Grade 11 Plan (2nd semester of Grade 11):

General Game Plan

• College lists and College plan (ED / EA / REA / RD) -- shared document to track progress

• Calendar of deadlines: college visits (if applicable), tests required

• Testing Schedule (SAT / ACT), including practice tests and which test is best

• Consider Grade 11 activities (in and out of school) and how to develop these

• Consider Grade 11 curriculum / grades – how can you further your academic interests?

• Hone in, if possible, on an academic focus

• This will allow you to conduct more detailed research on each school’s unique programs

College Application Prep

• Teachers recommendations (reflection on academic pursuits)

• Optional recommendations

• Sample Resume / Brag Sheet … Common App Brag Sheet … Example of a Common App Activities Section

• School activities

• Community involvement

• Summer Programs

• Internships / Work Experience / Summer Experiences

• Understanding the “package” and how you will be read

Essays (The Ultimate Essay Guide - during the summer between Junior and Senior year)

• Essay plan -- set dates and share document to track progress:

• Personal Statement (for Common App and UCAS)

• Getting Started with Essays; and a Brainstorming packet

• Personal Statement brainstorming chart with examples

• Sample “Why ___ institution” essay with material to include

• UC Personal Insight Questions (PIQ’s)

• UC PIQ example essays

• Supplemental essays (2023-2024 essay prompts)

• Optional additional materials (portfolios, research abstracts, etc.)

Demonstrated Interest for Colleges and Universities

• Research -- shared document to track progress:

• Concentric Circles and Example

• College visits / Virtual tours /Classroom visits 

• Interview (student / alumni / admissions officer)

• Register on college websites

• Research on college websites

• Perfecting the “Why” essay

• Possible fly-in programs for underrepresented students

Summer Planning

• Finding the best summer opportunities to match academic or co-curricular interests

• Planning out possible essay work and college visits

• [Athletic Recruitment, if applicable]: Athletic camps and connection with coaches

• Continue working with coaches throughout the year to discuss personal progress, possible camps, opportunities to develop, and how to start connecting with college coaches

Contact us if you have questions!