Advice to the Class of 2016

As our awesome Class of 2015 gets ready to receive their diplomas on June 6, they took some time to share some advice to our underclassmen, especially advice for our juniors just beginning their college processes. Below are some words of wisdom. Thank you Class of 2015 - you will be missed!

On Choosing Colleges to Apply to...

* Branch out and get to know all of your options. Think about what you like and choose a path to build upon that! 

* Visit colleges before you apply to them!

* Find your best fit!

* Don’t worry about not applying because of the fear of not getting accepted

* Always have a back-up school

* Do your research. Find out everything you can about the college you want to go to and ask lots of questions

* If you are going to apply to a school with a low acceptance rate, make sure you'd be equally happy at your "back-up" school

* Reach out to students you know who go to your desired school, they will be open and honest about their experiences

* Visit a school twice before enrolling

* Going on college visits during your junior year and the summer is a lot better than cramming it into senior year 

* Never let the price tag scare you from applying 

On the Application Process...

* Spend more time than you think is necessary studying for the SAT/ACT

* If you are taking SAT subject tests, take them in June of your junior year when the material is still fresh

* Use the college adviser!!

* Don’t procrastinate and wait until the last minute to get everything done

* Stay on top of all of your deadlines!

* Get things done early so you aren’t rushing!

* If you are thinking about majoring in art, do NOT wait until March/April to finish your portfolios

* It is okay (and encouraged) to meet with the college adviser monthly to check up and hold yourself accountable

* The sooner you get your college applications in, the sooner you can find out, and make a decision!

On Financial Aid...

* Start saving for college sooner! Funds sneak up on you and you end up regretting spending the $10 back in 2009. Start saving now!

* Try to win as many scholarships as possible! 

* Always account for your money situations before making decisions

On surviving high school...

* Keep your grades up!

* Do community service - it looks good on your resume and applications

* Make time for yourself and your friends!

* High school is just one small part of life - there is more out there to enjoy and experience

General Advice...

* Always set goals, both big and small

* Dream big, anything is possible!

* Be tenacious!

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