Junior December. Navigating the Path to College Sports: A Junior Athlete’s Guide
December of your Junior year of high school is a crucial time for student-athletes. It is the time when they need to start thinking about college applications, financial aid, and NCAA eligibility. As a high school student-athlete, you need to start thinking about your future and know what steps to take to achieve your goals. In this blog, we will guide you through the essential tasks that you should complete during your junior year in the month of December.
Estimate Your Financial Aid:
One of the first things you should do is estimate your financial aid. You can use the available tools, such as FAFSA4caster, to get a rough idea. However, it is always wise to consult your guidance counselor for additional information on which tools to use and how to best utilize them. Financial aid can be a significant factor when choosing a college, so it is critical to understand what you can afford.
Register for Your First ACT or SAT:
As a student-athlete, you will need to take the ACT or SAT. December of your junior year is an ideal time to register for the exam. Once you complete one or both, make sure you update your scores to your online resume and/or notebook. If you are unsure which one to take, ask a few of the college coaches if the SAT or ACT holds more weight than the other. You may also ask your guidance counselor for guidance.
Track Your NCAA Eligibility:
If you plan to join a D1 or D2 college, you should start tracking your NCAA eligibility now. You need to meet academic requirements and maintain amateurism status to participate in NCAA sports at the college level. Do not hesitate to ask questions and seek guidance in The College Recruiting Playbook Community Form. We are here to help you.
Set Recruiting Resolutions:
Start setting recruiting resolutions to plan for the year ahead. Make phone calls to coaches and prepare what you want to say to best present yourself to the coach/school. Your first impression counts, and it is no different than a job interview. Remember that the coach is looking for not only a talented athlete but also a responsible and committed student. Ask us questions if you need guidance.
Conclusion:
We hope that this blog has provided you with useful information to help you prepare for your junior year. As a high school student-athlete, it is vital to have a plan for your future and work towards it. Remember to consult your guidance counselor and The College Recruiting Playbook community for guidance if you need it. Start working now to achieve your goals and secure your bright future as both a student and an athlete.