<p>Well... my freshman year of high school will be over in about a month, and I haven't done as well academically as I would have liked.</p>
<p>My school is an all-girls Catholic high school. It prides itself on being named a "Nationally Recognized School of Excellence" by the U.S. Department of Education. For all I know, though, that title is given to every other school.</p>
<p>This year, my main classes included English I Honors, Spanish I Honors, Algebra I / Geometry Honors, and Biology. My average altogether has been about a 90.</p>
<p>My extra-curriculars aren't all that impressive, either. I'm on the school newspaper and I'm a "Student Ambassador," meaning I represent my school at certain functions. I hope to become more involved next year.</p>
<p>Now, obviously I don't expect to be admitted to the Ivy Leagues, but I'm wondering what my chances are at other "good" schools. I know I'm being brief, but I'm clueless when it comes to the college application process!</p>
<p>Also, what can I do now to improve my chances?</p>
<p>Oh, I should probably include that this summer I will be working for an inner-city housing coalition.</p>
<p>Also might participate in a Habitat for Humanity project.</p>
<p>You have a lot of options, with 3 years of high school ahead of you. A 90 average isn't bad, so don't be discouraged.</p>
<p>1) Hone your writing skills. Not only will this help when it comes to admission essays; it'll help you up your grades.</p>
<p>2) Develop strong relationships with your teachers, particularly junior year - these are the teachers who will write your recs. PARTICIPATE IN CLASS!</p>
<p>3) Don't procrastinate. When you get an assignment, make a plan to get it done - and it never hurts to turn things in early.</p>
<p>4) Don't do ECs just because you think they'll look good on your college app, but don't shy away from doing things that you think you might enjoy.</p>
<p>5) Try to attain some positions of leadership. Maybe even start your own club. Make sure you are involved next year; colleges like to see commitment. Nothing, nothing, nothing, and then a bunch of hokey clubs senior year will not make any impression whatsoever.</p>
<p>6) If you feel yourself falling behind in any subject, do something about it: speak to the teacher, find a tutor, devote extra time to homework. It's too late when the end of the tri (well, semester I guess) is approaching.</p>
<p>As far as researching colleges goes, attending a college fair is a good way to get a lot of information. Collegeboard.com is a good source for searching. If you're interested in a school, put yourself on the mailing list, and remove yourself from the list if you lose interest. Don't obsess over what you'll major in - remember that most people change their majors several times.</p>