June Updates from the AHS Counseling Department

We have made it to June!  In many ways it has been a challenging year, but it also was a year of a bit of normalcy compared to the previous year which is much appreciated.  

The most important update we want to share is a huge, gigantic, enormous CONGRATULATIONS to the Class of 2022.  It has been quite a unique four years for you, but you have accomplished so much and made us proud every step of the way.  

We're also excited for all of you who are continuing your education in college.  You are headed to some really excellent places!  UMass-Amherst, Penn State, Ohio State, RPI, UMichigan, Northeastern, Tufts, Indiana, Purdue, BYU, Vanderbilt,  Hawaii Pacific, University of Glasgow, MIT just to name a few... we are going to have Class of 2022 Clockers all over the place!

UNDERCLASSMEN let this be a lesson to you: there are so many opportunities out there for you.  The senior class has shown you the way (just as you will show the way to the grades beneath you).  Keep working hard and more opportunities will open for you...

Here are some more updates from the AHS Counseling Department...

* Seniors, a reminder that we automatically send your final transcript out to colleges for you immediately after you graduate.  Nothing you need to do on your end!

* Sophomores and Juniors, you can now register for the SAT!  The link with dates and registration information is below.  Sophomores, we recommend that you take the test towards the end of your junior year... and unfortunately registration has not opened for those dates yet, so you may want to hold off for now.  Juniors, we recommend that you take the test on August 27th or October 1st, this way your scores will be available to apply early to colleges should you choose to do so.  Get your spot now!

SAT: https://satsuite.collegeboard.org/sat/registration/dates-deadlines

ACT: https://www.act.org/content/act/en/products-and-services/the-act/registration.html

* Athletes, if you think that you may be pursuing playing sports in college and are being recruited to do so, you will want an updated copy of your transcript from your counselor once final grades have closed.  Coaches will ask for this so they can get an idea if you are in line with the admissions requirements of their school.  Reach out to your counselor at the end of the year for assistance with this.

* Make sure you spend some time READING this summer.  Keep your mind sharp and continuing your learning.  Doesn't matter what you read, pick something you will enjoy.  If it can be done sitting in a comfy chair on the beach with your toes in the sand, even better.

* The summertime is a great time do go visit colleges.  Yes, most colleges DO offer tours over the summer.  The campus may seem a bit quiet as most of the students have gone back home, but it can still give you an opportunity to get a sense of the campus and what they have to offer.  Keep in mind also that many colleges will offer Open Houses in the early fall, so keep your eyes open for those dates on the college's Admissions or "Visit Us" part of the website.  Not sure where to tour?  Ask your counselor for some recommendations.  We're happy to point you in the right direction!

* Get a summer job!  So many places are looking for quality help and are hiring high school aged students.  This is a great way to build your resume, make some money, and learn independence and responsibility.  Start by visiting places that you like to go to yourself, and ask them if you can fill out an application.  Like going to the mall?  Fill out an application at every single store!  Better to make money by hanging out at the mall than spending money!


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