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by Irene Chung
October Checklist for Success – Seniors & Underclassmen
Welcome to October, everyone! 🍂 For seniors, it’s officially college application season. If you’re an underclassman, October is the perfect time to get a head start on your own college planning. By preparing early, you’ll feel more confident and ready to take on your senior year when it arrives. Let’s break down what seniors need to focus on this month, along with some key tips for underclassmen so you’ll know what to expect (and what you can do now!).
1. Tackle Those Early Application Deadlines 📅
Seniors: If you’re applying Early Action (EA) or Early Decision (ED), October 15th and November 1st are likely big deadlines for you. Here’s what to do this month:
- Finish up your essays. Make them polished, personal, and uniquely you.
- Confirm Letters of Recommendation. Give your teachers a reminder, and be sure to thank them!
- Send transcripts and test scores (if required) to ensure all materials arrive by the deadline.
Underclassmen: Take note of the teachers, mentors, and activities that are meaningful to you. Think about who you might want to ask for a recommendation in the future and start building strong relationships with them. Also, start exploring colleges to get a sense of what interests you—think of it as your college “wish list”!
2. Polish Up Those Essays ✍️
Seniors: October is the perfect month for the final touches on your personal statement and supplemental essays.
Underclassmen: Start a journal or notes file about your experiences, challenges, and interests. Write down anything that’s meaningful to you, as these reflections will help when it’s time to write your own college essays. You might even start drafting a practice personal statement to get a feel for it!
4. Sign Up for Optional Interviews 🎤
Seniors: If your EA/ED schools offer optional alumni interviews, take advantage! It’s a fantastic way to show your interest and learn more about the school.
Underclassmen: Practice talking about your interests, goals, and strengths with a friend or family member. This helps build confidence for interviews and even classroom presentations. You could also look into community programs that offer mock interviews or public speaking practice.
5. Keep Track of Deadlines & Submissions 📂
Seniors: Staying organized is essential this month! Use a calendar, planner, or digital tool to track application deadlines, financial aid dates, and scholarship submissions. You also have your CPSI portal with your custom application calendar.
Underclassmen: Start a “College Planning” folder where you keep any materials or information you gather. You could also create a timeline with target goals for each year of high school, such as taking the PSAT, researching majors, or joining clubs that align with your interests. Building this habit now will make senior year a lot easier!
6. Take Care of YOU 🧘♀️
Seniors: With everything going on, make sure to schedule time to relax and recharge. Remember, your well-being is just as important as your college applications!
Underclassmen: Try joining clubs or extracurriculars that interest you—these experiences can help you find your passions and prepare for college.
Extra Tips for Underclassmen: What to Focus on This Fall 🍁
- Explore College Majors and Career Interests: Research different majors and career paths to get a feel for what excites you. If something sparks your interest, look for ways to explore it through classes, clubs, or online resources.
- Set Academic Goals: Focus on maintaining strong grades and taking challenging courses. Good study habits now will make your junior and senior years more manageable, especially when you start taking standardized tests.
- Get Involved in Extracurriculars: Join clubs, sports, or community service activities that interest you. Not only will these enrich your high school experience, but they’ll also make your college applications stand out.
- Develop Good Relationships with Teachers: Engage in class, participate in discussions, and consider going to office hours if you have questions. Building these relationships early on will make it easier when it’s time to ask for recommendation letters.
Wrapping It Up
October is a month for taking action! Seniors, it’s time to dive into applications, stay organized, and make every effort count. Underclassmen, use this time to start preparing so that when it’s your turn, you’ll be ready to take on the college application process with confidence. You’ve got this!
