Before you know it, you'll be opening acceptance letters. You still have to take care of a few things though, like graduating! You should take the SAT's in the fall- especially if you are applying early. Study hard for the test, because it is probably your last chance before applications are due. If you have not taken at least three SAT II's- make sure to do so. Remember, many colleges have SAT II requirements. If you are not content with your SAT II scores from junior year, retaking them cannot hurt.

In the classroom, do not enter senior slump during the first semester! You have to maintain a challenging schedule- and do well. Colleges look very closely at first semester grades from senior year. Once your applications are in, you can probably begin to focus more on lacrosse than you did first semester. But, remember, if you become waitlisted, colleges rely heavily upon second semester grades.

Keep in contact with your college guidance counselor. Make sure he/she knows your feelings about each school on your preliminary list. Ask him/her your honest chances of getting into each college. Together, and with your parents, begin to narrow your list of schools down to about 3-5 (not including safeties). If there is one school that is your clear favorite, discuss applying early with your family and counselor. Either way, make sure that you have the applications for each school you are interested in. Begin working on the applications as early as possible- applying to college is a time consuming task that should not be left for one weekend. Decide what you are going to write your essay(s) about.

If funding college is an issue, talk to your guidance counselor and your family about possible options. Maybe you'll have to cut a couple schools off the list. Perhaps you can apply for various scholarships (especially if an athletic scholarship looks doubtful). Most schools offer financial aid and/or academic scholarships- so make sure to inquire about these.

Throughout the entire process, make sure you are in contact with the coaches of all the universities to which you plan to apply. Begin to get a feel for the program and the coach (in which division do you fit best?). How does the coach feel about you? How would you fit in the team? Remember to be honest with yourself. Do all the research necessary so that you can be as informed as possible.

Start planning official recruiting trips and/or unofficial visits as early as possible. Make sure these visits do not interfere with your athletics and school work. Inform your teachers that you will be missing work. Also remind your coaches and ask for a workout to do while visiting. If you are planning on applying early, be extra sure you plan your recruiting trips early, and make sure you are aware of all the appropriate deadlines. Don't let "recruiting" adversely affect your athletic performance- just compete as best you can and enjoy your senior year!