Autumn is here! Enjoy the cool temps, but don't "fall" behind

SEPTEMBER ROUNDUP

NEWS, TIPS, & RESOURCES FROM

BRIGHT FUTURES COLLEGE CONSULTING

Seniors, keep it up! Juniors, let's get started!

While seniors are carrying out their college application plans, it's now time for juniors to begin developing theirs. The college admission landscape has changed drastically in the last 6 months, and different opinions can blur the landscape. It's hard to know what's right for your family.

Let us cut through all the noise to simplify your college planning and application process.

We customize each student's plan and guide you each step of the way.

Working with a Bright Futures College Counselor means that you'll have an expert on your team advising you through the high school years, college application process, and transition into college.

LEARN MORE

CLASS

OF 2021

SENIORS

Parents - we asked your students what they wished you knew about them and their college process at this point. Grab some tissues and read their heartfelt responses here.

Students - we are very proud of the hard work you've invested into this process. After long hours perfecting your essay, late nights formatting your activities list, and finally clicking the “SUBMIT” button, you might be surprised to learn that there are a few tasks yet to complete before your application will actually be complete and ready for review. Click here to make sure your application is complete.

October 1: FAFSA & CSS Profile Open (priority deadlines are as early as Dec 1). Here is a checklist of documents you'll need in order to apply for financial aid.

Oct 15/Nov 1: Early Action/Early Decision Application Deadlines. Don't know the difference between ED and EA? Learn more about which admission plan is right for you here.

We know there are a lot of "moving parts" in this process, especially this year. Your application strategy and timeline is tailored to you, so it's vital that you stay connected with your Bright Futures Counselor and follow through on your tasks.

Know A Senior Who Could Use Some Help?

We offer "hourly services" to ensure applications and essays are error-free and that students are strategizing to increase chances of admission. For pricing and more information, click here or respond directly to this email for more information.

CLASS

OF 2022

JUNIORS

It's time to dig into college research! It takes intentional effort to really learn about the schools on your preliminary college list and determine if they're right for you. Stay open-minded, know your “fit factors”, take notes, and pay attention to application requirements. Georgia Tech wants you to have fun with it too.

Colleges are visiting high schools virtually this year. Ask your guidance counselor how you can register and "attend". Virtual information sessions, campus tours, college fairs, and communicating with admission reps are great ways to research AND demonstrate interest (which increases your chances of admission). Tufts University offers these tips for a great virtual visit.

Testing - let's talk about it. You'll take the PSAT in October (unless impacted by COVID). Along with being a practice SAT, this is the National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (NMSQT ). If you are a strong test taker, it's worth it to prepare (major scholarship opportunities)

As for the SAT and ACT, please allow seniors to register for the limited seats this fall. There will likely be increased opportunities for you to test in the spring, so go ahead and register and prepare for a spring SAT or ACT. Registration deadlines are typically a month prior to test date.

Check the colleges' websites for a list of their virtual events, and/or click here to register for the NACAC Virtual College Fair on Sept. 13, Oct. 12, Oct. 18, or Nov. 8.

CLASS

2023

2024

FESHMEN & SOPHOMORES

The Birkman Assessment is a treasure trove of highly personalized information that can guide you through decisions – especially when choosing classes, activities, a college major and a career path. Students with self-awareness have the edge in the college process. This article discusses ways to incorporate your Birkman results into college planning.

If you haven't yet, start documenting your activities and accomplishments on a google doc resume draft (template here). Note the hours-per-week and weeks-per-year you are involved. If you are working with a Bright Futures counselor, you might track this in Cialfo. Believe me, your future self will thank you – ask a senior!

If you are planning a road trip or travel over the holidays, check out a campus nearby using this interactive map.

*NEW EPISODES*

SELF-ACCEPTED PODCAST

In this two-part series, Dr. Beth Dennard is joined by Jennifer Mohr, Bright Futures Educational Consultant in Training and the mother of two sons with learning differences to discuss tips for parents and students about managing learning differences in high school, so families can set their students up for success and see them walk across the graduation stage.

LISTEN HERE