How to Build a Strong College Application in 10th Grade (Guest Post)

Written by Lauren, Guest Contributor & Academic Writing Coach 

Getting an early start on your college application can make a world of difference. High school can feel overwhelming, and thinking about college applications might seem far off. However, starting early can actually relieve stress later on and ensure you’re building a standout application that showcases who you really are.

In fact, 10th grade is an ideal time to start preparing. You’re not under the intense pressure of junior year exams yet, and you have time to explore your interests and strengths.

Here’s a guide to help you create a strong college application without making the process feel like a chore.

Understand What Colleges are Looking For

Before diving into activities, it’s crucial to know what colleges value. Admissions officers aren’t just looking for good grades; they’re trying to get a full picture of who you are.

While GPA and standardized test scores still matter, colleges also value qualities like leadership, resilience, and initiative. Extracurriculars, community service, and personal growth all count. In a competitive landscape, every part of your application should work together to reveal your strengths, personality, and passions.

By focusing on developing these elements early, you’ll naturally build a strong foundation for your future college application. 

Get Involved in Extracurriculars That Matter to You

When it comes to activities outside the classroom, focus on quality over quantity. Instead of signing up for every club, pick one or two that genuinely interest you.

Colleges can tell when you’re truly passionate about an activity, and being deeply involved in something you care about will help you stand out. For example, if you’re interested in journalism, join the school newspaper and aim to become an editor. If you’re passionate about sports, consider helping organize events or even coaching younger students.

Remember, it’s not about filling your resume with titles. It’s about showing commitment and leadership. By sticking with your interests, you’ll naturally build an authentic story that’s easy to communicate on your application.

Take Academic Challenges Head-On

10th grade is the perfect time to start challenging yourself academically, but that doesn’t mean overloading on Advanced Placement (AP) courses or honors classes. Start with a few subjects you excel in or enjoy and work up from there.

Colleges notice when students stretch themselves, but they also want to see balance. A mix of challenging courses can strengthen your application, and early exposure will help you discover which subjects might be worth pursuing later.

For instance, if you take an advanced math class now and enjoy it, you might consider a career in engineering or finance. If English or History is more your strength, look into debate clubs, writing workshops, or history competitions. These experiences will all add depth to your college application.

Build Relationships with Teachers

This may seem early, but teacher recommendations are an essential part of any college application. It’s easier for teachers to write compelling, personal recommendations when they’ve had time to get to know you.

Start building those relationships now by actively participating in class, asking questions, and showing genuine interest in learning. A great teacher recommendation could highlight qualities that are hard to convey through grades or test scores, such as curiosity, work ethic, and enthusiasm.

By junior year, you’ll have established these connections, making it easy to approach teachers who know you well and can speak to your unique strengths.

Volunteer and Show a Commitment to Your Community

Colleges love to see applicants who care about their communities. Find a cause that matters to you and dedicate time to it regularly. This shows admissions officers that you’re not only focused on yourself but also on making a difference in the world around you.

Volunteering doesn’t have to be a grand gesture. Simple acts, like helping at a local animal shelter or tutoring elementary school kids, can make a lasting impression. What matters most is consistency and genuine care, as this reveals your character and commitment.

Build Strong Study Habits and Organizational Skills

Good study habits are essential for tackling the academic demands of college. Learning to manage your time effectively, take thorough notes, and study efficiently in 10th grade will save you stress later.

If you struggle with procrastination or time management, try out different strategies until you find what works best. For example, the Pomodoro Technique—working for 25 minutes, then taking a 5-minute break—might help you stay focused.

Organizational tools, like planners or digital calendars, can also help you keep track of assignments and deadlines. The ability to manage your own workload is a skill that college admissions officers appreciate.

Stay Curious and Explore Potential Career Paths

Starting in 10th grade, it’s helpful to explore careers that interest you. Not only does this provide direction, but it also helps with your college application by showing that you’re driven and have a sense of purpose.

If you’re interested in healthcare, consider shadowing a local doctor or volunteering at a hospital. If business excites you, take an online course or interview local entrepreneurs. Engaging in these experiences can also inspire the personal essays you’ll eventually write for your application.

For example, a student interested in social work might volunteer at a community center, which could later inform their application essay about why they want to help others.

Practice Writing and Reflecting on Your Experiences

Personal essays play a big role in college applications. Starting early with reflective writing will make it easier to communicate your story when the time comes.

Begin by journaling about experiences that shape you or challenges you face. Consider the lessons you learn and the ways you grow. This habit will help you later, as personal reflection makes for compelling essays that let admissions officers see who you are beyond test scores.

Prepare for College Entrance Exams Gradually

Although it might feel too soon to think about SATs or ACTs, getting familiar with the content and format in 10th grade can reduce stress later.

Try doing a few practice questions here and there. If you find that you’re consistently weak in a particular area, consider spending a bit more time on that subject.

However, don’t let testing overshadow everything else. Balance is essential, and a well-rounded application matters more than a perfect score.

Embrace Self-Care and Maintain Perspective

The college application process can be overwhelming. While it’s good to stay focused, remember that high school should also be a time to enjoy, learn, and grow.

Stay grounded by keeping up with hobbies, spending time with friends, and not getting lost in the race to college. Admissions officers look for students who know how to balance achievement with well-being.

In Summary

Starting your college application prep in 10th grade is all about building a foundation. Through thoughtful extracurriculars, academic challenges, and meaningful relationships, you’re setting yourself up for success in college and beyond.

At its core, a great college application is an authentic representation of you—your strengths, values, and interests. By approaching it with curiosity and dedication, you’re not only preparing for college; you’re shaping a path that reflects your passions and goals.

When the time comes to apply, you’ll be able to tell your story confidently, knowing you’ve built a compelling and genuine application from the ground up.

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