Junior May. Navigating the Path to College Sports: A Junior Athlete’s Guide
Welcome to the month of May! High school juniors know that this month marks the spring season of college admission preparation. From crafting essays to collecting recommendation letters, there are plenty of factors to consider when applying for college, particularly if one is a student-athlete. Therefore, it is advised to begin early and stay organized. This blog post serves as a task list to help you stay on track when preparing for college applications as a high school student-athlete.
Learn About the Application Process
It is crucial to start researching the college application process as a high school junior. Learn what the “Common Application” is and which schools accept it, as this knowledge can save you a lot of time in the future. Additionally, you should familiarize yourself with the different application requirements for each school. Doing so will allow you to decide the most suitable colleges for your unique academic and athletic profile.
Update Your Athletic and Academic Resume
A great athlete can be a selling point for some colleges, so make sure your athletic resume is up to date. Update your sports achievements, statistics, and any new athletic honors or recognition. Furthermore, it is equally important to maintain an updated academic resume as well. Make sure to highlight any coursework, honors, and special academic achievements that are significant to your potential college. Both resumes will be of value when applying for college, so make sure they are fully updated.
Maintain Good Grades
Academic performance is crucial for college admissions. A high grade-point average (GPA) showcases your academic potential, reaffirming to college recruiters that you are a well-rounded student-athlete. Therefore, focus on maintaining consistent grades throughout the year, even in the spring season when many students shift their focus to athletic events.
Plan Your Summer Schedule
May is a great time to consider your summer schedule. Consider taking summer courses, participating in athletic camps, or volunteering. These activities will not only keep you engaged but also provide valuable content for your college application. However, be careful not to overdo activities, as it may compromise your GPA and impact your ability to focus on fall sports.
Schedule Meeting with Counselors and Coaches
Meet with your school counselor and sports coaches regularly. Use these meetings to review your academic and athletic progress, ask any questions you may have, and seek advice if needed. Remember, these professionals are there to support you through high school and guide you into your college years.
Conclusion:
Preparing for college admission can be stressful for anyone, let alone a high school student-athlete. However, with proper preparation and organization, you can tackle this task head-on. This blog post briefly outlined some actions for a high school student-athlete to do in May, including learning about the college application process, updating athletic and academic resumes, maintaining good grades, planning summer activity, and meeting with school professionals. Remember, starting early and staying organized can make a world of difference. Good luck and happy college hunting!