Goodbye Summer! Hello High School. 14 Tips for High School Students to Start the School Year Right.

As summer comes to an end, it’s time to transition from relaxation mode to a productive and successful academic mindset. Whether you’re starting your high school journey or nearing the finish line, every year counts. Setting the right tone now can ease the way for a stellar year ahead.

At International College Counselors, we’ve been coaching families for over 20 years, and we’re here to guide you through the essential steps to ensure a smooth and successful start to the school year with these tips for high school students.

1. Set Clear Goals

Define goals for the upcoming year. Whether it’s academic achievements, leadership roles in extracurricular activities, or personal growth, setting clear goals gives students direction and purpose. Break down goals into actionable steps and make a commitment to follow through daily.

2. Evaluate Your Courses

Before the school year begins, ask your student to evaluate their course load. They want to be sufficiently challenged, but not overwhelmed. Now is the time to assess courses and ensure students are on the right track.

3. Organize a Study Space

A well-organized study space is crucial for productivity. Guide your student to take some time to declutter and arrange their supplies in a way that fosters focused learning. A clean environment leads to a clear mind, which in turn boosts the ability to concentrate.

4. Get Involved in Clubs, Activities, Sports, etc.

High school isn’t just about academics; it’s also a time to explore interests and passions. Encourage your student to join a new club, sport, or activity that they find interesting. Meeting new people and getting involved from the start can lead to leadership opportunities and personal growth. If they didn’t enjoy last year’s activities, they can try something new!

5. Commit to Working Hard

Hard work is non-negotiable. Grades play a significant role in college admissions, so students must make a commitment to work diligently on their assignments and seek help if needed before falling behind. Consistency is key.

6. Begin Researching Colleges Early

Start exploring potential colleges by visiting websites, attending virtual tours, visiting campuses, and gathering information about programs of interest. (The summer before senior year is not the time to start this; it takes a lot more time than you might think.) Understanding admissions requirements and deadlines now can help families stay ahead and reduce stress later in the year or in years to come. Consider working with an expert college advisor at International College Counselors to gain personalized guidance, expert insights, and strategic support tailored to your family’s goals, ensuring your student makes informed decisions and maximizes their chances of getting into their school of choice.

7. Stay Organized

With multiple classes, extracurricular activities, and personal responsibilities, life can get hectic. One of the best ways to stay stress-free is by keeping everything organized. Students can use a calendar or planner to manage time effectively. Encourage your student to develop a system that works for them, such as a binder or digital organization tool.

8. Develop a Unique Skill or Mindset

Students should make it their mission to excel at something unique. Whether it’s mastering a new hobby, such as origami, chess, or pogo sticking, or delving into a specific academic interest, dedicating time each week to a skill can make them stand out. Seek out internships or mentors in your field of interest to deepen expertise.

9. Explore and Apply to Scholarships

Don’t wait until senior year to start thinking about scholarships. There are opportunities available for students in all grades. Begin researching scholarships now, apply to them, and mark deadlines on your calendar. Securing scholarships can alleviate the financial burden of college. If you’re already an ICC client, read and explore the monthly list of scholarship opportunities we send to our clients.

10. Build a Great Vocabulary

A strong vocabulary and reading comprehension are essential for standardized tests like the PSAT, ACT, and SAT. Build vocabulary by reading regularly and learning new words. It’s easier to build vocabulary over time than to cram later.

11. Be Smart with Social Media

In today’s digital age, what gets posted online matters. Avoid sharing anything that could be considered embarrassing or inappropriate. Remember, some college admissions officers do check social media profiles, and one ill-advised post can jeopardize a student’s future.

12. Make Smart Decisions

Safety should always be a priority. Don’t engage in risky behaviors like texting while driving or underage drinking. One mistake can have lifelong consequences, so remind your student to think carefully about choices.

13. Stay Positive and Flexible

Not every moment will be smooth, and that’s okay. Challenges are opportunities for growth. When your student encounters obstacles, encourage them to approach the challenge with resilience and a problem-solving mindset. Maintaining a positive attitude is crucial. Staying flexible and being open to adjusting their strategies will help them better navigate the ups and downs of the school year.

14. Practice Self-Care

The last of our blog tips for high school students: A successful school year requires a healthy mind and body. Students should prioritize self-care by getting enough sleep, eating well, and staying active. Mental and physical wellness will help them stay focused and energized throughout the year. 

And remind them to relax. High school is demanding, and it’s important to unwind and avoid burnout. Whether it’s through yoga, exercise, movies, or listening to music, students should find what helps them decompress and make it a regular part of their routine.

*ੈ✩‧₊˚༺ Enjoy these tips for high school students and best wishes for a fantastic school year ༻*ੈ✩‧₊˚

International College Counselors

Stress less and start the school year right with college planning and college admissions. International College Counselors can help you!! No matter where your family is in the college admissions process, email or call us at 954-414-9986 to discuss how we can support you and your family!