Rising Seniors: Summer Steps for Senior Year Success

Congratulations - your senior year is just around the corner! This milestone year will be full of memorable moments, personal growth and important decisions about your future. To set yourself up for a successful and enjoyable final year of high school, it’s essential to use your summer months strategically. The next eight weeks are a perfect time to make meaningful progress on your college applications. By getting ahead now, you’ll free up time in the fall to focus on academics, athletics, extracurriculars and your last year of high school. Here are some of the most impactful ways to move your applications forward this summer:

• Draft your activities lists for the Common Application and/or UC Application, paying attention to the unique guidelines for each

• Refine your college list to ensure that it is balanced and aligned with your goals, needs and interests; confirm application deadlines for each college

• Brainstorm and outline your personal statement and/or responses to the UC Personal Insight Questions (PIQs)

• Begin drafting your essays, aiming for an authentic personal narrative that demonstrates reflection, values and growth

• Work on the supplemental essays which are typically released on August 1

• Register for and take any remaining standardized tests:

  • SAT test dates (2025): Aug. 23, Sept. 13, Oct. 4, Nov. 8

  • ACT test dates (2025): Sept. 6, Oct. 18, Dec. 13

• Schedule early fall campus visits to explore schools and demonstrate interest

• Complete artistic portfolios and/ schedule auditions/interviews if required by your intended major or program

With thoughtful planning and consistent effort this summer, you’ll enter senior year feeling confident, organized and ready for the year ahead. For support with this process, contact Linley@LKCollegeConsulting.net for a free consultation.