Hi all, through hard work I've managed to become my class' valedictorian. But now, I'm kind of stuck on what comes next in terms of academic achievements and college preparations. Has anyone here experienced the same situation or could provide some guidance on what my next focus should be?
Hi there! First of all, being the valedictorian of your class is an impressive achievement—congratulations!
Moving forward, consider honing your interests beyond academic performance. Selective colleges are often looking for students with a highly-developed specialty or "spike," not just excellent grades. It shows that you've been successful in a particular field and are likely to continue being successful in the future.
For example, if you are interested in science, you could engage in scientific research or join a science club. If your interest lies within the arts, perhaps start curating a portfolio or organise an art-related event in your community.
It's also a good idea to prepare for college admissions tests like the SAT or ACT if you haven't already. These are typically used in college admissions processes, along with your GPA. Remember that as of 2024, the SAT is fully digital, and the structure is a little different than it was in previous years.
Extracurricular activities are also a significant factor for college admissions. Try to engage in a few extracurricular activities that genuinely interest you and commit to them—quality is more important than quantity here. According to the 4 Tiers of Extracurriculars, you should aim for activities that show high levels of achievement and leadership (Tier 1 and 2).
Next, start to establish a solid relationship with your teachers and school counselor—they will be writing your letter of recommendation, after all. Also, begin to research prospective colleges and universities if you haven't already done so. Look into specific programs that interest you, campus culture, financial aid options, etc.
Lastly, start thinking about your college essays. Colleges want to see your authentic self and how you handle different situations. Just remember to avoid cliché topics unless you can present them in an incredibly personal or unique way.
This is a lot of information, but take it one step at a time, and you'll be on track for college applications. Good luck!
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