Now that your college applications are complete and you’ve finally hit submit, take a deep breath—you did it! You’ve written essays, revised drafts, chased down recommendation letters, and met deadlines that felt like Mount Olympus-level challenges. But like Odysseus on his long journey home, your work isn’t quite finished yet. This next stretch—your final months of senior year—is where perseverance still matters. Students who stay focused and purposeful now often find themselves even more prepared (and rewarded) when college begins.

Here are five ways to make the most of your post-application months—with a little wisdom your English teacher would definitely cheer for.

1. Keep Those Grades—and Writing Skills—Strong

Colleges still review your midyear and final grades, so maintaining academic excellence reinforces your college admissions profile. Keep reading, writing, and engaging in class discussions.
English teacher tip: Think of your transcript as your final essay draft—it still needs your best revision energy!

2. Take on a Leadership Role (Big or Small)

Continue to show initiative. Whether you lead a group project, help organize a club event, or mentor a younger student, leadership reveals character through action.
English teacher tip: Leadership is like a theme in a novel—it reveals character through what you do.

3. Gain Job or Internship Experience

Part-time work or an internship builds real-world responsibility and communication skills—qualities colleges and employers love.
English teacher tip: Real-life experience makes your writing and perspective stronger. You can’t write about life until you’ve lived some of it!

4. Start a Personal Project or Passion Portfolio

Create something new—a blog, short story collection, podcast, or art project. Colleges love self-starters who bring their interests to life.
English teacher tip: Like Jane Eyre, don’t wait for permission to define yourself. Build something meaningful with courage and creativity.

5. Stay Involved and Give Back

Keep volunteering or serving your community. Colleges notice commitment and consistency long after applications are due.
English teacher tip: Service is character development in real time—it shows who you are when no one’s grading you.

You’ve already conquered the hardest part—submitting your college applications. Now’s your chance to finish strong and show colleges (and yourself) what perseverance looks like. Like Odysseus and Jane Eyre, your journey isn’t just about reaching the destination—it’s about who you become along the way.