Here are ten things any student can do—regardless of your GPA or test scores—to have a more successful, less stressful college planning process:
1. Force yourself to study without any interruptions—no calls, texts, emails, social media—nothing but you and the subjects.
2. Quit any stagnant activities that you don’t enjoy and are simply going through the motions so you can put them on your college applications.
3. Give yourself a minimum of 30-60 minutes every day to do things that are just for you and have absolutely nothing to do with getting into college.
4. Schedule a meeting with your high school counselor to talk about college planning. Don’t know your counselor? Fix that problem by introducing yourself.
5. Tell your favorite teacher how much you’re enjoying her class.
6. Write an old-fashioned thank-you note to someone—teacher, tutor, friend, counselor, etc.—who’s helped you in some way recently.
7. Find 3-5 colleges you’ve never heard of that sound interesting to you.
8. Attend three high school events (sports, music, drama, etc.) and show your support for the people who are participating. It will come back to you on many levels.
9. Put your hand up at least once a day in a class where participation is invited.
10. Identify the activity that means the most to you and think of one new way you could contribute or otherwise make an impact.