Grade 8 — Discover & Explore

 

Focus on curiosity, exploration and developing a love of learning.

 

Begin to identify your emerging interests, strengths and possible future directions.

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Participate in a variety of activities to broaden your horizons.

 

Suggested actions:

• Create a personal profile: list your hobbies, interests, and what excites you.

• Set a timeline for early career and academic exploration.

• Look into summer or extracurricular programs to try new things.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grade 9 — Build Your Narrative

​Focus on identifying  aligning what you do with what drives you.

 

Begin practicing writing and communication skills that will support you later.

 

Focus areas: Academics · Activity selection · Writing skills

 

Suggested actions:

• Keep your academic records updated: grades, achievements, feedback.

• Launch a new project or club, or deepen involvement in something you enjoy.

• Set summer goals tied to your interests (e.g., volunteering, research, skill-building).

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Grade 10 — Go Beyond the Numbers

 

Focus on refining your goals and aligning your academic and extracurricular efforts.

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Build clarity around your intended path and strengthen your profile for future possibilities.

 

Focus areas: Academic rigor · Intellectual curiosity · Skill-building · Personal growth

 

Suggested actions:

• Choose coursework that challenges you and aligns with long-term aspirations.

• Monitor your GPA and academic trends; identify areas for improvement.

• Engage in meaningful extracurriculars with purpose (not just ‘doing’ but ‘growing’).

• Simulate the college admissions process in minor ways — research, timelines, expectations.

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Grade 11 — Reach Your Full Potential

 

Focus on building the strategy for college readiness and applications.

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Suggested actions:

• Create or refine your student résumé: academics + activities + leadership + impact.

• Research colleges by factors such as location, program strength, campus size & culture.

• Draft your college essay(s) and get feedback to shape them into a compelling story.

• Start a long-list and short-list of colleges that match your aspirations and fit.

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​Grade 12 — Submit Your Stand-Out Application

 

Focus on finalizing your high school experience and step into your future direction.

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Manage the application process with confidence, meeting deadlines and presenting yourself well.Focus areas: Applications · Essays · Financial aid & scholarships · Time management · Stress control

 

Suggested actions:

• Research and check all requirements for each college: forms, essays, references, deadlines.

• Write and polish your essays so they truly reflect your voice and story.

• Select the activities that best showcase your strengths and align with your narrative.

• Complete and submit applications, apply for scholarships/financial aid, and track responses.

• Plan your transition: logistics, mindset, readiness for life after high school.