Five things you need to figure out before your senior year

5. Create a schedule

I can't say this enough. You need to decide early on how you're going to manage your time so you can get homework and other special projects done on time. Otherwise, good luck getting them finished at 4 a.m.

4. Start visiting colleges during your sophomore and/or junior year

It's a good idea to get a head start on what you want to do with your life. Trust me; you don't want to be visiting colleges in the midst of all the other stuff you have to do for senior year. Figure it out beforehand so that it's one less thing you have to worry about.

3. Save your pennies

You really don't want to be caught in your senior year of high school or your freshman year in college without cash. If you don't have a job by your junior year, I suggest you get one and begin putting money away. Some students have to pay for a college education by themselves, and I don't think you want to be empty-pocketed then!

2. Keep an eye out for college scholarships

Apply for college scholarships early and often. Even if you don't think you'll get the scholarship, apply anyway. A little extra cash never hurt. Some scholarships have earlier deadlines than others, so watch out - the one you want may sneak up on you when you least expect it.

1. Wean yourself off "The Office"

I enjoy prime-time television as much as the next person, but remember No. 5? You need to prioritize certain things in your life; things that are important to your future. That being said, if you don't have time to watch your favorite shows, you should find a way to break the urge to watch "Lost" every Thursday night. Otherwise, you're going to be roped back in.