EARLY, LATE, OR JUST RIGHT!

When to Start the College Admissions Journey

Your neighbor started meeting with a college admissions counselor in 9th grade. Is that normal? Is it necessary? There is no one-size-fits-all college process nor is there a perfect time to start.

What’s right for you? It’s the time that aligns best with your readiness, growth and academic personality.

Common Myths about Starting Early:

Myth: Starting early guarantees success!
Reality: Success is about preparation and exploration, but there is no set timeframe. You can go through the same process in a shorter amount of time with a similar result.

Myth: If you haven’t picked a future major by 10th grade you’re behind!
Reality: High school is a time to grow and explore. Changing your mind over time shows curiosity and intelligence. The more you learn about yourself the more you can align your path of study.

Myth: You need to have many activities to be a viable candidate at top schools.
Reality: Schools value depth over amount. Find activities that interest you and get involved. A deep commitment in one activity looks better than shallow commitment in many.

Benefits of a Later Start:

A high school student goes through exponential growth between 9th and 12th grades. You likely will get different perspectives on their future from a barely 14 year old to an 18 year old. Students mature at different times, are exposed to courses and activities over time, and experience life changes.

With a later start you will see:

• Increased self-awareness
• Improved decision-making
• More focused effort

What is the REAL GOAL?

Why are you looking for college admissions counseling? Do you need structure to help guide the high school academic course selection process for a specific career? Do you know that it might take you a little longer to  navigate the process? Are you looking for help making the “right fit” college list? Focus on the WHY rather than the WHEN.
Whether you are working toward your goals in 9th grade or beginning to explore in 11th, the key is to do what is right for you and your family, without extra pressure.