Avoiding Senioritis

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High school seniors sometimes believe that because they have worked so hard throughout high school, they have earned the right to slack off in their senior year, especially in the last few months. By now, mid-year grades are on their way to colleges, and students may have already been accepted at their favorite school. Why not kick back and enjoy life? We refer to this syndrome as “senioritis.”

However, an offer of admission is conditional, and students are expected to maintain their academic performance throughout senior year. Every year, colleges around the country rescind admission offers, meaning a student’s acceptance is withdrawn after it has been granted, most often because final grades, behavior, or information reported on the application no longer meet the college’s expectations.

You are admitted to a college based on the information in your application. If there are any changes, you should notify the college. If you have dropped a class that was listed on the transcript you submitted to colleges, your application has changed. Colleges receive your final transcript during the summer, and you don’t want to find out in July that you no longer have a place in the freshman class.   

It is much better to be honest and explain why you dropped the class or why your grades have gone down. If the drop in academic performance is severe enough to jeopardize your acceptance, admissions officers can advise you on how to salvage your admission.

There’s another reason to keep working hard in school. It makes the transition to college-level work easier. That’s one of the advantages of taking AP, IB, or dual-enrollment courses if qualified, which require a high level of commitment throughout senior year in order to prepare for AP exams in May. The anti-slacker curriculum built into AP classes will help you adjust to college coursework more easily.

If you start procrastinating during senior year, it’s difficult to get back to good study habits when you arrive at college, where there will be distractions and no parents reminding you to finish your history paper before you go out for pizza with your friends.  

While you do need to keep your grades up, making sure you have some fun will help you avoid burnout. Summer is less than six months away, and you will have plenty of time to play before you go off to college. 

It’s not only lower grades that can torpedo an offer of admission. While spray painting the school gym might seem like a fun prank to you and your friends, a disciplinary issue can also mean the end of your college acceptances.

Students who keep senioritis under control will get their reward when they embark on the great adventure of college in just a few months. 

Focus on Majors: Film & Media

When most people hear "film major," they picture a student holding a camera or directing a scene. But today's film and media programs cover far more than that. Colleges now offer majors in creative producing, film and media studies, digital arts, screenwriting, entertainment marketing, and even the business side of Hollywood. If you're interested in storytelling, whether through movies, TV, animation, social media, or something new, there's likely a program designed for your version of creativity.

One of the first things students learn when researching film programs is that no two schools define the major the same way. Some programs lean heavily toward theory and analysis, exploring how films shape culture, identity, and society. These are perfect for students who love dissecting what they watch and want to write, critique, or study media rather than produce it.

Other colleges focus almost entirely on hands-on production. Students spend hours filming, editing, writing scripts, designing sound, or creating animation. These programs often require students to apply directly to a BFA track and begin creative work right away. Schools known for this immersive experience, such as USC, NYU, Chapman, Emerson, LMU, and DePaul, often expect students to collaborate in crews and build a meaningful body of work by graduation.

Many film, production, and digital media programs require a creative portfolio in addition to the regular application. Depending on the school, this might include short videos, scripts, photography, storyboards, editing samples, or written reflections about why storytelling matters to you. Many of these programs also require students to write and submit additional essays after their original application is submitted.

Even when portfolios are optional, submitting something creative often strengthens an application. Students who think they might want to major in film should start building work early through school projects, summer programs, or independent experiments shot on a phone. What matters most is not expensive equipment but curiosity, effort, and a willingness to take creative risks.

There are also hybrid paths that combine creativity with business and strategy. Some programs teach students how to produce films, pitch ideas, manage budgets, build marketing campaigns, or help artists promote their work. Others lean into digital storytelling, giving students experience in podcasting, YouTube production, streaming platforms, and social media content creation.

Because each college approaches film differently, students should think carefully about what part of the industry sparks excitement: creating stories, analyzing them, promoting them, or making sure they actually get made.

Depending on the program, students might take classes in film history, cinematography, editing, screenwriting, documentary storytelling, producing and budgeting, animation, sound design, or entertainment law and marketing. Some programs ask students to rotate through different roles, while others encourage them to specialize. Many graduates use their storytelling, design, communication, and tech skills in advertising, business, nonprofits, education, and other fields.

The entertainment world is competitive, but students who take advantage of internships, build portfolios, connect with mentors, and explore multiple aspects of media develop skills that transfer well beyond a film set.

If you're thinking about studying film, figure out what part of the creative process excites you. Do you want to direct, produce, write scripts, edit, analyze films, market them, or create digital content? Once you know your goals, you'll be better prepared to find programs that match your style and help you grow as a storyteller. 

 Career Paths for Film Majors:

⎻Producer or Director

⎻Social media strategist

⎻Development Assistant 

⎻Editor

⎻Line Producer 

⎻Content Producer 

⎻Talent manager

⎻Independent Producer 

⎻Film or media critic

⎻Archivist or media librarian

⎻Researcher or content analyst

⎻Multimedia artist

⎻Digital illustrator 

⎻Screenwriter

⎻Playwright

⎻Podcast writer 

⎻Entertainment marketer

⎻Publicist or PR assistant

⎻Promotions manager 

The School Profile

When families think about college applications, they focus on essays, test scores, activities, and transcripts. But there's another document that plays a major role in how colleges understand a student's accomplishments, and most students never even see it.

It's called the School Profile, and it accompanies every transcript your high school sends to colleges. This one to two-page document provides an overview of your high school and is created and updated each year by the counseling office. Its purpose is simple: to give admissions officers a clear understanding of the high school environment from which a student comes.

Colleges don't evaluate applicants in isolation. They evaluate them in the context of their high school, and the School Profile explains what that context is. Think of it as a lens through which colleges view the transcript. Without it, admissions officers would have no way to know whether a high school offers 20 AP classes or none, whether a particular GPA is considered excellent, or whether a senior class of 60 has different leadership opportunities compared to a class of 600.

Most School Profiles include the same core information. They describe basic school details such as enrollment numbers, student-to-teacher ratio, and school type. They outline the curriculum and academic programs available, including honors, AP, IB, or dual enrollment offerings, and any limitations on access to these courses. They explain the grading scale and GPA policies, including whether GPAs are weighted and how class ranking works. They list graduation requirements so colleges understand what courses students must take. Many also include information about the school community, available opportunities like clubs or internships, and where recent graduates have enrolled in college.

Colleges rely heavily on this document. A student who takes two AP classes at a school that offers four is evaluated differently from a student who takes two at a school that offers twenty. The profile shows what "rigorous" means in that specific environment. It helps admissions officers determine whether a particular GPA places a student in the top 10% or is merely average. It reveals whether leadership roles are competitive or limited, and whether certain activities even exist at the school.

Most importantly, the School Profile helps level the playing field. Two students from completely different backgrounds should not be judged as though they had identical opportunities. The profile ensures colleges evaluate students on what they did with the resources available to them, not on what their high school did or didn't provide.

