High School Students: Start the School Year Off Spectacularly

Summer days are winding down, and the new school year is right around the corner (or already here!). Students and parents need to shift gears from relaxation mode to a productive and successful academic mindset. Start the school year strong and set the tone for the months ahead, helping students stay organized, motivated, and focused on their goals.

At International College Counselors, we’ve coached families for almost 20 years, and we can walk you through the essential steps to ensure a smooth beginning to the school year.

1. Set Clear Goals: Students should define their goals for the upcoming year. Setting clear goals gives students direction and purpose, motivating them to work diligently throughout the year. They should think about what academic achievements they want to reach and which extracurricular activities they are interested in joining. Then, they should follow through on those goals day by day and step by step.

2. Gather Supplies: Before the school year starts, make sure your student has all the necessary supplies. Stock up on notebooks, pens, folders, and any other materials they’ll need for their classes. Having everything ready saves families from last-minute stress and ensures students are prepared for their first day.

3. Organize a Study Space: A cluttered environment can lead to a cluttered mind. Students should take some time to organize their study space. Arrange supplies, books, and materials in a way that is conducive to focused learning. A clean and organized space can help a student concentrate better and boost productivity.

4. Create a Study Schedule: Time management is crucial for a successful school year. Encourage your student to create a study schedule that allocates time for each subject and time for breaks and leisure activities. Setting and adhering to a consistent schedule can help establish a routine that maximizes efficiency.

5. Review and Preview: Students should review their notes and textbooks from the previous year to refresh their memory. Additionally, they should preview the materials for the upcoming year to get a head start. This early exposure can make the initial weeks of school feel less overwhelming.

6. Get Involved: High school is not just about academics; it’s also a time to explore interests and passions. Students should join the clubs, sports teams, and other extracurricular activities that resonate with them. These activities not only enhance social life but also teach valuable skills like teamwork, leadership, and time management.

7. Build Positive Relationships: Forging positive connections with teachers, classmates, and school staff is important. A strong support network can provide assistance when needed and make the school experience more enjoyable. From the first day of class, students should ask questions, seek help when needed, and contribute to classroom discussions.

8. Practice Self-Care: A successful school year requires a healthy mind and body. Help your student prioritize self-care by getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals, and engaging in regular physical activity. Taking care of one’s physical and mental self boosts energy levels and ability to stay focused.

9. Embrace Challenges: Not every moment will be smooth sailing, and that’s okay. Challenges and setbacks are part of the learning process (and life!). Students need to embrace bumps in the road as opportunities to grow, develop resilience, and improve their problem-solving skills.

10. Stay Positive and Flexible: Maintaining a positive attitude can help students be more successful in both their personal and academic lives. If things don’t go as planned, support your student so they don’t get discouraged. Adaptability is key – and students need to be open to adjusting their strategies and approaches as needed.

A successful beginning can set the tone for the entire academic journey. Start the school year right by setting clear goals, staying organized, managing time effectively, and embracing opportunities, a student can ensure a stellar start to the school year. Best wishes for a fantastic school year ahead!

International College Counselors

Need help with college planning and college admissions? No matter where your family is in the college admissions process, International College Counselors can help you with every aspect. Email or call us at 954-414-9986 to discuss how we can support you and your family! Also, make sure to register for our upcoming free webinar about building a college list: https://tinyurl.com/28mcwu66