1. Think about your priorities and list them in order of their significance to you.
2. Do an online college search by inputting specific criteria that are important to you.
3. Read everything you can get your hands on! Start with general college guides and college websites.
4. Email college admissions offices and request DVD’s, brochures, course catalogues and information about your special interests.
5. List the colleges which interest you the most.  The schools you list should vary in terms of selectivity. You should include at least two “likely” schools where you know you will be accepted, two or three “possible” schools, and two or three “reach” schools.
6. Talk with your counselor, teachers, parents, friends and alumni of colleges that interest you the most.
7. Study, register, and take the SAT, ACT, and Subject Tests (if appropriate) in the winter and/or spring of your junior year.
8. Visit the colleges on your list. Spend as much time as you can on campus and talk to students, faculty and admissions counselors.  Attend classes and plan an overnight if possible. Ask questions!
9. Continue to develop your special skills and talents.
10. Register for the most challenging senior year courses in subjects including English, history, math, science and foreign language.