January 2025 Insights

Grades 9 and 10

You’re at a pivotal point in your high school journey, so focus on the opportunities that will make it meaningful and help you reach your full potential. Stay committed to maintaining strong grades, challenging yourself academically, and engaging deeply in extracurricular activities that excite and inspire you. As summer approaches, plan experiences that will be both enriching and purposeful. If you’re considering applying to competitive summer programs, now is the time to research deadlines, gather application materials, and start crafting strong submissions to maximize your chances.

Grade 11 (Class of 2026)

1. Explore Universities and Majors

Begin thinking about what you want in a university experience and which majors align with your interests and goals. Consider the following:

  • University Factors:
    • Geographic regions or countries you’re interested in
    • Financial support available for your journey
    • Environmental preferences: mountains, beaches, rural, urban, or suburban settings
    • Proximity to airports and ease of travel
    • Class size: large lectures versus smaller, interactive discussions
    • Campus culture: Do you thrive when teachers know you personally or prefer more independence?
  • Exploring Majors:
    • What subjects do you enjoy the most in school?
    • Are there topics you’re passionate about that could translate into a career?
    • Do you see yourself working in fields like health sciences, business, technology, arts, or social sciences?
    • Are you interested in interdisciplinary programs that combine multiple fields of study?
    • Research potential career paths for different majors to understand the opportunities they offer.

Write down your thoughts as they come to you. These notes will help shape your list of universities and programs when it’s time to apply.

2. Register for the SAT or ACT (For US Schools)

Although many colleges remain test-optional, taking the SAT or ACT keeps your options open, particularly for merit scholarships or selective programs. Note that the SAT is now a digital exam.

Why Register Early?

  • Secure a spot at your nearest testing center
  • Plan a realistic study schedule
  • Avoid last-minute stress

3. Connect with Your Teachers

Many universities in the US and scholarships require letters of recommendation from Grade 11 or 12 teachers, especially in core subjects. Build strong relationships with your teachers by:

  • Engaging in class discussions
  • Asking thoughtful questions
  • Seeking feedback to improve your performance
  • Demonstrating resilience and a positive attitude

These actions ensure your teachers have meaningful examples to include in their letters.

4. Plan Grade 12 Courses

Review your academic trajectory to ensure you meet:

  • Your school’s graduation requirements
  • Admission prerequisites for your target universities and majors

5. Visit Universities

The second semester is an ideal time to visit universities. Explore different types of schools to identify what resonates with you:

  • Urban, suburban, or rural campuses
  • Public versus private institutions
  • Small, medium, or large student populations

Tips for Campus Visits:

  • Schedule visits through the college website
  • Note that weekend or holiday visits may not reflect typical campus life

6. Plan Your Summer

Your final summer before Grade 12 is a chance to:

  • Learn a new skill or hobby
  • Work, volunteer, or participate in internships
  • Attend summer programs or take a college course
  • Travel or engage in meaningful personal growth activities

For students working with Kate, summer is also when we’ll focus on:

  • Personal Statements (primary college essay)
  • Supplemental Essays (typically released in August)

Grade 12 (Class of 2025)

1. Check Email & Application Portals Frequently

Ensure all application components are submitted and monitored via student portals. Look for:

  • Missing transcripts or school reports
  • Additional essays or forms (e.g., for scholarships)
  • Updates on admission decisions

Some schools may only notify you of decisions through portals, so consistent checking is key.

2. Keep Track of Admission Decisions & Next Steps

Here’s a breakdown of possible outcomes:

  • Accepted: Congratulations! Review details carefully (e.g., program, start date).
  • Rejected: While disappointing, focus on other opportunities and next steps.
  • Waitlist: Decide if you want to remain on the waitlist, keeping in mind there’s no guarantee of admission.
  • Deferred: For Early Action/Early Decision applicants, a deferral means your application will be reviewed with the regular decision pool. Some deferrals are “soft rejections,” so focus on other options.

3. Get Ready to Accept an Offer

If you haven’t already been admitted to your Early Decision or first-choice school, you’ll be making your final decision soon. If you have already decided on a university to attend, congratulations! Here’s what to keep in mind as you finalize your choice:

  1. Review Your Options:
    • Carefully compare financial aid packages, scholarships, and costs of attendance. Consider the long-term implications of student loans, if applicable.
    • Revisit your personal priorities, such as location, campus size, academic programs, extracurricular opportunities, and overall fit.
  2. Accept Your Offer:
    • Once you’ve decided, accept your offer of admission through the school’s prospective student portal. Most schools give students until May 1st to make their decision, but enrolling earlier can have benefits (e.g., securing housing if it’s not guaranteed for all freshmen).
  3. Decline Other Offers:
    • Politely decline offers from other schools after making your choice. Most schools have a process in their portal for this, but if not, send a brief email to admissions thanking them for their time and consideration.
  4. Complete Enrollment Steps:
    • Follow the next steps outlined in your acceptance materials. This often includes paying an enrollment deposit, submitting housing applications, and completing any required health or academic forms.
  5. Celebrate!
    • This is an exciting milestone in your journey. Take a moment to celebrate your accomplishments and look forward to the adventures ahead.

Pro Tip: If you’re still deciding between a few schools, consider visiting or revisiting campuses, attending admitted student events, or connecting with current students and alumni. These experiences can give you a better sense of what life at each school would be like.