My last “first day of school” was bittersweet. I can only imagine what my last “last day” will be like. I didn’t have to spend hours picking out my outfit because as a freshman orientation counselor, we had to wear tie-dye to be easily picked out of the crowd if anyone needed help. On that note, both orientation sessions ran very smoothly and it was very rewarding to see our hard work come together.

Now that I’ve just completed my first full week of school, I’m beginning to settle into my routine, and I like all of my teachers. It was kind of a shock to go back to school and have basically a test ever day, but I’m getting used to it. I have one study hall at the end of the day most days, which gives me a chance to really work on all my homework, get ahead in studying, or go to the guidance office to work on college stuff.  The first week of school was eventful with the start of a ton of new clubs. So far, I’ve gone to Student Council, Latin Club, SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions), National Honor Society, and band meetings.

Student Council is a lot different for me this year, because the three other officers and I run the meetings for about a hundred students. We started planning for our fall homecoming and picked the theme of “Hollywood.” We’re trying to pump up the school spirit this year, and the early success of our sports teams has been a great help. Our football team has been in the local radio station’s spotlight for winning our first two games, just like the Buffalo Bills!

College work and applications are starting to pile up. In school, the counselors have scheduled several writing workshops, but since I have decided to apply early action for a few colleges, my deadlines are right around the corner. There are also a few school holidays coming up, and I think my family and I will make some last-minute college visits to schools near where we live, like the University of Rochester.

I feel like I learned a great deal from my college visits over the summer. For those of you who are just beginning visits or are overwhelmed by the number of possibilities out there, I’ve compiled a list of tips for a successful college visit that are tried and true (by me): (1) Look on the website beforehand, (2) check if an interview is recommended, and (3) have questions prepared so you aren’t caught off guard. In my opinion, the most important thing, besides listening intently, is to take notes. Even though you might not want to at the time, jot down your impressions during the info sessions and after the tour so you can refer back to your reactions while you were on campus. You can even make a pro/con list. Especially if you are interested in many schools, like I am, your notes will prove to be a great help as you are deciding what colleges to apply to and which ones are your top choices.

Since the ACT test is about a month away, it is time to step up and start studying more. I’m taking it for a second time on October 25. My dad helped me sign up on the website, and they are giving the ACT at my school, so I expect a similar, painless experience (about as painless as taking a test can be). Also for the rest of this month, I will be busy with homecoming activities: building the senior class float, planning the pep rally, decorating the halls, organizing theme days, planning events for the night, and encouraging participation. I hope to be done with most of my applications (most of my schools accept the common app, and I’m applying online) by the beginning of October. I’ll keep you posted.