College Visits and Testing: Why 11th Grade is the Most Important Year

 

The Panic is Real

I get it. Every September and October, my inbox starts to fill with nervous messages from parents of juniors. And honestly? You’re not wrong to be stressed. Junior year isn’t just another lap in the high school race. It’s the lap where strategy matters most.

If freshman year is about starting off strong and sophomore year is about finding rhythm, junior year is where the stakes climb sky-high. College admissions officers are going to scrutinize your teen’s transcript, their extracurricular choices, and yeswhether they’ve even stepped foot on a college campus or sat through a Saturday morning standardized test.

But here’s the good news: there is a system. And if you follow it, you’ll...

Continue Reading...

Here's How Parents Can Support Teens In The College Essay Writing Process

The summer before senior year is an emotional whirlwind. You’re proud of how far your child has come—and you’re also staring down the looming college application process. And right at the heart of it? That infamous college essay.

Here’s the good news: starting now, at the beginning of summer, can dramatically reduce stress for both you and your teen. Even better news? You don’t need to be an essay expert to help.

Let’s talk about how parents like you can step in—with intention, empathy, and a clear plan—to support your teen in creating a compelling personal statement.


🌱 June Is for Brainstorming: Here’s How to Get Started

The first draft doesn’t need to happen right away. The key to a great colleg...

Continue Reading...

Unlocking Success: Why HS Juniors Should Start TODAY to Prep for Summer Programs

As the holiday season wraps up and we bid farewell to the seniors of 2024 who have made their early decisions or early action applications, it's time for the junior class of 2025 to step into the spotlight. 

Today, I want to share with you why thinking about and planning for your high school junior's summer activities is crucial for their college applications.

Why Summer Matters

I understand that summer seems distant, almost six months away, but how your high school junior spends this time can significantly impact their college application. The pressure isn't on to enroll in an academic program or secure a high-profile internship. A traditional job or a refreshing, rejuvenating experience can be j...

Continue Reading...
Close