October is crucial for high school students to solidify their progress and stay on track. By now, students should settle into their routines and feel more comfortable with their classes and extracurriculars. It's also a time to start thinking ahead—while seniors are in the midst of college applications, younger students should focus on maintaining strong academic habits and deepening their involvement in activities. October is about consistency, balancing academics with interests, and making sure goals set at the beginning of the year are being actively pursued.
At a glance…
Upcoming ACT deadlines:
10/26 test
11/8 registration deadline for 12/14 test (no ACT in November)
12/14 test
1/3 registration deadline for 2/8 test (no ACT in January)
Upcoming SAT deadlines:
10/5 test
1018 registration deadline for 11/2 test
11/2 test
11/22 registration deadline for 12/7 test
12/7 test
2/21 registration deadline for 3/8 test (no SAT in January nor February)
Other:
Step into my office! AMA for ALL subscribers is Thursday, October 3rd from 2:00-3:00 PM EST. Join us here!
PSAT/NMSQT: This test isn’t just good practice for the SAT! The date is either Saturday, October 12, 2024, or Saturday, October 26, 2024 - check to see if your school offers this!
We have an upcoming webinar! Attention Juniors and Seniors: Do you know how to demonstrate interest? Register now and we will see you Tuesday, October 8th at 3:00 PM EST.
9th graders
If you’re a freshman, then your jobs this month are:
Introduce yourself to your guidance counselor. Even if you don’t have a lot of questions right now, it’s helpful to get familiar with them. Make a point to visit their office and learn about the resources they can offer.
Evaluate your extracurricular activities. Is there anything you’ve joined that doesn’t feel like the right fit? Maybe it’s time to switch things up. Also, consider whether you’ve taken on too much and need to lighten your load.
Focus on your academics. You’re likely finding your rhythm by now, so keep up the good work! Stick to solid study habits and aim to maintain strong grades.
Find an organizational system that suits you. There are many ways to stay organized, each catering to different needs. Test out tools like digital apps or paper planners to find what works best for you—and practice using it regularly to stay on top of your responsibilities.
Parents of 9th graders:
Promote effective study habits. Successful study habits rely on routine, consistency, and a conducive environment. If your child finds it challenging to establish these on their own, think about how you can help create the right structure and support.
Stay engaged with their course load. Keep an eye on their grades and check in on how they’re adjusting to their classes. If something seems off—whether it’s too challenging, too easy, or not necessary—ask questions and consider if adjustments might be needed.
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