"How To: Get Ready for College! " by Brianna B

So, with less than 50 school days left in the year, we must all start thinking about something very important, college. Even if you've committed to a university or not, there are some things you can start doing NOW to help you get ready and not feel so rushed one week before school starts. I have watched an ungodly amount of college prep videos and I am here to help! I have separated things you can do each month from now until August. Good luck with all your future endeavors!
March:

• ●  Now is the perfect time to just enjoy yourself, high school only happens once!
  
• ●  College acceptances begin coming out for UC schools from March 1s t to March 31s t . Your acceptance isn't very far away!
  
• ●  College acceptances for Cal States will be given out until April 1st
  
• ●  While waiting for an acceptance, don’t stress yourself out! Enjoy the process. April:
  
• ●  Depending on your acceptances, you get to decide where you want to go for the next four years!
  
• ●  Some things to help you decide on the college for you:
  

○ ○ ○
● If your ○
○

Choosing the school with the best program for you
Location that fits your lifestyle
A school within your financial means
acceptances didn’t go as expected, here are some options:
Even if it is not your dream school, if it has your major, it is still a good option!
If you are extremely set on a certain school, remember you can always transfer from a community college
■ Assist.org can help determine if a certain community college's credits will transfer to a 4 year you're interested in

• ●  Tour the college of your choice! Fall in love with the campus
  
• ●  Remember to study for AP tests! If you pass they may count for college credits.
  May:
  
• ●  Graduation! This is the month it all becomes real, don't forget to enjoy every minute
  of high school.
  
• ●  Senior finals are going to sneak up on you, don't forget to study hard and finish
  strong.
  

• ●  If you finish strong, you will have a great start to an unforgettable summer.
  
• ●  Make sure your housing plans for college are in order
  

○ Roommates, location of dorms, etc.

• ●  Make sure everything is ready for graduation: cap, gown, shoes appropriate for the
  field (thick heels, comfortable heels, etc.)
  
• ●  Enjoy Graduation take lots of photos
  
• ●  Have fun at Grad Night!
  
• ●  If you are having a graduation party, consider starting a college registry with Target
  or other stores so you relatives can help you out!
  June
  
• ●  Find a summer job, saving for college is an extremely important step.
  

○ Even saving $1000 can help to alleviate some extra costs in college such as books, food, and dorm supplies

• ●  If you can't nail down a job, try an internship! Experience is also important
  
• ●  Try to stay active in the summer, keeping fit is important before college
  

○ Avoid the "freshman fifteen" by forming healthy habits

• ●  Make sure your housing plans are definite
  
• ●  Go adventure around home, enjoy the things around your city
  July
  

• ●  Enjoy July 4t h !
  
• ●  Now is the time to start thinking of things you will need to buy for your dorm.
  

○ Bedding, Décor, Microwave, Coffee Maker, School Supplies, Laundry Supplies, Bathroom Cleaning Supplies
● Think of things you can also bring from home ○ Bike, Pillows, Décor

• ●  Remember there are lots of "Independence Day" sales! Try to snag some deals
  
• ●  Also remember to check out thrift stores and yard sales!
  
• ●  If you are moving far or out of state, you can always buy some of these things in that
  area, as it will make it easier to move.
  
• ●  Also, you may be able to buy some things online and have them shipped to the
  location of your college! Check with your college for mail and package standards.
  
• ●  Start to go through your clothes and look to donate or either sell some clothes that no
  longer fit or interest you. Use some of the extra money from selling them to buy some
  new pieces! Think of the weather around your campus.
  
• ●  Start to make lists of things that you use every day and need to bring to college, this
  

will make it easier when it comes time to pack. August:
● Depending on the start date of your college, you will be moving in soon!

• ●  Start to pack all your clothes, toiletries, and any other items you're bringing with you.
  
• ●  Move in day will come sooner than you think!
  
• ●  Try to have zero stress during this time, there will be plenty of time for that in
  college!
  
• ●  Make sure your dorm is a stress-free place that you can relax in and focus in
  
• ●  Enjoy your time in college!
  
• ●  Don’t forget to be a respectful roommate, and friendly to new people. These people
  could be some of your longtime friends!