Summer is one of the best times for college‑bound students to get organized without the heavy stress of homework, tests, and daily school schedules. The goal isn’t to finish everything in one week. It’s to make steady, manageable progress.

Here’s a practical checklist students can begin right now.

1. Update your student resume

Write down:

• Activities and clubs
• Sports and leadership roles
• Jobs (including part‑time and summer work)
• Volunteer experience
• Awards or recognitions

This doesn’t have to look like a “formal” resume yet. A running list in a notebook or document is a great start.

2. Create a scholarship tracker

Scholarships can feel confusing because there are so many deadlines and requirements. Create a simple tracker with:

• Scholarship name
• Website or link
• Deadline
• Requirements (essay, recommendations, GPA, etc.)
• Status (not started, in progress, submitted)

Students can add to this list all summer and into the school year.

3. Make a list of colleges, trade programs, or career pathways

Include:

• Four‑year colleges and universities
• Community colleges
• Trade or technical programs
• Apprenticeships or certification programs

Students don’t need to be “sure” yet. Listing options helps them see the variety of pathways available after graduation.

4. Ask two adults about recommendation letters

Encourage students to identify at least two adults who know them well—teachers, counselors, coaches, supervisors, or mentors. They can ask:

• “Would you feel comfortable writing a recommendation for me later this year?”
• “What would you need from me to make that easier?”

This early conversation makes the process smoother when deadlines arrive.

5. Review FAFSA and financial aid basics

Financial aid is often one of the most overwhelming parts of college planning. Recently, FAFSA completion has been a major national challenge. The National College Attainment Network reported that the Class of 2024 finished summer with only 51.4% FAFSA completion after the rollout issues. That number represents real students who may have missed out on grants and aid they qualified for.

Summer is a good time to:

• Learn basic terms (FAFSA, grants, scholarships, work‑study, loans).
• Visit the official FAFSA site to understand what documents are needed.
• Talk as a family about who can help with financial aid questions.

6. Visit campuses virtually or in person

Campus visits help students picture themselves in different environments. They can:

• Take virtual tours on college websites.
• Visit nearby campuses in person, even just to walk around.
• Attend information sessions or community events hosted by colleges.

7. Identify at least one support person

Students should not have to navigate this process alone. This summer, encourage them to identify at least one:

• Mentor
• Counselor
• Teacher
• Program (like DAAP)

They can check in with this person as questions arise throughout the year.

CTA: DAAP helps students move from confusion to clarity by encouraging early preparation and consistent support one step at a time.