Every year of high school matters, and each one has different priorities. Whether you are a freshman just starting out or a senior preparing applications, these year-by-year action plans tell you exactly what to do and when to do it.
Freshman Year Plan
Course selection, first volunteering, building your activity log, and setting up for success.
ExploreSophomore Year Plan
AP courses, first shadowing, HOSA, SAT/PSAT prep, and deepening your involvement.
ExploreJunior Year Plan
The most action-packed year: testing, college research, clinical hours, and leadership.
ExploreSenior Year and Applications
Senior year is when all your preparation comes together. College applications, scholarships, and the "why medicine" essay.
How-To Guides
Step-by-step instructions for the experiences that matter most. Not theory. Real steps you can take this week.
Finding Shadowing Opportunities
Who to ask, what to email, how to behave, and how to log your hours.
ExploreClinical Volunteering
Programs that accept high schoolers, age requirements, and what to expect.
ExploreBuilding Your Activity Resume
How to track activities now so college applications are painless later.
ExploreScholarship Search Strategy
Named databases, local foundations, and a system to find money for college.
ExploreParents: see the plan
Our parent guide shows how to support each year without adding pressure.