Let’s look at two possible scenarios when applying to top colleges!
Scenario 1:
It’s the first day of senior year. Your child is already burnt out. They have to:
- Write their application essays
- Figure out how to make their extracurriculars seem impressive
- Decide who to ask for recommendations
- Stay on top of a challenging course load
Scenario 2:
It’s the first day of senior year. Your child strides confidently onto campus. They have already:
- Finalized a list of dream colleges
- Wrapped up a passion project
- Landed several leadership roles for their targeted Activities List
- Written their personal essay
- Outlined supplemental essays
- Requested recommendation letters
- Scored their most impressive achievement(s)
The bulk of the work is behind them. All they have to do is put the finishing touches on their applications. They can focus on learning and enjoying senior year.
Which scenario do you want for your child?
Easy question? Scenario 2.
With the right preparation, your child can glide into senior year burnout-free and earn that acceptance at a top university — but only if they start now.
What Should Your Child Be Doing Right Now?
Let’s Break It Down by Grade — Because the Right Moves Look Different in 9th, 10th, and 11th Grade
9th Graders - Freshman
Here are 5 things your child can do in their freshman year to get on track for a smooth and successful college application season:
- Plan out your course selection. Consider how to meet core requirements AND maximize the number of advanced courses you’ll take. Top universities want to see that you chose the most challenging courses your school offers — and did well in them.
- Try different extracurriculars to see which ones you like best. It’s ok if some of them don’t stick. This year is for exploration.
- Think ahead about your plans for next summer. Many top summer programs have January or February deadlines, and they sneak up fast. Which summer activities will help you explore your interests and show intellectual curiosity?
- Start a running list of accomplishments, awards, and activities. You’ll thank yourself in the future!
- Start thinking about where you’d like to go to college. This list may change over time, but you can start dreaming now!
10th Graders - Sophomores
Here are 5 things your child can do in their sophomore year to get on track for a smooth and successful college application season:
- Take the PSAT. Assess areas for improvement for the SAT or ACT.
- Start studying for the SAT/ACT. We recommend studying for at least 3 months before taking the test.
- Start to narrow your extracurricular focus. Look for activities that show leadership, impact, and initiative. If considering a capstone project, brainstorm topic ideas.
- Plan your summer. Remember, many top summer programs have application deadlines in January or February.
- Research your goal universities. Learn more about the types of students these institutions admit. Look at average SAT scores and other useful metrics (GPA, number of APs taken).
11th Graders - Juniors
Junior year is the most crucial year for college admissions. Here are 5 things your child can do this year to get on track for a smooth and successful college application:
- Take the SAT or ACT. Leave time to be able to take it again.
- Research and create a list of safety, target & reach schools based on your candidacy and criteria.
- Finalize your extracurriculars. By now, you should have several activities lined up that demonstrate leadership. You still have time to pull off an effective capstone project if you start right now!
- Decide which teachers you’ll ask for a recommendation from. Near the end of the school year, formally request the letter and provide a brag sheet or resume to help them write it.
- Write, revise, and finalize your personal statement the summer after junior year.
How It Works
How we turn great students into world class applicants:
1. Personal Consultation
We meet with you to discuss goals, timeline, and target schools.
2. Team Match
Your child is paired with former admissions officers and mentors from top universities.
3. Step-By-Step Execution
We guide essays, extracurriculars, testing, and everything else that matters.