Students don't submit or interact with the School Profile at all. Counselors send it automatically alongside transcripts. If you’re curious, you can often find your school’s profile by searching your high school’s name along with “school profile.” Colleges use this document to understand the academic landscape you’re learning in and to evaluate your choices within that context. What matters most is how you challenged yourself, given what your school offers, how you made the most of the environment you were in. Admissions officers are looking for students who have grown and pushed themselves within their capabilities.

Financial Matters: Understanding Your Financial Aid Letter

You’ve opened the email, logged into the portal, and there it is: your student has been admitted and offered a financial aid package. Relief and excitement last about thirty seconds. Then you start scrolling. Numbers appear. Some seem promising. Others are confusing. Loans and grants blur together, unfamiliar acronyms pop up, and suddenly you’re wondering whether this school is truly affordable or whether you’re missing something important.

You’re not alone. Financial aid award letters are notoriously difficult to interpret, largely because there is no required standard for how colleges present them. While schools follow general federal guidelines, they are free to format award letters however they choose. That means two colleges can offer very similar aid packages and make them look completely different on paper. Understanding how to read these letters is essential before making any enrollment decision.

A financial aid award letter outlines what a college is offering for one academic year. Most include some version of the school’s cost of attendance, the types of aid offered, your student’s Student Aid Index (SAI), and the remaining amount the family is expected to cover. The problem is that these elements aren’t always clearly labeled or even fully included.

One of the biggest sources of confusion is how loans are presented. Grants and scholarships, which do not need to be repaid, are often listed right alongside work study funds and loans that do need to be paid back. In some cases, the only clue that something is a loan is a small code such as “L” or “LN.” This distinction matters because most financial aid offered nationwide comes in the form of loans, not free money. A package that looks generous at first glance may rely heavily on borrowing.

Another common issue is how colleges calculate and present costs. Many award letters underestimate the true cost of attending the school. Some list only tuition and fees, leaving out room and board, books, transportation, and personal expenses. Those missing line items can easily add $15,000 to $25,000 per year. Families often don’t realize this gap until the semester begins and unexpected expenses start appearing.

To make sense of the numbers, it helps to understand two terms that often appear on award letters: net cost and net price. Net cost subtracts all financial aid—including loans and work-study—from the cost of attendance. Net price subtracts only gift aid, meaning grants and scholarships.

This difference is critical. Net cost can give the impression that the school is covering more than it truly is, because borrowed money is included. Net price is closer to reality. It reflects the discounted price of the college after free money is applied, but before loans. This is the number families ultimately need to plan for, whether through savings, income, borrowing, or a combination of the three.

You may also see your Student Aid Index buried somewhere in the letter. The SAI represents what the federal formula estimates your family can contribute. It is not financial aid, even though colleges may roll it into their calculations or remaining balance.

Because award letters rarely show the full picture, families should reconstruct the true cost themselves. Begin with the school’s full cost of attendance, ensuring it includes housing, food, books, transportation, and personal expenses. Then subtract only grants and scholarships. What remains is the amount your family must realistically expect to cover each year. The NASFAA comparison worksheet is a useful tool.

There are additional details worth close attention. Some colleges “front-load” financial aid, offering higher grants during the first year and less in later years. This can make a school appear affordable at the start, but far more expensive over time. Ask whether grants and scholarships are renewable and whether typical aid amounts change after the first year. If answers are vague, tools like the U.S. Department of Education’s College Navigator can provide helpful context.

Private scholarships can also affect aid packages in unexpected ways. At some schools, outside scholarships reduce loans. At others, they reduce institutional grants. This practice, known as scholarship displacement, can significantly change the value of a private award. Always ask how outside scholarships are treated before assuming they will lower your out-of-pocket cost.

Finally, remember that financial aid offers are not always final. If a package doesn’t reflect your current financial situation or seems inconsistent with offers from similar schools, you may have grounds to appeal. Appeals are most effective when they’re based on documented changes or clear comparisons, not just disappointment.

Financial aid award letters aren’t designed to make this process easy. But with the right framework, they become far less intimidating. The goal isn’t just to see how much aid is offered—it’s to understand what’s free, what must be repaid, and what your family will truly be responsible for paying, both now and in the years ahead.

Choosing High School Courses

When choosing courses for the following year of high school, do you pick classes because they will look good on your college application? Do you worry that you aren’t taking enough or any honors or AP classes? The truth is, that successful college preparation looks different for every student, whether your goal is a small private college, a flagship university, or an elite college. The key to all future academic opportunities is a well-rounded education, so students should seek to gain skills, knowledge, and information. Students also need to find ways to develop a global perspective by learning more about the world beyond their classroom. Be knowledge-thirsty as opposed to grade-hungry!

To be competitive, students should aim to take four years in all core subjects. This includes English, the same foreign language, history/social science, math, and science. Elective classes can also reveal the range of an applicant’s interests and help enrich their overall presentation. Taking advanced classes in your areas of academic interest also reveals more about you. Advanced Placement (AP) and Honors courses represent one approach to academic challenge. It's important to consider the amount of time and work needed to fully engage in the course. Too many honors and AP courses can sometimes become overwhelming due to the amount of reading, writing, and other preparation required within the context of a student's overall schedule and extracurricular activities. Standard-level courses, on the other hand, are equally valuable and often more appropriate for building strong skills.

For students with learning differences or those who find standard courses better suited to their learning style, success comes from finding the right balance. Imagine you're learning to play a musical instrument - while some students might jump into advanced pieces, others might benefit more from mastering basics with excellent technique. Both approaches can lead to becoming a skilled musician.

Think of course selection as creating your academic soundtrack. Some students might excel at classical piano, while others shine in jazz or contemporary music. Similarly, your academic choices should reflect your strengths and interests while gradually building your capabilities.

This means different things for different students: for those with particular academic strengths, it might mean taking advanced courses in those areas while maintaining standard-level courses elsewhere. A student comfortable with mathematics but who finds language arts challenging might take AP Calculus while enrolling in standard English classes.

Many students find success through paths beyond traditional high school courses. Dual enrollment at a community college can provide a different learning environment. Summer programs and online courses offer flexibility in timing and pacing.

Colleges are like different types of communities - each with its own culture and expectations. Some might emphasize research and academic intensity, while others might value practical experience and hands-on learning. The key is finding institutions that match your preparation and goals.

Advice for parents supporting your student through this journey: Like being a good coach - you want to challenge them appropriately while avoiding burnout. This means encouraging courses that match their abilities, helping them access support resources when needed, and celebrating progress rather than only grades. Successful college preparation isn't about maximizing course difficulty - it's about building a strong foundation for future learning while developing confidence in your abilities. Think of it as training for a marathon - the goal isn't to sprint every practice run but to build endurance and strength consistently over time.

Remember, students, you can’t design your school’s curriculum but you can control how you complete your four years of high school, so plan well. 

Take advantage of all opportunities at your school and in your local area. Try to immerse yourself in meaningful activities that reveal more about who you are and what matters to you. Remember, go for quality not quantity. Consider ways to supplement and/or advance your curriculum by completing a dual-enrollment program or summer classes. Aiming for mastery in core subjects will clearly show readiness for the rigor of the college classroom. 

