You made it! Welcome to your junior year of high school!
This is a big year for you! You’ll be narrowing your college search, taking standardized tests, and learning more about scholarships and financial aid. We know: it’s a lot to take in! No worries; the Culinary Institute of America has got your back with this, your junior-year calendar checklist for college. We’ll help keep you organized and set you up for success.
September: Stay on Track
Meet with your guidance counselor to discuss the different majors that can help you achieve your dream career. Talk to them about the year ahead and confirm that you’re on the right track for college admission.
October: Start Your College Search
Make a potential list of colleges you’re interested in learning more about. Then, attend college fairs and speak to the colleges’ representatives.
November: Get a Taste
Come get a taste of CIA firsthand! A visit to CIA is unforgettable—from the kitchens to the dorms to the food. Sign up for a campus tour!
December: Stay Involved
Take on more responsibility in your extracurricular activities or part-time job. Keep a record of your accomplishments, activities, and work experiences. This will be an important part of your college application.
January: Practice at Home
Check out these online resources—how-to videos, amazing recipes, and interesting food stories to keep you learning, cooking, and enjoying food at home.
February: Get Prepared
Schedule your test dates and begin getting ready for the ACT and SAT. CIA does not require these test scores for admission, but be sure to send them in anyway, because they may help you qualify for merit scholarships.
March: Make Connections
Continue building relationships with your teachers this year, as they are who you’ll most likely ask for a letter of recommendation for your application for admission. If you know a CIA graduate, ask them for a letter of recommendation to receive a $1,000 Alumni Referral Scholarship.
April: Get to Work
Apply for a summer internship or job. Work a summer job to gain experience, build a résumé, and save money for college.
May: Funding Your Education
Gather information about financial aid from colleges you’re interested in. CIA is committed to helping you receive the best financial aid package available. Be sure to check out additional scholarships on our exclusive $hef website, a database of more than 200 scholarship opportunities for admitted and enrolled students to apply for.
June: Fast-Track Your Future
Senior year is right around the corner, and we already see big things ahead for you. Apply through CIA Summer Action by September 1 and you’ll get a non-binding admissions decision by September 15—before senior year even kicks into high gear. Skip the stress—get your admissions decision early.
July: Visit Campus
Visit campus for a day to get a sneak peek at what makes CIA the perfect place for you! Can’t make it to an Open House? Visit our website to see our full list of admissions events, including online open houses and campus tours. No matter when you plan to attend, we’ll work with you to make your visit experience the very best.
August: You’re a Senior!
You’ve made it to your senior year of high school—yay! Stay on top of your studies but also remember to really enjoy your last year at the school that helped shape you into the person you are today.
Tour Campus or Attend an Online Event
Whether you’re looking to visit one of our campuses or would prefer the convenience of a virtual event, there’s no better way to learn more about CIA than with one of our admissions events.