Counseling at SLA Beeber

Preparing for college is an exciting journey—and we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you’re exploring your options, choosing dual enrollment classes, preparing for standardized tests, or finalizing applications, this section is designed to provide the tools, resources, and support you need.

Here, you’ll find information on:

✔️College search and exploration tools

✔️Application timelines and deadlines

✔️Financial aid and scholarship opportunities

✔️Tips for writing strong essays and resumes

✔️Campus visit planning and interview preparation

No matter where you are in the process—just beginning to think about college or ready to submit your applications—our goal is to make sure you have clear, reliable information and personalized guidance.

Your future is full of possibilities. Let’s take the next step together.

College Preparation by Grade

9th Grade

Goal: Build strong academic and personal foundations.

✅Academic

Focus on earning good grades — 9th-grade GPA matters.
Develop strong study habits and time management skills.
Take challenging classes.
Meet with your school counselor to map out a 4-year academic plan.

✅ Extracurriculars

Join clubs, sports, music, or community service — quality over quantity.
Explore interests and passions that can develop into leadership roles.

✅ College & Career Awareness

Start thinking about what careers interest you.
Begin a college and career portfolio (or resume): track activities, awards, and interests.

10th Grade

Goal: Explore options and begin building a competitive profile.

✅Academic

Continue taking rigorous courses.
Improve your GPA if needed; it’s not too late.
Prepare for the PSAT (offered in fall); it’s a practice run for the SAT.

✅Extracurriculars

Take on more responsibility in clubs/sports (e.g., secretary, captain).
Volunteer regularly to show commitment.

✅College & Career Awareness

Take career assessments (on Xello).
Research colleges: create a list of schools with programs that interest you.
Attend local college fairs and info sessions.

✅Summer Planning

Look into summer enrichment programs, internships, or volunteer work.

11th Grade

Goal: Position yourself for college admissions.

✅Academic

This is the most important year for GPA — colleges look closely at junior-year grades.
Continue rigorous coursework, especially in core subjects.

✅Standardized Testing

Take the PSAT/NMSQT in October — it could qualify you for National Merit
Scholarships.
Take the SAT or ACT in the spring (and prep in advance).
Consider taking AP exams if you're in AP classes.

✅College Research

Refine your college list: include reach, match, and safety schools.
Begin researching application deadlines, requirements, and financial aid.

✅College Visits

Visit college campuses in person or virtually.
Start talking seriously with your school counselor.
Extracurriculars & Leadership
Deepen your involvement in key activities.
Apply for leadership roles or launch a project/initiative.

✅Summer Planning

Consider a college prep program, internship, or job.
Start brainstorming your college essay (especially for Common App schools).

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