19 Sep Road Map for September: Seniors

Welcome to senior year, Class of 2025! This is such an exciting time, and I’m thrilled for all the opportunities and milestones ahead of you. While there’s plenty of fun to come, there’s also some important work to tackle first. In addition to your coursework, activities and college applications, there are two key tasks to focus on, one for students and one for parents.

A top priority is to secure your letters of recommendation. You may have requested letters in the spring or summer, and this is the time to check in with your counselor and teachers to follow up and meet if needed, or perhaps complete a brag sheet with information you’d like them to include. If you haven’t yet asked for the letters you need, reach out to your selected teachers as soon as possible. Giving them plenty of time before your deadlines is crucial. I suggest aiming for two teacher recommendations in addition to your counselor’s letter. You might also consider an additional letter from a mentor, coach, employer, or other adult who knows you well, since many colleges will accept these too.

For parents, financial aid forms will be available soon. The FAFSA opens December 1 this year, but if students are applying to schools that require the CSS Profile, it will open on October 1. Check the financial aid page of each school’s website to see if this form will be on your to-do list.

Even if you’re not looking at CSS Profile schools, now is the time to get organized. Both the student and parent will need to create FSA IDs, which take a few days to process before you can access the FAFSA. (Note that the Student Aid website currently shows the FAFSA for students who are in college this year, but the form for next year has not been released yet.) Gather essential documents, like your 2023 tax returns, bank statements, and records of income and assets. Double-check the financial aid process and deadlines for each college on your list, paying attention to any additional requirements for merit-based scholarships.

I’m currently working with students on applications, essays, and finalizing their college lists. If you’re looking for one-on-one support, please contact me to schedule a time to talk.