Taking the SAT or ACT in a Test-Optional World

Over the past several years, hundreds of colleges have adopted test-optional, test-flexible, and test-blind admissions policies. For many students, that shift has brought relief. For others, it has created confusion. If colleges don’t require test scores, why take the SAT or ACT at all?

The reality is more nuanced. Test-optional does not mean test-blind, and for some students, submitting scores can still be an advantage. For others, skipping the test is the smarter choice. The key is understanding how scores are actually used and when they add value.

At test-optional schools, students can decide whether or not to submit SAT or ACT scores. If scores are not submitted, colleges evaluate the application only using grades, course rigor, essays, recommendations, and activities instead. While that sounds straightforward, admissions officers are still trying to assess academic readiness, and standardized tests remain one tool that some colleges view as important for evaluating potential success in college.

One advantage of submitting scores is that a strong result can reinforce academic ability, especially for students whose transcripts may not fully show their potential. A solid test score provides an external point of comparison. It’s also important for families to understand that this is not a one-time, all-or-nothing decision. Students can choose to submit scores to some colleges and not others, using them strategically where they strengthen the application and opting out where they do not add meaningful value.

It’s also important to look at how test-optional policies play out in practice. For example, Duke University is test-optional, yet recent Common Data Set data show that roughly 85% of admitted students submitted SAT or ACT scores. That tells students that while scores aren’t required, most successful applicants felt their scores strengthened their applications. By contrast, Northeastern University reports that closer to 40% of admitted students submitted scores.

Test scores can matter beyond admission. Some colleges use SAT or ACT results for merit scholarships, honors programs, and academic opportunities, even if they’re test-optional. Policies vary by school, so skipping tests may unintentionally limit options.

That said, there can be real disadvantages to testing. Students with test anxiety, learning differences, or limited access to preparation may find their scores do not reflect their true abilities. In those cases, submitting scores can weaken an otherwise strong application.

The most important takeaway is this: choosing whether to submit test scores is not about gaming the system. It’s about making a thoughtful, strategic decision based on where a student’s strengths are and understanding that test scores are just one piece of a much larger picture.

Financial Matters: Understanding College ROI

College decisions are being made in a very different environment than they were a generation ago. Costs have increased significantly, outcomes vary widely by major and institution, and families now have access to more data than ever before. As a result, return on investment, or ROI, has become a more common part of the college conversation.

ROI is not a single number in education, and it is not a verdict on whether college is “worth it.” It is a framework for understanding patterns and outcomes over time. When used thoughtfully, ROI helps families ask better questions rather than search for overly simplified answers.

The cost side of the equation is often the first place families focus. For an in-state public university, the average total cost of attendance over four years, including tuition, fees, room, and board, typically falls between $110,000 and $120,000, depending on the state; out-of-state, the average is $183,000. At private nonprofit colleges, four-year costs are more commonly close to $243,000, with wide variation based on institutional pricing and financial aid policies. At some private universities, the full, undiscounted cost can approach $390,000 over four years. These figures, drawn from College Board Data and Education Data Initiative updated through 2024 and 2025, help explain why families are eager to understand what outcomes tend to follow such investments.

College costs can feel confusing because schools report tuition-only versus total cost, annual versus four-year figures, and national averages that often look very different from the price of a specific college.

One of the most important ways to think about ROI is across different timeframes, not just in the first job after graduation. Research estimates that individuals with a high school diploma earn roughly $1.6 million over a full working career. Those with a bachelor’s degree earn closer to $2.8 million on average, while individuals with a master’s degree earn about $3.2 million. Professional and doctoral degree holders often earn $4 million or more over a lifetime. These figures reflect long-term trends across large populations rather than guarantees for any one individual, but they help explain why college continues to show aggregate returns over time.

A student’s major choice is another factor often examined in ROI research because it’s one of the few variables that can be easily categorized and measured. Analyses using federal data show that earnings differences between majors at the same institution often exceed differences between colleges. However, majors do not map cleanly to careers, and many graduates enter fields that differ from their undergraduate major. Because labor markets are evolving and new roles continue to emerge, ROI data by major reflects past outcomes, not guaranteed future results. Traditional ROI analyses focus on what can be quantified, but they do not fully capture transferable skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, and self-advocacy that influence long-term outcomes. In a labor market that continues to evolve, ROI is shaped less by choosing a “right” major and more by how well students develop skills that allow them to adapt over time, communicate, and solve problems.

ROI is also shaped by how students use their time in college. Federal data point to stronger outcomes for students who complete internships, participate in undergraduate research, or hold leadership roles, especially when those experiences are connected to career exploration. Two students with the same major and degree can graduate with very different outcomes, depending on access to opportunities and whether they took advantage of them. In this sense, ROI reflects not only the credentials earned but the experiences attached to them.

Although ROI is often discussed in financial terms, earnings alone do not capture every long-term outcome. Large national studies show that individuals with higher levels of education report higher average life satisfaction and emotional well-being over time. College completion is also associated with differences in health outcomes and life expectancy, influenced in part by job stability, working conditions, and access to healthcare. Surveys further suggest that college graduates are more likely to report meaningful work, stronger social connections, and a sense that their education helped them find opportunities aligned with their interests.

ROI data is useful because it highlights patterns across large populations and long time horizons. It can help families compare options and understand tradeoffs. What it cannot do is predict individual outcomes or define success for every student. Time, major, institution, experiences, and individual effort shape college outcomes. ROI helps frame the conversation, but the final decisions remain personal.

Financial Matters: Pitfalls to Avoid in Your First Year

For many students, the first year of college is their first real taste of financial independence. While this is an exciting time, it’s also a period where financial missteps can have long-lasting consequences. Parents and students should work together to develop smart money habits from the start. Here are some common financial pitfalls and how to avoid them.

Many students start college without a clear plan for managing their money. Without a budget, it’s easy to overspend and run out of funds before the semester ends. Parents should discuss needs vs. wants. Warn your student about scams and how to avoid impulse spending.

• Solution: Sit down and create a monthly budget that includes tuition, rent, groceries, transportation, and entertainment. Easy-to-use budgeting apps such as YNAB or Goodbudget can help track spending.

Some parents provide their college students with an allowance to help cover expenses beyond tuition, rent, and meal plans. This support can be an effective way to teach financial responsibility while ensuring students have enough for day-to-day needs. But how often should parents send money—weekly, biweekly, or monthly?

• Solution: Set clear expectations on what the allowance covers and what happens if the student runs out of money.

Credit card companies often market aggressively to college students, offering appealing sign-up bonuses. However, high interest rates and overspending can quickly lead to debt. 

• Solution: Use credit cards responsibly by charging only what can be paid off in full each month. Consider a student credit card with a low limit to build credit responsibly.

Beyond tuition, there are many other expenses to consider, such as textbooks, lab fees, and social activities. These hidden costs can add up quickly. 

• Solution: Plan for these expenses by setting aside extra funds or purchasing used books and digital versions when possible. Consider getting a part-time job to have additional spending money.

