CLASS OF
2024
Fall Career & College Checklist
Connect with your College Adviser and High School Counselor to review
your plans for your senior year to ensure you reach your postsecondary
goals for after graduation.
NARROW YOUR COLLEGE LIST
Pare down your potential college list by identifying a
Target, Safety, and Reach/Dream school (2-3 of each
is a great start!)
Research the college profiles, admission
requirements, and the application process at the
schools on your list.
Research colleges and universities. Which
schools offer the majors, degrees, certificates, and
credentials that align with your career interests?
Attend college rep visits at your high school.
Schedule campus visits to prospective colleges.
RESEARCH COLLEGE ADMISSION PROCESSES
Gather the information you need to complete an
application for each school on your list. You can find
each school’s application requirements on its website.
Evaluate if the College Board Common App or
individual college application meets your needs.
Identify important deadlines including Early
Action, Early Decision, Regular Decision, Rolling
Admission, and Open Admissions.
Visit tinyurl.com/feewaivers2023 for MCAN’s
list of colleges and universities that never have an
application fee.
BWCAN.ORG
bwcan.org
Visit our website for information on preparing for college and choosing a college, financial aid, and
more! You can also register for upcoming events. Explore at bwcan.org.
The Blue Water College Access Network is part of
RESA’s Design4theFuture college and career initiative
CONNECT CAREER INTERESTS TO COLLEGES
Use Xello to explore potential careers and
postsecondary pathways based on your personality,
skills, and interests. Access your free account at:
bit.ly/489yQOx
Identify education requirements such as degrees,
credentials, and certifications for job interests.
Research potential majors and programs that offer
these education and training requirements at the
colleges on your college list.
Attend BWCAN’s Michigan Career Outlook 2023
Webinar on Nov. 13 at 7 p.m. for a look at the most
high-demand, high-wage careers in the state.
WRITE APPLICATION & SCHOLARSHIP ESSAYS
Meet with your college advisor for insight and
guidance on how to ensure your college application
stands out.
Research the mission and vision statement of
each college on your list.
Brainstorm events, experiences, or individuals
that may have influenced your decision to attend
college.
Develop a rough draft based on the college’s
question prompts.
Make a list of 3-5 individuals to proofread your
essay before submitting it.
BWCAN.ORG @BlueWaterCAN