As the weather warms and spring break is within reach, this is a great time to set goals for the homestretch of the school year. Whether you want to improve academically, explore extracurricular interests, or get a head start on college planning, a little preparation now will set you up for success.

Start by making a list of what you hope to accomplish. Do you want to shore up your grades or prepare for AP exams? Break your goal into actionable steps, like forming a study group or attending help sessions with teachers. If you’re starting to think about college, consider attending an upcoming college fair to explore different schools and connect with admissions representatives.

This is also a time to firm up your summer plan. In addition to whatever fun activities you have in the mix, it’s a good idea to include something constructive, such as an academic experience, job, internship, or community service. There’s no one “right” activity for college applications; what matters most is using your time in a meaningful way.