If you wait until midway through your junior year of high school to work on your study habits, keep in mind that your freshman and sophomore grades (as well as the first part of your junior year) could end up costing you admission to one of your dream schools.

If you’re unsure what high school level classes (if any) are offered at your school, speak with your middle school counselor. They’ll be able to help you decide if these classes are suitable for you, too.

Don’t bite off more than you can chew; trying, at the most, 4-5 extracurriculars you really enjoy will help make sure you aren’t spreading yourself too thin. [4] X Expert Source Ted Coopersmith, MBAAcademic Tutor Expert Interview. 10 July 2020.

Be sure that you read each of the eligibility requirements for the scholarships you apply for. Some may require you to be involved in a sport, be in a certain extracurricular, or something else. You definitely won’t win the scholarships you apply for if you aren’t eligible, and they’ll end up being a waste of your time.

Try to volunteer for an organization that aligns with a career you’re thinking about.

You don’t have to make any firm decisions on your career path now. It’s very normal for plans to change as you age. However, it’s never too early to investigate professions you might be interested in and seek out mentors who can tell you about those fields.

Ask your family members or friends for help with this, so you can practice public speaking in front of them.