August may still feel like summer, but if you’re part of the Class of 2027, your junior year has already started, whether you’re ready or not.

This year is one of the most important chapters in your college journey. It’s when your academic record becomes more permanent, your test scores start to firm up, and your college list begins to take shape. The good news? Starting now doesn’t mean adding stress. It means creating a plan that works for you.

Here’s how rising juniors can set themselves up for success before the first bell even rings.

1. Start Building a College List (Even if It’s Rough)
   You don’t need a finalized list yet, but you do need a starting point. Whether it’s ten schools or just two, having names in mind makes everything else easier. Want to explore colleges in big cities? Thinking about business or healthcare? Those answers can guide where you visit and what questions to ask this fall.

Action step: Pick 3 colleges to research and consider scheduling visits for fall break or long weekends.

2. Set a Testing Timeline, Not a Panic Button
   For many juniors, the ACT or SAT will be the first big benchmark. That doesn’t mean you need to start prepping tomorrow, but you should decide when you want to test and work backward from there.

Most students target the December, February, or April ACT, with many choosing to test more than once. Starting now gives you breathing room.

Action step: Take a free practice test to figure out your baseline and what kind of prep you’ll need. (We host one every month in Brookfield—reach out to get signed up.)

3. Build Your Resume in Real Time
   The Common App asks for up to 10 activities and most juniors forget half of what they did freshman year. Start a running document now with clubs, sports, jobs, and community service. Add leadership roles and key accomplishments as they happen.

Action step: Use one Google Doc to keep track of all activities, hours, awards, and dates. You’ll thank yourself later.

4. Make a Plan to Visit Colleges
   Fall is a great time to tour campuses, especially while students are in session. Campus visits help you understand what kind of environment you’re drawn to and give you real language to use when it’s time to write application essays.

Action step: Identify one or two colleges within driving distance to visit this fall. Try to go when classes are in session so you can sit in on a class or talk to a student.

5. Think Strategy, Not Perfection
   This year isn’t about doing everything at once. It’s about moving forward with purpose. Juniors who plan now save time, reduce stress, and avoid last-minute decision-making next fall.

If you don’t know where to start, we’re here to help. At Class 101 Brookfield, we work with students in 9th–12th grade to build custom plans that fit their goals, their schedule, and their budget.

Schedule a free consultation to build your college game plan before the school year even starts.