Junior October. Navigating the Path to College Sports: A Junior Athlete’s Guide
As you now know, Junior year marks a crucial point in the lives of high school student-athletes. This is when students begin to make decisions that will shape their future, including college applications, scholarship opportunities, and athletic recruitment. October is here and as a student-athlete, it’s time to start planning and preparing for what lies ahead. In this blog post, we’ll provide a guide for student-athletes on what they should be doing during junior year in the month of October.
Plan Your ACT and SAT Strategy
One of the most important tasks for junior year in October is to plan for your ACT and SAT strategy. While the NCAA no longer mandates these tests, most colleges still require them for admissions and scholarships. If you’re aiming for a high academic institution, then these tests become even more important. Make sure you’re working with your school guidance counselors, personal tutors, and college recruiting professionals to create a plan that works best for you. Remember, test scores do matter, so don’t discount their importance.
Check Testing Date Calendars
Once you have your strategy in place, the next step is to check the testing date calendars. Mark the dates on your calendar, particularly the registration deadlines. It’s important to stay on top of these dates to ensure that you don’t miss out on taking these important tests. Make sure to plan around your athletic schedule as well, so that you don’t miss any crucial games.
Consider All Costs Associated with ACT and SAT
While preparing for these tests, don’t forget to budget for all of the costs associated with them. This includes fees, possible tutoring or test prep expenses, and transportation costs. Make sure you’ve done your research and understand what financial burden comes with these tests. Planning ahead will help you avoid any unnecessary surprises.
Research and Narrow Down College Choices
Junior year is also an excellent time to start researching and narrowing down your college choices. Talk to your school guidance counselor, work with a college recruiting professional, and research online to find schools that align with your academic and athletic goals. Keep in mind the location, size, majors offered, and most importantly, the athletic programs. Focus on schools that have programs in your sport and that are a good fit for you academically.
Start Preparing Athletically
Lastly, start preparing athletically for the upcoming recruiting season. This could mean attending camps, showcases, or tournaments during the offseason. Consider working with a personal trainer to improve your speed, agility, and overall athleticism. Keep track of your stats and share them with college coaches when the time comes.
Conclusion:
Junior year is a critical time for high school student-athletes, and October marks the beginning of the college application and athletic recruitment process. By following the steps outlined in this guide, students can stay on top of important tasks and achieve their academic and athletic goals. Make sure to plan for your ACT and SAT strategy, mark the testing dates, consider all costs, research and narrow down your college choices, and start preparing athletically. With hard work and dedication, you’ll be on your way to a successful future both on and off the field.