The New York Times is calling out to you, high school juniors.  They have put together a list of all the things you should be thinking about college-wise this month.  Here it is:

Take Stock of Yourself

As you dig in to the “search” phase of your college process, begin by reflecting on who you are, how you learn, and what you want out of the college experience. Be honest — how do you learn best? What environmental, cultural or other influences truly matter to you? Why? In what kind of community do you hope to live for the next four years?

Identify Circumstances That Will Shape Your Search

Finances may influence your eventual choice, or there may be personal or family situations that influence the geographic range of your search. Talk to your parents! If financing college is a concern, you’ll want to consider the total costs, the availability of need-based or merit aid, and your eligibility for aid. As you’re researching colleges, make use of the net-price calculators required to post on their Web sites to get a ballpark picture. And keep in mind that the stronger your profile is relative to the average profiles of the colleges on your list, the more likely you may be to receive merit aid.

Get to Know Your College Counselor

Learn the procedures and process at your school. Find out what resources are available to you. Help your counselor get to know you, and stay in touch as the process unfolds.

Ready for a few more assignments?  Check out the last three checklist items here.