Grade by Grade

Grade 10

1. Check in with your guidance counselor every term to review your course load and grades. Also discuss any academic or social problems you may have at school.
2. Be sure to see the college-planning calendar for sophomores. Even if you’re not sure that college is right for you, prepare as if you were. You can always change your mind later.
3. Register in September to take the PSAT in October. (If your colleges require the PLAN instead, take it in the fall.) Later, review your results with your guidance counselor and decide if you would benefit from an SAT (or ACT) prep class.
4. Take the 10th-grade MCAS in the spring. Passing this exam is a graduation requirement for public high schools in Massachusetts. You have a total of five chances to pass it.
5. To get a handle on your busy schedule, learn tips for managing your time, making decisions, and dealing with stress.
6. Draw up a list of college majors or careers that interest you(,) and check out any college fairs in your area. Also start researching different careers and salary expectations.
7. Ask your guidance counselor about taking a career interest assessment. CareerShip is one of several online assessments.
8. Get more involved with your extracurricular activities as a way to discover your interests and possible career paths.
9. Talk to your parents about ways to save and pay for college or other post-secondary education.
10. Look for a great summer opportunity, such as a job, volunteer work, summer school, or exchange program.