Timing
Timing Is Everything
Would it surprise you to learn that many of the students who are accepted to their top-choice colleges go through the admissions process with the least amount of stress? Well, it’s true!
Why do some students sail through the process, enjoying senior year, nervous but excited about all that is ahead of them, while others become overwhelmed. Is it a 1600 SAT? Straight A’s on the transcript? Co-captain of the team?
No, It’s this simple: Timing really is everything!
Families who start the process of developing a smart (and sane) educational plan and opening themselves up to the rich and varied educational options available to them have the advantage every time. The best results cannot be obtained by cramming everything into an 18-month whirlwind schedule. (Remember that research project you waited too long to begin?!) Putting off starting the process does not curtail stress—it only increases it, but using your full four years of high school to prepare will allow you time to grow, experience, and learn about yourself as an individual, as a member of your family, and as a citizen of your community.
General Timeline:
Freshman Year
Introduction to college options, examine personal strengths and interests, and plan high school courses and meaningful personal experiences
Sophomore Year
Builds on freshman year work, but includes an introduction to standardized testing, exploration of summer opportunities, develop a standardized testing plan.
Junior Year
Put the pieces together, prepare for and take standardized tests, develop an application timeline, brainstorm essays and personal statement, and research and visit colleges.
Senior Year
Apply for admission, financial aid, and scholarships, and let those colleges see all the hard work you have done!
No matter where you are in the college preparation and search process, I can help you reach your goals. I work individually with you and your family to develop a plan that works best for you. The four-year outline above is a good place to start, but the plan should be as unique as each student.