Monthly Action Plan

05. Monthly Action Plan for Devon Washington

This calendar gives you a month-by-month sequence to complete all key application tasks before deadlines. Each phase builds toward stronger academic presentation and polished materials for Emory University, Spelman College, and the University of Alabama at Birmingham. Follow each month’s checklist carefully, and refer to the relevant sections (e.g., §06 Essay Strategy) for detailed execution guidance.

Month Action Steps & Target Outcomes
Month 1
(Early September)
  • Compile academic record: Gather your full course list or unofficial transcript from your high school. Highlight advanced or honors-level science and math courses that align with your intended major in Public Health.
  • Verify accuracy: Double-check grades and course titles for consistency with your school’s official documentation to prevent delays in submission.
  • Upload for counselor review: Share the draft list with your school counselor to ensure it meets each college’s reporting requirements.
Month 2
(Late September)
  • Finalize academic materials: Submit your detailed course list or unofficial transcript to your application portal or counselor by the end of the month.
  • Confirm test registration: If planning a fall SAT or ACT retake, register now to secure your preferred date and location.
  • Begin light test review: Use official College Board or ACT practice sets to refresh quantitative and reading sections before deeper prep begins.
Month 3
(October)
  • Structured test preparation: Begin focused SAT/ACT study sessions three times per week. Aim for a 1400+ SAT or 31+ ACT score, as noted in the committee’s target range.
  • Practice testing: Complete one full-length timed exam mid-month to identify weak areas, especially in math and evidence-based reading.
  • Early application check: Verify Early Decision/Early Action deadlines for Emory and Spelman; decide if one will be your early submission choice.
Month 4
(November)
  • Final test push: Complete at least two additional full-length practice tests under timed conditions. Review errors and adjust strategies accordingly.
  • Test day execution: Sit for your scheduled SAT or ACT retake; ensure scores are sent directly to all target schools.
  • Essay integration: As test prep concludes, shift focus to refining essays (see §06 Essay Strategy) using updated academic context and potential test improvements.
Month 5
(December)
  • Policy/data brief draft: Begin outlining your policy or data brief connected to UAB research experience. Focus on clarity, data interpretation, and relevance to Public Health themes.
  • Seek feedback: Ask a teacher or counselor for input on structure and tone. Emphasize analytical reasoning and evidence-based conclusions.
  • Application updates: If new test scores arrive, update your Common App or college portals accordingly.
Month 6
(January)
  • Refine policy brief: Complete final edits to the UAB policy/data brief. Prepare a concise summary version suitable for inclusion in supplemental essays or interviews.
  • Document integration: Add a short description of the brief to your activities list if applicable, focusing on quantitative and analytical skills demonstrated.
  • Mid-year report: Ensure your counselor submits your mid-year grades to all colleges once available.
Month 7
(February)
  • Recommendation requests: Identify and approach two teachers—preferably in science or math—who can highlight your analytical and quantitative strengths.
  • Provide materials: Give each recommender your résumé, transcript, and a short note describing your interest in Public Health to guide their letters.
  • Follow up: Confirm each recommender understands submission deadlines for Emory, Spelman, and UAB.
Month 8
(March)
  • Confirm letter submissions: Check your application portals to verify that all recommendation letters have been received.
  • Final review: Revisit your essays and activity descriptions for consistency and alignment with your Public Health focus.
  • Scholarship updates: Research and apply for institutional or external scholarships relevant to health sciences or community health leadership.

Outcome by End of Month 8: Devon Washington will have completed all academic documentation, achieved a higher standardized test score, produced a polished policy/data brief, and secured strong recommendation letters emphasizing analytical and quantitative skills — fully positioning your application for competitive review at Emory University, Spelman College, and the University of Alabama at Birmingham.

← Archetype Gap Analysis Essay Strategy →