Freshman Year

Focus on Academics 

• Develop good study habits and aim for strong grades—this year sets the tone for the rest of high school. 

• Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Your teachers, advisor, the Learning Center, and other Baylor resources are here to support you. 

• Begin thinking ahead about the courses you want to take. Early planning opens doors later. 

Get Involved 

• Explore extracurriculars like clubs, sports, the arts, robotics, or debate. Trying new things helps you discover your interests and strengths. 

Build Relationships 

• Start connecting with your teachers and advisors. These relationships will grow into valuable support systems throughout your Baylor experience. 

College Counseling Milestones 

• Take the PSAT to gain familiarity with standardized testing. 

• Participate in four group sessions with the College Counseling Office to begin learning about the college process. 

• Attend key events: 

• Coast-to-Coast College Fair 

• Athletic Recruitment Night 

• Financial Planning Webinar 

 

Sophomore Year

Stay Academically Engaged 

• Continue building on your strong study habits and academic performance. 

• Begin preparing for standardized tests such as the ACT and SAT. 

Deepen Your Involvement 

• Commit to activities you enjoy and consider pursuing leadership roles. 

• Seek opportunities that connect your interests to real-world experiences. 

Start Career Exploration 

• Begin reflecting on potential careers that align with your skills and passions. 

• Use your summer break to explore through volunteering, internships, jobs, or enrichment programs. 

College Counseling Milestones 

• Take the PSAT again to track progress. 

• Participate in four college counseling sessions to continue learning about the process. 

• Meet individually with your counselor to plan next year’s courses. 

Attend: 

• Red Raider Road Trips (college visits) 

• Financial Planning Webinars 

• College Fairs 

• Case Studies Program (mock admissions with real college reps) 

 

Junior Year

Fall Semester 

• August: Get paired with your dedicated college counselor. 

• September: Begin official standardized testing. Baylor students take the ACT in October (with four hours of prep). Consider trying the SAT as well. 

• October–December: Visit colleges, attend fairs, and participate in the Baylor College Forum to hear directly from admissions professionals. 

Spring Semester 

• Meet regularly with your counselor to reflect on goals and build your college list. 

• Ask teachers for letters of recommendation. 

• Continue ACT/SAT testing if needed. 

• Participate in the Case Studies Program to better understand the application process. 

• Begin writing your college essay during the Common App Workshop. 

• Continue researching and visiting colleges. 

Summer 

• Finalize your college list. 

• Visit campuses if possible. 

• Complete your main college essay and begin drafting supplemental essays. 

• Decide if Early Decision is the right path for you. 

 

Senior Year

Fall Semester 

August:
Attend the Senior Workshop to fine-tune your application materials. 

September–December: 

• Submit college applications and test scores (if applicable). 

• Meet with your counselor regularly for guidance. 

• Attend college fairs and meet with college representatives visiting Baylor. 

• Discuss financial aid and scholarships with your family. 

• Monitor application portals to ensure all materials are submitted. 

• Stay in communication with your counselor as admission decisions begin to arrive. 

Spring Semester 

• Keep your counselor updated on admissions outcomes. 

• Make your final college decision by May 1. 

• Express gratitude to your teachers and recommenders.