College preparation made easy

Amanda Baucher '25

Social Media Coordinator

College? Already? No matter how early you may think it is, there are always small ways to prepare for your college application process. Starting the process as early as freshman year is encouraged even if it’s just small strides. By the time senior year rolls around, so much of your work will be completed so you can focus mainly on your essays. But don't just take it from me; here is some advice from our counselors.

Freshmen:

College might seem far off, so focus on getting involved in activities you can include in your application down the road and to keep track of those hours. I spoke to freshman and sophomore counselor Ms. Sweet on why students should start preparing so early in their high school career.

“Get involved in clubs, academic focuses, athletics, and visual performing arts,” offered Ms. Sweet. It may seem daunting, but don’t stress out too much about college, simply find a lane that works best for you.

Sophomores:

Now that you are sophomores, you’re given a little bit more freedom in terms of scheduling. Most likely, you’ve gotten involved with on campus activities. Now it’s time to broaden your horizons. Freshman and sophomore counselor Mrs. Holmes spoke to me about how sophomore year should be a time of discovery.

“Start looking for your passion, and put time into that passion outside of the classroom… Students don’t need to have it all figured out right now, but they should just remember that we are here to guide them,” said Mrs. Holmes.

She also warns students against falling into a dangerous sophomore slump after the summer break:
“Try and stay motivated and pick classes and topics that [you] enjoy.”

Juniors:

The dreaded junior year doesn’t have to be as scary as it is made out. However, this is the year where students really need to start focusing on their plans after high school. Junior and senior counselor Ms. Castro implores you all to start early.

“It’s never too early to start thinking about your future… Think about what kind of school you want to apply to and the factors that will go into that,” says Ms. Castro.

Juniors should have one college essay completed by the end of the year, through their English class, and while it may seem like a race with your peers, Ms. Castro also wants to remind students that everyone’s college application process is different.

Ms. Castro’s college advice bulletin

Seniors:

You made it! Don’t forget, you’re still in high school! While it may seem difficult to keep going even when college applications are being submitted, it’s still very important to stay focused. Mrs. Han, junior and senior counselor, emphasized that seniors should remember how important senior year is.

“I think staying organized is really important, so not missing deadlines… and checking your email is really important… Remember your admission is conditional, it is not final till you step on a college campus!” advises Mrs. Han.

Still, the most important thing Mrs. Han recommends is for seniors to give themselves grace and keep an open mind!