People often ask when they should begin working with us. The answer is, the earlier the better! While we accept students in 10th, 11th, and occasionally 12th grade, the ideal time to begin is in 8th or 9th grade. By working together throughout the high school years, we can develop in-depth knowledge and build on a student’s strengths and interests. Then, when the time comes to begin the college selection and application process, your student will be ready to embark on this journey fully prepared.

We also help families who are exploring high school placement. There are many options and, while it can be overwhelming, we have a process to help you make an informed decision. First, we will get to know your child by reviewing academic and testing records to better understand the student’s interests and strengths. We will also consider criteria such as size, location, cost, academics, extracurriculars and social fit to make sure it isn’t just a good academic match, but a school where your student will be happy and thrive.

Beginning to work with a student in 8th or 9th grade gives us more time to get to know them and recommend colleges that would truly be the best fit. It also allows us to help the student navigate each year of high school to build the best possible college application. Students who are successful in all aspects of high school – courses, grades, honors and awards, extracurricular activities, leadership, volunteerism, and community involvement – present the strongest college applications. In fact, we feel so strongly about our college planning services for younger students that there is little difference in our fee structure between a 2- and 5-year plan.

When we work with students in 8th, 9th, or 10th grade, we like to meet quarterly or as needed with both the student and parent(s). We send out a monthly calendar and newsletter to keep everyone on track and informed of news, events and deadlines.   During these quarterly meetings, we will:

• Assess and review the student’s academic strengths and weaknesses.
• Provide recommendations for high school course selection in 9th-12th grade.
• Develop a four-year plan to maximize high school opportunities.
• Provide tools to help students better understand their unique strengths and begin to explore their interests.
• Offer opportunities to take practice PSAT, ACT, and SAT tests.
• Help students find and pursue educational enrichment options, tutorial services, summer programs, and gifted and talented programs.
• Provide Ideas and suggestions for involvement in extracurricular, community, faith-based, or volunteer activities.
• Develop strategies for prioritizing activities and pursuing leadership opportunities to build both depth and duration.