Many students assume that their opportunities for scholarships and grants disappear once they start college.

• Solution: Continue searching for financial aid opportunities throughout college. Many scholarships are available for upperclassmen, and some schools offer grants based on academic performance.

Student loans are a common way to finance education, but not all students fully understand their repayment terms. 

• Solution: Read loan agreements carefully, understand interest rates, and have a repayment plan. Make interest payments while still in school to reduce long-term debt.

Going out to eat and attending social events can quickly drain a student’s budget. 

• Solution: Take advantage of meal plans and look for free or low-cost campus events for entertainment.

Many businesses offer discounts to students on everything from software to public transportation. 

• Solution: Always ask about student discounts and always carry a student ID. Small savings add up over time.

The first year of college is an important time to establish good financial habits. By avoiding these common pitfalls, students can set themselves up for a more secure financial future. Parents should encourage open conversations about money and provide guidance as needed. With careful planning, students can enjoy their college experience without unnecessary financial stress. 

Focus on Majors: Environmental Studies

If you care about climate change, clean water, protecting wildlife, or creating healthier communities, environmental majors offer real ways to turn that concern into a career. Students interested in preserving natural resources and addressing environmental challenges often find themselves choosing between two closely related majors: environmental science and environmental studies. While the names sound similar, the focus of each program is different, and the best fit depends on how you want to make an impact.

Environmental science programs are grounded in the natural sciences and focus on understanding how the physical world works. Students study biology, chemistry, physics, and earth sciences to investigate environmental problems and develop solutions. Coursework includes classes in ecology, geology, hydrology, atmospheric science, and environmental chemistry, combined with labs and fieldwork that provide hands-on experience. Because much of this work involves collecting and interpreting data, students also build strong technical skills, learning to use computer programs for data analysis, digital mapping, and geographic information systems (GIS).

Graduates work as environmental consultants, water quality specialists, wildlife biologists, conservation scientists, and sustainability coordinators. Entry-level positions are available with a bachelor's degree, though many research or academic roles require a master's degree or Ph.D. 

Environmental studies programs take a broader, more interdisciplinary approach. In addition to studying natural sciences such as biology and geology, students explore social sciences and humanities, focusing on how human behavior, policy, economics, and culture shape environmental issues. Students might analyze climate policy, study land-use planning, examine environmental justice, or explore the ethical questions behind conservation and sustainability.

Coursework often includes environmental policy, energy systems, environmental law, economics, ethics, and urban planning. Because programs vary widely by college, students should carefully review each school's course catalog. Some programs lean heavily toward policy and advocacy, while others balance social science with applied environmental work.

Graduates pursue careers as environmental policy analysts, park rangers, urban planners, environmental educators, nonprofit program directors, and sustainability managers. Some positions are available with a bachelor's degree, while graduate study opens doors to specialized roles like environmental law or policy leadership.

Many students pursue double majors or combined degrees that blend both fields, allowing them to develop scientific expertise alongside policy and communication skills. This combination can be particularly valuable in careers requiring both technical knowledge and the ability to work with communities or policymakers.

Students interested in environmental majors can start preparing in high school by taking biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science, and math courses, including calculus or statistics. AP Environmental Science or AP Human Geography can provide valuable exposure. Volunteering with local conservation groups, participating in outdoor education programs, joining environmental clubs, or completing a science research project can help students explore their interests and build relevant experience.

Whether you're drawn to hands-on scientific research or to shaping environmental solutions through policy and social change, environmental science and environmental studies both offer meaningful ways to make a difference. The choice comes down to whether you want to focus on the technical side of understanding environmental systems or the human side of creating change through policy, education, and advocacy.

Career Paths for Environmental Science/ Studies Majors

⎻ Agricultural agent
⎻ Animal scientist
⎻ Aquarium or science museum director 
⎻ Biochemist
⎻ Ecologist
⎻ Environmental activist
⎻ Environmental attorney
⎻ Environmental consultant
⎻ Environmental planner
⎻ Environmental researcher
⎻ Environmental scientist
⎻ Forest ranger
⎻ Government regulator
⎻ Natural resource specialist
⎻ Outdoor adventure educator
⎻ Pollution engineer
⎻ Range manager
⎻ Soil scientist
⎻ State park resource ecologist
⎻ Toxicologist
⎻ Waste management technician
⎻ Wildlife biologist

Course Registration: Making Smart Choices

Course registration can feel exciting, overwhelming, or somewhere in between. You’re being asked to make decisions that seem like they matter a lot, and in some ways, they do. The good news is that you don’t need a “perfect” schedule. You need a thoughtful one that fits you.

Start by understanding your graduation requirements. Every high school has specific courses students must complete to earn a diploma and be eligible for college admission. Checking in with your school counselor each year helps ensure you’re on track and avoids last-minute surprises.

A strong schedule balances challenge and manageability. 

Taking advanced classes can be a great idea, but only if you can handle the workload while maintaining solid grades and your well-being. Teachers are valuable guides; they know your work and can help you decide whether honors, AP, IB, or dual-enrollment courses make sense. Try not to be influenced by your peers. As you move through high school, your schedule should reflect gradual growth, not instant perfection.

Ninth grade is about adjustment and building strong habits.
Focus on learning how high school works and finding your footing academically. Complete core classes at a level where you can be successful, and don’t feel pressure to take all the hardest options right away. Progress matters more than piling it all on at once.

Tenth grade often brings more exploration and a step up in challenge.
If ninth grade is going well, this may be the time to consider honors or AP courses.

Pay attention to prerequisites and keep experimenting with electives. Notice what feels energizing, what feels manageable, and what might be too much as activities outside the classroom increase.

Junior year tends to be the most demanding and requires careful balance.
This is when rigor, time management, and future goals all collide. Choose electives in subjects you enjoy or may want to study in college. Lean into your strengths while protecting time for rest and recovery.

Senior year still matters—so finish strong.
Meet with your counselor to confirm you’re on track to graduate.  It’s important to finish strong if you’re planning on postsecondary education. If you plan to apply to competitive colleges, this is not the time to drop rigor levels significantly, take a minimum schedule, or start underperforming. Colleges will look at senior year rigor and ask for mid-year grades! Take classes that are meaningful, develop skills you'll need to be successful in college, and help you transition to college-level work without a shock. Plan a schedule that keeps you challenged, healthy, and provides the balance you need to manage extracurricular commitments and the college application process.

Colleges look for steady growth, appropriate challenge, and consistency over time. Thoughtful planning, not perfection, is the goal.

Insights Into Playing Sports in College

Many student-athletes dream of playing a sport in college. However, with competitive recruiting, levels of play, and misconceptions about scholarships, insight into how the process works and what it truly takes to compete at the college level is essential.

The desire to play must come from the student, not the parents. The commitment and demands of college athletics can be overwhelming, even when a student is fully invested. Many assume excelling in high school or club sports guarantees recruitment, but only 7% of high school athletes play in college, and not all see playing time (NCAA). Just 1–2% play at the Division I level, so seek guidance and honest feedback from coaches experienced in collegiate athletics to assess realistic opportunities. And with the current changes in laws governing NIL, many rosters are getting smaller.

