suggested colleges, majors, and careers. Students can also get free PSAT/NMSQT practice tests to improve test scores.
• Start to build a college resume. Keep a record of awards, community service, and activities.
• Research colleges of interest on the web. Consider costs, average GPA, and SAT scores.
• Attend college fairs and college information sessions. For times and locations, visit the College Placement Office and check your Naviance Family Connection account.
• Discuss college plans with the Director of College Placement. Take challenging classes that will aid in college preparation.
• Visit colleges in the summer, while at home or on vacation. Much can be learned about the type of college one might want to attend by visiting various college campuses.