The start of high school may seem like just another school year and college seems like a long time off. However, the beginning of 9th grade is the perfect time to start thinking about college because the slate is clean and all options are on the table. If a graduation plan was developed at the end of 8th grade, this is the perfect time to put it into action. If that plan isn't something that was developed as part of the school curriculum, this is the time to make one. Look at what classes are required for graduation and decide which courses the student wants to take at the honors or AP level (if available). This is also a good time to become familiar with your high school's GPA calculation process. If your school doesn't regularly provide GPA either at the semester or six weeks, it may be helpful to track that on your own so you always know where you stand. If your student has ideas about what they think they want to study in college (yes it will change in the next 4 years) then start building a list of potential colleges. If they have no idea (this is absolutely ok) then just start having conversations about what they may want to do after high school. This may not be college as there are many other options. It may seem way too early to start these conversations, but just like it is never too late to start something new - it is also never too early to start building a plan.
Comments