Student-athletes must actively engage in recruitment by communicating with coaches, creating highlight reels, attending showcases, and maintaining training and nutrition regimens. Strong grades open more doors for admissions and scholarships—students should research schools that align with their academic interests and long-term goals, not just athletic fit. Keeping an open mind about different divisions increases the chances of finding the best overall opportunity.

Beyond skill, coaches recruit leaders, team players, and hard workers. Character, attitude, and coachability can be as important as talent. Being a good teammate and demonstrating resilience on and off the field make a lasting impression on coaches.

A common misconception is that playing in college guarantees a scholarship. However, full athletic scholarships are rare; most receive partial scholarships, if any. Division III schools offer no money for athletics (NCAA). Strong academics remain the best way to maximize financial aid and admissions opportunities.

The time commitment of college athletics varies widely. Division I athletes may dedicate 40+ hours per week to their sport, making athletics a primary focus (NCAA GOALS Study). Division III offers more flexibility, allowing students to pursue internships and other interests. Club and intramural sports provide competitive and recreational opportunities with less commitment. Athletes can stay involved in their sport without NCAA pressures.

The key for those who want to compete at the next level is taking ownership of the process. Student-athletes should work daily to reach their goals, remain realistic, prioritize academics, and understand that some elements of luck and timing are outside their control. For those committed and talented, playing a college sport builds time management, leadership, and resilience that benefit students' careers and lives. Relationships built through athletics create lifelong friendships and professional connections beyond the field. It can be an incredibly rewarding experience, teaching valuable life lessons and preparing students for future success.

Spring Reminders for Seniors

As the grey days of winter fade, you may be feeling all kinds of emotions! This is a really exciting time and I hope that knowing you have great college options to choose from helps keep your nerves at bay. Each of you have worked really hard this year, and I know that each of you already has wonderful options to choose from. Remember, where you go does not dictate who you become.

Here are the things to do and keep your eyes on:

Award Comparison Tab now available

This tab is now viewable on your College Companion Spreadsheet.

Keep your grades strong - avoid senioritis!
Colleges have the right to rescind offers of admission if your grades drop significantly during your senior year. Keep your grades up and finish your high school years strong. They admitted you, assuming you would continue to perform academically at the same level noted on your transcript. If your grades have significantly changed, please contact me so we can craft a letter to your admission counselor explaining your circumstances. Read more here…

Compare Financial Aid awards
Use the "Award Comparison" tab in your College Companion spreadsheet to compare financial aid awards and costs of attendance across all of your colleges. If you would like help filling out this spreadsheet or have other questions, please let me know. I am happy to set up an appointment!

Send your Mid-year grades.
Some of your colleges require you to send in your mid-year grades. Unsure which ones? Check your college portal, contact your admission counselor, or reach out to me!

Track important dates and information requests from your colleges.
These include admitted student day invites, housing information, deposit deadlines (typically May 1), and requests for additional information.

Attend admitted student events
Attending an admitted student event is a great way to meet other students attending the same college as you. These events may also include information about orientation, course registration, housing, and other helpful sessions to get you ready to come to campus. Watch for emails about admitted student events to your student portal and personal email account. 

Check the enrollment deadlines for your colleges
You must submit your enrollment deposit to one school (no more than one) before the school's enrollment deadline, usually May 1. Your offer of admission and college checklists will have this date on them. You can also check the admission office website to confirm this date. You can submit this deposit before the deadline if you have already decided where to go.  

Send a "thanks but no thanks" email or letter to the schools you won't be attending. You can find an example letter in your Digital Binder.

Waitlisted?
The last round of admissions decisions will arrive between now and early April. If you are waitlisted at your top school, please let me know, and we can discuss your strategy.

Prepare for AP exams
Good luck to those of you who are taking AP exams in May! Spend some time preparing for the exam to earn the highest score possible. Khan Academy offers free preparation courses for AP coursework and exams.Scores of 3, 4, or 5 may qualify for college credit. You can find your college's AP credit policies on the college's website. You can also ask your admission counselor for information about the score you need to receive credit for AP coursework.

Spring Reminders for Sophomores

University of Colorado - Boulder, 2025

Expand your academics

Is there an elective that you want to take, but you can’t because there’s no room in your schedule next year? Consider taking the class during the summer! Your school district likely offers summer school options - watch for announcements about enrollment and course offerings this spring. No summer school? Reach out to me for some online options.

Make Plans to Build Your Activities Resume This Summer

Summer is a great time to relax, but it’s also a great time to explore academic interests and build your resume. Even a part-time job can help you understand what you could be interested in doing for a career.

If you already know what you want to do for a career, consider taking a college class or participating in a research program that will give you a deep academic experience. For example, UW’s Summer Sessions have lots of options (online and in person), and registration begins in April. Other colleges also offer summer courses and programming - to find those options, search for “high school summer programs” on your local college’s website.

Not sure what you want to do for a career or what you want to major in? No problem! Think about the things you already enjoy doing and expand on those activities. Love being a camper at summer camp? Consider becoming a camp counselor. Love apps and games on your phone or tablet and have ideas about improving them? Consider teaching yourself how to code or attend a coding camp like the ones offered through Digipen.

If you already participate in clubs and organizations, there are opportunities to expand your resume. You don’t have to be the club president to build responsibility and experience. Look into leadership positions or ways to take more responsibility for specific events or projects with which the organization is involved. Is there a project the club is considering creating that you can join the planning team for?

Want more ideas?

• Look through this list of summer opportunities I have put together.

• Check out this article from TeenLife about summer activities and search their database for summer programs

• Use the Summer MatchPoint AI Search Tool to find other national-level summer opportunities.

Tour Local Colleges
Now is the time to start visiting campuses in your local area to get a sense of what a college campus is like. I call these “criteria building” campus visits and they can be done any time between now and fall of your Junior year. School in-service day? Go visit a college in the area! Visiting family in a different part of the state or country? Find a college campus to visit! Use the resources in your Walberg College Counseling Digital Binder to help you plan your visit and use these tips to guide your visit:

• Take notes and pictures. They will help when trying to remember the atmosphere of the school.

• Use opportunities like school days off and in-service days to visit a college. Visiting when the college is in session will let you see the campus on a “normal day.”

• Avoid visiting campus during “game days,” especially during football season. Visiting on a big game day can skew your perception of the campus. All of the activity and spirit on campus during those days are not representative of what the college looks like for most of the academic year.

• If visiting during your spring break, check the college’s calendar to see if they are in session. Visiting a campus during their spring break can make the campus feel like a ghost town and leave a negative impression.

• Preview a college by watching a virtual tour.

• Let the admission office know you’re visiting and give yourself 2-3 hours to visit campus.

  • Register for an official tour.

  • Eat at the cafeteria

  • You don’t need to meet with admissions as a Sophomore, but you can if you want to!

• If comfortable, talk to some students.

