December 2024 Checklists

As the semester winds down, it’s clear it won’t end quietly.

With finals on the horizon, students and parents should collaborate to monitor grades, develop effective study plans, and foster healthy, supportive study environments. Students should also start planning how to make the most of their winter break while seniors stay focused on meeting application deadlines. This month may bring opportunities to practice new stress management strategies, but rest assured—the holiday break is just around the corner!

At a glance… 

Upcoming ACT deadlines:

• 12/14 test

• 1/3 registration deadline for 2/8 test (no ACT in January)

• 2/8 test

• 2/28 registration deadline for 4/5 test (no ACT in March)

• 4/5 test

Upcoming SAT deadlines:

• 12/7 test

• 2/21 registration deadline for 3/8 test (no SAT in January nor February)

• 3/8 test

Other:

• Step into my office! AMA for ALL subscribers is Thursday, December 5th, from 2:00-3:00 PM EST. Join us here! Ask me anything about your specific applications, winter break strategies, summer programs, etc.

9th graders

If you’re a freshman, then your jobs this month are:

• Prepare for finals. High school finals are typically more challenging than in previous years, so it’s crucial to develop a solid study plan. Use this opportunity to build strong study habits that will benefit you throughout high school and beyond.

• Maintain your grades. You're almost done with your first semester—stay focused and finish strong!

• Reflect on your extracurricular activities. Which ones are worth continuing next semester? Are there any that no longer align with your interests or goals? Consider exploring something new after winter break to broaden your experiences.

• Set five meaningful goals for winter break. Make the most of your time off by learning a new skill, reorganizing your space, volunteering, creating something, reading, or preparing for second-semester success. These small steps can have a big impact on your future.

• Organize your priorities for the next semester. Use this transition period to assess what worked well in the first semester and what you might improve, ensuring you start the next one with clear goals.

• Take care of yourself. Amid the academic and extracurricular focus, don’t forget to rest, recharge, and spend time with family and friends during the break.

Parents of 9th graders

• Monitor grades as finals approach. Help your kid determine how their performance on their finals will impact their overall grades, if necessary.

• Help create a good study environment for finals. They might need help finding the recipe for success for their first high school finals week.

• Create a supportive study environment. Help your student find the ideal setup for productivity during finals week, whether it’s a quiet space, proper lighting, or access to needed resources. Encourage breaks and healthy habits to keep their energy up.

• Track grades as finals approach. Work with your student to understand how their final exams may affect their overall grades, and identify where to focus their efforts to make the biggest impact.

• Encourage a study plan. Assist your student in crafting a realistic study schedule that balances their workload across subjects, ensuring adequate preparation without overwhelming them.

• Celebrate their hard work. Regardless of the outcomes, recognize and celebrate their effort during this challenging time. This encouragement builds confidence and motivates them for future challenges.

10th graders

If you’re a sophomore, then your jobs are: