Your College Timeline

Each stage of high school brings new opportunities — and new questions. This timeline helps families stay ahead without feeling rushed. 

A clear, year-by-year plan gives families direction and reduces stress. My programs help students stay on track academically and financially while building the skills and confidence needed for college and beyond. 

The college process runs more smoothly when families plan for both admissions and finances together.

Through my College Admissions Counseling Program, I guide students step by step so they stay confident, organized and ready for success.

Starting early with Academic Coaching builds study skills, time management and academic direction. It helps students excel in high school, develop authentic interests and build a record of achievement they’ll later present to colleges with confidence.

 Here’s how I help families plan each step, from early awareness through senior year.

We start preparing for high school success by building habits and awareness early. Coaching helps students strengthen study skills, time management and independence, making the transition smoother and less stressful.

 Begin setting small academic and personal goals to practice accountability and self-motivation. 

Admissions Focus

• Build consistent study routines and reading/writing habits
   
• Visit local colleges or attend online info sessions
   
• Explore interests and early extracurricular ideas
   
• Review upcoming high school course options
   
• Use summer for enrichment, volunteering or new hobbies
   

Financial Focus

• Start open, low-pressure conversations about future college goals and costs
   
• Introduce basic financial terms like scholarships and aid
   
• Begin small savings contributions or a 529 plan
   
• Track achievements for future scholarship applications
  

Freshman year is about exploration and adjustment. I help students find academic strengths, build organization systems and explore interests that grow into authentic activities.

Admissions Focus

• Create a strong academic plan with appropriate course rigor
   
• Develop reliable study habits and organization
   
• Get involved in meaningful extracurriculars and community service
   
• Begin light career and college exploration
   
• Choose enriching summer opportunities

• Practice communicating with teachers and counselors to build self-advocacy early.
   

Financial Focus

• Continue conversations about affordability and expectations
   
• Learn basics of financial aid and scholarship types
   
• Maintain a savings routine and achievement record

Sophomore year is about deepening commitment and preparing for future milestones like testing.

Admissions Focus

• Take the PSAT as low-stakes practice

• Review upcoming SAT/ACT timelines to plan future testing with less pressure.

• Deepen extracurricular involvement and start leadership roles
   
• Explore majors or careers through assessments and interviews
   
• Plan coursework strategically (AP, Honors, Dual Enrollment)
   
• Start a résumé or portfolio
   

Financial Focus

• Use Net Price Calculators to compare real costs
   
• Discuss family budget and expectations
   
• Identify early scholarships
   
• Track accomplishments for future applications

Junior year is pivotal. I help students advance academically, plan for testing and prepare materials early to reduce stress.

Admissions Focus

• Build a testing calendar for SAT/ACT
   
• Research and visit colleges (in person or virtual)
   
• Create a balanced college list: reach, match and safety schools
   
• Secure strong teacher recommendations

• Begin identifying essay themes and personal experiences that reflect character and growth.

• Draft essays and personal statement over summer
   
• Continue meaningful leadership roles
   

Financial Focus

• Build a preliminary college list considering affordability and fit
   
• Learn about FAFSA and CSS Profile
   
• Gather financial documents early
   
• Create a financial aid calendar
   
• Start applying to scholarships gradually

Senior year is about execution and decision-making. I help students stay organized, meet deadlines and prepare for the college transition.

Fall: Application & Filing Season

Admissions Focus

• Finalize college list and strategy (ED, EA, Regular)
   
• Polish essays and submit all applications on time
   
• Track transcripts, recommendations and portals
   

Financial Focus

• Create FSA IDs and file FAFSA/CSS Profile accurately
   
• Apply for scholarships with support
   
• Double-check submissions and deadlines
   

Winter/Spring: Review & Decision

Admissions Focus

• Stay engaged with colleges through portals and communication
   
• Compare acceptances and choose the best fit
   
• Begin preparing for college life — budgeting, independence and time management for a confident start on campus.
   

Financial Focus

• Monitor for verification requests
   
• Compare aid packages side by side, including 4-year cost
   
• Request appeals if needed
   
• Finalize payment strategy and confirm enrollment by May 1

 💡 By following this dual timeline, families reduce last-minute stress and gain both academic and financial clarity.

My College Admissions Counseling Program makes the process less overwhelming and more empowering — helping students find the right college while keeping it financially sustainable.

 With structure and encouragement, students stay on track — and parents feel reassured knowing every step is planned and supported.