  • Ask why they chose this college.

  • What do they like or not like?

  • What is the campus like on the weekends?

  • What is the surrounding area like?

• Explore the surrounding area by choosing a fun thing to research and compare.

  • For example, if you love ice cream, find a local store and indulge.

  • Do this with each college visit and compare your notes as a family!

• Keeping an open mind during this process is essential. 

Campus Visit Tips for Parents

• Some colleges will likely resonate with you, but not your child.

• Help your child reflect on the visit by asking open-ended questions about what they saw, heard, and thought while on campus. 

• Listen carefully to your child’s reactions before sharing your impressions. 

• Take your own notes, as your child may forget to write down information. 

• Most importantly, enjoy this time with your teen before they head into the next chapter of their lives. Try to build some downtime and fun activities that have nothing to do with college, and enjoy this exciting journey.

Want more tips? Here is a great article from Bierer College Counseling about making the most of spring break campus visits.

Spring Reminders for Juniors

University of Denver, 2025

Over the winter, you have been working hard to define your College Criteria—the characteristics you are looking for in your future college. We’ve used self-surveys, card sorts, career information, and defining campus visits to help you get a sense of what is most important to you as you begin researching colleges. Now is the time to start visiting campuses on your college list.

• Use the resources in your Walberg College Counseling Digital Binder to help you plan your visits.

• Take notes and pictures. They will help when trying to remember the atmosphere of the school.

• Use opportunities like school days off and in-service days to visit a college. Visiting when the college is in session will let you see the campus on a “normal day.”

• Avoid visiting campus during “game days,” especially during football season. Visiting on a big game day can skew your perception of the campus. All of the activity and spirit on campus during those days are not representative of what the college looks like for most of the academic year.

• If visiting during your spring break, check the college’s calendar to see if they are in session. Visiting a campus during their spring break can make the campus feel like a ghost town and leave a negative impression.

• Preview a college by watching a virtual tour.

• When deciding your itinerary, choose a balance of colleges that fit academically and socially. You can always visit more colleges after receiving acceptances.

• Let the admission office know you’re visiting and give yourself 2-3 hours to visit campus.

  • Register for an official tour.

  • Meet with an admission counselor.

  • Have lunch in the cafeteria - what is the atmosphere like?

  • Meet with a coach, professor, or student representative of a club you are interested in.

• If comfortable, talk to some students.

  • Ask why they chose this college.

  • What do they like or not like?

  • What is the campus like on the weekends?

  • What is the surrounding area like?

• Explore the surrounding area by choosing a fun thing to research and compare.

  • For example, if you love ice cream, find a local store and indulge.

  • Do this with each college visit and compare your notes as a family!

• Keeping an open mind during this process is essential. 

Campus Visit Tips for Parents

• Some colleges will likely resonate with you, but not your child.

• Help your child reflect on the visit by asking open-ended questions about what they saw, heard, and thought while on campus. 

• Listen carefully to your child’s reactions before sharing your impressions. 

• Take your own notes, as your child may forget to write down information. 

• Most importantly, enjoy this time with your teen before they head into the next chapter of their lives. Try to build some downtime and fun activities that have nothing to do with college, and enjoy this exciting journey.

Want more tips? Here is a great article from Bierer College Counseling about making the most of spring break campus visits.

Make Plans to Build Your Activities Resume This Summer

Summer is a great time to relax, but it’s also a great time to explore academic interests and build your resume. Even a part-time job can help you understand what you could be interested in doing for a career.

If you already know what you want to do for a career, consider taking a college class or participating in a research program that will give you a deep academic experience. For example, UW’s Summer Sessions have lots of options (online and in person), and registration begins in April. Other colleges also offer summer courses and programming - to find those options, search for “high school summer programs” on your local college’s website.

Not sure what you want to do for a career or what you want to major in? No problem! Think about the things you already enjoy doing and expand on those activities. Love being a camper at summer camp? Consider becoming a camp counselor. Love apps and games on your phone or tablet and have ideas about improving them? Consider teaching yourself how to code or attend a coding camp like the ones offered through Digipen.

If you already participate in clubs and organizations, there are opportunities to expand your resume. You don’t have to be the club president to build responsibility and experience. Look into leadership positions or ways to take more responsibility for specific events or projects with which the organization is involved. Is there a project the club is considering creating that you can join the planning team for?

Want more ideas?

• Look through this list of summer opportunities I have put together.

• Check out this article from TeenLife about summer activities and search their database for summer programs

• Use the Summer MatchPoint AI Search Tool to find other national-level summer opportunities.

Expand your academics

Is there an elective that you want to take, but you can’t because there’s no room in your schedule next year? Consider taking the class during the summer! Your school district likely offers summer school options - watch for announcements about enrollment and course offerings this spring. No summer school? Reach out to me for some online options.

Honors Colleges

One way to have the advantages of a small college while attending a large university is through an honors program. Many public and some private universities offer honors programs that provide great benefits, including preferential class registration, special honors classes, enhanced advising, and enrichment programs. 

Honors classes attract top professors who enjoy teaching bright, motivated students. In most programs, students are not required to take all honors courses and often take one or two honors classes each semester alongside their other classes. Honors classes are smaller and allow students to pursue a subject in more depth. Some programs require students to complete a senior project to receive an honors designation on their transcript.

Some schools offer separate honors housing. Honors students are generally not required to live in honors housing, but it’s nice to have the option.

The University of Arizona and Arizona State University both offer honors programs. These are such large universities, each with more than 30,000 students, that an honors program is a great way to create a sense of community. Arizona State University’s Barrett Honors College creates a living-learning community featuring classrooms, an advising center, a computer room, and residence halls. Honors advisors help students find opportunities for research, internships, and study abroad. Interested students need to first apply to Arizona State University and then complete the separate and free Barrett application.

Some honors programs provide financial incentives. Penn State University’s Schreyer Honors College offers a renewable scholarship of $5,000 to all first-year honors students and provides grants to students who study abroad. The school offers more than 200 honors courses each year. Like many honors programs, they boast of high placement rates in graduate and professional schools.

While many large public universities have honors programs, some states also offer the option of a separate honors college. For example, St. Mary’s College of Maryland is that state’s honors college. With about 2,000 students, this liberal arts college offers a private school education, with small classes and lots of faculty interaction, at public school prices. 

Private schools can also have honors programs. At Boston’s Northeastern University, students have access to separate honors sections of courses, as well as interdisciplinary honors seminars. They can live with other freshmen honors students and enjoy excursions to the theater and symphony.

These are just a few examples of the many honors programs available at colleges and universities across the country. While a few require a separate application, most schools will invite applicants with top grades and test scores to join their honors programs. Refer to College Raptor for a more extensive honors list.

Financial Matters: Tuition Reciprocity

Picture a student who dreams of studying oceanography but lives in a landlocked state, or a student in California, Texas, or Florida competing for a shrinking number of seats at their state’s public universities. Both want to explore out-of-state options. Both worry about cost. And both are perfect examples of who can benefit from tuition reciprocity programs that make certain public colleges far more affordable.

