Congratulations on finishing your first year of high school! I hope your freshman year was successful and fun. As things wind down, take this opportunity to reflect on your year and your accomplishments. Start a file on yourself, including your academic work such as report...
You’ve made your college decision and sent your deposit—congratulations! As you finish up with classes and exams, I hope you’re also planning lots of celebrations. Enjoy this time, because it will fly by. Remember to thank everyone who supported you along the way and let them know...
To those of you in the midst of APs exams, good luck! Many of you have also taken your first SAT or ACT and have scores, or will have them shortly. If you're planning another sitting, register now and figure out your prep plan. Summer can...
Believe it or not, you’re almost halfway through high school. These next few weeks offer an opportunity to boost your academic record at this mid-way point. If you did well in 9th grade and are taking more challenging classes this year, a strong finish can help you...
The most important criteria in college admission are your grades, and a strong finish in your classes over the next few weeks can help give you a strong start on your transcript. There's still time to make a real impact, so see your teachers if...
I'm pleased to announce two sessions I'm offering on college planning. On May 10 I'll be hosting College Admissions: A Road Map for 9th and 10th Grade Students at the Hill Center, followed by A Road Map for the Class of 2019 on May 16. Both sessions will cover what...
Decisions, decisions! With acceptances in hand I hope you have wonderful options on the table. For most students cost is a consideration, so for guidance on appealing financial aid offers, take a look at this recent article as well as these two from previous years. ...
At this point in the year you should be in regular contact with your school counselor and you may have been asked to complete a questionnaire or brag sheet for him or her. Be thoughtful and thorough, since this information will help your counselor advise...
Final exams are approaching, and now is the time to create a study plan. Need some help? Smith Rivas is offering an excellent study skills session on April 22 at the Hill Center. After all, who wouldn’t want “Better Grades in Less Time?” To register,...
Your first high school final exams are coming up and they’re an important opportunity to boost your grades for the year. As you start to prepare, check out the “Better Grades in Less Time” workshop on April 22 at the Hill Center. Smith Rivas can...