Senior Bucket List: 5 Things Your Student Must Do Before College
Ask any NCA graduate how they’d describe their senior year, and you’ll likely get two responses: “busy” and “fun!” Twelfth grade is an exciting time. Seniors enjoy their season of leadership in our school while working hard and preparing for the next step. As the high school chapter comes to a close, students realize how quickly time passes. To make the most of an important year, we recommend creating a Senior Year Bucket List. Start with these five items, and make it your own by adding a few more!
1. Leave Your Legacy
As a student at NCA, you can make a difference in our school, our community, and our world. Leave your mark by participating in one of our many Christian service activities. Doing so will allow you to reach others for Christ while making an impact that will last long after your senior year. What’s more, service initiatives are great resume builders, as colleges and future employers like to see people who are interested in being a part of something bigger than themselves.
2. Visit College Campuses
Touring campuses is a vital step in the enrollment process. Not only that, it is a lot of fun and a great way to get amped about college life. From the many world-class schools in NC, to new adventures around the country, the options are truly endless. We encourage students to consider both public and private universities; our graduates are currently studying at the nation’s top Christian schools including Wheaton University, Cedarville University, and Liberty University. Even if you are already set on a certain college, it never hurts to expand your horizons and schedule some tours. If you have a friend who is undecided, offer to be their tour buddy and provide a shoulder to lean on as they make the big decision.
3. Capture the Memories
Selfies anyone? Take as many pictures as possible…just not during class time! Whether you are documenting everyday life with your friends or special moments such as homecoming or a big game, you’ll be glad you have the tangible memories to look back on. Feeling crafty? Before graduation, print your pictures and make a scrapbook with friends. Whether you look back on these memories during your first year of college or in a decade, they’ll become more valuable every year.
4. Try Something New
Most students participate in the same activities year after year. While we love seeing our seniors grow and invest in their unique talents, we think it’s important to try new things as well! NCA offers a variety of clubs and enrichment activities. Explore some of these untapped resources to learn something new and develop new relationships. For some suggestions, check out our Whole New World blog.
5. Have a Scholarship Party
Last year, NCA’s Class of 2015 earned over $2 million in scholarship funds! See if you can outdo them by applying for as many as possible. Our College Guidance Counselor, Kelli Larsen, can help you identify scholarship opportunities that are right for you. Make the paperwork less painful by scheduling a scholarship party with your friends. With snacks and great company, you’ll be done with the hard part in no time. We can’t wait to see what you can accomplish!
Share Your Memories!
Give our students some additional ideas for their Bucket Lists and have fun reminiscing; we encourage you to share your Senior Year memories with NCA by posting them on our Facebook page! If you would like more information about our high school or college preparatory programs, call (704) 596-4074 or contact us online.