Top 5 Things Seniors (and Parents!) Should Be Doing in September and October

Senior year in the fall progresses swiftly. With homework, activities, and applications, staying focused on immediate priorities can be challenging. This straightforward guide outlines five essential actions for students and five for parents to ensure everyone stays on track this September and October.

For Students

1. Nail Down Your College List

   
   

   It’s time to trim the fat and get serious about where you want to apply. Focus on a solid mix of reach, target, and safety schools. Stop adding new places and start putting your energy into the ones that really matter!

   
   

2. Ask for Letters of Recommendation

   
   

   If you haven’t already asked your teachers or counselor for letters of recommendation, now’s the time. Give them a heads-up and include a quick note about why you chose them so they can write something personal and meaningful.

   
   

3. Kick Off Your Personal Statement

   
   

   Don’t wait until the deadline is creeping up. Get a rough draft down, even if it’s a bit all over the place. You can polish it later—the key is to get started.

   
   

4. Wrap Up Testing Now

   
   

   By now, your SAT or ACT testing should be complete. If you still need one final attempt, aim for September or early October, and confirm that your target schools accept those test dates. Don’t let testing stretch into November.

   
   

5. Get Started on Your Early Applications

   
   

   Early decision and early action deadlines usually arrive in October or November. Start filling out the Common App and supplemental materials now—not the week before they’re due.

For Parents

1. Offer Encouragement, Not Pressure

   
   

   Your student is juggling a lot right now. A little support goes a long way. Try to keep the mood calm, even when deadlines feel stressful.
   

2. Help with Logistics

   
   

   Help manage practical details such as test dates, college mail, and calendar reminders. Leave the writing and decision-making to your student.
   

3. Track Deadlines Together

   
   

   Set aside time once a week to review what is due and when. A shared calendar or checklist can make the process less stressful.
   

4. Watch for Prestige Pressure

   
   

   It is easy to compare your student’s list with a neighbor’s or friend’s. Keep the focus on finding the right fit, not the most recognizable name.
   

5. Trust the Process

   
   

   This is your student’s journey. Give guidance when asked, but let them take the lead. Confidence and independence now will serve them well in college.

Need help? Summitways can help with any part of the college application process.