Academics: Focus on building a solid foundation in core subjects, especially in math, reading, and writing. Aim for strong grades. They should be in position to be in honors classes freshman year and ideally taking Algebra by 8th grade. 

Reading: Develop a reading habit, both for enjoyment and vocabulary building. This helps with future standardized tests and comprehension skills.

Extracurriculars: Try out various activities—sports, music, art, or academic clubs—to find what you enjoy. Start getting involved in community service projects and explore basic leadership roles in school clubs.

Summer Programs: Attend camps that focus on general skills (e.g., STEM, arts, or language).

Soft Skills: Work on time management, organization, and self-discipline—critical for high school success.

Goals: Establish a strong academic record, narrow down activities, and start exploring career interests.

Academics: Take challenging courses, including honors or advanced classes, if available. Grades matter from this year onward, as they’ll appear on the transcript.

Extracurriculars: Continue exploring interests but start focusing on a few activities where you might want to assume leadership roles later. This can include school clubs, sports teams, or arts programs.

Community Service: Begin consistent involvement with a community organization or cause, which shows long-term commitment.

Leadership: Seek small leadership roles, such as a club secretary or team captain, where possible.

Summer Programs: Participate in introductory academic summer programs related to potential interests. Local university-sponsored programs are great for early exposure.

Planning: Start discussing long-term goals and possible career interests with guidance counselors.

Goals: Strengthen academic rigor, deepen extracurricular involvement, and start standardized test preparation.

Academics: Continue taking honors classes and, if available, your first AP course. Maintaining a strong GPA is crucial.

Extracurriculars: Commit to a few key activities where you’ll build leadership skills and recognition, such as competing in events, starting initiatives, or organizing club activities.

Test Preparation: Take the PSAT for practice. Some students begin prep for the SAT/ACT this year, particularly if aiming for high scores.

Community Service and Leadership: Take on more responsibility in community service. Consider organizing events or leading a small project.

Internships and Summer Programs: Apply for competitive, interest-based summer programs (e.g., STEM camps, arts intensives) or internships. Many national programs for sophomores introduce specific skills and offer early networking.

Networking and Mentorship: Reach out to teachers or community leaders for mentorship. Building relationships with mentors can lead to strong recommendation letters later.

Goals: Excel in academics, build a college list, and strengthen leadership and test prep.

Academics: Take multiple AP or advanced courses. Junior year grades are particularly critical for college applications.

Extracurricular Leadership: Take on high-level leadership roles in key activities (e.g., president of a club, captain of a sports team). Colleges look for depth and leadership in a few areas rather than superficial involvement in many.

Standardized Testing: Take the PSAT/NMSQT for National Merit qualification and begin official SAT/ACT testing, aiming to complete these by the end of junior year.

Community Service: Take on a significant role in service activities, potentially starting a personal project or initiative that demonstrates commitment to a cause.

Summer Programs and Internships: Apply to competitive programs like Research Science Institute (RSI), internships, or college-level summer courses. These can add prestige and show commitment to an academic or career path.

College Research: Start researching colleges and attend virtual or in-person college fairs. Begin compiling a list of target, reach, and safety schools. 

College Essay Preparation: Begin drafting ideas for college essays. Reflect on your high school experiences to identify personal stories that highlight resilience, passion, or leadership.

Goals: Finalize applications, maintain strong academics, and continue leadership roles.

Academics: Maintain grades and take advanced courses. Admissions committees often see senior-year grades.

Extracurriculars and Leadership: Continue with leadership roles, as sustained involvement shows commitment. If possible, launch a capstone project or event in your club or community service role.

Standardized Testing: Complete any final SAT/ACT tests by early fall.

Teacher Recommendations: Request recommendation letters from teachers and mentors who know you well. Provide them with a resume or summary of your accomplishments.

Financial Aid and Scholarships: Complete the FAFSA and apply for scholarships. Many scholarships consider academic performance, community service, and leadership.

Interviews: Practice for college interviews and participate in alumni or on-campus interviews when offered.