As 9th graders, it is important to begin to lay solid groundwork that will pave the way for your future academic success. This starts with a commitment to achieving strong grades, as these early marks in high school are often the first indicators of academic potential that colleges will review. Simultaneously, it’s essential to develop fundamental skills, such as critical thinking, time management, and effective study habits. Identifying key high school milestones for 9th grade, such as potential AP classes to take or leadership roles to aspire to, can help guide a student’s high school journey, ensuring they stay on track for college readiness.
Why Should You Start Thinking About College in 9th Grade?
Many students and their parents believe that college planning starts in the sophomore, junior, or senior year of high school. But really, the sooner, the better! Starting early allows you to get a head start to explore your interests and get involved in extracurricular activities you would like to take part in, which have a strong impact on college applications. As you are busier with more difficult classes, potential jobs, and college applications in the coming years, you will be thankful for the extra time you have to tackle all these tasks, which will help manage stress and lead to a better application.
What Should 9th Graders Do To Prepare For College?
Although it’s early in a high school career, 9th graders can take a few simple steps that will not only help them build a strong academic foundation but will allow them to start shaping their unique narrative that colleges will find appealing. This type of planning is essential, as it allows students to identify potential career paths or fields of study early, ensuring they’re well-prepared for college and life itself.
These steps include:
- Explore Interests: Identify what sparks your curiosity, whether it’s an academic subject, a sport, or a hobby. This list of interests will help guide your decisions over the next four years and could potentially inform your college major and career path.
- Plan Your High School Journey: Once you’ve pinpointed your interests, it’s time to plan your high school course load. Meet with your guidance counselor to discuss class options that align with your interests and future goals, keeping an eye on potential AP and college courses. Your counselor will be a key ally throughout your high school journey.
- Get Involved: Join school clubs, sports teams, or community organizations that align with your interests. Remember, it’s more impressive to show deep involvement in a few activities than superficial participation in many.
- Save For College / Make Money Over the Summer: Starting in 9th grade, establish a college savings account using allowances or birthday money. You can also work part-time or during summer to contribute to savings and gain work experience. Discuss setting up a 529 plan, a tax-free college savings plan, with your parents.
- Get Familiar with PSATs and SATs: Understanding PSATs and SATs early is vital as they impact college admissions. Early familiarity reduces anxiety, increases confidence, and aids in identifying strengths and areas of improvement to help guide future study strategies.
9th Grade College Planning Checklist:
Use the following checklist to keep track of what you should do to prepare while in 9th Grade:
- Meet with your school guidance counselor to discuss your college aspirations.
- Identify and list your academic interests, goals, and passions.
- Join a club, sport, or extracurricular activity related to your interests.
- Research college majors that align with your interests.
- Research careers that interest you.
- Select electives for your sophomore year that will support your college goals.
- Think about what strengths, skills, and experiences you’d like to highlight on your applications.
- Begin to explore summer opportunities such as internships, jobs, or volunteering roles to gain valuable experience and skills.
- Stay consistent with your studies to maintain good grades.
- Develop good relationships with your teachers – their recommendations can be valuable during the college application process.
- Create a four-year high school plan with your counselor, laying out the roadmap for academic and extracurricular activities that will help you reach your goals.
While college may seem distant as a 9th grader, early preparation can enhance your high school experience and set you up for success when applying to colleges. Whether you are thinking about your future career or exploring extracurriculars, every step taken now brings you closer to your future goals. Remember to balance your academic pursuits with activities you genuinely enjoy. College planning isn’t just about getting into a top university—it’s about discovering who you are and who you want to be.