Resources
Free Resources for Students and Parents
We believe that access to reliable guidance should not come at a cost. That’s why we provide a wide range of free resources designed to support both students and parents on their journey to college. From checklists, timelines, and planning tools to webinars, study tips, scholarship alerts, and college application guidance, families can stay informed and prepared every step of the way. Our goal is to remove barriers, making quality information and support accessible to all—so every student has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of background or financial circumstances.
To Do List by Class Year
Middle school is the perfect time to establish strong habits that set the stage for future success. Students focus on academic discipline, curiosity, and personal growth while beginning to explore potential interests. At this stage, the goal is not pressure—but building a love of learning, self-confidence, and curiosity.
9th and 10th grade lay the academic foundation colleges will see first. Students should challenge themselves with rigorous coursework, develop study habits, and explore leadership opportunities. This is also the time to start connecting extracurriculars to long-term passions.
Junior year is the most important academic year for college admissions. Grades matter, test scores peak, and colleges expect students to demonstrate leadership and initiative. This is also when students should begin researching colleges seriously, creating their first application drafts, and applying for selective summer programs.
Senior year is about execution—finalizing applications, writing strong essays, securing financial aid, and preparing for the transition to college life. With structured support, seniors can reduce stress, stay organized, and make confident decisions about their future.
College Search
Finding the right college is one of the most important steps in the journey to higher education. A thoughtful search goes beyond rankings—it helps students discover schools that align with their academic interests, career goals, and personal values. By exploring factors such as location, size, majors offered, campus culture, and financial aid opportunities, students can build a balanced list of reach, match, and safety schools. A strong college search not only opens doors to the right academic fit but also gives students confidence and direction as they prepare for the application process.
College Applications
The college application process is where all your hard work comes together. From completing the Common App or other application platforms to writing essays, requesting recommendation letters, and submitting transcripts, every detail matters. A strong application doesn’t just share grades and test scores—it tells your story, highlighting your passions, strengths, and growth. Students should start early, stay organized with a checklist, and track important deadlines for each school. Key steps include writing and revising a compelling personal statement, tailoring supplemental essays, and preparing a professional résumé. With support from counselors, teachers, and resources like Common App, Coalition for College, and Naviance, students can confidently present their achievements and stand out in the admissions process.
QuestBridge is a nationally recognized program that connects high-achieving students from low-income backgrounds with some of the nation’s most selective colleges and universities. Through the National College Match, students have the opportunity to earn full four-year scholarships that cover tuition, housing, and more—removing financial barriers to higher education. Beyond financial support, QuestBridge provides students with a powerful community of peers, mentors, and alumni who share their drive and resilience. Participation in QuestBridge not only strengthens college applications but also opens doors to transformative academic, career, and leadership opportunities. For motivated students seeking both access and support, QuestBridge can be a life-changing pathway to college success.
Career Search
High school students can effectively explore careers and college majors through a process of self-reflection, research using online tools, and gaining real-world experience. The goal is to align personal interests and strengths with academic and career paths, while remaining flexible to change.
The career search process is a journey of self-discovery and information gathering, helping you find a fulfilling path that aligns with your skills and passions. Begin with self-assessment to understand your interests and strengths, then utilize tools like BigFuture, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook and the O*NET Interest Profiler to research potential careers. Gaining real-world experience through informational interviews, volunteering, or part-time jobs will provide practical insights, all of which should be discussed with a school counselor to create a flexible plan for your future education and employment.