Reciprocity agreements let students pay reduced tuition at participating universities across regional networks. What many families don’t realize is that every college within a reciprocity program sets its own rules, so eligibility, pricing, and restrictions vary widely even within the same exchange. A student isn’t guaranteed the discount simply because their state participates.

Four major programs cover most of the country: the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE), the New England Tuition Break, the Midwest Student Exchange Program, and the Southern Regional Education Board’s Academic Common Market. While all aim to expand access, each operates differently, and colleges within them may add their own requirements.

The Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) is the largest and most widely known. Students from participating western states can attend public universities in the region for no more than 150 percent of in-state tuition. But colleges get to decide which majors qualify, how many WUE students they accept, and what academic standards students must meet. Many campuses also exclude competitive majors altogether; nursing, psychology, engineering, and computer science are frequent exceptions, so it’s essential to check each college’s WUE list rather than assuming an entire school participates.

New England’s Tuition Break program focuses on major availability. A student typically qualifies only if their chosen major isn’t offered at a public university in their home state, although some colleges extend eligibility based on geographic proximity. The discount amount varies by institution, and majors can shift year to year, so families should double-check the database before applying.

The Midwest Student Exchange Program spans eight states and includes both public and private institutions, but participation is voluntary. Some colleges offer reciprocity only for certain programs or limit the number of seats available. Tuition at public universities is generally capped at 150 percent of in-state rates, while private colleges offer at least a ten percent discount. The actual savings depend heavily on the school.

The Academic Common Market in the South also ties eligibility to specific majors unavailable in a student’s home state. Each state handles certification differently, and some pause participation during budget-tight years. Colleges may limit ACM to certain degree levels, so families need to verify details early in the process.

Across all programs, the process is straightforward: students must verify residency, apply directly to the participating college, and indicate their reciprocity status early since spots may be limited. Families should also confirm that the student’s intended major is approved in the program’s database and remember that housing, travel, and campus fees can still vary widely by location. 

Reciprocity can open the door to out-of-state options that once felt financially impossible, but the details matter. With careful research and early planning, these programs can help students find the right academic fit at a cost that makes sense for families.

Focus on Majors: Psychology

If you’re fascinated by why people think, feel, and behave the way they do, a major in psychology might be the perfect fit. Psychology is the scientific study of the connections between the mind, behavior, and environment. Students explore how mental processes develop, how people make decisions, how relationships form, and how internal and external factors shape behavior over a lifetime.

Because psychology is grounded in scientific research, most programs begin with core classes in statistics, research methods, and experimental psychology. After building a foundation, students can explore the many concentrations the field offers. These include developmental psychology, clinical psychology, cognitive psychology, forensic psychology, health psychology, behavioral neuroscience, and industrial-organizational psychology.

Different colleges offer unique pathways. The University of Michigan is widely known for social psychology research, including studies on how social media influences self-esteem and relationships. UC San Diego offers exceptional options in behavioral neuroscience. John Jay College of Criminal Justice is one of the top choices for forensic psychology and corrections-based assessment. Purdue University and Colorado State University offer strong industrial-organizational psychology tracks, a rapidly growing field used heavily in human resources and workplace consulting. Tufts University is one of the only colleges with an undergraduate interdisciplinary engineering psychology major called Human Factors Psychology, perfect for students interested in the interaction between humans and technology.

Students interested in children and development might explore programs like the University of Minnesota, well known for its research in lifespan development. For students drawn to health-related psychology, George Mason offers a concentration in health psychology. 

Those interested in sport and performance psychology often look at Kent State or the University of South Carolina.

Psychology majors take courses that help them understand behavior across many contexts. Lab-based programs may include work with human or animal subjects, designing experiments, running studies, or analyzing data using advanced software. Other programs blend classroom learning with internships in hospitals, schools, nonprofit agencies, human resources departments, marketing firms, or criminal justice settings.

One of psychology’s biggest strengths is its versatility. Graduates can pursue careers in business, sales, marketing, human resources, education, social services, research, counseling, or organizational consulting. A growing need exists for psychology specialists in HR departments, where understanding motivation, communication, and workplace culture is essential.

For students who want to become therapists, there are multiple pathways after earning a bachelor's degree. Some continue to a doctoral program (PhD or PsyD) to become licensed psychologists. Others pursue a master’s degree in counseling, social work, or marriage and family therapy. With a master’s and supervised clinical hours, students can become licensed as an LMFT (Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist) or a licensed professional counselor, depending on state requirements. These roles focus on helping individuals, couples, and families navigate mental health and relationship challenges.

Whether a student dreams of supporting children, improving organizational culture, studying brain function, helping individuals in crisis, or conducting research, psychology provides a strong foundation. It’s a major that encourages curiosity, critical thinking, empathy, and a deeper understanding of human behavior, qualities that translate into meaningful and impactful careers.

Career Paths for Psychology Majors:

· Business/Entrepreneur

· Clinical Psychologist

· Cognitive Psychologist 

· Criminal Investigator

· Developmental Psychologist

· Educational Psychologist

· Experimental Psychologist

· Forensic Psychologist

· Human Resource Personnel

· Attorney/Lawyer

· Organizational Psychologist

· Marriage & Family Therapist

· Neuropsychologist

· Physician/Psychiatrist

· Psychiatric Technician

· Psychometrist/Clinician

· Rehabilitation Psychologist

· School Counselor

· Social Psychologist

· Sports Psychologist

· Substance Abuse Counselor

Rethinking Failure and Resilience

Somewhere along the way, many students began treating failure as a personal label rather than a temporary setback. The New York Times once observed that failure has shifted from an action I failed to an identity I am a failure. Any parent who has watched their teen meltdown after a disappointing grade or feedback knows exactly how quickly young people make this leap. Yet every major body of research tells us something very different: failure is not the opposite of success. It is an essential, unavoidable, deeply valuable part of it.

Psychologist Carol Dweck’s work on mindset has helped countless students reframe this experience. Her idea of the “not yet” mindset gives students room to grow instead of shutting down. A tough outcome doesn’t mean they aren’t capable; it means they haven’t yet mastered the material. That single word opens the door to possibility. It reminds students that growth takes time, that learning requires struggle, and that setbacks aren’t proof they should quit - rather, they’re signals to keep going.

Research across psychology echoes this idea. Social psychologist Albert Bandura, showed that the process of confronting difficulty builds self-efficacy, the internal belief that one can handle hard things. Martin Seligman’s work on optimism demonstrated that resilient people interpret setbacks as temporary and specific, rather than defining or permanent. Angela Duckworth, who brought the concept of grit into the mainstream, found that perseverance develops from doing difficult things, not from staying comfortable. When young people are shielded from challenges, she warns, they can become “fragile perfects,” confident only when everything goes right.

