As the school year comes to a close, think about what you accomplished this year. What goals did you set for yourself and how much progress did you make? Celebrating your successes and learning from any setbacks can help you make the most of the...
As we speed toward the end of the school year, I hope everyone's AP exams are going well and that you’re feeling ready to tackle finals. This is an important stretch, so stay focused on finishing strong. Take advantage of any review sessions your teachers...
As you move through the second half of 10th grade, it’s a great time to start thinking more intentionally about what you want your college experience to look like—without the pressure of building a formal college list just yet. The goal right now is exploration...
I learned recently that my 9th grader will take the PSAT 8/9 this month. Most of my conversations about standardized testing are with 10th and 11th graders, so I thought I’d share some thoughts on what younger students (and their parents) might want to know. What...
We’re past the midpoint of the school year, and many students are choosing courses for next year. As you review your options, aim for a thoughtful balance. Colleges want to see that you challenge yourself, but not that you overwhelm yourself. My rule of thumb:...
As the new year gets underway, which activities are energizing you, and which ones feel less meaningful? If you’ve found clubs, teams, or projects you truly enjoy, look for ways to get more involved—taking on a larger role or committing more deeply can be both...
As we move toward the end of the year, this is a great moment to pause, reflect, and look ahead. What went well for you this year, either academically or personally? What challenges did you face, and how did you work through them? Understanding what...
Many of you have recently received your first report card of the year—I hope your year is off to a strong start! This is a great moment to pause and reflect. Remember that academics remain the most important factor in college admission, and as your...
I hope your sophomore year is going well and that you’re enjoying the fall season. As we approach the end of the first grading period, reflect on what’s been going well. Are there classes or activities you especially enjoy—and ways to explore them further? This...
Welcome back to school—I hope it's off to a great start! Even with a year of high school under your belt, it still may feel like a time of transition—adjusting to new classes, getting to know your teachers, and figuring out where you want to...