<p>Hey guys. I am going to be a high school junior in the fall. Some of my dream colleges are USC, Stanford, and I just want to apply to Harvard for the heck of it. I know junior year is the most vital of the whole 4 year experience. What should I do this school year in order to at least be noticed by top colleges?</p>
<p>What, besides making great grades and achieving outstanding test scores? Consider which teachers you have this year that you will want to write recommendations. Make sure you participate and take the lead in classroom discussions. Consider your ECs - do you have so many that you are spread too thin? do you have enough? are they something you are "passionate" about? what do they say about you? are you developing leadership opportunities? Also, develop a relationship with your guidance counselor (in a good way!) - they will be writing recommendations for you, too. And research/contact the colleges in which you are interested. Visit if possible, contact the adcom for your area with questions - start to develop that relationship, too.</p>
<p>Is that enough?</p>
<p>Thanks a lot! So far, here are some of my ECs:</p>
<p>Junior Class President
Townview Student Executive Board
DISD Student Executive Board
Pan-Am
Mock Trial
Peer Mediator
Townview Ambassador
People to People Alumni Student Ambassador
African dance
Hip Hop dance</p>
<p>Arrange to take the SAT as early as possible. Take the SAT IIs of your choice at the end of the year (hopefully corresponding with the subjects you're taking this year--i.e, American History=SAT II U.S. History, etc). I really wish I had done that--I'd have less stress now to take the SAT, SAT IIs, and the ACT all in October (I am taking the SAT and the ACT again). The earlier you take the SAT, the more you can evaluate your score and prep for the areas you need. Develop your club interests. Take leadership positions. Do whatever it takes to get into National Honor Society, if your school has a chapter. Start researching, but focus on your scores, your ECs, and your grades, and you'll be ready for any college you want to go to. Tour colleges, too!</p>
<p>Cure cancer. Then you'll be all set. ;)</p>