Whew, freshman year is over—your child is no longer low man on the totem pole. Are you ready to relax? Before you do, ask you self this: Did your child work last year academically and participate meaningfully in organizations? If so, encourage him to keep it up! If not, you’ll need to help him get where he needs to be and fast! Some colleges can be satisfied by a great sophomore through senior year performance, but it is harder to explain away not-so-stellar freshman AND sophomore years. Help your child get involved with purpose and commitment NOW.

Your student may take standardized tests this year – PLAN, PSAT/NMSQT, and/or SAT II. Testing will play a role in your student's college selection. So will you.

If your student deserves it, display confidence that you believe she is developing the life navigating skills that will help her negotiate the ins and outs of college. Have a great year. Watch your student grow, work and enjoy life. Make the most of this great time. And visit makingitcount.com throughout the year for valuable suggestions for helping your sophomore succeed!

Here are some other tips to help you help your student.

In the Fall of 10th GRADE YEAR

• Job shadow or participate in career day, if possible
• Refine/Revise/Update your resume. Keep it simple!
• Continue discussing post high school plans with school counselor and parent/guardians
• Review cost factors for college and investigate options

In the Spring of 10th GRADE YEAR

• Take the most challenging course of study available
• Begin to look for leadership roles in clubs/activities
• Continue development of service activity
• Strengthen relationships with peers, teachers, counselors, activity moderators and employers-they will be writing recommendations for you down the road!
• Testing
  • Check out policies/opportunities at your school
  • Take the PLAN
  • Take the PSAT
• Go to college fairs
• Continue working on study habits and note-taking skills