FALL PLANNING
We are back into the swing of learning, fall sports, performing arts, extracurricular activities, and even a little work.
As parents of 11th-grade high school students, it is time to launch the all-important college planning journey. It begins with early fall activities and kicks into high gear in January of the new year.
Here are a few activities to focus on in the Fall of the 11th grade
PSATs— The PSAT exam, scheduled for mid-October, is a crucial benchmark. It serves as the unofficial starting point for students and families, with exam results used to determine eligibility for the National Merit Scholarship Program’s prestigious academic scholarships. This exam helps determine if additional academic help can boost a student’s GPA and prepare for the Spring SATs.
Define My Pathway—As students and parents look beyond high school, it is critical to start discussing one’s college-to-career path. Whether attending a traditional, four-year public or private college, starting at community college to transfer, serving our country, entering an apprenticeship program, or pausing the button to work, it is not a one-size-fits-all decision. The variety of pathways should reassure you that there is no wrong choice, only the right one for your child.
Funding Assessment: How will we pay? What are our resources? Purchasing an education after high school is a significant financial commitment. Parents should assess their family’s financial capacities early to craft a college funding strategy. This process can be time-consuming and knowledge-intensive, and may necessitate obtaining external help.
Grades, Writing, and Mental Health— As parents, we want the best for our students, as do colleges, but not at the expense of their well-being. It is essential to utilize the value of time to manage the college planning process at the student’s pace. Let us remember to let students be students.
Too Far; Not Too Close— Distance is measured in feet or miles. Planes, trains, and automobiles are the means of transportation for college. When talking about the burbs of a big city or the trees in the country, students need to use the fall to get their personal GPS bearings.
Meet the Representatives—Before we visit a campus or take a tour, students create a list of schools that meet their goals and college preferences—a list of possibilities to research and uncover to find the right fit. We use technology and apps and attend local and regional college fairs. Many students and families can meet admission counselors during these events in the fall. Attend one in your area.
January 2025—Mark your calendar. As the holidays end, college planning begins. The journey will be exciting and emotional, with the occasional uncertainty and questions. Remember, it requires time, patience, knowledge, curious minds, and a plan.
As you dig into your students plans for life after high school, feel free to contact us at Get College Going. We love questions and inquiries. We’ll share insights, advice and where to find resources to help. Everything begins with a conversation – schedule a call today