It's an exciting time of year with resolutions and a new calendar year of adventures ahead. Here at ICAN we are dedicated to making sure you have all the tools and resources you need to be successful this year and far beyond.
So today I'm going to talk to each class a little bit about what you can do in this New Year to stay on track for future success.
Seniors
We're starting with you because you have the most to do! I don't say this to stress you out, but more to make sure you're organized and on top of your career and college planning list.
First - have you filed that FAFSA yet? This is the most important step to securing financial aid for college so if you haven't filed yet, make that your number one New Year's priority. ICAN offers all kinds of help either through one of our centers or through FAFSA Ready Iowa community-based events. Make an appointment at icansucceed.org/apt or visit icansucceed.org/fafsareadyiaevents to find a location near you.
Next up - make sure you are working on scholarship applications. Visit icansucceed.org/scholarships to get started on your search. Last but not least, look into housing for next year. You should complete housing applications for all colleges you are considering so you have everything in order. If you wait until May there may not be housing choices left open. Most colleges refund your housing deposits once you determine you won't be attending.
Juniors
Now is the perfect time to start thinking about where you want to visit. Spring semester is a great time for campus visits and now is the time to starting planning and scheduling your trips. Make a list of your top interests and then check out the website for visit days. Contact the admissions office to schedule your visit and make it personal - in addition to the general tour ask to sit in on a class or talk to a professor from the area you're interested in studying. Download the ICAN guide to campus visits in our resource library - icansucceed.org/materials.
Now is also the time to look into the ACT and SAT tests. Think about the dates in late spring and see what fits your schedule.
Sophomores
Consider attending a college fair this spring and start learning more about the different traits a college has to offer. Now is also a great time to take a career assessment. Career assessments will help you determine what type of education and training you should seek after high school and knowing where your interests lie will help in determing which colleges have what you're looking for and where you might think to visit when you're a junior. Your assessment might also lead you to think about a job shadow. Talk to your school counselor about your options.
Freshmen
Stay focused and kick second semester off strong. In your first year of high school you should be focusing on getting a solid academic foundation, doing well in your classes and starting to explore extra curriculuar activities. Be involved and start exploring classes that interest you in addition to your core academics. Soon you'll be registering for sophomore classes and you'll have some elective options open. Electives are a great way to explore new topics and find out if a pathway could lead to a future career interest.
New Year's is a great time to set goals and plan our your hopes for the year. Take this moment and reflect on what you'd like to see in your future...then map out a way to get there!
Brittania - ICAN Hiawatha Center
