Senior year is one of the most exciting times in a student’s life, but along with the thrill comes a fair share of stress, especially when preparing for college. To help you stay on track and ease some of that pressure, we spoke with Ashleigh Eickhoff, current school counselor at Falls City High School and former college admissions representative at Peru State College. Ashleigh offered invaluable insight on what seniors should prioritize to ensure a smooth transition from high school to college.

Top Three Priorities for Seniors

Staying focused on big-picture tasks that will impact your college plans is important. According to Ashleigh, here are the top three priorities:

• Job Shadowing: Not sure what career path you want to pursue? Job shadowing can help you better understand what jobs align with your interests and skills—and what doesn’t. Spending time in a real-world work environment can provide clarity.
• Campus Visits: Nothing beats experiencing a college campus in person. Try to visit a variety of colleges that meet your criteria. Consider size, location, and available programs. How you feel on campus can make or break your decision.
• Financing College: Start exploring your financial aid options early. Scholarships, grants, and student loans can help fund your education, but it’s crucial to get organized to stay on top of deadlines and applications.

Should You Retake the ACT or SAT?

One of the most common questions seniors ask is whether they should retake the ACT or SAT. Ashleigh’s advice is to ask yourself why. If a higher score qualifies you for scholarships, then a retake may be worthwhile. However, keep in mind that most students only see a small increase in their scores—about one or two points—so set realistic expectations. If you decide to go for it, focus on improving the subject areas where you struggled the most. Make sure to check deadlines for scholarships that are tied to your test scores and plan accordingly.

Building a Strong Activities Resume

A well-crafted Activities Resume is essential for college applications. Ashleigh suggests focusing on leadership roles in your extracurriculars and being specific about your contributions. Did you chair a committee or lead a project? Make sure to highlight those accomplishments. Community service is another standout feature. Colleges love to see students who are actively engaged in their communities. Overall, aim to show you’re a well-rounded student with diverse interests.

Narrowing Down College Choices: What to Consider

Choosing the right college involves more than just academics. Ashleigh advises seniors to create a list of priorities, such as:

• College size and location.
• Available majors and career fields.
• Campus environment and extracurricular activities.
• Cost and potential scholarships.

If you’re unsure which major to choose, remember that many schools offer broad fields like business. Take the time to meet with professors and students in the programs you’re interested in to compare what different colleges offer. And don’t forget: visit the campuses! Your visit experience can give you a glimpse of what life at that school will be like.

Scholarship Applications: Timing Is Key

Many colleges have a December 1 scholarship deadline, so apply as early as possible. Ashleigh also recommends working on your personal statement now, as it’s required for many scholarship applications. Get feedback from a trusted teacher to polish your essay. Keep in mind that most local scholarships have deadlines in the spring, and don’t forget to check your email regularly for updates from your school counselor and college reps.

To avoid the spammy side of online scholarship searches, use reliable tools like ScholarshipQuest instead of simply Googling scholarships.

Letters of Recommendation: Planning Ahead

Letters of recommendation are an important part of your college and scholarship applications, so don’t leave them to the last minute! Give your references at least three to four weeks to complete their letters. Teachers, coaches, employers, and community organization leaders are all good choices for recommenders—just make sure they aren’t family members. Choose someone who can speak to your leadership, teamwork, and time management skills. It’s also a good idea to check in with your references to ensure they’re on track to meet the deadlines.

Transitioning to College: Trust Your Gut

Remember to trust your intuition as you transition from high school to college. Others may offer helpful advice, but ultimately, the decision is yours. While it might be tempting to follow your friends or family to their chosen colleges, you need to pick the school that feels right for you and your future goals.

Senior year is full of important decisions and exciting opportunities. By following these tips and staying organized, you can confidently navigate the path to college and beyond. Remember, this is your journey. Trust yourself and take it one step at a time.

By Jeannine Phelan

Assisted by AI