Now that we're into the spring semester, for the most part applications are done, midyear grades have been sent to colleges and students are expecting final decisions by the end of the month. In the meantime, there's important work to do. Be sure to monitor...
As spring approaches, it’s a good time for juniors to pause and refocus. How did the fall semester go? Grades remain the single most important factor in college admissions, so if you’re struggling in any class, now is the time to seek support. Depending on...
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:...
Ninth grade is all about building a strong foundation for a successful high school experience. That means focusing first on academics, and with the first semester behind you, there may be signs about where some additional focus might be needed. Equally important is exploration. If you...
For seniors, this is a milestone moment. Most of you have submitted your final applications, and many are celebrating exciting admission offers—congratulations! You’ve worked hard to get here. Even if you’re still waiting on decisions or wrapping up one last application, it’s normal to feel...
I hope you enjoyed your break and are returning to school feeling refreshed. Between academics, extracurricular activities, standardized testing, and college planning, this can be one of the busiest stretches of high school, but a little advance planning and a big-picture mindset can go a...
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 approach the halfway point of the school year, which classes are you enjoying, and where are you doing well? These questions can give you important insight, as 9th grade students will soon be asked to choose 10th grade courses. You don’t need to...
At this time of year, seniors are in the midst of a transition: applications are wrapping up, early round decisions are arriving, and attention is starting to shift from applying to what comes next. If you’ve already received good news from an Early Decision or...
December is a natural checkpoint in the college planning process for juniors now that PSAT scores are in, and standardized testing is starting to feel real. If you haven’t taken a diagnostic ACT yet, I recommend doing so soon, and comparing the score with your...