Surviving High School - 11th grade

I feel that I must insane to write these.  Ok, it is only for the kids whom I love so much.

Remember that I am your friend and I will support you in every step that you are taking.
 

11^th grade:

It is the most important year for your college admission.

1.     Take PSAT

Colleges will not see your PSAT scores, but a good score can put you on the candidate list for National Merit Scholarship.  It also provide you a good estimate to line up with SAT ranges listed for the colleges that you like to apply.
 

2.     Taking AP or IB test

If you get a score of 5 in all AP classes that you are taking, you will earn AP Scholar Awards (AP Scholar, AP Scholar with Honor, AP Scholar with Distinction, State AP scholar, National AP Scholar).  The honors will help you for your college applications to very selective colleges.

 

3.      Pursue outstanding position and leadership in your extracurricular activities

You do not have to be a prodigy or to reach professional level for the extracurricular activities.  Colleges are looking for the future leader, active learner, and responsible frontrunner.  They are looking for the unique individual who can bring good value and diverse culture to their campus.

 

4.    Take SAT

Take SAT in the spring so that you will still have chances to take the tests again if you are not happy with your scores.  Remember selective colleges often want to see the history of your test scores.  You may not want to take the tests too many times.  Christmas break is a good time to prepare for the test before the heavy school loads fall on your shoulder again since you will take many hard courses in 11^th grade.

 

5.     Take SAT II

You really should take SAT II test right after your coursework so that the material is fresh in your mind (see what you need to do in 10^th grade section).  If you are not well organized and push everything to the last minute, it is your last chance to take all required SAT II tests.  

 

6.     Keep your grades up

11^th grade is your most important year for earning high grades.  Many of your senior year grades come too late to play a big role on your application.  A drop in your grades in 11^th grade shows a move in the wrong direction, and it will raise red flags for the college admission officers.


Visit college

You should make a plan to visit college in the summer.  Read my old post:
blog.wenxuecity.com/myblog/9462/200911/40530.html