Grade 10 Planning Timeline
For this year, you'll want to stay on track with your high school classes and activities and begin to narrow down the path for your future.
Fall / Winter
Stay on track with your courses
Enroll in courses you need to prepare you for college or a career. Move on to the next level of classes in the core subjects (English, math, science, social studies, and a foreign language).
- 4 years English and religion
- 3-4 years math
- 3 years science
- 2-4 years foreign language
- 1+ visual/performing arts
- advanced and honors courses, electives
Begin learning about the college admissions process
Get familiar with general college entrance requirements. The Guidance Office, Naviance, and college websites are all good sources of information.
Continue exploring
potential careers
Research possible careers to learn about the tasks, education, and training necessary for each occupation you are considering. Utilize Naviance's Road Trip Nation and career duster reports.
Take on new roles
Stay involved with your cocurricular activities, and work toward leadership positions in the activities you like the best. Become involved in community service and other volunteer activities.
Spring / Summer
Start getting ready for the ACT
In March, you will take the PLAN assessment offered by ACT. Your score report received a few weeks later will measure your progress toward college readiness and your career interests.
Job shadow
Consider "shadowing" an adult in a career of interest to you. Gathering information is important.
Keep your grades up
There is probably a lot competing for your attention, but it is important to remain focused on doing well in your classes. Remember that your grades impact your GPA and class rank. These are two primary factors that colleges consider in the admissions process.
Start your college search
Conduct a college search in Naviance to decide what factors are important to you. Attend college fairs, and read the material you get from all types of schools.
Contact colleges that interest you
Write to schools and ask for more information about their academic requirements, and any programs or activities in which you are interested. It is especially important to start this process now if you think you want to attend a military academy.
Update your resume
Record all items of interest, accomplishments and awards that will assist with college admissions.
Get a summer job
Finding steady summer work will look good to prospective colleges and employers. Putting the money you earn away for college will also help you get a head start on a personal savings plan.