Happy New Year, seniors! Can you believe it’s 2025 already? The finish line is in sight, but there’s still so much to do before graduation day—and even more before your first day of college. To help you stay on track, we’ve compiled a New Year to-do list to help you manage your journey. Let’s dive in!
🔲 Finalize Your College Applications
If you haven’t already submitted your college application(s), the New Year is the perfect time to revisit them. Double-check for missed deadlines, update your application essays, and review your list of schools. Remember, keeping track of each school’s requirements is key. Don’t forget to request transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other supplemental materials if needed.
🔲 Apply for Financial Aid
If you haven’t yet completed the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), now’s the time. Many colleges have priority aid deadlines, so submitting the FAFSA as soon as possible is in your best interest. Completing the FAFSA ensures you’ll be considered for federal aid, including grants, work-study, and student loans. Also, search for other scholarship opportunities. Even small scholarships can add up and help reduce the financial burden of college.
🔲 Organize Your College Decision-Making Process
Once you start receiving college acceptance letters, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the options. Create a pros and cons list for each school, considering factors like location, academic programs, campus culture, and financial aid offers. When spring rolls around, you should have a clearer picture of where you want to spend your college years.
🔲 Manage Your Time
College requires a level of independence that can be both freeing and challenging. Start preparing now by improving your time management skills. Use a planner or digital calendar to keep track of deadlines, assignments, and activities. Try setting aside time each week to review your tasks and plan ahead. The earlier you get comfortable with managing your schedule, the easier it will be to handle the increased workload in college.
🔲 Prioritize Self-Care
The next few months may be stressful, with the pressure of schoolwork, college applications, final exams, and making big decisions about your future. Your mental and physical health should always come first! Whether it’s getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, or simply setting aside time for hobbies, remember to prioritize your well-being. Learning how to balance academic responsibilities with personal care will serve you well once you’re in college.
🔲 Build Good Study Habits
Now is the perfect time to build strong study habits that will set you up for success in college. Create a quiet, distraction-free study space, and start tackling homework assignments as soon as you receive them. Practice active studying techniques, such as summarizing notes, teaching the material to someone else, and taking regular breaks to stay focused. Building these habits now will make your transition to college-level coursework smoother.
🔲 Get Involved and Network
College admissions officers love seeing well-rounded applicants, so stay involved in extracurricular activities. Whether it’s clubs, sports, volunteering, or internships, your participation shows you’re committed to growth. Also, now’s a great time to start networking. Reach out to alumni, current college students, or professors in fields you’re interested in. Building connections can provide valuable insight and help you feel more prepared when you finally step onto campus.
🔲 Think About Housing and Campus Life
Consider your housing options for college. Do you want to live on campus, or are you considering off-campus housing? Some colleges have deadlines for housing applications, so be sure to get this squared away early. Start thinking about what living away from home will be like, and begin making a list of what to bring, such as bedding, study supplies, and personal items.
🔲 Embrace Change and Stay Positive
Finally, one of the most important resolutions for the new year is to embrace the changes ahead. The next few months will likely be filled with ups and downs, but maintaining a positive mindset will help you stay motivated. College will be a big transition, but it’s also an exciting opportunity for growth. Embrace the unknown, and be open to new experiences.
As you check off each item on this list, remember that you’re preparing for college and your future. You’ll be well on your way to a successful college experience by staying organized, proactive, and focused. Also, this is your last year of high school, so make it memorable by sharing experiences with your family and friends.
Here’s to a year of growth, achievement, and exciting new beginnings!
By Jacquie Butler