3 answers
sophia
Student
Lowell, Massachusetts
3
Questions
Updated
854 views
School Struggles: Big Goals?
Hello, I'm a 14-year-old high school student facing some challenges with attendance and grades. I've had a history of truancy and a few suspensions, and I'm currently struggling in some classes. Despite this, I'm determined to aim for admission to either Choate Rosemary Hall or Phillips Exeter Academy. I'm aware my current situation may seem like a stretch, but I'm committed to improving during my freshman and sophomore years with the goal of applying during my junior year. I'd appreciate any advice or insights from those familiar with these schools or experienced in admissions.
3 answers
Martina Hayes
Project Manager
31
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Martina’s Answer
Hello Sophia, keep up the great work and maintain your focus. It's beneficial to keep company with fellow students who share your ambitions. Regularly communicate with your guidance counselor for advice and guidance. Additionally, find a mentor who can provide you with the support and encouragement you need to stay aligned with your objectives. You're already on the right path by contemplating your future and taking steps towards your goals. Remember, your dreams are within reach!
Sarah Webb
Interior designer
15
Answers
Bakersfield, California
Updated
Sarah’s Answer
Don't allow your past mistakes to become a barrier in the pursuit of your dreams. The best you can do is to learn from those missteps and keep moving forward. Even though grades are a significant factor for college acceptance, remember, you're only fourteen. I'd recommend enrolling in any available summer school classes that could help boost your performance in subjects you're struggling with. It's crucial to address issues of truancy and attendance, as the only person you're disadvantaging by not going to school is you. Believe it when people say that the choices you make now can shape your future - it's the truth.
I had aspirations of becoming a surgical technologist, but I made some poor decisions involving drugs during my high school years. Unfortunately, those mistakes have prevented me from pursuing a career in surgical technology.
I had aspirations of becoming a surgical technologist, but I made some poor decisions involving drugs during my high school years. Unfortunately, those mistakes have prevented me from pursuing a career in surgical technology.
Brandon Olson
Tax Manager
52
Answers
Charlotte, North Carolina
Updated
Brandon’s Answer
It's really great to see you setting your sights high and working towards bettering your academic performance and attendance record. This will certainly help you stand out when applying to esteemed schools like Choate Rosemary Hall or Phillips Exeter Academy. Here's a friendly guide to help you along your path:
Tackle Attendance Issues: Being present in class is key. If there are any reasons causing you to miss school, whether they're personal, social, or health-related, it's crucial to tackle these. A chat with a school counselor, teacher, or a trusted adult could offer you the support or resources you need.
Boost Your Academic Performance: Your main goal should be to improve your grades. Here's how you can do it:
- Develop strong study habits.
- Seek assistance in subjects you find tough, maybe through tutoring or study groups.
- Manage your time well and prioritize your tasks.
Get Involved in School Activities: Taking part in extracurricular activities can add value to your application. Schools like Choate and Exeter appreciate students who are well-rounded. Join clubs, sports, arts, or volunteer work that you enjoy.
Connect with Current Students or Alumni: If you can, try to get in touch with students or alumni from these schools. They can give you a better understanding of the application process and what the schools expect.
Work on Personal Growth: Think about why you've had past suspensions and truancy. Learning from these experiences can greatly contribute to your personal development and can be a strong point in your application essays, showing your evolution.
Prepare for Standardized Tests: If the schools require it, start getting ready for any standardized tests (like the SSAT or ISEE for boarding schools) well ahead of time.
Create a Strong Application: When it's time to apply, make sure your application essays and interviews tell your personal story, highlight your academic and extracurricular achievements, and most importantly, showcase your growth and determination.
Letters of Recommendation: Build positive relationships with teachers and mentors who can speak highly of your character and academic progress in their letters.
Stay Positive and Resilient: The road to improvement can be tough. Keep your eyes on the prize, and don’t let any setbacks discourage you.
Have a Backup Plan: It's always good to have a Plan B. There are plenty of fantastic schools out there, and the key is to find one that suits you and encourages your growth and learning.
Remember, your past doesn't determine who you are, but how you learn and grow from it does. Your drive to make positive changes is a fantastic first step. Wishing you all the best on your journey!
Tackle Attendance Issues: Being present in class is key. If there are any reasons causing you to miss school, whether they're personal, social, or health-related, it's crucial to tackle these. A chat with a school counselor, teacher, or a trusted adult could offer you the support or resources you need.
Boost Your Academic Performance: Your main goal should be to improve your grades. Here's how you can do it:
- Develop strong study habits.
- Seek assistance in subjects you find tough, maybe through tutoring or study groups.
- Manage your time well and prioritize your tasks.
Get Involved in School Activities: Taking part in extracurricular activities can add value to your application. Schools like Choate and Exeter appreciate students who are well-rounded. Join clubs, sports, arts, or volunteer work that you enjoy.
Connect with Current Students or Alumni: If you can, try to get in touch with students or alumni from these schools. They can give you a better understanding of the application process and what the schools expect.
Work on Personal Growth: Think about why you've had past suspensions and truancy. Learning from these experiences can greatly contribute to your personal development and can be a strong point in your application essays, showing your evolution.
Prepare for Standardized Tests: If the schools require it, start getting ready for any standardized tests (like the SSAT or ISEE for boarding schools) well ahead of time.
Create a Strong Application: When it's time to apply, make sure your application essays and interviews tell your personal story, highlight your academic and extracurricular achievements, and most importantly, showcase your growth and determination.
Letters of Recommendation: Build positive relationships with teachers and mentors who can speak highly of your character and academic progress in their letters.
Stay Positive and Resilient: The road to improvement can be tough. Keep your eyes on the prize, and don’t let any setbacks discourage you.
Have a Backup Plan: It's always good to have a Plan B. There are plenty of fantastic schools out there, and the key is to find one that suits you and encourages your growth and learning.
Remember, your past doesn't determine who you are, but how you learn and grow from it does. Your drive to make positive changes is a fantastic first step. Wishing you all the best on your journey!
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