10th Grade College Prep Checklist
Think about what you have learned since the start of high school — have you gained any new interests? Discovered new hobbies? This information is important and should be applied to your continued consideration of your future goals.
Use this checklist to help get prepared.
- Use Your Resources
- Talk about the ideas, plans and goals you have for your future with family members and your school counselor. You don’t have to have all the answers, but these discussions can help you envision the possiblities.
- Schedule a visit with your school counselor to ensure you are on the right path and taking advantage of the opportunities to help you meet your career and college goals.
- Understand Your Career Interests
- Take an interest and skills assessment test to help you explore different career options — free tests are available online.
- Research career fields and the education needed to prepare for various careers.
- Participate in different extracurricular activities offered at your high school to see the things you enjoy and don’t enjoy as much.
- Explore College Options
- Familiarize yourself with the many colleges in South Dakota. Browse their academic program offerings and learn about the activities and support each can offer their students.
- Start thinking about how you might pay for college – saving money, learning about financial aid, and understanding scholarship options available in South Dakota is a great start.
- Set Strategic Coursework Goals
- Set a goal to take the high school courses required to qualify for the South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship. (With the right coursework and ACT score, you can receive up to $7,500 for college.)
- Review your high school course plan and think about taking courses that align with your possible career interests. If your school doesn’t offer them, ask your school counselor if there are virtual options you should consider.
- Consider taking High School Dual Credit classes during your junior year so you can earn college credit while still in high school.
- Consult with your school counselor to ensure you are on track to be eligible for High School Dual Enrollment coursework.
- See the Dual Credit Advisory Tools and certificate opportunities on ourdakotadreams.com to help you consider the course options that would most benefit you based on your interests.
- Find Other Opportunities
- Participate in South Dakota’s Week of Work to explore, experience, and engage in work-based learning opportunities!
- Check out Career Ready SD for how work-based learning can help you learn about potential careers by connecting with local businesses to explore, engage, and experience as you grow toward your future career goals.
- Look into internship opportunities to earn money while getting first-hand career experience.
- Engage in career exploration, including career camps and summer enrichment programs like HOBY or Boys State and Girls State.
