Is It Okay to Contact Colleges as a Sophomore?

Many students and their parents wonder whether it is appropriate to start reaching out to colleges during the sophomore year. In my own experience, I was accepted to a business school during my sophomore year of high school. However, after discussions with my parents, we decided that attending a four-year university would be a better option.

Early Exploration

There’s absolutely no reason to opt out of college exploration too early. In fact, it can be a valuable and encouraging experience. Colleges do not put a 'file' on you or monitor your progress throughout high school. The match between you and the college you might be interested in largely depends on your academic performance, the courses you take, the interests you cultivate, and your overall achievements by the time you apply, such as AP exams or standardized tests like the SAT or ACT.

Physical and Digital Exploration

It makes sense to start by looking at the websites of the colleges you are interested in. Check their focus, whether they are primarily undergraduate or graduate institutions, and what their criteria are. By your junior year, you might begin to receive information from various schools in the form of brochures, emails, or social media invites. However, if you are currently doing very well in school, you are likely on the radar of many colleges by the time you enter junior year.

Taking Steps Towards College Selection

Now would be a good time to take a closer look at standardized tests like the PSAT. My highschool required us to take the PSAT during our sophomore year, which introduced us to the format and structure of the SAT or ACT. Personally, I found the ACT to be more to my liking. It wouldn't hurt to also start thinking about what you are looking for in a college, such as proximity to home, whether it's private or public, religious affiliations, and the ideal size of the institution. However, it’s too early to start actively reaching out to them at this stage.

Preparing for the College Journey

By the time you reach your junior year, you should seriously consider colleges, taking the SAT or ACT, and visiting college campuses for tours. This phase is both exciting and stressful, but it's essential to evaluate your academic and extracurricular interests. While it’s always a good idea to explore various majors, it’s crucial not to worry too much about finding the perfect one right away. My older brother initially planned to go into pre-med, but instead ended up with a degree in both math and history, with plans for a master’s in statistics. My father started as an art major but got a business degree in the end. These examples illustrate that while intentions are important, career paths can evolve significantly.

In summary, start early, both in terms of looking at colleges and preparing for college-related tests. While it is beneficial to begin this process in your sophomore year, it’s important not to spend too much time now worrying about where you will ultimately go to college. Enjoy exploring your options and finding the best fit for your future educational and personal goals.