Checklist for getting ready to apply to college:

• Meet with your high school guidance counselor to discuss your college search.
• Explore. Check out colleges of all different types. Seeing and comparing different schools will help you narrow down the type of environment you want.
• Stay involved in your high school. Clubs, sports, community service – all good things to add to your college application.
• Keep focusing on your school work. Colleges will evaluate the grades you make as a junior.
• Create a new email account. Cut the clutter in your inbox with a new account that you use only for college search.
• Start attending college fairs. This will help you narrow down the schools you are considering.
• Take the SAT or ACT. At Mars Hill, we do not require these, but if you submit your scores you may be considered for additional financial aid.
• Prepare your essay. Check out essay prompts for any colleges or scholarships you are considering. Start working on a draft early.
• Research scholarships that may be available through your high school or community. You may also find grants and scholarships on websites like fastweb.com, cfnc.org or mappingyourfuture.org.
• Start touring schools to where you feel at home. Visiting campuses over the summer going into senior year is recommended.