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 know your future major yet, but you may be noticing that you enjoy certain subjects more than others—whether that’s STEM, the humanities, or the arts. Paying attention to those patterns can help guide your choices. Course selection is an opportunity to explore your interests and challenge yourself—but do so thoughtfully. While colleges like to see academic rigor,  balance is important too. My rule of thumb: aim for “challenging but not overwhelming.”

This is also a good time to think about how you learn best. Do you thrive with hands-on projects, in-depth writing assignments, group study, or one-on-one time with teachers? Understanding what supports your learning can help you make the most of the rest of this year by taking advantage of those opportunities.

Beyond academics, consider how you’re spending your time outside the classroom. If you’re not already involved in activities you enjoy, this is a great time to try something new. With opportunities like the MLK Day of Service coming up, you can explore your interests, give back to your community, and continue growing both academically and personally.