A Bit of Vernal Advice to Keep Grades and Tests Nice
Spring is almost upon us! We may not see it or feel it just yet, but nature is definitely gearing up for it, and so should you. It’s the season of tests, course selections, and big transitions with college in sight for seniors. Along with the big thaw also comes spring sports, travel, college visits, and planning for showcases and recruitment.
Freshmen
In the fall, I shared how it was then still early enough for a plot twist. Now’s the time for that to happen or not in our course selection. As sophomore year will set down the first firm point in a trendline, you want to think ahead about what direction you want to travel. This often requires carefully curating what to bring forward and what to leave behind. It may be time to give up trumpet or baseball if you don’t see it in your future 3 years from now. Freshmen certainly don’t need to have it all figured out by now, but the longer view at this stage can serve incredible value.
Sophomores
Approaching the halfway mark of high school, sophomores should be thinking about leadership opportunities in those activities and extracurriculars they kept around after last year’s curation. Courses are also about to ramp up and potentially even be at college level (e.g. APs). And when it rains in the spring, it pours: start making plans to begin your SAT or ACT prep going into the summer. The kind of student who is thinking about standardized testing this early is likely emotionally ready for the task, but it doesn’t make sense to force the issue. The main reason for the consideration is simply because there is nothing on the SAT or ACT that is exclusive to junior year. If you’ve got Algebra II under your belt and aim to improve and enrich your reading comprehension and writing, then you’re appropriately equipped.
Juniors
Test prep, research papers, and AP exams – oh my! If you were able to check off the SAT or ACT by March, then this spring just got a bit more manageable. If not, fret not. There’s still 6-8 months until early application deadlines. Harness some harmony between your class work, activities, and testing, recognizing small steps each day got you here and the same will propel you forward.
Seniors
You’re so close to closing out a big chapter! Don’t get too antsy. Finish strong. And remember, wherever you end up next, it can be just the right point in your path. This is YOUR story, and it’s just getting started.
Have questions? We’re here to help. Get in touch at andrew@parlanceeducators.com or (202) 656-9141.
