Assemble Your  
Success Network
Getting to and succeeding in college requires 
a team effort. One of your first steps on the path to 
college is building your success network of trusted 
advisors — individuals who care about you and your 
future and who will support and guide you.
Who Should Be in Your Success Network? 
•Parents and guardians can provide personal support.
•Teachers can offer academic support, help with  
your college application essay, and write college  
recommendations.
•School counselors can help you choose college 
prep classes, focus your college search, meet  
application requirements and deadlines, and write 
college recommendations.
•Mentors, coaches, coordinators at community-based 
organizations, and club advisors can offer advice  
and encouragement.
•Trusted family members and friends can share 
valuable insights and emotional support.
Becoming a successful college applicant and college student takes planning, vision, and dedication.  
Understanding yourself, your goals, and your options — and doing your best in high school — puts you  
in a position to make good choices about your future.
A Special Message for Parents  
and Guardians
You are essential to your child’s preparation for  
college. The encouragement and assistance of parents 
and guardians is a valuable asset. Whether or not  
you went to college, supporting your child throughout 
this process and sharing your life experiences will 
make a big difference. 
•Visit college campuses with your student.
•Attend college and financial aid workshops.
•Encourage strong academic performance.
•Help your student stay organized with deadlines.
•Explore careers and colleges together using Xello.
•Utilize resources available through this publication 
and school-based college access programs.
•Celebrate milestones and provide emotional support 
throughout the process.
In this section: 
Assemble Your Success Network, p. 6
Assess Your Interests and Strengths, pp. 7-8
Be a Successful Student, pp. 9-10  
Set Personal Goals, pp. 10-11
Create Your Resumé, pp. 12-13
Activities: 
Career Self-Assessment, pp. 7-8
Create Your Action Plan, p. 11
6
Preparing for College
Swarthmore College

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