Standardized test dates: The SAT or SAT subject tests are given on June 5; the ACT is June 12. And, while you might not want to be reminded right now: You can also register for tests in the fall.

Stay focused to the finish. Colleges look closely at your coursework from junior year. Your grades are one of the most visible indications of your academic ability. Make them count — all the way through final exams!

Finalize summer plans. Volunteering, working, or attending a summer learning program? This is the month to put those plans in gear. Create a budget for summer spending and saving.

Plan a trip or two, working around family jaunts. You'll be more relaxed this summer than in the fall. If you like what you see, you can make a return trip and stay on campus during senior year.

Clean up your image! Do your profiles (Facebook!) represent a view that you don’t mind sharing? Admissions staff may visit the Web to find a more complete picture of applicants. Use an appropriate e-mail address as well.

Think about life after high school (PDF). As hard as it is to believe now, high school will be over in less than a year! Then what? Discover how college can pay off (PDF). Even if you’re not yet certain about college, plan to apply as a senior.

Take a break. You're done with junior year! Congratulations! While it pays to do some college searching while you have free time, be sure to take a breather this summer. Check the online road map to stay on track, but don't stress: college is just one step along your way.

You've completed sophomore year and are an official "rising junior"! Congratulations! Do some college searching while you have free time this summer.

Find a summer job, volunteer, or take a course. Who knows? A summer opportunity may lead to a future job or recommendation. Summer is also a great time to take a class or pursue an interest you don't have time for during the school year.

Consider visiting a college or two while on family vacations. Compare different options: urban and private, two- and four-year, and public and private. You don't need to go far: there are lots of colleges and universities right here in Vermont!

Read. It's one of the best preparations for college (and standardized tests). Take a book with you to the hammock, pool, or beach. And plan summer reading for school, too. Don't save assignments for the last weeks before classes resume.

Explore your future. Use VSAC Web tools such as VT Guidance Central, visit the VSAC Resource Center in downtown Winooski, or get college guidebooks and other resources through VSAC’s interlibrary loan.

Pursue your dreams! Your skills and what you like to do today say a lot about what you might like to do later on. Start where you are to go where you want. Take time this summer to investigate your interests.

Take a test drive. Visit a campus or two during summer, if convenient, coordinating with family travel. Sign up for a tour, attend an info session, and get a sense of the general vibe. Look at different college environments: urban or rural, small or large, private or public.

Sign up for planning reminders and tips from VSAC to help you on your college quest during junior and senior years.