February 2025 Checklists

Maximizing spring break, exam readiness, and summer preparation

At a glance…

• Our free webinar “How to build the perfect college list is on Tuesday, 2/4 at 2:00 pm EST. Learn more about it!

• The Thursday 2/6 office hours are open to ALL subscribers! Be sure to drop in and AMA from 2:00-3:00 pm EST. Join here!

Upcoming ACT deadlines:

• 2/8 test

• 2/28 registration deadline for 4/5 test (no ACT in March)

• 4/5 test

Upcoming SAT deadlines:

• 2/21 registration deadline for 3/8 test (no SAT in January nor February)

• 3/8 test

Critical topics:

• Keep applying for summer programs

• Maximize college readiness during your spring break

• Register for the SAT/ACT

• Study for APs/IBs

9th graders

If you’re a freshman, then your jobs are:

• Stay curious. Explore topics that interest you by reading articles, watching videos, and engaging with relevant content. Whether you have a clear Admissions Angle or are still discovering it, consider starting a blog to document your evolving interests and academic journey.

• Plan ahead. As more extracurricular opportunities become available, think about how you want to get involved. What excites you? How can you contribute to your school community? Whether it’s joining a club or starting your own, take the initiative in shaping your high school experience.

• Prioritize academics. Maintaining a high GPA is essential for future college applications. Strive for strong grades from the start, aiming for A’s whenever possible. If you encounter challenges, seek help from teachers early to stay on track.