Life is full of examples of people who transformed failure into something better. Sara Blakely often describes how failing the LSAT twice pushed her toward entrepreneurship and ultimately to founding Spanx. Jim Marshall, the Minnesota Vikings player who famously ran the wrong way and scored for the opposing team on national television. Instead of allowing embarrassment to swallow him, he used his mistake as motivation to concentrate at a higher level, practice harder than anyone else, and build a remarkable career. Their stories show that failure doesn’t define someone. What they do afterward does.

This dynamic shows up often in the college application process. In one case, a senior failed a class after assuming the teacher would accept late work for full credit. When that didn’t happen, the outcome was painful, but the experience pushed him to take ownership of his communication and planning in a way nothing else had. That one setback ultimately prepared him far better for the realities of college than any semester of smooth sailing ever could. The failure didn’t define him; it simply illuminated what needed to change. Colleges increasingly value this kind of resilience. At highly selective colleges, even a single low grade can still hurt a student’s chances. Even with a clear, honest explanation and evidence of growth, the most competitive schools may not be able to overlook it because so many applicants have spotless records. Admissions officers recognize that the transition to college demands resilience, adaptability, and the ability to bounce back from setbacks. They intentionally look for evidence of reflection in applications. A student who can explain how they handled a setback, whether academic, personal, or extracurricular, often stands out due to the vulnerability and realization the student demonstrated.

Colleges understand that challenges are inevitable. They want to admit students who can adapt, seek help when needed, and take responsibility for their growth. Resilience predicts success far more accurately than perfection ever will. Parents play a crucial role in helping teens build this capacity. The instinct to fix things for them is understandable, but confidence grows when students work through problems, not when parents solve them. Teens need reassurance that effort matters more than flawlessness, that their worth isn’t tied to GPA, and that every setback contains a lesson if they’re willing to look for it. Noticing small moments of persistence, kindness, responsibility, and honesty helps them see themselves as capable and grounded, not defined by achievements alone.

Failure, when met with curiosity instead of shame, becomes a turning point. “Not yet” becomes an invitation to try again, adjust, and grow. And that mindset, the belief that improvement is always possible, is one of the greatest gifts we can give our students as they prepare for college and beyond.

Late Fall Reminders for Juniors and Sophomores

Colorado School of Mines, 2025

We’ve been working on potential majors, careers, and what you want to be a part of your college experience. An important part of this is visiting college campuses. Don’t forget to complete your criteria building college visits.

Complete your College Criteria Visits. Here are some Tips for Planning a College Visit. These experiences are great reference points as you figure out what you’re looking for in a school. And some schools offer incentive grants if you visit campus, either in person or virtually.

Consider keeping a journal to collect essay ideas- here are some questions for inspiration. NYT Writing Prompts for Students: Start keeping a journal.

Keep your grades strong! Junior year is the last year of final grades that will be on your transcript when you apply to colleges. So your grades in 10th and 11th grade are really important.

Feeling like you’re falling behind in class? Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and the sooner, the better. Check in with your teacher. Ask older students and/or peers if they might be open to tutoring. Form a study group, or stay after school to work through difficult course content. Uplevel your study skills: This guide has tips to help you study smarter, not harder.

Start thinking about summer. Start investigating competitive summer programs. Some applications open as early as December. Here is a list of summer and year long programs that you can search through. You can also check the Teen Life Summer Programs and the Summer Match Me search engines.

Start thinking about financial fit. Start discussing college costs as a family. Look at Net Price Calculators and tuition on college financial aid websites to get an estimate of how much each school will cost. This article from the College Board about Net Price and Net Price calculators is helpful. Experiment with the Net Price Calculator to get a rough estimate of what you might pay for college, and start the conversation with your parents or guardians.

Review PSAT/PreACT results (if you sat for a test): You can review not only your scores but also the questions you answered correctly and those you missed. Pay special attention to the questions you answered incorrectly and use this information to prepare for the SAT/ACT.. Strong test scores as a junior may qualify you for academic honors as well as for special programs and recruitment opportunities. Here are some free tools to help you understand and prepare for SATs and ACTs.

• Compass Guide to Admissions Testing: If you haven’t already, this is the time to map out a testing plan. Testing spots can be really tough to find in the Puget Sound area. Sign up for 2-3 test dates now - you can always cancel your test registration later on if you decide that you do not want to take the test another time. And remember that 1,000+ U.S. colleges are using test-optional policies.
  

• Best free test-prep resources:

• Official SAT Practice Tests (College Board)

• Khan Academy (SATFree Official SAT Practice Tests | College Board)

• ACT Academy

• How to Improve Your ACT Score by 2 Points in 20 Minutes

December Reminders for Seniors

The finish line for your furious fall is in sight! You have accomplished so much and your application look great. Keep up the great work - you’re almost there! As we are knee-deep in the application process, I thought this quote might resonate with you -

 “Determination is doing what needs to be done even when you don’t feel like doing it.” –  unknown

The last day to have any essays or applications reviewed is Dec. 17th. All application, portfolio, and essay work must be completed and ready for review by this date, even for applications with early January deadlines. Final fall application review meetings will take place the week of Dec. 15th. Late work will not be reviewed after Dec. 17th - no exceptions.

Complete the FAFSA if you plan to! The FAFSA is live now and anyone can complete it. Make sure you are tracking the financial aid filing deadlines for the FAFSA and CSS Profile if you plan to submit these forms. Check with your admission counselor or a financial aid office for assistance.

Interviews! Have you registered for an interview with a college or scholarship committee? Please let me know! We’ll talk about how to present your best self in the interview and go through a mock interview together. If you have registered for an interview with a college, read this: College Interview Tips and Strategies: The Ultimate Guide

Keep Copies of Your Applications! If you have not already done so, download copies of your applications for your records. The copies serve as a back-up of your work and proof that you submitted your documents on time.

Check Applicant Portals and Email Accounts Often! Be on the lookout for an email from your college within 48 hours of submitting with information on how to set up your portal. Check your applicant portals and emails: Portals are the place where colleges keep applicant information and where you can update contact information, monitor application status, upload and track documents, and view the final admission decision. If you miss a request for more information or a document, it could jeopardize your admission chances, so make it a habit to check regularly. If your portal states that supporting documentation is missing, take swift action and reach out to me or your high school counselor for assistance.

Mid-Year Grade Reports
Some of your colleges require mid-year grade reports. The CommonApp can tell you if your college requires one. If you have applied to a school using a different application, react out to your admission counselor to see if they want mid-year grades.

Be sure to keep your grades strong! Each year I hear about students having their admission decisions changed or rescinded due to low senior year grades. Don’t let this happen to you! Colleges admit students based on the assumption that you will continue to perform well in your classes. Be sure to communicate with your school/college counselor about any mid-year reports that will be required. You can see if a mid-year grade report is required by looking at the College Information in your CommonApp account or by asking your admission counselor directly.

Running Start Students
Now that you’ve registered for your winter term classes, you need to email your updated schedule to your admission counselors at the colleges you have applied to. If you still have applications to be submitted, you need to update your senior year classes to reflect your winter term schedule.

Give Thanks! Share gratitude with your teachers, couselor, and any others who wrote letters of recommendation for you. Here is a great blog post from Hallmark about thank you note ideas.