• As you select your class schedules for next year, go for the challenging courses!
• Sign up for an ACT or SAT.
• Some colleges are allowing in person visits, try to schedule a couple before the end of the year.
• Continue to do virtual visits as you start your college list.
• Think outside of the box as you perfect your resume!
• And yes….grades, grades, grades.  Keep working hard!
• Find time for something you enjoy, take up a new hobby.
• Begin to think about a productive summer.  You will need to allow time for creative writing for your essays over the summer.

• You should have finished your applications by now, completed your FAFSA and CSS profile (if needed) and hopefully have some acceptances!
• If you are deferred or wait listed, don’t despair.  Advise the admissions office of any honors or awards that you may have received since your application. Continue to keep your grades up as this could make the difference in whether you are accepted or not.
• Continue to check your status page on all of the colleges where you applied.  Should you be flagged for verification (FAFSA) make sure to reach out to the financial aid office with questions.
• Financial aid award letters should be arriving soon after your acceptances.  Reach out to admissions or financial aid with any questions. Make sure you have applied for scholarships in a timely manner.
• If you are close to meeting the Zell Miller scholarship threshold (in the state of Georgia)  take another ACT or SAT to reach that benchmark before graduation.
• Your goal should be as little loan debt as possible!

We hope that the holiday break allowed for a vacation from zoom for students and their families.

2020 was a year of firsts for all of us.  As we reflect back, in spite of the challenges there were opportunities for growth and renewal.

Remember to thank your teachers, guidance counselors, parents and guardians. They are juggling many hats and are your advocates!